What do you think?
The Council of Cyllene #1
Enchantment of Silver and Sea
Survival means…
Keeping your head down.
Doing what you’re told.
Asking no questions.
Following the tragic death of her sister, twenty-year-old Maila Gray lives a solitary existence within the walls of the magic-free city of Cyllene. Her life is quiet. It’s uneventful. And that is exactly how it needs to stay.
But one night, Maila finds herself face-to-face with intruders from outside the city walls – fierce and slightly intimidating Nyathera, and heartbreakingly handsome Kieran. While Cyllene citizens are forbidden to interact with the Strangers who lurk Outside, the threat to Maila’s life leaves her no choice but to meet their demands.
One visit from the Strangers leads to another. And although she’s breaking all the rules, Maila can’t help but be intrigued by these mysterious people who live side-by-side with magic. Every encounter is a risk. But for the first time, Maila has found a risk worth taking. When she reaches the point of no return, she must decide if she’s willing to put everything on the line for the people—and the dangerous half-human man—who have made her feel truly alive.
Keeping your head down.
Doing what you’re told.
Asking no questions.
Following the tragic death of her sister, twenty-year-old Maila Gray lives a solitary existence within the walls of the magic-free city of Cyllene. Her life is quiet. It’s uneventful. And that is exactly how it needs to stay.
But one night, Maila finds herself face-to-face with intruders from outside the city walls – fierce and slightly intimidating Nyathera, and heartbreakingly handsome Kieran. While Cyllene citizens are forbidden to interact with the Strangers who lurk Outside, the threat to Maila’s life leaves her no choice but to meet their demands.
One visit from the Strangers leads to another. And although she’s breaking all the rules, Maila can’t help but be intrigued by these mysterious people who live side-by-side with magic. Every encounter is a risk. But for the first time, Maila has found a risk worth taking. When she reaches the point of no return, she must decide if she’s willing to put everything on the line for the people—and the dangerous half-human man—who have made her feel truly alive.
351 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2025
About the author
Tara Straight
3 books31 followersTara Straight is a Stetson University graduate and lifelong bookworm. If she’s not writing about fantasy worlds with swoon-worthy romances, she’s probably reading about them. Having spent most of her life in central Florida, some of her greatest joys are walking on the beach, visiting Florida’s many springs, frequenting the theme parks, and attending comic and anime conventions. No matter what she may be doing, you can guarantee it is with her husband, daughter, and daughter’s stuffed pink bunny in tow.
Learn more at:
TaraStraight.com
Instagram, TikTok, and Threads @tarastraight
Facebook @tarastraightauthor
Learn more at:
TaraStraight.com
Instagram, TikTok, and Threads @tarastraight
Facebook @tarastraightauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
August 31, 2025
It’s been a while since I dipped my toes into the romantasy genre, and this thrilling, fast-paced debut checked all the boxes I needed it to: thorough worldbuilding, heart-stomping banter, and a beautiful found family!
Enchantment of Silver and Sea’s shining jewel is its protagonist. Maila reminds me of Belle from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast: she’s an awkward albeit gentle bookworm who sometimes struggles to connect with others, but not in an “I’m not like other girls!!1!1!” way. When she puts herself down, it isn’t as a means of fishing for compliments; it’s because she genuinely doesn’t believe in her utility. That’s a tough balance to strike, and it means the moment when she takes charge of her destiny and steps into her power is earned.
Another highlight of this novel is its dialogue. Often, characters in fantasy novels speak as though they were plucked off the Globe Theater’s stage, but that too-flowery, frustratingly perfect Shakespearean dialogue is nowhere to be found in Silver and Sea. The characters just… talk like normal people. They snap at one another, they choke on their words, and they make me *chuckle.* (“If a beautiful woman with a fish tail sings you a song and you swim out to go fuck her, you get what you deserve” induced a snort so loud my boyfriend asked if I was choking.)
The prose, unfortunately, fell flat for me. Aside from a disappointing number of proofing errors, Silver and Sea is consistent with a ton of other debut novels I see in the sense that it doesn’t trust its reader’s intelligence. For instance, “A cool breeze ruffled my hair” is spoon feeding. Why not *show us* that the breeze is cool instead? “I pulled my jacket tighter around me,” “I shivered, regretting that I left my cardigan at home,” “I looked longingly at the coats on passersby,” etc.
Also, I was a bit taken aback by the food metaphors used to describe dark skin tones (and *only* dark skin tones). The literary community has mostly done away with this highly criticized practice. (Hundreds of dissertations explain why better than I ever could.) While Silver and Sea’s white characters are described as being “pale” and “fair,” black and brown characters are described as having “skin the color of coffee,” “walnut-colored skin,” and “skin the color of cinnamon.” It’s othering, and it’s tough to overlook.
However, if those cosmetic details don’t bother you, I recommend you snag a copy of this novel in October. It features mountains of books, roaring bonfires, and cozy snuggle sessions, all of which make it a fitting autumnal read!
—
Thank you to the author for providing me with a free copy in exchange for a candid review!
Enchantment of Silver and Sea’s shining jewel is its protagonist. Maila reminds me of Belle from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast: she’s an awkward albeit gentle bookworm who sometimes struggles to connect with others, but not in an “I’m not like other girls!!1!1!” way. When she puts herself down, it isn’t as a means of fishing for compliments; it’s because she genuinely doesn’t believe in her utility. That’s a tough balance to strike, and it means the moment when she takes charge of her destiny and steps into her power is earned.
Another highlight of this novel is its dialogue. Often, characters in fantasy novels speak as though they were plucked off the Globe Theater’s stage, but that too-flowery, frustratingly perfect Shakespearean dialogue is nowhere to be found in Silver and Sea. The characters just… talk like normal people. They snap at one another, they choke on their words, and they make me *chuckle.* (“If a beautiful woman with a fish tail sings you a song and you swim out to go fuck her, you get what you deserve” induced a snort so loud my boyfriend asked if I was choking.)
The prose, unfortunately, fell flat for me. Aside from a disappointing number of proofing errors, Silver and Sea is consistent with a ton of other debut novels I see in the sense that it doesn’t trust its reader’s intelligence. For instance, “A cool breeze ruffled my hair” is spoon feeding. Why not *show us* that the breeze is cool instead? “I pulled my jacket tighter around me,” “I shivered, regretting that I left my cardigan at home,” “I looked longingly at the coats on passersby,” etc.
Also, I was a bit taken aback by the food metaphors used to describe dark skin tones (and *only* dark skin tones). The literary community has mostly done away with this highly criticized practice. (Hundreds of dissertations explain why better than I ever could.) While Silver and Sea’s white characters are described as being “pale” and “fair,” black and brown characters are described as having “skin the color of coffee,” “walnut-colored skin,” and “skin the color of cinnamon.” It’s othering, and it’s tough to overlook.
However, if those cosmetic details don’t bother you, I recommend you snag a copy of this novel in October. It features mountains of books, roaring bonfires, and cozy snuggle sessions, all of which make it a fitting autumnal read!
—
Thank you to the author for providing me with a free copy in exchange for a candid review!
September 1, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️¼ (4.25/5)
I’m honestly a pretty consistent four-star reader, but this debut absolutely went above that benchmark. What an amazing first novel; it’s brimming with heart and soul.
This story hooked me right away. I’m still thinking about the characters, the world, and all the layers I know are waiting to be revealed. I hated that it ended when it did — not because it wasn’t satisfying, but because I wasn’t ready to leave it behind. I need more backstory. I need more everything.
The characters and storylines are so intriguing. You can just feel the depth behind them. It hit several of my favorite tropes in the best ways:
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Dystopian vibes
✨ Found family
✨ ONE BED (yes, really)
✨ And of course… Touch her and DIE
It definitely leaned a bit more YA than I expected, but not in a bad way — in a totally accessible, enjoyable way. It was the perfect escape after a long day of real-life stress. I honestly felt like I became friends with these so-called “strangers,” and now I’m counting down the days until the next book.
I’m honestly a pretty consistent four-star reader, but this debut absolutely went above that benchmark. What an amazing first novel; it’s brimming with heart and soul.
This story hooked me right away. I’m still thinking about the characters, the world, and all the layers I know are waiting to be revealed. I hated that it ended when it did — not because it wasn’t satisfying, but because I wasn’t ready to leave it behind. I need more backstory. I need more everything.
The characters and storylines are so intriguing. You can just feel the depth behind them. It hit several of my favorite tropes in the best ways:
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Dystopian vibes
✨ Found family
✨ ONE BED (yes, really)
✨ And of course… Touch her and DIE
It definitely leaned a bit more YA than I expected, but not in a bad way — in a totally accessible, enjoyable way. It was the perfect escape after a long day of real-life stress. I honestly felt like I became friends with these so-called “strangers,” and now I’m counting down the days until the next book.
April 6, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 STARS
Tropes:
-quest
-slow burn/yearning
-dystopian
-first person POV
-found family
-magic
-forbidden love
I’m soooooo glad dystopian is back. It’s giving divergent, but with magic. Has someone already said that? Also maybe with a dash of the “UGLIES” series? Anyone else seeing it? 👀
Our FMC, Maila, lives in a magic-free city all alone after the deaths of her sister and parents. In this city, everyone is assigned a job at a young age and is meant to stay within that assigned role. This is how it’s been since after “the awakening” (whatever that means). There is life and magic outside of the wall, but the people within the city are not allowed to leave. She meets 2 strangers from outside the wall who seek her help for information and it sparks a curiosity in her that won’t fizzle out. She’s hell bent on getting answers about her sisters death and finding her own purpose in life again.
This is a medium-paced dystopian romanatasy with a SHMEDIUM burn romance. 🤣 the build up between Kieran and Maila was so fun. I LOVE when the MMC changes just for her. 😍 The main characters are both complex. They feel layered and real with pasts that still require further exploring. They are both imperfectly perfect and relatable.
I’m liking the direction the world building is going and I’m looking forward to how it will be explored in the next book. Also hoping we get more in what “the awakening” was. It ended on quite the cliffhanger and I need answers!!! Why do I feel like the happily ever after is going to be hard-earned. 😭
Anyways, off to read the book 2 ARC. I’m invested. Will report back soon.
Tropes:
-quest
-slow burn/yearning
-dystopian
-first person POV
-found family
-magic
-forbidden love
I’m soooooo glad dystopian is back. It’s giving divergent, but with magic. Has someone already said that? Also maybe with a dash of the “UGLIES” series? Anyone else seeing it? 👀
Our FMC, Maila, lives in a magic-free city all alone after the deaths of her sister and parents. In this city, everyone is assigned a job at a young age and is meant to stay within that assigned role. This is how it’s been since after “the awakening” (whatever that means). There is life and magic outside of the wall, but the people within the city are not allowed to leave. She meets 2 strangers from outside the wall who seek her help for information and it sparks a curiosity in her that won’t fizzle out. She’s hell bent on getting answers about her sisters death and finding her own purpose in life again.
This is a medium-paced dystopian romanatasy with a SHMEDIUM burn romance. 🤣 the build up between Kieran and Maila was so fun. I LOVE when the MMC changes just for her. 😍 The main characters are both complex. They feel layered and real with pasts that still require further exploring. They are both imperfectly perfect and relatable.
I’m liking the direction the world building is going and I’m looking forward to how it will be explored in the next book. Also hoping we get more in what “the awakening” was. It ended on quite the cliffhanger and I need answers!!! Why do I feel like the happily ever after is going to be hard-earned. 😭
Anyways, off to read the book 2 ARC. I’m invested. Will report back soon.
October 12, 2025
4.5 ☆'s
I have been waiting patiently to get to this book for a little while now, and it was certainly worth the wait!
I read this as a buddy read, and we found plenty of exciting talking points after each chapter. I particularly enjoyed the way the reader was drip fed details as the story progressed, rather than having a big info dump. This meant that each chapter revealed more of the mystery of the story, from the details surrounding the FMC family, to who possessed what magic and how it worked It made me excited to read on and hard to put the book down.
One character I've really liked so far is Kieran, and I'm really interested in finding out more about him as the series grows.
I'm definitely team Strangers (and kieran), as the Cyllene Council has some rather questionable ways of living! I was able to really feel the emotions of the characters and loved the found family the strangers have built up.
I'm fully invested in this series and can't wait to see how it will progress in book 2.
Thank you to the author for sending me an e-read ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I have been waiting patiently to get to this book for a little while now, and it was certainly worth the wait!
I read this as a buddy read, and we found plenty of exciting talking points after each chapter. I particularly enjoyed the way the reader was drip fed details as the story progressed, rather than having a big info dump. This meant that each chapter revealed more of the mystery of the story, from the details surrounding the FMC family, to who possessed what magic and how it worked It made me excited to read on and hard to put the book down.
One character I've really liked so far is Kieran, and I'm really interested in finding out more about him as the series grows.
I'm definitely team Strangers (and kieran), as the Cyllene Council has some rather questionable ways of living! I was able to really feel the emotions of the characters and loved the found family the strangers have built up.
I'm fully invested in this series and can't wait to see how it will progress in book 2.
Thank you to the author for sending me an e-read ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 12, 2025
I loved this book! I was locked in within the first two chapters. This was a wonderfully written dystopian fantasy slow burn romance! I love me a slow burn and this was perfect! We have forbidden love, a morally gray MMC, a little spice, found family, magic/magical creatures. I loved the characters so much, especially Maila and Keiran. Really couldn’t put this one down. Thank you so much to Tara Straight for the gifted eARC! I can’t wait for book 2!
September 28, 2025
4.5 🌟
Y’all why did I wait so long to read this type of fantasy?? No judgement, buttttt I never read the Hunger Games or Divergent and I’m seriously mad about that now!
Enchantment of Silver & Sea by @tarastraight
I was given the opportunity to read this as an ARC. It comes out October 17th and you DO NOT want to skip it.
It does give more YA since they are in early 20s but that does NOT take away from this amazing story.
The world building 🤯 again, so mad I waited so long to read a dystopian story! Tara did so incredible with how the world was described. The way bits and pieces were unfolded as the story went on was perfection and it kept you intrigued the whole time.
The characters, their stories, HOW THEY ARE CONNECTED! Did not see any of the last half coming. I did have a feeling of who would betray them, but again, it wasn’t until over half that I figured it out!
I was hooked from the very beginning of this book. There is so much to love about this story and I will be very IMPATIENT waiting on the next one!
Thank you @tarastraight for this advanced copy. I truly enjoyed this story!
Y’all why did I wait so long to read this type of fantasy?? No judgement, buttttt I never read the Hunger Games or Divergent and I’m seriously mad about that now!
Enchantment of Silver & Sea by @tarastraight
I was given the opportunity to read this as an ARC. It comes out October 17th and you DO NOT want to skip it.
It does give more YA since they are in early 20s but that does NOT take away from this amazing story.
The world building 🤯 again, so mad I waited so long to read a dystopian story! Tara did so incredible with how the world was described. The way bits and pieces were unfolded as the story went on was perfection and it kept you intrigued the whole time.
The characters, their stories, HOW THEY ARE CONNECTED! Did not see any of the last half coming. I did have a feeling of who would betray them, but again, it wasn’t until over half that I figured it out!
I was hooked from the very beginning of this book. There is so much to love about this story and I will be very IMPATIENT waiting on the next one!
Thank you @tarastraight for this advanced copy. I truly enjoyed this story!
October 11, 2025
3.75 🌊
I’m grateful that the author trusted me to be part of her ARC team ♡
This debut novel features good world-building, lots of magic, and thrilling twists. The story started off a bit slow, but I was fairly intrigued from the halfway point all the way to the final chapter.
I did take away some stars for a few reasons. I felt that some parts were overexplained—certain chapters felt bulky, with too many unnecessary words. While I appreciated the world-building, I actually wanted more of it; the foundation was there, but it didn’t go deep enough for me. Lastly, I didn’t feel much of a pull between Maila and Kieran, as I think their interactions were too limited to create a strong connection.
Overall, it was a good read, and I’m definitely curious to see what happens next!
I’m grateful that the author trusted me to be part of her ARC team ♡
This debut novel features good world-building, lots of magic, and thrilling twists. The story started off a bit slow, but I was fairly intrigued from the halfway point all the way to the final chapter.
I did take away some stars for a few reasons. I felt that some parts were overexplained—certain chapters felt bulky, with too many unnecessary words. While I appreciated the world-building, I actually wanted more of it; the foundation was there, but it didn’t go deep enough for me. Lastly, I didn’t feel much of a pull between Maila and Kieran, as I think their interactions were too limited to create a strong connection.
Overall, it was a good read, and I’m definitely curious to see what happens next!
September 1, 2025
Enchantment of Silver & Sea by Tara Straight
Releasing October 14th,2025
This is an incredible debut, fantasy!!
- Forbidden Romance
- Magic Systems
- Political Intrigue
- Found Family
- One Bed
- Spice
- Bad Ass FMC
- Morally Grey MMC
The way this book hooked me, making me want to jump inside because, well ... Morally Grey MMC 🤭.
Summary:
In a magic free community, Cyllene, which runs "smoothly" under the guide of the enforcers and unspoken rules. Its residents are safe from the dangers outside its walls and away from people called "strangers" outside. Cyllene uses these walls to both protect and contain their people through use of systems of education and implied purpose. But knowledge from books and people going against the system are being removed from this "happy community"! Until two strangers, Kiran and Nya, sneak into Cyllene and meet Maila Grey (FMC). Though Maila knows interacting with strangers is forbidden, she feels drawn to provide what she believes is safe information to them and in turn she begins to understanding more about herself, Cyllene, her family and what exactly is happening outside the walls which puts not only her, but those around her in danger.
My thoughts:
What a breakout novel! It has exactly what I want in a book, fantasy, romance, secrets, action, politics, magic systems, suspense, banter, and its well written. The way in which the characters play off each other is full of banter & sarcasm as well as being easily distinguished from each other! Loved the tension throughout, there was no insta-love, which I appreciate so much! I liked that Maila went on her own journey of self descovery and growth apart from other characters, many books clump FMC and MMC together and they become one unit, but Maila got a solo and group journey. And best of all is the way found family and strong female bonds are incorporated in, these have to be my favourite tropes of all time!
If you're looking for a dystopian-esct fantasy with emotional depth, slow-burn romance, found-family dynamics, and a heroine grappling with grief and growth, mark your calendars for Oct 14th I am totally grabbing a physical copy of this. I can't wait for book 2!
Releasing October 14th,2025
This is an incredible debut, fantasy!!
- Forbidden Romance
- Magic Systems
- Political Intrigue
- Found Family
- One Bed
- Spice
- Bad Ass FMC
- Morally Grey MMC
The way this book hooked me, making me want to jump inside because, well ... Morally Grey MMC 🤭.
Summary:
In a magic free community, Cyllene, which runs "smoothly" under the guide of the enforcers and unspoken rules. Its residents are safe from the dangers outside its walls and away from people called "strangers" outside. Cyllene uses these walls to both protect and contain their people through use of systems of education and implied purpose. But knowledge from books and people going against the system are being removed from this "happy community"! Until two strangers, Kiran and Nya, sneak into Cyllene and meet Maila Grey (FMC). Though Maila knows interacting with strangers is forbidden, she feels drawn to provide what she believes is safe information to them and in turn she begins to understanding more about herself, Cyllene, her family and what exactly is happening outside the walls which puts not only her, but those around her in danger.
My thoughts:
What a breakout novel! It has exactly what I want in a book, fantasy, romance, secrets, action, politics, magic systems, suspense, banter, and its well written. The way in which the characters play off each other is full of banter & sarcasm as well as being easily distinguished from each other! Loved the tension throughout, there was no insta-love, which I appreciate so much! I liked that Maila went on her own journey of self descovery and growth apart from other characters, many books clump FMC and MMC together and they become one unit, but Maila got a solo and group journey. And best of all is the way found family and strong female bonds are incorporated in, these have to be my favourite tropes of all time!
If you're looking for a dystopian-esct fantasy with emotional depth, slow-burn romance, found-family dynamics, and a heroine grappling with grief and growth, mark your calendars for Oct 14th I am totally grabbing a physical copy of this. I can't wait for book 2!
September 2, 2025
This romantasy gave me all the vibes of magic, mystery, & finding where you truly belong. We follow Maila Gray, 20 years old & living in the magic free, dystopian city of Cyllene. After losing her sister she’s kept to herself in a place where the rules are strict & no one is allowed to have contact with outsiders.
That all changes when she meets Nyathera, fierce & full of secrets, & Kieran, the kind of heartbreakingly captivating stranger that makes you question everything. What starts as dangerous slowly turns into something that brings her back to life in unexpected moments. Along the way she finds a found family that makes her feel seen & supported in ways she’s been missing.
This story is about grief, friendship, risk, & the kind of connection that makes you feel alive again. It’s emotional, magical, & swoony with that perfect mix of romance & fantasy. I already know it’s going to be a must read for romantasy fans!
That all changes when she meets Nyathera, fierce & full of secrets, & Kieran, the kind of heartbreakingly captivating stranger that makes you question everything. What starts as dangerous slowly turns into something that brings her back to life in unexpected moments. Along the way she finds a found family that makes her feel seen & supported in ways she’s been missing.
This story is about grief, friendship, risk, & the kind of connection that makes you feel alive again. It’s emotional, magical, & swoony with that perfect mix of romance & fantasy. I already know it’s going to be a must read for romantasy fans!
September 11, 2025
I got the pleasure of reading this as an arc, and I’m happy I was able to because this book turned out to be one of the good ones!
This book follows a girl deep in her depression of loosing someone she loves, and she having to hid the reason why! This is a girl who loves books and that’s her job just to research how cool, she thinks she knows how this world works but does she. When a pair of strangers show up on her balcony from the outside work her life will change forever
This was a pretty good read I enjoyed the Characters and their growth through out the book! I think what’s special about this book was it felt very unique I don’t think I’ve read anything like it which was refreshing! I enjoyed the writing very easy to follow and this book kept me on my toes. I would suggest this book!
This book follows a girl deep in her depression of loosing someone she loves, and she having to hid the reason why! This is a girl who loves books and that’s her job just to research how cool, she thinks she knows how this world works but does she. When a pair of strangers show up on her balcony from the outside work her life will change forever
This was a pretty good read I enjoyed the Characters and their growth through out the book! I think what’s special about this book was it felt very unique I don’t think I’ve read anything like it which was refreshing! I enjoyed the writing very easy to follow and this book kept me on my toes. I would suggest this book!
October 13, 2025
An excellent debut YA/Adult dystopian romance from Tara Straight! I finished this book in a day. You can tell the author took her time in creating the world in the gates and what lies beyond. Each character and their personalities were easily distinguishable and it made me more interested in knowing their backstory. This says a lot! I would have loved to experience more of the world, and more development in the relationship between the MMC, Kieran. But I loved the FMC, Maila’s strength and conviction. There is magic, forbidden love, found family, and minimal spice. Overall, an enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to the next one!
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy!
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy!
October 9, 2025
First off, thank you so much to Tara Straight for the advanced reader copy and for inviting me to be part of your street team!
I absolutely loved this dystopian story! Maila is an incredible character! She is always questioning, always using her mind, and isn’t afraid of the unknown.
Kieran is full of intrigue and I feel like we have only scratched the surface of his character in the first book.
I can’t wait to read more! Definitely add this one to your reading list. I have no idea how long the series will be, but if the first book is any indication, we are in for a ride!
I absolutely loved this dystopian story! Maila is an incredible character! She is always questioning, always using her mind, and isn’t afraid of the unknown.
Kieran is full of intrigue and I feel like we have only scratched the surface of his character in the first book.
I can’t wait to read more! Definitely add this one to your reading list. I have no idea how long the series will be, but if the first book is any indication, we are in for a ride!
April 20, 2026
This book was different than any other I’ve read; hunger games meets unnamed mysteries as you continue reading. I don’t often read a book in one day, but I genuinely couldn’t put this down.
I met the author, Tara, at The New Romantics in Orlando yesterday and she was very kind. My only regret was not buying the second book in the series from her right then!
I met the author, Tara, at The New Romantics in Orlando yesterday and she was very kind. My only regret was not buying the second book in the series from her right then!
October 14, 2025
Twenty-year-old Maila Gray has lived a quiet, isolated life in the magic-free city of Cyllene, where survival means following the rules and asking no questions. But when she’s confronted by Nyathera and Kieran, mysterious Strangers from beyond the city walls, her world is turned upside down. Though interacting with them is strictly forbidden, Maila is drawn to their danger and the magic they carry. As their encounters grow more frequent and intense, Maila must decide if she’s willing to risk everything—her safety, her past, and her heart—for a future with the people who make her feel truly alive.
For years, my friends have tried to convince me to read fantasy or romantasy, but I always shied away since these genres never really appealed to me. So, when I came across the premise of this book, I knew it was time to give it a shot. And I’m so glad I did.
The storyline kept me turning the pages, and the banter made me laugh a number of times. What I enjoyed most was Maila. Watching her grapple with grief and self-discovery—especially through her evolving interactions with the Strangers—was both compelling and emotional.
I appreciated the character dynamics and the storyline. On occasion, I tended to favor the dialogues over the narrative, and there were instances when I wanted the descriptive text to elaborate on the setting and actions a bit more. These described situations made the prose feel a bit hurried in places, but they didn’t detract from my interest. I enjoyed this debut novel, my first romantasy read, quite a bit and I look forward to the next installment. Brava, Tara Straight.
For years, my friends have tried to convince me to read fantasy or romantasy, but I always shied away since these genres never really appealed to me. So, when I came across the premise of this book, I knew it was time to give it a shot. And I’m so glad I did.
The storyline kept me turning the pages, and the banter made me laugh a number of times. What I enjoyed most was Maila. Watching her grapple with grief and self-discovery—especially through her evolving interactions with the Strangers—was both compelling and emotional.
I appreciated the character dynamics and the storyline. On occasion, I tended to favor the dialogues over the narrative, and there were instances when I wanted the descriptive text to elaborate on the setting and actions a bit more. These described situations made the prose feel a bit hurried in places, but they didn’t detract from my interest. I enjoyed this debut novel, my first romantasy read, quite a bit and I look forward to the next installment. Brava, Tara Straight.
November 26, 2025
It's not everyday one summons a water spirit in the commode, but it is in the book!
The world people live in has 2 sides, one within the city and one outside. Maila is a too curious girl who is somehow special to the outsiders, too bad she trips and falls in love.
She is forced to choose, all she's known or the unknown? How to know who is friends or foe?
This was such a fun read, and I'm waiting for the next installment.
The world people live in has 2 sides, one within the city and one outside. Maila is a too curious girl who is somehow special to the outsiders, too bad she trips and falls in love.
She is forced to choose, all she's known or the unknown? How to know who is friends or foe?
This was such a fun read, and I'm waiting for the next installment.
May 22, 2026
This book surprised me. I was not a fan when I started it, but I decided I would not DNF it and keep going, and I ended up enjoying it. I plan to read book 2. It was a god vibes read.
I got this book on a recent Stuff Your Kindle Day and went into it blind. I listed to it via Kindle/Speechify while I did chores and crocheted. I didn't notice it was labeled as a dystopian romantasy until I'd started it. Post-apocalyptic and dystopian fiction has been my favorite genre my whole life, especially realistic ones, so I can be a bit critical when I go into a new one. I wasn't sure how the mix would work out.
**************************spoilers*******************
In terms of dystopian elements, it was pretty cookie-cutter. A society that wants to control who has knowledge and aspects of daily life, but still appear to be pleasant. Pretty standard. Nothing stood out to me as unique for the first chunk. However, once the fantasy elements mixed in, I enjoyed the story significantly more - which surprised me. I think it made the story more "its own" than just a duplicate of common dystopian elements.
Elements that I really enjoyed were the pace of the book after she went Outside. It had a good mix of action and parts that were relaxed. Sometimes the action surprised me, coming from nowhere, but in a good way. I did not expect them to get arrested immediately after the spice. I liked the surprised, it felt well structured. I also liked the descriptions of the battles. All felt like a good length, good amount of detail, nothing too overloaded. I enjoyed the creatures and the magic system. All of this unfolded really well in the story.
The characters took some time to grow on me, possibly because it read a bit YA despite the spice. The first large chunk of the book the characters felt kind of flat and predictable. Their insta-love/attraction came off a bit cheesy in a YA-way, although I think many people would enjoy that. I think the dialogue played a large part in feeling YA. I found a lot of what they said really unrealistic. I think hearing it on audio made it stand out more; there were many times folks gave too much info or summaries of things at odd times, or general wording that just didn't feel like something that anyone would say. Dialogue is a big make or breaks for books, in my opinion. Because I began to enjoy the story and the characters started to not seems so flat, I gave it a pass - normally that kind of dialogue causes me to DNF.
I like the way the book ended. There was a battle, they did well, but they didn't win. Winning would have been too easy. A huge loss would have been too convenient. I like that it was kind of a weird mixed "well you did ok, but not good enough, retreat" moment. It felt realistic within the world and real life; many battles don't have clear-cut winners and folks end up retreating simply due to a lack of soldiers or supplies despite gaining ground.
I have downloaded book 2. I didn't know book 3 wasn't out when I started this, so hopefully book 2 doesn't end on a cliff hanger.
I got this book on a recent Stuff Your Kindle Day and went into it blind. I listed to it via Kindle/Speechify while I did chores and crocheted. I didn't notice it was labeled as a dystopian romantasy until I'd started it. Post-apocalyptic and dystopian fiction has been my favorite genre my whole life, especially realistic ones, so I can be a bit critical when I go into a new one. I wasn't sure how the mix would work out.
**************************spoilers*******************
In terms of dystopian elements, it was pretty cookie-cutter. A society that wants to control who has knowledge and aspects of daily life, but still appear to be pleasant. Pretty standard. Nothing stood out to me as unique for the first chunk. However, once the fantasy elements mixed in, I enjoyed the story significantly more - which surprised me. I think it made the story more "its own" than just a duplicate of common dystopian elements.
Elements that I really enjoyed were the pace of the book after she went Outside. It had a good mix of action and parts that were relaxed. Sometimes the action surprised me, coming from nowhere, but in a good way. I did not expect them to get arrested immediately after the spice. I liked the surprised, it felt well structured. I also liked the descriptions of the battles. All felt like a good length, good amount of detail, nothing too overloaded. I enjoyed the creatures and the magic system. All of this unfolded really well in the story.
The characters took some time to grow on me, possibly because it read a bit YA despite the spice. The first large chunk of the book the characters felt kind of flat and predictable. Their insta-love/attraction came off a bit cheesy in a YA-way, although I think many people would enjoy that. I think the dialogue played a large part in feeling YA. I found a lot of what they said really unrealistic. I think hearing it on audio made it stand out more; there were many times folks gave too much info or summaries of things at odd times, or general wording that just didn't feel like something that anyone would say. Dialogue is a big make or breaks for books, in my opinion. Because I began to enjoy the story and the characters started to not seems so flat, I gave it a pass - normally that kind of dialogue causes me to DNF.
I like the way the book ended. There was a battle, they did well, but they didn't win. Winning would have been too easy. A huge loss would have been too convenient. I like that it was kind of a weird mixed "well you did ok, but not good enough, retreat" moment. It felt realistic within the world and real life; many battles don't have clear-cut winners and folks end up retreating simply due to a lack of soldiers or supplies despite gaining ground.
I have downloaded book 2. I didn't know book 3 wasn't out when I started this, so hopefully book 2 doesn't end on a cliff hanger.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2025
⭐️ 4.25
This dystopian world is full of magic, mystery, betrayal and a journey to find where you belong. The world building was intriguing, the history of how the Awakening has changed the course of the world and its people was engaging. There’s lots to unravel and the twist and turns kept me engaged throughout the story.
I enjoyed the found family, flirty banter , slow burn tension and the relationships between these characters.
FMC: Malia Gray has endured an extensive amount of loss. It’s no wonder she struggles with the things that she does. However I felt at times her naivety, was partly of her own making and that frustrated me. She almost preferred to keep her head down and not ask questions right in front of her at times. I did admire her empathy, desire to do what was right and determination to try despite her disadvantages. She grew on me especially towards the end.
MMC: Kieran is your morally gray man who falls hard for his woman and will quite literally destroy the world for her. We still don’t know so much about him, his origins or what he truly is but I cannot wait to find out more!
I also really enjoyed the side characters. I love the relationship Nya has with Kieran. Teasing and tormenting each other like siblings, but having each other’s backs 100%. Then how her relationship with Maila develops and they grow to cherish one another. The camaraderie between all the Strangers in the wilds and the sense of a found family.
I look forward to seeing how Maila’s relationships with Laimar and Sigrid grow in the future and hopefully we learn more about her family’s history with them. I also hope we finally get to meet the elusive Oryxians and Kieran’s less than ideal remaining family .
Thank you to the author for the eARC ! I hope to be part of the arc team for the next book as well !
Tropes:
- Slow burn
- One bed
- Forced proximity
- Magic
- Dystopian society
- Betrayal
- Found family
Favorite Quotes:
- I adored enchantresses, mostly because some research I had done on them a few years back had led me to this eloquently written line from an Enforcer's field journal: "Holy fuck these people look like people, but I don't think they ARE people."
- And if a beautiful woman with a fish tail sings you a song, and you swim out to try and fuck her, you get what you deserve. Sound good to everyone?"
- I remember I said to Kieran, 'You may think you're hot shit here at camp, but let me tell you-if Maila is anything like her sister, you're in for it."" He was laughing now, a deep rumbling in his chest. "I said to him, 'You just wait. You're gonna be trailing after that girl like a sick pup."
- “By the way, i’m the one who made all those maps. If there's anything you remember about me when you leave here, besides all that I just told you, I want it to be my incredible artistic ability."
This dystopian world is full of magic, mystery, betrayal and a journey to find where you belong. The world building was intriguing, the history of how the Awakening has changed the course of the world and its people was engaging. There’s lots to unravel and the twist and turns kept me engaged throughout the story.
I enjoyed the found family, flirty banter , slow burn tension and the relationships between these characters.
FMC: Malia Gray has endured an extensive amount of loss. It’s no wonder she struggles with the things that she does. However I felt at times her naivety, was partly of her own making and that frustrated me. She almost preferred to keep her head down and not ask questions right in front of her at times. I did admire her empathy, desire to do what was right and determination to try despite her disadvantages. She grew on me especially towards the end.
MMC: Kieran is your morally gray man who falls hard for his woman and will quite literally destroy the world for her. We still don’t know so much about him, his origins or what he truly is but I cannot wait to find out more!
I also really enjoyed the side characters. I love the relationship Nya has with Kieran. Teasing and tormenting each other like siblings, but having each other’s backs 100%. Then how her relationship with Maila develops and they grow to cherish one another. The camaraderie between all the Strangers in the wilds and the sense of a found family.
I look forward to seeing how Maila’s relationships with Laimar and Sigrid grow in the future and hopefully we learn more about her family’s history with them. I also hope we finally get to meet the elusive Oryxians and Kieran’s less than ideal remaining family .
Thank you to the author for the eARC ! I hope to be part of the arc team for the next book as well !
Tropes:
- Slow burn
- One bed
- Forced proximity
- Magic
- Dystopian society
- Betrayal
- Found family
Favorite Quotes:
- I adored enchantresses, mostly because some research I had done on them a few years back had led me to this eloquently written line from an Enforcer's field journal: "Holy fuck these people look like people, but I don't think they ARE people."
- And if a beautiful woman with a fish tail sings you a song, and you swim out to try and fuck her, you get what you deserve. Sound good to everyone?"
- I remember I said to Kieran, 'You may think you're hot shit here at camp, but let me tell you-if Maila is anything like her sister, you're in for it."" He was laughing now, a deep rumbling in his chest. "I said to him, 'You just wait. You're gonna be trailing after that girl like a sick pup."
- “By the way, i’m the one who made all those maps. If there's anything you remember about me when you leave here, besides all that I just told you, I want it to be my incredible artistic ability."
August 17, 2025
**I received an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I want to begin by saying thank you to the author and their team for trusting me with your book baby before it got released to the world!
But I’ve got BEEF with this book! And the beef is that this book finished when I wanted more!
This book gave me the nostalgia of being a teenager and reading the dystopian books before they became big movies. The story follows a woman living inside an enclosed city that was created when magic came to the land and with it, other worldly beings. I loved this FMC because we got to see character development that was consistent, but also very relatable. The other characters were written so well too that it wasn’t hard to remember who was who and there were moments where I wished I was in the book just so that I could hang out around the bonfire with these characters.
The only thing that I wish had been changed is the amount of times things were “ironic”. I noticed it twice and then every time after that it almost became a game of how many times I could see the words, “irony” or “ironic” used. It would remove me from the story just a hair everytime I saw it, but it was easy to jump back in afterwards.
I think the reason that this book worked so well was because it honestly felt like I was reading a movie script or a script from a CW show. The plot was consistent and there wasn’t any parts that I felt were forced in or threw off the plot, and the last 15% of the book was insane! You found out such story altering things that I honestly didn’t see coming. I still very much want to know how everyone knew who Kieran was, what happened to Cato, and what the heck is the gang going to do from here?!
For those wondering, there is some spice to the book, but it is only really one scene and it adds to the plot. If you are someone that wants spice in books as something that builds towards the story, this book is for you. I would give it 2/5 🌶️ when it comes to spice.
I am so honored that I was able to read this book as an ARC, but I am also bummed about it because that means I have to wait even longer until another book comes out! This author will for sure be an automatic read for me and anything that she makes in the future!
I want to begin by saying thank you to the author and their team for trusting me with your book baby before it got released to the world!
But I’ve got BEEF with this book! And the beef is that this book finished when I wanted more!
This book gave me the nostalgia of being a teenager and reading the dystopian books before they became big movies. The story follows a woman living inside an enclosed city that was created when magic came to the land and with it, other worldly beings. I loved this FMC because we got to see character development that was consistent, but also very relatable. The other characters were written so well too that it wasn’t hard to remember who was who and there were moments where I wished I was in the book just so that I could hang out around the bonfire with these characters.
The only thing that I wish had been changed is the amount of times things were “ironic”. I noticed it twice and then every time after that it almost became a game of how many times I could see the words, “irony” or “ironic” used. It would remove me from the story just a hair everytime I saw it, but it was easy to jump back in afterwards.
I think the reason that this book worked so well was because it honestly felt like I was reading a movie script or a script from a CW show. The plot was consistent and there wasn’t any parts that I felt were forced in or threw off the plot, and the last 15% of the book was insane! You found out such story altering things that I honestly didn’t see coming. I still very much want to know how everyone knew who Kieran was, what happened to Cato, and what the heck is the gang going to do from here?!
For those wondering, there is some spice to the book, but it is only really one scene and it adds to the plot. If you are someone that wants spice in books as something that builds towards the story, this book is for you. I would give it 2/5 🌶️ when it comes to spice.
I am so honored that I was able to read this book as an ARC, but I am also bummed about it because that means I have to wait even longer until another book comes out! This author will for sure be an automatic read for me and anything that she makes in the future!
December 31, 2025
“The only thing better than a day spent reading was a day spent reading about magic.”
👧🏼 Single POV
✨ Unknown Magic
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Found Family
🛌 Single Bed
🔥 Slow Burn
This book is for fans of urban dystopian fantasy that toes the line of YA and NA, while also taking elements of Divergent and Howls Moving Castle and mashing them into something new and exciting. Tara’s debut novel introduces a beautiful written world, Cyllene, alongside a cast of incredible characters like our FMC Maila, dashing and mysterious MMC Kieran, independent and standoff Nya, member of the Enforcer crew Zander, and lovable Brielle.
I was drawn into this story immediately! I felt myself becoming immersed into the world that Tara created from page one and wanted to discover everything that was given to us, the readers. It was this desire to want to know more that I felt made reaching the ending a-little “lackluster” for me though. While the dialogue and overall story was intriguing and riveting, the underdeveloped world building and character relations were not what I was hoping for. There were moments throughout where I felt like as a reader, I should be up to pace on knowledge as Maila was. We are informed that Maila has been working in the library for a decade and has a drive to learn everything that is available to her, but during pivotal times we are left wondering what exactly is happening and Maila doesn’t seem bothered by not knowing. I feel that if Maila were to address some of this in internal dialogue or even in conversation with the Strangers, we wouldn’t be left feeling as though Maila knows nothing.
I do want to highlight how strong the dialogue and banter is in this book and that I found myself audibly laughing out loud at the humor sprinkled throughout. This emphasis on the conversations and communication that occurs between the characters is what really pulled me into the book. It didn’t feel forced or unnatural for a dystopian/fantasy world.
While I was slightly disappointed by the lack of world building and exploration on characters, I will say that for a debut novel with a focus on being an introduction into a brand new series, I cannot wait to read the next one and explore more of the world of Cyllene and the adventures of Maila.
👧🏼 Single POV
✨ Unknown Magic
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Found Family
🛌 Single Bed
🔥 Slow Burn
This book is for fans of urban dystopian fantasy that toes the line of YA and NA, while also taking elements of Divergent and Howls Moving Castle and mashing them into something new and exciting. Tara’s debut novel introduces a beautiful written world, Cyllene, alongside a cast of incredible characters like our FMC Maila, dashing and mysterious MMC Kieran, independent and standoff Nya, member of the Enforcer crew Zander, and lovable Brielle.
I was drawn into this story immediately! I felt myself becoming immersed into the world that Tara created from page one and wanted to discover everything that was given to us, the readers. It was this desire to want to know more that I felt made reaching the ending a-little “lackluster” for me though. While the dialogue and overall story was intriguing and riveting, the underdeveloped world building and character relations were not what I was hoping for. There were moments throughout where I felt like as a reader, I should be up to pace on knowledge as Maila was. We are informed that Maila has been working in the library for a decade and has a drive to learn everything that is available to her, but during pivotal times we are left wondering what exactly is happening and Maila doesn’t seem bothered by not knowing. I feel that if Maila were to address some of this in internal dialogue or even in conversation with the Strangers, we wouldn’t be left feeling as though Maila knows nothing.
I do want to highlight how strong the dialogue and banter is in this book and that I found myself audibly laughing out loud at the humor sprinkled throughout. This emphasis on the conversations and communication that occurs between the characters is what really pulled me into the book. It didn’t feel forced or unnatural for a dystopian/fantasy world.
While I was slightly disappointed by the lack of world building and exploration on characters, I will say that for a debut novel with a focus on being an introduction into a brand new series, I cannot wait to read the next one and explore more of the world of Cyllene and the adventures of Maila.
May 18, 2026
This book felt like the perfect marriage of dystopian and fantasy. There was just enough world building I was able to see it in my minds eye but not so much we described every minute element.
Often when reading I find myself asking the question, is this book character driven or plot driven and the answer is very important to how I find myself enjoying the book. There was a very happy medium here. It is a romance, but I felt that Straight did her book justice with the other plot line elements interwoven within. Political intrigue, classism, and magic structure aid to the roundness of this story.
While the protagonist is naive and “doe eyed” at the beginning her development and growth moves quickly and with a lot of support on the part of the reader. I never found myself asking “when is she just going to GET WITH IT already?!” She learned as she experienced new things, adapted to her environments and changing perspectives, and made plot and path altering choices with the knowledge she had at the time, which is all any of us can do.
The tonality of this book felt appropriate for the genre. It is dystopian. There’s going to be both cuss words and it is going to read like someone is speaking to you, as we spend the novel in the perspective and headspace of the protagonist.
If you are a fan of Rebecca Yarros, I firmly believe you will enjoy this book. I am excited to read the sequel Tides of Gold and Oblivion.
**It would be unfair for me to not disclose my bias. You can peep my good reads, I am an avid reader. Friend or not. I only honestly review books. If this had been a lower rating I would have rated it and kept my review to myself.
With that being said, I am friends with the author. I read this book after it was published. I ran into Tara at a local bookstore in December of 2025 after almost 10 years since we last saw each other or spoke and was beyond floored that my friend from school had written a book, published that book, and was in front of me signing that book (Which I purchased. This is not a paid or gifted review).
It is a honor to be her friend as she is one of the kindest people you could ever know & it was a delight to be able to read this beautiful story.
Often when reading I find myself asking the question, is this book character driven or plot driven and the answer is very important to how I find myself enjoying the book. There was a very happy medium here. It is a romance, but I felt that Straight did her book justice with the other plot line elements interwoven within. Political intrigue, classism, and magic structure aid to the roundness of this story.
While the protagonist is naive and “doe eyed” at the beginning her development and growth moves quickly and with a lot of support on the part of the reader. I never found myself asking “when is she just going to GET WITH IT already?!” She learned as she experienced new things, adapted to her environments and changing perspectives, and made plot and path altering choices with the knowledge she had at the time, which is all any of us can do.
The tonality of this book felt appropriate for the genre. It is dystopian. There’s going to be both cuss words and it is going to read like someone is speaking to you, as we spend the novel in the perspective and headspace of the protagonist.
If you are a fan of Rebecca Yarros, I firmly believe you will enjoy this book. I am excited to read the sequel Tides of Gold and Oblivion.
**It would be unfair for me to not disclose my bias. You can peep my good reads, I am an avid reader. Friend or not. I only honestly review books. If this had been a lower rating I would have rated it and kept my review to myself.
With that being said, I am friends with the author. I read this book after it was published. I ran into Tara at a local bookstore in December of 2025 after almost 10 years since we last saw each other or spoke and was beyond floored that my friend from school had written a book, published that book, and was in front of me signing that book (Which I purchased. This is not a paid or gifted review).
It is a honor to be her friend as she is one of the kindest people you could ever know & it was a delight to be able to read this beautiful story.
September 20, 2025
Enchantment of Silver and Sea by Tara Straight
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
✨ A great debut dystopian fantasy!! ✨
I truly enjoyed this book! Forbidden magic, forbidden love, found family, and just the perfect amount of spice.
I loved our FMC Maila! Her journey through the trauma and grief of losing her family and learning to live on her own was beautiful.
And Keiran… our man! With his hypnotic silver eyes, a dark and jaded past, and that swoony mouth…he’s tender and hard, protective and broken, everything that makes you want more of him.
The world-building was fantastic. You really felt pulled into a society where “Big Brother” is always watching, convincing everyone that life inside the walls, away from magic, is the only safe way to live.
Secrets, lies, betrayals, a unique magic system just starting to unfold, and side characters who leave you full of theories… this book has it all.
And that ending? I did not see it coming. It left me staring into space, blinking, with one thought in my mind: when is book 2 coming out?!
Thank you Tara for the eARC!!
Blurb:
Following the tragic death of her sister, twenty-year-old Maila Gray lives a solitary existence within the walls of the magic-free city of Cyllene. Her life is quiet. It’s uneventful. And that is exactly how it needs to stay.
But one night, Maila finds herself face-to-face with intruders from outside the city walls—fierce and slightly intimidating Nyathera, and heartbreakingly handsome Kieran. While Cyllene citizens are forbidden to interact with the Strangers who lurk Outside, the threat to Maila’s life leaves her no choice but to meet their demands.
One visit from the Strangers leads to another. And although she’s breaking all the rules, Maila can’t help but be intrigued by these mysterious people who live side-by-side with magic. Every encounter is a risk. But for the first time, Maila has found a risk worth taking.
When she reaches the point of no return, she must decide if she’s willing to put everything on the line for the people—and the dangerous half-human man—who have made her feel truly alive.
Thank you Tara for the eARC!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
✨ A great debut dystopian fantasy!! ✨
I truly enjoyed this book! Forbidden magic, forbidden love, found family, and just the perfect amount of spice.
I loved our FMC Maila! Her journey through the trauma and grief of losing her family and learning to live on her own was beautiful.
And Keiran… our man! With his hypnotic silver eyes, a dark and jaded past, and that swoony mouth…he’s tender and hard, protective and broken, everything that makes you want more of him.
The world-building was fantastic. You really felt pulled into a society where “Big Brother” is always watching, convincing everyone that life inside the walls, away from magic, is the only safe way to live.
Secrets, lies, betrayals, a unique magic system just starting to unfold, and side characters who leave you full of theories… this book has it all.
And that ending? I did not see it coming. It left me staring into space, blinking, with one thought in my mind: when is book 2 coming out?!
Thank you Tara for the eARC!!
Blurb:
Following the tragic death of her sister, twenty-year-old Maila Gray lives a solitary existence within the walls of the magic-free city of Cyllene. Her life is quiet. It’s uneventful. And that is exactly how it needs to stay.
But one night, Maila finds herself face-to-face with intruders from outside the city walls—fierce and slightly intimidating Nyathera, and heartbreakingly handsome Kieran. While Cyllene citizens are forbidden to interact with the Strangers who lurk Outside, the threat to Maila’s life leaves her no choice but to meet their demands.
One visit from the Strangers leads to another. And although she’s breaking all the rules, Maila can’t help but be intrigued by these mysterious people who live side-by-side with magic. Every encounter is a risk. But for the first time, Maila has found a risk worth taking.
When she reaches the point of no return, she must decide if she’s willing to put everything on the line for the people—and the dangerous half-human man—who have made her feel truly alive.
Thank you Tara for the eARC!!!
October 13, 2025
3.75 stars rounded up to 4! I had no clue what I was getting into when I read this book. I think I totally blanked on the book summary, so I was shocked when I realized this was a dystopian romance set in a future with magical elements. This is a debut novel, so there was some clunkiness, but I found the originality of the story to be refreshing. There were hints of other popular dystopian worlds, but I felt like I was reading something new. Maila is basically a young researcher living in a walled city as an orphan. Her world has recovered from a massive worldwide event called "The Awakening," which has led to governments making poor decisions. (Am I surprised?...) She was a dutiful young woman until two people showed up who revealed to her what else is out there. The magic system in this book is not clear, and we are left hanging on a lot of things in this first book, but I am excited to see where this goes. One of those people from outside the walls is Kieran, our MMC, who has silver eyes and is very mysterious. The whole story is set through the POV of Maila, who is both super smart and still ignorant of things. She is a book girlie with big romantic thoughts, and the city-state she lives in forces her to remain meek and mild, even though she should burn it all down. The romance felt like it moved rather quickly, which I don't mind, but I wanted more conversations between them fleshed out. Maila has a friend she has talked to for years that she can't connect with (maybe for a reason), but Kieran is trusted immediately (again, maybe for a reason). The story has forbidden romance, all kinds of magical creatures, magical tattoos, baked goods, a mysterious ocean, a library, and a girl who pees and vomits on herself. (I don't know why I enjoy that in a book... don't come for me)
This was a great first book by a new author, and I love the originality of it and can't wait for her next! I received this book as an ARC after I begged the author. (This is a trend of mine)
This was a great first book by a new author, and I love the originality of it and can't wait for her next! I received this book as an ARC after I begged the author. (This is a trend of mine)
September 10, 2025
Enchantment of Silver and Sea — a debut romantasy novel
What’s in store:
- Enemies to lovers (sort of)
- Found Family
- One bed (literally)
- Touch her and 💀 (also very literally)
- Political
- Unique Magic System
- Morally Grey MMC
Thoughts:
This romantasy debut was exactly what I needed! Was here for the romance but stayed for the plot.
Our FMC is a 20 year old with dormant powers who then comes to find out about her and her family’s magic. What I found refreshing about this FMC was that she wasn’t a a spoiled bratty insufferable character like you’d find in a typical Romantasy book. Was she a little naive in the beginning, I think so but that came with her family sheltering her from the politics (you’ll understand)
Now to our MMC, Kieran. He definitely gave some Ridoc vibes with his unapologetic humor. I think he’s made top 10 book boyfriends for me and that’s saying a lot since I’m picky lol
The romance was there and I’m so glad that it didn’t overpower the plot! I loved and breathed the sigh of relief when the FMC and the MMC finally got together. I do wished there was more tension but the between the two but I think the found family very much made up for it.
Nya my girl, the badass friend. I love her! I wish there was a bit more screen time!
Now the ending, probably why I didn’t give it 5 stars because it felt anticlimactic? Like yes it was an “HEA” but it felt flat in sort of setting up the second book.
Do I recommend this book? Yes
Am I picking up the second book? Also yes because I loved Kieran’s humor and I’m curious to see how the second book goes. But i would have been also satisfied if it was a standalone.
Thank you again to Tara’s team for allowing me to be part of her ARC team. I very much enjoyed this book from the very beginning to the end!
What’s in store:
- Enemies to lovers (sort of)
- Found Family
- One bed (literally)
- Touch her and 💀 (also very literally)
- Political
- Unique Magic System
- Morally Grey MMC
Thoughts:
This romantasy debut was exactly what I needed! Was here for the romance but stayed for the plot.
Our FMC is a 20 year old with dormant powers who then comes to find out about her and her family’s magic. What I found refreshing about this FMC was that she wasn’t a a spoiled bratty insufferable character like you’d find in a typical Romantasy book. Was she a little naive in the beginning, I think so but that came with her family sheltering her from the politics (you’ll understand)
Now to our MMC, Kieran. He definitely gave some Ridoc vibes with his unapologetic humor. I think he’s made top 10 book boyfriends for me and that’s saying a lot since I’m picky lol
The romance was there and I’m so glad that it didn’t overpower the plot! I loved and breathed the sigh of relief when the FMC and the MMC finally got together. I do wished there was more tension but the between the two but I think the found family very much made up for it.
Nya my girl, the badass friend. I love her! I wish there was a bit more screen time!
Now the ending, probably why I didn’t give it 5 stars because it felt anticlimactic? Like yes it was an “HEA” but it felt flat in sort of setting up the second book.
Do I recommend this book? Yes
Am I picking up the second book? Also yes because I loved Kieran’s humor and I’m curious to see how the second book goes. But i would have been also satisfied if it was a standalone.
Thank you again to Tara’s team for allowing me to be part of her ARC team. I very much enjoyed this book from the very beginning to the end!
September 27, 2025
Enchantment of Silver and Sea is a debut romantasy book from author Tara Straight. It is the first book in a new series and takes place in the community of Cyllene, an idyllic community where everyone has their assigned work duties and must follow strict rules set up by the Council. Inside the walls of her community, everyone is safe and cared for. Outside the walls however, magic is wild and magical creatures are constantly endangering the safety of anyone who ventures past the boundaries of Cyllene. Maila is our main character and spends her days doing research in the library. She has a tight group of friends including her best friend, Brielle, who works in the culinary department and Zander, an Enforcer, who has an obvious crush on Maila.
Early in the book, Maila is visited by 2 “Strangers” from outside the walls of Cyllene. These 2 newcomers, Kieran and Nya, are looking for Maila’s help in navigating the magical world outside the walls. As Maila begins to research and aid Kieran and Nya, she begins to care about them and their community of Strangers. When Maila insists on following them outside the safety of Cyllene’s walls, she starts to see that maybe what she has been told is not the whole truth of the world in which she lives.
Enchantment of Silver and Sea is quick-paced and sweet fantasy story with likeable characters. There is a bit of spice and a budding romance that I look forward to seeing the author develop in the continuation of the series. I would like to have seen some deeper character development and a more fleshed out romance arc, but overall, I enjoyed this book a lot. The world is intriguing and I look forward to continuing in this world that Tara Straight created.
Thanks to the author for the ARC and I truly wish to see more from this author in the future.
Early in the book, Maila is visited by 2 “Strangers” from outside the walls of Cyllene. These 2 newcomers, Kieran and Nya, are looking for Maila’s help in navigating the magical world outside the walls. As Maila begins to research and aid Kieran and Nya, she begins to care about them and their community of Strangers. When Maila insists on following them outside the safety of Cyllene’s walls, she starts to see that maybe what she has been told is not the whole truth of the world in which she lives.
Enchantment of Silver and Sea is quick-paced and sweet fantasy story with likeable characters. There is a bit of spice and a budding romance that I look forward to seeing the author develop in the continuation of the series. I would like to have seen some deeper character development and a more fleshed out romance arc, but overall, I enjoyed this book a lot. The world is intriguing and I look forward to continuing in this world that Tara Straight created.
Thanks to the author for the ARC and I truly wish to see more from this author in the future.
September 5, 2025
Synopsis:
Maila Gray, a 20-year-old woman living in a post-Awakening world content to move along day-to-day with her friends, Brielle and Zander, in a life strategically laid out for them. Flashes of panic and nightmares are the only things that stand out from the do-as-you’re-told and you will be fine pace.
Don’t ask questions.
Keep your head down.
Do your work.
Her work assignment and Maila‘s happy place is the Knowledge Center Library where she can learn about everything. Love, adventure, and even magic from the safety of Cyllene under the watchful eyes of the secret council. That is until one night Strangers from outside the walls come to threaten her, and all she has ever known, unknowingly lighting a spark in Maila. She fears for the safety of those outside the walls of Cyllene and longs to know what life out there is really like. Where magic and creatures that she has only ever read about thrive and people are forced to keep up.
My Thoughts:
My curiosity was sparked from page one. The ease with which the story flows is compelling and had my mind wondering and wandering in much the same way that Maila’s does. Wondering how the world became this way. Wondering about the magic and why these humans are so against it. And especially wondering about the otherworldly creatures. I enjoyed the first-person perspective and being fully immersed into the rambling/spiraling thoughts of someone else for a change. And with characters that are easy to relate to and become attached to, I was left wanting more.
If you enjoy an enriching, mysterious, and magical world like I do, I would absolutely recommend it. I will be looking forward to learning more about these Strangers and the world both within and beyond the wall.
Maila Gray, a 20-year-old woman living in a post-Awakening world content to move along day-to-day with her friends, Brielle and Zander, in a life strategically laid out for them. Flashes of panic and nightmares are the only things that stand out from the do-as-you’re-told and you will be fine pace.
Don’t ask questions.
Keep your head down.
Do your work.
Her work assignment and Maila‘s happy place is the Knowledge Center Library where she can learn about everything. Love, adventure, and even magic from the safety of Cyllene under the watchful eyes of the secret council. That is until one night Strangers from outside the walls come to threaten her, and all she has ever known, unknowingly lighting a spark in Maila. She fears for the safety of those outside the walls of Cyllene and longs to know what life out there is really like. Where magic and creatures that she has only ever read about thrive and people are forced to keep up.
My Thoughts:
My curiosity was sparked from page one. The ease with which the story flows is compelling and had my mind wondering and wandering in much the same way that Maila’s does. Wondering how the world became this way. Wondering about the magic and why these humans are so against it. And especially wondering about the otherworldly creatures. I enjoyed the first-person perspective and being fully immersed into the rambling/spiraling thoughts of someone else for a change. And with characters that are easy to relate to and become attached to, I was left wanting more.
If you enjoy an enriching, mysterious, and magical world like I do, I would absolutely recommend it. I will be looking forward to learning more about these Strangers and the world both within and beyond the wall.
October 3, 2025
Thank you, Tara, for the ARC of Enchantment of Silver and Sea! (Available October 14, 2025!)
I want to start off by saying that the writing and world building is absolutely phenomenal! There was enough information given to understand the world, but not so much that it was overwhelming, and it kept you in suspense.
Maila is a girl after my own heart. She loves reading and learning new information, but lives in a time and place that the information (and access to it) is limited. She lives her daily life working and repeating the same routine, while trying to cope with some major trauma that she’s been through.
In comes Kieran and Nya, two Strangers from outside of Cyllene, the city Maila lives in, who need her help and knowledge to aid their quests. Maila is then thrust into a completely new world as she learns more about these people and their community. But what happens when she finds herself more involved than she probably should be? I guess you’ll just have to read it and find out 😉
I love the found family Maila creates with Kieran and Nya (among others). She finds a place where she belongs at last and will go to great lengths to protect the people she cares about. The magic in this world is really interesting, and I hope we get to learn more about it in the next book! I also really can’t wait to find out more about Kieran, who just joined my overall top MMCs! I just love this trio so much!! And that battle scene at the end is probably one of my all time favorites! The pacing is great and it’s just so INTENSE 😅
I want to start off by saying that the writing and world building is absolutely phenomenal! There was enough information given to understand the world, but not so much that it was overwhelming, and it kept you in suspense.
Maila is a girl after my own heart. She loves reading and learning new information, but lives in a time and place that the information (and access to it) is limited. She lives her daily life working and repeating the same routine, while trying to cope with some major trauma that she’s been through.
In comes Kieran and Nya, two Strangers from outside of Cyllene, the city Maila lives in, who need her help and knowledge to aid their quests. Maila is then thrust into a completely new world as she learns more about these people and their community. But what happens when she finds herself more involved than she probably should be? I guess you’ll just have to read it and find out 😉
I love the found family Maila creates with Kieran and Nya (among others). She finds a place where she belongs at last and will go to great lengths to protect the people she cares about. The magic in this world is really interesting, and I hope we get to learn more about it in the next book! I also really can’t wait to find out more about Kieran, who just joined my overall top MMCs! I just love this trio so much!! And that battle scene at the end is probably one of my all time favorites! The pacing is great and it’s just so INTENSE 😅
October 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
📖 Enchantment of Silver and Sea
✍️ Tara Straight
📱 E-ARC
Enchantment of Silver and Sea was reminiscent of the dystopian books I loved in middle and high school in the 2010s, and the nostalgia was immediate! I found myself reading this is large chunks. Whenever I had a minute, I made 20 to read just one more chapter. The pacing was perfect to hook you right in! In the post-Awakening society, magic is feared, and everyone within the city walls is assigned to fill the purpose of keeping the city safe from The Outsiders.
Our FMC, Maila, is part of the library research (we stan a fellow book girly), an assignment that she chose for herself when at a young age, she was left with mo family and needed to get to work. This position led to her eventual contact with The Outsiders as she learns to question everything taught to her.
While nostalgic and enjoyable, I would personally recommend this primarily to someone seeking emerging adult books. It does have spice that was well-written, and I would generally recommend for adult audiences, but I see myself aged between 16-20 being the sweetspot for the story so far.
I found the love story a bit quickly played out and predictable for my preference, though it was still well written! I actually most enjoyed some of the fight/action scenes that were very well written and the most interesting to me. I am excited to see what happens within this world as it unfolds more in book 2!
📖 Enchantment of Silver and Sea
✍️ Tara Straight
📱 E-ARC
Enchantment of Silver and Sea was reminiscent of the dystopian books I loved in middle and high school in the 2010s, and the nostalgia was immediate! I found myself reading this is large chunks. Whenever I had a minute, I made 20 to read just one more chapter. The pacing was perfect to hook you right in! In the post-Awakening society, magic is feared, and everyone within the city walls is assigned to fill the purpose of keeping the city safe from The Outsiders.
Our FMC, Maila, is part of the library research (we stan a fellow book girly), an assignment that she chose for herself when at a young age, she was left with mo family and needed to get to work. This position led to her eventual contact with The Outsiders as she learns to question everything taught to her.
While nostalgic and enjoyable, I would personally recommend this primarily to someone seeking emerging adult books. It does have spice that was well-written, and I would generally recommend for adult audiences, but I see myself aged between 16-20 being the sweetspot for the story so far.
I found the love story a bit quickly played out and predictable for my preference, though it was still well written! I actually most enjoyed some of the fight/action scenes that were very well written and the most interesting to me. I am excited to see what happens within this world as it unfolds more in book 2!
October 13, 2025
On StoryGraph, I gave this a 4.5 since Goodreads does not have partial stars available.
This book was fantastic and brought back great memories of reading classic dystopian novels like The Hunger Games and Divergent!
I absolutely loved the superb character development for Maila; you truly get a deep understanding of who she is and how she thinks. I also enjoyed Kieran, and though I wished for more of him, I think that was intentional setup for the next book.
Both the plot and worldbuilding were incredibly well done, with clear distinctions between the "worlds." The believable and interesting plot, combined with the worldbuilding, made the book fly by—I was constantly wanting more!
This novel feels like the perfect bridge from YA to adult content, which is something we need more of. The book had just one spicy scene, which was handled delicately, and the overall tension felt innocent and sweet compared to others in the genre.
My only small critique is that many chapters were quite long, making it tough to step away from the story. I also felt some descriptions were a bit extra and didn't add much, and for a book this length, I hoped for more extensive worldbuilding.
Regardless of that minor issue, I loved this book and am so excited to continue the series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book was fantastic and brought back great memories of reading classic dystopian novels like The Hunger Games and Divergent!
I absolutely loved the superb character development for Maila; you truly get a deep understanding of who she is and how she thinks. I also enjoyed Kieran, and though I wished for more of him, I think that was intentional setup for the next book.
Both the plot and worldbuilding were incredibly well done, with clear distinctions between the "worlds." The believable and interesting plot, combined with the worldbuilding, made the book fly by—I was constantly wanting more!
This novel feels like the perfect bridge from YA to adult content, which is something we need more of. The book had just one spicy scene, which was handled delicately, and the overall tension felt innocent and sweet compared to others in the genre.
My only small critique is that many chapters were quite long, making it tough to step away from the story. I also felt some descriptions were a bit extra and didn't add much, and for a book this length, I hoped for more extensive worldbuilding.
Regardless of that minor issue, I loved this book and am so excited to continue the series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 21, 2025
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️✨ 4.25 Stars
✨Tara Straight’s Enchantment of Silver and Sea is a patient, slow-burning fantasy that rewards readers who enjoy character-driven stories with quiet magic and mystery. The walled city of Cyllene is a place where safety comes before wonder, and where magic has long been suppressed. Maila, a reserved librarian, seems content with her quiet life until chance encounters and the distant pull of the sea begin to awaken something restless within her.
Maila’s story isn’t one of sudden transformation but of gradual shifts, curiosity growing into courage, and the dangerous allure of a Stranger challenging everything she’s been taught. The slow build pays off in the final act, when the pace surges and glimpses of more profound lore and higher stakes emerge.
What I enjoyed most were the themes threaded throughout: belonging, freedom versus safety, and the bittersweet nature of change. The magic is subtle, more symbolic than showy, which adds to the atmosphere. If anything, I wished for more detail on the backstories, but the unanswered questions feel like deliberate groundwork for the series.
A thoughtful and atmospheric start, Enchantment of Silver and Sea carries a quiet strength, leaving me eager to see where Tara Straight takes it next.✨
Thank you, Tara, for picking me to be a part of your ARC team!✨
✨Tara Straight’s Enchantment of Silver and Sea is a patient, slow-burning fantasy that rewards readers who enjoy character-driven stories with quiet magic and mystery. The walled city of Cyllene is a place where safety comes before wonder, and where magic has long been suppressed. Maila, a reserved librarian, seems content with her quiet life until chance encounters and the distant pull of the sea begin to awaken something restless within her.
Maila’s story isn’t one of sudden transformation but of gradual shifts, curiosity growing into courage, and the dangerous allure of a Stranger challenging everything she’s been taught. The slow build pays off in the final act, when the pace surges and glimpses of more profound lore and higher stakes emerge.
What I enjoyed most were the themes threaded throughout: belonging, freedom versus safety, and the bittersweet nature of change. The magic is subtle, more symbolic than showy, which adds to the atmosphere. If anything, I wished for more detail on the backstories, but the unanswered questions feel like deliberate groundwork for the series.
A thoughtful and atmospheric start, Enchantment of Silver and Sea carries a quiet strength, leaving me eager to see where Tara Straight takes it next.✨
Thank you, Tara, for picking me to be a part of your ARC team!✨
August 29, 2025
✨ First of all, I want to thank Tara for sending me an ARC of Enchantment of Silver and Sea!
What a strong debut this is!
We follow the story of Maila, a twenty-year-old woman living in the city of Cyllene (which of course isn’t your average city) where life feels stagnant and unfulfilling. After the tragic death of her sister, Maila struggles with themes of grief and loss, but her connection with Zander and Brielle helps her cope.
When Maila receives a visit from two 'strangers' from beyond the city walls, her curiosity about what lies outside begins to grow.
As the story unfolds, we see strong character development in Maila, along with the discovery of new family, friendship, magic and love.
The worldbuilding is both fascinating and immersive, adding depth and richness to the story.
I really enjoyed this book!
The pacing and structure make each chapter flow seamlessly into the next, which makes it an easy and engaging read. It kept me hooked from start to finish, and I’m very excited for the next book!
📖 Read this if you're looking for:
> forbidden love
> slow burn
> forbidden magic
> found family
> strong female friendships
⭐ Rating: a very solid 4.5/5!
What a strong debut this is!
We follow the story of Maila, a twenty-year-old woman living in the city of Cyllene (which of course isn’t your average city) where life feels stagnant and unfulfilling. After the tragic death of her sister, Maila struggles with themes of grief and loss, but her connection with Zander and Brielle helps her cope.
When Maila receives a visit from two 'strangers' from beyond the city walls, her curiosity about what lies outside begins to grow.
As the story unfolds, we see strong character development in Maila, along with the discovery of new family, friendship, magic and love.
The worldbuilding is both fascinating and immersive, adding depth and richness to the story.
I really enjoyed this book!
The pacing and structure make each chapter flow seamlessly into the next, which makes it an easy and engaging read. It kept me hooked from start to finish, and I’m very excited for the next book!
📖 Read this if you're looking for:
> forbidden love
> slow burn
> forbidden magic
> found family
> strong female friendships
⭐ Rating: a very solid 4.5/5!
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