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A Song of Death and Desire: The Sirens of Witches Cove
Bound to sea, cursed to consume.
Such is the siren's tune.
Eat your food, make it fast,
And never let a human past.
Kairi has always longed for more—more than the cold depths of the ocean, more than the endless hunger raging inside her daily. When she spares Eagan, a man whose soul should have been hers, she breaks the oldest rule of her kind. Now, both are haunted—he by visions of a woman and a song he can't escape, and she by the desire to become what she can never be. In a world where love and death dance too closely, Kairi must face the price of defying fate while Eagan must uncover the truth before it consumes them both.
But can a love born of defiance ever truly escape the curse that binds it?
A Song of Death and Desire is a 18+ Little Mermaid Retelling and Paranormal Romance that follows the journey of a siren and the man she was supposed to kill. CW in the Author's Note.
Such is the siren's tune.
Eat your food, make it fast,
And never let a human past.
Kairi has always longed for more—more than the cold depths of the ocean, more than the endless hunger raging inside her daily. When she spares Eagan, a man whose soul should have been hers, she breaks the oldest rule of her kind. Now, both are haunted—he by visions of a woman and a song he can't escape, and she by the desire to become what she can never be. In a world where love and death dance too closely, Kairi must face the price of defying fate while Eagan must uncover the truth before it consumes them both.
But can a love born of defiance ever truly escape the curse that binds it?
A Song of Death and Desire is a 18+ Little Mermaid Retelling and Paranormal Romance that follows the journey of a siren and the man she was supposed to kill. CW in the Author's Note.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2025
12 people are currently reading
372 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
February 11, 2025
I couldn't put this fast-paced, well-structured book down. The plot follows the events of "Little Mermaid", it is in fact a paranormal romance retelling that follows the plot of the fairy tale, with adult romance elements. The thing I appreciated most were the dark tones of the story, well set, which added that extra bit to the setting that really drove me crazy. Present throughout the book, but accentuated in the parts set in the sea; I would have liked the life at sea, the life and everyday life of the mermaids to be explored in depth, I hope that in the second book these elements will be explored more. What above all makes this book magical is the author's writing style, which immediately captures you, which manages to make the atmospheres, settings and locations, the emotions of the characters shine through very well; even if in some chapters, especially towards the end, it becomes a bit hasty.
I loved both the main characters right away, especially Kairi. I found her courageous, resourceful, full of life and curiosity. I loved the more introspective chapters dedicated to Kairi, when she questions her mermaid nature and its relationship with her human nature. The relationship between Eagan and Kairi was beautiful, the attraction between them was immediately noticeable and I found their relationship very well developed. There is absolutely a need to mention two side characters that have intrigued me and that I can't wait to explore further: Raidne and Sierra. We definitely get to know Sierra better in this first book. She immediately gave me beautiful vibes and, in fact, she turned out to be my favorite character. Even though she was less present, I loved Raidne very much, definitely the character I'm most curious to learn more about and get to know better.
I loved both the main characters right away, especially Kairi. I found her courageous, resourceful, full of life and curiosity. I loved the more introspective chapters dedicated to Kairi, when she questions her mermaid nature and its relationship with her human nature. The relationship between Eagan and Kairi was beautiful, the attraction between them was immediately noticeable and I found their relationship very well developed. There is absolutely a need to mention two side characters that have intrigued me and that I can't wait to explore further: Raidne and Sierra. We definitely get to know Sierra better in this first book. She immediately gave me beautiful vibes and, in fact, she turned out to be my favorite character. Even though she was less present, I loved Raidne very much, definitely the character I'm most curious to learn more about and get to know better.
March 3, 2025
When I heard there was a dark retelling of The Little Mermaid with a hint of spice coming soon, I couldn’t wait to dive into the story. Bec Eden is bringing this retelling under the name of A Song of Death and Desire. I was excited to start reading, but what will this story bring?
Check out my full review on my blog Boekensteeg
Check out my full review on my blog Boekensteeg
February 8, 2025
Let me start by saying, I couldn’t put this book down! I really loved the story from start to finish. The way the characters came together and grew throughout the book felt natural, & I especially loved the dynamic between all the main and side characters and the chemistry that intertwined them all. There was enough going on to keep me guessing and invested. The book is advertised as a modern day little mermaid retelling, and I can definitely see how it inspired the story. I also really enjoyed the siren folklore and explanation of how they live. It was a cute storyline overall.
I am looking forward to continuing this series as it’s released.
I am looking forward to continuing this series as it’s released.
December 31, 2024
I liked the book, a 3.5 out of 5 stars for me! I think the take on the retelling of the little mermaid was well done - you could feel/catch some of the references or similarities but it was also its own story and I liked that distinction. I also really liked the way that the MMC grew throughout the book, his character arc was well executed and where I found him hard to like initially I grew you enjoy him. I do think the book is worth a read and romantasy lovers will be happy with this one!
The “negatives” for me was the pacing in some parts of the book (too slow to get to things in some areas vs getting to/through other plot points really quickly).
Overall a good read and I’m grateful for the chance to be part of the team to do an early read through.
The “negatives” for me was the pacing in some parts of the book (too slow to get to things in some areas vs getting to/through other plot points really quickly).
Overall a good read and I’m grateful for the chance to be part of the team to do an early read through.
February 12, 2025
Ohhh I just LOVED this! Depraved, starving little sirens!! So bloody. Add in witches and clueless, sexy mortal men and it’s a GOOD time! This also delivers on emotional turmoil and trauma. HIGHLY recommend!
March 25, 2025
Meet Kairi who yeans for more than just what the ocean offers. She spares the life of Eagan, breaking a rule of her kind. Both must suffer the consequences and the fallout of her actions
This romantasy is a modern retelling of the Little Mermaid with spice and is a captivating read. The fairy tale vibes and each character’s POV was fun to read and see how each is grappling with the fallout. It was a fun read that I didn’t want to put down.
This romantasy is a modern retelling of the Little Mermaid with spice and is a captivating read. The fairy tale vibes and each character’s POV was fun to read and see how each is grappling with the fallout. It was a fun read that I didn’t want to put down.
February 19, 2025
4 ⭐️, 3 spicy 🌶️
A really good dark retelling of The Little Mermaid.
I loved that the Mermaid was dark and a siren along with what they had to do to live.
Kairi wanted to visit the human realm more and more especially after she saved Eagan from the other sirens when the boat he was on was destroyed. What Kairi does to live the life always wants more and more as she feels something is missing.
The twists are good to and the ending leave room for lots more stories to come.
Tropes – Dual POV, little mermaid, enemies to lovers, magical creatures, hidden world, small town romance,
Triggers – boating accident, alcohol, anxiety, cannibalism, control, graphic death, murder, nudity, pain, witches
A really good dark retelling of The Little Mermaid.
I loved that the Mermaid was dark and a siren along with what they had to do to live.
Kairi wanted to visit the human realm more and more especially after she saved Eagan from the other sirens when the boat he was on was destroyed. What Kairi does to live the life always wants more and more as she feels something is missing.
The twists are good to and the ending leave room for lots more stories to come.
Tropes – Dual POV, little mermaid, enemies to lovers, magical creatures, hidden world, small town romance,
Triggers – boating accident, alcohol, anxiety, cannibalism, control, graphic death, murder, nudity, pain, witches
February 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️.5/5
I simply didn’t want to put this book down it sucked me in immediately! A Song of Death and Desire is truly a magical read! This is one of the first books I’ve read with sirens in it and it did not disappoint! It really gave me little mermaid vibes but make it spicy and add a twist! The main characters Kairi and Eagan really have a piece of my heart. I absolutely can’t wait for book 2 in this series I just know the new characters and crazy plot will continue! I would definitely recommend picking this one up!
🌶️🌶️.5/5
I simply didn’t want to put this book down it sucked me in immediately! A Song of Death and Desire is truly a magical read! This is one of the first books I’ve read with sirens in it and it did not disappoint! It really gave me little mermaid vibes but make it spicy and add a twist! The main characters Kairi and Eagan really have a piece of my heart. I absolutely can’t wait for book 2 in this series I just know the new characters and crazy plot will continue! I would definitely recommend picking this one up!
March 26, 2025
For the love of fuck, if you’re going to self publish, at least use grammarly! It’s FREE and it will catch all of your ridiculous mistakes like farther vs. further and your blatant lack of capitalization and punctuation.
This started off as the most brilliant Little Mermaid retelling and then once she became human it became all about them having sex. So that was super disappointing. The ending was pretty anticlimactic but their chemistry and the first half was so good that I’ll keep it at three stars.
This started off as the most brilliant Little Mermaid retelling and then once she became human it became all about them having sex. So that was super disappointing. The ending was pretty anticlimactic but their chemistry and the first half was so good that I’ll keep it at three stars.
May 5, 2025
4 💎
2.5 🌶️
📓The start of this book was intense and thought bugger how am I going to love this main character?
📓 The exploration of the two main characters inner thoughts and motivations was fantastic.
📓 This pull that Eagan and Kairi had towards each other was articulated in the book so well.
📓 I know this is a retelling of the little mermaid, but I felt like it stands so separate and has so many real world layers.
🍷 “you’re going to be the death of me, vicious one,”
2.5 🌶️
📓The start of this book was intense and thought bugger how am I going to love this main character?
📓 The exploration of the two main characters inner thoughts and motivations was fantastic.
📓 This pull that Eagan and Kairi had towards each other was articulated in the book so well.
📓 I know this is a retelling of the little mermaid, but I felt like it stands so separate and has so many real world layers.
🍷 “you’re going to be the death of me, vicious one,”
February 8, 2025
This book was everything I wanted and needed it to be. Oh my gosh, I enjoyed ASODAD so much - from Bec's writing, the characters, the suspense, and OMG the spice (👌 perfection). The dedication was definitely spot-on and I am HIGHLY anticipating any and all future projects from Bec Eden.
January 22, 2025
The 'little mermaid loving child' in me was so super excited when I heard of this story and was even more excited to be lucky enough to be chosen to ARC read it.
I absolutely loved this book I went along for this emotional ride with both the MMC and the FMC and there were lots of emotions. I found the retelling great, the way she turned this story into the adult version with a few twists was really good. Bec you've written an amazing book and cannot wait to continue reading the stories of witches cove.
I absolutely loved this book I went along for this emotional ride with both the MMC and the FMC and there were lots of emotions. I found the retelling great, the way she turned this story into the adult version with a few twists was really good. Bec you've written an amazing book and cannot wait to continue reading the stories of witches cove.
February 21, 2025
Very fortunate to receive an ARC :) A fun Little Mermaid retelling meets modern fantasy spice! Bec does a great job at world building and bringing light to the darker side of sirens. The first chapter had me hooked, but the next few slowed down a bit and I had to push through exposition. I felt like they suffered from a case of “telling, not showing”. It was so much description of events, rather than the playing out. (Like “we fought today” as opposed to the fight happening on page.) It was as if I was reading diary entries. Not that that’s a bad thing, but I did find myself wanting action to play out more between Eagan and his ex. But once the two met, the pace picked up and I felt like I was witnessing the story! I was pretty hooked by the middle. I relished the unfolding of Kairi and Eagan’s relationship! While sometimes modern references make me cringe a bit, I didn’t quite mind. It wasn’t overwhelming to the story at all. I’m quite excited to read Raidne’s story next and see where Rylan’s plot takes us!
May 5, 2025
Prepare to be swept away to the magical seaside town of Witches Cove, where sirens and humans collide in Bec Eden’s enchanting debut “A Song of Death and Desire”!
This dark and spicy Little Mermaid retelling follows Kairi, a siren cursed with an uncontrollable hunger, and Eagan, the human whose soul she chooses to spare.
Their journey from enemies to lovers is electric, brimming with tension and just the right amount of spice. Eden masterfully crafts a narrative that’s both fast-paced and emotionally deep. The complex characters and unique portrayal of sirens - far from the sugar-coated sea creatures of traditional tales - create a captivating read that will keep you utterly invested.
For fans of romantasy and dark fairy tale retellings, this book is an absolute must-read. The chemistry between Kairi and Eagan is undeniable, their story lingering long after the final page
December 10, 2025
Wow! This book was not what I was expecting!! I’d give it a 4.5/5, so upped it to 5 on here. The little mermaid is my fave Disney movie and Eric my fave prince! I loved this retelling because it kept some of the core facts - how they looked especially - but with a twist I was not expecting!! I read the synopsis of this so long ago I kind of went in blind and I would tell you that’s the best way to do it! I read this book so quickly and was enthralled right from the very start! I am so looking forward to the next book!! While I haven’t read the novella the author gives at the end, I can already guess whose story is next and i can’t wait!! Really looking forward to the next book in the series!! I was given an arc copy of this book for an honest review.
January 9, 2025
Bound to sea, cursed to consume.
Such is the siren's tune.
Eat your food, make it fast,
And never let a human past.
Longing for more Kairi is tired of more than the cold depths of the ocean. She wants to leave the endless hunger and raging that is her daily life. And then she makes a mistake, she breaks the oldest rule of her kind, she saves the life of Eagan, his soul should have been hers for the taking, instead she saved him.
Eagan is now hunted, haunted by visions of a song and a woman he can never escape, no matter where he runs or what he does. Kairi is haunted by the desire to be what she can't become, be part of the world she can only dream of. To be part of a world where love, life, and death dance so very closely. Kairi has to face the price of defying the fates of saving Eagan. Eagan, on the other hand, has to uncover the truth of who saved him and why before everything unravels and that fire of truth burns them both.
A Song of Death and Desire by Bec Eden, a grown-up retelling of A Little Mermaid. I loved it. It was so well done. It was so stunningly beautiful and intoxicating and a bit dark all at the same time. This retelling just captivated me and held me in its grasp. And as someone who enjoys fairy tales about the villains, just not the traditional fairy tales, this was a deviation for me. This was a dark, seductive, classic, fascinating, complex story I could actually get behind.
Kairi as a heroine is a beautiful, fascinating, complex, amazing heroine. She's torn between this hunger that she find's is suddenly defining her existence and who she's always been. She wants more than she's always been, and she's not sure if she should want it. She's struggling internally, and it is such a poignant, raw, and relatable struggle.
Bec has woven this stunning tale of forbidden love inter-woven with defiance and fate. I so loved the chemistry that Bec wrote between Kairi and Eagen. It's masterful and was electric. You could just feel it, and the connection is fated, fraught with angst and tension. It's so perfect, rich, enticing, alluring, and everything that you could ever want in this kind of book.
Bec is not shy with the talking about the darker themes and how the stakes felt so very real just how weighty that really is. The curse that surrounds Kairi and Eagan adds just that extra layer of tragedy that makes the journey that much more gripping and evocative.
Reading this book, going on this journey with Kairi and Eagan will have you rooting for them even more, and you will find yourself dreading the consequences of their choices. And you will find yourself asking yourself if love can truly survive when it is born out of defiance and danger?
I really did enjoy this book, and if you are a fan of grown-up fairy tale retelling, then this is the book for you. A Song of Death and Desire is the 18+ PNR Little Mermaid retelling you never knew you were looking for. And it is chefs kiss perfect.
Such is the siren's tune.
Eat your food, make it fast,
And never let a human past.
Longing for more Kairi is tired of more than the cold depths of the ocean. She wants to leave the endless hunger and raging that is her daily life. And then she makes a mistake, she breaks the oldest rule of her kind, she saves the life of Eagan, his soul should have been hers for the taking, instead she saved him.
Eagan is now hunted, haunted by visions of a song and a woman he can never escape, no matter where he runs or what he does. Kairi is haunted by the desire to be what she can't become, be part of the world she can only dream of. To be part of a world where love, life, and death dance so very closely. Kairi has to face the price of defying the fates of saving Eagan. Eagan, on the other hand, has to uncover the truth of who saved him and why before everything unravels and that fire of truth burns them both.
A Song of Death and Desire by Bec Eden, a grown-up retelling of A Little Mermaid. I loved it. It was so well done. It was so stunningly beautiful and intoxicating and a bit dark all at the same time. This retelling just captivated me and held me in its grasp. And as someone who enjoys fairy tales about the villains, just not the traditional fairy tales, this was a deviation for me. This was a dark, seductive, classic, fascinating, complex story I could actually get behind.
Kairi as a heroine is a beautiful, fascinating, complex, amazing heroine. She's torn between this hunger that she find's is suddenly defining her existence and who she's always been. She wants more than she's always been, and she's not sure if she should want it. She's struggling internally, and it is such a poignant, raw, and relatable struggle.
Bec has woven this stunning tale of forbidden love inter-woven with defiance and fate. I so loved the chemistry that Bec wrote between Kairi and Eagen. It's masterful and was electric. You could just feel it, and the connection is fated, fraught with angst and tension. It's so perfect, rich, enticing, alluring, and everything that you could ever want in this kind of book.
Bec is not shy with the talking about the darker themes and how the stakes felt so very real just how weighty that really is. The curse that surrounds Kairi and Eagan adds just that extra layer of tragedy that makes the journey that much more gripping and evocative.
Reading this book, going on this journey with Kairi and Eagan will have you rooting for them even more, and you will find yourself dreading the consequences of their choices. And you will find yourself asking yourself if love can truly survive when it is born out of defiance and danger?
I really did enjoy this book, and if you are a fan of grown-up fairy tale retelling, then this is the book for you. A Song of Death and Desire is the 18+ PNR Little Mermaid retelling you never knew you were looking for. And it is chefs kiss perfect.
February 10, 2025
4⭐
3🌶️
A fantastic retelling of the classic Little Mermaid fairy tale with a deliciously dark twist!!
Reworking the fairy-tale to have the FMC being a siren and begin as the "evil" being and then having her own little redemption ARC was fantastic, and working the siren song into the initial manipulation and obsession that Eagan has with her was a great way of doing the insta-love trope without it feeling cheesy!
As with any dark romance, the value of a great nickname can never be underestimated and Eagan popping out with "vicious one" was perfection!
Kairi and Eagan were great main characters and were written in away that made each of them relatable. The emotions and mental health struggles were so well written about that I especially found myself being able to easily relate to Eagan while he was experiencing PTSD type symptoms while under the influence of the sirens song.
Sienna and Raidne were great side characters throughout the book and bought a nice dose of sass to the book with their banter!
The twist with that final chapter was a good one. I was not expecting that sudden change of POV and now there are so many avenues left open for the continuation of the series!
Tropes: Dual POV, Enemies to lovers, Insta love (done really well with incorporating the sirens song), Amnesia, small town romance, fated mates (never specifically mentioned but you definitely get that vibe), hidden world, magical creatures, reluctant hero, magical transformation, found family, classic story retelling, mythical creatures in the modern world, shapeshifters, superpowers, ancient evil awakens, Plot twist, loveable side characters, LGBTQIA+ rep.
Triggers: Abandonment issues, accident - boating, alcohol, anxiety, blood, bodily fluids, cannibalism (sirens eat people... sooo...), control, decapitation, drowning, dubious consent, fear, fighting, forced actions, graphic death, homicide, manipulation, memory problems, murder, nudity, pain, panic attacks, PTSD style symptoms, stabbing, threats, witches.
3🌶️
A fantastic retelling of the classic Little Mermaid fairy tale with a deliciously dark twist!!
Reworking the fairy-tale to have the FMC being a siren and begin as the "evil" being and then having her own little redemption ARC was fantastic, and working the siren song into the initial manipulation and obsession that Eagan has with her was a great way of doing the insta-love trope without it feeling cheesy!
As with any dark romance, the value of a great nickname can never be underestimated and Eagan popping out with "vicious one" was perfection!
Kairi and Eagan were great main characters and were written in away that made each of them relatable. The emotions and mental health struggles were so well written about that I especially found myself being able to easily relate to Eagan while he was experiencing PTSD type symptoms while under the influence of the sirens song.
Sienna and Raidne were great side characters throughout the book and bought a nice dose of sass to the book with their banter!
The twist with that final chapter was a good one. I was not expecting that sudden change of POV and now there are so many avenues left open for the continuation of the series!
Tropes: Dual POV, Enemies to lovers, Insta love (done really well with incorporating the sirens song), Amnesia, small town romance, fated mates (never specifically mentioned but you definitely get that vibe), hidden world, magical creatures, reluctant hero, magical transformation, found family, classic story retelling, mythical creatures in the modern world, shapeshifters, superpowers, ancient evil awakens, Plot twist, loveable side characters, LGBTQIA+ rep.
Triggers: Abandonment issues, accident - boating, alcohol, anxiety, blood, bodily fluids, cannibalism (sirens eat people... sooo...), control, decapitation, drowning, dubious consent, fear, fighting, forced actions, graphic death, homicide, manipulation, memory problems, murder, nudity, pain, panic attacks, PTSD style symptoms, stabbing, threats, witches.
September 7, 2025
Bound to sea, cursed to consume.
Such is the siren's tune.
Eat your food, make it fast,
And never let a human past.
Kairi, a siren bound by hunger and ancient rules, risks everything when she spares the soul of Eagan, a man she should have claimed. Now, Eagan is tormented by visions of a mysterious woman and her song, while Kairi struggles with a longing for a life she can never have. As love and fate collide, both must face the dangers of defiance, Eagan seeking the truth and Kairi confronting the price of breaking her kind’s oldest law. But in a world cursed by destiny, can their forbidden bond survive?
This was one of my first fairytale retellings, and I really enjoyed it. It’s based on The Little Mermaid, and I thought it was such a creative and engaging take on the story.
The plot was well done, with twists that kept me intrigued, and I loved how it set things up for the next book
The ending in particular was really strong and left me excited to continue the series. I especially hope we get to see more of the mermaids’ lives in book two, because I found them fascinating. It would be so cool to see how they spend their days in the ocean
The character dynamics were another highlight. The connections between all the characters felt natural, and I really enjoyed their interactions. Eagan’s reaction after finding out the truth about Kairi was especially well written, it felt so realistic and added depth to the story
The romance and spice were beautiful to read. The romance itself felt genuine and moving, while the spice was well written and balanced. I also really enjoyed the little hints we got from side characters, which added extra depth and made me curious to see where their stories might go
Overall, this was such a fun and heartfelt read, and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!
Such is the siren's tune.
Eat your food, make it fast,
And never let a human past.
Kairi, a siren bound by hunger and ancient rules, risks everything when she spares the soul of Eagan, a man she should have claimed. Now, Eagan is tormented by visions of a mysterious woman and her song, while Kairi struggles with a longing for a life she can never have. As love and fate collide, both must face the dangers of defiance, Eagan seeking the truth and Kairi confronting the price of breaking her kind’s oldest law. But in a world cursed by destiny, can their forbidden bond survive?
This was one of my first fairytale retellings, and I really enjoyed it. It’s based on The Little Mermaid, and I thought it was such a creative and engaging take on the story.
The plot was well done, with twists that kept me intrigued, and I loved how it set things up for the next book
The ending in particular was really strong and left me excited to continue the series. I especially hope we get to see more of the mermaids’ lives in book two, because I found them fascinating. It would be so cool to see how they spend their days in the ocean
The character dynamics were another highlight. The connections between all the characters felt natural, and I really enjoyed their interactions. Eagan’s reaction after finding out the truth about Kairi was especially well written, it felt so realistic and added depth to the story
The romance and spice were beautiful to read. The romance itself felt genuine and moving, while the spice was well written and balanced. I also really enjoyed the little hints we got from side characters, which added extra depth and made me curious to see where their stories might go
Overall, this was such a fun and heartfelt read, and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!
December 30, 2024
Bec Eden’s A Song of Death and Desire is a hauntingly beautiful and intoxicating retelling of The Little Mermaid that completely captivated me. As someone who adores retellings, this one stands out for its darker, more seductive take on the classic tale.
Kairi is a fascinating and complex heroine—a siren torn between the hunger that defines her existence and her yearning to be something more. Her internal struggle is poignant and raw, making her deeply relatable even as she inhabits a world so unlike our own. Eagan, haunted by visions of Kairi and a song he cannot escape, is the perfect counterpart to her—a human wrestling with forces beyond his comprehension, driven by a determination that is as compelling as it is heartbreaking.
Eden masterfully weaves a tale of forbidden love, defiance, and fate. The chemistry between Kairi and Eagan is electric, and their connection feels both fated and fraught with tension. The writing is lush and evocative, immersing you in the cold, mysterious depths of the sea and the enchanting, dangerous allure of the siren’s world.
This is a story that doesn’t shy away from its darker themes, and the stakes feel real and weighty. The curse that binds Kairi and Eagan adds a layer of tragedy that makes their journey even more gripping. Can love born out of defiance and danger truly survive? You’ll find yourself rooting for them even as you dread the consequences of their choices.
For readers who love paranormal romance, forbidden love, and retellings with an edge, A Song of Death and Desire is an absolute must read. It’s a beautifully written, darkly romantic tale that lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the last page.
Thank you to Bec Eden for the eARC of this book.
Kairi is a fascinating and complex heroine—a siren torn between the hunger that defines her existence and her yearning to be something more. Her internal struggle is poignant and raw, making her deeply relatable even as she inhabits a world so unlike our own. Eagan, haunted by visions of Kairi and a song he cannot escape, is the perfect counterpart to her—a human wrestling with forces beyond his comprehension, driven by a determination that is as compelling as it is heartbreaking.
Eden masterfully weaves a tale of forbidden love, defiance, and fate. The chemistry between Kairi and Eagan is electric, and their connection feels both fated and fraught with tension. The writing is lush and evocative, immersing you in the cold, mysterious depths of the sea and the enchanting, dangerous allure of the siren’s world.
This is a story that doesn’t shy away from its darker themes, and the stakes feel real and weighty. The curse that binds Kairi and Eagan adds a layer of tragedy that makes their journey even more gripping. Can love born out of defiance and danger truly survive? You’ll find yourself rooting for them even as you dread the consequences of their choices.
For readers who love paranormal romance, forbidden love, and retellings with an edge, A Song of Death and Desire is an absolute must read. It’s a beautifully written, darkly romantic tale that lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the last page.
Thank you to Bec Eden for the eARC of this book.
February 21, 2025
STARTED OFF STRONG, BUT DISINTEGRATED INTO A RUSHED AND ANTI-CLIMACTIC ENDING. If this wasn't the little mermaid retelling that I enjoy alongside BATB and POTO, I would have rated this lower.
The story started off with a fair amount of angst, the kind that'll keep your attention. EAGAN who was solid bitter and resentful against KAIRI'S nature, not to mention how the sirens killed his friends....well, needless to say, passion and hatred comes hand in hand to create the perfect angst. Sadly, while it did started off like that, the plot soon fizzled.
KAIRI may be a vicious siren, but the moment she gave up her siren's powers to be fully human, she turned into a de-clawed kitten. I didn't mind, but, it soon seemed like she just became someone else - softer, gentler, happier - for sure. Her attraction with Eagan and their relationship was too insta-lovey for me. Everything happened too fast, and the way Eagan soon set aside his qualms about their differences? Too unbelievable.
EAGAN wasn't the alpha male of my dreams. In fact, I'd say he's rather...average. Usually authors make it a big deal of creating unforgettable or really dominant male leads, but Eagan was quite like every other average guy, making him a relatable presence. Unfortunately, I'm not sure what his role was apart from playing the love interest.
Don't even get me started on the witch. Her "evil" role in this was extremely anti-climactic, and the moment where Eagan realises he can't lose Kairi? Super cliche, and had my eyes rolling. I would have preferred him to realize it at a more meaningful moment.
OVERALL this was s'okay. Nothing to write home about and nothing to launch me into a fit of girly giggles.
The story started off with a fair amount of angst, the kind that'll keep your attention. EAGAN who was solid bitter and resentful against KAIRI'S nature, not to mention how the sirens killed his friends....well, needless to say, passion and hatred comes hand in hand to create the perfect angst. Sadly, while it did started off like that, the plot soon fizzled.
KAIRI may be a vicious siren, but the moment she gave up her siren's powers to be fully human, she turned into a de-clawed kitten. I didn't mind, but, it soon seemed like she just became someone else - softer, gentler, happier - for sure. Her attraction with Eagan and their relationship was too insta-lovey for me. Everything happened too fast, and the way Eagan soon set aside his qualms about their differences? Too unbelievable.
EAGAN wasn't the alpha male of my dreams. In fact, I'd say he's rather...average. Usually authors make it a big deal of creating unforgettable or really dominant male leads, but Eagan was quite like every other average guy, making him a relatable presence. Unfortunately, I'm not sure what his role was apart from playing the love interest.
Don't even get me started on the witch. Her "evil" role in this was extremely anti-climactic, and the moment where Eagan realises he can't lose Kairi? Super cliche, and had my eyes rolling. I would have preferred him to realize it at a more meaningful moment.
OVERALL this was s'okay. Nothing to write home about and nothing to launch me into a fit of girly giggles.
February 4, 2025
🌊🖤A Song Of Death and Desire🖤🌊
✍🏼: Bec Eden
(ARC)
📍Ratings
4.5⭐️
2.5🌶️
1🖤
📍ARC Review
Hello hello my girly girls!
Today I come with the review of this wonderful retelling!
Let me tell you that the little mermaid is one of my favorite Disney movies, so I couldn't pass up this retelling. Of course I couldn't.
I loved it, it was actually a pretty light and quick read, with an excellent amount of spice that made it just perfect. Let me tell you that I went in with high expectations for this book and the truth is that the author did not disappoint.
At first I was a little hesitant about the characters and how everything will go, but as I was reading I was seeing how the pieces fell into their perfect places. Of course not to mention I completely fell in love with our FMC (she is a sweet and vivacious thing). With the MMC I'm not saying it was bad, he had a thousand reasons why he has doing what he has doing. So you can say it's understandable what he does and what he thinks and as you go along you understand it even more, but yes there were certain points that just made me want to punch him on the face and tell him “helloooo!!!!”
📍 Do I recommend it?
Uff!!! Of course I do.
I really loved it, I had never read a retelling of the little mermaid before and I was definitely left wanting to read a lot more books from this author. So if you are looking for some fantasy with mermaids not like the one Disney tells us and hungry for something more than fish and with a bit of spicy then this is the book for you.
But always keep in mind to read the warnings, because what may seem soft to me may not be for you.
✍🏼: Bec Eden
(ARC)
📍Ratings
4.5⭐️
2.5🌶️
1🖤
📍ARC Review
Hello hello my girly girls!
Today I come with the review of this wonderful retelling!
Let me tell you that the little mermaid is one of my favorite Disney movies, so I couldn't pass up this retelling. Of course I couldn't.
I loved it, it was actually a pretty light and quick read, with an excellent amount of spice that made it just perfect. Let me tell you that I went in with high expectations for this book and the truth is that the author did not disappoint.
At first I was a little hesitant about the characters and how everything will go, but as I was reading I was seeing how the pieces fell into their perfect places. Of course not to mention I completely fell in love with our FMC (she is a sweet and vivacious thing). With the MMC I'm not saying it was bad, he had a thousand reasons why he has doing what he has doing. So you can say it's understandable what he does and what he thinks and as you go along you understand it even more, but yes there were certain points that just made me want to punch him on the face and tell him “helloooo!!!!”
📍 Do I recommend it?
Uff!!! Of course I do.
I really loved it, I had never read a retelling of the little mermaid before and I was definitely left wanting to read a lot more books from this author. So if you are looking for some fantasy with mermaids not like the one Disney tells us and hungry for something more than fish and with a bit of spicy then this is the book for you.
But always keep in mind to read the warnings, because what may seem soft to me may not be for you.
February 21, 2025
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
A little mermaid retelling with a dark, moody twist and honestly, I was so ready to be obsessed. The setup? Solid. The MMC? Started out as a major walking red flag but actually had some really good growth, so I’ll give him that. The book touches on heavy mental health themes, which added some depth, and if you’re into romantasy with a little spice, you might vibe with this one.
Buuuut let’s talk about the pacing because whew. Some parts dragged forever while other major moments zipped by like a skipped song on your iPod Shuffle. The pacing definitely was giving me whiplash unfortunately and made it hard to get into.
And then there’s the FMC… girl. GIRL. You’re a siren. You should be giving femme fatale energy, but instead, you’re out here making reckless choices and getting yourself into messes that could’ve been avoided with one brain cell. Like, at some point, the “oops, I’m in danger again” thing stops being cute and starts being straight-up frustrating. For me a baddie FMC is a MUST and I was furious she didn’t embody that consistently and kept falling away from that potential. She had the BONES but just fell insanely flat. The MC is what carried the entirety of this book on his back.
That said, this book still has its moments, and I can totally see some people eating it up. The world building is interesting, the romance has that enemies-to-lovers spice, and if you love a dark fantasy with angsty vibes, you might just love it. Will I be picking up the next book? TBD. But if this sounds like your thing, go for it! Just be ready to yell at the heroine a little.
Spice: 🌶️
A little mermaid retelling with a dark, moody twist and honestly, I was so ready to be obsessed. The setup? Solid. The MMC? Started out as a major walking red flag but actually had some really good growth, so I’ll give him that. The book touches on heavy mental health themes, which added some depth, and if you’re into romantasy with a little spice, you might vibe with this one.
Buuuut let’s talk about the pacing because whew. Some parts dragged forever while other major moments zipped by like a skipped song on your iPod Shuffle. The pacing definitely was giving me whiplash unfortunately and made it hard to get into.
And then there’s the FMC… girl. GIRL. You’re a siren. You should be giving femme fatale energy, but instead, you’re out here making reckless choices and getting yourself into messes that could’ve been avoided with one brain cell. Like, at some point, the “oops, I’m in danger again” thing stops being cute and starts being straight-up frustrating. For me a baddie FMC is a MUST and I was furious she didn’t embody that consistently and kept falling away from that potential. She had the BONES but just fell insanely flat. The MC is what carried the entirety of this book on his back.
That said, this book still has its moments, and I can totally see some people eating it up. The world building is interesting, the romance has that enemies-to-lovers spice, and if you love a dark fantasy with angsty vibes, you might just love it. Will I be picking up the next book? TBD. But if this sounds like your thing, go for it! Just be ready to yell at the heroine a little.
February 1, 2025
A song of Death and Desire is a paranormal romance, little Mermaid retelling with a little more spice and a lot more teeth.
Kairi is a siren whose song lures sailor to their watery deaths to feed her and her sisters. While she loves her family she in enamoured by the land and the people who live on it. So when Eagan sails into her path she knows she should pull him under but something in her yells to save him. When Eagan sees Kairi after she pulls him ashore both of their lives are changed forever.
I enjoyed the premise of this book and the balance between Kairi’s understanding of her nature and the guilt she feels over it. She is a sunshine character and very likeable. The side characters are fun. I enjoyed Eagans sister and Kairis siren BFF characters and found myself more invested in their backstory than the main story.
I didn’t love the pacing and writing style. For me personally there was some over explaining or slow moving sections and I felt an emotional disconnect with the writing. I’m not sure how to explain it but for me personally there was enough flavour to the descriptive writing.
The MMC goes through some pretty heavy mental health issues (supernaturally related) so if that’s a trigger please be careful with this book.
Overall this book is a good read and I would recommend for someone who is after a paranormal romance without too much spice and a slow burn romance.
Kairi is a siren whose song lures sailor to their watery deaths to feed her and her sisters. While she loves her family she in enamoured by the land and the people who live on it. So when Eagan sails into her path she knows she should pull him under but something in her yells to save him. When Eagan sees Kairi after she pulls him ashore both of their lives are changed forever.
I enjoyed the premise of this book and the balance between Kairi’s understanding of her nature and the guilt she feels over it. She is a sunshine character and very likeable. The side characters are fun. I enjoyed Eagans sister and Kairis siren BFF characters and found myself more invested in their backstory than the main story.
I didn’t love the pacing and writing style. For me personally there was some over explaining or slow moving sections and I felt an emotional disconnect with the writing. I’m not sure how to explain it but for me personally there was enough flavour to the descriptive writing.
The MMC goes through some pretty heavy mental health issues (supernaturally related) so if that’s a trigger please be careful with this book.
Overall this book is a good read and I would recommend for someone who is after a paranormal romance without too much spice and a slow burn romance.
February 14, 2025
There are some things so difficult to imagine or understand we call it myth, but what if… Kairi is a siren that struggles with the day to day life, yearning to be a human, getting tastes of it when she can (yes pun intended). Until one hunt, the unthinkable occurs and an encounter with a man changes everything.
This fantasy romance set in a contemporary world features sirens and witches. The book is packed with character development and internal monologues that causes you to really feel like you see and understand the characters in all their capacities. Their understanding of the world changes with each new event, and the story is packed with tense and spicy moments.
There is tragedy and chaos, and even the mundane life of humans. But with the dual points of views, you see how life lived in a new way, can bring excitement to even the most simple moments. The handling of the siren song, resulting obsession, but also the trauma that comes from tragic events, is deeply felt by the characters and our on display. This book does have trigger warnings and they would be good to consider.
But it handles things well, and features an almost unbelievable found family, really cause they are so understanding, and I loved that! There is a lot of banter and some miscommunication moments but they really lend to the age and reality of the situations for mid 20 year olds.
I overall enjoyed the book and am very curious what will happen next! 4.5 stars from me!
This fantasy romance set in a contemporary world features sirens and witches. The book is packed with character development and internal monologues that causes you to really feel like you see and understand the characters in all their capacities. Their understanding of the world changes with each new event, and the story is packed with tense and spicy moments.
There is tragedy and chaos, and even the mundane life of humans. But with the dual points of views, you see how life lived in a new way, can bring excitement to even the most simple moments. The handling of the siren song, resulting obsession, but also the trauma that comes from tragic events, is deeply felt by the characters and our on display. This book does have trigger warnings and they would be good to consider.
But it handles things well, and features an almost unbelievable found family, really cause they are so understanding, and I loved that! There is a lot of banter and some miscommunication moments but they really lend to the age and reality of the situations for mid 20 year olds.
I overall enjoyed the book and am very curious what will happen next! 4.5 stars from me!
February 24, 2025
"A Song of Death and Desire" is a thoroughly captivating paranormal romance that offers a dark twist on "The Little Mermaid" tale. While I knew it was a retelling, I was unprepared for the intense and graphic elements that Bec Eden masterfully weaves into the narrative.
Kairi, the protagonist, is a Siren who embodies all the traits typical of her kind, making her a truly intriguing character. Eden's vivid depiction of the harsh realities Sirens face to survive is both shocking and fascinating, and it's easy to understand Eagan's revulsion towards Kairi's Siren nature.
The book truly captivated me through the evolving relationship between Kairi and Eagan. Despite her otherworldly nature, Kairi possesses more humanity than many humans, and I found myself deeply empathizing with her. The dual perspective in the narrative is crucial, allowing readers to witness the transformation in Eagan's feelings from his own viewpoint.
Bec Eden skillfully maintains the plot's momentum with multiple themes intertwined throughout the story. The characters are well-developed and engaging, even Vala, who emerges as a thoroughly detestable antagonist.
Sierra and Raidne, whose roles become more prominent in the latter part of the novel, show great potential for future stories. Their development adds depth to the narrative and leaves readers eager for more. **Before reading, please check the triggers.
Kairi, the protagonist, is a Siren who embodies all the traits typical of her kind, making her a truly intriguing character. Eden's vivid depiction of the harsh realities Sirens face to survive is both shocking and fascinating, and it's easy to understand Eagan's revulsion towards Kairi's Siren nature.
The book truly captivated me through the evolving relationship between Kairi and Eagan. Despite her otherworldly nature, Kairi possesses more humanity than many humans, and I found myself deeply empathizing with her. The dual perspective in the narrative is crucial, allowing readers to witness the transformation in Eagan's feelings from his own viewpoint.
Bec Eden skillfully maintains the plot's momentum with multiple themes intertwined throughout the story. The characters are well-developed and engaging, even Vala, who emerges as a thoroughly detestable antagonist.
Sierra and Raidne, whose roles become more prominent in the latter part of the novel, show great potential for future stories. Their development adds depth to the narrative and leaves readers eager for more. **Before reading, please check the triggers.
September 3, 2025
The way Bec has used siren lore and created her own world but with many familiar aspects to the overarching story is so well done, and we can't help but fall under Kairi's spell as her choices lead to unexpected challenges and changes in her life.
Eagan is a man who is struggling... with everything, and we are right with him as he loses himself to the despair that hearing and surviving a sirens song entails.
Letting Eagan survive went against everything Kairi's people believed in. It was an act of defiance, but it felt... right.
When these two finally come together, it's not all roses and falling instantly in love like a fairytale, far from it. Eagan is holding his fear and hatred close, having lost everything he once held dear, and it's only when he hits rock bottom and ruin that Kairi manages to salvage the remnants of his life and in return - may gain the world she always dreamed of.
Although this book deals in some heavier topics, there is so much discovery, laughter, and lightness interspersed that you find yourself falling under Kairi's spell and understanding who Eagan is at heart.
If you love:
- enemies to lovers
- siren/human
- fairytale retelling
- magical realism
- murders and mysteries
- touch him and die
- learning to trust
- mental health rep
- reality TV addict
Then this one is for you!
Eagan is a man who is struggling... with everything, and we are right with him as he loses himself to the despair that hearing and surviving a sirens song entails.
Letting Eagan survive went against everything Kairi's people believed in. It was an act of defiance, but it felt... right.
When these two finally come together, it's not all roses and falling instantly in love like a fairytale, far from it. Eagan is holding his fear and hatred close, having lost everything he once held dear, and it's only when he hits rock bottom and ruin that Kairi manages to salvage the remnants of his life and in return - may gain the world she always dreamed of.
Although this book deals in some heavier topics, there is so much discovery, laughter, and lightness interspersed that you find yourself falling under Kairi's spell and understanding who Eagan is at heart.
If you love:
- enemies to lovers
- siren/human
- fairytale retelling
- magical realism
- murders and mysteries
- touch him and die
- learning to trust
- mental health rep
- reality TV addict
Then this one is for you!
January 9, 2025
⭐⭐⭐1/2 🌶️🌶️
A dark 'The little mermaid retelling' but with a hint of spice.
Never trust the waters in a place called witches' grove.
The pacing is a bit hit and miss but this story has a very interesting plot. I struggled to love the MMC but the FMC's bubbly personality is infectious.
Bec did a wonderful job with everyone's character development, especially with the MMC's self-healing journey after an accident.
TRIGGERS!! accidents, anxiety, alcohol, bones, coma, death, decapitation, depression, drowning, dying, fear, fighting, forced actions, gore, graphic death, graphic sex, homelessness, hostage situation, injury, memory problems, mental health issues, murder, nudity, pain, panic attacks, PTSD, stabbing, suicidal ideation (siren song induced), suicide (siren song induced), violence, weather (storms), witches (not the good kind)
TROPES!! enemies to lovers, forced proximity, forbidden love, opposites attract, secret romance, grumpy/sunshine, amnesia, love at first sight, small town romance, fish out of water, hidden world, good vs. evil, magical creatures, magical transformation, dealing with loss/grief, self-discovery journey, found family
A dark 'The little mermaid retelling' but with a hint of spice.
Never trust the waters in a place called witches' grove.
The pacing is a bit hit and miss but this story has a very interesting plot. I struggled to love the MMC but the FMC's bubbly personality is infectious.
Bec did a wonderful job with everyone's character development, especially with the MMC's self-healing journey after an accident.
TRIGGERS!! accidents, anxiety, alcohol, bones, coma, death, decapitation, depression, drowning, dying, fear, fighting, forced actions, gore, graphic death, graphic sex, homelessness, hostage situation, injury, memory problems, mental health issues, murder, nudity, pain, panic attacks, PTSD, stabbing, suicidal ideation (siren song induced), suicide (siren song induced), violence, weather (storms), witches (not the good kind)
TROPES!! enemies to lovers, forced proximity, forbidden love, opposites attract, secret romance, grumpy/sunshine, amnesia, love at first sight, small town romance, fish out of water, hidden world, good vs. evil, magical creatures, magical transformation, dealing with loss/grief, self-discovery journey, found family
January 12, 2025
4,25/5 stars.
I absolutely devoured this. It was well written and also very easy and fun read. Usually I don't read retellings of popular fairytales, but as a dark romantasy/paranormal romance reader I'm so happy I requested this arc because I would've missed out on one of the best reads so far of my "arc reading career".
I loved the connection between Kairi and Eagan. I could feel attraction between the couple, and I rooted for them every step of the way. The spice was also very satisfying and felt meaningful. And the pet name he gave her was very fitting, but at the same time cute. It was also one I haven't read before.
As individuals, I liked how complex Kairi and Eagan were. Especially how Kairi struggled coming to terms with being a human, and how Eagan fought his feelings to her for so long before giving in. Other than the main characters, I also liked how Sienna and Raidne were pairing up immediately. Hope to see them getting also together at some point.
I can't wait for the book 2, but I will for sure reread this one also in the future.
Thank you for the author for the chance to read this early.
I absolutely devoured this. It was well written and also very easy and fun read. Usually I don't read retellings of popular fairytales, but as a dark romantasy/paranormal romance reader I'm so happy I requested this arc because I would've missed out on one of the best reads so far of my "arc reading career".
I loved the connection between Kairi and Eagan. I could feel attraction between the couple, and I rooted for them every step of the way. The spice was also very satisfying and felt meaningful. And the pet name he gave her was very fitting, but at the same time cute. It was also one I haven't read before.
As individuals, I liked how complex Kairi and Eagan were. Especially how Kairi struggled coming to terms with being a human, and how Eagan fought his feelings to her for so long before giving in. Other than the main characters, I also liked how Sienna and Raidne were pairing up immediately. Hope to see them getting also together at some point.
I can't wait for the book 2, but I will for sure reread this one also in the future.
Thank you for the author for the chance to read this early.
February 8, 2025
A Song of Death and Desire is a dark retelling of Little Mermaid, and boy does Bec Eden do an incredible job of bringing this rendition to life. It is captivating and hits all the right notes of nostalgia, while appealing to the dark romance reader in me. The story follows Kairi, longing for more than a life of hunger and coldness of the depths of the ocean, as she makes a crucial mistake in saving the life of Eagan, a life and a soul that should’ve been hers for the taking. Bound to each other in a way they can’t ignore, Kairi yearns for a life on the surface and a man she cannot have, while Eagan is haunted by the woman who saved his life, never escaping her song that plays over and over in his head.
I love the chemistry between the characters. It’s full of steam and was so intoxicating it left me wanting more. This is a fantastic debut novel and is a really easy read. The one thing I will say is that the pacing felt a little off throughout the book - some parts dragged out slowly while others were a rush to pack information in. I think this will improve over time for Bec, and I can’t wait to see what she does next!
Thank you so much to Bec for the eARC of this book 💕
I love the chemistry between the characters. It’s full of steam and was so intoxicating it left me wanting more. This is a fantastic debut novel and is a really easy read. The one thing I will say is that the pacing felt a little off throughout the book - some parts dragged out slowly while others were a rush to pack information in. I think this will improve over time for Bec, and I can’t wait to see what she does next!
Thank you so much to Bec for the eARC of this book 💕
February 13, 2025
This is a dark retelling of The Little Mermaid, which, as a kid who grew up watching Disney movies, made me so excited because I love reimaginings for the nostalgia, especially if there’s smut involved!
The book is a dual POV, telling the sides of Kairi, a siren, & Eagan, a fisherman who survives a siren feeding attack. After Kairi saves Eagan’s life & allows him to live following the attack, they both develop an obsession with each other, leading to the point of self destruction on both their parts, with Eagan losing his job & long term relationship, & Kairi participating less & less in the hunts that they require to sustain their lives, almost to the point of starving to death.
It delves into the lore of sirens, & works to explain why they mythically would lure seamen to their deaths. The book also does not romanticise mental health struggles, but shows it in a raw & real way, showing how when you’re struggling mentally, the rest of your life also ends up suffering too.
I enjoyed the writing style, as Bec Eden was able to immerse me in the world of Witches Cove and the dynamics of both the sirens & the people living there!
The book is a dual POV, telling the sides of Kairi, a siren, & Eagan, a fisherman who survives a siren feeding attack. After Kairi saves Eagan’s life & allows him to live following the attack, they both develop an obsession with each other, leading to the point of self destruction on both their parts, with Eagan losing his job & long term relationship, & Kairi participating less & less in the hunts that they require to sustain their lives, almost to the point of starving to death.
It delves into the lore of sirens, & works to explain why they mythically would lure seamen to their deaths. The book also does not romanticise mental health struggles, but shows it in a raw & real way, showing how when you’re struggling mentally, the rest of your life also ends up suffering too.
I enjoyed the writing style, as Bec Eden was able to immerse me in the world of Witches Cove and the dynamics of both the sirens & the people living there!
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