Whispers of the Selkie

by Lisa A. Moore

The ocean has always whispered to Morwenna Willowheart Brightwood, but now its call is relentless, impossible to ignore. When a mysterious letter appears, laced with ancient power and secrets, it pulls her from her peaceful life on the rugged Maine cliffs to the mist-laden Scottish Highlands. There, she’s swept into a world where magic is as real as the rocky shore she left behind, and family secrets run as deep as the sea.

Joined by her fierce, quick-witted sister Ava, Morwenna discovers that her lineage is more than she ever bargained for. Dark forces lurk beneath the surface, creatures from myth walk among mortals, and a villain with grand, sinister designs plots in the shadows. As she awakens powers that set her soul alight, Morwenna must dive headfirst into her destiny or let the waves of fate swallow her world whole.

Anchored by wit, grit, and the roar of the ocean, Morwenna is ready to battle the supernatural forces that threaten everything she holds dear. This isn’t the life she chose—but she’ll fight to protect it, one spellbound step at a time.

Editorial Review:
Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers’ Favorite
Review: 5 Stars

"Whispers of the Selkie is a must-read urban fantasy adventure filled with magic, mystery, adventure, suspense, sarcasm, secrets, and family drama. It's a true page-turner from the beginning. Lisa A. Moore has crafted a skilled, captivating debut that perfectly captures the emotional weight of her protagonist's journey while combining fantasy elements such as mythical creatures, a family curse, legacies, secrets, ancient prophecies, untamed magical powers, an ancient artifact, and supernatural forces. Anyone interested in selkie tales, beautiful writing, sarcastic heroines, an ambitious villain, a compelling cast of characters, and urban or contemporary fantasy should read this book!" --Readers' Favorite

Genres: Fantasy

306 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 21, 2025

About the author

Award-winning fantasy author Lisa A. Moore (Best New Fantasy Author 2025) crafts worlds where Celtic mythology meets modern sass, and gothic shadows hide wicked bargains. Her Readers' Favorite 5-star rated novels 'Whispers of the Selkie' and 'The Bet in Nocturne Alley' showcase her range from selkie shapeshifters to frost-wielding undead. When she's not writing about cursed merchants who speak in rhymes or ancient family secrets, she's plotting new ways to torment her characters (with a cup of tea in hand, naturally). Fair warning: her books may contain excessive amounts of sarcasm, magical mishaps, and the occasional supernatural shenanigan.

Reviews

[♡Molly♡ · Rating 1 out of 5]

Rating-
1/5 stars

Genre-
Fantasy

Age Rating For It-
12 or 13+ because there wasn’t anything bad in this book at all really the people in it are just older so it's more ya and thus the age rating is 12 or 13+ (note thought there is no romance which is kind of sad not going to lie)

Tropes-
Unknown past/heritage
Lost royal
Quest/destiny calling

Thoughts/Would I Recommend This?-
I felt the whole time I was reading this that the whole thing just seemed rushed in a way, and that really annoyed me. Each thing that happened instantly lead to something else, it was like I had no time to process anything that was happening or what was to come. I also did not like the sister, on multiple occasions it seemed like she did not even understand the fmc her own fricken sister and how she was. Like, the fmc when she got nervous or stressed or there was awkward silence she would make a joke to try to help relive that which is something a lot of people do so that is totally fine. Then, though the sister would always tell her that this was the “wrong time” for a joke and that she should stop, acting like this wasn’t what the fmc did to help with her stress or something she just did. Like jeez rude much it’s almost like she’s not your sister and that she hasn’t done this so much, and you are just rude to her about that like she is just doing this to help shut up. So all in all this book kind of just bugged me, and I was surprised I didn’t dnf it, and so I would honestly not recommend this book as one to read.

(Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whispers of the Selkie is a riveting urban fantasy novel with unpredictable twists and mysterious, magical and captivating adventure. The power of the sea is strong, so buckle up for a sail for unraveling truths, secrets, ancient powers, and prophecies that will ultimately leave you breathless. This is the first book in "The Enchanted Heritage Trilogy."

The story follows Morwenna Willowheart Brightwood who thought that her life was ordinary however with the arrival of a mysterious letter everything changed. This letter whispered to her, called to her to seek out the truth of who she is. Followed in quick ascension of reveals and her lineage. She along with her sister, Ava and someone who will guide through this new journey travel to Scotland where she learns about Selkies, the mythical sea creatures who apparently have a major connection to her.

As the perils get stacked, secrets are confessed and prophecies are revealed. The call of the sea will lead to the unraveling of her emotions. And just when everything was about to be out in the open, sinister dark forces came out to play.

The tethering line of survival and saviour becomes more blurred. And Morwenna cannot get caught in the whirlpool of chaos.

This book was absolutely enthralling and captivating right from the beginning. The sharp edged, fast-paced narration and enjoyable plotline with the elements of surprises, curses, anticipation, buried secrets, magic and power of the ocean, everything about this book was gripping and genuinely meticulous. The mythical sea creatures, Selkies, were one of my favourite aspects of the book. They piqued my interest as soon as I read their names. And Lucien de Noire Chevalier, an enigmatic character whose sheer presence was enough to instill a burning sense of curiosity and compelling promise. Deadly and undeniable, the only way to describe him. The author's incredible and riveting writing style was absolutely stunning right from the beginning. I cannot wait to read more books from this series.

I'd highly recommend this book to all the urban fantasy readers who are enthusiastic about mystery and intrigue with perilous undertakings.

[Chiara | wordsbychiara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for the gifted ebook. Opinions are my own.

As a kid, my dream was to be a mermaid like Ariel (no, the fact I don't know how to swim didn't stop me 😂). To this day I am immensely drawn to the mythological creatures of the sea, and this book gave me the opportunity to read up on one I didn't know much about: the selkie!

WHISPERS OF THE SELKIE is the first book in an urban fantasy / magical realism series that is perfect for fans of Deborah Harkness's All Souls Trilogy.

It follows Morwenna, a young freelance writer living in a lighthouse in Maine who hears whispers in the storm and feels an unrelenting pull to the sea. When she receives a letter that reveals she is cursed, discovering the truth about her heritage is her only salvation. Together with her sister Ava, Mor travels to the Scottish Highlands in a search for answers, but she is not the only one looking. A powerful warlock is looking for her, seeking to use her powers for his own gain.

If you love a dark and atmospheric read (that doesn't lack well-placed humor) where mystery seeps through the pages from the moment you flip the cover, then this is definitely the book for you! I was drawn into the mystery of Morwenna's heritage since the very first pages, helped by the author's beautiful, vivid descriptions. I swear I can feel the storm, and the whispers, and Morwenna's emotional turmoil so clearly while I'm reading! Every chapter adds a puzzle piece to the mystery and introduces interesting characters and lore, and I enjoyed the slow build-up.

I do wish we'd gotten to see a chapter or two of Mor's life before receiving the letter and being thrust into the action, but I did also enjoy the faster pace of the story.

Here are some things to anticipate:
- Scottish folklore and setting
- complex family dynamics
- Family secrets
- Found family
- Reluctant hero

[Maria Elena | pagesofmaria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sing me a sooong of a lass that is gooooone…

Sorry, I had to that. I keep singing this song every time I think about this book. Whispers of the Selkie is an urban fantasy mixed with magical realism that has at its center Scottish Highlands, family secrets, and an old curse.

The story follows Morwenna, who receives a mysterious letter that seems to have traveled through time itself. The letter warns her of a curse, and it tells her to “follow the whispers”—whispers that seem to be coming from the sea itself. Soon, Morwenna finds herself traveling from Portland, Maine all the way to the Scottish Highlands, in search of the truth behind her newly-discovered selkie heritage and the curse that has taken Morwenna’s mother before her.

This book fits a very specific vibe that I always love. I got very excited when I read “Scottish Highlands” in the book’s description. One could say it’s the Outlander fan in me, but it’s a setting that has always fascinated me long before I got hooked on the show. The folklore, the magic, the beauty. It’s a setting that lends itself well for many types of Fantasy stories. I enjoyed the author’s beautiful and evocative writing style, and I was intrigued by the mystery surrounding Morwenna’s heritage and the curse the letter warns her about. But what I loved most of all is probably the bond between Morwenna and her sister Ava. I simply love reading about siblings! While I did enjoy the fast pace of the book overall, I do however think there were a few instances that would have benefited from a slower pace.

Here are some tropes!
📖 Secret Heritage
❤️‍🔥 Reluctant Hero
🌊 Selkies
🧚 Scottish Folklore
🫂 Found Family
✉️ Mysterious Letters
🤫 Family Secrets
✨ Magical Realism

Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.

[Ray Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having just finished Whispers of the Selkie, and I had to reach out—I absolutely loved it! I was swept away by the atmospheric writing and the vivid world Lisa A. Moore created. I could almost hear the waves crashing and feel the salty air as Morwenna unravelled the secrets of her past.
The way Lisa wove mythology into the story felt so natural, and I was completely invested in Morwenna’s journey. Her struggles, and her determination to claim her birthright kept me hooked until the very end. And the relationship between her and Ava was so well done—it felt real, like the bond between actual sisters.
Skye was such a great addition to their journey, and I loved the tension and mystery surrounding the warlock they had to face. The twists and turns kept me on my toes, and just when I thought I knew where things were going, you surprised me. I can’t wait to see what’s next in the Enchanted Heritage Trilogy! Thank you for such a fantastic read.

[River Wolf · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to the author for this ARC copy.

Selkies are definitely under used in literature and anyone who wishes to read about these fantastical seal/human hybrids should look no further. Additionally this novel contains an excellent usage of imagery (particularly of some very stormy weather) and Scottish mythology and culture. While the book started as slow, it really got going around the 70% point and from there the intensity and pacing greatly amped up. As this is the first novel in the series, I'd anticipate that future novels would be more eventful and faster paced.

Best Suited for Readers Ages 12+

[Heena Rathore Rathore-Pardeshi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whispers of the Selkie by Lisa A. Moore is a beautifully atmospheric tale that blends Scottish folklore, family secrets, and reluctant destiny into an enchanting and immersive read. From the misty coastlines of Maine to the hauntingly beautiful Scottish Highlands, the novel integrates magic and mystery in a poetic way.

Morwenna Brightwood is the kind of protagonist I love—strong yet hesitant, grounded yet drawn to something bigger than herself. When she receives a mysterious letter that pulls her across the sea, her journey into a world of selkie legends and ancestral power begins. What I appreciated most was how real Morwenna felt—she’s not immediately fearless or eager to embrace her heritage. She questions, resists, and struggles with the idea of expectation, which makes her journey all the more compelling. Her dynamic with her sister Ava is another highlight—there’s warmth, loyalty, and just the right amount of tension that makes their bond feel genuine.

Moore’s writing is lush and lyrical, painting the setting with vivid imagery that makes you feel the salt on your skin and hear the whispers of the waves. The Scottish Highlands come alive with an almost sentient presence, making the world feel as much a character as Morwenna herself. The mythology is woven in seamlessly, giving the story a sense of depth and history. If there’s one small critique, it’s that some parts of the pacing felt a little uneven—certain revelations and moments of action could have been spread out more for maximum impact.

Overall, Whispers of the Selkie is a beautifully written and immersive story perfect for readers who love fantasy grounded in mythology, family ties, and the lure of the unknown. It’s a book that stays with you long after the final page is turned. If you love atmospheric, folklore-driven stories with complex heroines, this one is definitely worth picking up.

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the moment Whispers of the Selkie pulled me into Morwenna’s windswept world, I was utterly captivated. Lisa A. Moore masterfully blends folklore, family legacy, and the haunting beauty of the Scottish coast into a story that lingers like sea mist on the skin.

Morwenna is the kind of heroine I adore—sharp-witted, fiercely independent, and completely unprepared for the storm of secrets waiting to consume her. When a mysterious letter disrupts her quiet life in Maine, she’s thrust into a world where legends breathe and the past refuses to stay buried. The journey across the sea, the eerie pull of the Highlands, and the whispers of selkie magic create an intoxicating atmosphere that feels both timeless and urgent.

One of my favorite aspects of this book is the bond between Morwenna and her sister, Ava. Their loyalty is tested in ways that made my heart ache, proving that love—whether familial or magical—comes with its own sacrifices. The allies Morwenna meets along the way, each with murky motives and secrets of their own, kept me guessing at every turn. And the romance? It simmers beneath the surface, much like the magic in her blood, leaving me desperate for more.

Moore’s writing is lush, immersive, and brimming with the kind of melancholy beauty that makes selkie lore so irresistible. If you love stories where the sea is both a mystery and a menace, where destiny won’t take no for an answer, and where heroines must unravel ancient curses while battling their own doubts, Whispers of the Selkie is a must-read. I’ll be counting the days until the next book in The Enchanted Heritage Trilogy!.

[Fable · Rating 3 out of 5]

Whispers of the Selkie has such an intriguing premise, and the selkie mythology woven into the story is truly beautiful. I loved the idea of exploring this lesser-known folklore and the potential it held for something magical and atmospheric.

That said, the execution didn’t quite live up to the promise for me. The pacing was very slow, and at times I found myself struggling to stay engaged. I wanted to be swept away by the mystery and magic, but instead I often felt disconnected from the narrative. There were moments where I had to go back and reread the blurb just to reassure myself that the plot would eventually unfold — because it felt like very little was happening for a long stretch.

Still, there’s something to be said for the concept, and readers who enjoy slow-burn, mythology-rich fantasy might find a lot to appreciate here. For me, though, it was a mixed experience: a gorgeous premise weighed down by execution that couldn’t quite capture my attention the way I had hoped.

Thank you to NetGalley and Publisher for the opportunity to read and review.

[Kelly · Rating 1 out of 5]

We need more selkie stories, but we didn’t need this. The main character feels a shiver down her spine 59 times throughout the story and the rest of the book is just as repetitive - it feels like a very rushed, very haphazard first draft that needs a lot more editing as there are huge chunks of plot and character development missing (one moment the historian isn’t to be trusted, the next he’s so familiar the main character has memorised his facial expressions). There’s also a lot of poorly researched points which were irksome - for example the fishermen in Inverness (which is a city, not a quaint fishing town) saying how strange it is for the seals to be close to the coast… seals naturally spend a good chunk of time on beaches, it’s natural and normal and no fisherman would think twice about seeing a seal close to land.

I feel like this had promise, but it was woefully disappointing in every aspect from character, to plot, to the writing itself.

[JM Saner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Morwenna, a young woman from Maine, has always known she was adopted, and she has long felt a unique connection to the sea. When she receives a mysterious letter from Scotland written in Gaelic—with only the phrase “You are cursed” readable—she speaks with her adoptive father and decides to travel to Scotland with her stepsister, Ava, to uncover the truth about her origins. There, she meets two aunts, a hostile sorcerer, a helpful historian, and a group of unsure, leaderless selkies. She learns more about her birth mother and begins to understand her own abilities, though the mystery surrounding both her birth and adoptive mothers remains unresolved. Morwenna also faces a powerful sorcerer intent on taking her abilities, and she fears he may not be gone for good. Whispers of the Selkie is a clean, enjoyable fantasy adventure with likable characters and plenty of magical elements. A magical journey into selkie legends

[Dan Vecchi · Rating 5 out of 5]

In my search for new authors. I found Lisa A. Moore's book Whispers of the Selkie. When I discovered that it was an urban fantasy (same genre of my book) I decided to give a chance.
Moore created a fantasy universe full of puzzles, mysterious environments and a lot of twists.
This is the first book a trilogy called The enchanted Heritage. After receiving a letter the main protagonist Morwena and her sister Ava decided to embark on a journey into a mythical Scotland surrounded by magical creatures that they never imagined they would encounter.
If you like books that mix reality and fantasy, this is the perfect story for you. But do not expect any romance, as this is not a love story, at least not in the first book.

[Jackie B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the book overall. Loved that a few characters remain slightly mysterious and look forward to learning their story in upcoming books. I had never heard of selkie mythology and found this to be very intriguing. Looking forward to reading future books as there could be several ways to go with her storyline & magic. On a personal note, I very much related to Ava, so protective, cautious, & a worrier. She so stepped on my toes in a good way. I also found the inner turmoil of Morwenna to be exciting to read, never quite knowing what she was going to do. Also, hoping she finds romance during this trilogy! Definitely worth reading!

[Victoria Byram · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book did not disappoint. From the first page, the coastal atmosphere pulled me in—moody, magical, and just the right amount of eerie. Morwenna is the kind of heroine who doesn’t want the spotlight but ends up owning it anyway, and the mystery at the heart of the story kept me flipping pages way past when I should have been sleeping.
It’s a slow burn in the best way: beautifully written, rich with lore, and full of emotional depth. If you love magic that feels ancient, secrets that won’t stay buried, and a heroine you genuinely root for, this one’s for you.
Highly recommend adding it to your reading list. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series!

[T.N. Traynor · Rating 4 out of 5]

great magical read

Whispers of the Selkie was an enchanting read.
The story follows Morwenna (love the name!) whose tranquil life in Maine is sent spinning when a magical letter mysteriously arrives on the doormat.
She is summoned to Bonny Scotland where she uncovers her selkie heritage.
The storytelling is great, plenty of description and character. The main characters are interesting and likeable. Lots of magic and mystery.

[Persephone · Rating 3 out of 5]

As much as I wanted to love this book, I just couldn’t get sucked into it. The concept was promising and the mythology surrounding Selkies is beautiful, I just wish the story had the ability to garner more of my attention.

Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC