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Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas
Fate will not be denied.
Nerissa thinks she’s safe from the gods and elders that rule her village. She’s wrong. It’s only a matter of time before she is chosen to pay the ultimate price—her life.
For decades, the gods have protected the small seaside village where she lives. That’s about to end. Fishermen return with empty nets, trees cease to bear fruit, and the winds whisper of an ancient curse. There’s still hope that the offering of an unmarried woman will return the god’s favor.
As the maiden sacrifice nears Nerissa takes matters into her hands. All she needs is a husband to escape the terms of the offering. When she meets Zeer, a visiting fisherman, he sweeps her off her feet.
Are her prayers truly answered?
Everyone around her is keeping secrets, and there is no one left to rely on but herself. As the night ushers in a violent storm that echoes the god’s anger, she realizes the worst is yet to come. When the first rays of dawn arrive, a knock sounds at her door and she knows her entire world is about to turn upside down.
Nerissa thinks she’s safe from the gods and elders that rule her village. She’s wrong. It’s only a matter of time before she is chosen to pay the ultimate price—her life.
For decades, the gods have protected the small seaside village where she lives. That’s about to end. Fishermen return with empty nets, trees cease to bear fruit, and the winds whisper of an ancient curse. There’s still hope that the offering of an unmarried woman will return the god’s favor.
As the maiden sacrifice nears Nerissa takes matters into her hands. All she needs is a husband to escape the terms of the offering. When she meets Zeer, a visiting fisherman, he sweeps her off her feet.
Are her prayers truly answered?
Everyone around her is keeping secrets, and there is no one left to rely on but herself. As the night ushers in a violent storm that echoes the god’s anger, she realizes the worst is yet to come. When the first rays of dawn arrive, a knock sounds at her door and she knows her entire world is about to turn upside down.
273 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 26, 2026
About the author
Amy McKinley
38 books591 followersAmy McKinley is the USA Today bestselling author of the romantic suspense thriller Gray Ghost Novels, Deadly Isles Special Ops, Mafia Elite, Moonlit Destination, Five Fates paranormal romance, and several standalone titles. Her edge-of-your-seat books are filled with surprising twists and just the right amount of heat and danger. She lives in Illinois with her husband, two daughters, two sons, and three mischievous cats. You can find her at www.AmyMcKinley.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
September 7, 2026
4 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Siren's Call is a paranormal romance filled with magic, suspense, intrigue, curses, action and I love the inclusion of Greek Mythology. I really enjoyed the story of Nerissa and Zeer...from the initial meeting between them to the challenges of what could pulled them apart. There is unrest, secrets, betrayals... but also some twists along the way. Nerissa must decipher who she can trust when the village she lives in believes in offerings to the Gods...and she is the target.
I was drawn to this beautiful cover and excited to read this story from one of my favorite authors.
If you love paranormal romance, I would highly recommend this book.
Siren's Call is a paranormal romance filled with magic, suspense, intrigue, curses, action and I love the inclusion of Greek Mythology. I really enjoyed the story of Nerissa and Zeer...from the initial meeting between them to the challenges of what could pulled them apart. There is unrest, secrets, betrayals... but also some twists along the way. Nerissa must decipher who she can trust when the village she lives in believes in offerings to the Gods...and she is the target.
I was drawn to this beautiful cover and excited to read this story from one of my favorite authors.
If you love paranormal romance, I would highly recommend this book.
Currently Reading
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August 27, 2026
The future for Nerissa is marriage to a man she knows will never make her happy. Hoping her father finds her an alternative to wed, she bides her time. Nerissa meets Zeer though and thinks this is her turning point, but the gods are restless and her village seems to know something she doesn't. What happens when she finds out what this is and who can she trust?
This surprised me, edge of your seat fantasy story. Really well done, reminded me of some old mythology stories, the way it is written I could imagine every scene.
This surprised me, edge of your seat fantasy story. Really well done, reminded me of some old mythology stories, the way it is written I could imagine every scene.
August 8, 2019
4 Stars
Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley is a Paranormal Romance- with fantasy, ancient curses, Gods, secrets, action, intrigue, magic, suspense, a mysterious arm band, drama, Greek Mythology/legends, and adventure.
I love Ms. McKinley’s books, and was really excited to see she had once more ventured into the paranormal romance realm, with Greek mythology as the basis of her story. I adore her Five Fates Series, and so I was really intrigued to see what she would do with this storyline. As I began this journey, I was immediately immersed in the wonderful and imaginative world that Ms. McKinley has so cleverly crafted- losing myself in this great story.
The characters are complex and well developed. They were easy to like, even though they frustrated me quite a bit at times- especially Zeer!
I loved the intriguing and original take on Greek Mythology, and it added an extra element of interest to the whole story. It was just a little slow to get going, as all the foundations and character introductions were made. Once the pace picked up, I was completely enthralled b the story.
I am quite curious to see what Ms. McKinley has got in store for us next, but whatever it is there is no doubt I am going to love it!
Thank you, Ms. McKinley!
Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley is a Paranormal Romance- with fantasy, ancient curses, Gods, secrets, action, intrigue, magic, suspense, a mysterious arm band, drama, Greek Mythology/legends, and adventure.
I love Ms. McKinley’s books, and was really excited to see she had once more ventured into the paranormal romance realm, with Greek mythology as the basis of her story. I adore her Five Fates Series, and so I was really intrigued to see what she would do with this storyline. As I began this journey, I was immediately immersed in the wonderful and imaginative world that Ms. McKinley has so cleverly crafted- losing myself in this great story.
The characters are complex and well developed. They were easy to like, even though they frustrated me quite a bit at times- especially Zeer!
I loved the intriguing and original take on Greek Mythology, and it added an extra element of interest to the whole story. It was just a little slow to get going, as all the foundations and character introductions were made. Once the pace picked up, I was completely enthralled b the story.
I am quite curious to see what Ms. McKinley has got in store for us next, but whatever it is there is no doubt I am going to love it!
Thank you, Ms. McKinley!
August 7, 2019
Siren's Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley is a YA read that kept me turning page after page and had me hooked. It is well written and vividly detailed as we journey along in this mystical world with the mythical characters that Amy created. The plot is engaging and is uniquely complex as we deal with all the parts being woven together.
I don’t want to spoil if for you so I will not give you any spoilers.
What I will say is that you will not be disappointed.
I don’t want to spoil if for you so I will not give you any spoilers.
What I will say is that you will not be disappointed.
August 14, 2019
Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas was a great 4 star read.
We get all sorts of things in this Paranormal romance.
Nerissa lives in a fishing village with her father. Her father has plans to marry her off but Nerissa has other plans in mind. She is adamant to find a man of her choosing before her father forces her to marry. Things take an interesting twist when the villagers get it in their minds that offering an unmarried woman will help with the gods.
When a stranger comes to the village (Zeer), Nerissa finds herself falling for him. Can he help her get out of her predicament?
There is so much more to this book, your head will be spinning.
Amy McKinley does a great job with her writing, the detail was wonderful and you felt like you were right there with the characters. There were several twists and turns, I felt like I was done before I knew it. The secondary characters added a great element to the story. 1-click and get started today, you will love it.
We get all sorts of things in this Paranormal romance.
Nerissa lives in a fishing village with her father. Her father has plans to marry her off but Nerissa has other plans in mind. She is adamant to find a man of her choosing before her father forces her to marry. Things take an interesting twist when the villagers get it in their minds that offering an unmarried woman will help with the gods.
When a stranger comes to the village (Zeer), Nerissa finds herself falling for him. Can he help her get out of her predicament?
There is so much more to this book, your head will be spinning.
Amy McKinley does a great job with her writing, the detail was wonderful and you felt like you were right there with the characters. There were several twists and turns, I felt like I was done before I knew it. The secondary characters added a great element to the story. 1-click and get started today, you will love it.
September 4, 2026
Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley.
4 of 5 Stars.
An enjoyable and engaging fantasy romance which kept me happily turning the pages. First of all I love the eye catching new cover! For decades the gods have protected the seaside village where Nerissa lives. However, when fisherman return with empty nets and trees don’t have any fruit, the locals whisper of an ancient curse. The cure for that curse is the offering of an unmarried woman in return for the god’s favour. Nerissa decides that she needs a husband, and fast, before the maiden sacrifice. She believes her prayers have been answered when she meets a visiting fisherman, Zeer. Everyone seems to be keeping secrets and when a violent storm the sweeps through the village, the locals believe it is echoing the god’s anger. Once the storm has passed, Nerissa hears a knock on her door and knows that her world is about to change for ever. I found Nerissa to be a very likeable and relatable character, and I liked how she wasn’t going to let others dictate her life for her. The intriguing storyline and plot twists made this a real page turner.
4 of 5 Stars.
An enjoyable and engaging fantasy romance which kept me happily turning the pages. First of all I love the eye catching new cover! For decades the gods have protected the seaside village where Nerissa lives. However, when fisherman return with empty nets and trees don’t have any fruit, the locals whisper of an ancient curse. The cure for that curse is the offering of an unmarried woman in return for the god’s favour. Nerissa decides that she needs a husband, and fast, before the maiden sacrifice. She believes her prayers have been answered when she meets a visiting fisherman, Zeer. Everyone seems to be keeping secrets and when a violent storm the sweeps through the village, the locals believe it is echoing the god’s anger. Once the storm has passed, Nerissa hears a knock on her door and knows that her world is about to change for ever. I found Nerissa to be a very likeable and relatable character, and I liked how she wasn’t going to let others dictate her life for her. The intriguing storyline and plot twists made this a real page turner.
September 2, 2026
Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley
4 Stars
I love Greek mythology, so I was really excited to dive into this book and honestly, it did not disappoint.
I really loved that this story included beings that we don’t always see explored in books, like mermaids, sirens, and sea witches. The story is a fun mixture of legends and gods, with plenty of action and drama, plus a few twists thrown in to keep things interesting.
I have read other books by Amy McKinley, and I can honestly say this is easily one of my favourites by her. If you enjoy mythology, magical beings, action, and a little mystery mixed into the story, this one is worth checking out!
4 Stars
I love Greek mythology, so I was really excited to dive into this book and honestly, it did not disappoint.
I really loved that this story included beings that we don’t always see explored in books, like mermaids, sirens, and sea witches. The story is a fun mixture of legends and gods, with plenty of action and drama, plus a few twists thrown in to keep things interesting.
I have read other books by Amy McKinley, and I can honestly say this is easily one of my favourites by her. If you enjoy mythology, magical beings, action, and a little mystery mixed into the story, this one is worth checking out!
September 4, 2026
McKinley excels at writing romance that feels both tender and fierce. The ocean setting isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a character, shaping the plot and the emotional journey. The curse adds urgency, but the heart of the story is the relationship: two people learning to trust, to fight, and to choose each other even when the odds are stacked against them.
August 10, 2019
A great read about the sea. Nerissa is a fisherman's daughter living in ancient Greece. One day, her father returns home with no fish, sparking rumors of a legend and bad omens across the village. While he is gone, Nerissa faces the prospect of finding someone to marry before she is forced into a marriage with an abusive man named Cete. Can she find a solution to her problems?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn't put down. Well developed characters like Nerissa standing up for herself but anxious underneath or Zeer mysterious but caring underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the fun friend Eirene or the cruel Cete.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the storm and its rain and wind for a sense of danger and foreboding events and also a sense of beauty to it aswell. Or the sense of the grecian town with its cobbled streets and colourful markets full of sounds and smells and wares. Or Poseidons kingdom later on with its hidden world full of magic and wonder with colourful jewels and marvellous palaces wonderfully written.
The switch of perspectives was done well to display both sides of the story and was easy to follow with names in the chapters. Also loved how it brought the reader straight into the action with the storm in the prologue I .
grabbing the readers attention from the start. I also liked the sense of mystery with the legend, giving it a magical sense and making you wnat to read on to find out what happens. A wonderful example of world building with fantatsical beings and gods living alongside humanity with their own rules and laws and societies. I loved the use of mythology with Poseidon and mermaids and sirens given the respect they deserve and true to their origins. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn't put down. Well developed characters like Nerissa standing up for herself but anxious underneath or Zeer mysterious but caring underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the fun friend Eirene or the cruel Cete.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the storm and its rain and wind for a sense of danger and foreboding events and also a sense of beauty to it aswell. Or the sense of the grecian town with its cobbled streets and colourful markets full of sounds and smells and wares. Or Poseidons kingdom later on with its hidden world full of magic and wonder with colourful jewels and marvellous palaces wonderfully written.
The switch of perspectives was done well to display both sides of the story and was easy to follow with names in the chapters. Also loved how it brought the reader straight into the action with the storm in the prologue I .
grabbing the readers attention from the start. I also liked the sense of mystery with the legend, giving it a magical sense and making you wnat to read on to find out what happens. A wonderful example of world building with fantatsical beings and gods living alongside humanity with their own rules and laws and societies. I loved the use of mythology with Poseidon and mermaids and sirens given the respect they deserve and true to their origins. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars
October 22, 2019
A Long and Short Reviews "BEST BOOK"!
Love stories with strong female lead, mythology and siren lore, atmospheric settings, and all the feels? Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas doesn’t disappoint!
I picked this one up without having seen or heard any mention of it, but suddenly many of the people I follow in the book community started talking about it, and I could wait to start reading. They were right! I loved reading Nerissa’s story, which is well written, and impossible to put down!
Mrs. McKinley really knows how to hook a reader, and even from the first page, I found I wanted to know more, and couldn’t get enough! I flew through this one, and loved every minute, from the witty dialogue to the suspense and surprises, this book has a little of everything, and the romance added an interesting balance to all the chaos.
When I found this one, I was wanting a story that combined mythology, romance, and plenty of emotions to pull on my heart-strings, boy did Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas deliver! It also introduced my to a new author, and as mentioned, was a title I hadn’t heard of before, so it was extra exciting how much I enjoyed it!
This story is perfect for fans of paranormal/fantasy romances written for upper YA readers who enjoy siren/mermaid lore, and stories set on or near the sea! I loved reading this one, and highly recommend it to readers who are looking for their next read! You know a book is good when it has both characters you can’t help but love, and those you love to hate! With complex personalities, and some well placed snark, these characters take on a life of their own, and I’d love to see similar stories from Mrs. Amy McKinley in the future!
Love stories with strong female lead, mythology and siren lore, atmospheric settings, and all the feels? Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas doesn’t disappoint!
I picked this one up without having seen or heard any mention of it, but suddenly many of the people I follow in the book community started talking about it, and I could wait to start reading. They were right! I loved reading Nerissa’s story, which is well written, and impossible to put down!
Mrs. McKinley really knows how to hook a reader, and even from the first page, I found I wanted to know more, and couldn’t get enough! I flew through this one, and loved every minute, from the witty dialogue to the suspense and surprises, this book has a little of everything, and the romance added an interesting balance to all the chaos.
When I found this one, I was wanting a story that combined mythology, romance, and plenty of emotions to pull on my heart-strings, boy did Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas deliver! It also introduced my to a new author, and as mentioned, was a title I hadn’t heard of before, so it was extra exciting how much I enjoyed it!
This story is perfect for fans of paranormal/fantasy romances written for upper YA readers who enjoy siren/mermaid lore, and stories set on or near the sea! I loved reading this one, and highly recommend it to readers who are looking for their next read! You know a book is good when it has both characters you can’t help but love, and those you love to hate! With complex personalities, and some well placed snark, these characters take on a life of their own, and I’d love to see similar stories from Mrs. Amy McKinley in the future!
August 10, 2019
I give Siren's Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley 5 stars.
This book was phenomenal! The story itself is so complex and woven into a delicate pattern of one girl's life and what she must endure. This book starts out as a girl living in a fishing village. She lives alone with her father and must be married off soon. Instead of letting her father have the complete choice, she decides to take matters into her own hands and find someone herself to coax into a good marriage. When a stranger comes along, she is swept off her feet. But he never mentions marriage.
This would be the end of some books, but there was so, so much more to go. I had no idea where this adventure would take me next. Turns out, I was on a train ride with so many twists and turns. There is an incredible amount of story that happens after this. I do not want to give any more away, but Nerissa learns just what she really is and the truth about those she loves. It seems everyone has lied to her. And you won't believe just how she handles this!
Besides the story itself, the characters are believable and interesting. I really liked Nerissa's friends and family. I would have liked to have seen more of Zeer's direct family though. They are mentioned and even explained who they are and their backstories, but I would have like to have seen them have a more interactive role in the story. But that is a small thing. This book blew me away and I highly recommend it to those who like to read about a strong female character in a fantasy/supernatural book.
This book was phenomenal! The story itself is so complex and woven into a delicate pattern of one girl's life and what she must endure. This book starts out as a girl living in a fishing village. She lives alone with her father and must be married off soon. Instead of letting her father have the complete choice, she decides to take matters into her own hands and find someone herself to coax into a good marriage. When a stranger comes along, she is swept off her feet. But he never mentions marriage.
This would be the end of some books, but there was so, so much more to go. I had no idea where this adventure would take me next. Turns out, I was on a train ride with so many twists and turns. There is an incredible amount of story that happens after this. I do not want to give any more away, but Nerissa learns just what she really is and the truth about those she loves. It seems everyone has lied to her. And you won't believe just how she handles this!
Besides the story itself, the characters are believable and interesting. I really liked Nerissa's friends and family. I would have liked to have seen more of Zeer's direct family though. They are mentioned and even explained who they are and their backstories, but I would have like to have seen them have a more interactive role in the story. But that is a small thing. This book blew me away and I highly recommend it to those who like to read about a strong female character in a fantasy/supernatural book.
July 19, 2019
Siren's Call: Cursed Seas
By: Amy McKinley
5 out of 5 stars
The story Siren's Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley is a wonderful fantasy book. It hooked me from the very beginning and didn’t let me go until I had read the final page. I enjoyed reading about Nerissa. She is a young woman who lives in a small seaside village. The gods have protected them. Then things take a turn for the worse. The village hopes that the offering of an unmarried woman will return the god’s favor. Nerissa then meets Zeer, a man who she is very attracted to. Will he be the one to help her escape the terms of the offering? What does the future hold for Nerissa? Read this book to find out. I loved how this story has mythology and many tales are told. The author has done an amazing job of world-building. There are many additional characters that are introduced who have their part to play in the book. Some have their own plans and agenda. Don’t miss out on a fantasy book that you won’t want to put down until you have read the final page. I highly recommend reading it.
By: Amy McKinley
5 out of 5 stars
The story Siren's Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley is a wonderful fantasy book. It hooked me from the very beginning and didn’t let me go until I had read the final page. I enjoyed reading about Nerissa. She is a young woman who lives in a small seaside village. The gods have protected them. Then things take a turn for the worse. The village hopes that the offering of an unmarried woman will return the god’s favor. Nerissa then meets Zeer, a man who she is very attracted to. Will he be the one to help her escape the terms of the offering? What does the future hold for Nerissa? Read this book to find out. I loved how this story has mythology and many tales are told. The author has done an amazing job of world-building. There are many additional characters that are introduced who have their part to play in the book. Some have their own plans and agenda. Don’t miss out on a fantasy book that you won’t want to put down until you have read the final page. I highly recommend reading it.
August 15, 2019
Siren’s Call would not be my typical go to read, but anything that is by the talented Ms. McKinley I have to get my hands on regardless of what it is supposed to be about. I have never been disappointed yet with a novel of hers and this one is no exception to the rule. I loved the way Amy McKinley wrote this twist on Greek Mythology and spun into it a complex tale of love and life as a woman.
I will admit that the first few parts of the book were slow to start, but it was evident that was due to the story being set up to take off into a beautiful tale I couldn’t stop reading. I was glad I remained patient because the way the story unfolded was absolutely perfect and quite frankly it captured my number one favorite spot of Amy McKinley’s novels. I won’t go into much more detail than this or what she has chosen to divulge in the blurb. I couldn’t bare to spoil one moment of the journey. You will just have to take my ultimate high approval and word for it. I can’t wait to see what will come next from the talented Amy McKinley!
I will admit that the first few parts of the book were slow to start, but it was evident that was due to the story being set up to take off into a beautiful tale I couldn’t stop reading. I was glad I remained patient because the way the story unfolded was absolutely perfect and quite frankly it captured my number one favorite spot of Amy McKinley’s novels. I won’t go into much more detail than this or what she has chosen to divulge in the blurb. I couldn’t bare to spoil one moment of the journey. You will just have to take my ultimate high approval and word for it. I can’t wait to see what will come next from the talented Amy McKinley!
August 15, 2019
Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas is a fantastic fantasy novel by Amy McKinley. I was already a huge fan of Amy McKinley having read, and loved, the Gray Ghost series. I’ve only recently started to read the fantasy/paranormal genre and was eager to read something in this genre by an author I already liked.
Siren’s Call was fantastic. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Amy McKinley knows how to create a fantastic story that grips you from the very beginning, takes you on an amazing roller coaster journey, then spits you out at the end totally dazed by what she’s put you through. This book was no exception. She also knows how to write amazing characters. I loved both Nerissa and Zeer, their characters are very intriguing and so interesting to read. I’ve always said that one mark of a good author is by how much you hate the guys. Well, I can safely say that I hated Cete, Ares, Cyn and the Oracle with a passion.
This book has a little bit of everything that I love in a good book: great characters, romance, angst, mystery and a damn good storyline. I’d definitely recommend it to others.
Siren’s Call was fantastic. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Amy McKinley knows how to create a fantastic story that grips you from the very beginning, takes you on an amazing roller coaster journey, then spits you out at the end totally dazed by what she’s put you through. This book was no exception. She also knows how to write amazing characters. I loved both Nerissa and Zeer, their characters are very intriguing and so interesting to read. I’ve always said that one mark of a good author is by how much you hate the guys. Well, I can safely say that I hated Cete, Ares, Cyn and the Oracle with a passion.
This book has a little bit of everything that I love in a good book: great characters, romance, angst, mystery and a damn good storyline. I’d definitely recommend it to others.
August 17, 2019
A Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas flawlessly integrates the world of Greek Mythology with the reality of life in a small town fishing village. As I read, I could picture each scene and felt as if I was living Nerissa’s life right along with her. I could literally feel her emotions: her joy, her sorrows, her worries, her anger, and her love. Most of all, her determination and will to succeed and overcome all obstacles. As for Zeer, I won’t tell you too much about him now other than to say where can I find one just like him???
While this was ultimately Nerissa and Zeer’s story, there are so many fantastically written characters in this book. Some you will love, some you will despise, but you can’t help but be pulled in to their magical world and want to get to know them all! This is a complex story of superstitions, Gods, curses, underwater worlds, and mythical powers with lots of unexpected twists and turns that will keep you captivated until the very end. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from Amy McKinley!
While this was ultimately Nerissa and Zeer’s story, there are so many fantastically written characters in this book. Some you will love, some you will despise, but you can’t help but be pulled in to their magical world and want to get to know them all! This is a complex story of superstitions, Gods, curses, underwater worlds, and mythical powers with lots of unexpected twists and turns that will keep you captivated until the very end. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from Amy McKinley!
August 6, 2019
Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley
5 Stars
This is an automatic go to author for me..I've loved everything I've read by her and will always read anything she comes out with. In saying all of that, this one was a bit different then Im used to and borders outside of what I normally choose to read, which is why this one will not be my favorite by this author.
It was still beautifully written as I've become used to and if I read more fantasy I would probably be doing back flips about this book, but I don't, so not being able to connect to this story or these characters was simply a personal choice and in no way reflects on this author and her talent with writing, which is why I still rate this 5 stars,.
It was a fast moving story and had some suspense and twists which I did enjoy and I can't wait for her next book as no matter what I will have it :)
Definitely recommend for those fantasy readers out there.
5 Stars
This is an automatic go to author for me..I've loved everything I've read by her and will always read anything she comes out with. In saying all of that, this one was a bit different then Im used to and borders outside of what I normally choose to read, which is why this one will not be my favorite by this author.
It was still beautifully written as I've become used to and if I read more fantasy I would probably be doing back flips about this book, but I don't, so not being able to connect to this story or these characters was simply a personal choice and in no way reflects on this author and her talent with writing, which is why I still rate this 5 stars,.
It was a fast moving story and had some suspense and twists which I did enjoy and I can't wait for her next book as no matter what I will have it :)
Definitely recommend for those fantasy readers out there.
August 8, 2019
This story follows a fishermans daughter called Nerissa who grew up with her father after her mother vanished.
In her village every year they sacrifice 1 virgin maiden to the god Poseidon to get his favour in terms of wealth and food from the ocean.
A chance encounter with a handsome man called Zeer leaves Nerissa hopeful that she will be married until Zeer disappears.
Nerissa remains unmarried after her two suitors passed at sea and Zeer has vanished and as the time of the sacrifice draws near her fears are realised when she becomes the virgin maiden they chose.
What unravels is an adventure about revenge, lies and finding out who you really are. Both Nerissa and Zeer are holding secrets but is their love able to overcome them.
Its an amazing story full of ups and downs, lies and truths, and finding out things aren't always as they seem.
In her village every year they sacrifice 1 virgin maiden to the god Poseidon to get his favour in terms of wealth and food from the ocean.
A chance encounter with a handsome man called Zeer leaves Nerissa hopeful that she will be married until Zeer disappears.
Nerissa remains unmarried after her two suitors passed at sea and Zeer has vanished and as the time of the sacrifice draws near her fears are realised when she becomes the virgin maiden they chose.
What unravels is an adventure about revenge, lies and finding out who you really are. Both Nerissa and Zeer are holding secrets but is their love able to overcome them.
Its an amazing story full of ups and downs, lies and truths, and finding out things aren't always as they seem.
August 15, 2019
Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley. This is the story of Nerissa a young girl who lives with her father in a small fishing village. This village has always been protected by the gods but that is about to end. The fishermen have quit catching fish, the trees have quit bearing fruit and the winds are whispering of big change. Nerissa is about to be given away by her father for marriage but she decides she wants some say in the matter so when Zeer a visiting fisherman meets her and sweeps her off her feet she is smitten. Is Zeer the answer to her problems? Nothing is as simple as it seems and Nerissa is about to find out who she really is and that everyone around her has not been truthful. This is a rollercoaster story that has twist and turns you never expect. I loved it and can't wait for the next!
August 25, 2026
I have to admit, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I picked up *Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas*. Greek mythology, ancient gods, curses, sirens, romance, and a mysterious seaside village? Yes, please! I was definitely curious—and before long, I was completely pulled into Nerissa’s world.
Nerissa is a young woman living in a small fishing village where the gods have supposedly protected the people for generations. But when the fish disappear, the crops begin to fail, and whispers of an ancient curse begin to spread, the villagers decide that a sacrifice may be the only way to regain the gods’ favour. Unfortunately for Nerissa, she finds herself right in the middle of it.
Then along comes Zeer.
And, of course, things become even more complicated!
I really enjoyed the way Amy McKinley blended Greek mythology with romance, mystery, magic, and adventure. There was something almost enchanting about the seaside setting, while the darker elements of the story kept me wondering what was really happening and who to trust.
Nerissa was a character I found myself rooting for. She isn't simply waiting for someone else to save her—she wants to make her own choices and fight for her future. I also enjoyed the mystery surrounding Zeer and the secrets that seemed to follow nearly every character. Just when I thought I had figured something out, the story had another little surprise waiting for me.
There were definitely moments when I wanted to shake a character or yell, “What are you doing?!” 😂 But honestly, that is part of what kept me turning the pages. I wanted answers and to see how everything would eventually come together.
*Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas* was a fun and imaginative escape into a world where the sea holds secrets, the gods aren't quite as distant as they seem, and fate has a way of catching up with everyone.
If you enjoy mythology-inspired fantasy, romance, suspense, secrets, and a little bit of magic, I think this one is worth answering the call for.
Some stories whisper your name from the shore… and some drag you straight into the cursed seas. 🌊
Nerissa is a young woman living in a small fishing village where the gods have supposedly protected the people for generations. But when the fish disappear, the crops begin to fail, and whispers of an ancient curse begin to spread, the villagers decide that a sacrifice may be the only way to regain the gods’ favour. Unfortunately for Nerissa, she finds herself right in the middle of it.
Then along comes Zeer.
And, of course, things become even more complicated!
I really enjoyed the way Amy McKinley blended Greek mythology with romance, mystery, magic, and adventure. There was something almost enchanting about the seaside setting, while the darker elements of the story kept me wondering what was really happening and who to trust.
Nerissa was a character I found myself rooting for. She isn't simply waiting for someone else to save her—she wants to make her own choices and fight for her future. I also enjoyed the mystery surrounding Zeer and the secrets that seemed to follow nearly every character. Just when I thought I had figured something out, the story had another little surprise waiting for me.
There were definitely moments when I wanted to shake a character or yell, “What are you doing?!” 😂 But honestly, that is part of what kept me turning the pages. I wanted answers and to see how everything would eventually come together.
*Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas* was a fun and imaginative escape into a world where the sea holds secrets, the gods aren't quite as distant as they seem, and fate has a way of catching up with everyone.
If you enjoy mythology-inspired fantasy, romance, suspense, secrets, and a little bit of magic, I think this one is worth answering the call for.
Some stories whisper your name from the shore… and some drag you straight into the cursed seas. 🌊
September 8, 2026
Nerissa is a young woman living in a fishing village with her father, he is the best fisherman and has a lot of respect with the rest of the people living there and so Nerissa thought she was safe, especially with a marriage on the horizon which her father will arrange as soon as he is back from his latest voyage, until then, she has to stay away from the shoreline and the sea, an extremely hard task.
Unfortunately for Nerissa, her father's illustrious position is about to fail when the nets keep coming back empty and the crops are failing, this leads the elders to demand a sacrifice to the Gods who are meant to be protecting their village, but Nerissa doesn't believe in them, or the Oracle who claims they speak through her, but the sacrifice is a young and unmarried woman, so Nerissa decides to find herself a husband.
One day at the local market she runs into a fisherman who is new to the village, Zeer and immediately feels at ease with him and decides that she will see where things go and hope that her father approves when he returns and as the days pass, she falls deeper and deeper in love with him.
However, fate has its own way of getting what it wants and this time it is using the village Oracle and the guards who accompany her on the morning of the sacrifice to Nerissa's door, as she didn't want to believe, she is to be the sacrifice, but will anyone come to her rescue, or will she suffer the same fate as those before her? This is a mythological fantasy romance where twists and turns lay in the deep oceans and the world above is subject to its whims.
Unfortunately for Nerissa, her father's illustrious position is about to fail when the nets keep coming back empty and the crops are failing, this leads the elders to demand a sacrifice to the Gods who are meant to be protecting their village, but Nerissa doesn't believe in them, or the Oracle who claims they speak through her, but the sacrifice is a young and unmarried woman, so Nerissa decides to find herself a husband.
One day at the local market she runs into a fisherman who is new to the village, Zeer and immediately feels at ease with him and decides that she will see where things go and hope that her father approves when he returns and as the days pass, she falls deeper and deeper in love with him.
However, fate has its own way of getting what it wants and this time it is using the village Oracle and the guards who accompany her on the morning of the sacrifice to Nerissa's door, as she didn't want to believe, she is to be the sacrifice, but will anyone come to her rescue, or will she suffer the same fate as those before her? This is a mythological fantasy romance where twists and turns lay in the deep oceans and the world above is subject to its whims.
September 4, 2026
Okay, apparently all you have to do is give me cursed seas, supernatural danger, mystery, and some seriously good chemistry and I am SOLD. 😂🌊
Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas sucked me in way faster than I expected. The whole dark, mysterious ocean vibe was right up my alley, and I loved never quite knowing what was lurking around the corner—or under the water. 👀
And can we talk about the chemistry?! 🔥 I am always here for a romance that gives me tension AND danger, and this one definitely delivered. I loved watching the characters navigate everything being thrown at them while also dealing with that undeniable pull toward each other. Because obviously surviving supernatural chaos isn't complicated enough. 😂
The story had such a fun mix of romance, mystery, danger, and paranormal goodness. It kept me turning pages because every time I thought, “Okay, NOW I know where this is going…” nope. Apparently I did not. 😅
Amy McKinley created a world that was easy to get lost in, and honestly, I wasn't ready to leave the cursed seas behind when I finished.
If you like paranormal romance, mysterious creatures, dangerous adventures, sizzling chemistry, and stories that make you say “just ONE more chapter” at an unreasonable hour… add this one to your TBR. 🌊🧜♀️🔥
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟I Would absolutely risk the cursed seas again. 🌊
Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas sucked me in way faster than I expected. The whole dark, mysterious ocean vibe was right up my alley, and I loved never quite knowing what was lurking around the corner—or under the water. 👀
And can we talk about the chemistry?! 🔥 I am always here for a romance that gives me tension AND danger, and this one definitely delivered. I loved watching the characters navigate everything being thrown at them while also dealing with that undeniable pull toward each other. Because obviously surviving supernatural chaos isn't complicated enough. 😂
The story had such a fun mix of romance, mystery, danger, and paranormal goodness. It kept me turning pages because every time I thought, “Okay, NOW I know where this is going…” nope. Apparently I did not. 😅
Amy McKinley created a world that was easy to get lost in, and honestly, I wasn't ready to leave the cursed seas behind when I finished.
If you like paranormal romance, mysterious creatures, dangerous adventures, sizzling chemistry, and stories that make you say “just ONE more chapter” at an unreasonable hour… add this one to your TBR. 🌊🧜♀️🔥
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟I Would absolutely risk the cursed seas again. 🌊
September 8, 2026
Nerissa is looking to find a husband that isn't Cete. There is a legend in her village that when the crops don't grow, the trees no longer bear fruit, and the fisherman's nets come up empty that the Gods will need a sacrifice. Nerissa is of marrying age and the only thing that was keeping Cete from making a move, for lack of better words, was that she was in mourning. She had lost two previous fiance's to the sea and she was hoping to hold off for a while on her father finding her another. Would she become the sacrifice? All the girls of marrying age that did not find a match are eligible. Zeer came to land from under the sea to find out what was happening with the humans. He is a ladies man who has no intentions of settling down. As a son of Poseidon he has power and good looks. Nerissa is drawn to him in a way she has never been drawn to another, and dare I say she never felt this way about those she was previously betrothed to. I am not new to this author and I did enjoy this book. Her other works are very different so I was intrigued. Siren's call will pull you in from page one and keep you hooked. As you move along in the story you may think you have things figured out but then a curve ball gets thrown in and you are back at square one. This book is some mythology mixed with modern times for a good twist.
September 5, 2026
First read for me by Amy Mckinley and knew I would love it because it has some of my favorite buzz words: Dark- Romance- Mythology and girl POWER.
Narissa's character showed a good combination of both innocent niativity and the pure grit and determination to not let it "be done until it's right".
The romance was yearning, adventure and danger all wrapped up in one perfect bow. Even for a YA I found myself very on board for their romantic paths and was honestly rooting for Issa and Zeer from their meet cute.
I am so thankful I got the opportunity to read this story, for once not for the romance, but honestly for the poetic and description of the world we got to enjoy. The take on mythology was done in such a way that nothing became confusing or weighed down/muted with the storyline.
My small piece that I think hit my heart the most? The parents love and support. It is SO commonly seen in fantasy about terrible parents with abandonment or just straight up neglect. Just so well done and enjoyable !
Narissa's character showed a good combination of both innocent niativity and the pure grit and determination to not let it "be done until it's right".
The romance was yearning, adventure and danger all wrapped up in one perfect bow. Even for a YA I found myself very on board for their romantic paths and was honestly rooting for Issa and Zeer from their meet cute.
I am so thankful I got the opportunity to read this story, for once not for the romance, but honestly for the poetic and description of the world we got to enjoy. The take on mythology was done in such a way that nothing became confusing or weighed down/muted with the storyline.
My small piece that I think hit my heart the most? The parents love and support. It is SO commonly seen in fantasy about terrible parents with abandonment or just straight up neglect. Just so well done and enjoyable !
August 19, 2026
Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley is amazing. Nerissa lives with her father in a small fishing village. The villagers believe they can appease the Gods from whom the village has lost favor, if they sacrifice an unmarried girl. Nerissa isn’t having it. She needs to get married and fast! Enter Zeer! Instant attraction! As Nerissa navigates romance, she finds out that everyone has been keeping secrets and lying to her. I love this book! It has everything you could want in a book and then some. Mythology, fantasy, romance, and characters that are so endearing you want them to be real. The characters are very well developed. I especially love Nerissa. She’s strong, brave, and has guts. McKinley does a fantastic job of world-building. She puts you in the middle of the village by the sea. McKinley has created a masterfully complex story that twists and turns and has your head spinning in the best of ways. Overall, this is a fantastic romantasy for YA readers.
August 28, 2026
I really enjoyed Siren’s Call. It was a fun mix of romance, Greek mythology, magic, and adventure with plenty of secrets and twists along the way.
I really liked Nerissa as a heroine. She’s strong and determined, but she also has moments of vulnerability that make her feel more realistic. Zeer was definitely more mysterious, and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop as more of his secrets came to light.
The worldbuilding was one of my favorite parts. The Greek mythology, sirens, mermaids, and underwater kingdom created such an interesting setting, and I loved getting to explore it alongside Nerissa.
The beginning was a little slow while everything was being introduced, but once the story got moving, I was hooked. There were plenty of surprises that kept me guessing, and the story ended up being much bigger than I expected. This was an entertaining paranormal romance with a strong heroine, mythology, magic, and plenty of adventure.
I really liked Nerissa as a heroine. She’s strong and determined, but she also has moments of vulnerability that make her feel more realistic. Zeer was definitely more mysterious, and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop as more of his secrets came to light.
The worldbuilding was one of my favorite parts. The Greek mythology, sirens, mermaids, and underwater kingdom created such an interesting setting, and I loved getting to explore it alongside Nerissa.
The beginning was a little slow while everything was being introduced, but once the story got moving, I was hooked. There were plenty of surprises that kept me guessing, and the story ended up being much bigger than I expected. This was an entertaining paranormal romance with a strong heroine, mythology, magic, and plenty of adventure.
September 3, 2026
I love Greek mythology, so I was really excited to dive into this book and honestly, it did not disappoint. This was not your normal run of the mill pheromonal supernatural story and i loved every minute of it. this was an intense read and I loved that this story included beings that we don’t always see in books, like mermaids, sirens, and sea witches. The had a wide mixture of legends and gods, with plenty of action, drama, secret's, love, hope, intense, sacrifice's, plus a few twists thrown in to keep things interesting, and hooked till the end. Nerissa lives on an island and it isn't doing to well, no fruit, no fish and now the town people are wondering how to fix the problem, when someone says to do a sacrifice to the gods. Now will Nerissa be able to save herself and find a husband to not being sacrificed. the intense roller-coaster in this story was intriguing and kept me hoked till the end.
September 5, 2026
A yearly sacrifice, a village that turned their backs, a God that was never there and a legend of vengeance. Nerissa was always called to the sea, even when her father told her to stay away. She never knew it would play a bigger part in her life than it already did. As she is racing the clock to secure a marriage to avoid one with Cete, she meets Zeer. Who is someone not from the village. She could tell he had power but being a God was never one of them. Thinking Zeer is the one who sentenced her to death as the latest sacrifice. She comes to realize that the legend was real. You will see why she was chosen and who was actually pulling all the strings to begin with. You have parents who love their daughter and was just trying to make sure she was safe. You see how Sirens could save a sailor instead of luring them to their deaths. You have jealous Gods who hold on to grudges for years. And a legend that was destined to intertwine several fates.
September 8, 2026
Okay, I’m going to be vulnerable for a second. I’m guilty of having several books by this author on my TBR, but I hadn’t picked one up until now, and I’m mad at myself for waiting so long. This book completely captivated me! I couldn’t put it down and maybe lost quite a bit of sleep over it. The characters are well developed, and the world-building is excellent. I really liked Nerissa because she tries to take control of her situation instead of simply accepting her fate. Zeer was a whole different beast that had me on a rollercoaster of emotions too! The setting has a creepy, isolated seaside atmosphere that made me feel like something terrible was always about to happen. And that ending?! I won’t give anything away, but I was not prepared. If you enjoy fantasy romance with mystery, gods, questionable decisions, and a heroine trying very hard not to die, I think you’ll have fun with this one.
September 3, 2026
Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas is my first book by Amy McKinley and I absolutely loved it. Issa is a young unmarried lady who lives in a small fishing village with her single father. He happens to be the best fisherman in the village and rarely mentions her mother. Issa has had two finances die at sea and her father will be marrying her off once he returns from his next fishing trip. While he is away Issa tries to avoid Cere the man who wants to possess her and meets a mysterious young man named Zeer. Their connection is immediate and consuming. Unfortunately Zeer has to return home before Issa’s father returns and the village sacrifice to Poseidon, the sea god looms closer. What will Issa do? Will she await Zeer’s or her father’s return? Will she be chosen as the virginal sacrifice? Will Cete possess her?
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