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Threnody
Not yet published
Expected 13 Oct 26The sea has whispered Ezra Thorn's name for as long as she can remember.
After surviving a shipwreck, Ezra washes ashore on the cursed island of Port Calliope Bay, where sirens haunt the surrounding waters and a brutal ritual sacrifice known as the fleshing keeps the island alive. As an outsider with no protection, Ezra quickly learns her survival is uncertain.
Her only refuge lies with Archie Abrams, the governor's nephew. He’s dangerously charming, fiercely secretive, and bound to the island's darkness in ways he refuses to explain. When an ancient artifact tied to the sea resurfaces, Ezra and Archie join forces to end the curse that has long fed the islanders to the sirens. But as they delve deeper into its secrets, forbidden desire ignites between them, becoming a temptation neither can afford.
Yet Port Calliope Bay hides truths older than its curse, and the voice calling Ezra from the depths knows her far too well. With each haunting song, it lures her toward a fate written long before she was born. Because some curses aren't meant to be broken—but fulfilled.
A gothic fantasy romance of sirens, morally grey heroes, and dangerous desire, perfect for readers who love dark, atmospheric romantasy with a steamy slow burn.
After surviving a shipwreck, Ezra washes ashore on the cursed island of Port Calliope Bay, where sirens haunt the surrounding waters and a brutal ritual sacrifice known as the fleshing keeps the island alive. As an outsider with no protection, Ezra quickly learns her survival is uncertain.
Her only refuge lies with Archie Abrams, the governor's nephew. He’s dangerously charming, fiercely secretive, and bound to the island's darkness in ways he refuses to explain. When an ancient artifact tied to the sea resurfaces, Ezra and Archie join forces to end the curse that has long fed the islanders to the sirens. But as they delve deeper into its secrets, forbidden desire ignites between them, becoming a temptation neither can afford.
Yet Port Calliope Bay hides truths older than its curse, and the voice calling Ezra from the depths knows her far too well. With each haunting song, it lures her toward a fate written long before she was born. Because some curses aren't meant to be broken—but fulfilled.
A gothic fantasy romance of sirens, morally grey heroes, and dangerous desire, perfect for readers who love dark, atmospheric romantasy with a steamy slow burn.
410 pages, Paperback
Expected publication October 13, 2026
About the author
Cas E. Crowe
7 books44 followersHi, I’m Cas, an author of gothic romantasy where romance dances with ruin and magic whispers from the shadows. I write haunting, atmospheric stories shaped by folklore and the idea that some secrets are deeper than graveyards.
My novels live in the space where beauty meets fear and love brushes up against the damned. Expect slow-building dread, forbidden romance, morally grey hearts, and characters who are always one choice away from ruin or redemption.
If you love haunted worlds, dark magic, and romances that feel both dangerous and inevitable, you’ll feel right at home here.
If you’d like to step a little deeper into my worlds through exclusive scenes, bonus content, and private writing updates, you can find my newsletter here: https://www.casecrowe.com/
My novels live in the space where beauty meets fear and love brushes up against the damned. Expect slow-building dread, forbidden romance, morally grey hearts, and characters who are always one choice away from ruin or redemption.
If you love haunted worlds, dark magic, and romances that feel both dangerous and inevitable, you’ll feel right at home here.
If you’d like to step a little deeper into my worlds through exclusive scenes, bonus content, and private writing updates, you can find my newsletter here: https://www.casecrowe.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⊹₊˚‧┈┈┈┈┈✧┈┈┈┈₊୨ᰔ୧₊┈┈┈┈┈✧┈┈┈┈‧˚₊⊹
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤꜰᴏʀᴍᴀᴛ: ᴋɪɴᴅʟᴇ
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤᴅɪꜱᴄʟᴀɪᴍᴇʀ: ɪ ɢᴏᴛ ᴛᴏ ʀᴇᴀᴅ ᴛʜɪꜱ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ꜰᴏʀ ꜰʀᴇᴇ ᴛʜᴀɴᴋꜱ
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ᴀᴜᴛʜᴏʀ/ᴘᴜʙʟɪꜱʜᴇʀ ᴠɪᴀ ɴᴇᴛɢᴀʟʟᴇʏ, ʙᴜᴛ ᴍʏ ᴏᴘɪɴɪᴏɴ
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤᴡɪʟʟ ʙᴇ ꜰᴜʟʟʏ ᴍʏ ᴏᴡɴ.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⊹₊˚‧┈┈┈┈┈✧┈┈┈┈₊୨ᰔ୧₊┈┈┈┈┈✧┈┈┈┈‧˚₊⊹
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⊱ ۫ ׅ✧ My rating: 2.75/5 ᯽
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⊹₊ ˚･:🌼࿔ 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 ࿔:･˚ ₊⊹
I really wanted this one to work for me because the premise sounded really up my alley. I also never read a siren romantasy before, so I was really excited to dive into something different!
While I genuinely enjoyed the concept, I never connected with the execution.
One thing I did appreciate was how easy this book was to read. The pacing kept me turning pages, and I never got bored and basically read it in 1 go. But I just couldn't feel the emotional side of the story.
A lot of the big moments (including the "romance") happened so quickly that I never really had time to sit with them before the story had already moved on. The plot always kept moving which I appreciated, but I personally needed more buildup for those moments to work.
The writing itself also didn't always work for me, at times it felt emotionally distant. And the lyrical siren songs.... unfortunately weren't for me. I understand what they were trying to do, but they came across too theatrical for me.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⊹₊ ˚‧ꨄ٠࣪⭑💐 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 ٠࣪⭑ꨄ‧ ˚ ₊⊹
I feel like this book didn't need a romance in it, because for me it never worked.
I never became invested in them as a couple. There are no moments of quiet conversations or banter or moments that would make me understand why these two fell for eachother. It's just...suddenly there.
It's also advertised as a slow burn yet there are already smut scenes in this book, and for it's length I didn't feel like that was really slow. But maybe that's just my personal opinion.
Honestly I think this would've worked better if the focus was on the fantasy part, and if the author really wanted a romance, maybe it shouldn't be the main focus or be better developed. But once again that is just my personal opinion.
⋆.˚🦋༘⋆ Pre read:
Got the arc for this yayy
"A gothic fantasy romance of sirens, morally grey heroes, and dangerous desire, perfect for readers who love dark, atmospheric romantasy with a steamy slow burn."
I fear that screams ME. I'm excitedd
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤꜰᴏʀᴍᴀᴛ: ᴋɪɴᴅʟᴇ
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤᴅɪꜱᴄʟᴀɪᴍᴇʀ: ɪ ɢᴏᴛ ᴛᴏ ʀᴇᴀᴅ ᴛʜɪꜱ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ꜰᴏʀ ꜰʀᴇᴇ ᴛʜᴀɴᴋꜱ
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ᴀᴜᴛʜᴏʀ/ᴘᴜʙʟɪꜱʜᴇʀ ᴠɪᴀ ɴᴇᴛɢᴀʟʟᴇʏ, ʙᴜᴛ ᴍʏ ᴏᴘɪɴɪᴏɴ
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤᴡɪʟʟ ʙᴇ ꜰᴜʟʟʏ ᴍʏ ᴏᴡɴ.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⊹₊˚‧┈┈┈┈┈✧┈┈┈┈₊୨ᰔ୧₊┈┈┈┈┈✧┈┈┈┈‧˚₊⊹
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⊱ ۫ ׅ✧ My rating: 2.75/5 ᯽
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⊹₊ ˚･:🌼࿔ 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 ࿔:･˚ ₊⊹
I really wanted this one to work for me because the premise sounded really up my alley. I also never read a siren romantasy before, so I was really excited to dive into something different!
While I genuinely enjoyed the concept, I never connected with the execution.
One thing I did appreciate was how easy this book was to read. The pacing kept me turning pages, and I never got bored and basically read it in 1 go. But I just couldn't feel the emotional side of the story.
A lot of the big moments (including the "romance") happened so quickly that I never really had time to sit with them before the story had already moved on. The plot always kept moving which I appreciated, but I personally needed more buildup for those moments to work.
The writing itself also didn't always work for me, at times it felt emotionally distant. And the lyrical siren songs.... unfortunately weren't for me. I understand what they were trying to do, but they came across too theatrical for me.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⊹₊ ˚‧ꨄ٠࣪⭑💐 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 ٠࣪⭑ꨄ‧ ˚ ₊⊹
I feel like this book didn't need a romance in it, because for me it never worked.
I never became invested in them as a couple. There are no moments of quiet conversations or banter or moments that would make me understand why these two fell for eachother. It's just...suddenly there.
It's also advertised as a slow burn yet there are already smut scenes in this book, and for it's length I didn't feel like that was really slow. But maybe that's just my personal opinion.
Honestly I think this would've worked better if the focus was on the fantasy part, and if the author really wanted a romance, maybe it shouldn't be the main focus or be better developed. But once again that is just my personal opinion.
⋆.˚🦋༘⋆ Pre read:
Got the arc for this yayy
"A gothic fantasy romance of sirens, morally grey heroes, and dangerous desire, perfect for readers who love dark, atmospheric romantasy with a steamy slow burn."
I fear that screams ME. I'm excitedd
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Free Copy Provided by NG*
Spoiler Free Summary:
A woman is on a dream/purgatory island after her boat goes down. Now she must run from Sirens and do a treasure hunt.
Vibes
My first impression was that this had one of the strongest opening chapters I've ever read. The author immediately throws you into the chaos, and you genuinely feel like you're going down with the ship alongside the characters. It was an incredibly immersive and gripping start.
After that, the pacing became a bit choppier, but the overall mystery was still well executed. I really enjoyed how the author sprinkled in subtle clues and Easter eggs before delivering major reveals. It kept me piecing everything together and made the payoff satisfying. The story also leaves plenty of room for both main characters to grow, though that means there's quite a bit of immature and childish behavior, which fits their ages but can be frustrating at times.
Toward the end, however, the story started to feel repetitive and dragged enough that I found myself skimming the final 25%. I think the book would have been much stronger if some of the middle had been tightened up. In particular, the scene where the FMC ventures out in the middle of winter only to immediately turn back felt unnecessary and didn't add much to the story. Trimming moments like that would have kept the pacing much sharper.
Spoiler Free Summary:
A woman is on a dream/purgatory island after her boat goes down. Now she must run from Sirens and do a treasure hunt.
Vibes
My first impression was that this had one of the strongest opening chapters I've ever read. The author immediately throws you into the chaos, and you genuinely feel like you're going down with the ship alongside the characters. It was an incredibly immersive and gripping start.
After that, the pacing became a bit choppier, but the overall mystery was still well executed. I really enjoyed how the author sprinkled in subtle clues and Easter eggs before delivering major reveals. It kept me piecing everything together and made the payoff satisfying. The story also leaves plenty of room for both main characters to grow, though that means there's quite a bit of immature and childish behavior, which fits their ages but can be frustrating at times.
Toward the end, however, the story started to feel repetitive and dragged enough that I found myself skimming the final 25%. I think the book would have been much stronger if some of the middle had been tightened up. In particular, the scene where the FMC ventures out in the middle of winter only to immediately turn back felt unnecessary and didn't add much to the story. Trimming moments like that would have kept the pacing much sharper.
July 13, 2026
This story has an eerie dark gothic atmosphere to it that is absolute perfection. The constant something just isn’t right feeling , combined with how every character feels untrustworthy keeps your turning page after page. It’s has a slight Pirates of the Caribbean vibe that I really enjoyed. I wish Ezra made better decisions at times but I think most of her actions were a product of being sheltered and spoiled so just add to her humanness , even if they had me internally screaming at her not to do something. This is a perfect addition to a summerween tbr!
*this does end on a bit of a cliff hanger that leaves your desperate for book two.
Thanks to the author for my arc, the opinions are my own.
*this does end on a bit of a cliff hanger that leaves your desperate for book two.
Thanks to the author for my arc, the opinions are my own.
July 26, 2026
— ARC review 𐙚
Threnody — a song, poem, or speech of mourning composed or performed in memory of someone who has died. Essentially a dirge or elegy, the term comes from the Greek threnos (wailing) and oide (ode).
After fate leaves Ezra trapped on an isolated island, she uncovers a world where pirates, myths, and forgotten secrets are far more real than she ever imagined.
𐙚 Dark fantasy romance
𐙚 Pirate romance
𐙚 Sirens / sea mythology
𐙚 Forced proximity
𐙚 Ezra
I really liked Ezra as a character. She’s a product of both her upbringing and the society she lives in. She’s naive yet cautious, trusting yet distrustful, and I found those contradictions made her feel very human.
Her backstory is well executed, and everything we learn about her unfolds naturally. I found myself growing more attached to her with every chapter.
𐙚 Archie
We don’t really get inside Archie’s head, so it’s difficult to form a definitive opinion about him. Still, I was suspicious of him from the very beginning.
Even toward the end, when he’s supposed to have fallen for Ezra, his feelings didn’t feel entirely genuine to me. They stayed a little too surface-level. One moment he’s telling her there’s no room in his life for a new love, and the next it’s suddenly “She’s mine.”
Maybe it felt a little rushed. Not necessarily underdeveloped, because it never pulled me out of the story, but I do think the emotional transition could have been handled with more care.
Overall, I still liked his character—even if he’s an ungrateful dick. I won’t elaborate because I don’t want to spoil anything.
𐙚 Them
“Archie, what if I can’t escape him?”
He crosses the room and lifts me onto my feet. Our bodies press together, the air thick and charged between us.
“That will not happen,” he tells me, his voice as hard as iron. “You’re mine, Ezra. And I’m yours. Neptus won’t get between us.”
The slow burn could have been… slower. And a lot burnier.
For most of the book, it felt more like unrequited love than an actual slow burn, at least until Archie suddenly decided he wanted her.
Again, it didn’t ruin the romance for me—I genuinely enjoyed their relationship. I just wish there had been more yearning, especially from Archie’s side. More internal conflict, more longing, more moments where he fought his feelings before finally giving in.
Judging by the way this book ends, I have a feeling the sequel will deliver more of that, and I really hope it does.
𐙚 The plot / the book in itself
It was a great reading. It made me curious, wanting to drink in every of its pages. And it may not be THE book of 2026 for some, but for me it was a really good book and I can't wait to read more about its world.
So thank you Cas. E. Crowe for this book. Thank you Netgalley.
Threnody — a song, poem, or speech of mourning composed or performed in memory of someone who has died. Essentially a dirge or elegy, the term comes from the Greek threnos (wailing) and oide (ode).
After fate leaves Ezra trapped on an isolated island, she uncovers a world where pirates, myths, and forgotten secrets are far more real than she ever imagined.
𐙚 Dark fantasy romance
𐙚 Pirate romance
𐙚 Sirens / sea mythology
𐙚 Forced proximity
𐙚 Ezra
I really liked Ezra as a character. She’s a product of both her upbringing and the society she lives in. She’s naive yet cautious, trusting yet distrustful, and I found those contradictions made her feel very human.
Her backstory is well executed, and everything we learn about her unfolds naturally. I found myself growing more attached to her with every chapter.
𐙚 Archie
We don’t really get inside Archie’s head, so it’s difficult to form a definitive opinion about him. Still, I was suspicious of him from the very beginning.
Even toward the end, when he’s supposed to have fallen for Ezra, his feelings didn’t feel entirely genuine to me. They stayed a little too surface-level. One moment he’s telling her there’s no room in his life for a new love, and the next it’s suddenly “She’s mine.”
Maybe it felt a little rushed. Not necessarily underdeveloped, because it never pulled me out of the story, but I do think the emotional transition could have been handled with more care.
Overall, I still liked his character—even if he’s an ungrateful dick. I won’t elaborate because I don’t want to spoil anything.
𐙚 Them
“Archie, what if I can’t escape him?”
He crosses the room and lifts me onto my feet. Our bodies press together, the air thick and charged between us.
“That will not happen,” he tells me, his voice as hard as iron. “You’re mine, Ezra. And I’m yours. Neptus won’t get between us.”
The slow burn could have been… slower. And a lot burnier.
For most of the book, it felt more like unrequited love than an actual slow burn, at least until Archie suddenly decided he wanted her.
Again, it didn’t ruin the romance for me—I genuinely enjoyed their relationship. I just wish there had been more yearning, especially from Archie’s side. More internal conflict, more longing, more moments where he fought his feelings before finally giving in.
Judging by the way this book ends, I have a feeling the sequel will deliver more of that, and I really hope it does.
𐙚 The plot / the book in itself
It was a great reading. It made me curious, wanting to drink in every of its pages. And it may not be THE book of 2026 for some, but for me it was a really good book and I can't wait to read more about its world.
So thank you Cas. E. Crowe for this book. Thank you Netgalley.
July 17, 2026
Saw this book cover on NetGalley and was like ‘oh that’s gorgeous’, then I read the description and needed to read it. Yes, I judged a book by its cover. It got my attention and I’m glad it did because this book was amazing. I think this is one of the best books I have read in a while. It was impossible to put this book down. Just from the first chapter alone I was hooked. Beautifully written. This is a gothic fantasy with twists & turns. The whole plot & concept of this book was so good. Slow burn, worth it. Sirens NOT mermaids. I need book 2 immediately because this ending was perfect, but I’m hooked & need more.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
🖤 Threnody completely pulled me into its haunting world from the very first chapter. If you're looking for a gothic fantasy with eerie vibes, dangerous magic, and an island full of secrets, this one absolutely delivers. It has that addictive quality where you promise yourself you'll stop after one more chapter... and suddenly you've finished half the book.
🌊 The story begins with Ezra, who survives a shipwreck only to find herself stranded on an isolated island trapped beneath an ancient siren curse. The sun never reaches its shores, the atmosphere is heavy with fear, and every month someone must be sacrificed to satisfy the sirens. When Archie rescues her and brings her to his family's crumbling manor, it's immediately clear that nothing on this island is quite what it seems. Everyone appears to be hiding something, and I was constantly questioning who could actually be trusted.
🌑 The setting was easily my favorite part of the novel. Cas E. Crowe creates an incredibly immersive world filled with eerie forests, shadowy caves, abandoned villages, and a decaying manor that feels alive with secrets. Every location added to the unsettling atmosphere, and I genuinely felt the isolation alongside the characters. The gothic tone never lets up, making this the perfect book for anyone who enjoys darker fantasy with spooky-season energy.
🧜 As the mystery unfolds, the story introduces the Siren King, the search for a lost crown, hidden motives, family secrets, and twists that kept catching me off guard. Every time I thought I understood where the story was heading, another revelation completely changed the direction. The final chapters especially were packed with surprises, and I definitely wasn't prepared for everything that happened. And... Rosie deserved so much better. 🥹
❤️ The romance between Ezra and Archie is very much a slow burn. I enjoyed their partnership and the way they worked together to survive everything the island threw at them, but I did find myself wishing for a little more emotional development between them. There were moments where their relationship felt like it was moving in circles, with misunderstandings and repeated rescues slowing the progression. Because of that, some of the stronger romantic feelings expressed later in the book didn't feel quite as earned as I had hoped. I would have loved to see more quiet moments that allowed their connection to grow naturally.
📖 Even with that, the pacing kept me completely engaged. The mystery surrounding the curse, the constant feeling that danger was lurking nearby, and the uncertainty surrounding every character made it incredibly difficult to put the book down. The author's writing is wonderfully atmospheric, making it easy to picture every scene as though you were wandering the island alongside Ezra.
✨ My only other small reservation was that Archie's
final point of view felt more focused on setting up the sequel than concluding his own emotional arc. It definitely made me curious about what's coming next, but I wanted that ending to feel a little more connected to everything we'd experienced before it.
🖤 Overall, Threnody is an immersive gothic romantasy with unforgettable world-building, an intriguing mystery, chilling atmosphere, and enough twists to keep you guessing until the very last page. While I would've liked a bit more development in the romance, the incredible setting, compelling plot, and jaw-dropping cliffhanger left me more than ready to pick up book two.
🌊 The story begins with Ezra, who survives a shipwreck only to find herself stranded on an isolated island trapped beneath an ancient siren curse. The sun never reaches its shores, the atmosphere is heavy with fear, and every month someone must be sacrificed to satisfy the sirens. When Archie rescues her and brings her to his family's crumbling manor, it's immediately clear that nothing on this island is quite what it seems. Everyone appears to be hiding something, and I was constantly questioning who could actually be trusted.
🌑 The setting was easily my favorite part of the novel. Cas E. Crowe creates an incredibly immersive world filled with eerie forests, shadowy caves, abandoned villages, and a decaying manor that feels alive with secrets. Every location added to the unsettling atmosphere, and I genuinely felt the isolation alongside the characters. The gothic tone never lets up, making this the perfect book for anyone who enjoys darker fantasy with spooky-season energy.
🧜 As the mystery unfolds, the story introduces the Siren King, the search for a lost crown, hidden motives, family secrets, and twists that kept catching me off guard. Every time I thought I understood where the story was heading, another revelation completely changed the direction. The final chapters especially were packed with surprises, and I definitely wasn't prepared for everything that happened. And... Rosie deserved so much better. 🥹
❤️ The romance between Ezra and Archie is very much a slow burn. I enjoyed their partnership and the way they worked together to survive everything the island threw at them, but I did find myself wishing for a little more emotional development between them. There were moments where their relationship felt like it was moving in circles, with misunderstandings and repeated rescues slowing the progression. Because of that, some of the stronger romantic feelings expressed later in the book didn't feel quite as earned as I had hoped. I would have loved to see more quiet moments that allowed their connection to grow naturally.
📖 Even with that, the pacing kept me completely engaged. The mystery surrounding the curse, the constant feeling that danger was lurking nearby, and the uncertainty surrounding every character made it incredibly difficult to put the book down. The author's writing is wonderfully atmospheric, making it easy to picture every scene as though you were wandering the island alongside Ezra.
✨ My only other small reservation was that Archie's
final point of view felt more focused on setting up the sequel than concluding his own emotional arc. It definitely made me curious about what's coming next, but I wanted that ending to feel a little more connected to everything we'd experienced before it.
🖤 Overall, Threnody is an immersive gothic romantasy with unforgettable world-building, an intriguing mystery, chilling atmosphere, and enough twists to keep you guessing until the very last page. While I would've liked a bit more development in the romance, the incredible setting, compelling plot, and jaw-dropping cliffhanger left me more than ready to pick up book two.
July 20, 2026
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
Fog, cursed seas, creepy manors, suspicious people… say less. This book had me happily walking straight into danger from the first page and honestly, I would’ve followed the creepy path with absolutely zero survival instincts.
Before I start my review, a huge thank you to Cas E. Crowe for giving me the chance to read this eBook before its October 13, 2026 release. Getting early access to a story is always exciting, but this one grabbed me by the hand, dragged me into the chaos and refused to let go.
Threnody follows Ezra, who survives a shipwreck and finds herself stranded on an island where trusting people feels like trying to win a game where everyone else knows the rules except you. Then comes Archie and immediately my detective mode activated. Every conversation had me squinting at the page like “Hmm… interesting choice of words there.” Everyone had secrets, everyone felt suspicious and my trust issues were absolutely thriving.
The atmosphere was honestly everything. The island felt like it had its own dark little personality. The fog, the eerie coastline, the decaying surroundings, the feeling that something was always watching from the shadows… it was creepy in the best way. This book gave me that “I should probably leave, but I’m way too curious” feeling and honestly, that’s my favorite kind of chaos.
The mystery had me completely hooked. Every time I thought I had something figured out, the story casually walked in, flipped the table, and proved me wrong. The sirens, the secrets, the legends, the hidden motives, it was one giant puzzle and apparently I enjoy suffering because I kept trying to solve it anyway.
Now, the romance. This is a slow burn. Like… someone put it in the oven and forgot about it. I wanted a little more spark between Ezra and Archie because I kept waiting for that moment that would have me kicking my feet and smiling like an idiot. It didn’t fully get there for me, but honestly, the mystery and the gothic atmosphere were doing all the heavy lifting and I was perfectly happy being distracted by all the chaos happening around them.
My only complaint is that the middle dragged a little. There were moments where I wanted the story to pick up the pace because I was ready for things to start exploding (emotionally, not literally). But once everything started moving again, I flew through the rest.
And that ending? Absolutely disrespectful.
Cas E. Crowe really looked at readers and said “Here, have some emotional damage. See you in book two.”
Without spoiling anything, the final chapters completely changed the emotional weight of the story. What starts as a mystery suddenly becomes deeply personal and the last few pages left me with this heavy feeling that nothing will ever be simple for Ezra and Archie again. There’s heartbreak, betrayal, impossible choices and one promise hanging over everything that genuinely gave me chills. I closed the book knowing the real battle is only just beginning and now I desperately need book two because I refuse to live with that ending any longer than necessary.
If you love gothic fantasy, creepy islands, sirens, dark secrets, morally questionable characters and books that make you suspicious of literally everyone, Threnody needs to be on your TBR. Just prepare yourself because this book will take your curiosity, your emotions and your peace of mind… toss them into the ocean… and leave you waiting for the next wave.
Fog, cursed seas, creepy manors, suspicious people… say less. This book had me happily walking straight into danger from the first page and honestly, I would’ve followed the creepy path with absolutely zero survival instincts.
Before I start my review, a huge thank you to Cas E. Crowe for giving me the chance to read this eBook before its October 13, 2026 release. Getting early access to a story is always exciting, but this one grabbed me by the hand, dragged me into the chaos and refused to let go.
Threnody follows Ezra, who survives a shipwreck and finds herself stranded on an island where trusting people feels like trying to win a game where everyone else knows the rules except you. Then comes Archie and immediately my detective mode activated. Every conversation had me squinting at the page like “Hmm… interesting choice of words there.” Everyone had secrets, everyone felt suspicious and my trust issues were absolutely thriving.
The atmosphere was honestly everything. The island felt like it had its own dark little personality. The fog, the eerie coastline, the decaying surroundings, the feeling that something was always watching from the shadows… it was creepy in the best way. This book gave me that “I should probably leave, but I’m way too curious” feeling and honestly, that’s my favorite kind of chaos.
The mystery had me completely hooked. Every time I thought I had something figured out, the story casually walked in, flipped the table, and proved me wrong. The sirens, the secrets, the legends, the hidden motives, it was one giant puzzle and apparently I enjoy suffering because I kept trying to solve it anyway.
Now, the romance. This is a slow burn. Like… someone put it in the oven and forgot about it. I wanted a little more spark between Ezra and Archie because I kept waiting for that moment that would have me kicking my feet and smiling like an idiot. It didn’t fully get there for me, but honestly, the mystery and the gothic atmosphere were doing all the heavy lifting and I was perfectly happy being distracted by all the chaos happening around them.
My only complaint is that the middle dragged a little. There were moments where I wanted the story to pick up the pace because I was ready for things to start exploding (emotionally, not literally). But once everything started moving again, I flew through the rest.
And that ending? Absolutely disrespectful.
Cas E. Crowe really looked at readers and said “Here, have some emotional damage. See you in book two.”
Without spoiling anything, the final chapters completely changed the emotional weight of the story. What starts as a mystery suddenly becomes deeply personal and the last few pages left me with this heavy feeling that nothing will ever be simple for Ezra and Archie again. There’s heartbreak, betrayal, impossible choices and one promise hanging over everything that genuinely gave me chills. I closed the book knowing the real battle is only just beginning and now I desperately need book two because I refuse to live with that ending any longer than necessary.
If you love gothic fantasy, creepy islands, sirens, dark secrets, morally questionable characters and books that make you suspicious of literally everyone, Threnody needs to be on your TBR. Just prepare yourself because this book will take your curiosity, your emotions and your peace of mind… toss them into the ocean… and leave you waiting for the next wave.
July 23, 2026
Threnody pulled me in with its atmosphere from the very beginning. The cursed island setting, gothic elements, and eerie sense that something was always lurking just beneath the surface created such a strong mood throughout the story. The world of Port Calliope Bay was easily one of my favorite parts of the book, and I loved the darker fantasy elements woven into the setting.
The mystery was another highlight for me. This is a story built around secrets, uncertainty, and the question of who can truly be trusted. I enjoyed the experience of piecing together the larger picture and constantly reevaluating what I thought I understood. The mythology and lore surrounding the island, the sirens, and the larger world added an interesting layer that kept me curious.
The final stretch of the book especially picked up the pace, with higher emotional stakes and a lot of revelations that pushed the story forward. I found myself wanting to keep reading because I needed to see how everything would come together.
Where I struggled was with some of the pacing, particularly with the romance. While I appreciated the emotional connection between the characters and the bond they formed through their experiences, the progression did not fully work for me as a slow burn. The emotional buildup felt more gradual on one side, while the shift into the romantic relationship happened much faster than I expected.
I also found that the story introduced many different threads and mysteries, which kept me engaged but occasionally made me wish certain moments had more room to develop before moving on to the next reveal.
Overall, Threnody is an atmospheric gothic fantasy with a strong sense of place, intriguing mythology, and a mystery that keeps you questioning what is really happening. Readers who enjoy sirens, dark fantasy, morally complicated characters, and stories filled with secrets will likely find a lot to enjoy here.
Despite some of my pacing critiques, I’ll definitely be picking up the second book. The story leaves off with a lot still to explore, and I’m genuinely curious to see how Cas E. Crowe continues and resolves the threads left hanging.
Thank you NetGalley and Cas E. Crowe for providing me with this arc.
The mystery was another highlight for me. This is a story built around secrets, uncertainty, and the question of who can truly be trusted. I enjoyed the experience of piecing together the larger picture and constantly reevaluating what I thought I understood. The mythology and lore surrounding the island, the sirens, and the larger world added an interesting layer that kept me curious.
The final stretch of the book especially picked up the pace, with higher emotional stakes and a lot of revelations that pushed the story forward. I found myself wanting to keep reading because I needed to see how everything would come together.
Where I struggled was with some of the pacing, particularly with the romance. While I appreciated the emotional connection between the characters and the bond they formed through their experiences, the progression did not fully work for me as a slow burn. The emotional buildup felt more gradual on one side, while the shift into the romantic relationship happened much faster than I expected.
I also found that the story introduced many different threads and mysteries, which kept me engaged but occasionally made me wish certain moments had more room to develop before moving on to the next reveal.
Overall, Threnody is an atmospheric gothic fantasy with a strong sense of place, intriguing mythology, and a mystery that keeps you questioning what is really happening. Readers who enjoy sirens, dark fantasy, morally complicated characters, and stories filled with secrets will likely find a lot to enjoy here.
Despite some of my pacing critiques, I’ll definitely be picking up the second book. The story leaves off with a lot still to explore, and I’m genuinely curious to see how Cas E. Crowe continues and resolves the threads left hanging.
Thank you NetGalley and Cas E. Crowe for providing me with this arc.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
2.5/5 stars
I was very excited for this ARC! The premise of it sounded so interesting and I love a gothic fantasy romance!
I want to start by saying that I think the author writes really well. It was very immersive and I do love the way she writes the setting and ambiance.
Unfortunately, that is where the good stops for me. I loathed the FMC. Every decision and feeling she had felt so childish that when it was said she was 23, I was shocked to learn that this wasn’t going to be a YA, and I believe that if this was written as a YA novel, it would actually be much better.
The FMC comes off delusional and desperate for most of the book. There was heavy insta love on her end even though he stabbed her, she didn’t trust him, and he was exceedingly and overwhelmingly uninterested in her. It really bothered me that after only a day and a half of being conscious after her injuries, she was already jealous of his DEAD fiance. It is stated multiple times throughout the book that she is jealous when he brings her up, and she even goes as far as to want him to get rid of her engagement ring that he wore around his neck because she was dead and shouldn’t matter to him anymore after they finally got together. It was truly appalling to me.
As far as the MMC goes. He just felt very boring. Only speaking to lie or give half truths to her. There is no indication at any point that he is ever interested in her, and even tells the FMC to her face that he will never love anyone else only a couple chapters before they get together for the first time. His random switch into being completely in love with her felt forced, and I was waiting for the shoe to drop that he never loved her in the first place…
There was no chemistry between the two of them. She was obsessed almost to the point of sounding like a stalker, and he was completely uninterested up until the point where he wasn’t? I just could get behind it and I was actively hoping he was going to use her to sacrifice her to get something he wanted.
The twist at the end did get me. I was not expecting it, and while it did get a little convoluted at the end, I did feel like the ending was the best part of the whole book. The ending and the atmosphere is why it has earned 2.5 stars from me.
I was very excited for this ARC! The premise of it sounded so interesting and I love a gothic fantasy romance!
I want to start by saying that I think the author writes really well. It was very immersive and I do love the way she writes the setting and ambiance.
Unfortunately, that is where the good stops for me. I loathed the FMC. Every decision and feeling she had felt so childish that when it was said she was 23, I was shocked to learn that this wasn’t going to be a YA, and I believe that if this was written as a YA novel, it would actually be much better.
The FMC comes off delusional and desperate for most of the book. There was heavy insta love on her end even though he stabbed her, she didn’t trust him, and he was exceedingly and overwhelmingly uninterested in her. It really bothered me that after only a day and a half of being conscious after her injuries, she was already jealous of his DEAD fiance. It is stated multiple times throughout the book that she is jealous when he brings her up, and she even goes as far as to want him to get rid of her engagement ring that he wore around his neck because she was dead and shouldn’t matter to him anymore after they finally got together. It was truly appalling to me.
As far as the MMC goes. He just felt very boring. Only speaking to lie or give half truths to her. There is no indication at any point that he is ever interested in her, and even tells the FMC to her face that he will never love anyone else only a couple chapters before they get together for the first time. His random switch into being completely in love with her felt forced, and I was waiting for the shoe to drop that he never loved her in the first place…
There was no chemistry between the two of them. She was obsessed almost to the point of sounding like a stalker, and he was completely uninterested up until the point where he wasn’t? I just could get behind it and I was actively hoping he was going to use her to sacrifice her to get something he wanted.
The twist at the end did get me. I was not expecting it, and while it did get a little convoluted at the end, I did feel like the ending was the best part of the whole book. The ending and the atmosphere is why it has earned 2.5 stars from me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4 ⭐️
Holy shit. This book really caught me by surprise, even for being in my loved realm of genres.
Threnody is book one of a new dark, gothic, siren romantasy duet that will be WELL worth reading. I struggled against sleep to put this down (but, ultimately, sleep won the battle).
AND CAN WE LOOK AT THAT COVER ART 👀
While this book teeters on a 4-4.5 for me, it is mostly due to the same descriptors used repetitively, and some things that I felt could have been edited a bit better. The timing was superb, the slow burn, deliciously irritating, the story line, brilliantly done, and the atmosphere, beautifully painted. An easy must-read for anyone who enjoys a gothic seaside siren story.
Ezra Thorn has heard "The Reaper" calling to her since she can remember. What she did not know was that the voice belongs to the sea.
After surviving a shipwreck of peculiar circumstances, Ezra washes up on the shores of Port Calliope Bay, a secluded island surrounded by mists, where the sun never shines. The thing is, no one should be able to reach the island - the waters are cursed to not only its inhabitants, but to all those who venture too close - and Ezra is the first person to touch its shores in 8 years.
Archie Abrams, a broody, secretive, ex-pirate - and nephew of the islands governor - is her only true hope of survival. But, while the sirens call out to her and the Red Guard search for the stranger on the island, Ezra and Archie must race against the moon and tides to determine how to break the siren curse, and will need eachother to succeed.
But trust is hard to find for Ezra, and the Phantom leading her enforces that she "cannot trust anyone. Especially him." The only problem is that these allies become more than temptation to eachother, and forbidden desires may very well be what halts the curses cure.
Thank you to NetGalley and Cas E. Crowe for the ARC copy 🧜🏽♀️
Holy shit. This book really caught me by surprise, even for being in my loved realm of genres.
Threnody is book one of a new dark, gothic, siren romantasy duet that will be WELL worth reading. I struggled against sleep to put this down (but, ultimately, sleep won the battle).
AND CAN WE LOOK AT THAT COVER ART 👀
While this book teeters on a 4-4.5 for me, it is mostly due to the same descriptors used repetitively, and some things that I felt could have been edited a bit better. The timing was superb, the slow burn, deliciously irritating, the story line, brilliantly done, and the atmosphere, beautifully painted. An easy must-read for anyone who enjoys a gothic seaside siren story.
Ezra Thorn has heard "The Reaper" calling to her since she can remember. What she did not know was that the voice belongs to the sea.
After surviving a shipwreck of peculiar circumstances, Ezra washes up on the shores of Port Calliope Bay, a secluded island surrounded by mists, where the sun never shines. The thing is, no one should be able to reach the island - the waters are cursed to not only its inhabitants, but to all those who venture too close - and Ezra is the first person to touch its shores in 8 years.
Archie Abrams, a broody, secretive, ex-pirate - and nephew of the islands governor - is her only true hope of survival. But, while the sirens call out to her and the Red Guard search for the stranger on the island, Ezra and Archie must race against the moon and tides to determine how to break the siren curse, and will need eachother to succeed.
But trust is hard to find for Ezra, and the Phantom leading her enforces that she "cannot trust anyone. Especially him." The only problem is that these allies become more than temptation to eachother, and forbidden desires may very well be what halts the curses cure.
Thank you to NetGalley and Cas E. Crowe for the ARC copy 🧜🏽♀️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Cas E. Crowe for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3.75* rounded up to 4*.
Ezra is shipwrecked and ends up on an island that is under a siren curse. The sun never shines and once a month someone must be given to the sirens to feed on. She's found by Archie, who is trying to break the curse, but can she trust him? And what of the rest of his family who live in the gloomy manor, who look at her with distrust and suspicion. What danger is she in?
This was a beautifully atmospheric gothic fantasy. I loved the constant sense of unease, the uncertainty over who could be trusted, and the claustrophobic, isolated island setting. The world-building was one of the book's greatest strengths. Whether in the dark woods, eerie caves, crumbling manor or abandoned village, every location was vividly described and helped reinforce the novel's haunting atmosphere. The plot moved quickly, and it was a good, fast-paced read.
My main reservation was the relationship between Ezra and Archie. It became a little repetitive, with Archie repeatedly arriving just in time to rescue Ezra, while Ezra continually mistrusted him, acted rashly based on half-heard conversations. Because of this, the intensity of the feelings they declared for one another in the final 20% of the book didn't feel like a natural progression of their relationship. Likewise, Archie's thoughts in his closing POV chapter didn't quite ring true to me and instead felt more like setting up book two than growing organically from everything that had come before.
Overall, this is a solid gothic romantasy with a wonderfully eerie atmosphere, strong world-building, and a compelling plot that kept me turning the pages.
3.75* rounded up to 4*.
Ezra is shipwrecked and ends up on an island that is under a siren curse. The sun never shines and once a month someone must be given to the sirens to feed on. She's found by Archie, who is trying to break the curse, but can she trust him? And what of the rest of his family who live in the gloomy manor, who look at her with distrust and suspicion. What danger is she in?
This was a beautifully atmospheric gothic fantasy. I loved the constant sense of unease, the uncertainty over who could be trusted, and the claustrophobic, isolated island setting. The world-building was one of the book's greatest strengths. Whether in the dark woods, eerie caves, crumbling manor or abandoned village, every location was vividly described and helped reinforce the novel's haunting atmosphere. The plot moved quickly, and it was a good, fast-paced read.
My main reservation was the relationship between Ezra and Archie. It became a little repetitive, with Archie repeatedly arriving just in time to rescue Ezra, while Ezra continually mistrusted him, acted rashly based on half-heard conversations. Because of this, the intensity of the feelings they declared for one another in the final 20% of the book didn't feel like a natural progression of their relationship. Likewise, Archie's thoughts in his closing POV chapter didn't quite ring true to me and instead felt more like setting up book two than growing organically from everything that had come before.
Overall, this is a solid gothic romantasy with a wonderfully eerie atmosphere, strong world-building, and a compelling plot that kept me turning the pages.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was amazing. Start to finish, I absolutely loved it. If you’re a fan of books like Anathema, House of Salt and Sorrows, or gothic romantasy in general, this is for you! Threnody will be the first in a duology and I am so excited to read the next book. Within the first few pages you feel drawn into the haunting setting. Cas E. Crowe does an incredible job of blending unease into even the lightest parts of this story. You never quite feel like you have the upperhand as a reader. When I would come up with theories, I was usually proved entirely wrong.
I flew through this book in about half of a day, which even for me, as a fast reader, was crazy. . I've been hoping to find a dark gothic fantasy read that had ocean elements or mermaids all summer. This book delivered on all of it. The setting and character descriptions are eerie and some even gave me goosebumps. I could picture the creatures and the sounds they made, and when “hunting” happened in the story I was absolutely stressed alongside the characters.
One of my favorite things about this book is that you never fully know who you can trust or even what the main character will do throughout the story.
This book is an epic dark fantasy with horror elements and a romance subplot. I have rated this five stars, as it is absolutely an all time favorite book for me. I highly recommend reading Threnody by Cas E. Crowe!
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.**
I flew through this book in about half of a day, which even for me, as a fast reader, was crazy. . I've been hoping to find a dark gothic fantasy read that had ocean elements or mermaids all summer. This book delivered on all of it. The setting and character descriptions are eerie and some even gave me goosebumps. I could picture the creatures and the sounds they made, and when “hunting” happened in the story I was absolutely stressed alongside the characters.
One of my favorite things about this book is that you never fully know who you can trust or even what the main character will do throughout the story.
This book is an epic dark fantasy with horror elements and a romance subplot. I have rated this five stars, as it is absolutely an all time favorite book for me. I highly recommend reading Threnody by Cas E. Crowe!
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.**
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.25! I'm going to start with what I loved, which was the eerie dark world this author created. The atmosphere and energy she was able to make through her writing was truly amazing. It was just so vivid to imagine without being over descriptive by any means. Also I have to say, the first chapter was one of the most attention gripping first chapters I've ever read. You're instantly pulled into chaos and you just keep turning the page faster because you want to know what the heck is going on. The pacing was good and the plot was incredible and unique to me.
With those things being said, they weigh heavily into my 4.25 because they were that good. The only tough part was not having more Archie POVs, I think the reader needed a few, not to spoil plot but maybe to demonstrate some tiny seeds of *he may be attracted to her* or when feelings start to change. We are locked into our FMC's POV, who is very naive. The small issue that creates is we are screaming at our kindles at some of her choices lol. The other small issue is that Archie's affection is pretty absent for most of the book and US (the reader) in her POV, it comes out of left field. I will say the author stuck with her naivety perfectly which is a testament to her talent, because our FMC wouldn't include a "heated stare" or "he was looking at my lips for seemingly far too long" in her thoughts because she wouldn't recognize those things. So yes, even just 3 more Archie POVs, would have really worked well for this book. But I'm still so so excited for the next book and will definitely read!
With those things being said, they weigh heavily into my 4.25 because they were that good. The only tough part was not having more Archie POVs, I think the reader needed a few, not to spoil plot but maybe to demonstrate some tiny seeds of *he may be attracted to her* or when feelings start to change. We are locked into our FMC's POV, who is very naive. The small issue that creates is we are screaming at our kindles at some of her choices lol. The other small issue is that Archie's affection is pretty absent for most of the book and US (the reader) in her POV, it comes out of left field. I will say the author stuck with her naivety perfectly which is a testament to her talent, because our FMC wouldn't include a "heated stare" or "he was looking at my lips for seemingly far too long" in her thoughts because she wouldn't recognize those things. So yes, even just 3 more Archie POVs, would have really worked well for this book. But I'm still so so excited for the next book and will definitely read!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Cas E. Crowe and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy.
I absolutely loved the dark, gothic atmosphere of this book. I haven't read many stories that focus on the sea, so this felt really unique. The plot quickly pulled me in, and while I knew something big was coming, I never expected the direction it took.
The story follows our FMC, Ezra, whose ship is lost to the sirens lurking beneath the waves. After she's rescued by a villager named Archie, she soon discovers that the village is cursed and once you're there, you can't leave.
This is very much a slow-burn romance, but it was the individual character journeys that really captivated me. Ezra has lived an incredibly sheltered life, and it shows in everything she does, from believing everything must be proper therefore refusing to be alone in a room with a man. Watching her grow throughout the story was one of my favourite parts, and I'm so excited to see where her journey goes in the sequel.
Archie, on the other hand, is rough around the edges, carrying a heartbreaking past that slowly unfolds. His story was emotional, and I loved getting to know him more with every chapter.
I already can't wait for the sequel. I have plenty of theories about what happens next, but after all the twists this book threw at me, I'm convinced I'm going to be completely wrong!
If you enjoy gothic fantasy, eerie seaside settings, sirens, a genuinely slow-burn romance, and plenty of unexpected twists, this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
I absolutely loved the dark, gothic atmosphere of this book. I haven't read many stories that focus on the sea, so this felt really unique. The plot quickly pulled me in, and while I knew something big was coming, I never expected the direction it took.
The story follows our FMC, Ezra, whose ship is lost to the sirens lurking beneath the waves. After she's rescued by a villager named Archie, she soon discovers that the village is cursed and once you're there, you can't leave.
This is very much a slow-burn romance, but it was the individual character journeys that really captivated me. Ezra has lived an incredibly sheltered life, and it shows in everything she does, from believing everything must be proper therefore refusing to be alone in a room with a man. Watching her grow throughout the story was one of my favourite parts, and I'm so excited to see where her journey goes in the sequel.
Archie, on the other hand, is rough around the edges, carrying a heartbreaking past that slowly unfolds. His story was emotional, and I loved getting to know him more with every chapter.
I already can't wait for the sequel. I have plenty of theories about what happens next, but after all the twists this book threw at me, I'm convinced I'm going to be completely wrong!
If you enjoy gothic fantasy, eerie seaside settings, sirens, a genuinely slow-burn romance, and plenty of unexpected twists, this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book was a breath of fresh (well, grimy and rotten and briny) air. The island of Port Calliope Bay felt so deliciously ominous, with thick fog, haunted woods, violent storms, and monsters prowling in the night. I loved the concept of the sirens only being able to walk the island when it's dark and damp (which is nearly all the time because wow, the weather there is awful) and lulling you into the ocean if you ventured outside unprepared. The setting was so different to anything else I've read recently, and I absolutely ate it up.
I found Ezra to be a really interesting and believable FMC - naïve and easily swayed after a sheltered childhood, not particularly level-headed or reliable, but strong, determined, and always willing to throw herself wholeheartedly into whatever course of action she'd decided on.
Archie, meanwhile, gave me bad vibes from the very beginning. The man was so quick to anger, casually cruel, and intensely secretive that I spent half the book internally screaming at Ezra not to get romantically involved with him. But I guess his abs were just too enthralling 😅. With the way things ended between them though, I can't wait to see how their relationship develops in the next book.
One of my favourite things about the story was that, right until the end, I was still questioning who could actually be trusted. That constant uncertainty made it such a gripping read, and I'm really looking forward to seeing where the series goes next. Thanks to the author and NetGalley for the arc <3
I found Ezra to be a really interesting and believable FMC - naïve and easily swayed after a sheltered childhood, not particularly level-headed or reliable, but strong, determined, and always willing to throw herself wholeheartedly into whatever course of action she'd decided on.
Archie, meanwhile, gave me bad vibes from the very beginning. The man was so quick to anger, casually cruel, and intensely secretive that I spent half the book internally screaming at Ezra not to get romantically involved with him. But I guess his abs were just too enthralling 😅. With the way things ended between them though, I can't wait to see how their relationship develops in the next book.
One of my favourite things about the story was that, right until the end, I was still questioning who could actually be trusted. That constant uncertainty made it such a gripping read, and I'm really looking forward to seeing where the series goes next. Thanks to the author and NetGalley for the arc <3
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you, at NetGalley, and author, Cas E. Crowe, for the ARC read of Threnody (The Salt and Song Duology)! I DEVOURED this book in two days and will wait semi-impatiently for book two! This book has everything I have been wanting in a dark romantasy about the sea and the evil that can lurk in the dark waters. If you have been craving a book that encompasses slow-burn romance, sirens, a sea god, pirates, and ghosts, in a gothic setting, then I can't recommend this book enough. The FMC, Ezra, begins as a sheltered, soft, young woman who survives a wave that destroys the ship taking her to her betrothed. Ezra never seems quite sure of herself and her decisions, as if she does not quite know who she really is. She prevails, and survives near death experiences and the perils of being a stranger in a cruel town. Ezra ultimately finds her voice and her power, but does not lose the goodness that makes her character kind and someone you want to find happiness. There are multiple reasons the plot of this book kept me hooked. The MMC, Archie, is open about his devotion to his lost love. He rescues Ezra multiple times and invites her on his quest to find the three treasures necessary to leave the town and be free from the sirens. The author keeps the perfect air of mystery, and the reader, along with Ezra, is never quite sure whom to trust. The ending will leave you kicking your feet and needing to read the next book in this duology!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Firstly, I want to say thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC copy of this enthralling book. It has been a privilege to get to read this before it's been released.
Threnody is a dark gothic style novel. It follows Ezra as she washes upon this strange island after a shipwreck caused by sirens. Where she then meets Archie and is taken back to his manor, where things really begin to unravel. Nothing is as it seems. A Siren King, a scavenger hunt for the lost crown, hidden intentions and pasts. It all leaves you reeling for more. You tell yourself, "Just one more chapter", and before you know it, you've read the entire book.
Archie and Ezra set out to defeat the sirens and the Siren King, doing all they can to survive in this epic novel full of plot twists where nothing is as it seems. The ending was an absolute shock. I truly did not anticipate any of those events to happen, let alone all of them happening! Not to mention, poor Rosie.
The author, Cas E. Crowe, does an amazing job in her writing to where I am almost certain I'm in the book, not just reading it. This book gave me chills, making it a perfect read for spooky season.
It is a super slow burn, and I do wish we got to see more spark between Archie and Ezra, however I am extremely excited for book two, especially after the epic cliffhanger we left off on with this book.
Threnody is a dark gothic style novel. It follows Ezra as she washes upon this strange island after a shipwreck caused by sirens. Where she then meets Archie and is taken back to his manor, where things really begin to unravel. Nothing is as it seems. A Siren King, a scavenger hunt for the lost crown, hidden intentions and pasts. It all leaves you reeling for more. You tell yourself, "Just one more chapter", and before you know it, you've read the entire book.
Archie and Ezra set out to defeat the sirens and the Siren King, doing all they can to survive in this epic novel full of plot twists where nothing is as it seems. The ending was an absolute shock. I truly did not anticipate any of those events to happen, let alone all of them happening! Not to mention, poor Rosie.
The author, Cas E. Crowe, does an amazing job in her writing to where I am almost certain I'm in the book, not just reading it. This book gave me chills, making it a perfect read for spooky season.
It is a super slow burn, and I do wish we got to see more spark between Archie and Ezra, however I am extremely excited for book two, especially after the epic cliffhanger we left off on with this book.
Review of advance copy
I was really conflicted about this book… I keep gping back and forth between 3 - 3.5 ⭐️ I love the gothic vibes and the writing I had no issues with! It was well written and you felt really immersed in the story.
I think my thing is like I said in other reviews that I don’t really enjoy reading someone losing their virginity (I didnt know there was going to be there here otherwise I wouldve passed on it). I think it’s such a vulnerable type of situation and some other things thats more of a trauma issue for me… and I guess from the beginning you can tell theyre young but I thought a lot younger than 23 and 26 when the age did end up being revealed… more like 18 or something, so the fmc’s choices are very immature and naive. It was frustrating to read but I hope she has character growth in the next book.
Then there’s Archi, you already can’t trust him from the start so their relationship was such a slap to the face and he was so quick to “hate” her after everything idk I had a headache lol I cant even root for him tbh
Why Neptus gotta be blonde for 🥲 Is this a love triangle situation or is he an actual villain because I would hate for her to be tortured and all the other rumors of what Neptus does. Im hoping hes actually a good guy and this is a “villain gets the girl”trope and he teaches her how to be siren or something💀
I think my thing is like I said in other reviews that I don’t really enjoy reading someone losing their virginity (I didnt know there was going to be there here otherwise I wouldve passed on it). I think it’s such a vulnerable type of situation and some other things thats more of a trauma issue for me… and I guess from the beginning you can tell theyre young but I thought a lot younger than 23 and 26 when the age did end up being revealed… more like 18 or something, so the fmc’s choices are very immature and naive. It was frustrating to read but I hope she has character growth in the next book.
Then there’s Archi, you already can’t trust him from the start so their relationship was such a slap to the face and he was so quick to “hate” her after everything idk I had a headache lol I cant even root for him tbh
Why Neptus gotta be blonde for 🥲 Is this a love triangle situation or is he an actual villain because I would hate for her to be tortured and all the other rumors of what Neptus does. Im hoping hes actually a good guy and this is a “villain gets the girl”trope and he teaches her how to be siren or something💀
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4⭐️ I enjoyed this gothic fantasy. We meet an orphan FMC, Ezra, as she washes up on an island after a shipwreck. She is quickly taken in by a strange family in a local manor and starts to realize things are not as they seem. The local guards are dangerous and sinister, and people die every month in a strange ritual sea sacrifice. She realizes there is a curse on the island and goes on a quest to unravel mysteries so she can leave the island and go on with her life once and for all. The problem is, the sea calls to her. When she realizes why it’s far too late.
I really liked the main mystery of the book, and the gothic moody atmosphere on the decaying island. I would not consider this a romantasy, as the book would stand alone without the romance. That said, the romance added a solid tension and complication to our FMC’s struggles to figure out who to trust to escape the doomed isle. IMO the main love interest left much to be desired. Here’s to hoping he is not the final love… I, for one, would not mind a twist with a certain oceanic entity instead. 😇 Looking forward to book two of this duology. Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC!
I really liked the main mystery of the book, and the gothic moody atmosphere on the decaying island. I would not consider this a romantasy, as the book would stand alone without the romance. That said, the romance added a solid tension and complication to our FMC’s struggles to figure out who to trust to escape the doomed isle. IMO the main love interest left much to be desired. Here’s to hoping he is not the final love… I, for one, would not mind a twist with a certain oceanic entity instead. 😇 Looking forward to book two of this duology. Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC!
July 23, 2026
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pirates, sirens, secrets and a spooky island with a gothic mansion and ghosts? Sign me up! This was a wonderful romantasy, it checked all the boxes for me especially the story, there are so many twists and turns and it’s impossible to know what the author has cooked up.
One of the easiest fantasies I’ve stepped into, it gets started right from the first chapter and it doesn’t stop. The action is nonstop as the mystery slowly unfurls. The siren songs made me think of “One Dark Window” with the poetic rhymes and prose, if you are a fan of that one, there are a lot of similarities in both the tone and content of both books.
I’m actually sad that I have to wait for the second book seeing as this one isn’t even actually out yet. Definitely not one to be missed come October! This is one of those rare books where the cover (which initially snagged my attention) matches the book. Judge this one by it!
Thank you to the author Cas E. Crowe for the early reader copy and the opportunity to indulge in this story with Archie and Ezra. Can’t wait for the second one! This review is my honest opinion.
Pirates, sirens, secrets and a spooky island with a gothic mansion and ghosts? Sign me up! This was a wonderful romantasy, it checked all the boxes for me especially the story, there are so many twists and turns and it’s impossible to know what the author has cooked up.
One of the easiest fantasies I’ve stepped into, it gets started right from the first chapter and it doesn’t stop. The action is nonstop as the mystery slowly unfurls. The siren songs made me think of “One Dark Window” with the poetic rhymes and prose, if you are a fan of that one, there are a lot of similarities in both the tone and content of both books.
I’m actually sad that I have to wait for the second book seeing as this one isn’t even actually out yet. Definitely not one to be missed come October! This is one of those rare books where the cover (which initially snagged my attention) matches the book. Judge this one by it!
Thank you to the author Cas E. Crowe for the early reader copy and the opportunity to indulge in this story with Archie and Ezra. Can’t wait for the second one! This review is my honest opinion.
netgalleyarcs
August 4, 2026A cursed island, haunting sirens, ancient secrets, and a shipwrecked heroine? It has all the ingredients for an irresistible gothic romantasy.
Ezra is a protagonist worth rooting for, thrust into a terrifying world where survival is never guaranteed. Archie is exactly the kind of morally gray hero I love—charming, mysterious, and clearly hiding dangerous secrets that promise plenty of emotional tension. Their slow-burn romance feels like it will be every bit as captivating as the island's eerie mythology.
The atmospheric setting is what stands out most. Between the cursed waters, ritual sacrifices, haunting songs, and the looming mystery surrounding Ezra's connection to the sea, the story promises an immersive blend of suspense, romance, and dark fantasy. The idea that some curses are meant to be fulfilled rather than broken adds an intriguing twist that makes me want to know what happens next.
If you enjoy gothic fantasy filled with sirens, forbidden romance, ancient magic, and morally gray love interests, this looks like a duet that's impossible to put down. It promises mystery, danger, and just the right amount of steam wrapped in a beautifully haunting atmosphere.
Ezra is a protagonist worth rooting for, thrust into a terrifying world where survival is never guaranteed. Archie is exactly the kind of morally gray hero I love—charming, mysterious, and clearly hiding dangerous secrets that promise plenty of emotional tension. Their slow-burn romance feels like it will be every bit as captivating as the island's eerie mythology.
The atmospheric setting is what stands out most. Between the cursed waters, ritual sacrifices, haunting songs, and the looming mystery surrounding Ezra's connection to the sea, the story promises an immersive blend of suspense, romance, and dark fantasy. The idea that some curses are meant to be fulfilled rather than broken adds an intriguing twist that makes me want to know what happens next.
If you enjoy gothic fantasy filled with sirens, forbidden romance, ancient magic, and morally gray love interests, this looks like a duet that's impossible to put down. It promises mystery, danger, and just the right amount of steam wrapped in a beautifully haunting atmosphere.
July 20, 2026
I received an advanced copy from the author. However, this review is completely voluntary and honest.
The relationship between the fmc and mmc is tenuous, and I believe that is what made this book good. Both of these characters hold secrets to themselves like food for a starving man. They are not shy from using information as metophorical ammunition against each other. This deliciously complements the angst around the lore when the mmc is truly morally grey. He follows his own twisted moral codes that often clash with my characters in the book. The fmc is more than likeable that I am rooting for her from the start until finish.
The pacing of this book is fast, and I do not feel at any point in the story where the tension is not exponentially escalating. Be warned, there are many mature themes and language used in this one. So, read at your discretion. I also do not recommend this book for a younger audience. All in all, this book is macabre and hauntingly written. I give it a solid four-star rating.
The relationship between the fmc and mmc is tenuous, and I believe that is what made this book good. Both of these characters hold secrets to themselves like food for a starving man. They are not shy from using information as metophorical ammunition against each other. This deliciously complements the angst around the lore when the mmc is truly morally grey. He follows his own twisted moral codes that often clash with my characters in the book. The fmc is more than likeable that I am rooting for her from the start until finish.
The pacing of this book is fast, and I do not feel at any point in the story where the tension is not exponentially escalating. Be warned, there are many mature themes and language used in this one. So, read at your discretion. I also do not recommend this book for a younger audience. All in all, this book is macabre and hauntingly written. I give it a solid four-star rating.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley, Can E. Crowe & Publishers for sharing this ARC!
Threnody was one of those books that quietly pulled me in until I realized I couldn't stop reading.
The writing was easily my favorite part. It has a lyrical, almost haunting quality that fits the atmosphere of the story perfectly without feeling overdone. Every chapter flowed naturally, and there were so many lines that made me pause just to appreciate how beautifully they were written. It's the kind of prose that adds to the emotion instead of distracting from it.
I also appreciated that the story took its time. Rather than rushing through major moments, it allowed the characters and the world to breathe, which made the emotional beats land even harder. It felt immersive from beginning to end.
If you enjoy atmospheric fantasy with beautiful prose and a story that lingers long after you've finished, I definitely recommend giving *Threnody* a chance. It's the kind of book that reminds you how powerful good writing can be.
I'm looking forward to seeing what this author writes next.
3.75 ⭐️
Threnody was one of those books that quietly pulled me in until I realized I couldn't stop reading.
The writing was easily my favorite part. It has a lyrical, almost haunting quality that fits the atmosphere of the story perfectly without feeling overdone. Every chapter flowed naturally, and there were so many lines that made me pause just to appreciate how beautifully they were written. It's the kind of prose that adds to the emotion instead of distracting from it.
I also appreciated that the story took its time. Rather than rushing through major moments, it allowed the characters and the world to breathe, which made the emotional beats land even harder. It felt immersive from beginning to end.
If you enjoy atmospheric fantasy with beautiful prose and a story that lingers long after you've finished, I definitely recommend giving *Threnody* a chance. It's the kind of book that reminds you how powerful good writing can be.
I'm looking forward to seeing what this author writes next.
3.75 ⭐️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book kept me hooked from start to finish. The overall plot and the backstory completely pulled me in, and I found myself constantly needing to know how everything was going to unfold. The mysteries behind the island were so well crafted, and the tension had me turning the pages way faster than I expected.
My only real issue was the romance between Ezra and Archie, which unfortunately fell flat for me. I needed a lot more spark and more time for their relationship to actually develop. I couldn't really feel a connection between them or understand the foundation for it. They barely talked, the chemistry didn't feel like it grew naturally, and as a result, that whole aspect felt a bit forced.
Still, the sheer strength of the storyline, the atmospheric setting, and the mystery made it a solid read. Definitely worth picking up!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
My only real issue was the romance between Ezra and Archie, which unfortunately fell flat for me. I needed a lot more spark and more time for their relationship to actually develop. I couldn't really feel a connection between them or understand the foundation for it. They barely talked, the chemistry didn't feel like it grew naturally, and as a result, that whole aspect felt a bit forced.
Still, the sheer strength of the storyline, the atmospheric setting, and the mystery made it a solid read. Definitely worth picking up!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley, publisher and Cas E Crowe for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review!
For as long as I can remember I love everything related to sirens, so much so that I have a tattoo of one, so when I saw that they were the subject of this book I had to request it!
I really liked that the book immediatly dives in (pun intented) to the action. I really loved Ezra as a character, she was a bit naive sometimes but that was because of her sheltered upbringing, it would have been very strange if she was cunning from the start. I loved her character development because it felt very genuine. The atmosphere was very gothic and haunting and I loved it. It is a romantasy with horror elements and I loved that because I love both genres. If you are not a horror lover I still think you will enjoy this book, so I would definitly give it a chance especially if you live sirenlore as much as I do!
For as long as I can remember I love everything related to sirens, so much so that I have a tattoo of one, so when I saw that they were the subject of this book I had to request it!
I really liked that the book immediatly dives in (pun intented) to the action. I really loved Ezra as a character, she was a bit naive sometimes but that was because of her sheltered upbringing, it would have been very strange if she was cunning from the start. I loved her character development because it felt very genuine. The atmosphere was very gothic and haunting and I loved it. It is a romantasy with horror elements and I loved that because I love both genres. If you are not a horror lover I still think you will enjoy this book, so I would definitly give it a chance especially if you live sirenlore as much as I do!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In this eerie gothic novel we meet Ezra and Archie. Their quest to defeat the sirens and Siren King was captivating. I enjoyed how each character had their own story that showed how they became jaded. The detail of each character small or big was given so much detail, I could picture exactly what the they looked like down to the landscape around them. Ms. Crowe did an amazing job drawing her readers into Ezra and Archie’s story. It was a slow burn novel that kept you guessing and coming back for more. The romance was slowly built but a great story in itself. Even when I was not reading my mind was on how invested I was in the story. I cannot wait for book #2 to be published and to hear what the tides have to say about Ezra and Archie’s story.
Thank you Ms. Crowe, NetGalley, and the Publisher for allowing me to read this novel when it was an arc.
Thank you Ms. Crowe, NetGalley, and the Publisher for allowing me to read this novel when it was an arc.
July 15, 2026
Threnody was incredibly spooky, to the point where I couldn’t read it at night. It follows Ezra Thorne, who was traveling on a ship before it was wrecked. Archie Abrams is a too curious and very charming MMC who helps Ezra out many times. I honestly felt like this book was a wild ride that I couldn’t predict. It was very slow burn and the characters first kiss was almost 3/4 into the book. Everyone in the book made questionable decisions but it just added to the uncertainty and eerie vibe. Although it ended on a cliffhanger, I am quite excited to see where the story goes and how the characters are redeemed (if they are)! I would recommend this to people who love a good slow burn gothic fantasy. Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!
I had no idea what to expect going into this book! I just knew the cover was cool and the description was super interesting.
This story was a refreshing take on sirens and even pirates (more so the history of the pirates). I can say I didnt trust a lot of people in this story one bit and I was right about most of them! All I can say is poor Ezra!
If you pay close enough attention to the characters and storyline, you can kinda figure some things out. But there were still other dots I didnt connect that took me pleasantly by surprise by the end. I wouldn't necessarily say this book had a happy ending, but it had enough to set up for the next book and I'm so ready!
I had no idea what to expect going into this book! I just knew the cover was cool and the description was super interesting.
This story was a refreshing take on sirens and even pirates (more so the history of the pirates). I can say I didnt trust a lot of people in this story one bit and I was right about most of them! All I can say is poor Ezra!
If you pay close enough attention to the characters and storyline, you can kinda figure some things out. But there were still other dots I didnt connect that took me pleasantly by surprise by the end. I wouldn't necessarily say this book had a happy ending, but it had enough to set up for the next book and I'm so ready!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book was such a good surprise for me. I went in not knowing exactly what to expect, but it pulled me in and kept me hooked from the beginning. I loved the dark and haunting atmosphere, and the way the story made me feel so many emotions while reading. The characters really stood out, and I found myself caring about their struggles and what would happen next. There were moments that had me stressed, emotional, and completely invested in the journey. By the time I reached the ending, I wasn’t ready to say goodbye. The finale left me with so many feelings, and this was an easy five stars read for me. I want book 2.
July 31, 2026
Hauntingly eerie, sirens, pirates and a cursed island.
If anyone has watched widow bay that’s the way I imagined this book playing out in my mind, except older.
Really enjoyed dipping my toes into the sea. Cant think of the last time I read a sea based fantasy book. So I enjoyed the spookiness of the sirens and curses.
Unfortunately I feel I didn’t really connect or particularly like the fmc and wasn’t particularly invested in her relationship with mmc. But the ending most definitely peaked my interest and I’m curious to see how the story develops on book 2.
thank you netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review
If anyone has watched widow bay that’s the way I imagined this book playing out in my mind, except older.
Really enjoyed dipping my toes into the sea. Cant think of the last time I read a sea based fantasy book. So I enjoyed the spookiness of the sirens and curses.
Unfortunately I feel I didn’t really connect or particularly like the fmc and wasn’t particularly invested in her relationship with mmc. But the ending most definitely peaked my interest and I’m curious to see how the story develops on book 2.
thank you netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review
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