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Water Wishes: Bound by Tides
Water Bound by Tides
A YA Fantasy Novel by Freya Aguiar
Book One of the Water Wishes Trilogy
Bay has always been told to stay far from the ocean.
She never knew why. It was simply a rule her father wouldn't bend. It had always been just the two of them, drifting through life with more questions than answers. But when the sea begins to call her name, Bay can't ignore it. And once she answers, nothing will ever be the same.
Drawn into a world of tide-bound magic and unexpected friendships, Bay finds herself unraveling secrets she never meant to discover. Her hair begins to darken. Her powers awaken. And her wishes, whispered from the heart, begin to come true.
But the more Bay uncovers about her past, the more she fears what it might cost her. Her mind feels like it's slipping. Her Light-voice is panicking. And every answer brings her closer to a truth she may not be ready to face.
Water Bound by Tides is a whimsical and emotionally rich YA fantasy about magic, memory, and the journey to uncover who you truly are. For readers who believe the ocean holds secrets, and sometimes, those secrets hold you back.
Perfect for fans
Slow-burn fantasy with powerful inner voicesMagical identity reveals and haunting mysteriesMermaid mythology and matriarchal loreFound family, fate, and the cost of wishesThe ocean is calling.
And this time, Bay is ready to listen.
A YA Fantasy Novel by Freya Aguiar
Book One of the Water Wishes Trilogy
Bay has always been told to stay far from the ocean.
She never knew why. It was simply a rule her father wouldn't bend. It had always been just the two of them, drifting through life with more questions than answers. But when the sea begins to call her name, Bay can't ignore it. And once she answers, nothing will ever be the same.
Drawn into a world of tide-bound magic and unexpected friendships, Bay finds herself unraveling secrets she never meant to discover. Her hair begins to darken. Her powers awaken. And her wishes, whispered from the heart, begin to come true.
But the more Bay uncovers about her past, the more she fears what it might cost her. Her mind feels like it's slipping. Her Light-voice is panicking. And every answer brings her closer to a truth she may not be ready to face.
Water Bound by Tides is a whimsical and emotionally rich YA fantasy about magic, memory, and the journey to uncover who you truly are. For readers who believe the ocean holds secrets, and sometimes, those secrets hold you back.
Perfect for fans
Slow-burn fantasy with powerful inner voicesMagical identity reveals and haunting mysteriesMermaid mythology and matriarchal loreFound family, fate, and the cost of wishesThe ocean is calling.
And this time, Bay is ready to listen.
332 pages, Hardcover
Published June 27, 2025
3 people are currently reading
14749 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
December 17, 2025
Water Wishes: Bound by Tides by Freya Aguiar is a haunting and emotionally rich young adult fantasy about sixteen‑year‑old Bay, a girl raised by her father in a quiet coastal town who has always been forbidden from the ocean, only to find that the sea’s call is too strong to ignore and that her own mysterious powers may tie her to ancient tides, underwater worlds, and truths she never imagined.
As Bay’s magic awakens and her hair darkens with the pull of the sea, she meets a mysterious boy washed ashore whose story is tangled with her own, and together they unravel secrets about ancient queens, dangerous wishes, and her role in a fate that could change everything she holds dear. The narrative blends mermaid‑inspired lore, identity discovery, and found family into the start of a promised trilogy.
When I imagine stepping into Bay’s world, I feel the ocean’s pull in every description: the salt in the air, the hush of waves against hidden shores, and the way magic seems to ebb and flow like the tide itself. I liked about this story is how deeply Bay’s search for self resonates, especially as she confronts the reason her father kept her from the water and what it means to face powers she never asked for. Her journey becomes not just about uncovering her past but about choosing who she wants to be, even when the answers frighten her, and I found those emotional threads as gripping as the fantastical elements.
The friendships she forms with others who understand the sea’s enchantments brought warmth and heart to what could otherwise be a solitary tale, and I loved how the worldbuilding felt vivid without overwhelming the characters’ emotional arcs. I liked the magic, found family, and pacing. I finished it eager for the next book in the series.
My rating: 4 out of 5 stars. I’m giving Water Wishes: Bound by Tides four stars because its imagery, heartfelt coming‑of‑age themes, and immersive ocean lore made me feel like I was tumbling into an undersea mystery alongside Bay, yet at times I wished for even deeper exploration of some mythic threads. Still, this enchanting beginning to a trilogy left me craving what lies beyond the horizons of its tides.
As Bay’s magic awakens and her hair darkens with the pull of the sea, she meets a mysterious boy washed ashore whose story is tangled with her own, and together they unravel secrets about ancient queens, dangerous wishes, and her role in a fate that could change everything she holds dear. The narrative blends mermaid‑inspired lore, identity discovery, and found family into the start of a promised trilogy.
When I imagine stepping into Bay’s world, I feel the ocean’s pull in every description: the salt in the air, the hush of waves against hidden shores, and the way magic seems to ebb and flow like the tide itself. I liked about this story is how deeply Bay’s search for self resonates, especially as she confronts the reason her father kept her from the water and what it means to face powers she never asked for. Her journey becomes not just about uncovering her past but about choosing who she wants to be, even when the answers frighten her, and I found those emotional threads as gripping as the fantastical elements.
The friendships she forms with others who understand the sea’s enchantments brought warmth and heart to what could otherwise be a solitary tale, and I loved how the worldbuilding felt vivid without overwhelming the characters’ emotional arcs. I liked the magic, found family, and pacing. I finished it eager for the next book in the series.
My rating: 4 out of 5 stars. I’m giving Water Wishes: Bound by Tides four stars because its imagery, heartfelt coming‑of‑age themes, and immersive ocean lore made me feel like I was tumbling into an undersea mystery alongside Bay, yet at times I wished for even deeper exploration of some mythic threads. Still, this enchanting beginning to a trilogy left me craving what lies beyond the horizons of its tides.
June 24, 2025
I LOVED this book! It was such a fun and easy read. I flew through the story and fell in love with all of the characters, especially Bay!! If you enjoy fantasy and mermaids, you will love this book!
June 17, 2025
I had the pleasure of receiving this e-ARC and being on the ARC Team. This book drew me in and wanting more!! I need the second book now!! “Bay grew up forbidden from the sea. Now, hunted for powers she never asked for, she must choose: bind herself to the ocean’s ancient magic—or be torn apart by it.” Chefs kiss!! This is a must read, Releasing on June 27, 2025.
June 26, 2025
This is an enchanting tale about a teenage girl named Bay, who has been forbidden from going near the ocean her entire life, until one unexpected road trip unravels everything she thought she knew. As she uncovers secrets about her past, she sets off on a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and magical danger beneath the sea.
I went into this book a little skeptical as I’m usually more into thrillers and mysteries, but I’ve always had a soft spot for mermaids, so I gave it a shot - and I’m so glad I did. What I found was a fast-paced and emotional adventure about growth, friendship, and inner strength, sprinkled with a bit of magic and mystery.
The story follows a teenage girl named Bay, who’s been forbidden from going near water her entire life. While on a road trip with her best friend, she almost breaks that rule, leading to a moment that forces her father to suddenly reveal a long-held secret: Bay is not who she thinks she is. That twist sets her on a journey to uncover the truth about her past, her family, and ultimately, herself.
Even though her father shared his version of the truth, Bay can feel there’s more he’s hiding. Determined to uncover it all, she defies him and dives headfirst into a world of deep sea mysteries. Along the way, she meets new friends who help her find not just her origins, but also her purpose. It’s a true “found family” arc, which I loved.
The plot really kept me on my toes. I was constantly guessing what Bay would do next. She’s a strong and layered female protagonist, facing both external enemies and internal conflict on a literal basis - there is a constant tug-of-war between light and darkness inside her, and by the end, you’re holding your breath wondering which side will win.
One of my favorite things about the book was the artwork at the beginning of each chapter. The illustrations added so much depth and helped bring the underwater world to life. It made the reading experience feel that much more magical, and you can really understand what the author was trying to convey.
I’m definitely excited to see where Bay’s story goes in Book 2! If you enjoy stories about self-discovery, mermaids, magic, found family, and inner strength, this one is absolutely worth the dive!
I went into this book a little skeptical as I’m usually more into thrillers and mysteries, but I’ve always had a soft spot for mermaids, so I gave it a shot - and I’m so glad I did. What I found was a fast-paced and emotional adventure about growth, friendship, and inner strength, sprinkled with a bit of magic and mystery.
The story follows a teenage girl named Bay, who’s been forbidden from going near water her entire life. While on a road trip with her best friend, she almost breaks that rule, leading to a moment that forces her father to suddenly reveal a long-held secret: Bay is not who she thinks she is. That twist sets her on a journey to uncover the truth about her past, her family, and ultimately, herself.
Even though her father shared his version of the truth, Bay can feel there’s more he’s hiding. Determined to uncover it all, she defies him and dives headfirst into a world of deep sea mysteries. Along the way, she meets new friends who help her find not just her origins, but also her purpose. It’s a true “found family” arc, which I loved.
The plot really kept me on my toes. I was constantly guessing what Bay would do next. She’s a strong and layered female protagonist, facing both external enemies and internal conflict on a literal basis - there is a constant tug-of-war between light and darkness inside her, and by the end, you’re holding your breath wondering which side will win.
One of my favorite things about the book was the artwork at the beginning of each chapter. The illustrations added so much depth and helped bring the underwater world to life. It made the reading experience feel that much more magical, and you can really understand what the author was trying to convey.
I’m definitely excited to see where Bay’s story goes in Book 2! If you enjoy stories about self-discovery, mermaids, magic, found family, and inner strength, this one is absolutely worth the dive!
July 15, 2025
Water Wishes Bound By Tides by Freya Aguiar delivers a unique take on mermaid mythology, diving into a mysterious and treacherous underwater adventure that will leave you enchanted!
The story follows Bay, a young girl who has been landlocked her whole life but yearns to answer the call of the ocean!
Raised by her single dad, Bay has been content sailing through life with just the two of them, even though she never fully understood his non-negotiable rule to stay away from the water. But when she gets a glimpse of the ocean for the first time, the rise and fall of the tide calls to her heart like a beacon. She has questions, she wants answers, and she needs them now!
This leads her to disobey her dad on a quest that she hopes will unravel the hidden histories and mysteries behind his desperate need to keep her safe from the water. However, the deeper Bay dives, the more she wonders if the truth is worth the risk and all that it will cost her to uncover who she really is and where she truly belongs.
This is a fun young adult fantasy that I would recommend for ages 13-19, especially for readers who might enjoy the journey of self-discovery—though readers of all ages can relate to Bay’s story one way or another!
The story follows Bay, a young girl who has been landlocked her whole life but yearns to answer the call of the ocean!
Raised by her single dad, Bay has been content sailing through life with just the two of them, even though she never fully understood his non-negotiable rule to stay away from the water. But when she gets a glimpse of the ocean for the first time, the rise and fall of the tide calls to her heart like a beacon. She has questions, she wants answers, and she needs them now!
This leads her to disobey her dad on a quest that she hopes will unravel the hidden histories and mysteries behind his desperate need to keep her safe from the water. However, the deeper Bay dives, the more she wonders if the truth is worth the risk and all that it will cost her to uncover who she really is and where she truly belongs.
This is a fun young adult fantasy that I would recommend for ages 13-19, especially for readers who might enjoy the journey of self-discovery—though readers of all ages can relate to Bay’s story one way or another!
June 24, 2025
“The sea called to her, sang to her, as if whispering her name. Her whole body headed to run straight to its edge.”
I was instantly drawn into the world and the mystery of Bay’s existence. I was intrigued by the magic and loved all the twists and turns. I thought I had Bay and her Light-Voice figured out but I was wrong.
This is a whimsical tale of found family, self-discovery and sacrifice. This is definitely a YA novel but I felt Bay showed maturity and depth. She never gave up on pursuing the answers she’d always wanted and always tried to protect her friends along the way. A fun and captivating summer read.
I was instantly drawn into the world and the mystery of Bay’s existence. I was intrigued by the magic and loved all the twists and turns. I thought I had Bay and her Light-Voice figured out but I was wrong.
This is a whimsical tale of found family, self-discovery and sacrifice. This is definitely a YA novel but I felt Bay showed maturity and depth. She never gave up on pursuing the answers she’d always wanted and always tried to protect her friends along the way. A fun and captivating summer read.
June 19, 2025
4.50 ⭐️’s
Wow what a journey. Thank you @thewestwitchllc for allowing me to read this book. I absolutely loved it and cannot wait to see what comes next from you!
Atlantis Bay is a teenager who always has longed for the sea but her dad had kept her far from there for a reason he would never disclose. Until one day he tells her why. She learns her mother who she once thought was dead is alive and even more surprising, is a mermaid. Bay is determined to find her mother no matter the consequences. Her father warns her she has been told to stay away from the waters because what lurks there for her is dangerous beyond what she can imagine.
With the help of some friends and a voice inside her she goes out on this grand adventure to learn who she is and why she’s in danger. What’s she learns is so far from what she would have ever expected.
This book is filled with adventure and action. You are constantly trying to figure out why Bay is in danger and how to help this sweet girl find the answers. The friends she makes along the way are heartwarming to watch grow with her as the story progresses. I wasn’t able to put this book down until I knew what happened. I could not recommend this book enough. It was such a great read.
#arc #arcreview #waterwishesboundbytides #fantasy #mermaid #mustread #junebookrelease #june
July 9, 2025
This title was selected for IngramSpark's Indie Title Discovery Spotlight 2025!
A spellbinding YA fantasy debut perfect for fans of mermaid mythology, emotional coming-of-age stories, and magical adventures. Can't wait for the next book in the trilogy!
A spellbinding YA fantasy debut perfect for fans of mermaid mythology, emotional coming-of-age stories, and magical adventures. Can't wait for the next book in the trilogy!
June 23, 2025
Water Wishes Bound by Tide (by Freya Aguilar)
DROPS: June 27th!
What a cute, wholesome story. Freya’s style reminded me of Alex Aster’s writing. Mermaids, magic & witches, oh my! There are many secrets Bay must uncover while being drawn to the ocean by an unown tether. Will she be able to answer the call? I’ll never tell! I love a happy ending story - and there is a book 2 coming!
Thank you so much for letting me read an early copy! I love being able to read ARC for Indie Authors.
DROPS: June 27th!
What a cute, wholesome story. Freya’s style reminded me of Alex Aster’s writing. Mermaids, magic & witches, oh my! There are many secrets Bay must uncover while being drawn to the ocean by an unown tether. Will she be able to answer the call? I’ll never tell! I love a happy ending story - and there is a book 2 coming!
Thank you so much for letting me read an early copy! I love being able to read ARC for Indie Authors.
June 24, 2025
I was generously given an ARC of this book and so happy I was! I had never read any mermaid or under the sea type books before so I wasn’t sure what to expect but I loved it! The pacing of the book was perfect, the characters were so likable, and the storyline was great! I can’t wait to read the next one!
June 23, 2025
omg I loved it
the story kept on getting interesting and never lost my interest and I didnt want to put the book down
the story kept on getting interesting and never lost my interest and I didnt want to put the book down
June 19, 2025
Water Wishes: Bound by Tides swept me away from the very first page. Centered around Bay, a girl with a deep, mysterious connection to the ocean, this YA fantasy explores identity, magic, and the pull of something greater than yourself. With a voice in her head she’s always trusted and secrets buried beneath the surface of her life, Bay’s journey leads her into a stunning world of mermaids, magic, and self-discovery.
What I especially loved were the gorgeous chapter illustrations. Each one added to the atmosphere and helped immerse me deeper into the world Freya Aguiar created. The story moves at a fast pace but never feels rushed, and the twists kept me turning pages late into the night.
This book offers so much; found family, mysterious powers, emotional depth, and a richly imagined world. It’s a fantastic choice for fans of ocean mythology and character-driven fantasy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A strong 4-star read!
This is something that if I had kids, I would love to read it to them at night! Such a magical read!
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
What I especially loved were the gorgeous chapter illustrations. Each one added to the atmosphere and helped immerse me deeper into the world Freya Aguiar created. The story moves at a fast pace but never feels rushed, and the twists kept me turning pages late into the night.
This book offers so much; found family, mysterious powers, emotional depth, and a richly imagined world. It’s a fantastic choice for fans of ocean mythology and character-driven fantasy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A strong 4-star read!
This is something that if I had kids, I would love to read it to them at night! Such a magical read!
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
July 3, 2025
I didn’t expect this book to make me cry but it really got me. I usually hate when there’s a second voice in the characters head but I didn’t mind it here. I hated the newb comments though. I’m nervous for the next book now. I’m worried there’s gonna be girl hate over a man. Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book.
June 18, 2025
A delightful YA read to launch what I am calling mermaid summer 💕 This is the perfect lake or ocean side read! Simple but with the potential for some incredible depth. There were moments where I wanted more and/or didn't feel like enough time was spent in a moment, but honestly I was pleasently surprised by this story. I did not expect the twist at the end and truly felt the author's passion for her craft throughout, which, to me, is priceless.
Thank you Freya, for gifting this Advanced Reader's Copy in exchange for an honest review! I wish nothing but troves of positivity for Water Wishes' journey, and will look forward to following yours!
Thank you Freya, for gifting this Advanced Reader's Copy in exchange for an honest review! I wish nothing but troves of positivity for Water Wishes' journey, and will look forward to following yours!
July 21, 2025
The cover sold me on this book. I’m willing to try anything with mermaids in it, and this book didn’t disappoint! I read the entire book in one sitting and I was really impressed by the storytelling. The world is well developed and the characters felt so real!
4 1/4 💜’s.
4 1/4 💜’s.
July 15, 2025
Water Wishes: Bound by Tides is a magical, emotional read about Bay—a girl who's been kept from the ocean her whole life until one trip flips everything. Secrets, powers, found family, and inner struggles all hit hard. The plot kept me hooked, and the artwork made it feel even more alive. If you’re into mermaids, magic, and self-discovery, this one's definitely worth diving into. I can’t wait for Book 2!
July 8, 2025
A darkly enchanting dive into the depths of identity and mermaid lore.
Bay has always felt the ocean’s call—but when it finally answers, it comes with secrets as deep and dark as the waves. When a mysterious boy with ocean-born magic washes ashore, Bay is drawn into a hidden world of ancient power, cursed queens, and a war brewing beneath the tides. As her own magic awakens, Bay must choose between the light and dark within her… before everything she loves is swept away.
Water Wishes offers a refreshingly haunting twist on traditional mermaid tales, trading glittering scales and seafoam romance for a murkier, more treacherous underwater world. Told through the eyes of Bay, a 15-year-old girl on the run, the novel grips you from page one with its blend of mystery, magic, and the aching questions of identity. Bay’s perspective is laced with uncertainty—an unreliable narrator whose confusion and desperation are palpable, making each revelation as shocking to the reader as it is to her.
The narrative thrives on its eerie ocean atmosphere and emotionally layered storytelling. Bay’s life has been shaped by secrets and lies, and as those layers are peeled back, what emerges is a powerful coming-of-age journey underscored by the pain of not knowing where—or who—you truly belong. Despite the odds, Bay remains a fierce and self-reliant protagonist, facing betrayal, danger, and heartbreak with a quiet bravery that’s both realistic and inspiring.
The worldbuilding is a standout feature. The lore surrounding mermaid cities, soul bonds, curses, and mer-magic feels fresh and vividly imagined, offering a unique mythology that’s far darker and more whimsical than the genre typically allows. Side characters Cyrus and Catalina provide not only exposition but genuine emotional support, forming a found family that adds heart to the otherwise high-stakes, high-stress journey. Their bond with Bay is one of the book’s most moving elements. The slow-burn romantic thread promises future emotional depth in upcoming installments.
Overall, this is a compelling start to a series that dares to ask difficult questions about truth, trust, and transformation. Readers looking for something darker and more original in the mermaid fantasy space will find plenty to love beneath these troubled waters.
Bay has always felt the ocean’s call—but when it finally answers, it comes with secrets as deep and dark as the waves. When a mysterious boy with ocean-born magic washes ashore, Bay is drawn into a hidden world of ancient power, cursed queens, and a war brewing beneath the tides. As her own magic awakens, Bay must choose between the light and dark within her… before everything she loves is swept away.
Water Wishes offers a refreshingly haunting twist on traditional mermaid tales, trading glittering scales and seafoam romance for a murkier, more treacherous underwater world. Told through the eyes of Bay, a 15-year-old girl on the run, the novel grips you from page one with its blend of mystery, magic, and the aching questions of identity. Bay’s perspective is laced with uncertainty—an unreliable narrator whose confusion and desperation are palpable, making each revelation as shocking to the reader as it is to her.
The narrative thrives on its eerie ocean atmosphere and emotionally layered storytelling. Bay’s life has been shaped by secrets and lies, and as those layers are peeled back, what emerges is a powerful coming-of-age journey underscored by the pain of not knowing where—or who—you truly belong. Despite the odds, Bay remains a fierce and self-reliant protagonist, facing betrayal, danger, and heartbreak with a quiet bravery that’s both realistic and inspiring.
The worldbuilding is a standout feature. The lore surrounding mermaid cities, soul bonds, curses, and mer-magic feels fresh and vividly imagined, offering a unique mythology that’s far darker and more whimsical than the genre typically allows. Side characters Cyrus and Catalina provide not only exposition but genuine emotional support, forming a found family that adds heart to the otherwise high-stakes, high-stress journey. Their bond with Bay is one of the book’s most moving elements. The slow-burn romantic thread promises future emotional depth in upcoming installments.
Overall, this is a compelling start to a series that dares to ask difficult questions about truth, trust, and transformation. Readers looking for something darker and more original in the mermaid fantasy space will find plenty to love beneath these troubled waters.
June 29, 2025
"Above them, the stars burned brighter than ever. She still longed to meet her mother, but tonight, she did not want the journey to end. Cyrus and Catalina were no longer just guides. They were becoming her family. And now she knew, without hesitation, she would fight for them too."
Thank you to the author for including me in the team of advanced readers.
Water Wishes: Bound By Tides is about the journey to self-discovery of 15-year old Bay. Growing up, things weren't easy for Bay. She knew something was different but quite unsure why. Curiously, she had been forbidden by her father from the sea and Bay only thought it was because her father had a trauma from losing her mother. Until one day, she found out that she was, in fact, a mermaid! (Or is she?)
Together with Light-Voice, Bay discovered her own strength, her power, the love and beauty of found-family as well as the courage to forging your own path. This is a magical YA perfect for readers who are into mermaids and the sea! There is no spice (just a kiss!) so it's perfect for teens. I love how the cities and towns were beautifully written, it made me feel like jumping into the water and swim away from reality!
There will definitely be a second book and I can't wait to see what's in store for Bay! 🧜♀️
Thank you to the author for including me in the team of advanced readers.
Water Wishes: Bound By Tides is about the journey to self-discovery of 15-year old Bay. Growing up, things weren't easy for Bay. She knew something was different but quite unsure why. Curiously, she had been forbidden by her father from the sea and Bay only thought it was because her father had a trauma from losing her mother. Until one day, she found out that she was, in fact, a mermaid! (Or is she?)
Together with Light-Voice, Bay discovered her own strength, her power, the love and beauty of found-family as well as the courage to forging your own path. This is a magical YA perfect for readers who are into mermaids and the sea! There is no spice (just a kiss!) so it's perfect for teens. I love how the cities and towns were beautifully written, it made me feel like jumping into the water and swim away from reality!
There will definitely be a second book and I can't wait to see what's in store for Bay! 🧜♀️
June 28, 2025
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity to read this book!
I had such a good time with this story. The pacing was really good—it was a great mix of character building and plot development. I devoured this. I had a hard time finding places to pause so I could go to sleep because I wanted to keep going, I wanted to find out what was going to happen next. And the story just flows so smoothly. It was so often perfectly balanced—scene descriptions and setting blended seamlessly into the action. I think the chapters themselves were constructed really cleverly to keep the reader hooked, with cliffhangers on the last page that made me keep reading. Also, chapter titles! We need more books to do chapter titles again!
There’s found family elements, an almost 16-year old girl, Bay, trying to discover who she really is, mermaids (and I think a pretty cool spin on mermaid lore), sea witches, and a really interesting magic system. Bay’s journey to find her mother, even in defiance of the father that she loves and that loves her, and the friends she makes along that adventure ended up being a really beautiful story both of the love your family has for you, and also the familial love from friends you can find if family fails you.
There’s also elements in here of an internal battle of good vs evil and how each person is capable of both.
I’m very excited for Book 2 whenever it comes. I’m so interested to see where this story takes these characters next.
I had such a good time with this story. The pacing was really good—it was a great mix of character building and plot development. I devoured this. I had a hard time finding places to pause so I could go to sleep because I wanted to keep going, I wanted to find out what was going to happen next. And the story just flows so smoothly. It was so often perfectly balanced—scene descriptions and setting blended seamlessly into the action. I think the chapters themselves were constructed really cleverly to keep the reader hooked, with cliffhangers on the last page that made me keep reading. Also, chapter titles! We need more books to do chapter titles again!
There’s found family elements, an almost 16-year old girl, Bay, trying to discover who she really is, mermaids (and I think a pretty cool spin on mermaid lore), sea witches, and a really interesting magic system. Bay’s journey to find her mother, even in defiance of the father that she loves and that loves her, and the friends she makes along that adventure ended up being a really beautiful story both of the love your family has for you, and also the familial love from friends you can find if family fails you.
There’s also elements in here of an internal battle of good vs evil and how each person is capable of both.
I’m very excited for Book 2 whenever it comes. I’m so interested to see where this story takes these characters next.
July 7, 2025
5 ⭐️
First off I would like to thank Freya Aguiar for the ARC copy of Water Wishes Bound by Tides that I received for a honest review!
Bay has always been called to the ocean. However her father would never let get close to it. When Bay goes on a trip with a friends family eveything changes. Bay can no longer stay away from the ocean and is in search of answers with a light voice in her mind.
I really loved the setting of the book I have not read this type of book before and really enjoyed it. The characters are lovable and I am so glad that we still have light voice. I think the pacing was good I did get a little confused at the end but once I reread a couple of paragraphs it was fine. I would recommend this book to anyone that loves YA. It is worth the read 5 stars.
Overall I really enjoyed this book the characters are lovable and the plot was plotting! I can not wait for the second one to come out!
First off I would like to thank Freya Aguiar for the ARC copy of Water Wishes Bound by Tides that I received for a honest review!
Bay has always been called to the ocean. However her father would never let get close to it. When Bay goes on a trip with a friends family eveything changes. Bay can no longer stay away from the ocean and is in search of answers with a light voice in her mind.
I really loved the setting of the book I have not read this type of book before and really enjoyed it. The characters are lovable and I am so glad that we still have light voice. I think the pacing was good I did get a little confused at the end but once I reread a couple of paragraphs it was fine. I would recommend this book to anyone that loves YA. It is worth the read 5 stars.
Overall I really enjoyed this book the characters are lovable and the plot was plotting! I can not wait for the second one to come out!
June 24, 2025
What To Expect:
- mermaids
- magic
- slow burn
- found family
- ya
4.5⭐️
if you are like me and are a big h2o just add water fan or a mermaid fan in general, i definitely recommend giving this a read. i completely devoured this book. the characters were so loveable and the world building? outstanding! and that plot twist? i was not expecting that.
growing up i was obsessed with mermaids and honestly i still am. i just love mermaids and mermaid stories so i am so grateful that i was able to arc read this book. thank you so much freya aguiar for writing this and bringing me back to my childhood love of mermaids.
it is a very quick and fun read. perfect for the summer especially if you are reading at the beach or even poolside. i truly can't wait for the next book!
- mermaids
- magic
- slow burn
- found family
- ya
4.5⭐️
if you are like me and are a big h2o just add water fan or a mermaid fan in general, i definitely recommend giving this a read. i completely devoured this book. the characters were so loveable and the world building? outstanding! and that plot twist? i was not expecting that.
growing up i was obsessed with mermaids and honestly i still am. i just love mermaids and mermaid stories so i am so grateful that i was able to arc read this book. thank you so much freya aguiar for writing this and bringing me back to my childhood love of mermaids.
it is a very quick and fun read. perfect for the summer especially if you are reading at the beach or even poolside. i truly can't wait for the next book!
June 27, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ Wonderfully crafted!
Swept into a cataclysmic rolling seas,a queen Alluras turmoil and broken promises. Bonds ripped apart and a child at its mercy I was intrigued by mystery. Bay (Atlantis) a young girl with a pull to her past, called to the ocean like a sirens song. Brought up by her father, cautioned against approaching the ocean or any water body for her safety. Given a distorted version of reality, she was kept in the dark about deep-seated secrets that I myself had to know.
Will Bays discovery be her redemption or undoing? As the world around her is revealed, Bay evolves finding her true self. Crossing paths,forming strong bonds with Catalina and Cyrus (Loved these two characters) who become her new found family providing protection, stability, and loyalty. As the plot unfolds, the mystery yields to startling epiphanies. Just when you believe you understand, it takes an unexpected turn. Leaving you on the edge of your seat with a (save them) sentiment and climatic ending!
Swept into a cataclysmic rolling seas,a queen Alluras turmoil and broken promises. Bonds ripped apart and a child at its mercy I was intrigued by mystery. Bay (Atlantis) a young girl with a pull to her past, called to the ocean like a sirens song. Brought up by her father, cautioned against approaching the ocean or any water body for her safety. Given a distorted version of reality, she was kept in the dark about deep-seated secrets that I myself had to know.
Will Bays discovery be her redemption or undoing? As the world around her is revealed, Bay evolves finding her true self. Crossing paths,forming strong bonds with Catalina and Cyrus (Loved these two characters) who become her new found family providing protection, stability, and loyalty. As the plot unfolds, the mystery yields to startling epiphanies. Just when you believe you understand, it takes an unexpected turn. Leaving you on the edge of your seat with a (save them) sentiment and climatic ending!
June 30, 2025
I absolutely fell head over heels for this new awesome YA coming of age fantasy series! Water Wishes is about Bay, a 15 year old girl that discovers she’s been lied to her whole life about who she is and the world around her. Once she begins to uncover the lies she decides that she has to know more. The story follows Bay and her discovery of the hidden realities of the world and her personal life.
I felt that Bound by Tides is great for the first book of the series. The world building is strong and the descriptions beautiful. Bay’s found family, her struggles with teen girl emotions, and her epic adventure through the sea had me on the edge of me seat in suspense, laughing out loud, and crying a few tears too!
I felt that Bound by Tides is great for the first book of the series. The world building is strong and the descriptions beautiful. Bay’s found family, her struggles with teen girl emotions, and her epic adventure through the sea had me on the edge of me seat in suspense, laughing out loud, and crying a few tears too!
July 16, 2025
"You're Not Broken... You're Just Alive".
Spoiler Alert?...perhaps lol
WOW! Water Wishes Bound By Tides has quickly become one of my favorite mermaid tales (pun intended, as always, 🤭). I was definitely captivated by the journey from the very first page to the last. Bay's character development throughout the novel was epic to read.
I really enjoy when a story keeps me intrigued and on my toes, and Water Wishes does just that. The unexpected twists and turns kept me engaged, while the vibrant underwater world was depicted with such creativity and detail that I felt as if I were swimming alongside the characters ( The way the author described Catalina turning into a mermaid was everything! , and when Bay used her wish magic) . The blend of myth and reality was flawlessly executed aswell.
I was especially drawn to the themes of self discovery and resilience that resonated powerfully throughout the narrative. Each chapter left me craving more,like Bay's calling to the sea and the emotional depth added layers that made the story genuinely unforgettable. I can't wait to read about her and her sisters next adventure IYKYK 👑❣️❣️❣️
It was a true pleasure being apart of the Water Wishes Launch team @thewestwitchllc !!! Tysm!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐.85
1. 🚫🌶️
2.forced proximity
3. found family
4. mermaids🧜🏽♀️✨
5.Sea witch 🧙🏽♀️
6.Mer-Towns 🌆
7. Mer/Wish Magic 🪄
Spoiler Alert?...perhaps lol
WOW! Water Wishes Bound By Tides has quickly become one of my favorite mermaid tales (pun intended, as always, 🤭). I was definitely captivated by the journey from the very first page to the last. Bay's character development throughout the novel was epic to read.
I really enjoy when a story keeps me intrigued and on my toes, and Water Wishes does just that. The unexpected twists and turns kept me engaged, while the vibrant underwater world was depicted with such creativity and detail that I felt as if I were swimming alongside the characters ( The way the author described Catalina turning into a mermaid was everything! , and when Bay used her wish magic) . The blend of myth and reality was flawlessly executed aswell.
I was especially drawn to the themes of self discovery and resilience that resonated powerfully throughout the narrative. Each chapter left me craving more,like Bay's calling to the sea and the emotional depth added layers that made the story genuinely unforgettable. I can't wait to read about her and her sisters next adventure IYKYK 👑❣️❣️❣️
It was a true pleasure being apart of the Water Wishes Launch team @thewestwitchllc !!! Tysm!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐.85
1. 🚫🌶️
2.forced proximity
3. found family
4. mermaids🧜🏽♀️✨
5.Sea witch 🧙🏽♀️
6.Mer-Towns 🌆
7. Mer/Wish Magic 🪄
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive this book as an ARC reader and it did not disappoint. I do not usually enjoy YA books, but after reading some heavy emotional stories I found this to be a good change of pace. The story is intriguing right from the beginning. I was hooked after the prologue, which I didn't think was really possible. You also can't help but love the characters. Even the main "villain" is loveable in their own way.
This could very easily be a standalone book, but I am very happy that there is a second in the works. This is a great light read for adults or intro to fantasy for teenagers.
This could very easily be a standalone book, but I am very happy that there is a second in the works. This is a great light read for adults or intro to fantasy for teenagers.
June 17, 2025
Water Wishes by Freya Aguiar is a magical, emotional ride that completely pulled me in. The ocean-based magic was fresh and vivid, and the main character's journey of self-discovery really hit home.
What kept me hooked were the small twists, just enough surprise to keep things moving and stop the story from feeling predictable. And that ending? It gave me the same emotional feels as an '80s coming-of-age movie. Think Breakfast Club. Heartfelt and unforgettable.
Highly recommend if you love fantasy with strong emotions and a little mystery mixed in.
What kept me hooked were the small twists, just enough surprise to keep things moving and stop the story from feeling predictable. And that ending? It gave me the same emotional feels as an '80s coming-of-age movie. Think Breakfast Club. Heartfelt and unforgettable.
Highly recommend if you love fantasy with strong emotions and a little mystery mixed in.
June 17, 2025
This book has lots of twists and turns and a surprise ending! This is a great book not only for adult fantasy readers who love a good mermaid book, but also for teens who maybe need a good summer reading book for school. I enjoyed reading it. It can normally take me months to get through a single book because my life is crazy but I read this in 4 days because it held my interest and I needed to know where Bay, the main character, came from and what her story was.
June 29, 2025
This was such a fun story!
Not only are mermaids real but met-villages just off the Oregon coast? My inner child is so happy!
The magic of the ocean comes to life in this book, the good, the bad and everything in between!
I’m not going to lie my age was showing at the beginning when a 15 year old ran away from her dad in the middle of the night to flee to the ocean! But the adventure and world building was worth it!!
The found family and uncovered mysteries are so beautiful! Bay is so brave and strong and Atlantis is the best sidekick! I’m so excited for book two to see what adventures come next!
Not only are mermaids real but met-villages just off the Oregon coast? My inner child is so happy!
The magic of the ocean comes to life in this book, the good, the bad and everything in between!
I’m not going to lie my age was showing at the beginning when a 15 year old ran away from her dad in the middle of the night to flee to the ocean! But the adventure and world building was worth it!!
The found family and uncovered mysteries are so beautiful! Bay is so brave and strong and Atlantis is the best sidekick! I’m so excited for book two to see what adventures come next!
July 2, 2025
OH
MY
GOSH
I LOOOOOVE YA from time to time and this absolutely knocked my socks off.
I started reading thinking oh fun a cure whimsical bubbly mermaid story how fun! I love mermaids! Then little tidbits start coming up and I kept trying to figure out what’s happening and everytime I thought I knew I was WRONG! In the BEST way!
The main charectors journey was absolutely beautiful and the plot twists as we get ready to wrap up OMG!
So we follow bay, Atlantis bay but we grow up and think it doesn’t fit us anymore so we Stick to bay.
Bay has felt and insatiable pull to the sea and a guiding voice in her head since she could remember. Dad is VERY insistent she can’t go to the beach, but why?
Bay decides since (while far from home) to slip away and seek answers for herself. And so the story unfolds.
Outside of my busy schedule I absolutely tore through this such a fun read and I enjoyed it so much!
And the way we’re teased about BOOK 2?! And how it’s described I’m going to be snag that as soon as I get a whiff! LOL
please do your self a favor if you like magic mermaids YA and magic pick up water wishes :
Bound by tides you WONT regret it ❤️
MY
GOSH
I LOOOOOVE YA from time to time and this absolutely knocked my socks off.
I started reading thinking oh fun a cure whimsical bubbly mermaid story how fun! I love mermaids! Then little tidbits start coming up and I kept trying to figure out what’s happening and everytime I thought I knew I was WRONG! In the BEST way!
The main charectors journey was absolutely beautiful and the plot twists as we get ready to wrap up OMG!
So we follow bay, Atlantis bay but we grow up and think it doesn’t fit us anymore so we Stick to bay.
Bay has felt and insatiable pull to the sea and a guiding voice in her head since she could remember. Dad is VERY insistent she can’t go to the beach, but why?
Bay decides since (while far from home) to slip away and seek answers for herself. And so the story unfolds.
Outside of my busy schedule I absolutely tore through this such a fun read and I enjoyed it so much!
And the way we’re teased about BOOK 2?! And how it’s described I’m going to be snag that as soon as I get a whiff! LOL
please do your self a favor if you like magic mermaids YA and magic pick up water wishes :
Bound by tides you WONT regret it ❤️
July 8, 2025
Thank you to The West Witch LLC for providing me with a copy of the book. I am excited to leave a review.
Water Wishes: Bound by Tides was a fun YA story with an interesting take on The Little Mermaid. Bay is a relatable teenager in her desire for freedom and to find out who she is. The side characters are interesting as well and create a beautiful support system for Bay.
I look forward to seeing what else is in store for these characters as there is definitely an opening for further books.
Water Wishes: Bound by Tides was a fun YA story with an interesting take on The Little Mermaid. Bay is a relatable teenager in her desire for freedom and to find out who she is. The side characters are interesting as well and create a beautiful support system for Bay.
I look forward to seeing what else is in store for these characters as there is definitely an opening for further books.
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