The Sea Child

by Linda Wilgus

In this enchanting, adventurous debut novel, a band of seafaring smugglers land on the Cornish coast, where a young widow with a mysterious past becomes entangled in their schemes—and with their charismatic captain—as she searches for answers of her own.

England, early 1800 Destitute and forced to leave her home in London, Isabel, a young widow of the Napoleonic Wars, returns to the village on the rugged Cornish coast where she was found as a small child, dripping wet and alone. Hoping to learn more about her enigmatic origins, she’s shocked to find herself at the center of a local legend claiming she’s the daughter of a sea spirit. As Isabel adjusts to living on her own for the first time in her rented cottage, the village appears a refuge, but the coast is rife with smugglers and the Revenue Officers who hunt them. Then, one evening, a group of dangerous raiders arrive at her door, carrying their wounded captain, Jack.

Remembering her late husband’s fatal injuries, Isabel decides to care for Jack and soon senses a powerful connection between them. Unable to forget him and their growing attraction once Jack recovers and leaves, Isabel decides to become involved with the smugglers. Meanwhile, the sea calls to her, and a Revenue Officer who likes to hang smugglers poses a threat in more ways than one. Soon, she finds herself caught on the wrong side of the law, with violence and heartbreak looming.

From the coves of Cornwall to the wild coast of Brittany, during perilous raids at sea and society dinner parties, Isabel struggles to understand her kinship with the ocean while she seeks answers about her past. But when the threat catches up with them and Jack’s life hangs in the balance, she must draw on all her courage and delve deep into mythical heart of the Cornish coast. For only a Sea Child can turn the tide…

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Magical Realism, Historical, Fiction, Fantasy, Historical Romance

Audiobook

First published January 20, 2026

About the author

Linda Wilgus is an author of historical fiction with a heavy dose of romance, folklore and mystery. Her debut novel THE SEA CHILD was published in January 2026 in the US and February 2026 in the UK, and has been translated into numerous languages. Linda grew up in the Netherlands dreaming of travelling in time and writing novels and she loves that in writing historical fiction she gets to do both.

Reviews

[Meagan (Meagansbookclub) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rounding up from 4.5

The audiobook was absolutely captivating! I was hooked to this story of Isabel and couldn’t stop listening until the very last second. I think it was missing that 5 star spark, but it was addictive and I found myself very much swept up in the atmospheric writing.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Throughly enchanting story through the Cornish coast and the most adorable cottage inhabited by Isabel our widow. The story drew me in from the start and I was invested in the little town and its inhabitants. I adored watching Isabel learn to survive and thrive on her own. Then we get to watch Isabel figure out what to do with a handsome smuggler who ends up wounded in her cottage. Sooo much delicious tension as the story unfolds. Throughly enjoyed this read and stayed up nice and late to finish the book because I had to know how it ended !!!

[Liz Fenwick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A stunning debut deliciously laced with folklore, mystery and romance. I loved it.

[Alanna Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a four star read for me. Books I rate 4 stars are books I will continue to recommend! It was an enjoyable read. If this author writes another novel,I will pick it up! I will be over on my social channels discussing this book and all the others!

[Greer Nadeau · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this book! Isabel is a widow who has just left London to live by the sea in Cornwall due to rumors and her late husband's debts. The village she moves to is the same she was found in, soaking wet with no memories, 19 years before, but despite this, she expects to live a silent solitary life. She could not be more wrong. Not only do the villagers think she is the daughter of the Sea Bucca—a merman like creature with skin like a conger eel and seaweed for hair in Cornish myth—but she is soon sucked into a dangerous world she could have never imagined before. Whether or not she is the daughter of the Sea Bucca, Isabel is a brave and daring heroine. Really, this book is so lovely and I can't recommend it enough (also now I'm obsessed with the Sea Bucca).

Thank you netgalley and Ballentine Books for the chance to read and review this novel. The Sea Child will be available on January 20th (and I can't recommend it enough!)

[Mary McBride · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a romantic love story set in Cornwall-
Who wouldn’t fall for a handsome smuggler?
Now back to my TBR stack..

[Rishali Dey · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, I love how I’ve been reading faster than I’ve been reviewing lately—pretty sure I’m going to crush my Goodreads goals this year 😂

Now, onto The Sea Child.

This book beautifully blends historical fiction, adventure, mystery, morally grey characters, and an extreme slow-burn romance. If you’re looking for all of these tropes wrapped into one story, this book might be for you.

I really enjoyed how the story begins as a mystery surrounding the FMC’s childhood—her sudden appearance in a coastal town and the lingering rumors that follow her into adulthood when she returns years later. What starts as a mystery slowly unfolds into a story of self-discovery, following a young nobleman’s widow as she navigates the monotony and hardship of life after losing her wealth. Watching her journey toward reclaiming her sense of worth—and recognizing her deep yearning for the sea and the pull it has on her—was incredibly compelling.

I also loved how the author connected the FMC and MMC through their shared longing for the sea. Their bond felt organic, and the focus on morally grey characters made their dynamic even more intriguing. By the end, I found myself fully rooting for them. For a debut novel, this book is impressively written, with atmospheric prose that truly made me feel transported to the setting.

That said, my main issue was the pacing. The beginning felt very slow and dragged at times, though the story definitely picked up toward the end. I think the book would benefit from better spacing of major events to maintain momentum throughout.

Overall, The Sea Child is a strong and memorable debut, and I’m excited to see what the author does next.

Thank you to the author and Ballantine for gifting me an early copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Allie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a brilliant debut from the lovely Linda Wilgus! The Sea Child had the perfect balance of all the hopefulness of falling in love while also leaning into the societal themes I adore in historical fiction, with a unique supernatural twist. The FMC Isabel's tenacity & gradual appreciation of her independence were very compelling & I can't get over all the action of the ending!

Following her husband's wartime death, Isabel grapples with her lack of fortune & deteriorated social status by starting over - why not start over in the place that she was found emerging from the sea as a young child all those years ago? But shortly after getting settled, smugglers intrude in her home seeking shelter for their wounded captain, the intriguing & alluring Jack. Despite the danger, Isabel offers Jack aid & sanctuary, quickly developing a deep connection with him. As she leans more into her dealings with the smugglers & Jack, Isabel becomes entangled in the web of their illegal activity, all to stay close to Jack & the ever-calling sea.

The gradual increase in pace throughout the book was very natural & the descriptions were layered smoothly (I would love to visit Isabel's garden, it sounds adorable!). The chemistry between Isabel & Jack was also electric - I could feel it in every instance they were both together. As soon as Jack was introduced I re-read the back of the book hoping he was a main character because I loved them together!

There were a few "don't do it!" moments throughout the book that had me desperately waving the book around hoping for Isabel to make a different decision. But her feeling the need to be polite & being very trusting were undeniably relatable & definitely translated well from the early 1800s to now.

Overall, I loved this book & will be anxiously waiting to hear about Linda's next novel! The Sea Child by Linda Wilgus releases on January 20, 2026.

Thank you so much for the ARC copy Linda Wilgus & Ballantine Books!

[Marci Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sea Child is definitely giving Poldark with fantasy on the side.

Isabel is a young widow driven from London by rumor and loss, returning to a Cornish coastal village that has always whispered about her; about how she once seemed to rise from the sea itself. While Isabel is trying to build a life for herself and regain independence she finds herself drawn to Jack. Captain Jack that is, is a dreamy, "dangerous" smuggler with the kind of presence that unsettles Isabel. This connection takes Isabel on an adventure she could never imagine but always longed for.

"Georges eyes on her made her feel cared for, warm; secure. His embrace was like dipping into a calm sea on a hot day. With Jack it’s the opposite, the look in his eyes makes a storm inside her; black clouds, churning water, towering foaming waves and all of it heated as if the sun lives in them."

What I loved most this novel was how seamlessly this story blends history, folklore, and romance. Isabel’s growth was exponential and deeply earned. Her bravery especially her insistence on independence made her a main character I found myself wanting the best ending for. I listened on audio, which made this an especially immersive experience; it was easy to stay engaged while moving through the day.

I would recommend if you are looking for an easy read/listen with moody vibes.

[Destiny || readingisyourdestiny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to @lindajwilgus for sending me an ARC with goodies and to @ballantinebooks and @randomhouse for the finished copy!

Title: The Sea Child
Author: Linda Wilgus
Pub Date: January 20, 2026

I’ve been cranking out the five star book reviews lately! I’m like 20 books behind on sharing reviews and am naturally picking the ones I’m most excited about first, THE SEA CHILD being one of them!
I was so excited for 2026 debuts, and they have truly been blowing it out of the water (pun intended)!

The synopsis of this book immediately sold me. A young widow returning to a village where she was found as a child dripping wet and alone? SOLD. Dangerous smugglers arriving at her down with a wounded captain she may or may not fall in love with? DOUBLE SOLD.

This story absolutely delivered. It was adventurous, romantic, mysterious and I couldn’t get enough of our main character Isabel. I felt like a kid lost in a fairy tale while reading this book. The prose, the characters, the plotline were all so perfectly constructed that I never wanted to put it down!

I don’t want to give anything else away, but make sure this debut is on your 2026 TBR!

[Christi (christireadsalot) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. The Sea Child is a new historical fiction release that I was so intrigued by. It’s definitely slow and more atmospheric. Set in 1808/9 range, we follow Isabel, a young widow of the Napoleonic Wars as she leaves behind London and lands on the Cornish coast where she was found as a young child.

This immediately gave me Poldark vibes, the setting, the sea, the smuggling. It also has a bit of a charming quality to it and leans into Cornish folklore. Isabel was found as a young child wandering out of the sea before she was adopted by a family who found her. The people who live in the small village still talk about her and think she’s the daughter of the sea Bucca, a merman or sea spirit. After leaving behind London and her late husband’s debts, Isabel was looking forward to a quieter life in the village near the sea, a place she always feels the need to be near. But then a smuggler shows up and she gets swept up with his adventure.

For a debut this was solid. I loved the Cornish folklore woven into the story, I think it slowed down a bit for me into the smuggling/seafaring parts. It has a romance in there too. As someone who loves being near the sea as well, I did enjoy all those bits of the story and Isabel’s character. I think if you enjoyed Poldark (the books or the show) or even the book Isola last year, this style of writing and storytelling gave me similar vibes.

[Andrea | andrea.c.lowry.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolutely stunning debut! It’s so good that I’m having a hard time coming up with a review that can truly capture how emotionally invested I become in the story and Isabel’s character from the very beginning.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆?

This was such a beautifully written story of resilience and strength, and I absolutely loved the writing so much. The emotions kept flowing from each page, and you could just feel the heart that Wilgus put into Isabel’s character as she began a new phase in her life as a destitute widow. Even though Isabel had to learn how to do everything for herself, she did it with strength, determination, and a bit of a smile because she was discovering that she finally was a free and independent woman.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁:

Cornish Folklore
Self Discovery
Morally Grey Characters
Historical Romance
One Bed
Adventure
Independent FMC
Bit of Magic

𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲?

Steady

𝗗𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸?

I was raving about this book on social media and to anyone who would listen to me as soon as I started it. I’m hoping everyone out there grabs a copy and has this story steal your heart too!

Thank you Ballantine Books for this gifted copy.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the perfect read after my recent Bridgerton binge. The setting is also 1800s England, but in a new and quieter corner off the Cornish coast. So if you’re experiencing Regency withdraws as well, I highly recommend picking this up!

The story features a dash of magical folklore, smugglers and free traders, the societal expectations and limitations of the era, and a love story that had me grinning more than once. Nothing about this book is loud or in your face, there’s no rushing, just a gentle ebb and flow to the storytelling that mimics the tide itself. I felt truly immersed in the time period and was completely swept away by the beautiful prose. In other words I absolutely loved it!

If you always wanted more of Will and Elizabeth’s story from Pirates of the Caribbean, or if period pieces speak to your soul, this book is a MUST add to your TBR!

Thank you so much to Ballantine and the author for the gifted copy of the novel. I loved it so much I had to buy the audio as well! As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Rachelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Sea Child by @lindajwilgus (thank you #partner @ballantinebooks @randomhouse ) is an enthralling debut with a little bit of everything: romance, adventure, self-discovery, even a hint of magic.

Isabel, destitute and widowed, moves to Cornwall in the early 1800s. A town where she was found when was four years old, soaking wet without a parent in sight. And also a town that's rife with smugglers, a particularly handsome one crossing her path soon after she moves in.

From the description, I expected the atmospheric setting: full of wild rivers, endless sea, lots of folklore. I was ready for a main character who's smart and determined, ready to forge her own path.

What I did not anticipate was how hard I would fall for Jack and Isabel. From one bed to unexpected visits, the romance had it all. Even though I'm ultimately going to shelve this as historical fiction, because it's really about Isabel's journey, I absolutely loved their connection.

And buckle in for that ending. Because, as my tired eyes can attest, once you get to the last 100 pages you won't be able to stop.

[Lindsay Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this! I can’t believe it’s a debut novel. If you like historical fiction, romance, mythology, and swashbuckling adventure, read this book. I loved the narration of the audiobook version.

Content: one brief and vague open door scene. No profanity. A few violent scenes but not obscene.

[Cori · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is set in the early 1800s in England and this is a time period that I don't read enough about , but always enjoy it when I do. In this book, Isabel is widowed and starting over in a small cottage along the sea. I felt transported to the time and place and I was rooting for her despite obstacles and challenges that were presented to her. She has an underlying calling to the sea and I loved hearing how rumors about her past might have played a role. Once I started reading I couldn't put the book down and wanted to know how things played out for Isabel as she navigates smugglers, the Revenue service (that may or may not be taking the law into their own hands) and the friends and acquaintances that she meets. I highly recommend this read! Thank you Ballentine books for the early copy on Netgalley!

[Sam Manucy (chsbibliophile) · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a historical fiction/historical romance full of yearning, adventure, and lore surrounding the Cornish seaside, this should be your next read! Living on the coast of South Carolina, the ocean is a constant in my life between tides, bridges, and how it shapes the Lowcountry. Diving into this debut from Linda Wilgus, the inherent ties to the sea are a constant theme. This novel follows Isabel, a young widow to a British naval officer, who is forced to move to a small cottage on the Cornish coast, accommodating her life to a widow’s pension due to previously unknown debts. Set during the Napoleonic Wars of the 1800’s, the British Navy and government are at odds against smugglers who simply want to lessen the financial burdens for everyday goods that come from France. Living alone and having to fend for herself, Isabel’s world is turned upside down when an injured smuggler makes his way into her cottage. After nursing him back to health, Isabel must untangle her grief towards her deceased husband and her new attraction to the mysterious Jack within this new season of her life, while also uncovering mysterious parts of her own past. As a young child, Isabel seemed to appear out of thin air, soaked to the bone with no memories of who she was or where she came from, almost as if she had appeared directly from the sea… Steeped in Cornish folklore regarding the existence of merfolk, Isabel must champion her own path forward, either listening to her heart and the call of the sea, or maintaining societal constraints of the 1800’s. Wilgus adeptly weaves mystery and romance into this story, and I particularly loved how Isabel found her truest self, even under dire circumstances. I enjoyed the nautical elements of this story and how it related to ships and sailing during this time period, lending to an all-encompassing need for adventure. Like many tales in folklore, the mystery surrounding the Cornish Bucca is never quite solved, but it makes the reader look more closely at things that cannot be easily explained.

Big thank you to Linda Wilgus and Ballantine Books for gifting me an ARC copy to review; all thoughts are my own.

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listened to this one on audio and I loved it. The narrator is so good—Hannah Genesius does a phenomenal job with the different characters’ voices, the pacing, the tension of the dramatic scenes. It really adds to the lovely experience of The Sea Child. I’ll need to get a copy of the audiobook at some point.

I love the blend of Cornish folklore that was as much a part of the setting as everything else. The tale of the Sea Bucca and mermaids, the local legend of Isabel being the daughter of the Sea Bucca for having been found dripping wet on the shore of Helford in Cornwall as a child is at the heart of the tale, with the mystery being around whether or not there’s some truth to the tale after all. Isabel herself has no memories of her first four years of life, so we get to go along for the ride as Isabel returns to the village where she was found and discovers who she is. It’s been three years since she was widowed, so grief is a big theme, but it blends beautifully with Isabel learning to build a life for herself, how to be independent and also to make true friends and do whatever she wants to do, like finally go to sea.

The atmosphere of the book is at times hauntingly beautiful, the sea a constant presence so tangible it’s pretty much its own character, and poignant in Isabel’s struggle with guilt over not having felt like she loved her husband enough yet also missing him and the possibility of their future so much. I love the way Jack just crashes into her life and shakes things up further; their first meeting is so memorable but also fitting, hinting at the life full of adventure awaiting her. Sowerby (sp? Audiobook means idk how anything is spelled lmao) is as odious as Isabel finds him—he clearly cannot take a hint when Isabel tries to politely kick him out and way oversteps with his stalking (“protecting” ughhh). He sort of represents Isabel’s past/her ties to societal expectations and reputations, and her distaste for him makes it clear how much she longs for the freedom of her new life.

Much of the story is focused on Isabel’s growth as she learns to spread her wings (or tail?), and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. I had to stay up to finish this one just to find out exactly how it ended (and to get that answer to the questions around her origin). I also loved the quiet way her relationship with Jack just deepens, the understanding of each other and their motivations, the intimacy that develops gradually (despite the relatively short time frame) as they work together and just enjoy each other’s company. Their connection is instantaneous, yet it doesn’t feel rushed as Isabel has to figure out her feelings and them being together feels inevitable. The tension and yearning between them is palpable and delectable.

That last quarter of the book is so stressful (for obvious reasons when you get to it haha). The way the tension is developed and the suspense over whether or not the plan will succeed, how everything will pan out, is just *chef’s kiss*. I was holding my breath for certain scenes, wanting to yell at Isabel to move!!! But it worked out, and the reward of that final scene was worth the stress. And the way that letter and Isabel’s memory coming back to her were done? Beautiful, lovely, perfect. The story of The Sea Child will stay with me, and I’m sure I’ll end up rereading (or listening) when I’m in the mood for some healing adventure and the magic and myth of the sea.

[Helen_t_reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Linda Wilgus and Simon & Schuster for inviting me to read and review a GIFTED copy of The Sea Child which comes out on 12th February.

Our main character, Isabel, has always been surrounded by an air of mystery, ever since she appeared on the Cornish shore, soaking wet, and unable to speak, at the age of four. The villagers believed she was brought from the sea, the daughter of a spirit called the Sea Bucca.

Now, widowed, and impoverished, Isabel feels the ocean calling her to come back home so she returns to a humble cottage on the outskirts of the village where she was first found.

When Jack Carlyon, an injured smuggler, crosses her path, she is swept up into a love story that will test her courage, her reputation, and her heart. Jack plays a dangerous game, and there are those that would hang him if they knew what he was.

Isabel fights to make sense of the magical pull of the ocean and wants to protect Jack, but at what cost, and can they overcome the odds to be together?

If you enjoy historical fiction laced with romance and adventure, you really need to pick up this gorgeous debut, because there is so much to love between its pages: its Cornish setting; a FMC learning to live her best, independent life; a handsome and dashing smuggler MMC; romance; adventure; and moral dilemmas. And it's all threaded through with an intriguing Cornish mythical/folkloric element.

There is a a vivid evocation of time and place in this novel, thanks to detailed research underpinning it, and the lyrical descriptions of the Cornish land- and seascape, both of which make you feel as though you're right there, in the midst of everything.

This sense of immediacy, combined with the way Linda Wilgus draws and develops her characters, pulls you quickly into the story, and you're soon completely invested, as the dramatic and romantic tensions slowly build.

Despite a morally grey storyline, which propels you through its pages, you're desperately rooting for Isabel and Jack to prevail. I really enjoyed seeing Isabel blossom into a strong, resourceful woman, relishing her independence and casting off the conventions and restructions posed by early 19th century society, whilst handsome Jack is a heady, swoon-worthy mix of sensitivity and swashbucklingness - I may possibly have made that word up just as I may possibly have fallen a little bit in love with Jack!

The other characters are equally skilfully drawn and I was very fond of Mrs Dowling and Tom Holder, whilst growing to appreciate Harriet as her story unfolded.

I thoroughly enjoyed this immersive, transportive debut, and I'll definitely be reading whatever Linda writes next. Recommended, especially if you're a fan of Winston Graham's Poldark series.

4.25 stars

[lookleahreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifulllllllllll debut that was worth savoring.

Huge thank you to Linda Wilgus, Ballantine Books, and Penguin Random House for the gifted copy of THE SEA CHILD. I had hoped to read and share this before its publication date (1/20/26), but my kids and I took turns being sick during the month of January. In the end, waiting until I could truly slow down, take my time, and fully absorb the story was absolutely worth it.

THE SEA CHILD is a stunning & heartfelt debut. Linda Wilgus writes with such tenderness & created characters that feel deeply real and a story that unfolds with patience and care. There were absolutely parts of the story that had my heart racing or where I had a lump in my throat — it was like I forgot I was reading a fictional story on my couch.

Isabel is an incredibly strong and admirable FMC — resilient and so easy to root for from the very beginning. And our MMC Jack… I truly loved every single aspect of his character. He’s written with depth and authenticity, making their connection unfold over time feel so thoughtful and real.

This is the kind of book that asks you to sit with it and to let it wash over you — and I loved every single page. For a debut novel, this felt remarkably assured, and I’m so grateful to have had the chance to read and share it.

Highly recommend to readers who love historical fiction, character-driven stories and maybe even some sea-magic + smugglers 😉 I’ve already recommended this book to so many people!

5 stars for THE SEA CHILD ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Martine Foda-Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a stunning debut novel! I was easily lured in to reading it the minute I knew it took place in Cornwall, England and in and around the sea which has always had my heart. Linda's descriptions were fluid and easily seen in the minds eye. I could smell the brine of the ocean and hear the water's call as if I was actually there. I loved learning about the Cornish culture of the 1800's, the wars during that time as well as the folklore/customs and practices. The role of women was a central theme as well as sacrifice for what one believes in and what one will do for love and autonomy.

Isabel is a widow starting anew in Cornwall, fleeing from her past in London. She mostly keeps to herself until she meets some friends and inadvertently becomes aquainted and entangled with a devastatingly handsome smuggler named Jack. Simultaneously, a man of the law, Lieutenant Sowerby, is smitten with Isabel, but she does not return the sentiment and finds he is a threat in more ways than she can imagine.

Isabel is bold, daring, and longs to continue to be free of a man's rule. She is in search of who she really is because there is more to uncover about her past and learn why she is the way she is and why she needs to be near the sea.

This story fulfilled everything I was hoping it would be and more! She created yearning and tension throughout the story. And though it was a slower pace, it felt like an appropriate build leading up to a fantastic climax. I also loved the mythical/magical elements in this story. Chefs kiss!

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is already a strong contender for my favorite book of 2026--and yes, I know it's only January.

Set in 1800s England, Isabel, a young widow, returns to the town she was found (not born) in as a child, trying to escape scandalous rumors from the city. Rumors of her strange origins surround her, and many believe her to be the daughter of a sea spirit. The mystery of her past combines with dangers of the present as she meets a wounded smuggler, Jack, and they form a bond.

I loved the strength of Isabel and the way that it still fit the setting. There were many ways that the book acknowledged and addressed the ways that women were essentially imprisoned in marriage, and even Isabel herself acknowledges that there is a freedom in widowhood. Even as society presses in on them, Isabel also still finds ways to break out of these bonds, taking to the sea as a sailor among the best of them.

I couldn't put this book down once I started--the writing itself was beautiful, but beyond that, the story was complex and rich. I've seen a few reviews that commented that some of the male characters (specifically, Jack and Sowerby) are a little too black and white, but I have to disagree. Jack was plenty morally grey, and although Isabel as the POV character still idolizes him, he is forced to do many dangerous things to protect her, himself, and his crew. Sowerby is certainly a slimy, scummy character--but I loved the inclusion of that precisely because of how accurate it felt. He is the kind of person who views himself as so righteous and correct, even in his cruelty, and pursues Isabel in a way that feels awful but also incredibly familiar.

There is a slow burn romance that I found incredibly satisfying, and plenty of danger both in terms of secrets and society but also actual violence, plus hints of myths and magic throughout. Ultimately, it all comes together in what I found to be a beautiful and compelling read, especially from a debut novel.

[Leah Cyphert · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sea Child by Linda Wilgus - 4 Stars

First thing, before I say anything else ... that cover!

I've gotten picky about the historical fiction that I read...I'm acutely aware that the stories we choose to tell about our history become many readers' only window into that time period, place, or event. The most important thing I learned from studying History for my undergraduate degree was not the dry dates and names, but rather that perspective is important. And there is no better way to understand a historical time period or place then in the shoes of a well=researched fictional character.

To avoid spoilers I'll say this -- the time period is intriguing, the male characters are unique to the place and time, but also relatable to boorish asses and sexy hero-types in the genre and in modern times. Isabel is both daring and sweet, caring and passionate, independent and constrained by her place, time, and gender.

And there may or may not be a merman :)

Thank you to the publisher and author for the opportunity to read and review this novel. I received this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Heidi Pliwko · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the history, magic, and mystery in this genre-bending book. I didn’t know about the history of the smugglers in England in the 1800’s and loved the folklore tied into the story.

Thank you to NetGalley for an Advanced Readers Copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Madiha Kamal · Rating 5 out of 5]

THOROUGLY enjoyed this historical fictional romance adventure set in the 1800s in England. A tale of the sea, swashbuckling rebels! So much fun! And so engaging.

[Jennifer Gutierrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

audiobook was really good

[Bre Clem · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this! Ive never read any novels set in the 1800’s or in a Cornish setting- but the picture Linda painted of this cove by the sea was beautiful.

I would love a sequel to this or if it had been 100 pages longer- because I adored the love that blossomed between Isabel and Jack.

To fight for who you love and to be so brave to become someone else in order to save their lives- is truly heroic and for the time period they lived in, it was no small feat.

[Yami_Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sea Child by Linda Wilgus

4/5 ⭐️

This debut novel is a 1800s historical, heartfelt story that includes myths, adventure, and romance.

Isabel (FMC) is a recent widow who returns to a coastal town in England (where the locals claim she is of mythical descent) in hopes of hiding and starting over. After a split decision to help a dangerous stranger, her life changes as she begins to question everything, everyone, and even her past.

Wilgus wrote beautifully and did an amazing job of describing the characters and their emotions that centered on identity, belonging, and choosing right from wrong. I really enjoyed the slower pace and emotional style of writing that made this story especially immersive.

This was a fantastic read, and I highly recommend this novel!

[Tate · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 rounded up! WOW this was so imaginative and unique. I was captivated—completely immersed in the setting and drawn to the characters. This would be a great book club pick!

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

The packaging for this book makes it look like your run-of-the-mill hisfic but it’s SO ROMANTIC and ADVENTUROUS and MYSTERIOUS. I was enthralled