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Eldritch Depths #2
Tainted Seas
The water-covered world of the Swell has been ravaged by the incursion of the moon shards as they make their way through the endless oceans, corrupting and transforming everything in their path. With little information and no clear direction, the remaining pockets of humanity press forward to retain what life they have on the dangerous waters. Enchanted sea glass is still the key to humanity's survival, but there are some who would seek to exploit the celestial objects for their own cause.
Vila Del'Sor has joined forces with what's left of the Deep Wardens to discover the secrets of the corruption and bring the refugees of the Planks to safety. But her tasks are made all the more difficult by her growing dependance on the strange, healing substance known as Deep One's Blood and Taragin Echilar's unwanted concern for her well-being. Her choices are further complicated by the arrival of a new one who wears the face of her most hated enemy and claims to have information that could help in the quest for understanding the corruption.
Deep below the surface, Narrio Olitarth is not having a good time in the underwater prison of Grim-Mire Hold. Terrible meals, unpleasant company, and life-threatening injures are only a few of the issues he faces as he carries out his new sentence. The mysterious object he stole from St. Trillian's chapel is becoming more difficult to hide with each passing hour, and the Shepherds are still out there. Escape is impossible from the legendary prison, but Narrio is determined to find a way–if he can survive that long.
Meanwhile, all is not well for Bal De Bao, a young Oceanid from Boola's Reach. The Oceanid culture is one of rules and regulations meant to protect and provide for the underwater society, but Bal is tired of rules and regulations. As an offspring from Farmer Craft begetters, Bal is on the search for something greater to do with their life. But when that opportunity comes, Bal is forced to reckon with their changing worldview and consequences for their actions–consequences they did not realize were ever on the table.
The corruption spreads slowly, but the full moon's rise is approaching again. Mysterious forces are at play, machinations are in motion, and no one seems to know what's going on.
Welcome back to the world of the Swell.
Welcome to the Tainted Seas.
Vila Del'Sor has joined forces with what's left of the Deep Wardens to discover the secrets of the corruption and bring the refugees of the Planks to safety. But her tasks are made all the more difficult by her growing dependance on the strange, healing substance known as Deep One's Blood and Taragin Echilar's unwanted concern for her well-being. Her choices are further complicated by the arrival of a new one who wears the face of her most hated enemy and claims to have information that could help in the quest for understanding the corruption.
Deep below the surface, Narrio Olitarth is not having a good time in the underwater prison of Grim-Mire Hold. Terrible meals, unpleasant company, and life-threatening injures are only a few of the issues he faces as he carries out his new sentence. The mysterious object he stole from St. Trillian's chapel is becoming more difficult to hide with each passing hour, and the Shepherds are still out there. Escape is impossible from the legendary prison, but Narrio is determined to find a way–if he can survive that long.
Meanwhile, all is not well for Bal De Bao, a young Oceanid from Boola's Reach. The Oceanid culture is one of rules and regulations meant to protect and provide for the underwater society, but Bal is tired of rules and regulations. As an offspring from Farmer Craft begetters, Bal is on the search for something greater to do with their life. But when that opportunity comes, Bal is forced to reckon with their changing worldview and consequences for their actions–consequences they did not realize were ever on the table.
The corruption spreads slowly, but the full moon's rise is approaching again. Mysterious forces are at play, machinations are in motion, and no one seems to know what's going on.
Welcome back to the world of the Swell.
Welcome to the Tainted Seas.
369 pages, ebook
First published June 9, 2024
7 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
July 10, 2024
I wish I could rank this 4.5 stars because this book was a great sequel to Corrupted Tides and takes the story to the next level. The new areas we get to explore are vast and intriguing, character beats are visceral and full of emotion, and the lore just doubled in size.
Excited for the third installment after the end of a book you could really DIVE into
Excited for the third installment after the end of a book you could really DIVE into
August 4, 2024
SM Campbell did it again the squeal to Corrupted Tides was amazing he filled this book with same amazing details as the first one and he expends on the vast world of the swell and we got meet new characters and new terrifying creatures he even managed to put find a away to put spiders in this book in a world with no dry land only water and we have spiders and I hate spiders! and we got some more deep characters development as well! The book a long with the first one has you laughing and screaming and sometimes crying you can picture everything that is going on and happening you feel like you are in a movie again! You feel what the characters feel you picture and feel their emotions and can still picture every action pack secne and yes thier is a litlte bit of spice in this one as well!! I can’t wait for the rest of this book series to come out I can’t wait to see where our characters go and what lays ahead of them! If you haven’t read the first book go grab it and make sure you buy the second one as well because I can guarantee as soon as you are done with the first one you will want to jump into the second one to continue this amazing story! Am already home sick for this ocean world the third one can not come out fast enough!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2024
A great second installment to the Eldritch Depths series, one in which we pick up with Vila and Narrio, after the calamitous sinking of The Planks, albeit on vastly separate arcs in this one, and are introduced to several more kinds in the Swell—Bal de Bao, a young Oceanid with grand ambitions; Melhor, a Deep One and unlikely ally for Narrio; Arturian Tempe, the handsome Deep Warden who finds common cause with Vila; and then, also, a glimpse at some pirates.
This is a fast-paced, action-packed read, with high stakes for each of the three main characters (Vila, Narrio, and Bal de Bao), each more or less on their own individual quests in this book. The world, having been established in Book One, now expands and it is fun to explore with the author other cities, peoples, and technologies.
I enjoy Campbell’s imagination and writing, and the way he is able to bring character backstories in to bear on current characters’ actions. There are a lot of places this story could go, and he’s left openings to keep you guessing. This is a dark fantasy world, but also comes with dark humor and absurdities that also make it fun.
This is a fast-paced, action-packed read, with high stakes for each of the three main characters (Vila, Narrio, and Bal de Bao), each more or less on their own individual quests in this book. The world, having been established in Book One, now expands and it is fun to explore with the author other cities, peoples, and technologies.
I enjoy Campbell’s imagination and writing, and the way he is able to bring character backstories in to bear on current characters’ actions. There are a lot of places this story could go, and he’s left openings to keep you guessing. This is a dark fantasy world, but also comes with dark humor and absurdities that also make it fun.
September 30, 2024
This was so good. I devoured this book in 3 days. Started a wee bit slow for the setting in the beginning but oh man it kicked off and was very intense. My favorite ended up being Melhor (A. Tempe was my favorite in the last book). I guess I just really enjoy the villains and creatures. Bal was a close second, his society and a look at it was so neat. I think he could have had his own book really but it was all explained tidy. Easily 5 stars, if you are into DnD-style adventures and Eldritch monsters I highly recommend this series. There are just enough fun adventures and scary horror to keep me on my toes.
May 31, 2024
Advance reader review (it's a little long. sorry, not sorry)
SM Campbell did it again, another 5 stars: Tainted Seas, book two in the Eldritch Depths series. There is a clean version of the book if you are wanting something a bit more PG. Oh, and it is a must that you read book one, Corrupted Tides, before diving into Tainted Seas (pun intended) – be warned this review has vague book one spoilers.
We pick up after the evacuation of The Planks, Vila joining the Deep Wardens (like her father was), Narrio being arrested, and the world (above and below the swell) in deep crap due to the moon shards mutating everything they touch! Tainted Seas takes us through three different story lines – Vila’s, Narrio’s, and newcomer Bal De Bao’s. Above the Swell Vila’s on quest to get answers about the moon shards and to put a stop to the shards being used in the development of weapons by corrupt humans. And if that isn’t enough, Vila is battling an addiction to Deep One’s Blood while also learning how to work with and trust someone totally unexpected. Below the Swell, Narrio has landed himself locked away in Grim-Mire Hold, an underwater prison that holds no promise of redemption, release, or escape. Narrio still has the stone The Shepards of the Earth commissioned him to steal, and they want it back. Every step Narrio takes seems to end badly, but he has made a few friends while locked up and one of them is larger than life itself. Bal De Bao’s story introduces us to the world and lives of the Oceanids – think merfolk. Bal wants to make their own path in a society that does not have space or room for change, every being has their own lot in life and must stay the path. Bal is young, optimistic, and his decision to go against the norm could cost him everything – family, friends, life as he knows it.
S.M. Campbells story telling just about near perfect – he gives you what you need to be immersed in this world without going overboard in the descriptions. The mutated monsters in Tainted Seas are the things that can only come alive in nightmares – giving this reader a couple of sleepless nights of being attacked by a Shark-Octopus mutant that was out for blood.
Thank you, Seth, for the opportunity to be an advance reader of Tainted Seas, it is a treasure and I cannot wait for book three: Defiled Oceans.
SM Campbell did it again, another 5 stars: Tainted Seas, book two in the Eldritch Depths series. There is a clean version of the book if you are wanting something a bit more PG. Oh, and it is a must that you read book one, Corrupted Tides, before diving into Tainted Seas (pun intended) – be warned this review has vague book one spoilers.
We pick up after the evacuation of The Planks, Vila joining the Deep Wardens (like her father was), Narrio being arrested, and the world (above and below the swell) in deep crap due to the moon shards mutating everything they touch! Tainted Seas takes us through three different story lines – Vila’s, Narrio’s, and newcomer Bal De Bao’s. Above the Swell Vila’s on quest to get answers about the moon shards and to put a stop to the shards being used in the development of weapons by corrupt humans. And if that isn’t enough, Vila is battling an addiction to Deep One’s Blood while also learning how to work with and trust someone totally unexpected. Below the Swell, Narrio has landed himself locked away in Grim-Mire Hold, an underwater prison that holds no promise of redemption, release, or escape. Narrio still has the stone The Shepards of the Earth commissioned him to steal, and they want it back. Every step Narrio takes seems to end badly, but he has made a few friends while locked up and one of them is larger than life itself. Bal De Bao’s story introduces us to the world and lives of the Oceanids – think merfolk. Bal wants to make their own path in a society that does not have space or room for change, every being has their own lot in life and must stay the path. Bal is young, optimistic, and his decision to go against the norm could cost him everything – family, friends, life as he knows it.
S.M. Campbells story telling just about near perfect – he gives you what you need to be immersed in this world without going overboard in the descriptions. The mutated monsters in Tainted Seas are the things that can only come alive in nightmares – giving this reader a couple of sleepless nights of being attacked by a Shark-Octopus mutant that was out for blood.
Thank you, Seth, for the opportunity to be an advance reader of Tainted Seas, it is a treasure and I cannot wait for book three: Defiled Oceans.
August 18, 2025
Tainted Seas picks up almost immediately where Corrupted Tides left off with both Vila and Narrio in decidedly sticky situations and no easy options for either of them. It also opens up the novel by including an additional perspective through Bal de Bao, a young Oceanid who has ideas decidedly above his station. The three don't overlap throughout the novel, however the stakes for each are high and it goes without question that they will end up coming together in future novels I suspect.
This novel really opens the world up from the first novel which took place almost entirely in one floating city. With Narrio imprisoned and Vila questing with the Wardens to find the origin of the mutated creatures and the moonstone that seems to be causing it, the inclusion of the underwater life of Bal de Bao works as a counterpoint to highlight that humanity are not the only society or race of intelligent species on this world and begin to paint a picture of the hierarchies and structures under the water.
It's also well paced, full of threat and danger and unexpectedly twisty as it careens between the characters chaotic lives. Some of the events were anticipated, but the way in which we get there isn't. Other events came completely from the left field and kept me on my toes. The characters all came to life on the page, with Narrio still being a stand out favourite, but Bal de Bao's naïve belief in change and finding a new station in life making you feel for the young idealist. Narrio and Bal de Bao's narratives caught me the most, but I suspect Vila's perspective will once more come into it's own.
This is dark and weird and excellent all in one multi-stranded narrative that had me hooked from the opening pages right until the very end. If you've ever wondered about merman politics or sex, you've come to the right place. But even if you haven't - and let's face it, I certainly hadn't - this was an enjoyable ride from beginning to end and I'm really intrigued to see where it goes.
This novel really opens the world up from the first novel which took place almost entirely in one floating city. With Narrio imprisoned and Vila questing with the Wardens to find the origin of the mutated creatures and the moonstone that seems to be causing it, the inclusion of the underwater life of Bal de Bao works as a counterpoint to highlight that humanity are not the only society or race of intelligent species on this world and begin to paint a picture of the hierarchies and structures under the water.
It's also well paced, full of threat and danger and unexpectedly twisty as it careens between the characters chaotic lives. Some of the events were anticipated, but the way in which we get there isn't. Other events came completely from the left field and kept me on my toes. The characters all came to life on the page, with Narrio still being a stand out favourite, but Bal de Bao's naïve belief in change and finding a new station in life making you feel for the young idealist. Narrio and Bal de Bao's narratives caught me the most, but I suspect Vila's perspective will once more come into it's own.
This is dark and weird and excellent all in one multi-stranded narrative that had me hooked from the opening pages right until the very end. If you've ever wondered about merman politics or sex, you've come to the right place. But even if you haven't - and let's face it, I certainly hadn't - this was an enjoyable ride from beginning to end and I'm really intrigued to see where it goes.
October 9, 2025
How deep does the corruption go?
This second installment continues Vila & Narrio's disparate journeys, but we're also treated to a new and intriguing character: Bal De Bao. With no clear gender and an ambiguous, merfolk-like physiology, Bal and their race provide another very cool facet of life in the Swell.
Narrio's phobia of the deep sea & open water plays an even bigger role in this book. He's been incarcerated in a deep sea prison, one of his 'chores' being to feed & de-louse another prisoner: a fabled Deep One who could devour him in a heartbeat. It's a precarious position, trying not to draw too much attention from the brutal guards, keep the mysterious earth stone hidden, all while trying to plot a daring escape. Narrio's desperation to escape the deep-sea prison was a palpable thing. The prison was a foul and evil place.
Meanwhile Vila must come to terms with working with her arch nemesis Agustan Tempé's twin brother, Arturian. Imagine having to place your trust in a man wearing the face of your greatest enemy? Add to that the gruding respect and the hints of a growing attraction between the two of them and their relationship becomes a deep and complex thing. The crystal affliction seems to have slowed its spread, but the danger is still there... waiting.
Through young Bal we learn about the Oceanid society. Sadly, he is little more than a cog in the machine of his society... one where everyone has a predetermined place and no one, NO ONE, is allowed to question the status quo. We slowly learn that the Oceanid utopia is little more than a facade. The social commentary is on-point, and serves as a true vehicle for moving the story's narrative along.
I'm 100% invested in this series and these characters!
This second installment continues Vila & Narrio's disparate journeys, but we're also treated to a new and intriguing character: Bal De Bao. With no clear gender and an ambiguous, merfolk-like physiology, Bal and their race provide another very cool facet of life in the Swell.
Narrio's phobia of the deep sea & open water plays an even bigger role in this book. He's been incarcerated in a deep sea prison, one of his 'chores' being to feed & de-louse another prisoner: a fabled Deep One who could devour him in a heartbeat. It's a precarious position, trying not to draw too much attention from the brutal guards, keep the mysterious earth stone hidden, all while trying to plot a daring escape. Narrio's desperation to escape the deep-sea prison was a palpable thing. The prison was a foul and evil place.
Meanwhile Vila must come to terms with working with her arch nemesis Agustan Tempé's twin brother, Arturian. Imagine having to place your trust in a man wearing the face of your greatest enemy? Add to that the gruding respect and the hints of a growing attraction between the two of them and their relationship becomes a deep and complex thing. The crystal affliction seems to have slowed its spread, but the danger is still there... waiting.
Through young Bal we learn about the Oceanid society. Sadly, he is little more than a cog in the machine of his society... one where everyone has a predetermined place and no one, NO ONE, is allowed to question the status quo. We slowly learn that the Oceanid utopia is little more than a facade. The social commentary is on-point, and serves as a true vehicle for moving the story's narrative along.
I'm 100% invested in this series and these characters!
June 9, 2024
This book is a great addition to the Eldritch Depths universe. Just like the first book, this book is filled with action and adventure. We get to revisit the major characters from the first book and continue to watch their journeys. Again, epigraphs give hints to the lore of the world (and sometimes they might even include a little joke). On top of all that, we also get to spend more time in the waters of The Swell as we learn about some of the fascinating creatures that inhabit this world. If you like action and adventure, you want to see how pirates fit into this world covered in water, or you want to read about the Eldritch beings and Oceanids of this fantasy world, check out this book!
June 15, 2024
An excellent follow-up to a fantastic debut! Campbell's world is dark, his characters honest and gritty, his storytelling immersing. As someone who really, REALLY, hates the deep dark depths of the ocean, I find myself being suckered in each time I pick up one of S.M. Campbell's novels. Anyone who can make me feel compassion for a big, scary sea monster/god (Melhor) deserves a medal. I'd recommend this book to anyone who loves dark, gritty fantasy novels filled with characters who are a breath of fresh air *pun intended*.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to receive an ARC of Tainted Seas. I cannot wait for book 3. p.s. please keep Narrio alive.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to receive an ARC of Tainted Seas. I cannot wait for book 3. p.s. please keep Narrio alive.
June 7, 2024
Book 2 in the Corrupted Tides Eldritch Depths Series, this was one of the best sequels I’ve read to date. Every character arc was fantastic and phenomenally well-done, including and highlighting the new edition of Bal De Bao.
I particularly related to Vila, and her continued search to find meaning in this water-run world, finding both her place, as well as survival and learning more about her destiny. Narrio is always a delicious treat, and his suctioning little friend, just heart eyes all around.
Adored it, a must read!!!
I particularly related to Vila, and her continued search to find meaning in this water-run world, finding both her place, as well as survival and learning more about her destiny. Narrio is always a delicious treat, and his suctioning little friend, just heart eyes all around.
Adored it, a must read!!!
August 15, 2025
The characters, the world, the plot…. The seas keep giving the whole time. Listening on audible, the narrator, Hel, did an absolute fantastic job! I loved how well it kept me sucked in, just riding the waves of the story. The flow of the book overall kept me reading without making me feel like I was lost between what was going on. If you like in depth worlds and characters, S.M. truly thought of all the tiny details while writing this series.
December 28, 2024
I'll never forgive S.M.
How dare you write an enjoyable book that's 1/3rd fish politics.
If you liked the first book, you're going to enjoy this one as it gets wackier and we explore the wonderfully distressing world of The Swell.
I want more, and I'm not happy about it.
How dare you write an enjoyable book that's 1/3rd fish politics.
If you liked the first book, you're going to enjoy this one as it gets wackier and we explore the wonderfully distressing world of The Swell.
I want more, and I'm not happy about it.
September 14, 2025
I loved the 2nd installment of this series! The way he pulls you into the world and makes you feel for the characters is epic! Can't wait for the next book to find out what happens next! S.M. Cambell is one of my favorite authors!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews