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Something in the Water
Homeless thief Jenna Whitney is determined to uncover her mother's murderer, but in the corrupt, overcrowded Fountain City, answers are hard to find. When a mysterious illness starts claiming lives, she seizes an unexpected opportunity.
With only her wits, a few allies, and a knack for mechanics, she navigates political intrigue and betrayal. As she unravels a web of secrets, Jenna learns her mother had hidden truths of her own—and the real killer is closer than she ever imagined.
This gritty urban fantasy is perfect for fans of Six of Crows and Nevernight.
One Click today to join Jenna's quest for the truth in corruption riddled Fountain City.
With only her wits, a few allies, and a knack for mechanics, she navigates political intrigue and betrayal. As she unravels a web of secrets, Jenna learns her mother had hidden truths of her own—and the real killer is closer than she ever imagined.
This gritty urban fantasy is perfect for fans of Six of Crows and Nevernight.
One Click today to join Jenna's quest for the truth in corruption riddled Fountain City.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 14, 2025
1 person is currently reading
8 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
July 11, 2025
Thank you Cloaked Press and Sandy Stuckless for offering me an eARC, I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Something in the Water was a wonderfully interesting book.
Full of intrigue, mystery and unexpected twists.
The characters and their intertwining stories were entertaining. I quite enjoyed Emory’s character.
A murder mystery surrounded by a fantasy world involving the Fountain of Youth.
Something in the Water was a wonderfully interesting book.
Full of intrigue, mystery and unexpected twists.
The characters and their intertwining stories were entertaining. I quite enjoyed Emory’s character.
A murder mystery surrounded by a fantasy world involving the Fountain of Youth.
May 29, 2025
I was provided an ARC by Cloaked Press in exchange for an honest review.
To start, some pros. Something in the Water is an urban fantasy with a strong mystery/conspiracy centralized story that had me really pushing to get to the end. Jenna’s story and journey throughout this book is a strong vehicle for conveying the grief to acceptance process and I thought that was fleshed out well.
The cast of characters are also an absolute joy to spend time with. They all bring different worldviews and motivations that make you question where you would fit in with where group. There are also some strong elements of a found family in here that are pretty heartwarming. I also really appreciated the author’s willingness to challenge and stretch the beliefs of the characters throughout, it made things feel more believable. The payoff for the story was handled well. I didn’t feel like it left me hanging and I was ultimately satisfied.
Now for a few cons, as this is an ARC there were plenty of errors in the book. Some that I think will be cleaned up by release but they were there and somewhat distracting.
I did also feel sometimes the writing style was a bit inconsistent. It took me a second to catch onto the overlapping timelines. Not a huge deal but definitely something to note. Lastly, the second act of the story can get a little bogged down. It feels like we spend more time on a treadmill discussing the same plot points for multiple chapters at a time but it gets back on track toward the end of act 2.
Overall, Something in the Water is certainly a book I’d recommend. It’s message of grief and acceptance, cast of characters, and strongly built web of conspiracy are very well done.
3 stars for me! I’d consider this one a good read!
To start, some pros. Something in the Water is an urban fantasy with a strong mystery/conspiracy centralized story that had me really pushing to get to the end. Jenna’s story and journey throughout this book is a strong vehicle for conveying the grief to acceptance process and I thought that was fleshed out well.
The cast of characters are also an absolute joy to spend time with. They all bring different worldviews and motivations that make you question where you would fit in with where group. There are also some strong elements of a found family in here that are pretty heartwarming. I also really appreciated the author’s willingness to challenge and stretch the beliefs of the characters throughout, it made things feel more believable. The payoff for the story was handled well. I didn’t feel like it left me hanging and I was ultimately satisfied.
Now for a few cons, as this is an ARC there were plenty of errors in the book. Some that I think will be cleaned up by release but they were there and somewhat distracting.
I did also feel sometimes the writing style was a bit inconsistent. It took me a second to catch onto the overlapping timelines. Not a huge deal but definitely something to note. Lastly, the second act of the story can get a little bogged down. It feels like we spend more time on a treadmill discussing the same plot points for multiple chapters at a time but it gets back on track toward the end of act 2.
Overall, Something in the Water is certainly a book I’d recommend. It’s message of grief and acceptance, cast of characters, and strongly built web of conspiracy are very well done.
3 stars for me! I’d consider this one a good read!
May 8, 2025
3.5 rounded 4
First of all, if you are not familiar with Ponce de Leon and the Fountain of Youth story before you start this book, maybe do a quick search so you know what's what and you are not taken by surprised when reading the book. Or just leave it to mystery and start reading.
I enjoyed reading this book. The plot was great, the characters were well-written. My only negative point could be the back and forth with some places in the city, at some point (70% in the book) it just was too much. Yes it did serve the plot, but it felt like there was too much running around for nothing or for little things.
I honestly liked the fights; that was "fun" and well-written. My fav character is Emory, but I always love a good underdog with a pinch of borderline morals.
Please be mindful about this book, it does contain a lot of death and mention of grief.
Pick it up if you like:
- Urban Fantasy - there is some subplot romance in there, but it's like sub-sub-plot
- Ponce de Leon/Fountain of Youth retelling sort of vibe
- Quest for truth
- Mysteries and suspense
I received an e-ARC from Cloaked Press. This review is my own, and I'm leaving it voluntarily.
First of all, if you are not familiar with Ponce de Leon and the Fountain of Youth story before you start this book, maybe do a quick search so you know what's what and you are not taken by surprised when reading the book. Or just leave it to mystery and start reading.
I enjoyed reading this book. The plot was great, the characters were well-written. My only negative point could be the back and forth with some places in the city, at some point (70% in the book) it just was too much. Yes it did serve the plot, but it felt like there was too much running around for nothing or for little things.
I honestly liked the fights; that was "fun" and well-written. My fav character is Emory, but I always love a good underdog with a pinch of borderline morals.
Please be mindful about this book, it does contain a lot of death and mention of grief.
Pick it up if you like:
- Urban Fantasy - there is some subplot romance in there, but it's like sub-sub-plot
- Ponce de Leon/Fountain of Youth retelling sort of vibe
- Quest for truth
- Mysteries and suspense
I received an e-ARC from Cloaked Press. This review is my own, and I'm leaving it voluntarily.
May 17, 2025
Rating: 4/5
Feedback and Review:
This story presents a rich, atmospheric urban fantasy world, blending intrigue, mystery, and socio-political tension with a compelling protagonist in Jenna Whitley. The pacing across chapters is strong, with Jenna’s personal quest to uncover her mother’s murder seamlessly intertwined with the broader city’s conspiracies and unrest. The layered cast—from guildmasters and crime bosses to shadowy investigators—adds depth and complexity, making the stakes feel real and dangerous. Jenna’s struggle for autonomy against powerful forces, her internal conflict between survival and morality, and the looming threat of the mysterious deaths create strong emotional engagement. The narrative skillfully balances action, character development, and worldbuilding, though a few moments could benefit from slightly tighter exposition to maintain momentum. Overall, it’s a gripping story and start to what promises to be an engrossing series, with well-crafted characters and a vividly realized setting.
Feedback and Review:
This story presents a rich, atmospheric urban fantasy world, blending intrigue, mystery, and socio-political tension with a compelling protagonist in Jenna Whitley. The pacing across chapters is strong, with Jenna’s personal quest to uncover her mother’s murder seamlessly intertwined with the broader city’s conspiracies and unrest. The layered cast—from guildmasters and crime bosses to shadowy investigators—adds depth and complexity, making the stakes feel real and dangerous. Jenna’s struggle for autonomy against powerful forces, her internal conflict between survival and morality, and the looming threat of the mysterious deaths create strong emotional engagement. The narrative skillfully balances action, character development, and worldbuilding, though a few moments could benefit from slightly tighter exposition to maintain momentum. Overall, it’s a gripping story and start to what promises to be an engrossing series, with well-crafted characters and a vividly realized setting.
July 17, 2025
Left an orphan and desolate, Jenna will stop at nothing to find out why her mother was murdered. Taking shelter with a group of thieves, she must use all talents and courage to stay alive in a city that is being torn apart by a monstrous conspiracy that is killing hundreds. One of fellow thieves, Shadow, can either help her in her quest or betray what little trust she has in him. But who is he working for?
In a city that surrounds the Fountain of Youth, this is an exciting tale of danger, betrayal, murder, and loss. With well-rounded characters that have you cheering for their wins and cursing for their enemies, this fantasy adventure is reminiscent of Raymond E. Feist.
Highly recommended for those who love fast-paced, desperate tales of bravery and sacrifice.
For transparency, I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
In a city that surrounds the Fountain of Youth, this is an exciting tale of danger, betrayal, murder, and loss. With well-rounded characters that have you cheering for their wins and cursing for their enemies, this fantasy adventure is reminiscent of Raymond E. Feist.
Highly recommended for those who love fast-paced, desperate tales of bravery and sacrifice.
For transparency, I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2025
First off, thank you Sandy Stuckless for the ARC of this book. When I first started reading the book, it seemed slow paced and I wasn't sure if I would like it. However, the pacing picked up and my mind was blown.
One girl, seeking the truth to what happened to her mother, has to wade through all the mistrust, lies, and deception to try to figure out what is true and what is just manipulation. Some of the minor characters ended up stealing my heart bc on the end they all wanted the truth while also dealing with their own demons. In the end, deception is rampant but the fight for the truth will always win out in the end.
One girl, seeking the truth to what happened to her mother, has to wade through all the mistrust, lies, and deception to try to figure out what is true and what is just manipulation. Some of the minor characters ended up stealing my heart bc on the end they all wanted the truth while also dealing with their own demons. In the end, deception is rampant but the fight for the truth will always win out in the end.
August 7, 2025
This review is after being provided a copy by Cloaked Press for ARC. I am freely leaving this.
This book will appeal to those that like political intrigue with a twist of steampunk vibes running through it. The main character is determined to solve the circumstances of her Mother's death. I did find her a little annoying myself! But there are a lot of fun supporting characters, don't get too attached, this author is not afraid of death scenes.
The book was well structured with lots of fun fight scenes.
Personally this was not my cup of tea, but don't let that put you off if this is the kind of thing you like. I have rated it on its own merit.
This book will appeal to those that like political intrigue with a twist of steampunk vibes running through it. The main character is determined to solve the circumstances of her Mother's death. I did find her a little annoying myself! But there are a lot of fun supporting characters, don't get too attached, this author is not afraid of death scenes.
The book was well structured with lots of fun fight scenes.
Personally this was not my cup of tea, but don't let that put you off if this is the kind of thing you like. I have rated it on its own merit.
July 6, 2025
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars!
I received a copy from Cloaked Press in exchange for this review.
This book is definitely for anyone who is into intrigue and conspiracies. The secrets are interesting and very twisty.
I found it a little too light in the fantasy aspect for my tastes, but that is a personal taste and I won't hold it against the book.
I received a copy from Cloaked Press in exchange for this review.
This book is definitely for anyone who is into intrigue and conspiracies. The secrets are interesting and very twisty.
I found it a little too light in the fantasy aspect for my tastes, but that is a personal taste and I won't hold it against the book.
August 12, 2025
This twisty mystery through the thieving underbelly of The Fountain city kept me on the edge of my seat! Continual surprises, fun tension, and a cool look at the maybe more realistic way the Fountain of Youth would affect the world if it truly existed. I enjoyed the bonds between the characters, and loved the dark atmosphere. Would recommend!
June 3, 2025
Jenna might be a thief and homeless, but she’s definitely clever. Will she solve her Mother’s murder before anything else happens. Can’t wait for more by this talented author Don’t miss out once it’s released.
July 13, 2025
Something in the Water is an urban fantasy set in a town built around the fountain of youth. What a cool concept - the fountain of youth is discovered and of course a town pops up around it, utilising the water for longevity in the population. The world building here is great with how the town is run by the guild masters and the regents.
This book is all about politics and the alliances between the key people. About the conspiracies and shadowy players in the background. The over arching mystery was interesting and compelling to read.
There were a few moments that felt a bit repetitive for me. There was a lot of running to and from the same places. Don’t get me wrong it made sense why they were going everywhere they went, but for me it slowed the pace.
I enjoyed most of the characters in this one. Shadow in particular and I’d love to see more of Nina. For me I didn’t like Jenna. She just bothered me for some reason. Very much a personal thing since I can’t put my finger on it at this moment. Also I wish Jenna’s knack for mechanics had been shown a little more. I thought it would have more to do with the story being her dream to join the artificers guild but it really wasn’t utilised.
Overall a solid read. I’m grateful for the opportunity to read and review. If you like twisty politics in your fantasy this is the book for you.
This book is all about politics and the alliances between the key people. About the conspiracies and shadowy players in the background. The over arching mystery was interesting and compelling to read.
There were a few moments that felt a bit repetitive for me. There was a lot of running to and from the same places. Don’t get me wrong it made sense why they were going everywhere they went, but for me it slowed the pace.
I enjoyed most of the characters in this one. Shadow in particular and I’d love to see more of Nina. For me I didn’t like Jenna. She just bothered me for some reason. Very much a personal thing since I can’t put my finger on it at this moment. Also I wish Jenna’s knack for mechanics had been shown a little more. I thought it would have more to do with the story being her dream to join the artificers guild but it really wasn’t utilised.
Overall a solid read. I’m grateful for the opportunity to read and review. If you like twisty politics in your fantasy this is the book for you.
January 21, 2026
This story takes you on a journey of a grieving daughter, determined to find the person responsible for murdering her mother. The fountain of youth being a central theme, with a brilliantly written anti hero, and a woman who is fierce and at times vulnerable. The steam punk vibes, and noir'esque undertones, enhanced the intriguing plot. The action elements were very well executed, and the emotive scenes were well placed.
What a great read.
What a great read.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews