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Unmoored: A Seaside Gothic Siren Romance
Sirens, shipwrecks, and and a dubious Asylum intertwine in this paranormal romance set between the stormy cliffs of Victorian Britain and a rocky island off the coast of New England.
Following the untimely death of her mother, Hazel Emerson is accused of hysteria by her father. As one of the most powerful merchant moguls of their time, a daughter with such an affliction is a threat to his reputation, so he sends her off to the Akala Asylum. While en route, the ship encounters a most unfortunate fate, and Hazel is left floating in the depths of the Atlantic Ocean.
One day later, she wakes up on the shores of Akala, with only her nightgown and memories of a hauntingly beautiful sea creature rescuing her from the wreckage. For the next two years, she keeps the secret of the Talassi warrior who saved her life, but her loneliness and longing to be claimed by the ocean only grows.
Was it all a figment of her imagination? Did she hallucinate her rescue in the trauma of surviving a shipwreck? Or is there something deeper at play, calling her home to the abyss?
Following the untimely death of her mother, Hazel Emerson is accused of hysteria by her father. As one of the most powerful merchant moguls of their time, a daughter with such an affliction is a threat to his reputation, so he sends her off to the Akala Asylum. While en route, the ship encounters a most unfortunate fate, and Hazel is left floating in the depths of the Atlantic Ocean.
One day later, she wakes up on the shores of Akala, with only her nightgown and memories of a hauntingly beautiful sea creature rescuing her from the wreckage. For the next two years, she keeps the secret of the Talassi warrior who saved her life, but her loneliness and longing to be claimed by the ocean only grows.
Was it all a figment of her imagination? Did she hallucinate her rescue in the trauma of surviving a shipwreck? Or is there something deeper at play, calling her home to the abyss?
- GenresFantasy
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 7, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
August 7, 2026
🖤 Siren Romance
🧜♂️ Gothic Vibes
🖤 Freedom and Autonomy
🧜♂️ The Call of the Abyss
🖤 Lush Underwater World
Unmoored by Dahlia Jade is a lush, atmospheric blend of gothic paranormal romance and historical adventure fantasy. It’s a fast-paced, immersive read that pulls you into a sometimes dreary and sometimes magical oceanic world.
•
Hazel Emerson is sent away shortly after the passing of her mother to an island asylum under the label of "hysteria"—by a father who never wanted her. However, on the way to the foreboding island, her ship is caught in a wicked storm, tossing Hazel and the crew into the Atlantic Ocean. Following a dreamlike encounter in the water, she washes up on the shores of Akala Asylum, convinced a handsome siren male saved her life.
•
Told through dual POV, Unmoored blends paranormal romance and a gothic atmosphere into a story that feels like a fever dream. Hazel has nothing left to lose. Living in the Victorian era with a father who treats her like property, she spends her days dreaming of actual freedom. Her yearning for something greater and her draw to the ocean is palpable. Enter Draya—a siren male who can’t wrap his head around Hazel’s detached state and is somewhat puzzled by her clumsy humanity. Their dynamic is so much fun!
This book is so quotable, and Dahlia Jade explores themes of personal autonomy so well. Even through Hazel's detached state of existence, there’s a ferocity lurking beneath her skin. I loved Draya’s reactions to Hazel—this story contains that fun monster romance dynamic where the male lead is equal parts grossed out by human quirks and completely enamoured with the FMC.
It’s a quick, easy, and deeply atmospheric read. I loved the mix of genres, and the combination of sirens with a dark gothic setting is ~perfection~.
Thank you to the author, Dahlia Jade, for the ARC of this book. All thoughts and feedback in this review are my own.
•
Quotes:
"The vast ocean in front of me was haunting, beckoning me to slip back in. Seafoam danced at my feet, sparkling under the glow of the moonlight, but I pushed the longing thoughts away."
~
"For a split second, I wanted to consume her. I wanted to rush into the washroom and pull her under the water, sinking my teeth into her flesh and claiming her as my own. I longed to dig my claws into her skin, to feel every inch of her against my body and hear her cry out my name."
🧜♂️ Gothic Vibes
🖤 Freedom and Autonomy
🧜♂️ The Call of the Abyss
🖤 Lush Underwater World
Unmoored by Dahlia Jade is a lush, atmospheric blend of gothic paranormal romance and historical adventure fantasy. It’s a fast-paced, immersive read that pulls you into a sometimes dreary and sometimes magical oceanic world.
•
Hazel Emerson is sent away shortly after the passing of her mother to an island asylum under the label of "hysteria"—by a father who never wanted her. However, on the way to the foreboding island, her ship is caught in a wicked storm, tossing Hazel and the crew into the Atlantic Ocean. Following a dreamlike encounter in the water, she washes up on the shores of Akala Asylum, convinced a handsome siren male saved her life.
•
Told through dual POV, Unmoored blends paranormal romance and a gothic atmosphere into a story that feels like a fever dream. Hazel has nothing left to lose. Living in the Victorian era with a father who treats her like property, she spends her days dreaming of actual freedom. Her yearning for something greater and her draw to the ocean is palpable. Enter Draya—a siren male who can’t wrap his head around Hazel’s detached state and is somewhat puzzled by her clumsy humanity. Their dynamic is so much fun!
This book is so quotable, and Dahlia Jade explores themes of personal autonomy so well. Even through Hazel's detached state of existence, there’s a ferocity lurking beneath her skin. I loved Draya’s reactions to Hazel—this story contains that fun monster romance dynamic where the male lead is equal parts grossed out by human quirks and completely enamoured with the FMC.
It’s a quick, easy, and deeply atmospheric read. I loved the mix of genres, and the combination of sirens with a dark gothic setting is ~perfection~.
Thank you to the author, Dahlia Jade, for the ARC of this book. All thoughts and feedback in this review are my own.
•
Quotes:
"The vast ocean in front of me was haunting, beckoning me to slip back in. Seafoam danced at my feet, sparkling under the glow of the moonlight, but I pushed the longing thoughts away."
~
"For a split second, I wanted to consume her. I wanted to rush into the washroom and pull her under the water, sinking my teeth into her flesh and claiming her as my own. I longed to dig my claws into her skin, to feel every inch of her against my body and hear her cry out my name."
August 13, 2026
"We were two hopeless creatures, lost and lonely, fighting for a chance to be seen and understood, and I desperately wanted to give in."
July 2, 2026
It’s a hot siren gothic seaside summer with Unmoored publishing August 7th!
Set in the 1870’s, Hazel Emerson has been accused of hysteria following her mother’s death by her absent, horrible, ship-merchant father and sent off to the Akala Asylum, located on the rocky cliffs of an island in the Atlantic. She arrives certain that she was thrown off the ship and saved by what she only knows as myth, a male Talassi warrior. But as her “treatments” persist and her mental state begins to fray she questions if he was just a dream.
Dahlia delivered such a wonderful standalone that makes for a quick read! Light enough in world building that it wasn’t daunting to get into, yet enough story around our FMC to immerse us into her conflicts of the story. It made the ending and everything she went through + gained all the more satisfying. The atmosphere was dreary and stormy, yet magical and enchanting in our time spent under the ocean. Love that there will be more to come in this world centering a different set of MCs (Maki maybe 👀??!)
~huge thank you to the author for the eARC, all thoughts within this review are my own~
Set in the 1870’s, Hazel Emerson has been accused of hysteria following her mother’s death by her absent, horrible, ship-merchant father and sent off to the Akala Asylum, located on the rocky cliffs of an island in the Atlantic. She arrives certain that she was thrown off the ship and saved by what she only knows as myth, a male Talassi warrior. But as her “treatments” persist and her mental state begins to fray she questions if he was just a dream.
Dahlia delivered such a wonderful standalone that makes for a quick read! Light enough in world building that it wasn’t daunting to get into, yet enough story around our FMC to immerse us into her conflicts of the story. It made the ending and everything she went through + gained all the more satisfying. The atmosphere was dreary and stormy, yet magical and enchanting in our time spent under the ocean. Love that there will be more to come in this world centering a different set of MCs (Maki maybe 👀??!)
~huge thank you to the author for the eARC, all thoughts within this review are my own~
August 11, 2026
Oh my gods did I love this book.
After the passing of her mother, Hazel is sent away by her horrible father to an asylum on an island after being diagnosed with hysteria. Along the way, her ship encounters a storm, destroying the ship and leaving Hazel for dead. That is, until a mysterious savior pulls her from her certain death.
Hazel has all but given up after suffering at the hands of her father, but underneath her skin lurks a fierceness waiting to be uncovered. Draya can see it too, and despite despising Hazel and her human counterparts, he risks it all to help her uncover the truth.
I related so hard to Hazel, her sheer desperation to be worth more than what her father saw in her brought me to tears more than once. I absolutely loved Draya and Hazel’s dynamic and was itching for more every time I turned the page. Dahlia’s writing is so immersive, I found myself holding my breath as if I too were under water. The magic system is so unique, I absolutely loved reading about it.
This was a fantastic short, summer read, even though I would have been content to ready 400 more pages about them!
After the passing of her mother, Hazel is sent away by her horrible father to an asylum on an island after being diagnosed with hysteria. Along the way, her ship encounters a storm, destroying the ship and leaving Hazel for dead. That is, until a mysterious savior pulls her from her certain death.
Hazel has all but given up after suffering at the hands of her father, but underneath her skin lurks a fierceness waiting to be uncovered. Draya can see it too, and despite despising Hazel and her human counterparts, he risks it all to help her uncover the truth.
I related so hard to Hazel, her sheer desperation to be worth more than what her father saw in her brought me to tears more than once. I absolutely loved Draya and Hazel’s dynamic and was itching for more every time I turned the page. Dahlia’s writing is so immersive, I found myself holding my breath as if I too were under water. The magic system is so unique, I absolutely loved reading about it.
This was a fantastic short, summer read, even though I would have been content to ready 400 more pages about them!
August 6, 2026
When her mother dies, Hazel’s heartless father decides to shamelessly get rid of her by claiming hysteria, sending her to an asylum across the ocean. On the ship, she is mercilessly thrown into the drowning depths under the name of witchcraft. Only, she is rescued by Draya, a Thalassi folk, drastically changing her life with the truths she will discover with his help, finding herself along the way.
The coastal atmosphere was indeed eerie and heavy, which I was fond of. Paired with the asylum, it was haunting. The vibes of Unmoored were quite interesting, they delivered, not to mention Draya’s home where it could even feel claustrophobic at times.
Hazel and Draya’s love story was a little too quick for my liking, and the plot went by so fast, there was a lot to unpack and I would’ve liked for it to be less superficially introduced. With that being said, there were quite the twists and turns, adding dimension to the plot and quickening the pace.
Thank you to Dahlia Jade for the arc.
3 stars
A little spice
Keywords: 1800s, grief, deep sea, asylum, mermaids, humans, trade routes, corruption.
The coastal atmosphere was indeed eerie and heavy, which I was fond of. Paired with the asylum, it was haunting. The vibes of Unmoored were quite interesting, they delivered, not to mention Draya’s home where it could even feel claustrophobic at times.
Hazel and Draya’s love story was a little too quick for my liking, and the plot went by so fast, there was a lot to unpack and I would’ve liked for it to be less superficially introduced. With that being said, there were quite the twists and turns, adding dimension to the plot and quickening the pace.
Thank you to Dahlia Jade for the arc.
3 stars
A little spice
Keywords: 1800s, grief, deep sea, asylum, mermaids, humans, trade routes, corruption.
August 7, 2026
A stunning gothic tale that hooks you with mysterious allure and guides you along like a comforting sea shanty.
I quite literally begged to read the ARC of Unmoored because its release date shared my birthday (August 7th), and let me tell you it didn’t disappoint! I truly felt engaged with the story the entire way through, desperate to find out what would happen next and how the tale would unfold. In the end, I found myself adoring every second that I spent in the pages of this novel, and hope you do as well 💗
Star Rating: 6/5 (Give me more stars goodreads)
Scent Vibe: Salty Sea Water, Linen, Hemp Ropes, Rust
Nicknames: Love 🥹
*This is a review of the Advanced Reader’s Copy which was given in return for an honest review.
I quite literally begged to read the ARC of Unmoored because its release date shared my birthday (August 7th), and let me tell you it didn’t disappoint! I truly felt engaged with the story the entire way through, desperate to find out what would happen next and how the tale would unfold. In the end, I found myself adoring every second that I spent in the pages of this novel, and hope you do as well 💗
Star Rating: 6/5 (Give me more stars goodreads)
Scent Vibe: Salty Sea Water, Linen, Hemp Ropes, Rust
Nicknames: Love 🥹
*This is a review of the Advanced Reader’s Copy which was given in return for an honest review.
July 31, 2026
What an adventure into this seaside gothic siren romance! It was such a good lil snack and I enjoyed it so much. Hazel’s journey from helpless to not so helpless was invigorating and I loved loved Draya,the MMC. You can really see Dahlia’s growth as a writer in this book and I enjoyed the style very much. Who knew I was a slut for gothic sirens?! Anyway. Pick this one up, you won’t regret it!
~thank you to Dahlia Jade for an eARC of Unmoored! All opinions are my own~
~thank you to Dahlia Jade for an eARC of Unmoored! All opinions are my own~
August 11, 2026
This was phenomenal, and the story has sat with me since I finished it. This really had everything I could possibly want, and the fact it was all handled so well and still a somewhat short novel is a testament to how well Dahlia writes.
The world building and magic system was fully fleshed out and interesting, and I loved learning about these creatures. The thing our FMC had to endure was heartbreaking. I was rooting for all of our main characters and I can’t wait to see where we go next in this world.
The world building and magic system was fully fleshed out and interesting, and I loved learning about these creatures. The thing our FMC had to endure was heartbreaking. I was rooting for all of our main characters and I can’t wait to see where we go next in this world.
June 24, 2026
ARC review:
Finished this in less than a day. I was obsessed with the dark, gothic aspect of this book. The pacing was great and the story concluded in only 260 pages! I also LOVED the plot twist at the end and was not expecting it. This is a gothic standalone but the author is going to be writing more in this universe. I’m excited to see what’s next!
Finished this in less than a day. I was obsessed with the dark, gothic aspect of this book. The pacing was great and the story concluded in only 260 pages! I also LOVED the plot twist at the end and was not expecting it. This is a gothic standalone but the author is going to be writing more in this universe. I’m excited to see what’s next!
August 9, 2026
A seaside gothic romance? Say less. This book had everything from a gloomy and bleak atmosphere, to an enchanting and magical underwater world. There was trauma, healing, plot, some spice, and a truly vile villain to root against. If you’re a fan of Emma Hamm, you will love this book!
August 7, 2026
Genuinely LOVED this. Hazels story was so layered and compelling and Dahlia really elicited a deep connection to her in a short amount of time!
August 22, 2026
This was entertaining for sureeeee!
I love Hazel, the sweet girl. Desperate for a different life, she stepped willingly into an asylum where while still a cruel existence, at least she was no longer at the mercy of her father. Her diary entries tug at you and wish better for her while she's trying to figure out if she really belongs there or if her mind has truly broken.
I love Hazel, the sweet girl. Desperate for a different life, she stepped willingly into an asylum where while still a cruel existence, at least she was no longer at the mercy of her father. Her diary entries tug at you and wish better for her while she's trying to figure out if she really belongs there or if her mind has truly broken.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
“Unmoored” by Dahlia Jade is a dark, gothic romance where mermaids exist and are exploited by the humans who know they exist. This gothic horror explores themes of mental health, isolation, power, and corruption while depicting human greed and the lengths people go to for love and revenge.
After her mother’s death, Hazel Emerson is diagnosed with hysteria by her father. As one of the most powerful and well-known merchant moguls of their time, having a daughter with such a serious disposition can ruin his reputation. Hazel is then shipped off to a remote island where the Akala Asylum is located, but en route, a tragedy strikes and the boat sinks. Hazel is the only survivor, having awoken on the shores of Akala with only the memories of a beautiful sea creature having rescued her from the wreckage.
For two years, she keeps the secret of who and what saved her a secret until eventually she begins to doubt herself and what really happened, especially under the duress of her treatments. Yet, she can’t deny the unwavering pull she feels to the ocean, and she is left wondering whether she’s completely lost her sanity or if there is a reason behind the strong magnetization calling her out to sea.
“Unmoored” is a story that immediately sweeps the reader away on the first page, drawing one into the Emerson family drama before Hazel is ultimately shepherded onto a ship that binds her to her fate. From then on, there is a very dark and disturbing insight into what women who, during the time period, must’ve faced when they were sent off to asylums to treat their hysteria. Likely some of the treatments are not one hundred percent accurate, but one can only imagine what a bleak and horrific experience it was for the women to endure. In “Unmoored” specifically, readers are immersed in Hazel’s slow descent into madness and depression as her time at the asylum leaves her isolated, lonely, and questioning her own sanity.
The mystery behind the handsome creature who saved her (and whether they truly exist) creates a lot of tension and intrigue throughout the story as readers begin to question whether Hazel is a reliable narrator or whether there is more hidden in the depths of the sea than people realize. The world-building was well done and interspersed throughout the story, guiding the reader through the world without them feeling lost or confused.
Despite the dark themes, this was a lighter read than I expected in the sense that it didn’t delve too much into detail about certain topics for it to feel realistic. Overall, the story is entertaining and easy to dive into, but a little more depth into certain parts of the story would’ve made the experience more immersive and tangible for me. I still highly recommend this to all readers who are interested in this book; it just didn't meet my expectations, and that is okay.
A big thank you and much appreciation to the author Dahlia Jade for providing me with a free e-arc of this book for me to read and to share my honest opinion in this review. “Unmoored” is out August 7th, 2026! Add it to your reading lists and be sure to give it a read upon publication!
After her mother’s death, Hazel Emerson is diagnosed with hysteria by her father. As one of the most powerful and well-known merchant moguls of their time, having a daughter with such a serious disposition can ruin his reputation. Hazel is then shipped off to a remote island where the Akala Asylum is located, but en route, a tragedy strikes and the boat sinks. Hazel is the only survivor, having awoken on the shores of Akala with only the memories of a beautiful sea creature having rescued her from the wreckage.
For two years, she keeps the secret of who and what saved her a secret until eventually she begins to doubt herself and what really happened, especially under the duress of her treatments. Yet, she can’t deny the unwavering pull she feels to the ocean, and she is left wondering whether she’s completely lost her sanity or if there is a reason behind the strong magnetization calling her out to sea.
“Unmoored” is a story that immediately sweeps the reader away on the first page, drawing one into the Emerson family drama before Hazel is ultimately shepherded onto a ship that binds her to her fate. From then on, there is a very dark and disturbing insight into what women who, during the time period, must’ve faced when they were sent off to asylums to treat their hysteria. Likely some of the treatments are not one hundred percent accurate, but one can only imagine what a bleak and horrific experience it was for the women to endure. In “Unmoored” specifically, readers are immersed in Hazel’s slow descent into madness and depression as her time at the asylum leaves her isolated, lonely, and questioning her own sanity.
The mystery behind the handsome creature who saved her (and whether they truly exist) creates a lot of tension and intrigue throughout the story as readers begin to question whether Hazel is a reliable narrator or whether there is more hidden in the depths of the sea than people realize. The world-building was well done and interspersed throughout the story, guiding the reader through the world without them feeling lost or confused.
Despite the dark themes, this was a lighter read than I expected in the sense that it didn’t delve too much into detail about certain topics for it to feel realistic. Overall, the story is entertaining and easy to dive into, but a little more depth into certain parts of the story would’ve made the experience more immersive and tangible for me. I still highly recommend this to all readers who are interested in this book; it just didn't meet my expectations, and that is okay.
A big thank you and much appreciation to the author Dahlia Jade for providing me with a free e-arc of this book for me to read and to share my honest opinion in this review. “Unmoored” is out August 7th, 2026! Add it to your reading lists and be sure to give it a read upon publication!
August 23, 2026
Overall, this was a fun read, with a super cool premise that honestly, at first glance, seemed uniquely tailored to my tastes and interests. Gothic vibes + a sketchy asylum + Victorian era + sea people + romance? So awesome.
The undersea setting and accompanying descriptions were very fun, even immersive at times. It's nice to see some beautiful descriptions of fantastical places.
Individually, I liked Hazel and Draya as characters; together, I didn't quite buy the love story at the pace in which it was presented. Many times throughout the novel, both characters state or think something to the effect of "I don't understand why I'm drawn to him/her" or "I don't know why I said that" or "I'm confused." To be honest, so was I. Draya seems largely repulsed and/or annoyed by Hazel for a good chunk of the book. For example, take these quotes: "The irritation written all over her face only made me ravenous for more of her angst" (Ch. 29) and "That instinct inside of me that yearned to antagonize Hazel and play with her like a pet…" (Ch. 33). He then gets over this very suddenly so the romantic storyline can progress.
Hazel is sweet as the FMC, but she is extremely modern coded, which was jarring: the majority of the story is set in 1879. She and Draya both commit "therapy speak" at various points, but Hazel specifically is the one to mention "compartmentaliz[ing her] trauma," which uses such specific modern psychological jargon that it took me right out the story in that moment. Again, it 1879. The story tells us repeatedly she has no agency, but her self-assuredness (in certain/selective aspects of her personality) and strong intrapersonal/emotional intelligence beg to differ. This is not to say she was a bad or unlikeable character; I liked her quite a lot. However, simply put, she was not believable as a Victorian heroine.
(***I will add here that the author included a note on historical accuracy at the beginning of the book, stating that precise historical accuracy was not a goal of this story and liberties were taken with the time period and some geopolitical aspects of the text.)
Unmoored explores such a fascinating setting, fun concept, and a really compelling fictional species, and it was lovely to see Dahlia Jade's take on sirens/merpeople, Gothic storytelling, corruption, and trauma. I'm certainly interested in how she expands this universe and tackles more important thematic elements in her future novels.
The undersea setting and accompanying descriptions were very fun, even immersive at times. It's nice to see some beautiful descriptions of fantastical places.
Individually, I liked Hazel and Draya as characters; together, I didn't quite buy the love story at the pace in which it was presented. Many times throughout the novel, both characters state or think something to the effect of "I don't understand why I'm drawn to him/her" or "I don't know why I said that" or "I'm confused." To be honest, so was I. Draya seems largely repulsed and/or annoyed by Hazel for a good chunk of the book. For example, take these quotes: "The irritation written all over her face only made me ravenous for more of her angst" (Ch. 29) and "That instinct inside of me that yearned to antagonize Hazel and play with her like a pet…" (Ch. 33). He then gets over this very suddenly so the romantic storyline can progress.
Hazel is sweet as the FMC, but she is extremely modern coded, which was jarring: the majority of the story is set in 1879. She and Draya both commit "therapy speak" at various points, but Hazel specifically is the one to mention "compartmentaliz[ing her] trauma," which uses such specific modern psychological jargon that it took me right out the story in that moment. Again, it 1879. The story tells us repeatedly she has no agency, but her self-assuredness (in certain/selective aspects of her personality) and strong intrapersonal/emotional intelligence beg to differ. This is not to say she was a bad or unlikeable character; I liked her quite a lot. However, simply put, she was not believable as a Victorian heroine.
(***I will add here that the author included a note on historical accuracy at the beginning of the book, stating that precise historical accuracy was not a goal of this story and liberties were taken with the time period and some geopolitical aspects of the text.)
Unmoored explores such a fascinating setting, fun concept, and a really compelling fictional species, and it was lovely to see Dahlia Jade's take on sirens/merpeople, Gothic storytelling, corruption, and trauma. I'm certainly interested in how she expands this universe and tackles more important thematic elements in her future novels.
August 13, 2026
“You’re an interesting phenomenon, Miss Emerson,” I said, backing up towards the doorway. “And I intend to figure you out.”
The gothic, seaside vibes in this book are perfect. Hazel Emerson, only daughter to Lord Emerson, is sent to a remote island where Akala Asylum resides after being deemed hysteric after her mother’s death. On the way there, she is tied up, thrown overboard, and found sinking deep in the water where no human should be able to survive. Draya, a Talassi warrior (imagine something that looks like a siren), sees her in the water and goes to move her body to a coral reef for a resting place. Except, Hazel’s hair is glowing and she’s definitely not alive, right? (She totally is)
I liked the atmosphere of this book a lot. The gothic vibes of the asylum, the darkness that happens in there, and the things Hazel goes through really made me feel for her. I loved her as a character and thought she was incredibly relatable.
I felt like Hazel and Draya’s love story moved a little too quickly for me. He was so hot and cold between finding her beautiful and being disgusted with her that I was thrown off by the love confession. I can definitely see where Hazel’s love came from, how it grew, and how she felt about it. Draya, on the other hand, I was convinced wasn’t even going to be the love interest for a minute.
I really enjoyed the depiction of the Talassian capital and their homes. The volcano was described so vividly and I loved how each Talassi character really had their own personality shine through. I was a little confused on the plot - especially regarding their mission and Lord Emerson - since it didn’t seem believable that Hazel would have even an inkling of that information. Not after being neglected by her father for years, sent to an asylum for two years, and then everything that came next. I don’t think it would’ve bothered me much if it wasn’t such a key plot point in the book.
Overall, I enjoyed the gothic seaside vibes of this book and the depictions of the places. It’s an incredibly atmospheric read, but I wasn’t in love with the love story or some plot points.
The gothic, seaside vibes in this book are perfect. Hazel Emerson, only daughter to Lord Emerson, is sent to a remote island where Akala Asylum resides after being deemed hysteric after her mother’s death. On the way there, she is tied up, thrown overboard, and found sinking deep in the water where no human should be able to survive. Draya, a Talassi warrior (imagine something that looks like a siren), sees her in the water and goes to move her body to a coral reef for a resting place. Except, Hazel’s hair is glowing and she’s definitely not alive, right? (She totally is)
I liked the atmosphere of this book a lot. The gothic vibes of the asylum, the darkness that happens in there, and the things Hazel goes through really made me feel for her. I loved her as a character and thought she was incredibly relatable.
I felt like Hazel and Draya’s love story moved a little too quickly for me. He was so hot and cold between finding her beautiful and being disgusted with her that I was thrown off by the love confession. I can definitely see where Hazel’s love came from, how it grew, and how she felt about it. Draya, on the other hand, I was convinced wasn’t even going to be the love interest for a minute.
I really enjoyed the depiction of the Talassian capital and their homes. The volcano was described so vividly and I loved how each Talassi character really had their own personality shine through. I was a little confused on the plot - especially regarding their mission and Lord Emerson - since it didn’t seem believable that Hazel would have even an inkling of that information. Not after being neglected by her father for years, sent to an asylum for two years, and then everything that came next. I don’t think it would’ve bothered me much if it wasn’t such a key plot point in the book.
Overall, I enjoyed the gothic seaside vibes of this book and the depictions of the places. It’s an incredibly atmospheric read, but I wasn’t in love with the love story or some plot points.
August 7, 2026
Thank you to the author for the free advanced copy - all thoughts and opinions are my own!
This definitely satisfied my yearning to read a gothic romance (I didn’t know that I needed a siren-like MMC until this book!) and if you like dark settings like a stormy sea, insane asylums, and vastly cool underwater cities, then I think you will really enjoy Unmoored! Our main characters Hazel and Draya are both complex and have their flaws, which I appreciate in any story because we all are complex and imperfect, but they also just make sense together. Hazel goes through some really horrific and traumatizing things and there were times when my heart was breaking for her 😢 (Check TW and CW because there are some really heavy issues in this book that may not be for every reader!) But I loved how Draya encourages her to keep going and is there for her even when he doesn’t understand all that she has gone through.
If you are looking for a book that will make you feel dark and stormy with some gothic romance to make you believe that every dark cloud will eventually be pierced with a ray of sunlight, then you need to check out Unmoored!
This definitely satisfied my yearning to read a gothic romance (I didn’t know that I needed a siren-like MMC until this book!) and if you like dark settings like a stormy sea, insane asylums, and vastly cool underwater cities, then I think you will really enjoy Unmoored! Our main characters Hazel and Draya are both complex and have their flaws, which I appreciate in any story because we all are complex and imperfect, but they also just make sense together. Hazel goes through some really horrific and traumatizing things and there were times when my heart was breaking for her 😢 (Check TW and CW because there are some really heavy issues in this book that may not be for every reader!) But I loved how Draya encourages her to keep going and is there for her even when he doesn’t understand all that she has gone through.
If you are looking for a book that will make you feel dark and stormy with some gothic romance to make you believe that every dark cloud will eventually be pierced with a ray of sunlight, then you need to check out Unmoored!
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 rounded up to a 4.
On her way Akala Asylum after her father determines she has hysteria, Hazel finds herself the sole survivor of a ship wreckage saved by a creature of legend, a Talassi. With no where else to go, she is taken to the asylum where she grapples with what is real and what isn’t, holding out for her Talassi savior to reappear and save her from the corrupt asylum.
The situation Hazel finds herself in was curious, and kept me reaching for the book to see where it went. It felt like reading a journal or similar to watching a movie where there is a recounting of an event, while showing it as present time.
I felt like some of the relationships between the main and side characters were a bit under represented. I feel like with more relationship development certain plot points would have hit harder for me emotionally.
This book is for you if you like gothic seaside settings, unreliable narrators, internal monologues, FMC that grow into their strengths, and unique takes on siren like creatures.
On her way Akala Asylum after her father determines she has hysteria, Hazel finds herself the sole survivor of a ship wreckage saved by a creature of legend, a Talassi. With no where else to go, she is taken to the asylum where she grapples with what is real and what isn’t, holding out for her Talassi savior to reappear and save her from the corrupt asylum.
The situation Hazel finds herself in was curious, and kept me reaching for the book to see where it went. It felt like reading a journal or similar to watching a movie where there is a recounting of an event, while showing it as present time.
I felt like some of the relationships between the main and side characters were a bit under represented. I feel like with more relationship development certain plot points would have hit harder for me emotionally.
This book is for you if you like gothic seaside settings, unreliable narrators, internal monologues, FMC that grow into their strengths, and unique takes on siren like creatures.
July 2, 2026
holy cow. where do i even start. Unmoored is by far in my top 5 books i have read this year. i also don’t know how, but each time i read a book by Dahlia Jade, it becomes my new favorite book by her.
Unmoored follows Hazel, a young woman who has had a rough life from the start. her father ends up sending to her insane asylum due to “hysteria ”, but on the way there is a shipwreck and she is rescued by Draya, a beautiful sea creature. she ends up thinking it was all made up and that she imagined it. will they meet again? i guess you gotta read it to find out😏
also, Dahlia always blows me away with her world building. each page i could picture myself in the scene, or smelling what she was describing, or feeling what they are touching. and i think that is such a testament to how well she writes. i am so glad that we will get to come back to this universe at some point.
thank you so much for the e-arc!!
Unmoored follows Hazel, a young woman who has had a rough life from the start. her father ends up sending to her insane asylum due to “hysteria ”, but on the way there is a shipwreck and she is rescued by Draya, a beautiful sea creature. she ends up thinking it was all made up and that she imagined it. will they meet again? i guess you gotta read it to find out😏
also, Dahlia always blows me away with her world building. each page i could picture myself in the scene, or smelling what she was describing, or feeling what they are touching. and i think that is such a testament to how well she writes. i am so glad that we will get to come back to this universe at some point.
thank you so much for the e-arc!!
August 4, 2026
✨✨ARC REVIEW✨✨
Yall remember Jane from Twilight and how she would say “pain” and it would cause people an insane amount of pain? I imagine that’s what Dahlia was doing when she wrote this book because this book was PAIN at times 😅 I’m talking one chapter in and I was like “fuck I am so sad for this girl”. Dahlia does make up for it and the FMC gets a well deserved HEA with a sexy siren man 😩🤌
I really love the gothic atmosphere in this book! Also the MMC A HAS A HOOK ON HIS WEINER??!! Insane! Delightful! Might be better than a knot imo!
Also I loved how this is a enemies to lovers story and it’s kinda of a reverse little mermaid when you think about it because the FMC starts living amongst the sirens instead of wanting to be on land?? Does that make sense idk I’m writing this review on little sleep. All together I love this book and you can too! Go get yourself a copy of Unmoored okay? Okay. Bye
Yall remember Jane from Twilight and how she would say “pain” and it would cause people an insane amount of pain? I imagine that’s what Dahlia was doing when she wrote this book because this book was PAIN at times 😅 I’m talking one chapter in and I was like “fuck I am so sad for this girl”. Dahlia does make up for it and the FMC gets a well deserved HEA with a sexy siren man 😩🤌
I really love the gothic atmosphere in this book! Also the MMC A HAS A HOOK ON HIS WEINER??!! Insane! Delightful! Might be better than a knot imo!
Also I loved how this is a enemies to lovers story and it’s kinda of a reverse little mermaid when you think about it because the FMC starts living amongst the sirens instead of wanting to be on land?? Does that make sense idk I’m writing this review on little sleep. All together I love this book and you can too! Go get yourself a copy of Unmoored okay? Okay. Bye
Review of advance copy
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review (thank you BookFunnel). ’Unmoored' surprised me. I never know what to expect with ARCs. Some end up delivering on their interesting premises, whereas others fail miserably. That's the nature of books in general, but given the unpolished nature of most ARCs, I try not to get my hopes up too much in terms of quality. However, almost immediately, I found myself immersed in the story of 'Unmoored'.
Most of the time, I read a book in roughly a day or two, depending on length and level of interest. In this case, I read the entire book in one sitting, never putting it down. I loved the characters. I enjoyed the darker elements. I delighted at the unfolding romance between Hazel and Draya. Was it perfect? No, but its rougher edges never grated enough to derail my suspension of disbelief.
I'll definitely be following Dahlia Jade's career going forward. Her writing is good, and I imagine it'll only get better with time.
Most of the time, I read a book in roughly a day or two, depending on length and level of interest. In this case, I read the entire book in one sitting, never putting it down. I loved the characters. I enjoyed the darker elements. I delighted at the unfolding romance between Hazel and Draya. Was it perfect? No, but its rougher edges never grated enough to derail my suspension of disbelief.
I'll definitely be following Dahlia Jade's career going forward. Her writing is good, and I imagine it'll only get better with time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I ate this book up! This was my first time reading anything by Dahlia Jade and definitely won’t be the last! I was hooked when I saw this was a gothic seaside romance set in late 1800s Britain/ New England. I absolutely loved this book it was dark, mysterious, spicy, and fast paced. The FMC Hazels hysteria and insanity had me second guessing where the plot was headed and kept my interest peaked. The MMC Draya was really a really cool character I loved the dynamic of his and Hazels relationship. His internal struggle of wanting Hazel but she’s his enemies daughter gave a little bit of a forbidden romance feel in the beginning. The World building was great not too heavy easy to understand and imagine.
I’m so excited that there will be another book in this universe.
Thank you Dahlia Jade for the ARC
I’m so excited that there will be another book in this universe.
Thank you Dahlia Jade for the ARC
August 13, 2026
“I want to consume you, but at the same time I want to worship you.”
I had the distinct honor of reading an early draft of Unmoored, and it’s safe to say that this spooky gothic monster romance is Dahlia Jade’s best and most confident book yet <3
Richly layered, moody, dark, and unapologetically sexy, Unmoored was so mysterious and compelling I tore through it as fast as my little eyeballs could carry me. Decidedly not a cozy monster romance, like everything Jade writes Unmoored is action-packed and unflinching and did I mention dark AF?
Left me gasping and clutching my pearls with every turn.
Frankly it’s a little traumatizing, but I’m obviously into that shit. Gimme. <3
I had the distinct honor of reading an early draft of Unmoored, and it’s safe to say that this spooky gothic monster romance is Dahlia Jade’s best and most confident book yet <3
Richly layered, moody, dark, and unapologetically sexy, Unmoored was so mysterious and compelling I tore through it as fast as my little eyeballs could carry me. Decidedly not a cozy monster romance, like everything Jade writes Unmoored is action-packed and unflinching and did I mention dark AF?
Left me gasping and clutching my pearls with every turn.
Frankly it’s a little traumatizing, but I’m obviously into that shit. Gimme. <3
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced copy rec’vd from author.
I loved this book.
Storyline/Plot - 5⭐️
World building - Loved Talassi and the characters
Such a great read. Good pacing and action. Kept me captivated from the beginning. Didn’t expect the plot twist at the end.
This is another new favorite!
You’re def going to want this on your TBR!
I have a new genre to explore - Gothic and Sirens. I loved the darkness of it and will be looking for more books like this.
Thank you Dahlia for the opportunity.
I loved this book.
Storyline/Plot - 5⭐️
World building - Loved Talassi and the characters
Such a great read. Good pacing and action. Kept me captivated from the beginning. Didn’t expect the plot twist at the end.
This is another new favorite!
You’re def going to want this on your TBR!
I have a new genre to explore - Gothic and Sirens. I loved the darkness of it and will be looking for more books like this.
Thank you Dahlia for the opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+♾️
AMAZE AMAZE AMAZE
Dahlia thank you sooo incredibly much for letting me read this as an ARC. you da bestttt🖤
I fear I am irrevocably in love with Hazel and Draya.
Hazel’s story is GUT WRENCHING beyond belief. She might be one of the strongest FMCs ever.
Draya, my darling, you stole my own heart from me. His fierce protectiveness of Hazel has me SWOONINGGGG. 🥹
Who knew I would fall in love with a seaside gothic siren romance. I mean me I knew I knew I was going to fall in love this book bc let’s be honest Dahila can do no wrong when she writes a book🙌🏼
AMAZE AMAZE AMAZE
Dahlia thank you sooo incredibly much for letting me read this as an ARC. you da bestttt🖤
I fear I am irrevocably in love with Hazel and Draya.
Hazel’s story is GUT WRENCHING beyond belief. She might be one of the strongest FMCs ever.
Draya, my darling, you stole my own heart from me. His fierce protectiveness of Hazel has me SWOONINGGGG. 🥹
Who knew I would fall in love with a seaside gothic siren romance. I mean me I knew I knew I was going to fall in love this book bc let’s be honest Dahila can do no wrong when she writes a book🙌🏼
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to the author for this ARC Ebook! 🎣🕯️
A coastal gothic story? I was already sat and invested.
The world building and storytelling of this author was so amazing; you could real feel a big eerie or uncomfortable while reading it, but not necessarily spooked. I loved the connection between the main characters and how their story unraveled. This book definitely reels you in with a rollercoaster of emotions in all the best ways!
This was my introduction to this author’s work and I will be definitely reading more!
A coastal gothic story? I was already sat and invested.
The world building and storytelling of this author was so amazing; you could real feel a big eerie or uncomfortable while reading it, but not necessarily spooked. I loved the connection between the main characters and how their story unraveled. This book definitely reels you in with a rollercoaster of emotions in all the best ways!
This was my introduction to this author’s work and I will be definitely reading more!
July 17, 2026
I had the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Unmoored by Dahlia Jade. I gave this book 3.5 stars. This book is a standalone gothic siren romance. Dahlia did an incredible job writing about trauma and what trauma recovery can look like. While the book was fairly predictable in my opinion, the story was unique. If you are looking for a siren romance with an undertone of trauma, historical writing, and found family, I would recommend giving this book a read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
A devastating start to a loving end, this gothic romance had me in its death grip! Follow Hazel through her tragic past, pushing into a harsh transition to the future she wants. Her past choices may not have been her own, but she will fight tooth and nail to gain that freedom for herself.
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
A devastating start to a loving end, this gothic romance had me in its death grip! Follow Hazel through her tragic past, pushing into a harsh transition to the future she wants. Her past choices may not have been her own, but she will fight tooth and nail to gain that freedom for herself.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Unmoored by Dahlia Jade was such a unique story and actually my first gothic romance. It follows a woman who is sent away to an insane asylum by her father, but she was in a shipwreck and everything changes when she’s rescued by a siren.
The storyline kept me hooked and everything was described so vividly. It was so easy to picture the world and scenes as I was reading.
Thank you for my first e-ARC!!! 🤍
The storyline kept me hooked and everything was described so vividly. It was so easy to picture the world and scenes as I was reading.
Thank you for my first e-ARC!!! 🤍
Review of advance copy received from Author
I always measure my expectations before reading a new book, and this one blew it out of the water (yay, pun!) Draya and Hazel meet under less than ideal circumstances, which continue to be a problem for Hazel for much of the story. Unmoored is mostly told from Hazel's perspective during their time apart, though there are glimpses of a overlapping timeline at points. Bonus points for hidden parentage, a captive prince, a psycho legal dad, and creepy asylum on an isolated island. I was really sweating reading certain moments. That HEA was well-deserved and earned.
August 10, 2026
Finished this in one day,
If you like gothic romance and sirens. This is a great book for you.
I love books that are settled in the victorian era.
The book has an curious innocent fml who grows into her power.
I wish we got more world building about the sirens and some more interaction with the side characters.
But overall it was a pleasant read.
Would love to get a prequel about two lovers, IYKYK
If you like gothic romance and sirens. This is a great book for you.
I love books that are settled in the victorian era.
The book has an curious innocent fml who grows into her power.
I wish we got more world building about the sirens and some more interaction with the side characters.
But overall it was a pleasant read.
Would love to get a prequel about two lovers, IYKYK
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