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Elemental Origins: Water's Gambit

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Refreshing and unique Romantasy! In the world of Elementia the four elements of Water, Earth, Air and Fire provide life and balance to all who live there. Dive in and join Naya, a water elemental, on her journey as she searches for love and meaning to her life. Determined to control her own fate and reach for her dreams in spite of the restrictions placed upon her kind.

When she meets Cal, her fate is irrevocably changed and a new destiny awaits her; if she dares to take a chance. After making her rebellious gambit, the question remains. . . . will her choice upset the balance of Elementia, or will she bring more life and unity to them all?

“To answer your question, yes, let’s seal our deal in the nymph way. Let’s seal it with a kiss.” ~ Naya

“The kiss was sweet, intoxicating, and terrifying all at the same time, for he was under water and couldn’t breathe.” ~ Cal

If you love romance, elemental magic and magical creatures then this book is for you!

What readers are

"Refreshing and unique romantasy read!" ~ D.

"The story captivates from the very beginning, sparking curiosity and the desire to explore Elementia." ~ Eirediam (GoodReads)

"An immersive world building and sensual experience that will make you turn one page after the other. Prepare yourself to meet new friends, to see how deeply love can go through fearful challenges and to discover new secrets about a foreign world. It was worth more than sleep! ~ Ana Maria (GoodReads)

"This man (Cal) is so sweet he makes my teeth ache." ~ That Romance Guy (Amazon review)

"Such a beautifully written story, I consumed this book and couldn't put it down. Twists and turns kept me mesmerized. The romance journey was utterly thrilling to watch unfold." ~ Catherine (GoodReads)



Forbidden LoveFound FamilyCinnamon Roll MMC Magical dragons & more!Elemental MagicGods and GoddessesMagical TrialsBargainsStand each book is a new couple

544 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 24, 2024

26 people are currently reading
154 people want to read

About the author

Sarah Adina

2 books8 followers
Sarah is the author of the Elemental Origins series and the creator of the world of Elementia. She has also published a short story, “Verdant Dreams” and posts fun stories on her Patreon from time to time. 
Growing up, Sarah always had an active imagination telling stories through words and art. Often found daydreaming of new worlds, magic and adventure, her loving husband helps keep her grounded and in this realm (otherwise she might fly away or slip through a portal somewhere). She has one sweet, adorable dog( a mastiff), loves to paint and watch movies when she’s not writing.

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5 stars
22 (66%)
4 stars
4 (12%)
3 stars
5 (15%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
2 (6%)
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Profile Image for Kelly McNee.
2 reviews4 followers
September 26, 2024
An enchanting adventure and memorable journey not to be missed! A beautiful read with twists and turns that played with and stole my heart: A captivating romantic fantasy rollercoaster! …

… From the moment I opened the book I was swept away into a rich, detailed, beautiful world full of enchanting characters.

As I dived deeper I fell more and more in love with everyone I met, including the incredibly endearing creatures and the many wonderful diverse characters. By the end I had been on such a journey, which captured my heart in ways I wasn’t expecting.

Along the way I experienced many waves of emotion; feeling much joy, heartbreak, laughter, passion, and of course love. Every chapter was so beautifully written and had me totally captivated, pulling me in and enriching my reading experience with every turn of the page.

I was mesmerised by Elementia and delighted in everything I could learn about it as the story progressed.

Naya and Cal’s romance is a well explored whirlwind of passion, hurt, fun, tears, fear and hope, it’s immensely satisfying and intoxicating to follow. The story is filled with adventures, twists and turns that I’m so glad I haven’t missed out on!

I couldn’t recommend reading this highly enough, there is something within Water’s Gambit for everyone to relate to and many characters that you can completely adore and feel forever connected to.

Go and encounter the extremely lovable Naya and Cal, and their bewitching friends in the charming world of Elementia. Like me become incurably infatuated and get lost in a remarkable, memorable, unique tale that will steal your heart and stay with you long after the book is closed. It’s pure magic!
Profile Image for Dana 🦋.
273 reviews4 followers
November 22, 2024
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 2🌶

Format: E-book 📱

Favorite Quote: But no matter how much you try to make me forget, I’m stubborn — and you’re unforgettable. I’ll never forget you Naya, my goddess. My sea blossom… I’ll love you forever,”

This book follows the beautiful journey of Naya & Cal.
Naya is a water nymph who wants so badly to be a mother. Her dilemma? There are no male water nymphs so no way for her to get pregnant. So what does she do? Pick a handsome human and offer him a deal he couldn't refuse.

Thus beginning the amazing adventure into Cal learning about the nymphs, their home, their culture, their customs and traditions, Cal going through trials to prove that he's worthy of fathering Naya's children and Cal & Naya's journey of falling in love.

This story is so amazingly told from start to finish I was at the edge of my seat, cheering Cal on while he learned how to use water magic, laughing at Axel's cock blocking tendencies & cheering Naya on as she gave birth. This book was adventurous, loving and even heart breaking at times.

And the lore? Oh my goodness! It's absolutely beautiful 💕 I highly recommend you check this book out! It's this author's debut and I must say it was spectacular. I can't wait for book 2!!
Profile Image for C.W. Rose.
Author 2 books136 followers
May 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this epic love story, that’s also a merfolk origin story! This is the tale of a water elemental, and nymph who is immortal and starts to long for a life different than the one she’s always known, and the consequences on her world of Elementia when she acts on it.

I loved reading about water elemental Naya and human Cal’s budding, spicy and sweet romance. They do fall in lust > love quickly, but I felt that worked for the trajectory of this particular story. The worldbuilding is phenomenal and it really made me feel as if I was in their undersea and land worlds with them. Cal and Naya are both well fleshed out characters with clear motivations. I also loved the soul-animals and now need a mer-dog or mer-dragon in my life! And Naya’s family is so fun to read about.

The last 30% takes on a more somber tone, but not to worry, there is a happy ending. And PS if you haven’t seen the character art of this book? It’s absolutely beautiful.
Profile Image for Dana.
127 reviews1 follower
April 3, 2025
An unforgettable and captivating adventure awaits you, dive into the novel that is Elemental Origins: Water's Gambit

Prepare to be immersed in a world full of magic, wonder, adventure, and captivating romance, that will leave you tears.

The writing is both beautiful and emotionally impactful, Adina did an amazing job bringing the world of Elementia to life with rich detail and incredible world-building.

Prepare to experience a rollercoaster of emotions as you witness the captivating love story of Cal and Naya.
Profile Image for Jocelyn Everlie.
1 review2 followers
September 28, 2024
A beautiful, fun, heartwarming read! Such a vibrant, intricate world sparkling with magic, where at every turn, emotions rise and flow as the tides. The story starts out simple: with Naya, a nymph curious to explore and chase her dreams. Soon readers are taken on a breathtaking journey, along with so many memorable characters, discovering what it really means to fight for love, and truly learn what building a genuine soul family is all about, despite all the odds. This tale has it all—high fantasy, enthralling romance, in a captivating and lyrical writing style, and best of all, adorable, sassy, and precious underwater creatures! A wonderful unique addition to the mythology of nymphs and origin story of mermaids! You won’t want to miss this novel!! —@icequeens _art, ARC reader
Profile Image for Catherine Leigh.
1,516 reviews7 followers
September 28, 2024
Such a beautifully written story, I consumed this book.
The detail and emotion written into the storyline has me completely captivated and the real world fading into the back ground - I can say hand in heart that I was up until 3am reading this, I couldn’t put it down.
The twists and turns kept me mesmerised, the characters were incredible and had depth.
This book took me on a roller coaster ride of emotions, I laughed out loud, was almost in tears, then jumping for joy and on the edge of my chair with worry - absolutely brilliant.
The romance journey was utterly thrilling to watch unfold.
Overall a fantastic book set in an incredible world with amazing characters.
Profile Image for Audra Wisehart.
4 reviews
March 30, 2025
Water’s Gambit offers a uniquely imaginative world with rich, whimsical world-building that immediately sets it apart. The setting and tone feels like a blend of fairytale charm and anime flair—chipper, campy, and colorful in a way that takes some getting used to, but ultimately adds to the book’s distinct voice.

Where I felt the book could have been improved is in character development and pacing. Early on, motivations are difficult to grasp, and some character decisions—like Cal’s impulsive acceptance of a life changing deal without asking basic questions—feel forced or unrealistic. This speaks to the characters love of adventure and go-with-the-flow attitudes, however, and has a place within this story. Relationships, too, develop too quickly to feel earned, echoing a classic Disney-style insta-love without the emotional depth to back it up.

That said, patience pays off. Around the 250-page mark, the main characters begin to show more depth, and by the end, their family dynamic feels heartfelt and genuine. The omniscient narration and constant perspective shifts can be confusing at times, making it hard to stay grounded in the story. Pacing also fluctuates—starting slow and later jumping through time rapidly, which initially makes the plot feel scattered. But by the novel’s end, these choices come together in a way that makes the journey feel intentional, even satisfying.

While not without flaws, Water’s Gambit is an ambitious, stylistically bold read that ultimately delivers a touching, if unconventional, payoff. I look forward to reading Book 2 featuring more of this world and new characters!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jazzy Mermaid .
143 reviews12 followers
June 25, 2025
This book was definitely incredible for my mermaid soul and way out of my dedication to dark romances. This is a contemporary romantasy with elements of magic, trails, emotion and artistic nods to grief, family and self awareness. The comedic MMC Cal always has something to say in his mind that definitely made me cackle. The rebellious FMC Naya definitely learns a few things along the way as she has much to learn while teaching Cal. The Soul bonded animals are quiet refreshing to seeing so many personalities in animal forms. Although some sisters were written as side characters, they feel like main characters without their own POV. At this point I want a soul bond water dragon and want to visit Regala.

What an amazing adventure that has me curious about what happens next in Elementia.

✨️📚✨️
Profile Image for Reading_with_AAron.
221 reviews21 followers
December 13, 2025
Oh my Atlantra! The way this book had me in a chokehold, I was eating it up! Sarah Adina wrote an epic water nymph x human fantasy romance that had me on the edge of my seat last night. I laughed at Axel’s cock blocking ways, Delia’s flirtatious charms, Rosies’s exuberance, and Naya’s jealousy. I was a blubbering mess at one point in this story but I am so happy that it ended the way it did.

Naya and Cal are so cute together, I loved getting to experience their journey together each other.

If you like magic systems, nymphs, mermaids, dryads, and humans then you definitely want to add this to your TBR!
Profile Image for Mandy Enchantedbookduo.
157 reviews15 followers
August 10, 2025
5 💎
2 🌶️

🪽This story wraps you up in a blanket, beside a warm fire and then BAM throws an emotional blizzard at you. It is a fantasy epic love story 🩵✨🩵✨

📘The intricate details about the world really enabled me to bury myself in the book
📘Cal has just so much Sass, loved hearing his internal monologue. He has some deep moments throughout the book that really allow you to understand his motivations.
📘Naya is the powerful Nymph demi-goddess, and her strong will to follow her dreams despite what the consequences might be is inspiring.
📘At the beginning I thought they were going to just get to the spicy straight away but then the slow burn began and wow the tension that was built and built and built…….
📘The overlap with the multiple POV was done so well, was just the right amount to understand what each of the characters were thinking, in different situations.
📘The side characters in this story are woven in so well to form such powerful bonds with the MC’s.
📘The broader world is so intriguing and I cannot wait for the next books in the series

🍷But no matter how much you try to make me forget, I’m stubborn – and you’re unforgettable. I’ll never forget you now, my goddess. My sea blossom… I love you forever.
🍷I don’t know what I’ll do…stay strong Cal! Be brave, be fast, and think – you can do this! Naya silently urged, fear and hope swelling in her soul.
🍷Shit! What the hell…? Where are my legs…? Cal thrush his tail, instead of legs, reflexively in a panic. Wait a minute, where the hell is my d***?!
🍷.“Easy, my love,” he soothed, capturing her lips in another tender kiss. I’ve got you, I’m not going anywhere…”
🍷This is my gift for you to wear close to your heart… No matter what, you’ll always have me close…
🍷 for the first time in my entire existence I wish that I could stop the flow of time – freeze this moment and live in it forever… Naya lamented silently.
🍷Anywhere she goes, I will follow…
🍷Soon. Just a little bit longer and will be home. Nothing will separate us again. I won’t let it.

🧜🏻‍♀️Goddesses
🧜🏻‍♀️Found family
🧜🏻‍♀️Lost love
🧜🏻‍♀️Slow burn
🧜🏻‍♀️Magical creatures
🧜🏻‍♀️Mermaids/Nymphs
🧜🏻‍♀️Elemental magic
Profile Image for Books.and.chocolate.
2 reviews
February 8, 2025
What a beautiful, magical story! If you want a cozy, spicy escape, this book is for you!

The author created a stunning, fantastical world with lovable characters and magical sea creatures. The writing is deeply immersive and vivid, transporting you into the underwater world of Naya and Cal. Their love story is one for the ages. You will quickly get invested in their relationship and will laugh, cry, and hope along with them. You’ll fall in love with their love! You’ll also fall in love with all the characters (including the several side characters that greatly enhance the already wonderful story), as well as their pet companions.

I’m a sucker for a cinnamon roll MMC, and Cal did not disappoint! I also really liked the FMC, Naya, and could relate to her head-strong personality and passionate desire to control her own fate.

Reading this book was a very pleasant experience. It’s one that could put you in a great mood even after a not so great day. Don’t get me wrong, though, it still definitely pulls at your heart-strings at times. The ending was satisfying and well-executed, beautifully completing this epic adventure!

The writing flows smoothly and is very imaginative. I can’t wait to read more books set in this world!
Profile Image for Anaís (Ereidiam).
Author 2 books19 followers
May 1, 2025
This book is a journey filled with romance, friendship, and sensuality (spicy), set in a fascinating and intricately developed world. The author provides a detailed explanation of this universe's creation and its complex dynamics, from the roles of the Goddesses to the beings that inhabit it. Her writing style is engaging and captivating, pulling you in from the very first pages and sparking an insatiable curiosity to explore more of the mysterious realm of Elementia.

The narration stands out for its fluidity, and the vivid descriptions of the landscapes allow the reader to fully envision this world. Additionally, the new characters are charming, adding layers of warmth and depth to the story, while the immersive descriptions of the environment bring you deeply into this unique adventure.
Profile Image for Emily.
185 reviews
June 6, 2025
DNF 41%. No plot, no chemistry, no conflict. Extremely annoying characters with unrealistic motivations. Just a bunch of descriptions of things and over explaining everything. Random capitalised words, way too many italicised thoughts and way too many adverbs. Needs serious editing. Also one of my least favourite tropes: fmc jealous of random waitress who hits on the mmc 🙄🙄🙄
85 reviews
September 28, 2024
Whimsical adult fantasy tale with lots of adventure, magic and romance. Loved the magical creatures, elemental magic and lore behind mermaids. If you enjoy fun world building, elemental magic themes, on screen romance and writers like CL Wilson and Jacqueline Carey then this book is for you!
Profile Image for Kathleen White.
245 reviews6 followers
March 18, 2025
Wow amazing

Wow I loved the connected they had and how he had to prove to Naya and as they went through trails The love they had grew and they realized that and made an amazing life together omg its such a great book totally recommended cant wait for book 2 !!!!!!
Profile Image for Anamaria (Gioviia).
4 reviews1 follower
September 26, 2024
An immersive worldbuilding and a sensual experience that will make you turn the pages one after another. Prepare yourself to meet new friends, to see how deeply love can go through fearful challenges and to discover new secrets about a foreign world.

What to expect:
If you're searching for a good book with fated mates, meticulous world building , strong and determined FMC, sunny and brave MMC, found family, cute underwater pets and lots of romanticism... then this standalone is for you!
If you're a non-english speaker like me, you'll find this book so easy to follow in all aspects😉

Spice rating: 🌶🌶🌶🌶

My thoughts:
This book was worth more than sleep. In the middle-end of the book I kept reading because I wanted so badly to know how the story ended!! The last 10% of the book had me in a chokehold!
All unresolved issues are closed in this book, so you don't need to worry about it.
The ending left me breathless.

My physical copy is otw now so I can treasure it always until the next book launches. A must read for romantasy readers everywhere!!
I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
Profile Image for Ollie_Creates.
61 reviews
October 2, 2024
Beautiful Cover!

If you like to read about very detailed fairy tale like fantasy worlds, 3rd person POV, and most importantly, Mermaids - his book is for you! 🧜‍♀️

It was very well edited and I love all the fan art the author has shared!

The writing style can be improved a bit (there were modern words used when the characters lived in the past, and inner thoughts were a bit disjointed,in my opinion).

Overall, I’d give it a 3.5 stars!
13 reviews1 follower
April 7, 2025
This book is a must read! I devoured it! I love the world, Elementia, and all of its wonderful characters! Her writing is amazing and the story flowed as the main characters plunged into the new and exciting chapter in their lives! There were plenty of nail biting moments as well as romance! Naya and Cal will always have a special place in my heart!

I can't wait for book 2!!!
Profile Image for Carmel Bass.
Author 3 books4 followers
November 1, 2025
ahhhh this book. Oh my god, I loved it. The couple Naya and Cal, the deal, the MMC so bloody cute, and the twist. I nearly cried to my husband. Can't wait for the next one!
🧜‍♀️🧜‍♀️🧜‍♀️🧜‍♀️
Profile Image for Victoria | Readingwith-Wolves.
65 reviews1 follower
October 20, 2025
This book had me laughing crying and kicking my feet. If you are looking for a cozy read with raw moments that might bring you to tears then this is a read for you! The perfect read if you are looking for a heart warming fate defying romance.
Profile Image for Deanne Dietz.
Author 16 books79 followers
October 8, 2024
The details are so captivating in this book and it felt so good to read this after reading dark romance novels.
Naya and Cal's story is absolutely beautiful, and you will fall in love with these characters.

Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews

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