Two months after collapsing on the beach, Cassia awakens in the breathtakingly beautiful city of Atlantis, her life forever changed. Once a cherished bride-to-be, she is now a mermaid, grappling with her newfound destiny and the heavy consequences of her abrupt departure from her old life.
Struggling to come to terms with her transformation, Cassia faces a world where ancient myths blend with harsh reality. Her departure from her country has shattered alliances, left her fiance Louie at the altar, and jeopardized the tenuous peace between nations. As she delves deeper into the mysteries of her new existence, Cassia is burdened by the fate of her homeland, the looming threat of war, and the fate of her best friend, Liz.
“Tides of War” is the gripping second installment in the “Tides of Fate” series, following “Tides of Deception.” This fantasy romance novel is filled with epic battles, magic, and the transformative journey of a young woman discovering her true power. It invites readers to dive into a world where the stakes are as high as the tides of fate.
Imagine this: you’re riding a dolphin, clinging on as it leaps in and out of the waves. You’re exhilarated, breathless, holding on for dear life. Suddenly, you slip off, plunging into the depths—and just when it seems all is lost, a whale appears, catching you in its wake and guiding you back to the surface. Then repeat.
This book will have you gasping for air, your emotions churning like a whirlpool, and just when you think you’ve found your footing—bam—something unexpected happens.
The world-building keeps you rooted in their environment, it’s immersive and you feel as if you’re right there alongside the characters. Where Tides of Deception left us hanging on a cliff, Tides of War dives deep with answers to those burning questions. But brace yourself—the plot twists are TWISTING. The multiple POVs bring intrigue, giving us glimpses into each character’s perspective. I loved watching them grow, whether through physical or emotional journeys. Their complexities unraveled further, making it easier to understand their motives and feel connected.
This book feels like a tribute to the resilience each main character embodies, resonating with themes of compassion, overcoming rage, and that ever-present undercurrent of “I’d do anything for love.”
And the love triangle? Absolute whiplash—never have I ever been THIS conflicted. For someone who’s already indecisive, this is pure torture. Just when I pick one of them, a revelation pulls me toward the other. I thought I knew who I wanted it to be back in Book 1, but Book 2 completely blew that out of the water. Who is endgame??? Who do you WANT it to be??
I’m totally invested and emotionally wrapped up in this story. My heart’s in a bind, and naturally, the cliffhanger has me free-falling.
If I thought Tides of Deception left me with feelings, Tides of War has me absolutely fuming (slight dramatic scene). How dare Caley Robison make me fall for all three of Cassia’s love interests? HOW COULD SHE DO THIS TO ME?! I cannot choose. She needs to marry all three of them, and that’s the only acceptable resolution.
Dramatic rant aside—this book was incredible. Picking up immediately after the first book’s cliffhanger, it throws us right back into Cassia’s world, where tensions are higher than ever. The characters continue to evolve, stepping into their powers, responsibilities, and emotions in ways that feel natural and compelling. New truths about each character come to light, reshaping their journeys and making every relationship even more complex. And yes, my ranking of the love interests changed about 15 times while reading.
Beyond the romance, the book delivers everything—drama, passion, high-stakes battles, and strong character dynamics. The blend of merfolk and Greek mythology is done so seamlessly that it never once took me out of the story. The pacing keeps the tension tight, avoiding frustrating miscommunication tropes and instead focusing on meaningful character development.
And then that ending. Another cliffhanger. I’m frustrated, I’m invested, and I need the next book now.
I just finished this book, oh man! I don't know whether to cry or yell at Thoth and/or Poseidon! They are both selfish and horrible to use their children for their own gain, but such is the life for royals, I guess. This book was as good as the first, and now I'm sitting on the edge of my seat and can't wait to see what happens in books 3 and 4!
I'll not be leaving a star rating since I didn't gave enough attentionspan to read past chapter 5. It kept jumping back and forth between perspectives and timeline lacking any flow. I absolutely loved the first book. I find it such a shame the second one couldn't keep me interested.
Tides of Deception was amazing. Tides of War is epic. If you became invested in the characters in Book 1, just wait until you see how their stories continue in Tides of War. We are also introduced to new characters. If you love Greek mythology, mermaids, and the vibes of book 1, this book is going to break you. This book was so good that I read it twice before writing this review. There is so much in the storyline with the characters from book 1. The twists and turns that Caley has put in this book had my emotions all over the place. However, Cassia is one badass FMC, and we really see that in this book. I honestly just don't even know what to write in this review that won't spoil anything because I want to share everything about this book! Caley's story, writing, and world-building are amazing, and you can see yourself in the action. She also knows how to really pull at your emotions and make you feel for these characters, especially as we are starting to learn more about them and gain new relationships. Add this to your TBR. Read book 1. You won't regret it.
I genuinely like this story which is why I (very slowly) finished it. Took me about a month to finish it because I kept putting it down in favor of other books, not that most of them were much better.
Tides of War takes place right where the first book left off. The pacing was a bit slow for most of the book but then it was super rushed through Liz's story by the end which was disappointing because her story started getting very interesting with being stuck on that island. Overall I give this book 2 stars. It has so much potential and has a great premise but the execution is lacking for me. I think my main issue was the constant POV changes within the chapters. If not for that I may have likes it more. So if that doesn't bother you than you'll probably really like this book.
Notes I took while reading: -The amount of times the POV changes *within* the chapter is wild. Why not just change it each chapter. It's wild how many times it changes in a single chapter. I don't remember it changing this often in a chapter in book 1 -Liz is not this dumb. Why is she not questioning that someone else is living on this island and instantly happy to invite her in for dinner? And just happens to know she's already there? It's giving gullible princess vibes. -Cassia's just attracted to whichever man is spending the most time with her at any given moment. Her feelings change with the tide, pun intended. -Thoth: Poseidon hasn't been able to master the reckoning (he's thousands of years old). *Cassia destroys one massive boulder with the reckoning* Thoth: You'll be able to master the reckoning in the two months you were given to win your bed! ...?????? -Chapter 28. Agenor is selfish and thinks he's entitles to who and whatever he wants -Cassia told Agenor that Besus treated her with respect so when he stole a kiss from her while he tied her up (while training) he clearly deserved it??? What? A man treats you with respect and that means he can now do whatever he wants? -Agenor *finally* apologizes and Cassia tells him not to and takes the blame on herself. No. This man is finally owning up to his behavior and trying to acknowledge it, but instead Cassia tries to blame herself for the men's actions. -Liz, someone who's never trained before, somehow whips her ass into shape in 1-2 weeks in order to climb a mountain that goes so high it's above the clouds and somehow manages to do it? I get she's motivated since she's stranded on the island and all and this is fiction but her character is still human... She was basically a lady in wait/seamstress. I can only suspend my belief so far -The amount of times the text is in caps when a character is raising their voice is too much. I think an exclamation point gets the point across just fine and the caps isn't always necessary. -Chapter 33. The muli-POV within a single chapters is back with a vengeance. It *literally* changes to Belus's POV for TWO sentences. Two. Why? Just make this series third person omniscient if you want everyone's thoughts known in each chapter. -Eros showing up made me more invested in Liz's character. I feel like that would be an interesting duo as the story progresses -I love authors painting a picture of the scene but sometimes it gets a bit wordy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This was powerful, tragic and emotional. This picks right up after the events in Tides of Deception, where Cassia and Louie's relationship had blossomed and all was set for their Kingdoms to have peace through their Union. The first book was centred around political alliances and Cassia surviving in the new Kingdom against the Queen's scheming, but this one completely shifts focus to the mystical world of Atlantis leaving Louie behind, and we get to see the twin Princes Agenor and Belus fighting it out for Cassia's affection. Now in the underwater Kingdom Cassia must adapt to being a mermaid, recover from her awakening, and fight her conflicted feelings. I loved the mix of Mermaid lore intertwined with the Greek Gods. There are some fantastic revelations and twists, and Cassia gets to explore her powers and new abilities. I love that this has multiple POV so while the main plot is focussed on the events in Atlantis, we still get glimpses into what's happening on land, all the trauma, plotting and resentment, and Liz's grand adventures which i'm intrigued to see how her story will progress. It's entertaining seeing Agenor and Belus's POV too as they compete and try to outwit each other. This introduces some new enemies, the Gods scheming, and tragic backstory reveals. It's definitely an emotional read, with dramatic twists and shifts in love interests, just when it has you rooting for one, it throws a devastating curveball! Can't wait for book 3's twists.
🌊 "She couldn't shake the feeling that the choice she was about to make would shape, not only her destiny, but the fates of everyone she held dear"
🌊"He would do anything for her. Anything but let her go"
🌊"There's a spark within you, a fire that burns brighter than you realise"
🌊"I crave you. I feel it in my entire being. If I can't have you, I'll lose myself"
🌊"I'd follow you to the ends of the earth, to Hades and back, if it meant I could stay by your side"
Fantasy Romance Greek Mythology Twin Princes High Stakes Scheming Arranged marriage Forbidden Love He Falls First x3 Atlantis
Tides of War picks up with Cassia waking up after her huge transformation at the end of Tides of Deception. She learns so much information in just a couple short months while under the sea. And I forgot just how much of a bad-A she is! Despite just barely being healed, she co-leads an army into battle alongside Belus. And she not only saves one of their men, but also takes out so many sharks with her Reckoning power!
Speaking of Belus, Caley has completely brought me to Team Belus with this story! I hated Louie’s reaction after Tides of Deception, and Agenor also got on my nerves. He seems to have a sense of entitlement to Cassia, despite not knowing her. Regardless of most of our characters being mermaids in this story, we definitely get Stefan and Damon vibes out of Agenor and Belus. You really feel for them as you learn more of their background.
I loved that we didn’t lose Liz in this story! She was one of my favorite side characters during Tides of Deception, and I wanted to see what happened to Cassia’s best friend after the abandoned wedding. She goes through her own transformation, and we are getting hints of where her journey will take her next!
But that twist!! I definitely didn’t see it coming, and it brings a whole new depth to our characters and the background people they are linked to. Tides of Gods and Men, the next installment in the Tides of Fate series, is going to be amazing with the big 3 gods, their children, and impending war. Sadly this twist breaks apart our lovers once again. We end Tides of War by going back to the setting from Tides of Deception, Cassia learns what Louie is capable of and is pissed. This is going to make a great beginning for book 3!
You have to read this! If you love a story with mermaids, magic, touch her and d!e, mythology, a stabby FMC, twins, political Intrigue, and mind reading, you won’t regret reading Tides of War. Catch the tide!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
"If you lose yourself, I will find you. I will always find you."
As Book 2 takes off from the cliffhanger in Book 1, we are submerged in a world of mermaids, magic, and Greek gods. Cassia is adjusting to her new life after her life takes a turn that she never imagined possible. She has no idea what has happened to her bethrothed, Prince Louie, her best friend Liz, and her family back home in Nimuria. She is in this love triangle with Belus and Agenor, and she unravels so much from her new life.
Tides of War introduces us to some new characters and gives more knowledge of characters that appeared in Tides of Deception. We get a better understanding of the twins and their backstory, as well as Cassia's. There is so much new information going on that I could not stop reading! I really enjoyed the overall flow of this book, and the multiple POVs kept me intrigued as they would change points of view in between chapters. It was different and I really found that more entertaining. I was torn between the twins and Louie. There is still so much to unravel, and I am ready for it! Towards the end of the book, I was taken into a whirlwind of information I did not expect. What an ending!
Caley Robison can entertain. I love her take on Greek mythology and tying it into her unique paranormal fantasy story. I had so much fun reading this book as well as Tides of Deception.
This book had me from beginning to end. I was gasping. Laughing. Sighing in frustration. Crying. Cringing. Jumping. Clapping. All of the emotions. This book I so beautifully put together and flows so effortlessly. You fall in love with so many characters and the author takes your through so many hoops and loops. So many you don’t even see coming. It’s brilliantly crafted and I am just hooked. I need book 3 yesterday!
Anything this author writes will be read by me for sure! Brava!!!!!!
The revelations in this book blew my mind! Okay! There is a lot at work here and the Gods (as always) are playing their own game. I loved seeing more of Liz in this book.
When I read book 1 I was wondering what Caley put in it cause I could not put it down, but now I know it's crack! It's pure crack! It's so good and addictive and it had me in a chokehold long after I finished it!
My mythology, ancient history and mermaid loving self was geeking out so hard with this book! It scratched itches I didn't even now needed to be scratched. The details and the way it was woven together into this amazing story had my jaw dropping on the floor!
I absolutely love Caley's writing and all the easter eggs she put in there, from different stories and movies that I love, had me sqealing multiple times!
This book picks up right where book 1 left off and sucks you right in till the end leaving you wanting more!
The plot twists just keep coming and we get introduced to a lot of new characters, making the story even more interesting with every page.
This book is heavy on the mermaid and we get to see more of our favorite twins. Normally I'm not really into love triangles but this one has me heavily invested! I love how Cassia's relationship with each guy is totally different and how they all evolve.
The side characters are also so well done, you love them as much as you do the main characters and in this book they even get to tell more of their own stories.
If you haven't read book 1 "Tides Of Deception" yet, seriously drop everything now and read it! You can thank me later!
🧜♀️Mermaids 🌊Who Did This To You? 🧜♀️Touch Her and Die 🌊Hidden Powers 🧜♀️Strong FMC 🌊Political Intrigue 🧜♀️Forbidden Love 🌊Enemies to Lovers & Lovers to Enemies 🧜♀️Legacy and Secrets 🌊Gods and Goddesses 🧜♀️Challenges and Trials 🌊Greek Mythology 🧜♀️Evil Twin
Thank you to the author for the ARC! “Tides of War” releases January 10, 2025!
My first note for this review was written at roughly 20% and was just “oh no, I love it.” After that it was all incoherent feral screeching, so do with that what you will.
Two months after that fateful encounter with Agenor and Belus on the beach, Cassia wakes up to find herself in Atlantis. With a tail. Reeling in the aftermath, Cassia struggles to come to terms with her new reality. Gods, war, and broken engagements loom overhead, and Cassia is not the only piece on the board.
If you’ve never seen a grown woman react viscerally to a work of fiction, you really should have been a fly on the wall while I was reading this book. I laughed, I cried, I cringed, I raged. I even kicked my feet and giggled a little bit. All the things, the entire way through the story.
We started out strong in book 1 when we had Little Mermaid X Greek mythology vibes; book 2 said ‘hold my beer’ and went *hard* into the emotional whiplash. We still have all the crossover goodness of the fairytale/mythos hybrid (a new favorite genre that I already need more of), just with more trauma for both the reader and the MCs.
Speaking of MCs, I still love all of them. We see a lot less of Louie in this book, but we get a lot more of our other two MMCs. I still love all of them. Cassia is, naturally, still fierce and incredible and actually holding it all together really well considering she’s barely an adult and got dumped into a lot of problems in literally all areas of her life. I loved watching the dynamics between her, Belus, and Agenor play out here because we got to see each of them and their respective relationships develop and change as the situation changed. Our other characters were every bit as fun to read about, and though they were noticeably less directly involved with the other three they’ve all been positioned just so in terms of the overall outcome.
On the note of overall outcome, the plot here is simply incredible. Tiny breadcrumbs are sprinkled throughout leading up to a whole series of perception-altering occurrences, and by the end everything you thought you knew has changed. And it’s *amazing*. No spoilers, of course, but the writing? The execution? The build up?! 10/10; delightfully well done.
When I tell you this book was a joy to read, I don’t strictly mean that it gave me all the warm and fuzzy feelings and it left me super happy and not at all concerned for our characters’ well-beings. What I mean is that it was a solidly enjoyable book that I would unreservedly recommend to almost anyone who likes fantasy books. What I mean is that I would (and will) reread this book multiple times, that I sat completely entranced by the story that the author was telling from beginning to end, that I was completely invested in what happened to those characters because the story itself was incredible. I don’t think I have the right words to describe how much I loved this book simply because there’s no good way to explain the book itself. All the mythology, all the fairytale, all the creativity that was poured into this story makes it uniquely fantastic in a way that defies explanation. You need to read this book.
Sequels to major hits often face the challenge of maintaining their initial momentum, and Tides of War is a prime example of this endeavor. It does, however, commendably rise to the occasion, exploring the multifaceted story of Cassia and her complex relationships with greater depth and nuance. Picking up just two months after Cassia’s intense “abduction” by the intriguing brothers Aegor and Belus—both vying for her affection—the narrative is set against a richly developed backdrop of turbulent seas and political intrigue. Cassia's journey not only uncovers thrilling revelations about her identity but also highlights her heritage as the daughter of Poseidon, the mighty god of the oceans. This discovery adds a fascinating layer to her character, emphasizing her determination to forge her own destiny amidst the precarious political dynamics both on land and at sea.
As the story shifts back to the mortal realm, Cassia’s loyal friend Liz becomes ensnared in a perilous conflict with the increasingly unpredictable Louie and his conniving family. Their secretive plans add complexity to the plot and amplify the overall tension, effectively setting the stage for what promises to be an epic conclusion in the upcoming installment. Like its predecessor, Tides of War is packed with exhilarating battles, finely crafted world-building, and the ever-present influence of gods intervening in the lives of mortals.
One of the standout aspects for me was the nuanced development of Cassia’s character, particularly in her relationships with Aegor and Belus. The deep affection each brother holds for her is beautifully portrayed, revealing their individual ambitions and desires while they navigate the intricacies of their sibling bond. Additionally, Cassia’s interactions with Thoth are especially striking; their relationship becomes pivotal as she comes to terms with her newfound identity as Poseidon’s daughter. The supporting cast is robust and enriches the narrative, echoing broader themes of duty, sacrifice, and self-discovery.
That said, there are areas where the book could be refined further. Similar to the first installment, some chapters felt brief, which occasionally limited deeper exploration of critical scenes. While the brisk pace effectively drives the narrative forward and keeps it engaging, I wish for more depth in certain moments to fully grasp the rising tension and emotional stakes. As a fellow author, I understand the delicate balance between showing and telling, and this brings me to my main critique: the ending. Although the lead-up to the conclusion is compelling and intellectually stimulating, the abrupt finality left me feeling unfulfilled. In contrast, the first book concluded on a note that felt much more satisfying and cohesive.
Despite these critiques, Tides of War remains an engaging and captivating read that I wholeheartedly recommend. I look forward to seeing how the story unfolds in the third installment and encourage others to add it to their reading lists as soon as it becomes available!
Tides of War is such a captivating mix of enemies to lovers, long-lost family drama, and a love triangle, all set against a fantasy backdrop. It's the second book in Caley Robison’s "Tides of Fate" series, and it picks up right where Tides of Deception left off. The witty banter, intriguing court politics, enchanting mermaids, and elements of Greek mythology kept me totally hooked! I was so drawn into the story that I ended up reading late into the night—definitely way past my bedtime!
Just like the first book, this one is told from multiple points of view, and I loved getting to dive into Liz and Othello’s perspectives. It was a brilliant decision by the author! Their viewpoints provided a fresh break from the main characters and kept the narrative from feeling dragged out or overly dramatic. I was especially thrilled to see Liz’s journey continue since I absolutely adore her. Othello’s perspective was equally engaging, and I am excited to see the direction his storyline took.
The world-building in this second installment is just as beautifully crafted as in the first! It’s immersive and complex without being overwhelming, striking a perfect balance. The multiple POVs really enhance this experience, bringing to life a variety of settings that blend seamlessly, regardless of how much time each one gets. And just like in the first book, the character development is spot on, keeping the characters relatable and strong amidst all the tensions and drama they face. I particularly admired Cassia—her strength and fierce attitude shone throughout the book. She didn't turn into a mess, lose herself completely, or easily forgive those who wronged her, which I really appreciated. It’s tough to connect with a “strong” female character who does that, so I loved Cassia's journey.
Now, let's talk about the characters! I have to give a shoutout to the author for making me feel a whirlwind of emotions towards the characters. One minute I liked someone, and then in the next chapter, I was completely done with them. By the end, one character really stuck in my craw—let's just say they gave off some serious "Tammy vibes" with a tail! Once I noticed it, I could not unsee it, and there was no redemption for that character whatsoever. 😂
Oh yeah, there’s a cliffhanger ending & let’s just say I put the author on time out for that ending cause WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT TO US…. Just no. LOL
I know it’s only January, but this Tides of Fate series is definitely shaping up to be one of my memorable reads for 2025. I can’t wait to see what happens in book 3!
Well Caley you’ve done it. I am actually at a loss for words.
After reading Tides of Deception, I was so thankful to have been given the opportunity to read Tides of War, especially after that cliffhanger in book 1 and my goodness what a cliffhanger it was! I only gave myself time to write a review before jumping straight into the pages of book 2 landing myself into the sea. That’s the only clue I am giving.
As I said in my previous review, Caley your writing is flawless. The way you describe the world and characters you’ve created, makes it so easy to leave this world behind and live in the world you’ve created, which I personally find very liberating. That is until you made my emotions and heart rate go haywire.
The serious turn of events, Calie I salute you. I was completely blindsided and left devastated. My poor emotions are wrecked and I am in desperate need of book 3, because yes you’ve guessed it, another whopper of a cliffhanger alongside some mega plot twists.
I started going into this book with caution after the writers note states,
‘To everyone who’s still here after that cliffhanger. Thanks for hanging on. I apologise for what I am about to do to you. May What Gods You Believe In Watch Over You!’
That caution went out the window immediately, Calie’s words just grips your heart and you can’t help fall in love with the story. The emotional warfare you go through for the characters is insane and boy did she certainly do some characters dirty. I loved getting to know the characters on a more personal level in this book, even though I was left betrayed by one character in particular. The feelings towards each character changed so dramatically it was like whiplash, from hating, to loving, to absolutely adoring, to frustration, to full on belly laughing, it was certainly a ride worth taking.
I want to thank you Calie for putting up with me bombarding you with messages of my inner monologue.
Now I must struggle on through whilst I wait to read the next book in the series. Tides of War will be released in January. I will update you all with a release date.
As Caley says ‘May What Ever Gods You Believe In Watch Over You!’
Cassia woke up and saw the stunning breathtaking city of Atlantis. Her life changed as now she is a mermaid. Heavy burdens fill up her heart as her departure from Allagash will cause a brutal war to come up and the unknown fate of her best friend, Liz. Then the darkest secret has come to reveal itself to her.
The current story happened on Atlantis. The darkest secret of the past between the Gods starts to show. I’m very surprised about Belus. I never thought he would be so 50/50 gentle and be bad at the same time. But, I still like him better than other boys. I hope his soul healed, and he will have a happy life with Cassia in the future. For Cassia herself, she was a badass warrior queen, not retreating from any kind of battle, in Land and Sea. When she brings command to her army, it chills my spine.
Cassia’s life in this story is like moving on from a young adult to becoming mature. She keeps strong and faces every challenge even though everyone seems to have tricks up their sleeve around her and wants to use her.
It’s like people in most life, who make at least one mistake in their life and try to solve and fix the problem to make it up. Also, I did not expect the outcome for Liz and never thought she would become one of the important characters in the story. She is like a caterpillar to a cocoon and becomes a beautiful butterfly. The combat fighting is very detailed. It even considers character movement underwater and when they attack the dangerous Sea creatures. I just wish the combat battle between Cassia and the monster was longer and had more deadly vibes, especially on attack and defense. Actually, there is a chapter which contains memories of a character. I wish it was put on prolog because it is a litt le bit distracting me from the current events in the story. I really enjoyed the story. I did not expect the plot twist and cliffhanger to happen at the same time as the event. I can’t wait for the next book. Please don’t take it much longer!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Tides of War by Caley Robison - book 2 in the Tides of Fate series
I thought the first book in the series was a page turner. When I say I read this in one day, I mean I ignored everything and read this book in one day. Ok, not literally everything, but by nose was in this book all day. I. Could. Not. Put. It. Down.
Caley builds a world so vivid it would be hard not to see it. The majority of the book takes place underwater in the kingdom of Atlantis. The details are exquisite and make the reader wish they could experience the wonder for themselves.
At the end of the first book, Tides of Conquest, we see Cassia begin to change. She's whisked away, and her world above water begins to unravel. The second book, Tides of War, delves into the change and how she must recover and learn to adjust to an entirely new way of life, while also gain the strength to return to life as she knows it. Things you'd never consider are touched on in this story, down to what it feels like for oxygen to be absorbed rather than breathed.
Cassia is yet again thrust into the life she has always led, the dutiful princess of a kingdom, but she's still just as driven and fiery as we've come to expect, never one to back down from a fight. She's resilient despite the odds stacked against her, and I love that she has to struggle in her recovery and adjustment period. So many times I've read books where a character is thrust into an unbelievable situation and takes to it like a fish to water. Cassia has to learn, and I love that. Now, granted, her training and dedication make her a quick study, but the struggle is still shared.
There are laugh out loud moments and gut-wrenching devastations. Her heart is a casualty more times than any one person should have to endure, and I hope this next book will give her some sort of peace, but duty comes first for a leader and Cassia is most definitely a leader.
Tides of War is a submersively exhilarating read and will leave you wishing for more!
Add the Tides of Fate series to the front of your TBR. The others can wait.
Caley does it again! A thrilling escapade through the seas, catching up with our favorite characters and watching the world unfold.
Merging worlds as Cassia wakes up in Atlantis as a mermaid! She slowly regains her strength and faces off against both Belus and Agenor - sibling rivalry at its finest as each tries to best the other and lay claim to Cassia.
Brought before Poseidon to learn he’s her true father. Who betroths her to Belus, much to Agenor’s chagrin.
Meanwhile, Othello takes his father’s crown and marries the Princess of Sparta; who happens to be the niece of his mentor Lysander. And they begin to prepare for the inevitable war.
Liz has washed ashore of a secluded island where she meets Circe and many a pig. She asks if she can get off the island and is told that she will have to learn magic as boats do not come by often. Circe tells her she must climb the mountain and drink from the Waters of Poseidon which will give her magical powers.
Louie has basically been drunk since Cassia disappeared on the eve of their wedding. He’s distraught and angry. Samantha is able to break him out of his melancholic state and he begins to go back to training. 2 weeks pass and during a training session his anger at Cassia flares and his nearly fatal blow is interrupted by Eamon.
Suddenly Sebastin enters the scene with a shocking burst upon which Louie runs to the castle. His father is dead and he is now King. He runs from his father’s room, the heavy reality on his shoulders as he makes his way to the beach - where he sees Cassia rising from the ocean…..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Tides of War really took it up a notch! May the gods you believe in watch over you.
Everything I raved about book 1 having, book 2 has expanded on, so here's a little refresher:
Strong FMC ✅ Hidden identities ✅ Banter ✅ Greek mythology ✅ Multiple love interests ✅ Mermaids ✅ Political intrigue ✅
Cassia wakes up in Atlantis after essentially being in a coma for 2 months and has to regain all her strength again. She wakes up having to wonder what has happened since she was taken from Allagash and how she can get back to protect her kingdom and best friend, Liz. What will happen while she's gone? Will her family be safe? Is Louie looking for her?
Meanwhile, Aegnor and Belus are both fighting to have a place in Cassia's heart. Who will be the victor? Or will Louie come in and take back his betrothed?
There is so much that happens in book 2, I was not ready for the emotional damage that took place on my soul. 😅 Be ready to kick your feet and giggle, yell at your kindle/physical book, and scream-cry over these characters because the ride you're about to go on is wild! Enjoy it. 😉
Thanks again to Caley, you've really been so incredible to get to know while reading your books and I'm eternally grateful for getting to read for you and have you listen to all my reactions and deal with my emotions. 😂 Thank you for letting me be a part of your journey and read your masterpiece of a series! 💛
I really enjoyed book 1 and had high hopes for book 2. While I understood the context and the direction the story was heading, some elements just didn’t make sense to me. For instance, when Cassia woke up after being unconscious for two months, her reaction felt unrealistic. A normal person, especially someone who’s spent their entire life above ground, would’ve freaked out much more—but she barely reacted.
Then there’s her sudden bond with Agenor and Belus. Despite having only a handful of interactions with them, but they're suddenly besties now. I get that they were the only two merpeople she knew, but it still felt forced. Additionally, Cassia’s lack of protest about returning above ground made her character seem passive; she just accepted everything thrown at her.
The constant POV switches within the same chapter were also frustrating and made it hard to stay immersed in the story. On top of that, nearly every character seemed to fall in love with someone they’d just met. Cassia, for example, believed she was in love with Louie in book 1, then with Agenor for the first half of book 2, and finally with Belus for the rest.
As much as I loved book 1, book 2 felt like a significant step down. Even if book 3 turns out to be better, I don’t think I’ll be continuing the series.
First off, this is the second book in the series. Caley Robinson (the author) has her handle as the first book's title (seen above). Go check that out first.
Second. This book has MULTIPLE POVs. Make sure to pay attention to when it changes because it isn't just with each chapter. There are 6 main people, but a few others make an appearance when needed.
Cassia has become a mermaid! At the end of book 1, this came with her also proving to have a crazy power within her. Agenor and Belus are determined to save her.
Liz, Cassia's best friend goes out to sea after finally being let go. She wants to get away and find cassia, who suddenly disappeared. Othello, Cassia's brother, is dealing with the death of their father and what that means going forward.
Louie is not doing well after Cassia's disappearance. His parents want to go to war with Cassia's family now that the engagement is broken.
Caley took me for a ride with this one! The gods have officially made an entrance and some of my favorite Greek mythology characters have been spun into this story in a way that had me finding every excuse to keep reading. The level of twists and changes that happened in this book kept me on my toes. Caley also left us in a spot that has me devastated and needing answers! Go read it.
WOW. Caley Robison has absolutely leveled up with Tides of War! This sequel blew me away on every front, and I’m thrilled to slap a glowing 5 stars on it.
First off—the characters. We dive deeper into the main cast, peeling back layers and seeing sides of them I didn’t know I needed. And Belus? Let me just say, his growth in this book is incredible. He’s my pick for endgame—no question. As for the secondary characters, one in particular burst onto the scene and became my new obsession almost instantly.
The pacing? Chef’s kiss. Not too fast, not too slow—it hit that perfect sweet spot where I couldn’t stop turning pages. And the world-building? Let me just say…Robison went big. The world has expanded in ways that left me awestruck, complete with new locations and clever nods that mythology buffs will eat up. Oh, and did I mention new pantheons? Because, yes, we’re getting new pantheons, and they are fabulous.
Now, let’s talk twists. TWISTS. Plural. These curveballs didn’t just surprise me—they wrecked me. Picture me at work, yelling out loud and making my coworkers question my sanity. It was that good.
Tides of War is everything I wanted and more: epic, surprising, and completely unforgettable. If you’re not already reading this series, what are you even doing? Go grab it. You won’t regret it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Tides of War is an emotional rollercoaster that picks up seamlessly from Tides of Deception, delivering nonstop twists, stunning world-building, and characters you’ll be utterly invested in. Caley’s writing draws you into a vivid world of Greek mythology, ancient history, and mermaids, keeping you captivated until the very last page.
Cassia stands out as a bold and determined FMC, navigating the challenges of her royal duties, family bonds, and a love triangle so gripping it’s impossible to choose sides. The relationships are beautifully complex, and the side characters add even more depth, with their own arcs making the story richer and more engaging.
Prepare for an intense journey filled with laughter, tears, jaw-dropping moments, and more than a few gasps. The multiple POVs offer fresh insights into the characters, while the plot twists keep you guessing at every turn. Caley’s ability to weave emotion and suspense into her storytelling is masterful.
If Tides of Deception left you wanting more, this sequel delivers in every way. And if you haven’t started the series yet, now’s the time to dive into book 1—it’s an experience you won’t forget. Bring on book 3!
Screaming, crying, throwing up. @authorcaleyrobison has done it again.
First of all I just want to say what a breath of fresh air it is to read such a good book about mermaids. I have searched far and wide and have found the one.
Following on from book one Cassia wakes up to find her life has changed forever. She must now learn to adapt to her new life, fight for it and make choices she never thought she’d have to make.
I still love the multiple POV and seeing how everyone is handling the aftermath of book one. It’s something that doesn’t always work but Caley made it work so effortlessly.
I wanted more on Belus and boy did I get it, it broke me in ways I didn’t think possible. He deserves the world and more and I really really dislike Agenor. This book just kept on giving and plot twist after plot twist kept me on the edge (literally) of my seat. I’m not usually into love triangles but it’s clear to me there is no triangle. I know who should be together.
“It wasn’t just tears that escaped her, but the raw anguish of a soul torn apart”
🌊 Mermaids 🌊 Forbidden Love 🌊 Enemies to Lovers & Lovers to Enemies 🌊 Greek Mythology 🌊 Secrets & Legacy
This book was even better than the first one. And what did I say? That I wanted to read more about the mermaid kingdom, Atlantis. Well, this book delivers that in abundance. 🌊
I loved the character development of Agenor and Blues, and I adore how the tables turned regarding how we perceive them. We get even more backstory, which makes the plot even more engaging. It’s full of twists that none of us saw coming—well, if you did, it’s still a highly enjoyable story!
Cassia is still quite childish at times. It’s a bit odd how she always seems to develop feelings for whoever she spends more time with. However, by the end, she a bit grows out of this “sometimes you, sometimes him” situation, which made me really happy.
The Greek mythology elements are fantastic, naturally sprinkled with Caley’s unique style. The multi-POV writing is still great, though the third-person perspective takes a bit of getting used to.
All in all it was such a fun read! ✨ And look at the chapter head details! 😍
I don’t even know where to start. The author did such an amazing job with this book. The world building, the characters, the emotions — everything feels so vivid and alive that you truly live inside that world while reading. It’s breathtaking, magical, and completely captivating.
I loved that the story was told through multiple POVs. All those intertwined fates and lives made it even more powerful. I didn’t want it to end. There were even a few moments that made me cry, which almost never happens to me, and that says a lot.
This story has everything: mermaids, Greek mythology, magic, love, heartbreak, and even a love triangle — actually, more like a love quadrangle! It’s deep, raw, and emotional in the best possible way.
And the main male character… oh my god. He starts off as the bad guy, but he’s not bad for her. For her, he’s everything. Their connection completely wrecked me in the most beautiful way.
Honestly, this is one of the best books I’ve read this year. Stunning, emotional, unforgettable.
Ah, where to start. This book was so so good, I’ve devoured the series over the last few days. Book 2 was by far my favourite as we delved into the characters more. I love the different POVS and despite sometimes getting frustrated when we moved to someone else’s POV right at a crucial point, it always ended up being for the right reason and sucking you into their story more. I enjoyed the Greek mythology as who doesn’t want a book with Gods in it? Favourite scenes have to be, the fight with the chains, the island scene and Nova. I often see things coming in books, but did not see some of the twists coming in this one, which was a very pleasant surprise. The cliffhanger though… I need to next book immediately. I’m quite new into fantasy and never delved into a Merworld, but this is one of my favourite series of the year and I can’t wait for the audiobook. I will be rereading this soon.
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced reader copy, but was under no obligation to review.
She’s done it again! I absolutely devoured *Tides of War*! I’m giving it 4.5 stars—only because my favorite character, Louie, didn’t get as much spotlight this time (sorry, Caley, you know I love you too), but that plot twist... my heart!
*Tides of War* picks up right where the first book left off, plunging us into a world brimming with mystery and magic. All those burning questions about Cassie, Agenor, and Belus? Well, we get the answers... mostly. 😉 The emotional rollercoaster of the relationships had me hooked from start to finish, and by the end, I’m definitely team Belus. A fantastic addition to this book is the parallel storyline, following another character on their own journey—I'm excited to see where that leads!
The world-building, plot, characters, and slow-burn romance are all top-notch. I’m on the edge of my seat, eagerly awaiting book three. Honestly, I don’t even know what I want to happen next because my heart is torn. 😢 Can’t wait to see what comes next!