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Return to Water
Linnea Blackwood studies the ocean from the safe side of glass. Specimen jars. Microscopes. Her dissertation on deep-water bioluminescence is nearly ready to defend.
Then her mother dies, and something in Linnea begins to wake up.
The scales come first. Then a hunger that settles behind her ribs when she listens too closely to other people's pain. It feels like comfort. It isn't.
By the time she finds the letters hidden beneath the floorboards, her body has already made its choice. The woman who raised her was not what she claimed, and Linnea is something else entirely. The ocean has been waiting thirty-two years for her to come home.
The Return to Water is a literary novella about appetite and what happens when justice starts to feel like feeding.
Then her mother dies, and something in Linnea begins to wake up.
The scales come first. Then a hunger that settles behind her ribs when she listens too closely to other people's pain. It feels like comfort. It isn't.
By the time she finds the letters hidden beneath the floorboards, her body has already made its choice. The woman who raised her was not what she claimed, and Linnea is something else entirely. The ocean has been waiting thirty-two years for her to come home.
The Return to Water is a literary novella about appetite and what happens when justice starts to feel like feeding.
- GenresDark Fantasy
104 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2026
About the author
Luna Asli Kolcu
8 books104 followersI write nightmares people can enjoy and dreams with teeth.
Horror, fantasy, and whatever lives where they blur. Stories about grief, memory, identity, and love that refuses to die quietly.
I grew up between Anatolia, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and the steppes. Old places. My writing comes from there too. Myths and half-remembered legends.
Born and raised in Istanbul, studied in London. Now I live in a 17th-century stone farmhouse in rural Catalonia with the love of my life (who is an amazing artist), my kids, five dogs, a deeply judgmental cat named Galadriel who supervises every draft.
Horror, fantasy, and whatever lives where they blur. Stories about grief, memory, identity, and love that refuses to die quietly.
I grew up between Anatolia, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and the steppes. Old places. My writing comes from there too. Myths and half-remembered legends.
Born and raised in Istanbul, studied in London. Now I live in a 17th-century stone farmhouse in rural Catalonia with the love of my life (who is an amazing artist), my kids, five dogs, a deeply judgmental cat named Galadriel who supervises every draft.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was the second title that I read by this author. My expectations were high after the first book, The Hospitality. For some background I will state that I am a retired Clinical Laboratory Scientist and am very critical about science and research, even when I read fiction. The book did not disappoint. Luna Kolcu's prose is beautiful, detailed (without being boring) and suspenseful. Her books seem to contain moral dilemmas which sometime calls for personal introspection. Don't get me wrong, her books are engaging and enjoyable. I like reading books which make me think about different cultures and other peoples decisions.
I look forward to more titles by this intriguing author.
This was the second title that I read by this author. My expectations were high after the first book, The Hospitality. For some background I will state that I am a retired Clinical Laboratory Scientist and am very critical about science and research, even when I read fiction. The book did not disappoint. Luna Kolcu's prose is beautiful, detailed (without being boring) and suspenseful. Her books seem to contain moral dilemmas which sometime calls for personal introspection. Don't get me wrong, her books are engaging and enjoyable. I like reading books which make me think about different cultures and other peoples decisions.
I look forward to more titles by this intriguing author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review: Return to Water by Luna Asli Kolcu
A First-Time Dive into Dark Fantasy:
I want to start by giving a huge thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced copy. I’ve always said that the ocean guards deep, dark secrets, and this story proves exactly why. This was my first time truly diving into the Dark Fantasy genre, and after reading this, I’m honestly wondering why it took me so long to start!
The Story of Margaret
The character of Margaret really touched me. Even in a fantasy setting, the characters felt incredibly real and grounded. Their emotions and struggles made the darker elements of the plot hit much harder. Luna Asli Kolcu did an excellent job building a world that felt completely believable, which is no small feat when you're writing about the mysteries of the deep sea.
Atmosphere & World-Building:
If you are fascinated by the secrets of the ocean, this book is for you. The atmosphere is thick, mysterious, and beautifully dark. It’s a "different" kind of story that stands out from the crowd. The way the author constructed the lore of the water made it feel like these secrets could actually be hiding just beneath the surface in real life.
The Verdict: A True Hidden Gem
The ending left me wanting so much more! It’s rare to find an indie author who can balance high-concept fantasy with such raw human emotion. Luna Asli Kolcu is a definite hidden gem in the literary world. I’m giving this a well-deserved 5 stars without a doubt.
Quick Breakdown:
The Vibe: Dark, immersive, and fascinating.
Standout Element: Margaret’s emotional journey and the believable ocean world-building.
For Fans Of: Deep-sea mysteries, dark lore, and unique indie fantasy.
Final Rating: 5/5 Stars ★★★★★
A First-Time Dive into Dark Fantasy:
I want to start by giving a huge thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced copy. I’ve always said that the ocean guards deep, dark secrets, and this story proves exactly why. This was my first time truly diving into the Dark Fantasy genre, and after reading this, I’m honestly wondering why it took me so long to start!
The Story of Margaret
The character of Margaret really touched me. Even in a fantasy setting, the characters felt incredibly real and grounded. Their emotions and struggles made the darker elements of the plot hit much harder. Luna Asli Kolcu did an excellent job building a world that felt completely believable, which is no small feat when you're writing about the mysteries of the deep sea.
Atmosphere & World-Building:
If you are fascinated by the secrets of the ocean, this book is for you. The atmosphere is thick, mysterious, and beautifully dark. It’s a "different" kind of story that stands out from the crowd. The way the author constructed the lore of the water made it feel like these secrets could actually be hiding just beneath the surface in real life.
The Verdict: A True Hidden Gem
The ending left me wanting so much more! It’s rare to find an indie author who can balance high-concept fantasy with such raw human emotion. Luna Asli Kolcu is a definite hidden gem in the literary world. I’m giving this a well-deserved 5 stars without a doubt.
Quick Breakdown:
The Vibe: Dark, immersive, and fascinating.
Standout Element: Margaret’s emotional journey and the believable ocean world-building.
For Fans Of: Deep-sea mysteries, dark lore, and unique indie fantasy.
Final Rating: 5/5 Stars ★★★★★
March 26, 2026
I received a free copy of this book through BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
When I was maybe a young teenager, I had a dream/nightmare that freaked me out to the point that I could not wear elbow-length fishnet gloves, which were very much the style of my youth.
In my dream, I was flying over the small street behind the local outdoor mall with a long dragon that looked like a mix of Haku from Spirited Away and Falkor from The NeverEnding Story. The sun was bright, and the sky was the most perfect shade of blue my mind could conjure; not a cloud in sight. I looked down at my dream-arm, and horrible, bloody, white scales covered my arm. It was so nauseating that when I woke up, I could never wear tight-knit fishnets again. Not on my legs or my arms. If even one scale appears on a character’s arm in a piece of media, a terrified chill goes down my spine, yet I will pause and stare for much longer than is necessary. It became a morbid fixation of sorts.
So, to say I was equal parts fascinated and revolted by the physical changes Linnea, the narrator, undergoes in Return to Water is an understatement.
In Luna Asli Kolcu’s Return to Water, she explores grief, betrayal, and homecoming as Linnea Blackwood grapples with the death of her “mother.” It’s a devastating exploration of mommy issues and innate desires that drive Linnea back to her home. I may have read this at the perfect time, given my own experience with one of those topics.
It’s a relatively quick read; I probably could have finished it in one day, but I do love to take my time, naturally. One would think with all the scientific terms for marine life, the language would bog down the progression of the story, but I think the natural integration of that specific language helped to establish the psyche of Linnea.
The story flows really well (haha, flows). It’s fast-paced, but it doesn’t feel like it. Though you’re dropped into the middle of events occurring, the process of reveal feels very natural.
The one somewhat unnatural thing about it is how emotionally cognizant Linnea is for most of the story. There comes a point where it makes sense that she’s aware of how certain emotions can feel like different ones, but before that point, she’s just slightly too aware. That can be explained by the more unstable state of her in the wake of her “mother’s” death or by the truth of her origin that we learn about halfway through the book, but I just feel like… she’s just too aware. It’s not so off-putting like other books I’ve read, but it was just barely on the other side of that line that I had to take note of it.
Another thing I took note of was the style of writing. Never in my life have I read a book with such clear and specific style that did not thus impede the story. Yes, the sentence structure was fairly repetitive, but the style was interesting, so I was able to let it go. The closer I got to the end of the book, though, the more I was rolling my eyes, thinking, “Oh, how lovely, this stylistic choice again.” Not in a bad way! But in a, “Yes, I see you love to describe things this way.” By the end, the stylistic choice was more charming than anything.
Ultimately, I did enjoy the book. It was narratively compelling with vivid descriptions that you absolutely want in a dark fantasy. This is an easy Four-Star read. Very good.
When I was maybe a young teenager, I had a dream/nightmare that freaked me out to the point that I could not wear elbow-length fishnet gloves, which were very much the style of my youth.
In my dream, I was flying over the small street behind the local outdoor mall with a long dragon that looked like a mix of Haku from Spirited Away and Falkor from The NeverEnding Story. The sun was bright, and the sky was the most perfect shade of blue my mind could conjure; not a cloud in sight. I looked down at my dream-arm, and horrible, bloody, white scales covered my arm. It was so nauseating that when I woke up, I could never wear tight-knit fishnets again. Not on my legs or my arms. If even one scale appears on a character’s arm in a piece of media, a terrified chill goes down my spine, yet I will pause and stare for much longer than is necessary. It became a morbid fixation of sorts.
So, to say I was equal parts fascinated and revolted by the physical changes Linnea, the narrator, undergoes in Return to Water is an understatement.
In Luna Asli Kolcu’s Return to Water, she explores grief, betrayal, and homecoming as Linnea Blackwood grapples with the death of her “mother.” It’s a devastating exploration of mommy issues and innate desires that drive Linnea back to her home. I may have read this at the perfect time, given my own experience with one of those topics.
It’s a relatively quick read; I probably could have finished it in one day, but I do love to take my time, naturally. One would think with all the scientific terms for marine life, the language would bog down the progression of the story, but I think the natural integration of that specific language helped to establish the psyche of Linnea.
The story flows really well (haha, flows). It’s fast-paced, but it doesn’t feel like it. Though you’re dropped into the middle of events occurring, the process of reveal feels very natural.
The one somewhat unnatural thing about it is how emotionally cognizant Linnea is for most of the story. There comes a point where it makes sense that she’s aware of how certain emotions can feel like different ones, but before that point, she’s just slightly too aware. That can be explained by the more unstable state of her in the wake of her “mother’s” death or by the truth of her origin that we learn about halfway through the book, but I just feel like… she’s just too aware. It’s not so off-putting like other books I’ve read, but it was just barely on the other side of that line that I had to take note of it.
Another thing I took note of was the style of writing. Never in my life have I read a book with such clear and specific style that did not thus impede the story. Yes, the sentence structure was fairly repetitive, but the style was interesting, so I was able to let it go. The closer I got to the end of the book, though, the more I was rolling my eyes, thinking, “Oh, how lovely, this stylistic choice again.” Not in a bad way! But in a, “Yes, I see you love to describe things this way.” By the end, the stylistic choice was more charming than anything.
Ultimately, I did enjoy the book. It was narratively compelling with vivid descriptions that you absolutely want in a dark fantasy. This is an easy Four-Star read. Very good.
March 13, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Unsettling, dark, a bit terrifying - I don't know what this says about me that these descriptions were largely why I couldn't look away from the pages of Return to Water. It's been awhile since I've encountered a story of such writing calibre that I might classify it as literary perfection, something that vaguely reminded me of the awe I felt upon first discovering the macabre and chilling works of Edgar Allan Poe or Emily Dickinson more than 20 years ago as a college student studying classic literature.
With startling accuracy, the author's exquisite prose paints a depiction of scenes that leave me feeling as though I were right there with the main character Linnea as she progresses on her journey of discovering who and what she is. This isn't just a story about a woman who uncovers a lifetime of secrets. This is a tale of the lies we choose to believe about ourselves for the sake of staying comfortable, for the sake of not seeming "other" in a sea of similar faces. It's a tale of isolation and grief and the monsters we all carry deep within us that refuse to lie dormant when everything we thought we knew about ourselves comes crashing down.
This was an interesting take on hidden identity, the loss of one's humanity in the face of pain, nature's unsympathetic answer to balance and the fantastical horrors that could be found lurking in the unknown depths of the ocean, literally waiting to feed on our greatest vulnerabilities. In just 104 pages, Luna Asli Kolcu reminded me of why I fell in love with fiction writing so long ago, and that's why I could give nothing less to this little novella than 5 ⭐️'s.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing me with an advance review copy of this book; I'm posting this review voluntarily.
Unsettling, dark, a bit terrifying - I don't know what this says about me that these descriptions were largely why I couldn't look away from the pages of Return to Water. It's been awhile since I've encountered a story of such writing calibre that I might classify it as literary perfection, something that vaguely reminded me of the awe I felt upon first discovering the macabre and chilling works of Edgar Allan Poe or Emily Dickinson more than 20 years ago as a college student studying classic literature.
With startling accuracy, the author's exquisite prose paints a depiction of scenes that leave me feeling as though I were right there with the main character Linnea as she progresses on her journey of discovering who and what she is. This isn't just a story about a woman who uncovers a lifetime of secrets. This is a tale of the lies we choose to believe about ourselves for the sake of staying comfortable, for the sake of not seeming "other" in a sea of similar faces. It's a tale of isolation and grief and the monsters we all carry deep within us that refuse to lie dormant when everything we thought we knew about ourselves comes crashing down.
This was an interesting take on hidden identity, the loss of one's humanity in the face of pain, nature's unsympathetic answer to balance and the fantastical horrors that could be found lurking in the unknown depths of the ocean, literally waiting to feed on our greatest vulnerabilities. In just 104 pages, Luna Asli Kolcu reminded me of why I fell in love with fiction writing so long ago, and that's why I could give nothing less to this little novella than 5 ⭐️'s.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing me with an advance review copy of this book; I'm posting this review voluntarily.
April 27, 2026
Return to Water by Luna Asli Kolcu originally caught my eye because of the main character's name, Linnea, which I've never seen used in an English language book before. That it is in one of my favorite genres and formats (horror short-story/novella) was just the icing on top. I thoroughly enjoyed the time I spent reading it and managed to stretch it out over two sessions, because it's a story you'll want to take your time with.
Linnea is a marine biologist who's never actually touches the ocean. It calls to her, but she feels that her carefully distanced study will keep the walls built up at bay. Our time with her starts with the death of her mother, and the discovery of secrets kept that will completely change her life. The reveal is not too much of a shock, considering well… the cover, the title, the genre, the author's provided summary but that doesn't lessen how engrossing and intriguing it is to unravel the mystery alongside Linnea.
I read and occasionally review a lot of romance, and I think this could qualify as "romantic sub-plot" but it definitely doesn't fit into the romance genre as there's no happily ever after into the sunset with a romantic partner. That wouldn't fit this book stylistically anyway. I still enjoyed the interactions between Linnea and her lab colleague even the subplot is more about showing what she was leaving behind. (A week later and I can't remember his name but he as a character is relatively unimportant to the journey, as compared with the idea of him).
5/5 nothing bugged me while reading and I really just enjoy Kolcu's prose and will continue to read everything she writes!
Thank you to booksirens and the author for providing the ARC; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Linnea is a marine biologist who's never actually touches the ocean. It calls to her, but she feels that her carefully distanced study will keep the walls built up at bay. Our time with her starts with the death of her mother, and the discovery of secrets kept that will completely change her life. The reveal is not too much of a shock, considering well… the cover, the title, the genre, the author's provided summary but that doesn't lessen how engrossing and intriguing it is to unravel the mystery alongside Linnea.
I read and occasionally review a lot of romance, and I think this could qualify as "romantic sub-plot" but it definitely doesn't fit into the romance genre as there's no happily ever after into the sunset with a romantic partner. That wouldn't fit this book stylistically anyway. I still enjoyed the interactions between Linnea and her lab colleague even the subplot is more about showing what she was leaving behind. (A week later and I can't remember his name but he as a character is relatively unimportant to the journey, as compared with the idea of him).
5/5 nothing bugged me while reading and I really just enjoy Kolcu's prose and will continue to read everything she writes!
Thank you to booksirens and the author for providing the ARC; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 12, 2026
The atmosphere in Return to Water is thick, mysterious, and beautifully dark. The lore surrounding water feels almost ancient and real, as though the author has always known these secrets and simply chose to share them with the reader. It creates a world that feels immersive without ever becoming overwhelming.
Luna Asli Kolcu’s prose is lyrical and haunting, yet refreshingly easy to read. Her writing carries a poetic quality without becoming dense or inaccessible, allowing the emotional core of the story to shine through. The fantasy concept itself is unique, but it also feels deeply thought-out and carefully researched, which makes the world-building especially convincing.
One of the strongest aspects of the novel is how Kolcu captures human emotion. She writes her characters’ inner thoughts with a raw honesty that feels deeply human. The bittersweet thread of unrequited love from Linnea’s colleague adds a quiet sadness to the story. Rather than making Linnea’s growth feel like a simple triumph, it frames it as something closer to sacrifice.
The novel’s tone is dark and reflective, but there’s also a sense of promise beneath it; fitting for a story rooted in nature and survival. It’s haunting, thoughtful, and emotionally resonant.
Did I enjoy this story? Absolutely. This is my second time reading Luna Asli Kolcu’s work, and once again she delivers something unusual and memorable. I highly recommend this strange, melancholic tale; just be prepared for a story that may leave you wanting more.
I received an advance copy of this book, and my review reflects my honest thoughts and impressions.
Luna Asli Kolcu’s prose is lyrical and haunting, yet refreshingly easy to read. Her writing carries a poetic quality without becoming dense or inaccessible, allowing the emotional core of the story to shine through. The fantasy concept itself is unique, but it also feels deeply thought-out and carefully researched, which makes the world-building especially convincing.
One of the strongest aspects of the novel is how Kolcu captures human emotion. She writes her characters’ inner thoughts with a raw honesty that feels deeply human. The bittersweet thread of unrequited love from Linnea’s colleague adds a quiet sadness to the story. Rather than making Linnea’s growth feel like a simple triumph, it frames it as something closer to sacrifice.
The novel’s tone is dark and reflective, but there’s also a sense of promise beneath it; fitting for a story rooted in nature and survival. It’s haunting, thoughtful, and emotionally resonant.
Did I enjoy this story? Absolutely. This is my second time reading Luna Asli Kolcu’s work, and once again she delivers something unusual and memorable. I highly recommend this strange, melancholic tale; just be prepared for a story that may leave you wanting more.
I received an advance copy of this book, and my review reflects my honest thoughts and impressions.
March 3, 2026
A Jewel Box of a Story!
I was captivated from the 3rd page! OK. While it might sound odd that it wasn’t the 1st page (like people normally say), there’s a reason. Luna Asli Kolcu is a new author for me, and I had no idea what to expect.
The first thing I noticed is that the language is exquisitely descriptive, and I was immediately apprehensive…
On the 1st page, I was wondering:
– Would this turn out to be an “artistic” book written with more concern for execution than story? As much as I enjoy a solid word picture, I read books for the stories!
– Was I reading the equivalent of a still-life painting? Was this book going to show me a bowl of fruit or a family laughing around a table with fruit on it?
I needn’t have worried. After a couple of pages, I was immersed in the story to the point that I wasn’t so much reading as observing. I was hooked. Return to Water is a book that’s meant to be experienced. And, if you’re like me, you’ll find that the contrast between your own emotional responses and Linnea's (the main character) will serve to emphasize the strangeness of the story as it unfolds. There's a lot here. Grief, love, cruelty, kindness, mystery, and myth. The fascinating way it all comes together in one person.
This book is a quick read that validates the adage that good things come in small packages. It’s a good story, beautifully written. Read it!
I received an advance review copy of this book. My review is voluntary and honest.
I was captivated from the 3rd page! OK. While it might sound odd that it wasn’t the 1st page (like people normally say), there’s a reason. Luna Asli Kolcu is a new author for me, and I had no idea what to expect.
The first thing I noticed is that the language is exquisitely descriptive, and I was immediately apprehensive…
On the 1st page, I was wondering:
– Would this turn out to be an “artistic” book written with more concern for execution than story? As much as I enjoy a solid word picture, I read books for the stories!
– Was I reading the equivalent of a still-life painting? Was this book going to show me a bowl of fruit or a family laughing around a table with fruit on it?
I needn’t have worried. After a couple of pages, I was immersed in the story to the point that I wasn’t so much reading as observing. I was hooked. Return to Water is a book that’s meant to be experienced. And, if you’re like me, you’ll find that the contrast between your own emotional responses and Linnea's (the main character) will serve to emphasize the strangeness of the story as it unfolds. There's a lot here. Grief, love, cruelty, kindness, mystery, and myth. The fascinating way it all comes together in one person.
This book is a quick read that validates the adage that good things come in small packages. It’s a good story, beautifully written. Read it!
I received an advance review copy of this book. My review is voluntary and honest.
May 21, 2026
I went into this book not really knowing what to expect. I had an idea based off the summary, but this book certainly exceeded my expectations. I was instantly thrown into a story about grief and morality.
The protagonist, Linnea, is in the middle of grieving her mother when strange occurrences start happening. Although we’re reading it from Linnea’s perspective, I often found it difficult to relate to her. She is cold and isolates herself from others, perhaps as a result of grief or maybe that is how she always is. Additionally, I found it difficult to explain her motives at some points. None of this is criticism about the character. I found it refreshing to read from the POV of someone who was so closed off and different from myself.
The writing itself was wonderful. The author wrote in such a beautiful, poetic way. I will admit it did catch me off guard sometimes, and I found myself rereading lines to make sense of what I just read. But those were few and far between. Overall, the author writes with such beautiful prose and it made for a very enjoying read.
The siren world created here was very unique and unlike anything I’d ever read about before. The story itself was fascinating, and the writing itself was lovely and pleasant to read. Overall, I would say this was a great read and would definitely recommend it to anyone interested.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The protagonist, Linnea, is in the middle of grieving her mother when strange occurrences start happening. Although we’re reading it from Linnea’s perspective, I often found it difficult to relate to her. She is cold and isolates herself from others, perhaps as a result of grief or maybe that is how she always is. Additionally, I found it difficult to explain her motives at some points. None of this is criticism about the character. I found it refreshing to read from the POV of someone who was so closed off and different from myself.
The writing itself was wonderful. The author wrote in such a beautiful, poetic way. I will admit it did catch me off guard sometimes, and I found myself rereading lines to make sense of what I just read. But those were few and far between. Overall, the author writes with such beautiful prose and it made for a very enjoying read.
The siren world created here was very unique and unlike anything I’d ever read about before. The story itself was fascinating, and the writing itself was lovely and pleasant to read. Overall, I would say this was a great read and would definitely recommend it to anyone interested.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 4, 2026
Shortly after her mother dies Linnea starts to experience some… unusual changes. First come the scales that emerge on her body. Google tells her it's probably just a skin condition, right? But soon the call of the ocean beckons Linnea. An ocean that her mother has always steered her clear of.
This was such an engaging little novella. I loved the sense of foreboding at the start of the story. It's clear that there's something amiss, and the body horror is effective without being overly visceral. The writing is lovely and does a great job at establishing atmosphere. I do think certain motifs became quite repetitive - like the lavender soap - but this doesn't take from an otherwise poetically and solidly written book.
I did have to slow down a little in the second half to understand properly the world that the author was building. I'm glad I did because I ended up so immersed in the harsh conditions that Linnea found herself in. The slow deterioration of her former self was as heart-breaking as it was inevitable.
It's quite a feat for a book so short to do as much as this one did. I really enjoyed this book, and look forward to reading more from this author.
~ I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily ~
This was such an engaging little novella. I loved the sense of foreboding at the start of the story. It's clear that there's something amiss, and the body horror is effective without being overly visceral. The writing is lovely and does a great job at establishing atmosphere. I do think certain motifs became quite repetitive - like the lavender soap - but this doesn't take from an otherwise poetically and solidly written book.
I did have to slow down a little in the second half to understand properly the world that the author was building. I'm glad I did because I ended up so immersed in the harsh conditions that Linnea found herself in. The slow deterioration of her former self was as heart-breaking as it was inevitable.
It's quite a feat for a book so short to do as much as this one did. I really enjoyed this book, and look forward to reading more from this author.
~ I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily ~
April 6, 2026
I really enjoyed Return to Water by Luna Asli Kolcu. The novel carries a dark, almost clinical tone that perfectly mirrors the main character’s mindset as a marine biologist. That scientific lens gives the story a unique texture—you’re not just reading fantasy, you’re experiencing it through someone trained to observe, analyze, and understand the natural world.
The writing itself is beautifully crafted, balancing lyrical moments with a quiet, underlying unease. It leans fully into dark fantasy, but what stood out most to me was the author’s take on sirens. Instead of romanticizing them, Kolcu presents a more unsettling, thought-provoking interpretation that feels grounded in biology as much as myth.
One of my favorite aspects was how seamlessly real-world marine issues are woven into the narrative. Themes like overfishing and coral reef destruction aren’t just background details—they add emotional weight and urgency, making the story feel both fantastical and relevant.
Overall, this is a haunting, intelligent read that blends science and dark fantasy in a way that feels fresh and deeply immersive.
The writing itself is beautifully crafted, balancing lyrical moments with a quiet, underlying unease. It leans fully into dark fantasy, but what stood out most to me was the author’s take on sirens. Instead of romanticizing them, Kolcu presents a more unsettling, thought-provoking interpretation that feels grounded in biology as much as myth.
One of my favorite aspects was how seamlessly real-world marine issues are woven into the narrative. Themes like overfishing and coral reef destruction aren’t just background details—they add emotional weight and urgency, making the story feel both fantastical and relevant.
Overall, this is a haunting, intelligent read that blends science and dark fantasy in a way that feels fresh and deeply immersive.
Read
April 7, 2026I really enjoyed Return to Water. It carries many of the hallmarks of body horror, yet it never fully feels like that - and I think that’s largely due to how the main character processes and handles what’s happening. Their perspective softens what could otherwise be deeply unsettling, creating a unique and engaging reading experience.
The writing style felt fresh and distinctive, with just the right touch of unease running beneath the surface. It manages to be both intriguing and slightly disturbing in a way that kept me hooked.
The only part that didn’t fully click for me at first was the beginning of the underwater passage, which felt a bit puzzling and hard to grasp. However, once I moved past that, the story really came together.
Overall, a memorable and enjoyable read that I’d definitely recommend - especially if you like stories that balance the strange with the strangely (non-)beautiful and don't mind the occasional mention of ecological facts.
Full disclosure: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The writing style felt fresh and distinctive, with just the right touch of unease running beneath the surface. It manages to be both intriguing and slightly disturbing in a way that kept me hooked.
The only part that didn’t fully click for me at first was the beginning of the underwater passage, which felt a bit puzzling and hard to grasp. However, once I moved past that, the story really came together.
Overall, a memorable and enjoyable read that I’d definitely recommend - especially if you like stories that balance the strange with the strangely (non-)beautiful and don't mind the occasional mention of ecological facts.
Full disclosure: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 20, 2026
The Return to Water
Luna Aslı Kolcu
** I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review **
Cela faisant longtemps que je n’avais pas lu un livre en un jour !
The Return to Water a capté mon attention, à tel point qu’il a été impossible de le lâcher.
The plot : Linnea Blackwood est une scientifique spécialisée dans l’étude des fonds marins. L’histoire commence alors qu’elle assiste aux funérailles de sa maman. A cette occasion, elle fait une étrange découverte qui la changera complètement. L’auteur nous décrit alors son parcours face à cette transformation qui ne se fera pas qu’au niveau physique.
Le style d’écriture était fort fluide et le vocabulaire choisi, en lien avec la mer et les océans, permet de se sentir en réelle connexion avec l’héroïne et son vécu, ceci dès les premières pages <3
Je recommande ce livre pour toute personne à la recherche d’un récit pas trop long, sombre et délicieusement poétique.
Luna Aslı Kolcu
** I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review **
Cela faisant longtemps que je n’avais pas lu un livre en un jour !
The Return to Water a capté mon attention, à tel point qu’il a été impossible de le lâcher.
The plot : Linnea Blackwood est une scientifique spécialisée dans l’étude des fonds marins. L’histoire commence alors qu’elle assiste aux funérailles de sa maman. A cette occasion, elle fait une étrange découverte qui la changera complètement. L’auteur nous décrit alors son parcours face à cette transformation qui ne se fera pas qu’au niveau physique.
Le style d’écriture était fort fluide et le vocabulaire choisi, en lien avec la mer et les océans, permet de se sentir en réelle connexion avec l’héroïne et son vécu, ceci dès les premières pages <3
Je recommande ce livre pour toute personne à la recherche d’un récit pas trop long, sombre et délicieusement poétique.
May 8, 2026
This offers a beautifully eerie take on the siren myth, wrapped in poetic prose that pulls you fully into its unsettling world. Kolcu’s writing is immersive and atmospheric, creating a constant sense of foreboding from the very first page. You feel that something is wrong and the slow unraveling that follows is both heartbreaking and inevitable.
The body horror is handled with restraint, making it all the more effective, while the tension and mystery keep the story gripping throughout. Though a few lines felt slightly repetitive, it doesn’t take away from the overall impact of the narrative. Linnea’s gradual loss of self is hauntingly portrayed, leaving a lasting emotional weight.
A short but powerful dark fantasy that lingers long after the final page.
Thank you to the author and Booksirens for the eARC, this is my honest review.
The body horror is handled with restraint, making it all the more effective, while the tension and mystery keep the story gripping throughout. Though a few lines felt slightly repetitive, it doesn’t take away from the overall impact of the narrative. Linnea’s gradual loss of self is hauntingly portrayed, leaving a lasting emotional weight.
A short but powerful dark fantasy that lingers long after the final page.
Thank you to the author and Booksirens for the eARC, this is my honest review.
April 1, 2026
Return to water is an enchanting thrill ride. Anything written about water definitely has its horror elements and this one is no different.
Margaret is doing everything in her power to raise Linnea and give her a good life in a sleepy coastal town. Linnea was a baby when she entered Margaret’s life and Margaret loved her from day one.
Linnea has grown up into a scientist who studies the tides and the abilities of the creatures within them. She is drawn to the sea but is unsure why. Margaret has been keeping a big secret from Linnea all her life. How will she react when she discovers the truth…her truth. Will she accept it or reject it?
This was a great horror story with a lot of mystery and suspense. I enjoyed reading it and finished it quickly. Check it out!
Margaret is doing everything in her power to raise Linnea and give her a good life in a sleepy coastal town. Linnea was a baby when she entered Margaret’s life and Margaret loved her from day one.
Linnea has grown up into a scientist who studies the tides and the abilities of the creatures within them. She is drawn to the sea but is unsure why. Margaret has been keeping a big secret from Linnea all her life. How will she react when she discovers the truth…her truth. Will she accept it or reject it?
This was a great horror story with a lot of mystery and suspense. I enjoyed reading it and finished it quickly. Check it out!
April 1, 2026
Return to water is an enchanting thrill ride. Anything written about water definitely has its horror elements and this one is no different.
Margaret is doing everything in her power to raise Linnea and give her a good life in a sleepy coastal town. Linnea was a baby when she entered Margaret’s life and Margaret loved her from day one.
Linnea has grown up into a scientist who studies the tides and the abilities of the creatures within them. She is drawn to the sea but is unsure why. Margaret has been keeping a big secret from Linnea all her life. How will she react when she discovers the truth… her truth. Will she accept it or reject it?
This was a great horror story with a lot of mystery and suspense. I enjoyed reading it and finished it quickly. Check it out!
Margaret is doing everything in her power to raise Linnea and give her a good life in a sleepy coastal town. Linnea was a baby when she entered Margaret’s life and Margaret loved her from day one.
Linnea has grown up into a scientist who studies the tides and the abilities of the creatures within them. She is drawn to the sea but is unsure why. Margaret has been keeping a big secret from Linnea all her life. How will she react when she discovers the truth… her truth. Will she accept it or reject it?
This was a great horror story with a lot of mystery and suspense. I enjoyed reading it and finished it quickly. Check it out!
Review of advance copy received from Author
There are some people who can sit down to a keyboard and the words just flow from them. I'm not one of them. I tell myself I'm not a writer, I'm a reader. And that is true. There's something about that white screen that just pushes the words right out of my head. So, that being said...I can say that this story tic's all of the boxes. It has mystery, pathos, fear, and wonder. Think Lovecraft, Poe, or Ambrose Bierce. As Hamlet said "There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio/ Than are dreamt of in your philosophy." Sometimes, we're not who people think we are. Sometimes, we're not who WE think we are.
April 2, 2026
Return to Water had a lot of potential. I loved the premise, and there's no denying the beauty that exists in every line. Kolcu has a sense of language that draws a reader into the moment that I really enjoyed.
However, I found the plot and characters underwhelming. There simply wasn't much development of either. The beauty of the language was lost as I tried to determine what, if anything, was happening from one chapter to the next.
It could have easily been a 5 star book if the characters had been fleshed out and time had been taken for world building and plot development.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
However, I found the plot and characters underwhelming. There simply wasn't much development of either. The beauty of the language was lost as I tried to determine what, if anything, was happening from one chapter to the next.
It could have easily been a 5 star book if the characters had been fleshed out and time had been taken for world building and plot development.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 12, 2026
3.5⭐️
This was a very interesting take on the siren myth. The writing drew me in right away. However, I had to get used to how abruptly the narrator’s thoughts or actions would change sometimes. While the story was interesting and engaging, I found the set up of the first part had me wishing for a horror twist that never came. I’m aware this wasn’t intended to be horror. It just felt like the set up to a horror story, and I found myself really wanting that. It left me a little disappointed as the story progressed as a modern fantasy.
If you’re looking for an aquatic fantasy and/or you enjoy stories about mermaids and sirens, I definitely think this novella is for you.
This was a very interesting take on the siren myth. The writing drew me in right away. However, I had to get used to how abruptly the narrator’s thoughts or actions would change sometimes. While the story was interesting and engaging, I found the set up of the first part had me wishing for a horror twist that never came. I’m aware this wasn’t intended to be horror. It just felt like the set up to a horror story, and I found myself really wanting that. It left me a little disappointed as the story progressed as a modern fantasy.
If you’re looking for an aquatic fantasy and/or you enjoy stories about mermaids and sirens, I definitely think this novella is for you.
May 9, 2026
It was a little bit of a slow start for me personally but once I got into the book I couldn't put it down. The language and imagery pulled me in. At first I thought it was all a metaphor for the narrators mom dieing and how when thay happens you lose yourself which I am all to familiar with. Once I realized the story took turn and involved something believe it or not I actually did not expect. I really liked the book, its definitely perfect to pick up for a quick read. Thank you booksirens.com for an opportunity to read a copy of this book in advance. Looking forward to reading this authors other work!
May 27, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book while had a strong plot and idea behing it leading to what could ahve been a lot of promise and hope for the story. The writing felt all over the place and skipped time at multiple points in the story because nothing was going on.
The FMC and side charictors felt flat and not a lot to them or their motivations. The world was very flat and felt like it was described to you by someone who hadn't even seen the world but it had been described for them.
The overall writing felt dull and lifeless and like their wasn't feeling behind the story.
The book while had a strong plot and idea behing it leading to what could ahve been a lot of promise and hope for the story. The writing felt all over the place and skipped time at multiple points in the story because nothing was going on.
The FMC and side charictors felt flat and not a lot to them or their motivations. The world was very flat and felt like it was described to you by someone who hadn't even seen the world but it had been described for them.
The overall writing felt dull and lifeless and like their wasn't feeling behind the story.
March 13, 2026
A 3 star rating for me means I didn’t love it, but I didn’t hate it and I wouldn’t dissuade others from reading it.
I typically read Fantasy and Romantasy and I just read for vibes rather than try to understand deeper meanings. This book would be enjoyed a lot more by someone who wants to uncover the hidden meanings and dive deeper into the lesson of the story.
I liked that it’s short and nothing drags on unnecessarily. I was able to finish this in just a few hours.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I typically read Fantasy and Romantasy and I just read for vibes rather than try to understand deeper meanings. This book would be enjoyed a lot more by someone who wants to uncover the hidden meanings and dive deeper into the lesson of the story.
I liked that it’s short and nothing drags on unnecessarily. I was able to finish this in just a few hours.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 4, 2026
I loved reading Return to Water! The writing itself is beautiful and evocative. The story is engaging from the beginning. Much like swimming in the ocean itself, the further you read in the book, the darker and more immersive it becomes. I enjoyed the juxtaposition of Linnea's science background and fantasy as she discovers more about her heritage. This is a unique book, but it's one that I highly recommend to readers who enjoy dark stories about fantastical creatures.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 9, 2026
This was definitely interesting. Its a unique spin on grief and coming into yourself. How grief can change you. The writing is beautiful. The world building and magic system is unique. I was slightly confused in the second half by some of the descriptions which is the only reason its not 5 stars. Its still a really great read. I finished it in one day! It delivers some soul crushing one liners. I look forward to reading more work from Luna Asli Kolcu.
I did receive this book from book sirens and am leaving my review voluntarily
I did receive this book from book sirens and am leaving my review voluntarily
March 2, 2026
I read this gem of a fantasy as a parable dealing with the suppression of our nature for adaptation, it's costs and consequences and the relief to be experienced if we find the courage to surrender to the pull of our origins towards the eternal balance of existence. Crafted in the author's unique style the story develops a dense, dark and unsettling atmosphere that kept me pondering beyond the final sentence ...
April 25, 2026
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free on BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A new take on the siren myth. Kolcu's writing is beautify, it flows across the page like poetry. I was immediately drawn in by the feel of the story and the evocative descriptions. As the story went on i struggled to connect to the main character, the writing started to overshadow the character development. I will defiantly be picking up more books by this author though.
A new take on the siren myth. Kolcu's writing is beautify, it flows across the page like poetry. I was immediately drawn in by the feel of the story and the evocative descriptions. As the story went on i struggled to connect to the main character, the writing started to overshadow the character development. I will defiantly be picking up more books by this author though.
March 2, 2026
A fantastic dark fantasy novella that borders on horror, with a plot that took a strange turn from normal conventions very early on yet swerved into a surprisingly emotional yet alien narrative with some blends of xenofiction and folklore, though some of its parts of the fantastical, particularly the first few dialogue of each character, can feel a bit wax poetic.
March 3, 2026
Return to Water may be a short story, but it absolutely lingers. It’s an eerie, haunting story that stays with you long after the last page. The writing is truly lovely — quiet, reflective, and beautifully atmospheric. Nothing feels rushed; instead, you’re allowed to just sit in the mood and emotion of it all. It’s subtle, immersive, and surprisingly powerful for such a brief read.
March 11, 2026
This was a really well written story. I enjoyed it but it did take me longer to read than I anticipated.
I was invested in the FMC and I loved seeing the science additions to this as someone who loves biology. The character voice was unique, and I seemed almost more fragmented later in the book.
Overall, this was a good read and I am so honored that I received an advanced reader's copy.
I was invested in the FMC and I loved seeing the science additions to this as someone who loves biology. The character voice was unique, and I seemed almost more fragmented later in the book.
Overall, this was a good read and I am so honored that I received an advanced reader's copy.
March 3, 2026
Review of advance copy received from author
I was blown away by how beautifully written this story is. In all my years of reading, I have never come across an author that can write like this.
Every detail that was describe was enticing. It made me want more.
I was blown away by how beautifully written this story is. In all my years of reading, I have never come across an author that can write like this.
Every detail that was describe was enticing. It made me want more.
March 3, 2026
What a novella!!! This story lingers well after it is finished, I absolutely love the eerie feeling I got while reading it. Luna is an amazing author and her stories have the tendency to haunt long after finishing. This is probably one of the best novellas I have read in a long time.
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