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What The Sea Knows
“. . . let the sea tell you of what it knows.”
Trapped and reeling from a brutal breakup, Holly needs an escape. When an opportunity to visit Ireland arises, she seizes it. Encouraged by family and friends, she uproots her life, hoping to start a quaint business and unearth the woman she's buried. No commitments, no obligations—just Holly.
Then there’s Michael.
Grumpy and charming, Michael is everything Holly doesn't need while rediscovering herself. As one of the island's only licensed contractors, he's deeply entwined with the lighthouse she invests in. His story is anything but kind—tragedy runs decades deep in his veins—but he offers a comfort that Holly can’t ignore. A vow for more.
But life isn’t so simple. Locals whisper about a curse tied to selkie folklore. A series of bizarre deaths plagues the region where the lighthouse stands. When that threatens the budding relationship between Michael and Holly, they decide to solve the mystery surrounding the lighthouse. What they uncover reveals a world far beyond their own. As passion ignites and the sea howls for retribution, she must uncover the truth before the past claims her future, and love is lost to the unforgivable waters.
A dark history.
An unforgivable secret.
A second chance.
Trapped and reeling from a brutal breakup, Holly needs an escape. When an opportunity to visit Ireland arises, she seizes it. Encouraged by family and friends, she uproots her life, hoping to start a quaint business and unearth the woman she's buried. No commitments, no obligations—just Holly.
Then there’s Michael.
Grumpy and charming, Michael is everything Holly doesn't need while rediscovering herself. As one of the island's only licensed contractors, he's deeply entwined with the lighthouse she invests in. His story is anything but kind—tragedy runs decades deep in his veins—but he offers a comfort that Holly can’t ignore. A vow for more.
But life isn’t so simple. Locals whisper about a curse tied to selkie folklore. A series of bizarre deaths plagues the region where the lighthouse stands. When that threatens the budding relationship between Michael and Holly, they decide to solve the mystery surrounding the lighthouse. What they uncover reveals a world far beyond their own. As passion ignites and the sea howls for retribution, she must uncover the truth before the past claims her future, and love is lost to the unforgivable waters.
A dark history.
An unforgivable secret.
A second chance.
211 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 28, 2025
8 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
About the author
J.K. Divia
4 books76 followersJ.K Divia is a dark fantasy, mythological horror, and contemporary paranormal author whose work is inspired by folklore, selkie lore, witches, and world mythology. Through her stories, she brings readers on emotional journeys that explore loss, resilience, and transformation.
When not writing, you can find her spending time with her family, chasing after her kids.
When not writing, you can find her spending time with her family, chasing after her kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
August 7, 2025
I'm a huge fan of myself :)
August 18, 2025
ARC reader review:
TLDR version is: this is an incredible haunting coastal mystery with Irish folklore as the driving force. Holly’s story is a self discovery journey that takes you to the rocky Irish coast where old magic and generational curses lure you into the sea. Get ready to be swept up in a dangerous brewing coastal storm, and you’ll be thanking the storm by the end.
My full review:
This story is 155 pages, and it’s both enough and not enough. It’s not enough only because I can never get enough of JK Divia’s writing. But I am thoroughly satisfied. I feel peaceful. And I am in awe that this story had me longing for something I know I don’t want. I don’t much care for ocean activities or being in seawater. Never have. But as I read What the Sea Knows, it was effortless to immerse myself in the story and to understand the draw of the sea. Like walking a mile without your selkie coat on.
The sea takes you on a journey, and the sea takes what it wants. Who am I to argue with a force of nature?
This whole story feels like witnessing a storm from the beginning to end. Holly’s inner turmoil is the storm brewing. We see the clouds darken and roll in from the horizon. We see the calm before the storm as she finds her place and is called to home on the rocky Irish coast. We see the energy build up to a peak, and we see the ocean release that energy and the waves calm at end when the cycle is broken. And in all the beauty, the power, the grace and chaos of the sea, its allure is undeniable. This story stirs up old magic. Reminds us that superstitions and folklore aren’t just that-there’s a reason for that tingle we get in our skin when we feel something is off. Reminds us to trust our instinct. Don’t ignore the call to home. Trust In the memories of your ancestors engraved in your bones. The suspense that built in the last few chapters felt like one big stormy tidal wave building up. Getting larger and dark and more foreboding, and finally instead of a devastating crash that would wipe out a lighthouse, it becomes a part of the sea again and lets the moving waters bring calm and renewal to those standing in it.
It felt fast after the fact, but there's nothing I would change.
The chapter titles are so charmingly named. I really enjoyed those as previews. The artwork is stunning. And the pronunciation guide in the beginning is very helpful! I would recommend bookmarking it for easy flipping!
TLDR version is: this is an incredible haunting coastal mystery with Irish folklore as the driving force. Holly’s story is a self discovery journey that takes you to the rocky Irish coast where old magic and generational curses lure you into the sea. Get ready to be swept up in a dangerous brewing coastal storm, and you’ll be thanking the storm by the end.
My full review:
This story is 155 pages, and it’s both enough and not enough. It’s not enough only because I can never get enough of JK Divia’s writing. But I am thoroughly satisfied. I feel peaceful. And I am in awe that this story had me longing for something I know I don’t want. I don’t much care for ocean activities or being in seawater. Never have. But as I read What the Sea Knows, it was effortless to immerse myself in the story and to understand the draw of the sea. Like walking a mile without your selkie coat on.
The sea takes you on a journey, and the sea takes what it wants. Who am I to argue with a force of nature?
This whole story feels like witnessing a storm from the beginning to end. Holly’s inner turmoil is the storm brewing. We see the clouds darken and roll in from the horizon. We see the calm before the storm as she finds her place and is called to home on the rocky Irish coast. We see the energy build up to a peak, and we see the ocean release that energy and the waves calm at end when the cycle is broken. And in all the beauty, the power, the grace and chaos of the sea, its allure is undeniable. This story stirs up old magic. Reminds us that superstitions and folklore aren’t just that-there’s a reason for that tingle we get in our skin when we feel something is off. Reminds us to trust our instinct. Don’t ignore the call to home. Trust In the memories of your ancestors engraved in your bones. The suspense that built in the last few chapters felt like one big stormy tidal wave building up. Getting larger and dark and more foreboding, and finally instead of a devastating crash that would wipe out a lighthouse, it becomes a part of the sea again and lets the moving waters bring calm and renewal to those standing in it.
It felt fast after the fact, but there's nothing I would change.
The chapter titles are so charmingly named. I really enjoyed those as previews. The artwork is stunning. And the pronunciation guide in the beginning is very helpful! I would recommend bookmarking it for easy flipping!
September 15, 2025
This was my first Selkie book and I'm blown away. Lore meets self discovery. As well as a rather fun and beautiful flow of soul recognition. There's topics that are dark so please read those content warnings. No on page spice but has a handsomely quirky MMC. There is mystery here that I love and also love the different realizations within this incredible book.
✨️not everyone can see your light
✨️sometimes new beginnings can look like running away
✨️secrets are only given to those trusted
✨️the sea always knows
✨️📚✨️
✨️not everyone can see your light
✨️sometimes new beginnings can look like running away
✨️secrets are only given to those trusted
✨️the sea always knows
✨️📚✨️
October 25, 2025
This novella is a mixture of Irish folklore and enemies-to-lovers romance, despite Holly’s best intentions against it.
What starts off as a new journey for Holly, after her heartbreak, turns into a chance to rediscover who she is, and find her strength again. Holly is feisty and determined, and is willing to fight for what she wants, even if that means making enemies with a local-but she would be happier avoiding that. And surrounding Holly is the tumultuous sea; a metaphor (or so it seems) for the upheaval of Holly’s life. But it goes deeper than that-much deeper.
What I enjoyed about this novella is the fresh take on the Selkie folklore. It becomes more than just a stolen piece of oneself that keeps them hostage in a place not their own. Divia creates an intergenerational story of feeling unmoored but not knowing why; of feeling like you are different but no way of answering that feeling. And Holly isn’t the only one feeling that way. There are others on the island who feel the truth in their bones, even if they can’t articulate it.
Divia also gives us a story of second chances. It doesn’t feel forced for the sake of having a romantic element the tale. It’s a gradual understanding and connection, and becomes deeper the longer it blossoms and flourishes. The author also provides a double meaning for the “second chance” trope, but you’ll have to read the story to find out what that means. 🙂
Overall, I enjoyed this novella, and I think you will, too. 4.25 stars
A big thank you to the author for my arc. My opinion is my own.
What starts off as a new journey for Holly, after her heartbreak, turns into a chance to rediscover who she is, and find her strength again. Holly is feisty and determined, and is willing to fight for what she wants, even if that means making enemies with a local-but she would be happier avoiding that. And surrounding Holly is the tumultuous sea; a metaphor (or so it seems) for the upheaval of Holly’s life. But it goes deeper than that-much deeper.
What I enjoyed about this novella is the fresh take on the Selkie folklore. It becomes more than just a stolen piece of oneself that keeps them hostage in a place not their own. Divia creates an intergenerational story of feeling unmoored but not knowing why; of feeling like you are different but no way of answering that feeling. And Holly isn’t the only one feeling that way. There are others on the island who feel the truth in their bones, even if they can’t articulate it.
Divia also gives us a story of second chances. It doesn’t feel forced for the sake of having a romantic element the tale. It’s a gradual understanding and connection, and becomes deeper the longer it blossoms and flourishes. The author also provides a double meaning for the “second chance” trope, but you’ll have to read the story to find out what that means. 🙂
Overall, I enjoyed this novella, and I think you will, too. 4.25 stars
A big thank you to the author for my arc. My opinion is my own.
August 11, 2025
I really enjoyed this one! I love a good mystery with romantic elements that are continued throughout! Being able to see the characters growth throughout was amazing! The author keeps you fully present during this story that I don’t see often when a mystery is involved!
A great beach read for the summer or honestly a great read for whenever! I absolutely love any and all folklore so being able to dive into that aspect of this read was so fun for me! It definitely sent me down a rabbit hole of research that I was not expecting but am also not disappointed in at all!
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A great beach read for the summer or honestly a great read for whenever! I absolutely love any and all folklore so being able to dive into that aspect of this read was so fun for me! It definitely sent me down a rabbit hole of research that I was not expecting but am also not disappointed in at all!
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 16, 2025
I read What The Sea Knows as an arc reader in exchange for my honest opinion of the book.
Excellent story of a young woman struggling to find her place in life, a leap of faith, ancestry and folklore.
I highly recommend What The Sea Knows.
Excellent story of a young woman struggling to find her place in life, a leap of faith, ancestry and folklore.
I highly recommend What The Sea Knows.
August 13, 2025
This story packs as much as it can into 155 pages. Mystery, intrigue, fate, folklore and new beginnings. I just wish it was longer so it could be drawn out and I was able to stay in this world for longer
October 28, 2025
ARC reader review:
When the aftermath of a failed relationship drives Holly to the rugged coast of Ireland, she finds a chance for a new beginning under the watchful eye of the crumbling Tuir lighthouse.
She soon meets Michael, a brooding contractor haunted by his own troubled past. As whispers of Selkie curses and mysterious deaths surface from the sea, their undeniable attraction is tested by a wild and untamed force that neither are prepared for.
A dark history.
A forbidden secret.
A second chance
In this stunning piece of fiction inspired by selkie folklore, J. K. Divia sends you off to Ireland with main character Holly to restore a lighthouse… and what’s left of her life. She encounters a whole host of locals who help her piece together a local landmark, a mystery, and a family secret.
Divia’s writing is so immersive, it’s impossible not to feel like you are right beside Holly, whether it’s at post- race brunch with her girlfriends or rolling up your sleeves to help her scrub, patch, and dote upon a lighthouse overlooking the sea.
A lovely, brief read at 155 pages that you won’t want to put down. Get ready to deep dive into the icy waters of selkie folklore with this one!
When the aftermath of a failed relationship drives Holly to the rugged coast of Ireland, she finds a chance for a new beginning under the watchful eye of the crumbling Tuir lighthouse.
She soon meets Michael, a brooding contractor haunted by his own troubled past. As whispers of Selkie curses and mysterious deaths surface from the sea, their undeniable attraction is tested by a wild and untamed force that neither are prepared for.
A dark history.
A forbidden secret.
A second chance
In this stunning piece of fiction inspired by selkie folklore, J. K. Divia sends you off to Ireland with main character Holly to restore a lighthouse… and what’s left of her life. She encounters a whole host of locals who help her piece together a local landmark, a mystery, and a family secret.
Divia’s writing is so immersive, it’s impossible not to feel like you are right beside Holly, whether it’s at post- race brunch with her girlfriends or rolling up your sleeves to help her scrub, patch, and dote upon a lighthouse overlooking the sea.
A lovely, brief read at 155 pages that you won’t want to put down. Get ready to deep dive into the icy waters of selkie folklore with this one!
August 22, 2025
What The Sea Knows, apparently, is how to put me in an absolute chokehold.
J.K. Divia’s ability to spin such a fresh and enjoyable story from folklore as iconic as that of Selkie’s without watering it down or losing the heart of it is just magical. We are so fantastically dropped right into a modern setting with a character that’s easy to relate to and while it takes a while to get to the supernatural aspects, the transition feels natural and we are FED.
I’m so honoured to have been included as an ARC reader on this project and Divia is very quickly becoming the next big bookshelf collection in my household 👀
J.K. Divia’s ability to spin such a fresh and enjoyable story from folklore as iconic as that of Selkie’s without watering it down or losing the heart of it is just magical. We are so fantastically dropped right into a modern setting with a character that’s easy to relate to and while it takes a while to get to the supernatural aspects, the transition feels natural and we are FED.
I’m so honoured to have been included as an ARC reader on this project and Divia is very quickly becoming the next big bookshelf collection in my household 👀
October 26, 2025
Thank you to the author J.K Divia for my copy, this is my honest review.
What a refreshing book, I tend to avoid contemporary romance books in favour of romantasy but I am so glad I got to read this as it gripped me from the very first page. The FMC Holly was a character who grew and developed as the book went on and I found her self doubts and fears compelling reading. I loved going on this new chapter in her life and opening herself up to an unknown world.
I adore MMC Michael, brooding and charming he was the perfect amount of both and the tension between the two of them was fizzing off the page.
The mystery and Selkie folklore in Ireland were intriguing and I admit it was what first drew me to request the ARC. I loved finding out more about this fascinating folklore. The book was atmospheric and addictive, I can tell you I wasn't happy when I had to put the book down to go to work! And I promptly finished it when I got home that night.
Holly has come out of a failed relationship and is seeking something, anything to help her understand her life and what to do or how to change. A chance mention by a friend about renovating a property in Ireland has her on a new path, she takes a chance and starts again.
Plagued by doubts and practicalities of how to make her life work she buys a property that speaks to her soul. Finding the enigmatic and moody Michael is also wanting it. They come to an uneasy truce and slowly they start the project. Being so immersed in the project she picks up on the strange curse surrounding the place and the pull of the local folklore. Plagued by vivid nightmares of a woman, she wonders if she can solve the mystery of who she is but can she do it in time or will she too succumb to the curse.
What a refreshing book, I tend to avoid contemporary romance books in favour of romantasy but I am so glad I got to read this as it gripped me from the very first page. The FMC Holly was a character who grew and developed as the book went on and I found her self doubts and fears compelling reading. I loved going on this new chapter in her life and opening herself up to an unknown world.
I adore MMC Michael, brooding and charming he was the perfect amount of both and the tension between the two of them was fizzing off the page.
The mystery and Selkie folklore in Ireland were intriguing and I admit it was what first drew me to request the ARC. I loved finding out more about this fascinating folklore. The book was atmospheric and addictive, I can tell you I wasn't happy when I had to put the book down to go to work! And I promptly finished it when I got home that night.
Holly has come out of a failed relationship and is seeking something, anything to help her understand her life and what to do or how to change. A chance mention by a friend about renovating a property in Ireland has her on a new path, she takes a chance and starts again.
Plagued by doubts and practicalities of how to make her life work she buys a property that speaks to her soul. Finding the enigmatic and moody Michael is also wanting it. They come to an uneasy truce and slowly they start the project. Being so immersed in the project she picks up on the strange curse surrounding the place and the pull of the local folklore. Plagued by vivid nightmares of a woman, she wonders if she can solve the mystery of who she is but can she do it in time or will she too succumb to the curse.
November 20, 2025
**ARC Reader Review**
I have read all of JK Divia’s books so far, and this one is my favorite. Wait a minute – didn’t I say that about the last one? They just keep getting better.
After suffering through a devastating breakup, Holly embarks on the process of rebuilding her life – and rediscovering who she is. With encouragement from her mom and her BFFs, Holly resigns from her stable-but-boring day job and moves overseas to chase a life-long dream. She finds a gorgeous old lighthouse in which to make her home and open her business, and in the process connects with potential love interest, Michael. She also discovers more than she bargained for when she learns of a curse that has haunted the lighthouse for decades. Will Holly be able to overcome her demons – both emotional and, possibly, literal?
Divia does an excellent job of capturing the brutal aftermath of escaping an abusive relationship, and I loved reading about Holly’s journey from crushing self-doubt to following her dreams and fulfilling her destiny. The novel seamlessly blends a story of finding oneself with ancient folklore, resulting in a spell-binding tale. Though they are not connected, What the Sea Knows is reminiscent of Divia’s first book, A Sea of Blood and Tears, with its focus on Celtic and Norse mythology and the appearance of the Selkies. This was an enjoyable read and I look forward to more of Divia’s books!
P.S. Bonus stars for the character who’s named after me! 😉
I have read all of JK Divia’s books so far, and this one is my favorite. Wait a minute – didn’t I say that about the last one? They just keep getting better.
After suffering through a devastating breakup, Holly embarks on the process of rebuilding her life – and rediscovering who she is. With encouragement from her mom and her BFFs, Holly resigns from her stable-but-boring day job and moves overseas to chase a life-long dream. She finds a gorgeous old lighthouse in which to make her home and open her business, and in the process connects with potential love interest, Michael. She also discovers more than she bargained for when she learns of a curse that has haunted the lighthouse for decades. Will Holly be able to overcome her demons – both emotional and, possibly, literal?
Divia does an excellent job of capturing the brutal aftermath of escaping an abusive relationship, and I loved reading about Holly’s journey from crushing self-doubt to following her dreams and fulfilling her destiny. The novel seamlessly blends a story of finding oneself with ancient folklore, resulting in a spell-binding tale. Though they are not connected, What the Sea Knows is reminiscent of Divia’s first book, A Sea of Blood and Tears, with its focus on Celtic and Norse mythology and the appearance of the Selkies. This was an enjoyable read and I look forward to more of Divia’s books!
P.S. Bonus stars for the character who’s named after me! 😉
August 22, 2025
A twisty, haunting tale of identity, belief in yourself, and the role history can play on holding us back from our truest forms.
Holly is heartbroken- she’s been left with a broken engagement to a man who made her feel less than, a life that doesn’t feel authentic, and self esteem issues that keep her stuck. With the support of her friends and her mom, she decides to take a leap, and journey to Ireland (a place she’s always felt drawn to) to start her next chapter.
Once in Ireland, Holly faces mysterious strangers and increasingly weird occurrences, all seemingly tied to a beautiful lighthouse full of local legends and decades-old sorrow. This story brings the reader along with her, feeling the ocean air on our faces the whole way.
Rounded to 4 stars! This leans adult fiction with sprinkles of romance, fantasy, and mystery. The writing is straightforward and clear, and there is a whole host of characters to meet. I wish we’d gotten a little more time to invest in getting to know them, but 155 pages such a doable read. Thank you SO much to the author (JK Divia) for an early copy of her newest novel!
Holly is heartbroken- she’s been left with a broken engagement to a man who made her feel less than, a life that doesn’t feel authentic, and self esteem issues that keep her stuck. With the support of her friends and her mom, she decides to take a leap, and journey to Ireland (a place she’s always felt drawn to) to start her next chapter.
Once in Ireland, Holly faces mysterious strangers and increasingly weird occurrences, all seemingly tied to a beautiful lighthouse full of local legends and decades-old sorrow. This story brings the reader along with her, feeling the ocean air on our faces the whole way.
Rounded to 4 stars! This leans adult fiction with sprinkles of romance, fantasy, and mystery. The writing is straightforward and clear, and there is a whole host of characters to meet. I wish we’d gotten a little more time to invest in getting to know them, but 155 pages such a doable read. Thank you SO much to the author (JK Divia) for an early copy of her newest novel!
October 29, 2025
✨RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✨SPICE: 🫑
✨PUBLISHED 10/28/25 - AVAILABLE NOW!!
✨REVIEW:
I connected with the FMC, Holly, from the very beginning when she’s struggling through a 5k race wit her friends after not running for a while. Her relationship history and desire to buy a fixer upper lighthouse property on the Irish Coast to start over also were relatable. I loved the Irish setting and the incorporation of Selkie lore, which is an area I haven’t read much about before.
The romance was also sweet, although I would have liked a little more for a true ‘enemies to lovers’ situation. Although they didn’t like each other at first that seemed to get glossed over pretty fast, and I would have liked more relationship development.
I enjoyed the mystery of the generational curse that repeats every seven years and trying to break it before the seven year is up. There were a couple of surprising elements at the end, and overall it makes me want to start planning my next trip to Ireland ASAP.
Recommend for anyone who likes a cozy, mysterious vibe with a low spice romance- and the Irish Coast setting as a bonus!
✨I was grateful to receive an Advanced Reader Copy of What the Sea Knows, and all opinions are my own
✨SPICE: 🫑
✨PUBLISHED 10/28/25 - AVAILABLE NOW!!
✨REVIEW:
I connected with the FMC, Holly, from the very beginning when she’s struggling through a 5k race wit her friends after not running for a while. Her relationship history and desire to buy a fixer upper lighthouse property on the Irish Coast to start over also were relatable. I loved the Irish setting and the incorporation of Selkie lore, which is an area I haven’t read much about before.
The romance was also sweet, although I would have liked a little more for a true ‘enemies to lovers’ situation. Although they didn’t like each other at first that seemed to get glossed over pretty fast, and I would have liked more relationship development.
I enjoyed the mystery of the generational curse that repeats every seven years and trying to break it before the seven year is up. There were a couple of surprising elements at the end, and overall it makes me want to start planning my next trip to Ireland ASAP.
Recommend for anyone who likes a cozy, mysterious vibe with a low spice romance- and the Irish Coast setting as a bonus!
✨I was grateful to receive an Advanced Reader Copy of What the Sea Knows, and all opinions are my own
October 30, 2025
This novella draws you in and keeps you engaged from beginning to end. When Holly leaves everything she knows behind to buy a lighthouse in Ireland, she eagerly embraces her fresh start. Although she is warned away from this particular property because of a supposed curse, Holly knows she is home the moment she walks in. As she begins to settle in and get to know her new surroundings, she suspects there is more to the story than she first believed.
The novella beautifully captures the magic and lore of Ireland through its tales of selkies and curses. With its ethereal atmosphere, the entire story feels as if it is wrapped in mist. The vivid imagery and descriptions draw you in and make it easy to picture the island and all that Holly encounters in her new home.
This book has a bit of everything: mystery, romance, magic, and comfort. I read it quickly and felt completely satisfied with how the story concluded. I’m glad I discovered this new-to-me author and look forward to reading more of their work in the future.
Thank you to J.K. Divia for an advanced copy of this eBook.
The novella beautifully captures the magic and lore of Ireland through its tales of selkies and curses. With its ethereal atmosphere, the entire story feels as if it is wrapped in mist. The vivid imagery and descriptions draw you in and make it easy to picture the island and all that Holly encounters in her new home.
This book has a bit of everything: mystery, romance, magic, and comfort. I read it quickly and felt completely satisfied with how the story concluded. I’m glad I discovered this new-to-me author and look forward to reading more of their work in the future.
Thank you to J.K. Divia for an advanced copy of this eBook.
October 29, 2025
4⭐️
Things I loved about this:
Chapter titles
Healing after a toxic relationship
Irish Folklore
Cursed Lighthouse
This was such a a good story of healing and finding yourself, interwoven with a little bit of romance and a lot of mystery. The selkie folklore and intrigue keep my hooked from the get-go.
“Maybe I’m the one changing.”
“Fixing up this place might be healing him more than it is me. I could get used to having him around me.”
I was gifted an ARC and I am leaving an honest review
Things I loved about this:
Chapter titles
Healing after a toxic relationship
Irish Folklore
Cursed Lighthouse
This was such a a good story of healing and finding yourself, interwoven with a little bit of romance and a lot of mystery. The selkie folklore and intrigue keep my hooked from the get-go.
“Maybe I’m the one changing.”
“Fixing up this place might be healing him more than it is me. I could get used to having him around me.”
I was gifted an ARC and I am leaving an honest review
October 23, 2025
“What the Sea Knows" is a spellbinding and hauntingly beautiful tale. J.K. Divia weaves a superbly constructed plot that moves with an inexorable tide, never rushed, yet always compelling. Woven throughout is a profound and resonant theme of searching for one's true home.
We experience this journey through Holly, an effortlessly relatable protagonist whose voice guides us into the world of Irish folklore and the enchanting legend of the Selkies. Her pull to the coastal lighthouse and cottage is palpable, and her initial sense of belonging there feels fated.
Yet, Divia masterfully subverts this idyllic setup with an undercurrent of menace. The Selkie's story is wielded not just for wonder, but for creating a truly ominous atmosphere. The final revelations unravel a dark secret and a profound loss, challenging Holly to right a wrong before she can hope for the peaceful future she desires.
We experience this journey through Holly, an effortlessly relatable protagonist whose voice guides us into the world of Irish folklore and the enchanting legend of the Selkies. Her pull to the coastal lighthouse and cottage is palpable, and her initial sense of belonging there feels fated.
Yet, Divia masterfully subverts this idyllic setup with an undercurrent of menace. The Selkie's story is wielded not just for wonder, but for creating a truly ominous atmosphere. The final revelations unravel a dark secret and a profound loss, challenging Holly to right a wrong before she can hope for the peaceful future she desires.
October 30, 2025
This was a fun and quick read for those who want to journey with a woman as she reclaims her power. Ireland, Irish folklore, women supporting women, a hot guy. It’s all here.
Additional:
-I love the clever chapter names. Bestie Boots and Grannie Panties was a particular favorite.
-The artwork throughout the book is lovely.
-Turning “the evil sea witch” trope on its head in a meaningful way: awesome!
I hope there’s a sequel!
Additional:
-I love the clever chapter names. Bestie Boots and Grannie Panties was a particular favorite.
-The artwork throughout the book is lovely.
-Turning “the evil sea witch” trope on its head in a meaningful way: awesome!
I hope there’s a sequel!
October 20, 2025
This is a wonderful read for this time of year. It has a very mystical & haunting quality to it. The story is driven by an FMC struggling with aging & trying to start over after a major break up. Her ex has moved on to someone new, yet she's trying to recapture who she once was & trying to find who she's meant to be. With the help of her mother & the pull of bonding with her ancestral roots she sets out on a mission to buy an old lighthouse in the UK.
She's forced to hit the ground running in a foreign land, knowing no one & having no help. Early in story it felt like parts drag more than they needed to & also still felt strangely too vague. As with most fiction books I think we're meant to avoid questioning the reality of certain things & accept things are done for the sake of moving along the story. After drifting through some of those building parts, this story absolutely finds its footing as Holly purchases the property & begins working with Michael whose family was the former owners.
From the start you can feel a love/hate relationship between them. Michael tried to prevent her from getting the property but then just so happens to be the only person the island who can help her fix it up to start the business she plans to make her livelihood. There is romantic tension between them while always keeping you wondering what Michael's true motives are. Throughout the story, Holly feels a pull to the sea & this property. She becomes obsessed with local selkie lore & the final third of the story takes us on a suspenseful journey to find the legend of this home & the family history of Holly & Michael.
You'll be gripped with solving the mystery. You're left questioning who you can trust & what will happen right to the end. The tension as we approach the finale is wonderful. I think JK did an incredible job of writing a story that feels both magical & fantasy but also completely relatable & authentically real. This will stick with a reader long after finishing the book. Every book I read from this author makes me yearn for the next book even more.
She's forced to hit the ground running in a foreign land, knowing no one & having no help. Early in story it felt like parts drag more than they needed to & also still felt strangely too vague. As with most fiction books I think we're meant to avoid questioning the reality of certain things & accept things are done for the sake of moving along the story. After drifting through some of those building parts, this story absolutely finds its footing as Holly purchases the property & begins working with Michael whose family was the former owners.
From the start you can feel a love/hate relationship between them. Michael tried to prevent her from getting the property but then just so happens to be the only person the island who can help her fix it up to start the business she plans to make her livelihood. There is romantic tension between them while always keeping you wondering what Michael's true motives are. Throughout the story, Holly feels a pull to the sea & this property. She becomes obsessed with local selkie lore & the final third of the story takes us on a suspenseful journey to find the legend of this home & the family history of Holly & Michael.
You'll be gripped with solving the mystery. You're left questioning who you can trust & what will happen right to the end. The tension as we approach the finale is wonderful. I think JK did an incredible job of writing a story that feels both magical & fantasy but also completely relatable & authentically real. This will stick with a reader long after finishing the book. Every book I read from this author makes me yearn for the next book even more.
November 3, 2025
ARC Review!!
What the Sea Knows
By J. K Divia
4⭐
Thank you again for the ARC and letting me be apart of the team!
I have not read many Selkie stories but I am somewhat familar on the myth about them. I really enjoyed what the author did for her story.
The story was beautiful, heart wrenching and tragic. I really felt for the main FMC quite a bit within the story. I loved the mystery behind the curse itself. Was it even real or just some made up tale? Those are honestly some of my favorites because it keeps me on my toes.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and its heart wrenching ending! Please check this one out!
What the Sea Knows
By J. K Divia
4⭐
Thank you again for the ARC and letting me be apart of the team!
I have not read many Selkie stories but I am somewhat familar on the myth about them. I really enjoyed what the author did for her story.
The story was beautiful, heart wrenching and tragic. I really felt for the main FMC quite a bit within the story. I loved the mystery behind the curse itself. Was it even real or just some made up tale? Those are honestly some of my favorites because it keeps me on my toes.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and its heart wrenching ending! Please check this one out!
November 3, 2025
well
Ok so it’s a quick less than 2 hour read if you’re a fast reader.
The wanting a change and moving and then uh yeah.
I don’t want to give spoilers so I’ll say it was an interesting little thing and I love the story.
Worth checking out
Ok so it’s a quick less than 2 hour read if you’re a fast reader.
The wanting a change and moving and then uh yeah.
I don’t want to give spoilers so I’ll say it was an interesting little thing and I love the story.
Worth checking out
October 6, 2025
As a shorter read, don't let that make you think any substance was sacrificed. We've got family, love, mystery, magic, and selkie lore all woven together so well. Holly is very relatable with both her running🏃🏼♀️and relationship struggles, and just wanting to find a fresh start away from all the negativity in her life. When she moves to Ireland, she's met with a quirky and questionable love interest and some uncanny experiences and discoveries. The mystery was so beautifully spun together with the history and lore of the area. I had no idea where things were going to go and I really enjoyed being along for the ride. I was so impressed with how the author was able to take an ending that may not entirely be considered a happy one and still make it so satisfying.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of the book to review!
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of the book to review!
December 4, 2025
Loved this story! Full of moody and atmospheric folklore and the characters were well developed. I was hooked from the first chapter. I look forward to reading more to come by this author!
October 23, 2025
Such an excellent read! Beautiful and detailed storytelling that transports the reader to Ireland! I loved the combination of a light slow-burn romance, Selkie and Irish folklore, and low-key breaking generational trauma cycles.
The Author's love & passion for storytelling is clearly written on the page. She did leave me with A LOT of questions at the end of Book one that I hope will be answered in Book two!!
What the Sea Knows is a must-read! Seriously, don't delay and pre-order now!!
The Author's love & passion for storytelling is clearly written on the page. She did leave me with A LOT of questions at the end of Book one that I hope will be answered in Book two!!
What the Sea Knows is a must-read! Seriously, don't delay and pre-order now!!
September 15, 2025
WOW!!! I sat down with my morning coffee planning to read just a few pages and somehow I found myself reading the entirety of What The Sea Knows in one sitting!
From the beginning the pacing of the story leaves you breathless in the best way as it races towards the climax. I felt like I was with Holly and Michael as the tension built and the curse swirled around them.
There were so many chilling moments beautifully offset by Holly’s growth and self discovery, as well as genuine moments of tenderness.
I felt like I was there, like I could taste the salty sea and the chilly Irish spring and summer air.
If you like stories where myth mingles with today, you have to pick this one up!
From the beginning the pacing of the story leaves you breathless in the best way as it races towards the climax. I felt like I was with Holly and Michael as the tension built and the curse swirled around them.
There were so many chilling moments beautifully offset by Holly’s growth and self discovery, as well as genuine moments of tenderness.
I felt like I was there, like I could taste the salty sea and the chilly Irish spring and summer air.
If you like stories where myth mingles with today, you have to pick this one up!
October 13, 2025
Wow. This story was amazing! Wonderful imagery, and a masterful telling that weaves the selkie legend from the past to modern day. Divia writes with a fluid and entrancing style, drawing you deep into the story, fully invested in learning the truth. also, the artwork is stunning!
August 31, 2025
From the very first page, I was pulled into this story with the promise of folklore and mystery. J.K Divia creates such a relatable and genuine character, someone you can’t help but root for, as she navigates a journey of rediscovery after coming out of a long, draining relationship. Watching her slowly find herself again makes the story not only engaging but also deeply heartfelt.
The plot is beautifully woven with touches of folklore, hints of love, and just the right amount of mystery. The pacing keeps everything moving seamlessly, and before you even realize it, you’ve been carried along to the end. What I especially loved were the subtle little easter eggs scattered throughout the story. The clever details that build up to that unforgettable cliffhanger.
This book feels like just the beginning of something bigger, and I truly hope the author continues the story. It has all the makings of a series that I would happily dive into again!
The plot is beautifully woven with touches of folklore, hints of love, and just the right amount of mystery. The pacing keeps everything moving seamlessly, and before you even realize it, you’ve been carried along to the end. What I especially loved were the subtle little easter eggs scattered throughout the story. The clever details that build up to that unforgettable cliffhanger.
This book feels like just the beginning of something bigger, and I truly hope the author continues the story. It has all the makings of a series that I would happily dive into again!
September 9, 2025
Ok I loved this book, I received it as an ARC, and I’m grateful I did. It was more than just a story about Selkies, it was about finding yourself again after a breakup and reconnecting with who you think you are or what you thought you knew, it’s about going home and finding home, even if that home is in a new country. It’s about connections, it’s about an old family curse that our FMC stumbles into when she buys a property and how she ends up being connected even though she isn’t a member of the family. It’s about taking the chance on love again and then weaved throughout is the haunting tale that is tied in to Irish mythology and Selkirk lore. It was masterfully woven together and beautifully written. You could almost smell the salt in the air and hear the waves breaking the shore. I don’t want to give more away, but I could not put this book down.
September 9, 2025
I am a fan of Divia’s voice and What the Sea Knows delivers more of that somber, metaphysical mist-drenched prose that pulls you back into forgotten times. You can’t help but root for Holly from the start. Some underappreciated version of herself had been going through the motions of life without actually living and when she decides to make a change, she makes a big one!
The selkie lore is expertly woven into the story and Michael is a welcome twist. I loved that he was always eating her food lol. He has the history she wants to understand and she has a fresh take on an old curse.
If you haven’t read a Divia story, you should. I think this one may be my favorite so far.
The selkie lore is expertly woven into the story and Michael is a welcome twist. I loved that he was always eating her food lol. He has the history she wants to understand and she has a fresh take on an old curse.
If you haven’t read a Divia story, you should. I think this one may be my favorite so far.
August 23, 2025
She was spooky!!! Loved it! Overall very whimsical mystery vibes. Minimal romance. It’s mostly about the lore of the stories. I loved the imagery of the house. The book itself if beautiful with art for the chapters! I also adored the friends and their supportiveness. As well as the beautiful relationship between the mom and daughter ~ honest arc reader review
August 30, 2025
Mysterious, magical, haunting and beautiful! What the Sea Knows captivated me from the beginning. With quality and relatable characters, it was easy to be invested in their story. The author does a great job bringing the setting to life allowing me to fully immerse myself in the folklore of the Selkies.
While it’s short at 155 pages, the story will stay with me for quite a while.
While it’s short at 155 pages, the story will stay with me for quite a while.
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