What do you think?
Rate this book
The Salt Bind
Not yet published
Expected 22 Jan 26Cornwall, 1779: 'I am the wise woman on this shore. I am the land to which the tide bows.'
On a late August evening Kensa comes across a dying sea monster under the light of a full moon. The first of its kind to grace the storm-torn shore of Portscatho in centuries, it is an omen...
For scarlet-haired Kensa, daughter of the most feared smuggler to ever roam the Cornish coast, her destiny is sealed as apprentice to the local wise woman. Under the guidance of Isolde, Kensa learns secrets of the Old Ways, the ancient magic that binds the land and sea.
But when Isolde sickens Kensa turns to the Bucka, the Father of Storms, a vengeful sea god chained to the ocean. Desperate to save her mentor, Kensa makes a deal with the deadly creature; a pact that risks everything she's sworn to protect.
The Salt Bind is an unputdownable and hypnotising historical fantasy page-turner steeped in salt, superstition and seafolk - a world of forgotten sirens, sea gods and the alchemy of the Old Ways. Perfect for fans of The Bear and the Nightingale, Spinning Silver and The Binding.
On a late August evening Kensa comes across a dying sea monster under the light of a full moon. The first of its kind to grace the storm-torn shore of Portscatho in centuries, it is an omen...
For scarlet-haired Kensa, daughter of the most feared smuggler to ever roam the Cornish coast, her destiny is sealed as apprentice to the local wise woman. Under the guidance of Isolde, Kensa learns secrets of the Old Ways, the ancient magic that binds the land and sea.
But when Isolde sickens Kensa turns to the Bucka, the Father of Storms, a vengeful sea god chained to the ocean. Desperate to save her mentor, Kensa makes a deal with the deadly creature; a pact that risks everything she's sworn to protect.
The Salt Bind is an unputdownable and hypnotising historical fantasy page-turner steeped in salt, superstition and seafolk - a world of forgotten sirens, sea gods and the alchemy of the Old Ways. Perfect for fans of The Bear and the Nightingale, Spinning Silver and The Binding.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 27, 2026
6174 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Ferrier
3 books29 followersRebecca Ferrier is an award-winning writer based in Edinburgh. In 2022, she was awarded a place on the RSE-funded Death Writes network, supported by The University of Glasgow Arts Lab.
Her debut novel, The Salt Bind comes out in September 2025 with Renegade, an imprint of Dialogue Books, Hachette.
She was a UNESCO City of Literature writer-in-residence at the Melbourne Literary Festival in 2021, hosted by Emerging Writers Festival. Rebecca was also part of the first All Stories development cohort and her debut novel secured funding from Creative Scotland.
Prior to that, she was the winner of the 2020 Bridge Award.
Rebecca is represented by Alex Cochran at Greyhound Literary.
Her debut novel, The Salt Bind comes out in September 2025 with Renegade, an imprint of Dialogue Books, Hachette.
She was a UNESCO City of Literature writer-in-residence at the Melbourne Literary Festival in 2021, hosted by Emerging Writers Festival. Rebecca was also part of the first All Stories development cohort and her debut novel secured funding from Creative Scotland.
Prior to that, she was the winner of the 2020 Bridge Award.
Rebecca is represented by Alex Cochran at Greyhound Literary.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
June 12, 2025
This book started out soooo good. I was sucked in by the writing and the tantalizingly unique story. But then…. meh. It turned into something that’s been done a million times already (and with more skill by other authors).
I found myself skipping through the last chapters, just to be done with it, due to the climax being so drawn out.
With that being said, there is obvious excellence in storytelling here, so it’s possible that my opinion will eventually reside amongst the minority. I think the beginning represented a “promise” (to me, at least) that the rest of the book would feel as new and fresh.
I’d give this book a 3.75, rounded up to a 4 based on the solid character arc, decent story structure, and intriguing writing style.
I found myself skipping through the last chapters, just to be done with it, due to the climax being so drawn out.
With that being said, there is obvious excellence in storytelling here, so it’s possible that my opinion will eventually reside amongst the minority. I think the beginning represented a “promise” (to me, at least) that the rest of the book would feel as new and fresh.
I’d give this book a 3.75, rounded up to a 4 based on the solid character arc, decent story structure, and intriguing writing style.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A dark fairytale rooted in Cornish folklore with sea monsters and a mysterious sea god.
I think this will work for fans of historical fiction touched with a bit of the fantastical.
This is a quick read with immersive writing and an interesting plot but moves a little slower than I typically prefer.
Whats to love…
- sea creatures!
- folklore and dark fairytale vibes
- a bit of mystery
- romantic subplot
- themes of sisterhood
- immersive writing
- interesting seaside setting.
Whats not to love…
- While I do think plenty of things happened during the course of the book, the first half felt slow in comparison to the ending.
3.5⭐️| IG | TikTok |
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
I think this will work for fans of historical fiction touched with a bit of the fantastical.
This is a quick read with immersive writing and an interesting plot but moves a little slower than I typically prefer.
Whats to love…
- sea creatures!
- folklore and dark fairytale vibes
- a bit of mystery
- romantic subplot
- themes of sisterhood
- immersive writing
- interesting seaside setting.
Whats not to love…
- While I do think plenty of things happened during the course of the book, the first half felt slow in comparison to the ending.
3.5⭐️| IG | TikTok |
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
August 16, 2025
**4,25/5**
Thank you so much Dialogue Books | Renegade Books for the arc!
„You were determined to do everything alone and I saw how lonely it made you. I don't think you realized that it made me lonely too.“
🌊 Folklore sea creatures
🌊 Small-town setting
🌊 Sisterly bond
🌊 Gothic fairytale vibes
🌊 Romance side plot
What I liked:
The atmosphere was absolutely outstanding; I could almost feel the wetness of the ocean and the salt in the air! The setting, too, was fantastic and right up my alley! A small coastal town between the 18th and the 19th, with a community torn between Christianity and the Old Ways.
I also absolutely loved the romance side plot! It’s very subtle and slow-burn, and I’m so happy how it turned out for the pair!
What I didn’t like:
I wished the main character would have developed a bit more throughout the story. I understand that she has an impulsive and stubborn character, but after a while she should really have learned, that her rash actions have consequences!
Writing style: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Story & Plot: 4/5
Vibes: 5/5
Thank you so much Dialogue Books | Renegade Books for the arc!
„You were determined to do everything alone and I saw how lonely it made you. I don't think you realized that it made me lonely too.“
🌊 Folklore sea creatures
🌊 Small-town setting
🌊 Sisterly bond
🌊 Gothic fairytale vibes
🌊 Romance side plot
What I liked:
The atmosphere was absolutely outstanding; I could almost feel the wetness of the ocean and the salt in the air! The setting, too, was fantastic and right up my alley! A small coastal town between the 18th and the 19th, with a community torn between Christianity and the Old Ways.
I also absolutely loved the romance side plot! It’s very subtle and slow-burn, and I’m so happy how it turned out for the pair!
What I didn’t like:
I wished the main character would have developed a bit more throughout the story. I understand that she has an impulsive and stubborn character, but after a while she should really have learned, that her rash actions have consequences!
Writing style: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Story & Plot: 4/5
Vibes: 5/5
November 23, 2025
Shout out to Alcove Press for giving me an opportunity to review an advanced reader copy of A Spell for Drowning.
Being a huge fan of mythology, this book, especially the cover and title, caught my eye. I’ll admit, Cornish mythology is a world I am unfamiliar with, which did not take away from the book at all in my opinion.
The story had my attention from the beginning and captured my curiosity from middle to end. The writing is beautiful notably with diction that sets a salty mood.
At times, pacing felt awkward, and the romance story line did not have me completely sold. I can’t say I was in love with the main character, Kensa, but then enjoyed where her character arc ended up.
Overall this would be a perfect book for someone looking for witchy (and sometimes even spooky mermaid) vibes with a side of Pet Semetary and a heavy theme of finding one’s place in life.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
4/5 stars
Being a huge fan of mythology, this book, especially the cover and title, caught my eye. I’ll admit, Cornish mythology is a world I am unfamiliar with, which did not take away from the book at all in my opinion.
The story had my attention from the beginning and captured my curiosity from middle to end. The writing is beautiful notably with diction that sets a salty mood.
At times, pacing felt awkward, and the romance story line did not have me completely sold. I can’t say I was in love with the main character, Kensa, but then enjoyed where her character arc ended up.
Overall this would be a perfect book for someone looking for witchy (and sometimes even spooky mermaid) vibes with a side of Pet Semetary and a heavy theme of finding one’s place in life.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
4/5 stars
August 10, 2025
Thank you to Alcove Press and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of A Spell for Drowning in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
There were several aspects that resonated with me while reading this book—the intriguing setting, the mix of uneasiness and enchantment in the otherwise ordinary town, and the threads of Cornish folklore woven throughout. The story carries a deeper, almost heritage-like quality and reads at times like a fairytale.
I’m a bit conflicted about how to rate this. I can see the value in the story, and I hope it reaches its intended audience. Perhaps I just wasn’t the right reader for it. I found it difficult to get into, and the pacing felt off to me, which made it challenging to stay engaged.
This wasn’t quite what I expected, but I won’t be harsh—there’s no need for that. I believe this book will find its readers, and for those who connect with it, it will likely be an immersive and rewarding experience.
Goodreads rating: 2.5 stars
There were several aspects that resonated with me while reading this book—the intriguing setting, the mix of uneasiness and enchantment in the otherwise ordinary town, and the threads of Cornish folklore woven throughout. The story carries a deeper, almost heritage-like quality and reads at times like a fairytale.
I’m a bit conflicted about how to rate this. I can see the value in the story, and I hope it reaches its intended audience. Perhaps I just wasn’t the right reader for it. I found it difficult to get into, and the pacing felt off to me, which made it challenging to stay engaged.
This wasn’t quite what I expected, but I won’t be harsh—there’s no need for that. I believe this book will find its readers, and for those who connect with it, it will likely be an immersive and rewarding experience.
Goodreads rating: 2.5 stars
May 25, 2025
A Spell for Drowning blew my expectations out of the water. It is so deep, kinda scary, and a bit funny here and there too. At no point was I able to predict what was going to happen, so it definitely kept me on my toes
The story is about Kensa, who is ostracized by the village because of who her father was. One day when trying to find where her sister, Elowyn, has wandered off to she sees her next to a beached sea monster and from there, decides to lie and says it was her who found it, thus taking the place to become a Wise woman. Eventually she begins her training and strange things start to unfold after Kensa tries to help heal her sick sister. She has to learn what pacts she must make, sacrifices, and take lessons in the hard way.
I found this book to be a very interesting read, its piqued my interest and curiosity for Cornish Folklore. l enjoyed the humorous bits, the horror, the magic and creatures. It's a great read, I highly recommend it especially to people that like their fantasy to be a bit scary.
(I received this as a arc)
The story is about Kensa, who is ostracized by the village because of who her father was. One day when trying to find where her sister, Elowyn, has wandered off to she sees her next to a beached sea monster and from there, decides to lie and says it was her who found it, thus taking the place to become a Wise woman. Eventually she begins her training and strange things start to unfold after Kensa tries to help heal her sick sister. She has to learn what pacts she must make, sacrifices, and take lessons in the hard way.
I found this book to be a very interesting read, its piqued my interest and curiosity for Cornish Folklore. l enjoyed the humorous bits, the horror, the magic and creatures. It's a great read, I highly recommend it especially to people that like their fantasy to be a bit scary.
(I received this as a arc)
August 26, 2025
Thanks to netgalley & the publisher for this eArc :)
I requested this ARC from NetGalley after reading the premise—two sisters find a sea monster washed up on the shore, a discovery that ties their destinies to the role of the village wise woman. I was intrigued by the mythology: the creature revealed to be a magical woman who had traded her life on land to keep a pact between land and sea. Whoever discovered her first would inherit the mantle of wise woman—though Kensa, our protagonist, lies about being the one to find her.
The atmosphere was gorgeous, with writing that felt moody and windswept, perfectly fitting the Cornish folklore woven throughout. The grey, coastal tone was vivid and comforting, almost cinematic.
Where the story faltered for me was in the pacing and characters. Despite spanning many stages of Kensa’s life, it felt long for its length, and the timeline sometimes disoriented me. And while I appreciated that Kensa’s choices were explained, I found her hard to like. She could be cruel to her sister and repeatedly made decisions that distanced me from rooting for her. Without a strong emotional anchor in the characters, the haunting setting had to carry the story alone.
That said, as a debut this shows real promise. The concept and atmosphere were brilliant, and I’ll definitely keep an eye on Ferrier’s future work.
I requested this ARC from NetGalley after reading the premise—two sisters find a sea monster washed up on the shore, a discovery that ties their destinies to the role of the village wise woman. I was intrigued by the mythology: the creature revealed to be a magical woman who had traded her life on land to keep a pact between land and sea. Whoever discovered her first would inherit the mantle of wise woman—though Kensa, our protagonist, lies about being the one to find her.
The atmosphere was gorgeous, with writing that felt moody and windswept, perfectly fitting the Cornish folklore woven throughout. The grey, coastal tone was vivid and comforting, almost cinematic.
Where the story faltered for me was in the pacing and characters. Despite spanning many stages of Kensa’s life, it felt long for its length, and the timeline sometimes disoriented me. And while I appreciated that Kensa’s choices were explained, I found her hard to like. She could be cruel to her sister and repeatedly made decisions that distanced me from rooting for her. Without a strong emotional anchor in the characters, the haunting setting had to carry the story alone.
That said, as a debut this shows real promise. The concept and atmosphere were brilliant, and I’ll definitely keep an eye on Ferrier’s future work.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
An immersive, magical and dark fairytale
From the very first page, I found myself drawn into this spellbinding fable set in Cornwall 1779. As a fan of gothic and historical fiction, and enjoying elements of folklore, mythology, fantasy and fairytales, I was set up for an enjoyable read and what a joy this was.
When Kensa hunts for her sister, Elowen, one evening, she discovers her at the side of a dying sea monster. Kensa claims a destiny to be the apprentice to Portscatho’s wise woman, Isolde, a destiny that should not have been rightly hers.
Kensa is a spirited young lady, who feels unwanted and disliked by the townspeople. She has not recovered from the circumstances surrounding the death of her father, and this deeply impacts her attitude and interactions with folk. She has a strained relationship with her half-sister, Elowen, a typical sibling love/hate relationship and this story theme weaves throughout the story. I connected with Kensa and her sister Elowen in so many ways, both deep characters with mystery and I found myself hoping for everything to resolve and happiness and direction to be found.
This story is full of superstition and ancient magic and woven really well into the rugged mystery and legends that surround Cornwall to this day. We meet sea creatures, a sea god, death and a ghoul/zombie and strangely reminded me of all the dark fairytales I grew up with (nothing P.C in my day!).
Also including a little romance, humour and hope, my only slight criticism was the ending lost a little impact but still had me turning the pages to get to the end. I completely recommend this read if you like something a little different. Hoping for another read from Rebecca in the future, really good.
Thank you to Dialogue Books and Rebecca Ferrier for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Due to be published on 22 January 2026.
From the very first page, I found myself drawn into this spellbinding fable set in Cornwall 1779. As a fan of gothic and historical fiction, and enjoying elements of folklore, mythology, fantasy and fairytales, I was set up for an enjoyable read and what a joy this was.
When Kensa hunts for her sister, Elowen, one evening, she discovers her at the side of a dying sea monster. Kensa claims a destiny to be the apprentice to Portscatho’s wise woman, Isolde, a destiny that should not have been rightly hers.
Kensa is a spirited young lady, who feels unwanted and disliked by the townspeople. She has not recovered from the circumstances surrounding the death of her father, and this deeply impacts her attitude and interactions with folk. She has a strained relationship with her half-sister, Elowen, a typical sibling love/hate relationship and this story theme weaves throughout the story. I connected with Kensa and her sister Elowen in so many ways, both deep characters with mystery and I found myself hoping for everything to resolve and happiness and direction to be found.
This story is full of superstition and ancient magic and woven really well into the rugged mystery and legends that surround Cornwall to this day. We meet sea creatures, a sea god, death and a ghoul/zombie and strangely reminded me of all the dark fairytales I grew up with (nothing P.C in my day!).
Also including a little romance, humour and hope, my only slight criticism was the ending lost a little impact but still had me turning the pages to get to the end. I completely recommend this read if you like something a little different. Hoping for another read from Rebecca in the future, really good.
Thank you to Dialogue Books and Rebecca Ferrier for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Due to be published on 22 January 2026.
December 2, 2025
I picked up this book several times, never quite being able to start it. I finally decided to try again and blew through most of the book in two days.
Focused on the town of Portscatho and the people within it, this book follows Kensa’s journey in becoming a wise woman. Throughout, there is a wonderful blend of Cornish folklore, sisterhood, and what it means to truly find acceptance within a society.
Kensa herself was an interesting protagonist to follow. I struggled at times with the book, even though I found her beginnings as an outcast and training as a wise woman believable, I just became very frustrated at many decisions she made. To the point where I needed to pause and rub my eyes in frustration at times. Perhaps this is indicative of her being a believable/fallible/well-written character, I’m still a bit undecided.
My other critique would be the drastic shift from part one to part two. Obviously there should be a clear line between parts in a book, but I found that it wasn’t just delineated by a significant event, but by the writing style as well. Certain characters, especially a new one, fell a little flat for me at times. The pacing and several key events also didn’t feel like they amounted to what they could have been. Nevertheless, I really loved the constant exploration of the relationship between the two sisters and how it grew over time.
Overall though, I really enjoyed this book, specifically the relationships between characters, folklore, and the setting itself. I understand why it was recommended to readers who like “Circe,” but it is still a very different type of story.
Disclaimer: I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley but all reviews are my own
Focused on the town of Portscatho and the people within it, this book follows Kensa’s journey in becoming a wise woman. Throughout, there is a wonderful blend of Cornish folklore, sisterhood, and what it means to truly find acceptance within a society.
Kensa herself was an interesting protagonist to follow. I struggled at times with the book, even though I found her beginnings as an outcast and training as a wise woman believable, I just became very frustrated at many decisions she made. To the point where I needed to pause and rub my eyes in frustration at times. Perhaps this is indicative of her being a believable/fallible/well-written character, I’m still a bit undecided.
My other critique would be the drastic shift from part one to part two. Obviously there should be a clear line between parts in a book, but I found that it wasn’t just delineated by a significant event, but by the writing style as well. Certain characters, especially a new one, fell a little flat for me at times. The pacing and several key events also didn’t feel like they amounted to what they could have been. Nevertheless, I really loved the constant exploration of the relationship between the two sisters and how it grew over time.
Overall though, I really enjoyed this book, specifically the relationships between characters, folklore, and the setting itself. I understand why it was recommended to readers who like “Circe,” but it is still a very different type of story.
Disclaimer: I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley but all reviews are my own
June 25, 2025
I was intrigued by the concept of a witch story set in the beautiful coast of Cornwall steeped in Cornish folklore, with very little romance for once. But ultimately this just didn't work for me because I couldn't connect to the characters.
Ostracized Kensa, whose late father was a smuggler, has always longed to be loved and belong somewhere, so she lies and jumps at an opportunity to become the town's wise woman. This is a witch and healer versed in the Old Ways who makes a Pact with the Folk to chain her to this place to keep monsters at bay. I liked how this wasn't the kind of Disney fairy tale but it showed the darker, sinister side of folklore. The descriptions of sirens and the Bucka were the most interesting part.
While I understood her motivations to become a wise woman, I couldn't understand why Kensa stayed, to essentially become enslaved. I also couldn't understand her desperation to use necromancy on a sister she didn't really know all that well and a secretive mentor who lied to her and treated her with disdain. She hated the village and felt resigned to this path, so why did she stay? I couldn't understand what was keeping her there. I did like her complicated relationship with her smuggler father.
I was also hoping for a more atmospheric story that touched more deeply on Cornish folklore and traditions. It almost felt like it could have been set anywhere in the UK.
I'm trying to read more witchy books but when they don't work for me, they lose the story and characters in service to the witch element.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ostracized Kensa, whose late father was a smuggler, has always longed to be loved and belong somewhere, so she lies and jumps at an opportunity to become the town's wise woman. This is a witch and healer versed in the Old Ways who makes a Pact with the Folk to chain her to this place to keep monsters at bay. I liked how this wasn't the kind of Disney fairy tale but it showed the darker, sinister side of folklore. The descriptions of sirens and the Bucka were the most interesting part.
While I understood her motivations to become a wise woman, I couldn't understand why Kensa stayed, to essentially become enslaved. I also couldn't understand her desperation to use necromancy on a sister she didn't really know all that well and a secretive mentor who lied to her and treated her with disdain. She hated the village and felt resigned to this path, so why did she stay? I couldn't understand what was keeping her there. I did like her complicated relationship with her smuggler father.
I was also hoping for a more atmospheric story that touched more deeply on Cornish folklore and traditions. It almost felt like it could have been set anywhere in the UK.
I'm trying to read more witchy books but when they don't work for me, they lose the story and characters in service to the witch element.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 19, 2025
I’m a big fan of dark seaside fantasies, so early on I saw a lot of promise in this book. From the first chapter, the world instantly felt real and complete, and Kensa seemed an interesting protagonist to follow: the underdog who eventually rose above by acquiring magic.
In theory, A Spell for Drowning is a great concept, but I do think the pacing could have been a bit better, and the characters more rounded. The pacing thing is a bit tricky since the book follows Kensa over many years of her life; at one point the momentum is just lost and became difficult to regain. And on the characters: I feel like we only ever got to see one side of everyone, which made it hard to redeem their choices and make them worth caring for.
read as an arc, courtesy of Netgalley
In theory, A Spell for Drowning is a great concept, but I do think the pacing could have been a bit better, and the characters more rounded. The pacing thing is a bit tricky since the book follows Kensa over many years of her life; at one point the momentum is just lost and became difficult to regain. And on the characters: I feel like we only ever got to see one side of everyone, which made it hard to redeem their choices and make them worth caring for.
read as an arc, courtesy of Netgalley
June 5, 2025
There’s something about this book that feels like a whispered warning and a lullaby all at once. A Spell for Drowning caught me completely off guard—in the best way. It’s eerie, poetic, and steeped in that peculiar kind of magic that creeps up on you: slow, coastal, cold to the bone.
Kensa’s story unfolds in a remote village weighed down by fear, suspicion, and old pacts. Her journey begins with a lie—one that feels small at first, almost necessary—and unravels into something far more dangerous. The further she goes, the more the story digs into themes of sacrifice, consequence, and what it means to claim power that was never freely given.
There’s folklore in these pages that feels lived-in. The sea monster, the rites, the wise women—it’s all wrapped in a fog of Cornish myth and memory. I never knew what direction the story would take, and I loved that. There’s a quiet unpredictability that kept me on edge, like the tide pulling back before a storm.
But what really made this stand out was the tone: part horror, part dark fairytale, part bittersweet coming-of-age. It’s filled with oddities and strange, beautiful creatures—and yes, some surprisingly funny moments too, like the kind of dry humor you’d find in an old folk tale told late at night.
If you love atmospheric stories with folklore roots, stories that unsettle while enchanting, A Spell for Drowning is a must-read. It's the kind of book that stays with you—not because it shouts, but because it haunts.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC. I didn’t expect this book to find me the way it did, but I’m so glad it did.
Kensa’s story unfolds in a remote village weighed down by fear, suspicion, and old pacts. Her journey begins with a lie—one that feels small at first, almost necessary—and unravels into something far more dangerous. The further she goes, the more the story digs into themes of sacrifice, consequence, and what it means to claim power that was never freely given.
There’s folklore in these pages that feels lived-in. The sea monster, the rites, the wise women—it’s all wrapped in a fog of Cornish myth and memory. I never knew what direction the story would take, and I loved that. There’s a quiet unpredictability that kept me on edge, like the tide pulling back before a storm.
But what really made this stand out was the tone: part horror, part dark fairytale, part bittersweet coming-of-age. It’s filled with oddities and strange, beautiful creatures—and yes, some surprisingly funny moments too, like the kind of dry humor you’d find in an old folk tale told late at night.
If you love atmospheric stories with folklore roots, stories that unsettle while enchanting, A Spell for Drowning is a must-read. It's the kind of book that stays with you—not because it shouts, but because it haunts.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC. I didn’t expect this book to find me the way it did, but I’m so glad it did.
July 25, 2025
3.5 stars - I'm feeling a little bit conflicted on this one. On the one hand, the atmosphere was fantastic. On the other hand, I just never felt strongly for the characters.
A spell for drowning is an eerie dive into Cornish folklore. Kensa, our protagonist, becomes an apprentice to the wise woman Isolde after she and her sister Elowen discover a dying sea monster on the beach. After a few months of training with Isolde, Elowen becomes ill, and Kensa asks Isolde to do anything she can to save her. The bargain causes Isolde to become ill as well, and Kensa goes to extraordinary lengths to prevent losing her, including seeking help from the Bucka, a sea god living in the ocean near the village of Portscatho.
The description of this book compared it to Circe and The Bear and the Nightingale, and while I can see where the comparisons are coming from, I didn't think this was quite as good as those other series that I love. While the atmosphere and writing were fantastic, and while I loved the dive into Cornish history, I never felt as much for the characters as I wanted to. Kensa was strong, but Elowen could have been much more compelling. And there was something about the pacing that just felt a bit off.
But if you're looking for something vibey for this upcoming winter/fall, I think the setting alone could make this a pretty good read.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher and the ARC!
A spell for drowning is an eerie dive into Cornish folklore. Kensa, our protagonist, becomes an apprentice to the wise woman Isolde after she and her sister Elowen discover a dying sea monster on the beach. After a few months of training with Isolde, Elowen becomes ill, and Kensa asks Isolde to do anything she can to save her. The bargain causes Isolde to become ill as well, and Kensa goes to extraordinary lengths to prevent losing her, including seeking help from the Bucka, a sea god living in the ocean near the village of Portscatho.
The description of this book compared it to Circe and The Bear and the Nightingale, and while I can see where the comparisons are coming from, I didn't think this was quite as good as those other series that I love. While the atmosphere and writing were fantastic, and while I loved the dive into Cornish history, I never felt as much for the characters as I wanted to. Kensa was strong, but Elowen could have been much more compelling. And there was something about the pacing that just felt a bit off.
But if you're looking for something vibey for this upcoming winter/fall, I think the setting alone could make this a pretty good read.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher and the ARC!
August 1, 2025
4.5/5 stars rounded up. A Spell for Drowning was such a wonderful surprise as I went in blind without knowing much about Rebecca Ferrier and her other works. The prose was fantastic and the characters were extremely engaging. It doesn't hurt that I'm also a sucker for books with strong elements of mythology.
I found myself at the start struggling to connect with the main character Kensa, almost reminiscent of how I felt reading C.S. Lewis' Till We Have Faces. Both books tell a story from the perspective of the outcast and somewhat bitter sister that leaves you very frustrated at times. However we get to watch Kensa come of age and become a very empathetic character as she tries to do what's right.
The author also lets the reader do the work to connect characters, relationships and events without hitting you over the head with clunky exposition. Often there would be interactions where you'd have to read between the lines to fully understand the undertones. I appreciate reading a well-crafted book where the author trusts the reader!
My only knock on the book was that the pacing got a little off in the last chunk of the book. I almost wanted the story to breath a little and not quite rush into the climax. Additionally, I was disappointed to learn that this is a stand-alone and not part of a series. I would love to follow Kensa and the residents of Portscatho more and feel like there's so much more to explore!
Thank you Alcove Press and Net Galley for the ARC!
I found myself at the start struggling to connect with the main character Kensa, almost reminiscent of how I felt reading C.S. Lewis' Till We Have Faces. Both books tell a story from the perspective of the outcast and somewhat bitter sister that leaves you very frustrated at times. However we get to watch Kensa come of age and become a very empathetic character as she tries to do what's right.
The author also lets the reader do the work to connect characters, relationships and events without hitting you over the head with clunky exposition. Often there would be interactions where you'd have to read between the lines to fully understand the undertones. I appreciate reading a well-crafted book where the author trusts the reader!
My only knock on the book was that the pacing got a little off in the last chunk of the book. I almost wanted the story to breath a little and not quite rush into the climax. Additionally, I was disappointed to learn that this is a stand-alone and not part of a series. I would love to follow Kensa and the residents of Portscatho more and feel like there's so much more to explore!
Thank you Alcove Press and Net Galley for the ARC!
June 13, 2025
From debut author Rebecca Ferrier comes a dark, atmospheric tale laced with seafoam and bile. Fans of Ava Reid and Erin A. Craig will love this sea-swept tale of magic, love, and sisterhood.
It's rare for a book to have a main character as unlikable and Kensa and still manage to create such an engaging story. I often found Kensa overly selfish and irritating, and while I appreciate the development she went through, I do feel that her character development was slightly rushed around the end. All of the characters were so interesting and I wish I could know more about them! I especially loved the ending, and I sincerely hope we aren't done with tales of the Bucka and his life as a human just yet.
The writing and setting were the true jewels of this book. All of my knowledge of Cornwall comes from Poldark, so I was fascinated by the snippets of mythology combined with the rugged setting that brought new depth to such an ancient place.
Rebecca Ferrier's writing is exquisite and visceral in this book - she has a true talent for darkly whimsical storytelling. That being said, the writing could be too dense at times and made it difficult to discern what was happening at first glance. In all, though, A Spell for Drowning is the perfect read for fans of dark historical fantasy with its rich sense of place, intricate imagery, and complex characters.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Alcove Press for the eARC!
It's rare for a book to have a main character as unlikable and Kensa and still manage to create such an engaging story. I often found Kensa overly selfish and irritating, and while I appreciate the development she went through, I do feel that her character development was slightly rushed around the end. All of the characters were so interesting and I wish I could know more about them! I especially loved the ending, and I sincerely hope we aren't done with tales of the Bucka and his life as a human just yet.
The writing and setting were the true jewels of this book. All of my knowledge of Cornwall comes from Poldark, so I was fascinated by the snippets of mythology combined with the rugged setting that brought new depth to such an ancient place.
Rebecca Ferrier's writing is exquisite and visceral in this book - she has a true talent for darkly whimsical storytelling. That being said, the writing could be too dense at times and made it difficult to discern what was happening at first glance. In all, though, A Spell for Drowning is the perfect read for fans of dark historical fantasy with its rich sense of place, intricate imagery, and complex characters.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Alcove Press for the eARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2025
I’m conflicted about this book: the worldbuilding and mythos are absolutely outstanding but I didn’t like the book all that much. Definite first book vibes.
I loved the characters. I loved that Kensa was an unreliable narrator but in a transparent way - she wasn’t hiding anything from us necessarily, but she was naive and sometimes downright stupid. But there were parts of the book where the plot was thin, or rushed through, and it felt covered up by the poetic, flowery language of the author. I would reread whole paragraphs to figure out nothing happened.
Overall this is a great debut fantasy novel and I look forward to reading more by Ferrier in the future!
Thank you to NetGalley, Rebecca Ferrier, and Alcove Press for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the characters. I loved that Kensa was an unreliable narrator but in a transparent way - she wasn’t hiding anything from us necessarily, but she was naive and sometimes downright stupid. But there were parts of the book where the plot was thin, or rushed through, and it felt covered up by the poetic, flowery language of the author. I would reread whole paragraphs to figure out nothing happened.
Overall this is a great debut fantasy novel and I look forward to reading more by Ferrier in the future!
Thank you to NetGalley, Rebecca Ferrier, and Alcove Press for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2025
a haunting tale of Cornish folklore and legend! a great debut for sure
Read
July 18, 2025First, just look at that gorgeous cover art!
Second, I recommend this book for fans of "The weaver and the witch queen" by Genevieve Gornichec.
I love that the Cornish setting and place names are real.
Due to her father's ill-repute and being an outsider in her own stepfamily, I can understand Kensa's desire for prominence or position of superiority. However, I don't like her as a character because she swings between being over-confident and entitled to an insecure, defensive liar and back.
Either it was so vaguely described or not mentioned at all so Kensa's sudden "I can't lose him" attitude toward Jack seems to come out of nowhere. Sure, they've known each other for years but they rarely interact and there's no romance implied when they do. I wouldn't even call them friends. Was the author forced to add a romance?
I'm proud of myself for managing to finish this book. I got 35% in and didn't like any of the characters. I got 50% in and still didn't like any of the characters. The plot was just interesting enough for me to want to see what happened next. I found this book confusing and annoying at times. The ending made it worthwhile.
The synopsis on NetGalley made this book out to be more than the first-person narrative of a whiny, self-absorbed child that it is. I believe the author's intention may have been for the reader to see the inner growth of Kensa's character when she finally becomes the wise woman. That happened far too late in the book for me to like her as a character. Perhaps if there had been more vignettes about life after the battle and Kensa settling into life as the wise woman, it wouldn't have felt so anticlimactic for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read it.
Second, I recommend this book for fans of "The weaver and the witch queen" by Genevieve Gornichec.
I love that the Cornish setting and place names are real.
Due to her father's ill-repute and being an outsider in her own stepfamily, I can understand Kensa's desire for prominence or position of superiority. However, I don't like her as a character because she swings between being over-confident and entitled to an insecure, defensive liar and back.
Either it was so vaguely described or not mentioned at all so Kensa's sudden "I can't lose him" attitude toward Jack seems to come out of nowhere. Sure, they've known each other for years but they rarely interact and there's no romance implied when they do. I wouldn't even call them friends. Was the author forced to add a romance?
I'm proud of myself for managing to finish this book. I got 35% in and didn't like any of the characters. I got 50% in and still didn't like any of the characters. The plot was just interesting enough for me to want to see what happened next. I found this book confusing and annoying at times. The ending made it worthwhile.
The synopsis on NetGalley made this book out to be more than the first-person narrative of a whiny, self-absorbed child that it is. I believe the author's intention may have been for the reader to see the inner growth of Kensa's character when she finally becomes the wise woman. That happened far too late in the book for me to like her as a character. Perhaps if there had been more vignettes about life after the battle and Kensa settling into life as the wise woman, it wouldn't have felt so anticlimactic for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read it.
May 26, 2025
This magical tale is surely a good read if this is the type of novel you are looking for. The time setting is in the late eighteenth century and is combined with cornish folklore. The moral of the story is that when someone comes into great power they also come into the great responsibility of maintaining it.
Our main character Kensa has always felt like an outsider in her village based on the bad deeds of her father. One day when out looking for her sister she finds her with this beached sea monster and legend has it whoever finds it becomes a wise woman. Knowing that she'll never earn the respect of her village if she doesn't take on this role she decides to take credit for finding it.
Kensa then presumes the duties of training as a wise woman with the help of another wise woman named Isolde. From there she will learn that it is a role that comes with great responsibility. Dhr also learns that sometimes the role comes with great loss that can only be endured as well. Overall this was a very interesting read.
I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own.
Our main character Kensa has always felt like an outsider in her village based on the bad deeds of her father. One day when out looking for her sister she finds her with this beached sea monster and legend has it whoever finds it becomes a wise woman. Knowing that she'll never earn the respect of her village if she doesn't take on this role she decides to take credit for finding it.
Kensa then presumes the duties of training as a wise woman with the help of another wise woman named Isolde. From there she will learn that it is a role that comes with great responsibility. Dhr also learns that sometimes the role comes with great loss that can only be endured as well. Overall this was a very interesting read.
I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own.
June 15, 2025
A Spell for Drowning took Cornish folklore and made it accessible in a moving story about the love between siblings and for a mentor. In A Spell for Drowning, we follow Kensa, a girl when the book begins, that feels disconnected from others around her due to her parentage. This spurs her to seize the opportunity to train with Isolde, the wise woman in the area, and learn healing and the old ways of the land. What ensues is a series of unfortunate choices and reactions by Kensa that lead her deeper and deeper into the relationship between the land and the sea as well as her role therein as the wise woman of Portscatho.
The story spends a fair amount of time exploring coming-of-age themes as well as the tumultuous relationships within Kensa's family - most notably with her half-sister Elowen, before finally settling into atmospheric horror with a bittersweet ending. This book felt like old stories parents told to children to keep them from wandering too far from home or staying out too late. Unfortunately for Kensa, she didn't head these warnings. Fortunately for us, this led to an interesting story that held my attention and left me wondering as to whether I would have had the strength of character to make different choices, even with what feels like a stronger sense for danger than Kensa had.
Thank you to NetGalley and Alcove Press for the opportunity to read and review A Spell for Drowning.
The story spends a fair amount of time exploring coming-of-age themes as well as the tumultuous relationships within Kensa's family - most notably with her half-sister Elowen, before finally settling into atmospheric horror with a bittersweet ending. This book felt like old stories parents told to children to keep them from wandering too far from home or staying out too late. Unfortunately for Kensa, she didn't head these warnings. Fortunately for us, this led to an interesting story that held my attention and left me wondering as to whether I would have had the strength of character to make different choices, even with what feels like a stronger sense for danger than Kensa had.
Thank you to NetGalley and Alcove Press for the opportunity to read and review A Spell for Drowning.
March 12, 2025
Rebecca Ferrier's The Salt Bind is a remarkable novel about sisterhood, grief, empowerment, class, community, and, of course, the enchanting qualities of the sea and all the power that resides within. Ferrier's depictions of the seaside landscape are spellbinding, and her writing is suffused with a gorgeous poetic voice that remains precise and engaging.
Rooted in the folklore and history of the Cornish coast, we follow (and fall in love with) Kensa as she navigates her life as a wise woman and learns the way of The Pact – a pact between the land and the sea. As readers, we are constantly at the seam, at the shoreline, of these vividly portrayed worlds. Through Ferrier's deft hand, we are guided toward and thrillingly entangled with sea monsters, Bad Books, watchful cormorants, and – of course – the captivating residents of the village of Portscatho.
Rooted in the folklore and history of the Cornish coast, we follow (and fall in love with) Kensa as she navigates her life as a wise woman and learns the way of The Pact – a pact between the land and the sea. As readers, we are constantly at the seam, at the shoreline, of these vividly portrayed worlds. Through Ferrier's deft hand, we are guided toward and thrillingly entangled with sea monsters, Bad Books, watchful cormorants, and – of course – the captivating residents of the village of Portscatho.
August 5, 2025
*I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review*
*3.75 Stars*
Summary: A uniquely told dark fairytale-esque story that left me wanting more.
Overall, I thought this was such a well written book, with the subtle writing that doesn’t hit you over the head every second to tell you how the characters feel or what they mean. It’s told in past tense through Kensa’s third-person perspective. It was refreshing to see a main character who didn’t “deserve” her role by some twist of fate or chosen-one arc, who instead stole it for herself. All in all I was satisfied with this read, though there’s quite a bit that felt lacking.
More about what I did and didn’t like below.
Things I Liked:
- MC Backstory/Arc: I thought Kensa was a refreshing MC, dirty and rough and real where an MC like her would normally just be called tough while having nothing to show for it. I also really appreciated her familial backstory and relations, and how they affected how Kensa viewed herself and the actions she chose, especially surrounding her dad and sister. They felt complex and the opposite of cookie cutter.
- Jack: The romance was a very small part of the story, but it (and Jack) made an impact. I definitely wanted more of him, but I’m happy with the role he played, and I really appreciated the slow burn.
Things I Didn’t Like:
- Pacing: I did feel like the ending dragged, and it took way too long to finally wrap everything up. It felt like the climax started way earlier than it actually did. And since the first part of the book is really, really slow (as it focuses on character and world), I think the pace should’ve sped up, not slowed down. We even get introduced to a new character pretty late in the game, who winds up being very important to the finale (weird).
- Epilogue: Not sure if a sequel is planned… because that epilogue just gave me a bunch of new questions.
- Worldbuilding: I went into this expecting a nautical or sea inspired world (especially because of the cover), but there was really very little of that. All the sea creatures come at the end and it’s mostly off page/summarized. Most of the world is what it means to be a coastal town, but the ocean magic side of it seemed to fade into the background :/
That being said, I enjoyed the nuance in this story and felt it was a refreshing take on what could’ve been a run of the mill YA story!
*3.75 Stars*
Summary: A uniquely told dark fairytale-esque story that left me wanting more.
Overall, I thought this was such a well written book, with the subtle writing that doesn’t hit you over the head every second to tell you how the characters feel or what they mean. It’s told in past tense through Kensa’s third-person perspective. It was refreshing to see a main character who didn’t “deserve” her role by some twist of fate or chosen-one arc, who instead stole it for herself. All in all I was satisfied with this read, though there’s quite a bit that felt lacking.
More about what I did and didn’t like below.
Things I Liked:
- MC Backstory/Arc: I thought Kensa was a refreshing MC, dirty and rough and real where an MC like her would normally just be called tough while having nothing to show for it. I also really appreciated her familial backstory and relations, and how they affected how Kensa viewed herself and the actions she chose, especially surrounding her dad and sister. They felt complex and the opposite of cookie cutter.
- Jack: The romance was a very small part of the story, but it (and Jack) made an impact. I definitely wanted more of him, but I’m happy with the role he played, and I really appreciated the slow burn.
Things I Didn’t Like:
- Pacing: I did feel like the ending dragged, and it took way too long to finally wrap everything up. It felt like the climax started way earlier than it actually did. And since the first part of the book is really, really slow (as it focuses on character and world), I think the pace should’ve sped up, not slowed down. We even get introduced to a new character pretty late in the game, who winds up being very important to the finale (weird).
- Epilogue: Not sure if a sequel is planned… because that epilogue just gave me a bunch of new questions.
- Worldbuilding: I went into this expecting a nautical or sea inspired world (especially because of the cover), but there was really very little of that. All the sea creatures come at the end and it’s mostly off page/summarized. Most of the world is what it means to be a coastal town, but the ocean magic side of it seemed to fade into the background :/
That being said, I enjoyed the nuance in this story and felt it was a refreshing take on what could’ve been a run of the mill YA story!
June 18, 2025
A Spell For Drowning
“To be a woman, whether wise or foolish, was to carry what others could not.”
Wow, what a beautifully stunning historical fantasy debut!
From the first page I knew this wasn’t going to be your typical fantasy that is currently saturating the market. This story reads more akin to literary fiction, with gorgeously poetic prose and a character driven narrative.
The first half of the novel is a slow burn inspection of a young girl and the small village she is coming of age in. Eventually our main girl, Kensa, comes to train as an apprentice under the Wise Woman of her village and has to grapple with the effects it has on the relationships with those around her and her village as a whole.
I loved the first half of this story, Kensa was a bit frustrating but I felt that was the point. We are meant to grow up with her and stand by her as she learns important lessons. The writing is so beautiful and I felt myself getting lost in the music of it. The story made me reflect on all the women in my life, myself included, and all the things we carry for others.
The second half of this book does take a turn, however. It becomes very tense and fast paced but in a very drawn out way (if that makes sense?) and I wasn’t expecting it. I think, upon reread, that I will enjoy the back half of this a lot more but during my initial read it was a bit jarring. There are horror elements that I really enjoyed reading but tonally felt out of place.
The romance is this story is very subtle, and if you’re going into this expecting a romance heavy romantasy please dampen those expectations now. This is a story about a girl and everything she feels, the romance is there but it takes a back seat.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author! Stunning!
Thank you to NetGalley and Alcove Press for providing me with this advance digital copy in exchange for my honest feedback!
“To be a woman, whether wise or foolish, was to carry what others could not.”
Wow, what a beautifully stunning historical fantasy debut!
From the first page I knew this wasn’t going to be your typical fantasy that is currently saturating the market. This story reads more akin to literary fiction, with gorgeously poetic prose and a character driven narrative.
The first half of the novel is a slow burn inspection of a young girl and the small village she is coming of age in. Eventually our main girl, Kensa, comes to train as an apprentice under the Wise Woman of her village and has to grapple with the effects it has on the relationships with those around her and her village as a whole.
I loved the first half of this story, Kensa was a bit frustrating but I felt that was the point. We are meant to grow up with her and stand by her as she learns important lessons. The writing is so beautiful and I felt myself getting lost in the music of it. The story made me reflect on all the women in my life, myself included, and all the things we carry for others.
The second half of this book does take a turn, however. It becomes very tense and fast paced but in a very drawn out way (if that makes sense?) and I wasn’t expecting it. I think, upon reread, that I will enjoy the back half of this a lot more but during my initial read it was a bit jarring. There are horror elements that I really enjoyed reading but tonally felt out of place.
The romance is this story is very subtle, and if you’re going into this expecting a romance heavy romantasy please dampen those expectations now. This is a story about a girl and everything she feels, the romance is there but it takes a back seat.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author! Stunning!
Thank you to NetGalley and Alcove Press for providing me with this advance digital copy in exchange for my honest feedback!
November 30, 2025
Torn how to rate this. In the end rounded up to 4 stars for the last half the book.
This started off way to slow for me. It was almost half way through, 200 pages in, before I decided I liked this book enough to actual care what was happening.
The first part of the book, while you got to know the characters could easily have been halved for me. It just dragged and felt pointless. I struggled to connect to Kensa and didnt feel like there was actually anything happening in the story itself. And definitely nothing that actually felt connected to 'the old ways' everyone kept talking about.
The second half in contrast was a vast improvement as we actually started to see some of the old ways and folks. Faster paced, more going on, and some actual action and a real storyline.
Recommendation? Skim read the first half when you loose interested and skip to the middle then you'll be hooked. Without the second half this would have been an easy less than three stars DNF for me.
While I didnt hate the first half, I was just disinterested, I only continued because it was an ARC read from netgalley, and I hoped it would improved.
All thoughts are my own.
This started off way to slow for me. It was almost half way through, 200 pages in, before I decided I liked this book enough to actual care what was happening.
The first part of the book, while you got to know the characters could easily have been halved for me. It just dragged and felt pointless. I struggled to connect to Kensa and didnt feel like there was actually anything happening in the story itself. And definitely nothing that actually felt connected to 'the old ways' everyone kept talking about.
The second half in contrast was a vast improvement as we actually started to see some of the old ways and folks. Faster paced, more going on, and some actual action and a real storyline.
Recommendation? Skim read the first half when you loose interested and skip to the middle then you'll be hooked. Without the second half this would have been an easy less than three stars DNF for me.
While I didnt hate the first half, I was just disinterested, I only continued because it was an ARC read from netgalley, and I hoped it would improved.
All thoughts are my own.
July 15, 2025
*Arc review from NetGalley*
Thanks to the publisher, NetGalley and Rebecca Ferrier for the opportunity to read this story and share my thoughts.
A Spell for Drowning is dark, alluring tale of Cornish folklore set in the 18th century (1779). Ferrier weaves a haunting, witchy, coming-of-age story full of complex characters, sea monsters and superstition. The focus being the young MFC, Kensa, and her struggle to feel acceptance in her community, and the choices she makes that lead her grow, fail, and ultimately believe in herself. The story was of a slower pace at times, but I didn’t feel as though it “dragged on” unnecessarily. Rather, I thought the pacing added to the eerie tension of the story. There is also a slow-burn romance, but it takes a backseat to the plot overall, which I also prefer. In conclusion, I was very impressed by this book and hope to read more from Rebecca Ferrier in the future.
Thanks to the publisher, NetGalley and Rebecca Ferrier for the opportunity to read this story and share my thoughts.
A Spell for Drowning is dark, alluring tale of Cornish folklore set in the 18th century (1779). Ferrier weaves a haunting, witchy, coming-of-age story full of complex characters, sea monsters and superstition. The focus being the young MFC, Kensa, and her struggle to feel acceptance in her community, and the choices she makes that lead her grow, fail, and ultimately believe in herself. The story was of a slower pace at times, but I didn’t feel as though it “dragged on” unnecessarily. Rather, I thought the pacing added to the eerie tension of the story. There is also a slow-burn romance, but it takes a backseat to the plot overall, which I also prefer. In conclusion, I was very impressed by this book and hope to read more from Rebecca Ferrier in the future.
November 8, 2025
3.5 rounded up
I was really sucked in early on with the mythology that’s set up right off the bat. But like the next 30 ish percent is very character driven and all about Kensa becoming the town’s wise woman. It did make the pacing feel a little off since I felt like I was waiting to get back to the “action”.
This had a lot of great positives though despite a bit in the beginning dragging a little. The atmosphere and mythology go perfectly. I think the prose is really strong for a debut author and is certainly full of emotion. The romance, while understated, was a nice surprise I wasn’t expecting. I think keeping the focus on Kensa served the story well, and really made it about her growth and redemption.
The (few) side characters aren’t as well developed as the FMC. Would’ve like to see just a wee more about them to make the story a little richer.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author/publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I was really sucked in early on with the mythology that’s set up right off the bat. But like the next 30 ish percent is very character driven and all about Kensa becoming the town’s wise woman. It did make the pacing feel a little off since I felt like I was waiting to get back to the “action”.
This had a lot of great positives though despite a bit in the beginning dragging a little. The atmosphere and mythology go perfectly. I think the prose is really strong for a debut author and is certainly full of emotion. The romance, while understated, was a nice surprise I wasn’t expecting. I think keeping the focus on Kensa served the story well, and really made it about her growth and redemption.
The (few) side characters aren’t as well developed as the FMC. Would’ve like to see just a wee more about them to make the story a little richer.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author/publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
June 18, 2025
Wow, let me first off say I haven’t read a book like this before.. not saying there isn’t any but I truly enjoyed it. Mythological sirens and sea creatures and hidden truths. I will say the main character gets you in your feelings of irritation from time to time. She comes off almost entitled and selfish but grows with the book. The world building was great as well as the plot. You got a bunch of information but you didn’t feel like it was shoved into your face at an overwhelming rate. The FMC takes the place of her sister and lies to get there. Then she is doing everything to save her sister so it’s like a spin around from what you expect to happen. It’s overall an amazing read and the author did a fantastic job. I would definitely recommend you pick this up! Also, let’s just talk about that cover!!! Absolutely beautiful. Can’t wait to order it and add it to my bookshelf! -Kerin
November 4, 2025
This one was beautifully eerie and full of salt soaked folklore.
It’s an atmospheric wander through Cornish myth, and the story of a lonely girl trying to carve out her place in a world that keeps shutting her out. The atmosphere is gorgeous - misty cliffs, grey skies and pounding waves. The descriptions give the book this windswept, poetic feel that makes you want to stare moodily at the sea and question your life choices.
But, my biggest gripe was the pace. For a book under 300 pages, it felt far longer. The first two thirds move slooowly. By the time the real fantasy elements finally appeared it was nearly over. Up until then it read more like historical fiction, which isn’t really what I expected.
Kensa’s an interesting lead. She’s prickly and complicated, and she tested my patience more than once. If I’m honest, I didn’t really like any of the characters. They were all a bit too 1 dimensional for me and I just struggled to really feel invested.
The atmosphere was everything in this book though. It was dripping with moody coastal magic and a heavy sense of history. If you’re looking for some vibey, poetic storytelling that feels more like a foggy daydream than a page turner, this might be your thing.
Thanks to NetGalley & Rebecca Ferrier for the free advance copy of this book. All thoughts are my own & review is fully voluntary.
It’s an atmospheric wander through Cornish myth, and the story of a lonely girl trying to carve out her place in a world that keeps shutting her out. The atmosphere is gorgeous - misty cliffs, grey skies and pounding waves. The descriptions give the book this windswept, poetic feel that makes you want to stare moodily at the sea and question your life choices.
But, my biggest gripe was the pace. For a book under 300 pages, it felt far longer. The first two thirds move slooowly. By the time the real fantasy elements finally appeared it was nearly over. Up until then it read more like historical fiction, which isn’t really what I expected.
Kensa’s an interesting lead. She’s prickly and complicated, and she tested my patience more than once. If I’m honest, I didn’t really like any of the characters. They were all a bit too 1 dimensional for me and I just struggled to really feel invested.
The atmosphere was everything in this book though. It was dripping with moody coastal magic and a heavy sense of history. If you’re looking for some vibey, poetic storytelling that feels more like a foggy daydream than a page turner, this might be your thing.
Thanks to NetGalley & Rebecca Ferrier for the free advance copy of this book. All thoughts are my own & review is fully voluntary.
July 11, 2025
While there are fantasy elements, it is much more historical fiction than I expected, especially up until the last 20%.
I always enjoy the idea of healers being witches because of their knowledge of medicinal properties of plants, which this was, but I feel like this was too light on both it being healer abilities and being witches. The truly heavy fantasy elements didn’t make their appearance until the end which I think was my biggest disappointment.
I always enjoy the idea of healers being witches because of their knowledge of medicinal properties of plants, which this was, but I feel like this was too light on both it being healer abilities and being witches. The truly heavy fantasy elements didn’t make their appearance until the end which I think was my biggest disappointment.
July 14, 2025
I found this book a little hard to get into, but then I couldn't put it down! A look into Cornish folklore and interesting takes into the differences between land and sea. I wish we got to explore some of the characters a few more like the wise woman Isolde, or got to explore some of the other! Thank you to netgalley for the arc!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews