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Compass and Blade #2
Shadow and Tide
The second irresistible adventure in the Compass and Blade trilogy, full of intrigue, sizzling romance, dark magic and monstrous beings.
A magical bargain always comes at a cost.
On Rosevear, Mira is plagued by nightmares. She is lost and untethered – and then the watch strike, burning her home. The attack ignites a spark within her, and Mira knows it’s time to call in her bargain with Elijah, and tear down Captain Renshaw and the watch.
Mira must find allies and she turns to the witches for help unlocking her siren abilities. But the witches aren’t all on Mira’s side; and what they ask of her may be her undoing.
As she desperately fights for a way to keep her home safe, with Elijah by her side, more deadly and seductive than ever, Mira realises she is being hunted. For in the eyes of the ruling council, Mira is a monster, and monstrous creatures must be tamed …
A magical bargain always comes at a cost.
On Rosevear, Mira is plagued by nightmares. She is lost and untethered – and then the watch strike, burning her home. The attack ignites a spark within her, and Mira knows it’s time to call in her bargain with Elijah, and tear down Captain Renshaw and the watch.
Mira must find allies and she turns to the witches for help unlocking her siren abilities. But the witches aren’t all on Mira’s side; and what they ask of her may be her undoing.
As she desperately fights for a way to keep her home safe, with Elijah by her side, more deadly and seductive than ever, Mira realises she is being hunted. For in the eyes of the ruling council, Mira is a monster, and monstrous creatures must be tamed …
384 pages, Paperback
First published February 27, 2025
31 people are currently reading
6001 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Greenlaw
8 books475 followersRachel Greenlaw is the author of ONE CHRISTMAS MORNING, THE WOODSMOKE WOMEN'S BOOK OF SPELLS the COMPASS AND BLADE series and THE ORDEALS duology. She lives on an island in the middle of the Atlantic, where you'll find her wandering the white sand beaches, searching for cowrie shells and writing her next story.
For up to date information on Rachel's books, giveaways and news, sign up for her newsletter at https://rachelgreenlaw.com
And follow her on instagram and TikTok @rachelgreenlaw_ for a window into her world.
For up to date information on Rachel's books, giveaways and news, sign up for her newsletter at https://rachelgreenlaw.com
And follow her on instagram and TikTok @rachelgreenlaw_ for a window into her world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
September 22, 2024
I have just one thing to say about this book I’ve written.
Get ready to meet the witches ✨
Get ready to meet the witches ✨
March 16, 2025
I’m suing Rachel Greenlaw for emotional damage.
“‘To bargains and surprises’ ‘To young women made of storms.’”
Ahhhhhhhhhh this book was such a step up from the first book (and I really liked the first book) I literally blasted through it in a day.
First of all, this book ripped my heart out at like three separate points and I can’t really say too much without giving spoilers but WHY did I/Mira need to go through all of this 🫠
The found family in this book is top notch. Each of the characters feels unique and fleshed out and they all complement each other beautifully - with great banter. And they’re based in a MAGIC CASTLE? Added a star on for that alone 😅
Eliiiiiiiiiiiiii 😭😭😭 omg this guy is swoon worthy in ALL the ways. So capable, so strategic, so loyal & protective, and can travel through the isles like some kind of shadow daddy teleporter? UGH.
Fair warning, the ending is a huge cliffhanger that has left a hole in my soul. I need book 3 yesterday.
“‘To bargains and surprises’ ‘To young women made of storms.’”
Ahhhhhhhhhh this book was such a step up from the first book (and I really liked the first book) I literally blasted through it in a day.
First of all, this book ripped my heart out at like three separate points and I can’t really say too much without giving spoilers but WHY did I/Mira need to go through all of this 🫠
The found family in this book is top notch. Each of the characters feels unique and fleshed out and they all complement each other beautifully - with great banter. And they’re based in a MAGIC CASTLE? Added a star on for that alone 😅
Eliiiiiiiiiiiiii 😭😭😭 omg this guy is swoon worthy in ALL the ways. So capable, so strategic, so loyal & protective, and can travel through the isles like some kind of shadow daddy teleporter? UGH.
Fair warning, the ending is a huge cliffhanger that has left a hole in my soul. I need book 3 yesterday.
February 27, 2025
I have quite a few weak spots when it comes to books and reading. Of course I easily fall for a pretty cover, especially combined with sprayed edges. The cover of the first book was already pretty, but I think this cover looks even better! I also love love love stories about Sirens. So, I thought it was a very safe bet to request this second book from Netgalley before having read the first one. Harper Fire granted my request and so it was time to dive in.
Luckily I did enjoy this second book a little more than the first book. That's mainly because there is not a lot of Seth in this book. I normally do my very best to understand characters, but Seth really got on my nerves and I was kinda sad he survived the first book. It's also because it feels like our heroine is a little less dumb. She now understands that the world doesn't always want what's best for her and that she can't trust any pretty face she meets.
Unfortunately the plot didn't get much better. This book seemed to be all over the place. All our heroine wanted was to protect her isle and its people, all the villains wanted was to capture her alive for whatever purpose. We never understand what this is all about. I imagine the author wants to keep it a secret, so all can be revealed in the third book, but therefore it was unclear what was at stake, what are we fighting for, what future are we fighting for, what is the end goal?
There is also a lot of cool lore added, but I'm really wondering if combining all this in one story works in this case. The chapters from Brielle's point of view were the most interesting ones of the story, but also that storyline lacked direction. And despite the beautiful writing, the author really has a knack for writing the most pretty sentences, I still couldn't care less about any of these characters. Something is lacking to give me the feeling I know them and root for them. I just don't know what.
However, it's kinda clear that I won't be reading the third book in this series. No matter how pretty the cover will be.
Luckily I did enjoy this second book a little more than the first book. That's mainly because there is not a lot of Seth in this book. I normally do my very best to understand characters, but Seth really got on my nerves and I was kinda sad he survived the first book. It's also because it feels like our heroine is a little less dumb. She now understands that the world doesn't always want what's best for her and that she can't trust any pretty face she meets.
Unfortunately the plot didn't get much better. This book seemed to be all over the place. All our heroine wanted was to protect her isle and its people, all the villains wanted was to capture her alive for whatever purpose. We never understand what this is all about. I imagine the author wants to keep it a secret, so all can be revealed in the third book, but therefore it was unclear what was at stake, what are we fighting for, what future are we fighting for, what is the end goal?
There is also a lot of cool lore added, but I'm really wondering if combining all this in one story works in this case. The chapters from Brielle's point of view were the most interesting ones of the story, but also that storyline lacked direction. And despite the beautiful writing, the author really has a knack for writing the most pretty sentences, I still couldn't care less about any of these characters. Something is lacking to give me the feeling I know them and root for them. I just don't know what.
However, it's kinda clear that I won't be reading the third book in this series. No matter how pretty the cover will be.
March 17, 2025
I received an eARC of this book via NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review.
Shadow and Tide by Rachel Greenlaw is the follow-up book to Compass and Blade, which follows a young woman as she navigates her new abilities, hides from the Watch, and works to save those she loves. Picking up one month after the end of book one, this one starts with fire and death. Mira and her fellow islanders are under siege. The Watch wants to try Mira for crimes, but really want her for her siren abilities. With the help of Elijah, she escapes and begins her training to take on the Watch and bring Captain Renshaw down.
Mira continues to grow as a character in this book. Her grief over losing her father and what is happening to her village eats away at her and drives most of her actions. She closes herself off to others, not wanting to feel the pain of losing them if something were to happen. Mira’s need for revenge against Captain Renshaw and Seth eclipses everything else that is going on around her.
While a majority of the story is told from Mira’s perspective, we are introduced to Brielle, a hunter for the witch covens. Brielle offers a fresh perspective on Mira and her island. She is hired to hunt Mira, but unlike most of her hunts, she is told to bring Mira in alive and unharmed. This proves to be a challenge. Brielle sees Mira as a monster capable of destruction and murder. She hunts her relentlessly throughout the book, but something about Mira always holds Brielle back from taking her.
While I enjoyed Brielle’s POV, it tended to break the pace of the plot. Mira’s story would just be picking up speed and creating interest when we’d flip to Brielle’s POV. It was frustrating and served to detract from the story. The lore we learn from Brielle’s perspective about the witches and other magical creatures makes up for this. I also struggled with the romance subplot between Mira and Elijah. It was obvious in book one that Elijah would become the love interest, however after Mira’s disastrous crush on Seth, I felt it didn’t fit the narrative.
Overall, Shadow and Tide was an okay read for me. I didn’t love it or hate it. I’m kind of ambivalent about it. The story ends on a cliffhanger, and I most likely will not continue the story. A lot of the issues I had with book one (repetitiveness, too much inner monologue, telling instead of showing) is still present in this book. If you enjoy pirates, magic, and adventure, this one may work for you. Sadly, it was a miss for me.
Shadow and Tide by Rachel Greenlaw is the follow-up book to Compass and Blade, which follows a young woman as she navigates her new abilities, hides from the Watch, and works to save those she loves. Picking up one month after the end of book one, this one starts with fire and death. Mira and her fellow islanders are under siege. The Watch wants to try Mira for crimes, but really want her for her siren abilities. With the help of Elijah, she escapes and begins her training to take on the Watch and bring Captain Renshaw down.
Mira continues to grow as a character in this book. Her grief over losing her father and what is happening to her village eats away at her and drives most of her actions. She closes herself off to others, not wanting to feel the pain of losing them if something were to happen. Mira’s need for revenge against Captain Renshaw and Seth eclipses everything else that is going on around her.
While a majority of the story is told from Mira’s perspective, we are introduced to Brielle, a hunter for the witch covens. Brielle offers a fresh perspective on Mira and her island. She is hired to hunt Mira, but unlike most of her hunts, she is told to bring Mira in alive and unharmed. This proves to be a challenge. Brielle sees Mira as a monster capable of destruction and murder. She hunts her relentlessly throughout the book, but something about Mira always holds Brielle back from taking her.
While I enjoyed Brielle’s POV, it tended to break the pace of the plot. Mira’s story would just be picking up speed and creating interest when we’d flip to Brielle’s POV. It was frustrating and served to detract from the story. The lore we learn from Brielle’s perspective about the witches and other magical creatures makes up for this. I also struggled with the romance subplot between Mira and Elijah. It was obvious in book one that Elijah would become the love interest, however after Mira’s disastrous crush on Seth, I felt it didn’t fit the narrative.
Overall, Shadow and Tide was an okay read for me. I didn’t love it or hate it. I’m kind of ambivalent about it. The story ends on a cliffhanger, and I most likely will not continue the story. A lot of the issues I had with book one (repetitiveness, too much inner monologue, telling instead of showing) is still present in this book. If you enjoy pirates, magic, and adventure, this one may work for you. Sadly, it was a miss for me.
March 24, 2025
When I started this book initially, I already read Compass and Blade when it was released, but I found I couldn't follow what happened at the beginning. So first a reread of Compass and Blade happened.
Shadow and Tide picks up where Compass and Blade ends and I got thrown back into the story immediately (after the reread). It was a fun read, some tension, some revelations and I loved the new POV. It kinda turned a bit political and I liked that. I sometimes had a bit of trouble following the plot, but overall I enjoyed this very much! I cannot wait for book 3.
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Collins for this arc. All opinions are my own.
Shadow and Tide picks up where Compass and Blade ends and I got thrown back into the story immediately (after the reread). It was a fun read, some tension, some revelations and I loved the new POV. It kinda turned a bit political and I liked that. I sometimes had a bit of trouble following the plot, but overall I enjoyed this very much! I cannot wait for book 3.
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Collins for this arc. All opinions are my own.
March 12, 2025
this picks up after the first book and already starts off with a lot of action including the entire island being set on fire by The Watch in retaliation for Mira’s actions. Mira sets off with Elijah to not only fulfill their bargain, but also to get revenge for her island and for her people. This book is full or mythical creatures including sirens, witches, and even a kraken! I loved reading about Mira and Elijah’s adventures together as they work on figuring out how to take down their common enemy while also learning more about themselves and their own powers. I enjoyed this book more than first one just because the pace was a bit faster, and I liked seeing Mira and Elijah’s relationship grow and develop! The ending was insane, and I can’t believe it ends on a cliffhanger 😭
March 19, 2025
4⭐️
60 second review: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNdd9UoV1/
✨ Thank you Harper Collins for sending me this book in return for an honest review. ✨
I enjoyed this one so much more than the first one!
The relationship between the FMC and MMC was great and I loved the addition of the witches. I also thought the sirens and taken were great additions to make things more exciting and adventurous!
60 second review: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNdd9UoV1/
✨ Thank you Harper Collins for sending me this book in return for an honest review. ✨
I enjoyed this one so much more than the first one!
The relationship between the FMC and MMC was great and I loved the addition of the witches. I also thought the sirens and taken were great additions to make things more exciting and adventurous!
January 21, 2025
Overall Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: YA
✨Tropes✨
⚔️Found Family
⚔️Adventure
⚔️Witches x Sirens x Humans x ?
⚔️Shadow Magic
⚔️Multi POV
⚔️Cliffhanger Ending
✨Initial Thoughts✨
This story has taken such an unexpected turn from the first book, but I loved it. I loved the first book, but this second book has so much more. There are more creatures in this world that we’re introduced to as well as the concept of multiple worlds.
The story picks up a month after the first book ends. The action and adventure is almost instantaneous. Mira is back on her home island and is preparing to fulfill her bargain with Elijah when her island is attacked. She manages to escape with Elijah, who takes her to his home where she is able to find safety, if only for a while. However, the council of witches has marked Mira for capture and they have assigned the case to one of the best monster hunters, Brielle. With the Watch, Renshaw, and Brielle on her heels, it’s up to Mira to save not only the remaining people in her village, but also herself.
✨Pros✨
* Non-stop action and adventure
* Character growth and development
* New and lovable characters
* The character and world development
* Rich descriptions
* No cringy nicknames!!
✨Cons✨
* That I currently don’t have the next book in my hands after that cliffhanger ending!
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the gifted copy and the opportunity to review this book.
Spice Rating: YA
✨Tropes✨
⚔️Found Family
⚔️Adventure
⚔️Witches x Sirens x Humans x ?
⚔️Shadow Magic
⚔️Multi POV
⚔️Cliffhanger Ending
✨Initial Thoughts✨
This story has taken such an unexpected turn from the first book, but I loved it. I loved the first book, but this second book has so much more. There are more creatures in this world that we’re introduced to as well as the concept of multiple worlds.
The story picks up a month after the first book ends. The action and adventure is almost instantaneous. Mira is back on her home island and is preparing to fulfill her bargain with Elijah when her island is attacked. She manages to escape with Elijah, who takes her to his home where she is able to find safety, if only for a while. However, the council of witches has marked Mira for capture and they have assigned the case to one of the best monster hunters, Brielle. With the Watch, Renshaw, and Brielle on her heels, it’s up to Mira to save not only the remaining people in her village, but also herself.
✨Pros✨
* Non-stop action and adventure
* Character growth and development
* New and lovable characters
* The character and world development
* Rich descriptions
* No cringy nicknames!!
✨Cons✨
* That I currently don’t have the next book in my hands after that cliffhanger ending!
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the gifted copy and the opportunity to review this book.
September 22, 2024
A fantastic follow-up to Compass and Blade! Mira’s raging tempest of power, Brielle’s perspective, Elijah’s family, and the quest to protect the Fortunate Isles. I love this seafaring world full of magic, witches, and monsters!
The world and larger political mechanisms continue to expand. We learn more about The Watch and the role they play in trying to gain control of all the islands - condemning those who stand against them and ruthless in their quest to harness all magical beings and power. I loved learning more about Elijah’s background and the introduction of the witches into the story. The romance was also so sweet and perfectly written. The ending left me wanting more, more, more. There’s still so much to explore and I can’t wait to see how the story concludes!
Thank you to Netgalley, Quill Tree Books, and HarperCollins Children’s Books for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
The world and larger political mechanisms continue to expand. We learn more about The Watch and the role they play in trying to gain control of all the islands - condemning those who stand against them and ruthless in their quest to harness all magical beings and power. I loved learning more about Elijah’s background and the introduction of the witches into the story. The romance was also so sweet and perfectly written. The ending left me wanting more, more, more. There’s still so much to explore and I can’t wait to see how the story concludes!
Thank you to Netgalley, Quill Tree Books, and HarperCollins Children’s Books for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
March 6, 2025
What a sequel
Where Compass and Blade was a slow build, introducing characters and backstory, Shadow and Tide was action-packed right from the start, drawing me in and reminding me just why I was so invested in this story. I was once again drawn into Mira's world, willing the Rosevear islanders on as they found themselves beset by yet another tragedy. I found myself fearing for the safety of other islanders and cheering when they all banded together.
This part of the series saw an expansion of the world-building, introducing us to both new locations and new characters.
The witches featured heavily in Shadow and Tide, with a new POV from hunter Brielle. We get to learn what the inner workings of a coven is like, which leads us into discovering what the leaders of this wonderful world are truly up to. And why they want Mira so badly.
Beyond Brielle, we were introduced to a whole host of other characters, all of whom had unique personalities and really added to the story. I can really appriciate how we have a little band of freedom fighters forming now.
From our returning characters, we got more of Eli's backstory, and an insight into the struggles he has faced. I'm excited to see more of his development in the next book. The relationship between Mira and Eli was also so sweet and really well developed over the little time they've spent together
Having started so strongly, the action continued throughout, our characters barely had a chance to rest at all. The ending though... just wow. I am sat here once again waiting for the next book. A really solid sequel in a fantastic series.
Where Compass and Blade was a slow build, introducing characters and backstory, Shadow and Tide was action-packed right from the start, drawing me in and reminding me just why I was so invested in this story. I was once again drawn into Mira's world, willing the Rosevear islanders on as they found themselves beset by yet another tragedy. I found myself fearing for the safety of other islanders and cheering when they all banded together.
This part of the series saw an expansion of the world-building, introducing us to both new locations and new characters.
The witches featured heavily in Shadow and Tide, with a new POV from hunter Brielle. We get to learn what the inner workings of a coven is like, which leads us into discovering what the leaders of this wonderful world are truly up to. And why they want Mira so badly.
Beyond Brielle, we were introduced to a whole host of other characters, all of whom had unique personalities and really added to the story. I can really appriciate how we have a little band of freedom fighters forming now.
From our returning characters, we got more of Eli's backstory, and an insight into the struggles he has faced. I'm excited to see more of his development in the next book. The relationship between Mira and Eli was also so sweet and really well developed over the little time they've spent together
Having started so strongly, the action continued throughout, our characters barely had a chance to rest at all. The ending though... just wow. I am sat here once again waiting for the next book. A really solid sequel in a fantastic series.
January 10, 2025
*thank you net galley for providing an e-arc in return for an honest review*
I know I enjoyed the first book but it was a 3 star read, a solid 3 star but 3 star nonetheless. This…WOW!!! compass and blade set the tone for this one to FLY. I absolutely flew through it, something was happening on every single page. Action action and more action and I LOVED it. If you’re wanting fast paced and adventure, get on this!!!!
I know I enjoyed the first book but it was a 3 star read, a solid 3 star but 3 star nonetheless. This…WOW!!! compass and blade set the tone for this one to FLY. I absolutely flew through it, something was happening on every single page. Action action and more action and I LOVED it. If you’re wanting fast paced and adventure, get on this!!!!
March 8, 2025
Really enjoyed this! It felt different than the first with the introduction of the witches and quite a few new characters. We also get a new POV which really worked for me. There’s much more world building in this book and a lot of great action. Interested to see where book 3 is going to take us after that ending!!
February 25, 2025
I need a minute to process that ending
November 2, 2025
I didn't really vibe with the characters and the storyline was slow and pretty boring
May 25, 2025
Beautifully written sequel to Compass and Blade, I stand by the fact that this is one of the most unique fantasy stories I have read and that is truly saying something these days…wish I didn’t have to wait so long for the finale!
May 4, 2025
4.5 ⭐ I loved this sequel. The world is built upon even further than the first book, with the introduction of the witches and coven workings.
I can't wait to see what happens in the third installment!
I can't wait to see what happens in the third installment!
March 22, 2025
I absolutely loved this sequel to Compass and Blade, I was so eager to fall back into this story and I loved the direction it went. It was written just as beautifully as the first, the creation of the storyline was fleshed out so well. I loved all of the character developments, they came together with the storyline fantastically. I still love Mira she gave up so much for everyone round her, her strength was inspiring. I also loved her relationship with Elijah, he was an interesting character.
This storyline pulled me in from start to finish and I really got swept away reading this novel, it was the sequel I was waiting for and it definitely didn't disappoint.
This storyline pulled me in from start to finish and I really got swept away reading this novel, it was the sequel I was waiting for and it definitely didn't disappoint.
March 23, 2025
Better than the first one. But that was not a high hurdle. Moderately interested in seeing how the trilogy (and please let it stay slated for only three) ends.
November 9, 2024
Oh, this was such a great sequel, so much happened, and I just had to keep reading!
October 18, 2024
An excellent secondary installment that deepens the characters, expands the world, and improves on its predecessor in almost every way. This book is actually a perfect example as to why I, as a librarian, request sequel titles; because while I enjoyed the first book, I was also very much aware of its flaws. There were actually several things about it that would have irked me in another book, and this made me hesitant to more broadly recommend it or promote it. But now that I've read the sequel and know all the goodness and potential that awaits, you bet your biscuit I'm going to be spreading the love for this series!
The world in this book just felt so much richer and more lived in than the first, and a big part of that is due to the addition of a new (third person) POV character through whom we are able to gain greater insight into the workings of the magic and politics of Arnhem (and maybe beyond?). We really get to know the witches here and are finally introduced to the mysterious ruling council, both of which make for interesting and entertaining antagonists--and whose presence in the story certainly acts to raise the stakes. Mira, of course, is still the main protagonist and still making plenty of mistakes and potentially dumb decisions. Her allies feel more well-developed this time around, though, and I found myself quite attached to several of them. The found family vibes are strong. And let's just say that the love stories--romantic, platonic, familial--contained within these pages are all lovely and well done. (I'm really routing for quite a few!)
All in all a very enjoyable read that elevates the story and promises even great things to come. Be prepared: this ones ends on a bit of a cliff hanger and you will be desperate to find out what happens next!
ARC provided by NetGalley.
The world in this book just felt so much richer and more lived in than the first, and a big part of that is due to the addition of a new (third person) POV character through whom we are able to gain greater insight into the workings of the magic and politics of Arnhem (and maybe beyond?). We really get to know the witches here and are finally introduced to the mysterious ruling council, both of which make for interesting and entertaining antagonists--and whose presence in the story certainly acts to raise the stakes. Mira, of course, is still the main protagonist and still making plenty of mistakes and potentially dumb decisions. Her allies feel more well-developed this time around, though, and I found myself quite attached to several of them. The found family vibes are strong. And let's just say that the love stories--romantic, platonic, familial--contained within these pages are all lovely and well done. (I'm really routing for quite a few!)
All in all a very enjoyable read that elevates the story and promises even great things to come. Be prepared: this ones ends on a bit of a cliff hanger and you will be desperate to find out what happens next!
ARC provided by NetGalley.
August 4, 2025
This review appeared in the article "The Plot Thickens in These 23 YA Fiction Series" for School Library Journal:
The world of the “Compass and Blade” trilogy expands in this second volume, as Mira continues to search for answers about her siren heritage, and monster hunter Brielle, is introduced. Vivid descriptions and atmospheric prose set the scene, underscoring the comparatively one-dimensional character motivations for protagonist Mira and other characters, especially Brielle who, being assigned to hunt Mira, begins to question her work hunting monsters and extracting their blood for witches to use in spells. With a wider scope, this story situates Mira in the larger political climate beyond her beloved isle of Rosevear, allowing her to learn more about the powers at play and pursue vengeance against those who continue to threaten everything the Fortunate Isles hold dear. VERDICT With new enemies, old allies, and a cliffhanger ending, the stage is set for an explosive finale.
The world of the “Compass and Blade” trilogy expands in this second volume, as Mira continues to search for answers about her siren heritage, and monster hunter Brielle, is introduced. Vivid descriptions and atmospheric prose set the scene, underscoring the comparatively one-dimensional character motivations for protagonist Mira and other characters, especially Brielle who, being assigned to hunt Mira, begins to question her work hunting monsters and extracting their blood for witches to use in spells. With a wider scope, this story situates Mira in the larger political climate beyond her beloved isle of Rosevear, allowing her to learn more about the powers at play and pursue vengeance against those who continue to threaten everything the Fortunate Isles hold dear. VERDICT With new enemies, old allies, and a cliffhanger ending, the stage is set for an explosive finale.
June 20, 2025
Omg this was even better than the first book. I am very impatiently waiting for the third book after that cliff hanger.
April 8, 2025
Now that Mira has made a bargain with the enigma that is Lord Elijah Tresillian of Ennor, her vow for vengeance against those who killed her father is even more fierce.
It’s only when her enemies attack her island of Rosevear, killing members of her village; that Elijah appears in her life again. With no home left standing, Mira travels with Elijah through the shadows to his castle home.
She learns that despite his grand home and title, Lord Tresillian is well-liked and respected and kind to his people. Saving many from her island home, she is in his debt. Not that he reminds her of it. In fact, she begins to see and admire this other side to him.
Mira is still struggling with her Siren heritage, especially after summoning a storm to save her island, then again in a dream. She feels she has little control over this power and is desperate to know more. Learning that Elijah has his own troubles with his past and power, brings them closer together.
Tension is rising however as Mira’s enemies have put a hunter on her tail, vowing what’s left of her island will be sacrificed if she doesn’t hand herself in. Elijah and his family and friends vow to fight for her and her people, knowing The Watch, Captain Renshaw and a Monster Hunter from a powerful witch coven must be stopped.
Mira increasingly struggles with her rising powers, her constant fight training and her feelings for Elijah whom she now calls Eli. But her island must always come first.
The 2nd in this trilogy after Compass and Blade, Shadow and Tide allows us to learn more about Mira’s powers and her past, and Lord Tresillian’s struggles with his own problems. The building tension between them is sizzling and the battle scenes exhilarating.
There are many characters to keep track of, but worth doing so as loyalties bend and snap, and the body count builds. I feel this falls in the ‘necessary middle book’ category for a series because besides the many battles and creatures leaping off the pages, the plot starts and finishes in the same place – vowing vengeance, albeit with new forces on their side.
Much looking forward to the conclusion novel though. If Shadow and Tide is anything to go by, it will be a powerful, angst ridden, racing romance, battle scared, monster screaming read!
Age – 14+
It’s only when her enemies attack her island of Rosevear, killing members of her village; that Elijah appears in her life again. With no home left standing, Mira travels with Elijah through the shadows to his castle home.
She learns that despite his grand home and title, Lord Tresillian is well-liked and respected and kind to his people. Saving many from her island home, she is in his debt. Not that he reminds her of it. In fact, she begins to see and admire this other side to him.
Mira is still struggling with her Siren heritage, especially after summoning a storm to save her island, then again in a dream. She feels she has little control over this power and is desperate to know more. Learning that Elijah has his own troubles with his past and power, brings them closer together.
Tension is rising however as Mira’s enemies have put a hunter on her tail, vowing what’s left of her island will be sacrificed if she doesn’t hand herself in. Elijah and his family and friends vow to fight for her and her people, knowing The Watch, Captain Renshaw and a Monster Hunter from a powerful witch coven must be stopped.
Mira increasingly struggles with her rising powers, her constant fight training and her feelings for Elijah whom she now calls Eli. But her island must always come first.
The 2nd in this trilogy after Compass and Blade, Shadow and Tide allows us to learn more about Mira’s powers and her past, and Lord Tresillian’s struggles with his own problems. The building tension between them is sizzling and the battle scenes exhilarating.
There are many characters to keep track of, but worth doing so as loyalties bend and snap, and the body count builds. I feel this falls in the ‘necessary middle book’ category for a series because besides the many battles and creatures leaping off the pages, the plot starts and finishes in the same place – vowing vengeance, albeit with new forces on their side.
Much looking forward to the conclusion novel though. If Shadow and Tide is anything to go by, it will be a powerful, angst ridden, racing romance, battle scared, monster screaming read!
Age – 14+
February 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 4.25 stars
Shadow and Tide is the second book in the trilogy and continues after the events of Compass and Blade
Beware of spoilers for the previous book!
Compass and Blade Review | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I won an ARC of this book at YALC last year, not knowing it was a second book in the series hehe. But having enjoyed Compass and Blade earlier this month I was excited to dive into this book!
The book truly opens with a banger, and I’m immediately brought back to the characters, the world, and the stakes in it! I really enjoyed the opening like this, as it’s a great way to be sucked in right away. Action-packed from start to finish!
The writing style, just like the first, makes it super easy to read and I breezed through the book! I loved the expansion of the world, with especially the magic being more potent in this book and the witches as well! We meet a few new characters, but especially Brielle, who has her own POV in this book as well! I loved that.
Mira is still soooo loyal to those she loves and will go to great lengths to protect them! Those lengths as really shown in this book, as she sacrifices a great deal to do so! Knowing how the book ended really had me crossing my fingers for her.
I was a fan of the romance and the feelings that developed between her and Eli! I like him so much more than Seth and had hoped from book 1 that she would end up with him! While it is very much a subplot, I liked how it tied into the main story!
The ending, well I didn’t really expect that to happen! It took me by surprise in a good way. I liked the progression and how it builds up to that ending. The stakes are the highest they’ve been and with that epilogue, I’m excited to see what book 3 will bring!
Overall, Shadow and Tide is a great continuation of the series, where new characters are introduced, and the stage is set for the big bang in the next book.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book!
Shadow and Tide is the second book in the trilogy and continues after the events of Compass and Blade
“It is better to love, to trust and open your heart, better to risk losing everything than stay closed and cold and never love at all.”
Beware of spoilers for the previous book!
Compass and Blade Review | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I won an ARC of this book at YALC last year, not knowing it was a second book in the series hehe. But having enjoyed Compass and Blade earlier this month I was excited to dive into this book!
The book truly opens with a banger, and I’m immediately brought back to the characters, the world, and the stakes in it! I really enjoyed the opening like this, as it’s a great way to be sucked in right away. Action-packed from start to finish!
The writing style, just like the first, makes it super easy to read and I breezed through the book! I loved the expansion of the world, with especially the magic being more potent in this book and the witches as well! We meet a few new characters, but especially Brielle, who has her own POV in this book as well! I loved that.
Mira is still soooo loyal to those she loves and will go to great lengths to protect them! Those lengths as really shown in this book, as she sacrifices a great deal to do so! Knowing how the book ended really had me crossing my fingers for her.
I was a fan of the romance and the feelings that developed between her and Eli! I like him so much more than Seth and had hoped from book 1 that she would end up with him! While it is very much a subplot, I liked how it tied into the main story!
The ending, well I didn’t really expect that to happen! It took me by surprise in a good way. I liked the progression and how it builds up to that ending. The stakes are the highest they’ve been and with that epilogue, I’m excited to see what book 3 will bring!
Overall, Shadow and Tide is a great continuation of the series, where new characters are introduced, and the stage is set for the big bang in the next book.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book!
February 21, 2025
One month after the events of Shadow and Tide, Mira finds herself on Rosevear, haunted and unmoored. When the watch strike, burning her home to the ground, Mira teams up with Elijah, calling in her bargain to discover more about her abilities and destroy Captain Renshaw and the watch. To do so, she’ll need the help of both her friends and the witches. Meanwhile at Coven Septern, Hunter Brielle is tasked with her next assignment – a seemingly human girl. To the ruling council, Mira is a monster. But just what do they want her for?
Wow, what a sequel! The book was action-packed right from the start, drawing me in and reminding me just why I was so invested in these characters. I was once again drawn into Mira’s story, willing the Rosevear islanders on as they found themselves beset by yet another tragedy.
This book saw an expansion of the world-building, introducing us to both new locations and new characters. The witches featured heavily with a new (third-person) POV from Brielle. While I did find this a bit difficult to get into initially, I really appreciated it as a counterpoint to Mira’s perspective and it was itself a useful worldbuilding tool. Beyond Brielle, we were introduced to a whole host of other characters, all of whom had unique personalities and really added to the story.
From our returning characters, we got more of Eli’s backstory, and an insight into the struggles he has faced. I’m excited to see more of his development in the next book. The relationship between Mira and Eli was also so sweet and really well developed with tenderness and depth.
Having started so strongly, the action continued throughout, although perhaps in slightly too many individual instances. There did feel like there was some disconnect between moments of action and the slightly slower-paced moments of ‘calm’ between those periods of high intensity. The ending though… just wow. I am sat here on tenterhooks once again waiting for the next book. A really solid sequel in a fantastic series.
Thank you to Harper Collins UK via Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review ahead of publication.
Wow, what a sequel! The book was action-packed right from the start, drawing me in and reminding me just why I was so invested in these characters. I was once again drawn into Mira’s story, willing the Rosevear islanders on as they found themselves beset by yet another tragedy.
This book saw an expansion of the world-building, introducing us to both new locations and new characters. The witches featured heavily with a new (third-person) POV from Brielle. While I did find this a bit difficult to get into initially, I really appreciated it as a counterpoint to Mira’s perspective and it was itself a useful worldbuilding tool. Beyond Brielle, we were introduced to a whole host of other characters, all of whom had unique personalities and really added to the story.
From our returning characters, we got more of Eli’s backstory, and an insight into the struggles he has faced. I’m excited to see more of his development in the next book. The relationship between Mira and Eli was also so sweet and really well developed with tenderness and depth.
Having started so strongly, the action continued throughout, although perhaps in slightly too many individual instances. There did feel like there was some disconnect between moments of action and the slightly slower-paced moments of ‘calm’ between those periods of high intensity. The ending though… just wow. I am sat here on tenterhooks once again waiting for the next book. A really solid sequel in a fantastic series.
Thank you to Harper Collins UK via Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review ahead of publication.
August 24, 2025
𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘: 𝑺𝒉𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒘 & 𝑻𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝒃𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒍 𝑮𝒓𝒆𝒆𝒏𝒍𝒂𝒘 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘥 𝘶𝘱, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘵, 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘩.
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩:
𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘺, 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸 & 𝘛𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘶𝘦𝘴 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢’𝘴 𝘫𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘺 𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘴𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘯𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘴, 𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘣𝘦𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘴. 𝘈𝘴 𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦, 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘴. 🌊✨
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙:
⚓ 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘌𝘭𝘪𝘫𝘢𝘩’𝘴 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘸 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢 𝘩𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵. 𝘐 𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘮 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢, 𝘢𝘥𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺.
🔮 𝘓𝘰𝘸𝘳𝘪, 𝘢 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘢 𝘭𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘰𝘺𝘦𝘥.
🏹 𝘎𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘗𝘖𝘝 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘉𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦, 𝘢 𝘩𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢, 𝘢𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘬𝘦𝘱𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨.
🌊 𝘞𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢’𝘴 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘨𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘢, 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘩 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘦.
💘 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘌𝘭𝘪 𝘢𝘣𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵. 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘱 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘌𝘭𝘪𝘫𝘢𝘩'𝘴 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬, 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳.
🤝 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘶𝘭. 𝘐 𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘴𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘞𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯, 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘤𝘩 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘪𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭-𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘨𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘸𝘢𝘺.
𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸 & 𝘛𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘐 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘵. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘩𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘦𝘳, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘭𝘺. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵, 𝘢𝘵𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘱𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘤, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐’𝘮 𝘢𝘭𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘭 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘥𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥.
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘥 𝘶𝘱, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘵, 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘩.
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩:
𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘺, 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸 & 𝘛𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘶𝘦𝘴 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢’𝘴 𝘫𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘺 𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘴𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘯𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘴, 𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘣𝘦𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘴. 𝘈𝘴 𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦, 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘴. 🌊✨
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙:
⚓ 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘌𝘭𝘪𝘫𝘢𝘩’𝘴 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘸 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢 𝘩𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵. 𝘐 𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘮 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢, 𝘢𝘥𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺.
🔮 𝘓𝘰𝘸𝘳𝘪, 𝘢 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘢 𝘭𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘰𝘺𝘦𝘥.
🏹 𝘎𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘗𝘖𝘝 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘉𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦, 𝘢 𝘩𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢, 𝘢𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘬𝘦𝘱𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨.
🌊 𝘞𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢’𝘴 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘨𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘢, 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘩 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘦.
💘 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘌𝘭𝘪 𝘢𝘣𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵. 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘱 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘌𝘭𝘪𝘫𝘢𝘩'𝘴 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬, 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳.
🤝 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘶𝘭. 𝘐 𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘴𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘞𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯, 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘤𝘩 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘪𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭-𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘨𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘸𝘢𝘺.
𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸 & 𝘛𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘐 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘵. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘩𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘦𝘳, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘭𝘺. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵, 𝘢𝘵𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘱𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘤, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐’𝘮 𝘢𝘭𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘭 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘥𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥.
August 25, 2025
I have quite a few weak spots when it comes to books and reading. Of course I easily fall for a pretty cover, especially combined with sprayed edges. The cover of the first book was already pretty, but I think this cover looks even better! I also love love love stories about Sirens.
Luckily I did enjoy this second book a little more than the first book. That's mainly because there is not a lot of Seth in this book. I normally do my very best to understand characters, but Seth really got on my nerves and I was kinda sad he survived the first book. It's also because it feels like our heroine is a little less dumb. She now understands that the world doesn't always want what's best for her and that she can't trust any pretty face she meets.
Unfortunately the plot didn't get much better. This book seemed to be all over the place. All our heroine wanted was to protect her isle and its people, all the villains wanted was to capture her alive for whatever purpose. We never understand what this is all about. I imagine the author wants to keep it a secret, so all can be revealed in the third book, but therefore it was unclear what was at stake, what are we fighting for, what future are we fighting for, what is the end goal?
There is also a lot of cool lore added, but I'm really wondering if combining all this in one story works in this case. The chapters from Brielle's point of view were the most interesting ones of the story, but also that storyline lacked direction. And despite the beautiful writing, the author really has a knack for writing the most pretty sentences, I still couldn't care less about any of these characters. Something is lacking to give me the feeling I know them and root for them. I just don't know what.
However, it's kinda clear that I won't be reading the third book in this series. No matter how pretty the cover will be.
Luckily I did enjoy this second book a little more than the first book. That's mainly because there is not a lot of Seth in this book. I normally do my very best to understand characters, but Seth really got on my nerves and I was kinda sad he survived the first book. It's also because it feels like our heroine is a little less dumb. She now understands that the world doesn't always want what's best for her and that she can't trust any pretty face she meets.
Unfortunately the plot didn't get much better. This book seemed to be all over the place. All our heroine wanted was to protect her isle and its people, all the villains wanted was to capture her alive for whatever purpose. We never understand what this is all about. I imagine the author wants to keep it a secret, so all can be revealed in the third book, but therefore it was unclear what was at stake, what are we fighting for, what future are we fighting for, what is the end goal?
There is also a lot of cool lore added, but I'm really wondering if combining all this in one story works in this case. The chapters from Brielle's point of view were the most interesting ones of the story, but also that storyline lacked direction. And despite the beautiful writing, the author really has a knack for writing the most pretty sentences, I still couldn't care less about any of these characters. Something is lacking to give me the feeling I know them and root for them. I just don't know what.
However, it's kinda clear that I won't be reading the third book in this series. No matter how pretty the cover will be.
May 16, 2025
A fast paced and adventurous sequel, yet seems to lose the charm of the first book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the e-ARC.
Following on from Compass and Blade, Mira knows it’s time to call in her bargain with Elijah, and tear down Captain Renshaw and the watch. She turns to the witches for help, yet they are the very coven who have accepted a deal to capture her.
Whilst I enjoyed Compass and Blade, I was hoping for more with its sequel and was sadly let down. Much of this story was predictable and felt like so many other YA fantasies, with less emphasis on sea-faring adventures; instead we got training with daggers, lacklustre villains and lukewarm sexual tension. Renshaw is still very much a threatening presence, yet we now meet a witch coven leader who appears to have the same personality and disdain for her offspring than the captain.
I also felt there were several convenient plot points, for example Renshaw suddenly doesn't need Mira to read the map, she found some witches that can reveal it to her. This made the story feel like a messy afterthought. I didn't really care about any of the characters by the end.
What I did enjoy was the additional pov for Brielle, the hunter assigned to capture Mira. I would have liked more of her backstory, and enjoyed her relationships with the various other characters.
The story is perhaps too YA for my current tastes, so if you enjoy the themes or you're a younger reader, this might be a decent fantasy series to pick up.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the e-ARC.
Following on from Compass and Blade, Mira knows it’s time to call in her bargain with Elijah, and tear down Captain Renshaw and the watch. She turns to the witches for help, yet they are the very coven who have accepted a deal to capture her.
Whilst I enjoyed Compass and Blade, I was hoping for more with its sequel and was sadly let down. Much of this story was predictable and felt like so many other YA fantasies, with less emphasis on sea-faring adventures; instead we got training with daggers, lacklustre villains and lukewarm sexual tension. Renshaw is still very much a threatening presence, yet we now meet a witch coven leader who appears to have the same personality and disdain for her offspring than the captain.
I also felt there were several convenient plot points, for example Renshaw suddenly doesn't need Mira to read the map, she found some witches that can reveal it to her. This made the story feel like a messy afterthought. I didn't really care about any of the characters by the end.
What I did enjoy was the additional pov for Brielle, the hunter assigned to capture Mira. I would have liked more of her backstory, and enjoyed her relationships with the various other characters.
The story is perhaps too YA for my current tastes, so if you enjoy the themes or you're a younger reader, this might be a decent fantasy series to pick up.
January 5, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins for the chance to review this book.
I wasn’t a fan of the first book but after reading the second book I have changed my mind!
The worldbuilding continues to expand in this book, we get introduced to more monsters, places and people.
I loved the dual pov between Mira and Brielle especially with their encounters. Mira’s character continues to grow both in her relationships between characters, her feelings, views and as she figures out who she is.
Plus I loved seeing more of Elijah and his story as we see his struggles and his family relations.
The corruption in the politics and the supposed neutral covens was well done and the fact that the council don’t want magic unless it’s in their own hands.
There were some points where it felt like we were told loads of things rather than actually being shown.
The romance was so sweet and had me at the start wondering if it will or won’t happen.
I was worried a bit with the introduction of the witches thinking that it may take away the sirens and Mira’s journey but it didn’t and I loved how they were interlinked.
I couldn’t put the book down and after that ending I’m excited and needing the next book.
I wasn’t a fan of the first book but after reading the second book I have changed my mind!
The worldbuilding continues to expand in this book, we get introduced to more monsters, places and people.
I loved the dual pov between Mira and Brielle especially with their encounters. Mira’s character continues to grow both in her relationships between characters, her feelings, views and as she figures out who she is.
Plus I loved seeing more of Elijah and his story as we see his struggles and his family relations.
The corruption in the politics and the supposed neutral covens was well done and the fact that the council don’t want magic unless it’s in their own hands.
There were some points where it felt like we were told loads of things rather than actually being shown.
The romance was so sweet and had me at the start wondering if it will or won’t happen.
I was worried a bit with the introduction of the witches thinking that it may take away the sirens and Mira’s journey but it didn’t and I loved how they were interlinked.
I couldn’t put the book down and after that ending I’m excited and needing the next book.
March 4, 2025
I read Compass and Blade probably a year or so ago so I struggled a little bit to remember some of its plot when I picked up Shadow and Tide and I think I would have enjoyed more had I read book 1 and 2 one after the other - so that’s my main advice! I really struggle with reviewing 2nd/etc books in trilogies/series as I am always scared of spoiling it out so here we go:
In Shadow and Tide we pick up pretty much a year after the end of Compass and Blade and we are throw straight back into the fast paced action of the plot! Mira has lost a lot, been back stabbed and now has this whole new power she doesn’t even know where it begins and ends and to make things trickier, not only Captain Renshaw but also the Watch is coming for her. She is now a wanted creature! I feel that this book was more about her finding out about her history, about her powers and about sirens in general which was quite interesting! We are also introduced to other magical entities, like the witches, and how the politics actually work in the great scheme of things!
I also would like to say that I am very glad Seth was not the end game.
Many thanks to the publisher for the review copy! All opinions are my own!
In Shadow and Tide we pick up pretty much a year after the end of Compass and Blade and we are throw straight back into the fast paced action of the plot! Mira has lost a lot, been back stabbed and now has this whole new power she doesn’t even know where it begins and ends and to make things trickier, not only Captain Renshaw but also the Watch is coming for her. She is now a wanted creature! I feel that this book was more about her finding out about her history, about her powers and about sirens in general which was quite interesting! We are also introduced to other magical entities, like the witches, and how the politics actually work in the great scheme of things!
I also would like to say that I am very glad Seth was not the end game.
Many thanks to the publisher for the review copy! All opinions are my own!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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