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Seasons of Music and Magic #4
Winter of the Wandering Wind: A Flying Dutchman Retelling
A cursed captain. A spectral ship. A legend returns.
Captain Casperion Helmrud is dying for the day he can finally set foot on shore. After a deal with a Fae gone wrong, Casper and his entire crew have been cursed to wander the seas of the Faerie realm, trapped in a ghostly half-existence. The curse can only be broken if he can find a woman who will be true to him until death—a seemingly insurmountable task for a man only able to walk on land for a week every seven years.
Sienna Denereid has had her fill of romance and sailors alike. Jilted at the altar by her ex-fiance, all the young nymph wants to do is live quietly with her father, tend to her family’s lighthouse in the Winter Court, and perhaps daydream about the legends of the dashing, mysterious captain known only as The Flying Dutchman. When her father’s life is saved by a dark, enigmatic sailor during a fierce Winter storm, Sienna finds herself suddenly at the center of a mystery involving a series of strange shipments, a ghostly ship, and an unexpected proposal.
With enemies old and new conspiring to keep them apart, will Casper and Sienna finally find safe harbor for both their hearts? Or will the Flying Dutchman and his crew be doomed to wander forever in the wind?
Seasons of Music and Magic is a series of four retellings of fairy tales found in classic operas and ballets, each featuring a unique cast of endearing characters, sweet romance, humor, and a happily-ever-after. The stories stand alone and can be read in any order, so experience the music and magic of Faerie at any time.
Captain Casperion Helmrud is dying for the day he can finally set foot on shore. After a deal with a Fae gone wrong, Casper and his entire crew have been cursed to wander the seas of the Faerie realm, trapped in a ghostly half-existence. The curse can only be broken if he can find a woman who will be true to him until death—a seemingly insurmountable task for a man only able to walk on land for a week every seven years.
Sienna Denereid has had her fill of romance and sailors alike. Jilted at the altar by her ex-fiance, all the young nymph wants to do is live quietly with her father, tend to her family’s lighthouse in the Winter Court, and perhaps daydream about the legends of the dashing, mysterious captain known only as The Flying Dutchman. When her father’s life is saved by a dark, enigmatic sailor during a fierce Winter storm, Sienna finds herself suddenly at the center of a mystery involving a series of strange shipments, a ghostly ship, and an unexpected proposal.
With enemies old and new conspiring to keep them apart, will Casper and Sienna finally find safe harbor for both their hearts? Or will the Flying Dutchman and his crew be doomed to wander forever in the wind?
Seasons of Music and Magic is a series of four retellings of fairy tales found in classic operas and ballets, each featuring a unique cast of endearing characters, sweet romance, humor, and a happily-ever-after. The stories stand alone and can be read in any order, so experience the music and magic of Faerie at any time.
249 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 10, 2024
About the author
Sarah Beran
32 books216 followersSarah lives in sunny southern California with her husband, two small children, and dog Pippin. An elementary music teacher by day, when she is not writing or devouring books she spends her free time running, making music, or playing make believe.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
February 26, 2025
4 stars ✨ Clean Fiction - (obscure) Fairytale Retelling
Ahh! I’m so sad this series is over now—it was such fun and I enjoyed every single one. I didn’t realize that this book is set after the events in “To Crack a Solider”, so a heads up for those who want to read this in a proper order.
Like all the prior books in the series, I wasn’t familiar with the original tale of this book either, but went in blindly to just enjoy the story—which I really did.
Our male lead, Casper, is rumored to be a ghost. Let me repeat that. Casper is rumored to be a ghost. Do you get it?? 🤭 Knowing how the author loves puns, I imagine this wasn’t a coincidence and I love it. 😂 He was definitely a grump, but also struggling with a lot of guilt and it was great to see Sienna and his relationship.
I would truly read many more books set in this realm/world, just as a note, because it’s been very unique and I’ve enjoyed seeing and learning about all the different types of fae! I feel like the author could do another series with the same spring, summer, fall, and winter courts and have new characters introduced—while reseeing prior characters, of course. 😉
Main Content-
Set in the Faerie realm & there are many different types of fae in this world (brownies, dryads, gnomes, dwarves, fauns, nymph, sirens, phoenixes, pixies, water sprites, and also wizards that are like the caretakers of the world; There are also creatures like basilisks, centaurs, chimera, dragons, griffins, and manticores, but none are seen in this book); Sienna is a naiad who is unable to use magic after an accident injured her voice; All fae can learn to harness Natural magic through music, but elves are able to use their ability to use Creative magic and create new things; Because of this, some elves believe they are more important than the “lesser fae” or those with mixed bloodlines and are prejudice and rude towards others (seen on page); Music compositions in the Faerie realm are closely monitored as ones played in the human realm have dissonance that could result in dangerous magic in the Faerie realm if played.
Casper was cursed by a fae many years prior to wander the faerie realm after being tricked; The curse can be broken if Casper finds a woman to love him in seven days and she’s willing to wait until she dies for him to come back (which he doesn’t want to put someone through that pain); Casper and his crew are partially transparent like a ghost due to the curse & a wizard’s theory is that it’s because they are halfway between the human realm and the Faerie realm; Casper and his crew guard a place where the barrier to the human realm is weaker (and it’s said that humans or fae can enter if there are the right conditions on both sides); Waypoints are gates that can take you to another place in the Faerie realm, if you know the song to sing to get there; Sirens can cause storms or make someone throw themself into the water & one threatens Casper with harm (Sienna’s best friend also wishes she could make a guy throw himself into the sea for hurting Sienna); Magic is seen and used by singing (seen on-page).
A few talks about the Almighty; Prayers to the Almighty & Thanking Him; Mentions of the Almighty, praying, & praying; Many mentions of ghosts, rumors of ghosts, & Casper and his crew being partially transparent like a ghost because of the curse; Mentions of magic & using it (for both good and bad); A couple mentions of miracles.
Fictional word phrases/curses like “by the realms”, “what in the realms”, and “why in the realms” are used (some as exclamations); A few curses are said, but not written out (by Casper); Eye rolling & Sarcasm.
Being knocked unconscious, Pain, Injuries, A dislocated shoulder, & Near death events (almost drowning, falling off a cliff, and a small explosion/fire) (up to a handful of sentences each); Attempted murder/assassination attempts.
Casper wants to beat someone to a pulp; Casper feels guilt for trapping his crew with him in the fae realm; Sienna has a few parts of being self-deprecating because of a prior event that greatly upset her (an elf’s comments when he broke their engagement).
*Spoilers* *Major Spoilers* .
Many mentions of smugglers, a smuggler ring, thieves/criminals, stealing, & stolen items; Mentions of near drownings; Mentions of pain, injuries, & attempted murders/“accidents”; Mentions of guilt, grief, & homesickness; Mentions of rumors & gossip; A few mentions of a fire/explosion; A few mentions of lies & lying; A couple mentions of a possibly assumed suicide; A couple mentions of a potential dead body; A mention of blackmail.
Some Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, Warmth (including being in someone’s lap), Flutters, Nearness, Smelling, & Noticing (up to a few sentences); Blushes & Winks.
Casper feels awkward after saying he will help Sienna get to her bed when she’s injured and clarifies what he meant; Casper also feels awkward unbuttoning Sienna’s jacket and avoids looking into her face (helping her because of an injury).
1 wrist kiss,
1 cheek kiss,
1 almost kiss (a couple sentences),
2 kisses with no details,
1 kiss lasting a few sentences.
A few mentions of kisses; A few mentions of broken hearts & heartbreak; A couple mentions of mooning over someone; A mention of reputations; A mention of wooing someone; A mention of unwanted attention; A mention of an elf believing he’s the Almighty’s gift to women.
Ahh! I’m so sad this series is over now—it was such fun and I enjoyed every single one. I didn’t realize that this book is set after the events in “To Crack a Solider”, so a heads up for those who want to read this in a proper order.
Like all the prior books in the series, I wasn’t familiar with the original tale of this book either, but went in blindly to just enjoy the story—which I really did.
Our male lead, Casper, is rumored to be a ghost. Let me repeat that. Casper is rumored to be a ghost. Do you get it?? 🤭 Knowing how the author loves puns, I imagine this wasn’t a coincidence and I love it. 😂 He was definitely a grump, but also struggling with a lot of guilt and it was great to see Sienna and his relationship.
I would truly read many more books set in this realm/world, just as a note, because it’s been very unique and I’ve enjoyed seeing and learning about all the different types of fae! I feel like the author could do another series with the same spring, summer, fall, and winter courts and have new characters introduced—while reseeing prior characters, of course. 😉
Main Content-
Set in the Faerie realm & there are many different types of fae in this world (brownies, dryads, gnomes, dwarves, fauns, nymph, sirens, phoenixes, pixies, water sprites, and also wizards that are like the caretakers of the world; There are also creatures like basilisks, centaurs, chimera, dragons, griffins, and manticores, but none are seen in this book); Sienna is a naiad who is unable to use magic after an accident injured her voice; All fae can learn to harness Natural magic through music, but elves are able to use their ability to use Creative magic and create new things; Because of this, some elves believe they are more important than the “lesser fae” or those with mixed bloodlines and are prejudice and rude towards others (seen on page); Music compositions in the Faerie realm are closely monitored as ones played in the human realm have dissonance that could result in dangerous magic in the Faerie realm if played.
Casper was cursed by a fae many years prior to wander the faerie realm after being tricked; The curse can be broken if Casper finds a woman to love him in seven days and she’s willing to wait until she dies for him to come back (which he doesn’t want to put someone through that pain); Casper and his crew are partially transparent like a ghost due to the curse & a wizard’s theory is that it’s because they are halfway between the human realm and the Faerie realm; Casper and his crew guard a place where the barrier to the human realm is weaker (and it’s said that humans or fae can enter if there are the right conditions on both sides); Waypoints are gates that can take you to another place in the Faerie realm, if you know the song to sing to get there; Sirens can cause storms or make someone throw themself into the water & one threatens Casper with harm (Sienna’s best friend also wishes she could make a guy throw himself into the sea for hurting Sienna); Magic is seen and used by singing (seen on-page).
A few talks about the Almighty; Prayers to the Almighty & Thanking Him; Mentions of the Almighty, praying, & praying; Many mentions of ghosts, rumors of ghosts, & Casper and his crew being partially transparent like a ghost because of the curse; Mentions of magic & using it (for both good and bad); A couple mentions of miracles.
Fictional word phrases/curses like “by the realms”, “what in the realms”, and “why in the realms” are used (some as exclamations); A few curses are said, but not written out (by Casper); Eye rolling & Sarcasm.
Being knocked unconscious, Pain, Injuries, A dislocated shoulder, & Near death events (almost drowning, falling off a cliff, and a small explosion/fire) (up to a handful of sentences each); Attempted murder/assassination attempts.
Casper wants to beat someone to a pulp; Casper feels guilt for trapping his crew with him in the fae realm; Sienna has a few parts of being self-deprecating because of a prior event that greatly upset her (an elf’s comments when he broke their engagement).
*Spoilers* *Major Spoilers* .
Many mentions of smugglers, a smuggler ring, thieves/criminals, stealing, & stolen items; Mentions of near drownings; Mentions of pain, injuries, & attempted murders/“accidents”; Mentions of guilt, grief, & homesickness; Mentions of rumors & gossip; A few mentions of a fire/explosion; A few mentions of lies & lying; A couple mentions of a possibly assumed suicide; A couple mentions of a potential dead body; A mention of blackmail.
Some Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, Warmth (including being in someone’s lap), Flutters, Nearness, Smelling, & Noticing (up to a few sentences); Blushes & Winks.
Casper feels awkward after saying he will help Sienna get to her bed when she’s injured and clarifies what he meant; Casper also feels awkward unbuttoning Sienna’s jacket and avoids looking into her face (helping her because of an injury).
1 wrist kiss,
1 cheek kiss,
1 almost kiss (a couple sentences),
2 kisses with no details,
1 kiss lasting a few sentences.
A few mentions of kisses; A few mentions of broken hearts & heartbreak; A couple mentions of mooning over someone; A mention of reputations; A mention of wooing someone; A mention of unwanted attention; A mention of an elf believing he’s the Almighty’s gift to women.
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June 1, 2026Full review and rating to come!
August 6, 2025
It's official: Casper is one of my favorite Beran heroes.
Winter of the Wandering Wind is the first retelling I've read of The Flying Dutchman. It contains the usual Beran elements, with romance, humor, a bit of danger, and a fantastic twist on the original. I loved the characters, except for those that weren't lovable. I mean, no one could ever like Ick. I mean, Erik. Jem was a riot, and I have a feeling that if he wrote a book of Mormor's sayings, it'd be a bestseller.
Sienna was so sweet and she needs a hug. Casper also need a hug, what with being cursed and all that for numerous decades. They're adorable. I think it'd be fun for Devri to have a short little story of her own, since she was such a fun secondary character in this book. (Please? Even if it's as short as Faye's story?)
While I mentioned that this book contains danger, those who may be a bit squeamish need not worry. Beran keeps us on the edge of our seat without adding any unnecessary, gruesome, or macabre details. The plot was well fleshed out, the character arcs on point, and the incorporation of magic pure genius. You don't need to be well-acquainted with the original tale in order to enjoy this retelling. I had only heard about it in passing before reading Winter of the Wandering Wind, and Beran wrote this in such a way that you can pick up on what the original is about without feeling lost or confused.
As always, I recommend this book for those who enjoy clean and wholesome fairy tale retellings with adorable MCs, detestable villains, and hilarious sidekicks.
Winter of the Wandering Wind is the first retelling I've read of The Flying Dutchman. It contains the usual Beran elements, with romance, humor, a bit of danger, and a fantastic twist on the original. I loved the characters, except for those that weren't lovable. I mean, no one could ever like Ick. I mean, Erik. Jem was a riot, and I have a feeling that if he wrote a book of Mormor's sayings, it'd be a bestseller.
Sienna was so sweet and she needs a hug. Casper also need a hug, what with being cursed and all that for numerous decades. They're adorable. I think it'd be fun for Devri to have a short little story of her own, since she was such a fun secondary character in this book. (Please? Even if it's as short as Faye's story?)
While I mentioned that this book contains danger, those who may be a bit squeamish need not worry. Beran keeps us on the edge of our seat without adding any unnecessary, gruesome, or macabre details. The plot was well fleshed out, the character arcs on point, and the incorporation of magic pure genius. You don't need to be well-acquainted with the original tale in order to enjoy this retelling. I had only heard about it in passing before reading Winter of the Wandering Wind, and Beran wrote this in such a way that you can pick up on what the original is about without feeling lost or confused.
As always, I recommend this book for those who enjoy clean and wholesome fairy tale retellings with adorable MCs, detestable villains, and hilarious sidekicks.
May 12, 2024
Sarah Beran Books NEVER Disappoint!!!
I didn’t even read the blurb before I binge read this book in one sitting. I always know that a Sarah Beran book will offer a swoony romance, some intrigue and mystery, and a healthy dose of jokes and puns, and I wasn’t disappointed.
Jem’s constant references to his dear old Mormor had me rolling, and I loved Casper’s broody, prickly self just as much as I loved Sienna’s spitfire attitude.
I loooved the romance here, the cursed ghost sailors (it made me lol that the captains name was Casper for a ship of ghost guys) and I loved hating Erik.
This is a perfect quick read for anyone who wants some Pirates of the Caribbean vibes!!!
I didn’t even read the blurb before I binge read this book in one sitting. I always know that a Sarah Beran book will offer a swoony romance, some intrigue and mystery, and a healthy dose of jokes and puns, and I wasn’t disappointed.
Jem’s constant references to his dear old Mormor had me rolling, and I loved Casper’s broody, prickly self just as much as I loved Sienna’s spitfire attitude.
I loooved the romance here, the cursed ghost sailors (it made me lol that the captains name was Casper for a ship of ghost guys) and I loved hating Erik.
This is a perfect quick read for anyone who wants some Pirates of the Caribbean vibes!!!
January 29, 2026
✨️🌌 [...] Jem added enthusiastically, "maybe we'll be able to help. As my dear old Mormor used to say, 'Many hands make light work, and many heads make better plans...as long as one mouth is talking at a time."
Casper raised his brows. "I think that was her way of telling you to stop talking and get back to work."
Jem held a hand to his heart. "You insinuation wounds me, Casp. I am a very hard worker."
✨️🌌 "That goes without saying. She's far better company than you, at least."
"Ouch! Tell me how you really feel."
"I did."
"Is this because I said you should smile more? Because I'll have you know, my jokes are funny."
"As your dear old Mormor used to say, 'Laughter echoes loudest in the head of a fool.' "
Jem threw a hand to his chest dramatically. "How dare you use dear Mormor against me!"
Casper raised his brows. "I think that was her way of telling you to stop talking and get back to work."
Jem held a hand to his heart. "You insinuation wounds me, Casp. I am a very hard worker."
✨️🌌 "That goes without saying. She's far better company than you, at least."
"Ouch! Tell me how you really feel."
"I did."
"Is this because I said you should smile more? Because I'll have you know, my jokes are funny."
"As your dear old Mormor used to say, 'Laughter echoes loudest in the head of a fool.' "
Jem threw a hand to his chest dramatically. "How dare you use dear Mormor against me!"
February 26, 2025
I generally liked this story. The characters and plot were interesting, even though the villain was a bit on the nose and everything worked out rather simply. I wish we got to see a bit more of Casper's background. It felt like there was more story to tell. Also, based on how everything wrapped up, I would have preferred a bit different of an ending.
Casper was a brooding hero. He felt different from the other heroes in the series, as he should, though his knowledge of Faerie and magic seemed a bit inconsistent.
Sienna was a fine character. She had a decent backbone, sense of humor, and head on her shoulders. The disconnect from singing was also an interesting concept, though I wish the vocal impact was more apparent in her speech patterns. One of the things that bugged me the most about her wasn't actually a character issue, but the fact that she had so many nicknames. It was just annoying (Senta, Enna, Si).
The romance was fairly slow, since there was resistance with the week timeline. Both were generally honest aside from the whole cursed ghost thing, lol. I liked that Sienna, while lighter than Casper, wasn't super bubbly. She felt fairly grounded, while still giving him hope. He in turn felt very steady, which was interesting since he was so tied to the sea. Both characters felt older/more mature than most of the other leads in the series .
My biggest gripe was once again with the climax and ending explanation.
Jem was a gem of a side character.
I would have preferred Celesta not be tied to Sienna beyond being the current Winter Queen. I didn't finish Celesta's book, so I don't know if Sienna appeared/was mentioned in it, but I haven't liked the character in any appearance. She and Dross could have been investigating the Dutchman, smugglers, or breach without any other pre-existing relationships involved.
Casper was a brooding hero. He felt different from the other heroes in the series, as he should, though his knowledge of Faerie and magic seemed a bit inconsistent.
Sienna was a fine character. She had a decent backbone, sense of humor, and head on her shoulders. The disconnect from singing was also an interesting concept, though I wish the vocal impact was more apparent in her speech patterns. One of the things that bugged me the most about her wasn't actually a character issue, but the fact that she had so many nicknames. It was just annoying (Senta, Enna, Si).
The romance was fairly slow, since there was resistance with the week timeline. Both were generally honest aside from the whole cursed ghost thing, lol. I liked that Sienna, while lighter than Casper, wasn't super bubbly. She felt fairly grounded, while still giving him hope. He in turn felt very steady, which was interesting since he was so tied to the sea. Both characters felt older/more mature than most of the other leads in the series .
My biggest gripe was once again with the climax and ending explanation.
Jem was a gem of a side character.
I would have preferred Celesta not be tied to Sienna beyond being the current Winter Queen. I didn't finish Celesta's book, so I don't know if Sienna appeared/was mentioned in it, but I haven't liked the character in any appearance. She and Dross could have been investigating the Dutchman, smugglers, or breach without any other pre-existing relationships involved.
May 10, 2024
Magically and musically magnificent, Winter of the Wandering Wind, by Sarah Beran, deserves an ocean full of accolades for its outstanding wit, humour and charm! I was privileged to read this book early and this review contains my honest thoughts.
Winter of the Wandering Wind is the 4th in the Seasons of Music and Magic series and the perfect culmination to the stories set in that world. It's a retelling of The Flying Dutchman so enchantingly clever and unique that you will want to pick up this book and read it over and over again!
Captain Helmrud is deliciously grumpy, his first mate Jem is a gem who spouts witty sayings from his Mormor and eavesdrops unashamedly on private conversations, sprinkling wit and humour onto every page he steps on. The crew full of Johns on the ship had me laughing out loud and Sienna is a treasure like no other: frank, honest, faithful and courageous, this little burst of sunshine will warm your hearts and have you rooting for her and Casper's weeklong engagement to turn into forever.
No good story is complete without a villain and Erik the evil elf fills the role admirably! Erik is one character you will love to hate, while Sienna's father - Daland, is the father we'd all love to have: protective, sweet, funny and loving! I was also delighted to meet Celesta the ballerina (now the queen) and Drosselmayer again, having fallen in love with both in stories past.
All in all, this book ticks all the boxes! It has the perfect mix of tropes (including grumpy / sunshine and engagement of convenience), adventure, wit, mystery and drama with plenty of puns thrown into the mix.
I have officially decided that it is quite literally impossible for Sarah to write anything less than perfection (despite her protestations to the contrary) and out of all the books I've read by this comedic mastermind this one ranks up there among the best.
Although Seasons of Music and Magic is officially only four books, I would recommend reading To Crack a Soldier (part of the Shattered Tales collaboration) as book two of this series. Not only is it set in the same world, but Celesta features a lot in these four books and knowing her background makes reading them an even more epically enjoyable experience!
Every time a series comes to an end it is a bittersweet thing. Of course we can reread the books and glean maximum enjoyment from them every time, but knowing there will be no more books set in that world is indeed something that will make every reader sad! However, thankfully for us, Sarah Beran seems to churn out books the way Rumpelstiltskin weaves straw into gold with just the same amount of magic glistening off their pages and I for one, cannot wait for her next masterpiece!
Winter of the Wandering Wind is the 4th in the Seasons of Music and Magic series and the perfect culmination to the stories set in that world. It's a retelling of The Flying Dutchman so enchantingly clever and unique that you will want to pick up this book and read it over and over again!
Captain Helmrud is deliciously grumpy, his first mate Jem is a gem who spouts witty sayings from his Mormor and eavesdrops unashamedly on private conversations, sprinkling wit and humour onto every page he steps on. The crew full of Johns on the ship had me laughing out loud and Sienna is a treasure like no other: frank, honest, faithful and courageous, this little burst of sunshine will warm your hearts and have you rooting for her and Casper's weeklong engagement to turn into forever.
No good story is complete without a villain and Erik the evil elf fills the role admirably! Erik is one character you will love to hate, while Sienna's father - Daland, is the father we'd all love to have: protective, sweet, funny and loving! I was also delighted to meet Celesta the ballerina (now the queen) and Drosselmayer again, having fallen in love with both in stories past.
All in all, this book ticks all the boxes! It has the perfect mix of tropes (including grumpy / sunshine and engagement of convenience), adventure, wit, mystery and drama with plenty of puns thrown into the mix.
I have officially decided that it is quite literally impossible for Sarah to write anything less than perfection (despite her protestations to the contrary) and out of all the books I've read by this comedic mastermind this one ranks up there among the best.
Although Seasons of Music and Magic is officially only four books, I would recommend reading To Crack a Soldier (part of the Shattered Tales collaboration) as book two of this series. Not only is it set in the same world, but Celesta features a lot in these four books and knowing her background makes reading them an even more epically enjoyable experience!
Every time a series comes to an end it is a bittersweet thing. Of course we can reread the books and glean maximum enjoyment from them every time, but knowing there will be no more books set in that world is indeed something that will make every reader sad! However, thankfully for us, Sarah Beran seems to churn out books the way Rumpelstiltskin weaves straw into gold with just the same amount of magic glistening off their pages and I for one, cannot wait for her next masterpiece!
March 4, 2026
Content:
Profanity: None.
Violence: High mild. There are a few near-death and perilous moments in this. Falling from a cliff, being tied up, attempts to drown others. There is minor blood depicted from being bound at struggling against ropes. There is a dislocated limb that is set in this too.
Sexual: Mild. Holding in a protective way, hand-holding, some swoony not spicy kissing.
Content Warning: Deals with prejudice between Elves and other races of fae.
More a 4.5 than 4, so my rating may go up as I re-read this one (because I know I will).
I've been hoarding this last book in the series because I didn't want it to be over. I do that with series I really enjoy (despite the fact I didn't gel well with the previous book).
Casperian, AKA Casper, is a human, and a cursed Captain of a ghost ship doomed to wander the fae winter seas. His only chance to save himself and his whole crew from the nightmare life they've been living is by finding a woman who will be faithful to him until her death. Which is kinda complicated when Casper can only set foot on land for a week every seven years. The rest of the time he's more ghost than man (which made his name so snort-worthy. Something I expect of Sarah Beran and heartily approve!)
Enter Sienna. She's a naiad of the Winter court, and after a horrible accident, she can't use her magic, the one thing that apparently her fiancé approved about her, as he broke their engagement, leaving her lonely and hurt. Living with her father at the lighthouse they both care for, she is relieved when after a fishing expedition her father is saved from a horrible storm by an unknown Captain.
This is where the story starts and becomes super sweet. In order to make ends meet, Sienna's father needs to make money. He can only do that by fishing, but he just lost his boat. So, in exchange for the Captain (yeah, it's Casper) protecting and helping Sienna care for the lighthouse, (and maybe breaking a centuries long curse) Casper lends Sienna's father his ship.
What follows is a sweet tale of the improbable becoming reality for both Casper and Sienna. They quickly come to know each other through bizarre mysteries of smuggled goods, death threats, and living in the same space for a week.
Watching Sienna's realizations about her ex-fiancé as she contemplates this near-stranger and his goodness and heart...was well, heartwarming. I enjoyed how Sienna pulled Casper out of his serious sober-minded nature, and how Casper showed Sienna what a healthy relationship looked like.
Such a sweet story, and even though the romance was quick, the fact that they both had misgivings and openly talked about it, made it actually more believable to me. They knew that they chose each other and that it was only the beginning love, but no less real for that.
Brava! I look forward to the audio now. On to other books by the author now. I'm trying not to hoard them as long.
AUDIOBOOK
Narrated by Tawnya Rollingson, this was so fun to re-read as an audio. I love Casper the friendly ghost pirate, and Sienna the naiad's story. Jem's voice reminded me a bit of how she narrated Avi in the previous books in the series, but not so much as to make me confused. I just love the story though. Great audio, will listen to it over and over, guaranteed.
Profanity: None.
Violence: High mild. There are a few near-death and perilous moments in this. Falling from a cliff, being tied up, attempts to drown others. There is minor blood depicted from being bound at struggling against ropes. There is a dislocated limb that is set in this too.
Sexual: Mild. Holding in a protective way, hand-holding, some swoony not spicy kissing.
Content Warning: Deals with prejudice between Elves and other races of fae.
More a 4.5 than 4, so my rating may go up as I re-read this one (because I know I will).
I've been hoarding this last book in the series because I didn't want it to be over. I do that with series I really enjoy (despite the fact I didn't gel well with the previous book).
Casperian, AKA Casper, is a human, and a cursed Captain of a ghost ship doomed to wander the fae winter seas. His only chance to save himself and his whole crew from the nightmare life they've been living is by finding a woman who will be faithful to him until her death. Which is kinda complicated when Casper can only set foot on land for a week every seven years. The rest of the time he's more ghost than man (which made his name so snort-worthy. Something I expect of Sarah Beran and heartily approve!)
Enter Sienna. She's a naiad of the Winter court, and after a horrible accident, she can't use her magic, the one thing that apparently her fiancé approved about her, as he broke their engagement, leaving her lonely and hurt. Living with her father at the lighthouse they both care for, she is relieved when after a fishing expedition her father is saved from a horrible storm by an unknown Captain.
This is where the story starts and becomes super sweet. In order to make ends meet, Sienna's father needs to make money. He can only do that by fishing, but he just lost his boat. So, in exchange for the Captain (yeah, it's Casper) protecting and helping Sienna care for the lighthouse, (and maybe breaking a centuries long curse) Casper lends Sienna's father his ship.
What follows is a sweet tale of the improbable becoming reality for both Casper and Sienna. They quickly come to know each other through bizarre mysteries of smuggled goods, death threats, and living in the same space for a week.
Watching Sienna's realizations about her ex-fiancé as she contemplates this near-stranger and his goodness and heart...was well, heartwarming. I enjoyed how Sienna pulled Casper out of his serious sober-minded nature, and how Casper showed Sienna what a healthy relationship looked like.
Such a sweet story, and even though the romance was quick, the fact that they both had misgivings and openly talked about it, made it actually more believable to me. They knew that they chose each other and that it was only the beginning love, but no less real for that.
Brava! I look forward to the audio now. On to other books by the author now. I'm trying not to hoard them as long.
AUDIOBOOK
Narrated by Tawnya Rollingson, this was so fun to re-read as an audio. I love Casper the friendly ghost pirate, and Sienna the naiad's story. Jem's voice reminded me a bit of how she narrated Avi in the previous books in the series, but not so much as to make me confused. I just love the story though. Great audio, will listen to it over and over, guaranteed.
May 14, 2024
Winter of the Wandering Wind is the fourth and final book in the Seasons of Music and Magic series. Every time I read a book in this world I think it’s my new favourite. (To Crack a Soldier is also in this one, though as a stand-alone and not part of this series.) They have all been so good and this one is no exception.
Full of Sarah’s signature humor, there are not as many puns as in some books. While I would normally be saddened by this fact, I’m not because we have instead the words of Mormor. The plot was interesting, but these quotes made the book for me. I regret not highlighting them all for easy access in the future whenever I need a laugh…or some wise words of wisdom to memorize…or both? These were spouted frequently by the best side character ever, Jem. He balances our dark and brooding hero perfectly. This entire book just gave me all of the happy feels and I look forward to revisiting it in the future.
I’ll leave you with what might me my favourite Mormor quote: “Vigilant work makes true love bloom…but vigilante work will also suffice.”
Romance: squeaky clean
Violence: attempted murder, but it didn’t feel like a tension-filled book to me and I’d rate it a solid PG if it were a movie.
Full of Sarah’s signature humor, there are not as many puns as in some books. While I would normally be saddened by this fact, I’m not because we have instead the words of Mormor. The plot was interesting, but these quotes made the book for me. I regret not highlighting them all for easy access in the future whenever I need a laugh…or some wise words of wisdom to memorize…or both? These were spouted frequently by the best side character ever, Jem. He balances our dark and brooding hero perfectly. This entire book just gave me all of the happy feels and I look forward to revisiting it in the future.
I’ll leave you with what might me my favourite Mormor quote: “Vigilant work makes true love bloom…but vigilante work will also suffice.”
Romance: squeaky clean
Violence: attempted murder, but it didn’t feel like a tension-filled book to me and I’d rate it a solid PG if it were a movie.
May 14, 2024
Excellent!
This set of four opera retellings has been so much fun to read! With magic created by music, fantastic main characters, quips and humorous characters on the side to keep things joyful, they are must reads for those who like happily ever after with magic thrown in!
This set of four opera retellings has been so much fun to read! With magic created by music, fantastic main characters, quips and humorous characters on the side to keep things joyful, they are must reads for those who like happily ever after with magic thrown in!
May 19, 2024
Mystery and Enchantment
I’m not too familiar with the story of the Flying Dutchman, but I loved this retelling. Curses, smuggling, music, magic, attempted murder, and engagements. This was a lovely end to the series.
I’m not too familiar with the story of the Flying Dutchman, but I loved this retelling. Curses, smuggling, music, magic, attempted murder, and engagements. This was a lovely end to the series.
October 15, 2024
The Flying Dutchman lands
The characters are well developed and the plot is lively. The interplay between elves and other Faye is is an interesting study in prejudice and how it can be overcome. The flying Dutchman has a heart a gold that has been covered in guilt and loneliness.
The characters are well developed and the plot is lively. The interplay between elves and other Faye is is an interesting study in prejudice and how it can be overcome. The flying Dutchman has a heart a gold that has been covered in guilt and loneliness.
May 17, 2024
A musical masterpiece
Beran's romances always leave me satisfied. Casper and Sienna's stoey was so sweet and I can't wait to read more from the author!
Beran's romances always leave me satisfied. Casper and Sienna's stoey was so sweet and I can't wait to read more from the author!
May 18, 2024
Another good book!
I've enjoyed the journeys through the Fae with Sarah. Her characters are always interesting and it is fun to get to know them through the series!
I've enjoyed the journeys through the Fae with Sarah. Her characters are always interesting and it is fun to get to know them through the series!
May 26, 2024
I enjoyed reading this wonderful book! This book has wonderful characters and a wonderful plot! I really loved reading all of the books in this really wonderful series!
June 3, 2024
Good story!
I enjoyed reading this Flying Dutchman retelling! This whole series is clean and enjoyable, and I’m glad I read these books!
I enjoyed reading this Flying Dutchman retelling! This whole series is clean and enjoyable, and I’m glad I read these books!
June 9, 2024
I think this one was my favorite of the series! Very well done, I devoured it in two days.
January 25, 2026
Good read
A captain cursed to sail the seas with only one week on land every 7 years and a lass with no magic and a broken heart.
A captain cursed to sail the seas with only one week on land every 7 years and a lass with no magic and a broken heart.
March 19, 2025
Honestly loved this 🩵 Great retelling of the Opera, and I loved that the ending was still true to it despite also being a happy ending :) Great tie-ins to To Crack a Soldier as well—though I would recommend reading that one BEFORE this one! Then you’ll have all the backstory on Celesta, Drosselmeyer, and the midwinter festival 👍🏼 Not essential to this story, but better timeline-wise :)
August 26, 2024
This book was absolutely amazing! I loved Casper and Sienna's relationship and all of Jem's Mormor's sayings. The book was incredibly funny and I had to keep turning the page. The plot was greatly well-thought out and is possibly Sarah Beran's best book in this series. Sarah Beran is an incredible author with a great sense of humour and able to write a wonderful book. I enjoyed seeing Drosselmeyer and Celeste and there were so many great themes woven into this novel. Casper had to learn to overcome his guilt and condemnation and Sienna had to overcome her feelings of unworthiness that Erik left behind. Such an incredibly well-written book.
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