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The Tides of Our Sins

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Emilia Davenport is ready to die.

She always knew her time would come sooner rather than later, and now, as she stands over the edge of the cliff on the impending one-year anniversary of her twin daughters’ disappearance, she’s finally ready to bring this idea to fruition.

After a night of celebration quickly turned tragic at her family’s vineyard last summer, Emilia’s worst nightmare came true when her sixteen-year-old daughters didn’t come home. The only thing more grim was watching it destroy her husband and five-year-old son in equal measure.

Caught in a chokehold between hope and grief, Emilia listens to the intrusive thoughts in her head, telling her to end it all. But as she hovers at the precipice of death, her phone rings, and she has no idea it’s the call she’s been waiting on for eleven months.

Someone needs to reach her before it’s too late.

94 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 2, 2024

52 people are currently reading
613 people want to read

About the author

Amy Tackett

8 books181 followers
Amy is a thriller author who was born in the heart of Appalachia before later relocating to the Midwest. With a Bachelor’s degree in journalism and a professional background in content marketing, she has a passion for storytelling. When Amy’s not writing, you can find her playing with her wild (lovable) children, hiding her book purchases from her husband, or rambling way too much on her Instagram stories. You can connect with her here: @authoramytackett.

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5 stars
169 (41%)
4 stars
130 (31%)
3 stars
70 (17%)
2 stars
23 (5%)
1 star
15 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
Profile Image for Nurse Jackie.
276 reviews13 followers
September 4, 2024
The pain this story caused me can never fully be described.

Emilia had a picturesque life, great husband, twin teenage daughters, a five year old son, and an amazing vineyard in Cape Cod. While trying to bring the vineyard back to life, the family presents the town with a ceremonious party with food, wine, atmosphere, and the like. But it’s the next morning and her beautiful daughters are missing. With no leads and no witnesses, the police have nothing to go on. Where are they? How can she go on without them?

Then the rage and horror hits you while you’re simultaneously stunned and breathless. The amount of sheer terror this novella brought out of me cannot be accurately expressed. The suspense that builds to the very last page, every drop. This is twisted and disturbing and raw and so well done.
Profile Image for Hayley.
13 reviews
November 21, 2025
When I finished this ARC, I sent this message to the author right away, "I just finished The Tides of Our Sins and holy sh*t!!! Just speechless right now. Not sure how I am going to sleep and it is almost midnight."

I love thrillers but they hardly ever cause my jaw to drop especially repeatedly or lose any sleep over. I didn't sleep well last night. Thanks Amy. 😆 I thought I had figured out the ending and sort of did BUT bam the real ending came out to smack my mind and cause my jaw actually to drop while my eyes filled with tears.

If you love thrillers, grab this book. It is a quick read and worth it. It comes out 8-2-24 but you can pre-order it now.
Profile Image for Bookaholic__Reviews.
1,149 reviews151 followers
August 2, 2024
Omg. EXCUSE ME BUT WHAT?!

This story had my heart in a chokehold. I'm honestly not okay right now.

It's been a while since I could say I sat and read a book straight through LITERALLY devouring its pages. But that's exactly what I did with The Tides of Our Sins. Granted, this is a novella and not very long, but I simply had to see it all the way through to the end.

Full review coming soon.
Profile Image for Danielle Morris.
Author 7 books99 followers
May 9, 2024
Amy Tackett strikes my heart again in this incredibly twisted, and harrowing novella that will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout every chapter.
This novella follows Emilia, a mother stuck living a mother’s worst nightmare. When her two daughters go missing, she’ll stop at nothing to find them and bring them home. But when the leads dry up, and the case goes cold, Emilia faces a new challenge: deciding whether or not she wants to continue to live with the guilt for failing her children.
Tackett takes us on a journey of grief, failure, and acceptance. Told in dual POV and a dual timeline, The Tides of Our Sins keeps the reader in suspense until the very last page.
Profile Image for David Washburn.
Author 8 books132 followers
August 6, 2024
What a rough journey for Emelia and her husband Nick as they navigate their lives with their teen daughters.

This story is an incredible tale of taking steps through a parent’s worst nightmare where everyone plays a different role in how they try to move forward. With their twins going missing and a family member being found dead two parents are left behind with their five year old son to pretend they’re strong for his sake.

When the guilt weighs heavier each day for Emilia she finds herself standing at the edge, looking down at the waves as the reader is a quiet spectator to her fragile psyche and private moments with God.

Tackett weaves an incredible story that tiptoes into the light before falling into the dark. An emotional ride with a sucker punch waiting before it ends.

All of my favorite thrillers involve families forced to make impossible choices and manage the fallouts from those choices and this story is no different.

At 94 pages, and this glowing review *wink* there is no excuse to not check this out.
Profile Image for Gales Tales70.
291 reviews13 followers
August 2, 2024
Twisted, disturbing and sadly, a true reflection of real life crimes. Heartbreaking, beautiful devastation. I read in one sitting as short Novella. Amy’s writing is simple, clever yet enthralling.

The ending was unexpected but brought everything together. Very well done!!

I was lucky to be chosen as an ARC reader and so grateful. Will sure look out for other works by Amy 🖤
Profile Image for Gnome Patronus.
400 reviews22 followers
August 4, 2024
How do you explain the utter and total shock when the last 10% of the book has you staring unfocused, in shock and speechless. When you hear the “this is Audible” you slowly shake your head and realize your cheeks are damp from tears that you didn’t realize were falling. Cuz those are the words I need for this review!

This story starts and continues to add layers and layers and then in one moment it is stripped all away. I already know this story will cling to me, and I am sure when I see lavender, or my daughters curls lift in the wind when we are together, this story will be in the back of my mind.

Jessica did a wonderful job with the narration. She put a voice to the story and it felt so natural, like it was the narrators story. It never felt acted, just like we were privy to moments in the moment.
Profile Image for Lilimomlovesbooks.
253 reviews4 followers
July 27, 2024
Holy guacamole, I did not expect where this story went!

The book in itself is a short novella but that doesn’t take from the impact and emotions and overall plot at all. I thoroughly enjoyed the wild journey and being taken through the wringer.

This is my first book by Amy Tackett and I'm very glad it was recommended to me! CW: There are some serious and possibly triggering topics and scenes in this book, so proceed with that in mind.
Profile Image for Maia.
84 reviews
March 4, 2025
Edit: changing my rating from 4 to 5 stars because this novella is still on my mind for days!!

------
Wtffffff... :(

I felt like throwing up during the last 10%-15% of this book. It's disturbing enough to learn what happened to the twins. But I was horrified to learn HOW it all happened. A tragic and traumatic read for me. 3
Profile Image for Rebecca Garner.
Author 3 books32 followers
August 4, 2024
Beautifully written and so haunting. I could not stop listening to this one. (The audiobook narrator is fantastic!)
Profile Image for Krys Marino.
Author 5 books8 followers
September 18, 2024
Ahh Amy! She has moved up to the top of my list of favorite indie authors, I must say. This is the third book of hers I’ve read, and without a doubt, she’s a natural-born storyteller. She has a way of roping you tightly into her stories from the very beginning before letting you fall to your demise (pun-intended), and this novella did just that.

First off, she really brings Fiore Vineyards to life with her imagery and imagination. With every word, I could feel in my bones Emilia’s race against time and the agony she felt over her daughters going missing nearly a year ago.

By the end, I was truly surprised by the real events that had unfolded that night, and Amy did a fantastic job with the dual POV and timeline, specifically toward the end with Nick’s POV added.

Make sure to pay attention to the trigger warnings with this one before reading!

As always, thank you for keeping me at the edge of my seat and delivering yet another must-read thrilling page-turner!
Profile Image for Ashli Ferguson.
Author 13 books39 followers
April 1, 2025
I didn't realize what this was about and WOAH! that last chapter - wow. Definitely recommend.
Profile Image for Renko Dekker.
383 reviews7 followers
July 24, 2024
I received a copy of this novella from the author herself. I saw it and the premise sounded interesting so I requested it. Luckily for me, I got it!

We follow Emilia, who is ready to die. She can't cope with the intrusive thoughts telling her to jump off the cliffs months after her twin daughters never came home. She just can't seem to bear it anymore, but she is determined to leave a message for her son and her husband. To let them know about her struggles and the fact that she loves them. Will it all be too late, though?

I had to stop reading at times as it was too much to handle. It's written in such a way that you are hooked - but you need to look away at times - but drawn back to it immediately as well. The way it focuses on then and now brings across the message perfectly in this horrificly captivating story. The internal struggle with the voices telling her what to do is written in such a realistic and honest way that you can most definitely identify with the character.

And then the ending... I would never have guessed that in a million years. It is utterly shocking and horrificly believable at the same time.

If you're into some shocking revelations and internal psychological struggles, read this!
Profile Image for Mandy.
403 reviews22 followers
July 24, 2024
A Heart-Wrenching Tale of Despair and Hope!

This story is an emotional rollercoaster from start to finish, brilliantly written and deeply moving. The tale of Emilia Davenport, a mother standing on the edge of a cliff both literally and figuratively, gripped me from the very beginning. As the one-year anniversary of her twin daughters' disappearance approaches, Emilia's despair is palpable, her grief a constant companion since that tragic night at her family's vineyard.

The plot is masterfully crafted, weaving suspense and raw emotion into a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

What sets this story apart is its ability to convey the depth of Emilia's pain while also highlighting the strength of the human spirit. The portrayal of a family torn apart by tragedy, yet still clinging to hope, is both realistic and powerful.

This book is a must-read for those who appreciate deeply emotional stories with a hint of suspense. The exceptional writing elevates an already gripping tale, making it an unforgettable journey through the darkest of times and the faintest glimmers of hope.
Profile Image for Rachel Chamberlayne.
8 reviews
June 18, 2024
Amy is one of my favorite thriller writers! This story was SHOCKING, and it’s a wild ride. I was blown away by the tension that effortlessly pulls you through the story and the mystery that makes you wonder what REALLY happened and why. If you are looking for a story that keeps you glued to your chair until you’ve finished it, this is the one for you. I was shocked and overwhelmed by the dark, crazy plot twist at the end as well. I thought about this story for DAYS afterward. It’s one of those stories that lingers in your mind and makes you ask yourself, “What would I have done in that situation? Would I have done something different?”

Amy is incredible at crafting stories with themes that transcend time and make you question your own moral compass. She’s also incredible at creating morally grey characters who you can’t help but love to hate. This is easily one of my favorite works by Amy yet, and I can’t wait to read more from her.
Profile Image for Jodie Lott.
3 reviews11 followers
July 21, 2024
A MUST READ!!!!!

One of the most devastatingly heartbreaking but beautiful stories I’ve ever read! I was lucky enough to be chosen as an ARC reader for this book and it’s safe to say I devoured it!

I read it in one sitting, I simply couldn’t get enough! And the emotions I went through were incredible!

This is the PERFECT thriller to get anyone out of a reading slump! Amy’s wording and style of writing is so inviting and easy to read and the speed picks up so perfectly!

I also love how the ending has been written, I won’t spoil it for anyone but the way of knowing without the written word just adds to the shock factor! I love how it’s left me with so many questions, yet also ties everything up so perfectly at the same time

It’s safe to say after reading this I will be keeping a close eye on Amy and making sure I read all of her work! I would recommend to anyone and everyone!
Profile Image for Reading Brew | Shayna.
189 reviews72 followers
July 25, 2024
Twisted. Disturbing. Raw.
For a novella, it sure does pack a punch.

Amy reeled me in with her writing in The Gala, and I just KNEW she would not disappoint with The Tides of Our Sins. She does such a great job of writing touchy topics and making you question your own moral compass/ethical standpoint.

The Tides of Our Sins is written as a dual timeline + dual pov. The dual timeline is everything!! It creates such tension to keep the reader on the edge of their seat through the emotional and agonizing rollercoaster. My mama heart felt horror, grief, and rage...oh, the absolute rage, but then the quietness came...the realization of how dark this world is and that things like this really do/can happen.

On a brighter note, the lavender wine sounded marvelous!!


Notes: psychological suspense novella with dark themes

Trigger warnings: suicide ideations, SA, and human traff!ck!ng
Profile Image for Kia Treml.
46 reviews1 follower
August 16, 2024
THIS BOOK DESERVES MORE THAN 5 STARS!!!

This was such a beautifully written masterpiece! From the very first page the author hooks you by your emotions and never lets go even past the end when you’re left reeling.

The creative imagery, the poignant details that elicit all five senses, and the masterful writing instantly sets this book up for success. Paired with a unique and well thought out plot with the most unexpected twist, this novella (longer than a short story but shorter than a novel) packs an impactful and emotional punch stronger than so many authors can’t accomplish in a full length novel. And the fact that the plot was so well developed and wrapped in only 80 pages without leaving you wanting more to get the full picture is pure art.

I will forever be the biggest fan of this author. I have been a fan since her first novel, The Gala, and can’t wait to support all the work she has to come! Please support her and other indie authors!💜
Profile Image for Lizzy Johnson.
10 reviews
July 30, 2024
Amy Tackett has done it again with attacking a hard hitting conversation. I could not put this book down. Every time the chapter switched between timelines, I had to keep reading to know what happened next. It was the perfect length for a one seated read. While it maybe short it is an extremely impactful read. Instead of short and sweet you could call it short and strong. The twists and turns came out of nowhere and my hand was over my mouth the entire time! With characters full of emotions like Emilia, Tackett’s second book is going to make waves in the lives of those who read it!
Profile Image for India Tungate.
Author 2 books72 followers
October 25, 2025
I met sweet Amy at a book convention that we were both at and she was so so kind to me. Her books sounded very interesting and I knew right then I wanted to give them a try. Now, I don’t typically read this genre but I always like to support a friend. 🥰 Amy’s writing style is beautifully written and definitely keeps readers grinning the edge of their seats. I loved the quote at the beginning of the book and the faith that was woven in through this book. I was so relieved for a happy ending with this one 🙌🏻🥰❤️ If you enjoy thrillers, definitely check out Amy and her novels!
Profile Image for Melissa (honeybee.reads).
1,389 reviews45 followers
December 4, 2025
3.5⭐

The Tides Of Our Sins is a dark and addictive novella that had me in a chokehold. From start to finish the emotions are on high. The suspense keeps building, the pacing is super fast and the reveal absolutely took me by surprise. It's twisted, dark and unfortunately a realistic reflection of the crimes that happen around us. This is definitely a one sitting read, impossible to put down until you know the motivations behind everything. Tackett's writing is absolutely enthralling and all consuming.
Profile Image for Brooke Rader.
153 reviews17 followers
August 3, 2024
Chilled to my bones.

I got a lot of chills reading this novella. I’m still just sitting here in shock..and just imagining what this mother had to choose.

Chills. I’m literally crying in the airport for every mother who’s baby never came home. I never saw that coming.

The ending. Terrifying. I just can’t even process what I just read. Chills. Insanity. Terrifying, emotional thriller that’ll leave you reeling.
6,726 reviews5 followers
June 8, 2025
Entertaining relationship listening 👨‍❤️‍💋‍👨

This kindle ebook novella is from my Kindle Unlimited account

Their twin girls go missing and her brother has been murdered. She and husband are having a difficult time. The wife is the worst with suicide possible. 🌜


I would highly recommend this novella and author to readers of romantic family and friends relationships adventures mystery novels 😯🏡 2025 👒🎉
Profile Image for Christina Hill.
Author 11 books108 followers
May 10, 2024
The way Tackett hits us with a twist is solid every dang time!

So honored to have read an early copy of this one because even though it was short, it was packed with a lot! The family dynamics were so well done and understood and the heavy inclinations Emilia had were handled with tact and empathy.

Read if you love:
+Family drama
+Q's about life
+Cape Cod setting
+Dark secrets
Profile Image for Kristi.
4 reviews
July 20, 2024
What an emotional rollercoaster. I read this book in one sitting. Betrayal, heartbreak, internal mental health battles. A mother willing to do anything to protect her family. A husband fighting the battle of saving his wife while still being a father to his children and trying to save his own sanity. All. The. Emotions.

Amy never disappointed when it comes to thriller, dark/tense mystery!
Profile Image for Sarah Craven.
84 reviews1 follower
August 6, 2024
4.5⭐️ if you want a quick novella read - that is raw, disturbing and stomach turning - this is your pick. I’m still sitting here in shock by the famous last line of this book. Amy is one of my favorite indie authors and is so great in engaging with her readers, but how in the heck does she come up with this stuff? Sigh. My mama heart tonight.
Profile Image for Libby Webber.
Author 4 books39 followers
August 6, 2024
A thrilling, unexpected, world view altering story that will have your heart pounding. I did not see the end coming at all, and had me thinking what the heck I would do in those shoes. It also was an unexpected taste of reality slamming so hard into you, you forget you are reading a book. The content is dark, please check the author’s advisory.
Profile Image for Leah Richardson.
126 reviews4 followers
July 31, 2024
This book was a quick read that I couldn’t put down. From the second I picked it up it had me on the edge of my seat ready to see what happened next. The ending could not have been predicted. Just wait until you read the last line!
Profile Image for Taylor.
31 reviews20 followers
August 5, 2024
“Welcome to the trauma…” is so accurate.

My heart felt this deeply.

*Addition* Now that I’ve had time to process: This is going to stay with me for a long time.

Get this! Grab a blanket and a box of tissues and be prepared to want a glass of wine while you read.
Profile Image for Mandy Hill.
45 reviews7 followers
January 5, 2025
I literally DEVOURED this. You know those reads that leave you sitting there with your jaw dropped for a few minutes to process what you just read? Well, this was one for me. 🤯
I mean wow. This was such a heart-wrenching story with an unfortunate glimpse of reality. 🥲
Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews

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