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The Sea Knows My Name
In this seafaring fantasy, a soft-spoken and empathic teen must chart her own course to rescue the ruthless pirate who raised her
If there’s one thing Thea Fowler has learned from her mother, it’s that the only way for a woman to survive in a man’s world is to make herself strong—invulnerable, even. Strength, after all, is how Clementine Fowler survived after her world was washed away by ash and lava and became one of the most notorious pirates the world has ever known.
Unfortunately, Thea has inherited none of her mother’s ruthlessness and grit.
After a lifetime of being told she is a disappointment, Thea longs to escape life under her mother’s thumb. And when she falls for a handsome sailor named Bauer, she thinks she’s found her chance at a new life. But it’s not long before first love leads to first betrayal, and Thea learns that there’s more than one way to be strong.
If there’s one thing Thea Fowler has learned from her mother, it’s that the only way for a woman to survive in a man’s world is to make herself strong—invulnerable, even. Strength, after all, is how Clementine Fowler survived after her world was washed away by ash and lava and became one of the most notorious pirates the world has ever known.
Unfortunately, Thea has inherited none of her mother’s ruthlessness and grit.
After a lifetime of being told she is a disappointment, Thea longs to escape life under her mother’s thumb. And when she falls for a handsome sailor named Bauer, she thinks she’s found her chance at a new life. But it’s not long before first love leads to first betrayal, and Thea learns that there’s more than one way to be strong.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published June 14, 2022
10 people are currently reading
1063 people want to read
About the author
Laura Brooke Robson
5 books185 followersLaura Brooke Robson is the author of Love Is an Algorithm and A Curse for the Homesick. She lives in New York.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 49 reviews
October 5, 2021
It's my second book!
I'm not active on Goodreads as a writer. I love using Goodreads as a reader to keep track of what I've read and find new books, but if I'm loitering in the comments of my own book, it's going to be harder on both of us. Me, because reading reviews is a deep rabbit hole. You, because you will be nervous to express your incisive and witty criticism. Or whatever.
The point is, I hope you like Thea's story, and if you have any questions, comments, concerns—bug me on Instagram @laurabrookerobson.
Some quick things that you may or may not be wondering:
Is this related to Girls at the Edge of the World?
No. Different worlds, different characters. But if you liked one, I think you'll like the other.
What's the genre?
Fantasy in the same way GATEOTW is fantasy. No magic powers (though I do love magic powers), but a historical-ish world not quite like ours with big climate catastrophes and invented myths.
Highlights?
Whale songs, woven time strands, earnest bi boys, reimagined Greek myths (particularly Athena, Artemis, and Cassandra), a deconstruction of the "strong female heroine" trope, and an enduring love for the ocean (which is quickly becoming my authorial thing, I guess)
Content warnings?
This is a book about everything I said above--whales and myths and heroines--but it's also a book about sexual assault. I say "about" sexual assault and not "featuring" sexual assault because it really isn't just a feature. The assault isn't in the book to raise the stakes or give the characters some motivation. It's the core of the story I wanted to tell, and though I wrote about a dozen different versions of this book, these questions always sat at the center: What does it mean to be a "strong" woman? Are you strong if you shun relationships? Are you powerful if you're well-liked by men? What happens when we begin to define ourselves through our relationships with someone else, be they parent, friend, or partner? What happens when those people betray you?
Most of all, I wanted to tell a story about sexual assault that felt true to me. I hope it feels true to you, too.
I say all this as both warning and reassurance. At the risk of divulging too much, I also think it's worth noting here that Thea and I have had similar experiences. I don't love shouting personal information into the ether, but I also know that as a reader, I find comfort in knowing that I'm being guided through a story by someone familiar with all the path's thorns and brambles. I tried to write the book that would make me feel heard, known, and cared for.
I think the book went live on Edelweiss yesterday, so that's my cue to leave this page to the readers. I hope you like it.
I'm not active on Goodreads as a writer. I love using Goodreads as a reader to keep track of what I've read and find new books, but if I'm loitering in the comments of my own book, it's going to be harder on both of us. Me, because reading reviews is a deep rabbit hole. You, because you will be nervous to express your incisive and witty criticism. Or whatever.
The point is, I hope you like Thea's story, and if you have any questions, comments, concerns—bug me on Instagram @laurabrookerobson.
Some quick things that you may or may not be wondering:
Is this related to Girls at the Edge of the World?
No. Different worlds, different characters. But if you liked one, I think you'll like the other.
What's the genre?
Fantasy in the same way GATEOTW is fantasy. No magic powers (though I do love magic powers), but a historical-ish world not quite like ours with big climate catastrophes and invented myths.
Highlights?
Whale songs, woven time strands, earnest bi boys, reimagined Greek myths (particularly Athena, Artemis, and Cassandra), a deconstruction of the "strong female heroine" trope, and an enduring love for the ocean (which is quickly becoming my authorial thing, I guess)
Content warnings?
This is a book about everything I said above--whales and myths and heroines--but it's also a book about sexual assault. I say "about" sexual assault and not "featuring" sexual assault because it really isn't just a feature. The assault isn't in the book to raise the stakes or give the characters some motivation. It's the core of the story I wanted to tell, and though I wrote about a dozen different versions of this book, these questions always sat at the center: What does it mean to be a "strong" woman? Are you strong if you shun relationships? Are you powerful if you're well-liked by men? What happens when we begin to define ourselves through our relationships with someone else, be they parent, friend, or partner? What happens when those people betray you?
Most of all, I wanted to tell a story about sexual assault that felt true to me. I hope it feels true to you, too.
I say all this as both warning and reassurance. At the risk of divulging too much, I also think it's worth noting here that Thea and I have had similar experiences. I don't love shouting personal information into the ether, but I also know that as a reader, I find comfort in knowing that I'm being guided through a story by someone familiar with all the path's thorns and brambles. I tried to write the book that would make me feel heard, known, and cared for.
I think the book went live on Edelweiss yesterday, so that's my cue to leave this page to the readers. I hope you like it.
July 11, 2022
"The world wants to hurt you. The world doesn’t care about your voice. Doesn’t that make you angry?"
Knowing me and how I am, I’m surprised that more pirate books aren’t a constant in my life. Especially ones with bada** women who take charge and don’t let any man tell them what to do. I love a book with a strong and powerful main character.
This was really good. Thea was a powerful leader and one who made mistakes but she never let that hold her back. Never met a pirate with their heart on their sleeve before and I’m glad that I finally got to experience that. Really unique in its own sailing the high seas kind of way.
I wasn't expecting the heaviness with this book. The then parts broke my heart and I didn't realize that a book about pirates would hit me so hard. Those Then chapters still get to me and we fully understand why Thea is the way she is. I'm not sure if I could ever be as strong as her. Thea powered through and became one of the most powerful female leads that I have ever witnessed. It was heartbreaking and beautiful. Her mission was a solid one and you couldn't help but cheer her on as she went on with her life.
The Sea Knows My Name was a really good read. It was a powerful feminist pirate read that you'll zoom through because it holds your attention really well. You'll instantly connect with Thea as she travels through with a tough exterior but deep down inside she has a really big heart. We could all learn a thing or two from her. I know I certainly have. I'm really excited to read other books by this author after reading this one.
Knowing me and how I am, I’m surprised that more pirate books aren’t a constant in my life. Especially ones with bada** women who take charge and don’t let any man tell them what to do. I love a book with a strong and powerful main character.
This was really good. Thea was a powerful leader and one who made mistakes but she never let that hold her back. Never met a pirate with their heart on their sleeve before and I’m glad that I finally got to experience that. Really unique in its own sailing the high seas kind of way.
I wasn't expecting the heaviness with this book. The then parts broke my heart and I didn't realize that a book about pirates would hit me so hard. Those Then chapters still get to me and we fully understand why Thea is the way she is. I'm not sure if I could ever be as strong as her. Thea powered through and became one of the most powerful female leads that I have ever witnessed. It was heartbreaking and beautiful. Her mission was a solid one and you couldn't help but cheer her on as she went on with her life.
The Sea Knows My Name was a really good read. It was a powerful feminist pirate read that you'll zoom through because it holds your attention really well. You'll instantly connect with Thea as she travels through with a tough exterior but deep down inside she has a really big heart. We could all learn a thing or two from her. I know I certainly have. I'm really excited to read other books by this author after reading this one.
June 20, 2022
“I’d always been greedy for possibility, but my want was more exact than that. I wanted to be someone for whom anything was possible. I wanted to be someone who didn’t accept the word ‘no’ and invented herself as she pleased.” (16)
Clementine Fowler is a survivor.
To persist in spite of anyone and everyone is what Clementine knows how to do best. Men taught her to do this well—really, it’s one of the only good things men taught her.
In a man’s world, survival is a woman’s best weapon. Best revenge.
That’s not to say, though, that Clementine didn’t try to live a good life, a noble life. An honest one. Clementine studied, fought to go to school and excelled, married a man she loved. Phin. He loved Clementine. He supported her. He listened to her. Believed her.
It could’ve been enough.
But, it wasn’t.
Clementine was a scientist. Like her father, even if her father refused to acknowledge it. She studied the land and conducted research. She knew a disaster was nigh. An eruption of Mt. Telamon, Astoria’s most volatile volcano.
Clementine wanted to publish her research. Share her findings. Be believed.
But, no.
No one ever believes a woman until it’s too late.
When Phin dies in a sudden earthquake, that’s the last straw. Clementine will not save people who don’t deserve it.
When she leaves, all Clementine takes with her is Thea. Her daughter, named for the goddess of cleverness of logic. Clementine hoped to imbue Thea with these strengths. They would need them, to survive in this world.
But, Thea is not her mother.
Her mother is strong, yes. Smart and clever, courageous and calculating. She knew Mt. Telamon would erupt and it did, nearly wiping out all of Astoria. Her mother got them a boat and set sail days before the catastrophe.
In three years time, Clementine became a pirate queen. The sea became hers and her the sea’s.
But, Thea knows survival can be cruel and callous—like her mother. It can relentless and unforgiving—like the sea.
Thea is not sure who she wants to be. Who she can be, in a world like this.
When the opportunity to start again arises, Thea can’t think of a reason not to. She knows the world can be harsh but she doesn’t want to have to be harsher for it. Her mother saved her—but survival is not always kind. Thea, the goddess of cleverness, saved herself through great personal sacrifice.
Survival is sometimes the meanest thing you can do.
It can come at great cost.
Will Thea be able to define strength for herself in these tough waters she must tread? When her deepest regrets resurface, will she be able to be brave in her own way?
What does it mean to be brave in a world so indifferent to your struggles?
This book tore me to pieces—in a good way. I feel split open down the middle, all my insides torn out and placed under the glaring light of day. Like a whale, washed ashore.
I feel gutted.
This is such a powerful and profound exploration of not only survivorship and strength but also womanhood and persistence in spite—of everything. This book demonstrates the particular, accumulating and steady hurts of being a woman in the world so deftly and articulately that I had to set the book down several times and just breathe.
Thea is such a raw and real, relevant character who’s struggles are so familiar and terrible. This is fantasy story, yes. But, the indignities and abuse and the self-imposed silence pain inflicts—all of it is all too real. Clementine is a pirate, yes. But, she’s also the embodiment of all women’s rage and hurt and pain made vengeful and efficient, murderous and free.
And, Thea is her daughter.
Hurt by the same world. Hurt my Clementine, too, who couldn’t see her own daughter beyond her pain, her desire for revenge. But, Thea doesn’t blame her. Isn’t even sure she fully understands.
Love is supposed to be enough. But, what happens when it’s not? When you must love yourself in spite?
Thea knows survival can be mean. Has seen it. Has felt it. But, she hopes it can be more too. She wants to be more than a reaction—to her mother, to her circumstances, to pain.
This book is such a good ache. I could go on and on about how much I appreciate the nuance and dexterity with which this author crafts this story. I could. But, I’d rather recommend you read it for yourself.
This is one of my favorite books I’ve read this year. Highly recommend~
Clementine Fowler is a survivor.
To persist in spite of anyone and everyone is what Clementine knows how to do best. Men taught her to do this well—really, it’s one of the only good things men taught her.
In a man’s world, survival is a woman’s best weapon. Best revenge.
That’s not to say, though, that Clementine didn’t try to live a good life, a noble life. An honest one. Clementine studied, fought to go to school and excelled, married a man she loved. Phin. He loved Clementine. He supported her. He listened to her. Believed her.
It could’ve been enough.
But, it wasn’t.
Clementine was a scientist. Like her father, even if her father refused to acknowledge it. She studied the land and conducted research. She knew a disaster was nigh. An eruption of Mt. Telamon, Astoria’s most volatile volcano.
Clementine wanted to publish her research. Share her findings. Be believed.
But, no.
No one ever believes a woman until it’s too late.
When Phin dies in a sudden earthquake, that’s the last straw. Clementine will not save people who don’t deserve it.
When she leaves, all Clementine takes with her is Thea. Her daughter, named for the goddess of cleverness of logic. Clementine hoped to imbue Thea with these strengths. They would need them, to survive in this world.
But, Thea is not her mother.
Her mother is strong, yes. Smart and clever, courageous and calculating. She knew Mt. Telamon would erupt and it did, nearly wiping out all of Astoria. Her mother got them a boat and set sail days before the catastrophe.
In three years time, Clementine became a pirate queen. The sea became hers and her the sea’s.
But, Thea knows survival can be cruel and callous—like her mother. It can relentless and unforgiving—like the sea.
Thea is not sure who she wants to be. Who she can be, in a world like this.
When the opportunity to start again arises, Thea can’t think of a reason not to. She knows the world can be harsh but she doesn’t want to have to be harsher for it. Her mother saved her—but survival is not always kind. Thea, the goddess of cleverness, saved herself through great personal sacrifice.
Survival is sometimes the meanest thing you can do.
It can come at great cost.
Will Thea be able to define strength for herself in these tough waters she must tread? When her deepest regrets resurface, will she be able to be brave in her own way?
What does it mean to be brave in a world so indifferent to your struggles?
This book tore me to pieces—in a good way. I feel split open down the middle, all my insides torn out and placed under the glaring light of day. Like a whale, washed ashore.
I feel gutted.
This is such a powerful and profound exploration of not only survivorship and strength but also womanhood and persistence in spite—of everything. This book demonstrates the particular, accumulating and steady hurts of being a woman in the world so deftly and articulately that I had to set the book down several times and just breathe.
Thea is such a raw and real, relevant character who’s struggles are so familiar and terrible. This is fantasy story, yes. But, the indignities and abuse and the self-imposed silence pain inflicts—all of it is all too real. Clementine is a pirate, yes. But, she’s also the embodiment of all women’s rage and hurt and pain made vengeful and efficient, murderous and free.
And, Thea is her daughter.
Hurt by the same world. Hurt my Clementine, too, who couldn’t see her own daughter beyond her pain, her desire for revenge. But, Thea doesn’t blame her. Isn’t even sure she fully understands.
Love is supposed to be enough. But, what happens when it’s not? When you must love yourself in spite?
Thea knows survival can be mean. Has seen it. Has felt it. But, she hopes it can be more too. She wants to be more than a reaction—to her mother, to her circumstances, to pain.
This book is such a good ache. I could go on and on about how much I appreciate the nuance and dexterity with which this author crafts this story. I could. But, I’d rather recommend you read it for yourself.
This is one of my favorite books I’ve read this year. Highly recommend~
December 15, 2022
Again, a book I wouldn’t normally pick up to read. It is YA, I was in the library and curious. Well written story with a mythological twist. That’s always fun!
February 11, 2024
This book is, in a word, phenomenal. Full of powerful, lyrical prose and realism so unshakable that it electrifies every sentence, this is one of the most stunning books I have ever read!
I utterly fell in love with this book. Robson creates a world and a set of characters so vividly real it almost feels wrong to call this book fantasy. After all, this story is nothing like classic fantasy novels or even a typical pirate tale, full of swashbuckling triumphs, twinkling fairies, and the unmovable hand of destiny. Instead, it is nuanced, as quiet and emotional as its protagonist, and as thoughtful and powerful as Robson’s debut. Unconventional in the best possible way, this is a tale about family and stories, about the devastating expectations of a patriarchal world and the different kinds of strength it takes to live in it. Instead of falling into traditional patterns of storytelling and expectations concerning how women are treated and portrayed, The Sea Knows My Name actively stands up against them.
Thea defies and stands up to the expectations of her society without openly defying them, reminding the reader undeniably that there is more than one way to be a woman, and that being quiet or having feelings does not mean you accept or embody the expectations of a patriarchal society. Conversely, Clementine is in so many ways the classic YA fantasy heroine from the early 2010s—ruthless, determined, and feminist because she wants to set herself apart (the infamous ‘not like other girls’ trope). Thea openly defies this, contradicting the idea that one must be masculine and unemotional to be feminist, but in her own way, Clementine does not fall into the stereotype, either. They are, neither of them, wrong or stereotypical; instead, they are both strong in different ways, and Robson’s subtle yet determined way of weaving this thread and the contrast between them is utterly extraordinary.
With every plot twist and image, every line of dialogue, Robson builds a world and a story so spectacular that feeling ambivalent about this book is utterly out of the question. With vibrancy, realism, and a sometimes painful determination to tell the truth, she weaves something fulfilling out of Thea’s pain and conflict and all the patriarchy and control in the world, something that leaves the reader both empowered and deeply touched by the singular power Robson wields with this deceptively simple, lyrical novel. Raising questions about silence, freedom, love, power, strength, expectation, feminism, judgement, survival, and so much more, perhaps the starkest beauty of all in The Sea Knows My Name is its ability to weave so much together into a narrative that does not content itself with being simply ‘convincing,’ but is utterly real. We need more books with characters like Thea, and more writers as thoughtful and powerful as Robson.
Devastating, beautiful, and full of deft realism, I highly recommend this book!
I utterly fell in love with this book. Robson creates a world and a set of characters so vividly real it almost feels wrong to call this book fantasy. After all, this story is nothing like classic fantasy novels or even a typical pirate tale, full of swashbuckling triumphs, twinkling fairies, and the unmovable hand of destiny. Instead, it is nuanced, as quiet and emotional as its protagonist, and as thoughtful and powerful as Robson’s debut. Unconventional in the best possible way, this is a tale about family and stories, about the devastating expectations of a patriarchal world and the different kinds of strength it takes to live in it. Instead of falling into traditional patterns of storytelling and expectations concerning how women are treated and portrayed, The Sea Knows My Name actively stands up against them.
Thea defies and stands up to the expectations of her society without openly defying them, reminding the reader undeniably that there is more than one way to be a woman, and that being quiet or having feelings does not mean you accept or embody the expectations of a patriarchal society. Conversely, Clementine is in so many ways the classic YA fantasy heroine from the early 2010s—ruthless, determined, and feminist because she wants to set herself apart (the infamous ‘not like other girls’ trope). Thea openly defies this, contradicting the idea that one must be masculine and unemotional to be feminist, but in her own way, Clementine does not fall into the stereotype, either. They are, neither of them, wrong or stereotypical; instead, they are both strong in different ways, and Robson’s subtle yet determined way of weaving this thread and the contrast between them is utterly extraordinary.
With every plot twist and image, every line of dialogue, Robson builds a world and a story so spectacular that feeling ambivalent about this book is utterly out of the question. With vibrancy, realism, and a sometimes painful determination to tell the truth, she weaves something fulfilling out of Thea’s pain and conflict and all the patriarchy and control in the world, something that leaves the reader both empowered and deeply touched by the singular power Robson wields with this deceptively simple, lyrical novel. Raising questions about silence, freedom, love, power, strength, expectation, feminism, judgement, survival, and so much more, perhaps the starkest beauty of all in The Sea Knows My Name is its ability to weave so much together into a narrative that does not content itself with being simply ‘convincing,’ but is utterly real. We need more books with characters like Thea, and more writers as thoughtful and powerful as Robson.
Devastating, beautiful, and full of deft realism, I highly recommend this book!
June 22, 2022
This book is beautifully written and extremely frustrating in the most relatable way; but I also really appreciate that it wasn't so angsty that I had to put it down. It's all about the aggravation and emotional toll of existing as a woman. Luckily things are better now, but there are still a lot of themes in this book that are applicable to our world as we know it. The subplot involving Leo Bauer was done with great care and Thea's inner turmoil, which must have been difficult to write, was complex but coherent. I like that she ended up embracing her own brand of strength and that her agency was greatly influenced by Clementine and her own trauma. Wes was a good foil to Thea, and it was refreshing to see that they are both, in their hearts, gentle people - but Thea opposes her nature while Wes embraces it. Also presents an interesting question of is the ability to retain your kindness a privilege? Thea was kind and gentle, as she is expected to be, and the world screws her, as is expected. Wes is kind and gentle and he gets the short end of the stick, but I think it's fair to say that he's not nearly as traumatized as Thea. I don't know, but something to contemplate. Overall, a very good book.
July 29, 2022
“When men get angry at each other, they fight. But when women get angry at men, we can fight back, can we? We have corsets and pretty shoes and malnourished figures to worry about, all these tricks to keep us from fighting physically, and when we fight verbally, even the most eloquent rebuke can be dismissed with that singularly wretched word “irrational”. So women must turn their anger on each other because there's no one else to hold accountable. No one else who might LISTEN No one else who might hear a woman's roar and think it powerful. And when a woman—out of charity, exhaustion, or some hard won insight— realizes the futility of tearing down the women around her, she has only one place to funnel the seething smoking acrid pool of rage that has been building since she was a child: back on herself”
I love this book so much! Amazing mix of pirate fantasy, coming of age, and feminism. We Stan Thea 😂
Honestly this is a must read for really anyone. I can see this being a “classic” one day that is required to be read in schools just because of how much lesson there is behind this.
I love this book so much! Amazing mix of pirate fantasy, coming of age, and feminism. We Stan Thea 😂
Honestly this is a must read for really anyone. I can see this being a “classic” one day that is required to be read in schools just because of how much lesson there is behind this.
September 6, 2022
have you ever had a book be so rich and make you feel so full that there's no room left for your words? you lose all of your vocabulary and are left with images, feelings, and you're own personal experiences that the book touched.
that's this book for me.
i read the sea knows my name over a month ago and still can't get it out of my head. its a fantasy story about pirates, and it's also an exploration of female strength and power and how those dynamics should affect relationships. it's haunting and beautiful.
heads up that there are content warnings. i really recommend reading the author's honest and vulnerable comment on goodreads before starting the book.
but please start the book, and then we can lose our words together and just silently stare at each other because we're too overwhelmed with feelings to speak with anything but our eyes.
that's this book for me.
i read the sea knows my name over a month ago and still can't get it out of my head. its a fantasy story about pirates, and it's also an exploration of female strength and power and how those dynamics should affect relationships. it's haunting and beautiful.
heads up that there are content warnings. i really recommend reading the author's honest and vulnerable comment on goodreads before starting the book.
but please start the book, and then we can lose our words together and just silently stare at each other because we're too overwhelmed with feelings to speak with anything but our eyes.
2022-ya
January 3, 2022I will never say no to more pirate-y, seafaring fantasies a la Fable and Daughter of the Pirate King!
It's a continuation of the world from this author's debut -- set in the same world but not a sequel.
It's a continuation of the world from this author's debut -- set in the same world but not a sequel.
September 5, 2022
I was very on the fence for most of this book, but something coalesced for me in the last quarter that made me completely captivated and moved.
The story starts with Thea, named for a goddess, as she struggles with life on her mother, Clementine’s, pirate ship, and as she longs to escape. Thea doesn’t want to be her mother and thinks she has found freedom but instead finds more trouble. As she tries to find out who she really is, Thea also struggles with her contentious relationship, and view of the relationship, with her mother.
Clementine is, unquestionably, a bad mother. She ignores what Thea wants, steamrolls her and tries desperately to mold her into a copy of Clementine. From the moment Clementine unceremoniously forced Thea from their home, to their final confrontation in Providence, it was clear that the only way Thea could become herself was to truly break from her mother.
It was the moments with Clementine on Providence that really brought this story around for me, and the reveals about what Thea actually left through that flashback chapters.
Thea’s growth is a thing of true beauty. After being told what she had to be and what she could be, to she her finally take autonomy back is powerful. She also, through reconnecting with childhood friend Wes, finds someone that supports her fully. Her finally achievements in the last chapters, show that Thea has become her own person and taken her father, and mother’s, hopes for her and made them come to fruition.
The story starts with Thea, named for a goddess, as she struggles with life on her mother, Clementine’s, pirate ship, and as she longs to escape. Thea doesn’t want to be her mother and thinks she has found freedom but instead finds more trouble. As she tries to find out who she really is, Thea also struggles with her contentious relationship, and view of the relationship, with her mother.
Clementine is, unquestionably, a bad mother. She ignores what Thea wants, steamrolls her and tries desperately to mold her into a copy of Clementine. From the moment Clementine unceremoniously forced Thea from their home, to their final confrontation in Providence, it was clear that the only way Thea could become herself was to truly break from her mother.
It was the moments with Clementine on Providence that really brought this story around for me, and the reveals about what Thea actually left through that flashback chapters.
Thea’s growth is a thing of true beauty. After being told what she had to be and what she could be, to she her finally take autonomy back is powerful. She also, through reconnecting with childhood friend Wes, finds someone that supports her fully. Her finally achievements in the last chapters, show that Thea has become her own person and taken her father, and mother’s, hopes for her and made them come to fruition.
June 13, 2022
I received a copy of this book directly from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The Sea Knows My Name by Laura Brooke Robson was a gem that I wasn't expecting. The narrative was filled with vivid, precise descriptions that brought the world-building to life. The characters were thoughtful and complex. I loved Thea as a main character - she was a complex mix of pirate's daughter, book-loving scientist, and an altruistic dreamer. She spent a good portion of the book fighting against the different parts of who she was and trying to figure out exactly who she was.
At the core of this book, the story revolved around Thea's conflicted inner view of herself - who she wants to be, who she is, and who others expect her to be. I thought the author did a fantastic job of getting down to the core of Thea's coming of age battle with herself, her mother, her friend, and the fearsome world around her. It is truly a story about the hardships of being a woman, and trying to survive a world that believes you aren't qualified to decide who you are without their help. The story was stunning, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a powerful coming of age story.
The Sea Knows My Name by Laura Brooke Robson was a gem that I wasn't expecting. The narrative was filled with vivid, precise descriptions that brought the world-building to life. The characters were thoughtful and complex. I loved Thea as a main character - she was a complex mix of pirate's daughter, book-loving scientist, and an altruistic dreamer. She spent a good portion of the book fighting against the different parts of who she was and trying to figure out exactly who she was.
At the core of this book, the story revolved around Thea's conflicted inner view of herself - who she wants to be, who she is, and who others expect her to be. I thought the author did a fantastic job of getting down to the core of Thea's coming of age battle with herself, her mother, her friend, and the fearsome world around her. It is truly a story about the hardships of being a woman, and trying to survive a world that believes you aren't qualified to decide who you are without their help. The story was stunning, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a powerful coming of age story.
March 8, 2023
Thea wanted to be a scientist, but when her father dies, her mother Clementine takes her to the sea and a life of piracy.
I would read Robson’s shopping list at this point, I love her writing so much. There’s an ache and a bittersweetness I feel in my bones. Her worlds are gray and bright, whether it’s all floods and aerial dancers (Girls at the Edge) or whales and bees (this book). Her characters are so alive, their relationships so complicated and uncomfortable and sweet. I think what I love most about her characters is that they’re so shaped by what happens to them. Thea is who she is because of her father and the loss of him, her love of the ocean, her relationship with her mother, her fondness for science, her SA survival, the myths she grew up with, the violence she has witnessed, the school she went to, etc. etc. and it all blends together and coalesces into this person who is so real and so herself that I’m not convinced Robson didn’t travel interdimensionally to meet her.
TSKMN is about mothers and daughters, it’s about whales, it’s about sexual assault, it’s about wanting so badly to be tender while fear makes you hard, it’s about mythology, and it’s about girlhood. It’s technically fantasy, because it’s second-world, but there’s no magic. In short, I cannot recommend this (or Girls) enough.
I would read Robson’s shopping list at this point, I love her writing so much. There’s an ache and a bittersweetness I feel in my bones. Her worlds are gray and bright, whether it’s all floods and aerial dancers (Girls at the Edge) or whales and bees (this book). Her characters are so alive, their relationships so complicated and uncomfortable and sweet. I think what I love most about her characters is that they’re so shaped by what happens to them. Thea is who she is because of her father and the loss of him, her love of the ocean, her relationship with her mother, her fondness for science, her SA survival, the myths she grew up with, the violence she has witnessed, the school she went to, etc. etc. and it all blends together and coalesces into this person who is so real and so herself that I’m not convinced Robson didn’t travel interdimensionally to meet her.
TSKMN is about mothers and daughters, it’s about whales, it’s about sexual assault, it’s about wanting so badly to be tender while fear makes you hard, it’s about mythology, and it’s about girlhood. It’s technically fantasy, because it’s second-world, but there’s no magic. In short, I cannot recommend this (or Girls) enough.
June 17, 2022
A gorgeous meditation on becoming oneself, at any cost.
Or, "Read Fable by Adrienne Young to heal your daddy issues, read this one to heal mommy issues."
The writing is strong, the world building doesn't feel forced (just enough detail as to how it operates/the mythology for it to feel shown instead of told to us), the characters toe the line towards stock characters but it WORKS exceptionally well for the narrative that Robson is giving us. Coming of age isn't always about love, or parents, or freedom (though all of those play--either in their presence or absence--important roles) but also about learning to define things for ourselves, like courage, strength, and loyalty, and it's not something that's very often explored with this kind of nuance.
Not much really happens here, and that's okay. This is a fast, beautiful, sharp, angry, and strong read. Thea's perseverance will stick with me for a long time.
Or, "Read Fable by Adrienne Young to heal your daddy issues, read this one to heal mommy issues."
The writing is strong, the world building doesn't feel forced (just enough detail as to how it operates/the mythology for it to feel shown instead of told to us), the characters toe the line towards stock characters but it WORKS exceptionally well for the narrative that Robson is giving us. Coming of age isn't always about love, or parents, or freedom (though all of those play--either in their presence or absence--important roles) but also about learning to define things for ourselves, like courage, strength, and loyalty, and it's not something that's very often explored with this kind of nuance.
Not much really happens here, and that's okay. This is a fast, beautiful, sharp, angry, and strong read. Thea's perseverance will stick with me for a long time.
July 15, 2022
I really liked this book! The main character was likeable, making it easy to root for her. Her journey, although in a more fantasy world, was one I think a lot of people could relate to. The portrayal of her relationships, both good and not so good, had me strung along from the very beginning. The pacing was absolutely fantastic. The author switches from the present day to the past, helping to avoid info dumps. The chapters about the mythology in between were great and followed the plot of the present day perfectly. The pacing sped up at the end in a way that made it exhilarating. I would definitely recommend this book!
October 5, 2022
I am so glad I came across this book at my library. I did not know what to expect going into this one, but wow what a book.
This is such a powerful and raw story I’m blown away. You can easily find yourself relating to Thea as we followed her along on her journey. I really loved the connecting of the Then and Now with the mythology stories. The stories helped tie the plot together really well.
Thea’s self discovery journey was a pleasure to follow. I love the variation of relationships we see. The good and the bad. Nothing was held back. She needed time to realize she was so strong and although Clementine didn’t show it in the best way some times, she did mean well by Thea.
This is such a powerful and raw story I’m blown away. You can easily find yourself relating to Thea as we followed her along on her journey. I really loved the connecting of the Then and Now with the mythology stories. The stories helped tie the plot together really well.
Thea’s self discovery journey was a pleasure to follow. I love the variation of relationships we see. The good and the bad. Nothing was held back. She needed time to realize she was so strong and although Clementine didn’t show it in the best way some times, she did mean well by Thea.
July 4, 2022
This book was everything I have ever wanted, I am speechless!!!
Laura's writing reminds me of Allison Saft and Laini Taylor. Beautifully lyrical without feeling heavy.
Thea was a truly incredible main character - strong and resilient, but also emotional and soft. Her relationship with her ruthless pirate mother is layered and complex but her own characterization never got lost in that bond.
Major trigger warning for sexual assault, but I personally thought it was handled incredibly well and it felt like I was healing through reading.
In conclusion plz read this book, I'm incoherent
Laura's writing reminds me of Allison Saft and Laini Taylor. Beautifully lyrical without feeling heavy.
Thea was a truly incredible main character - strong and resilient, but also emotional and soft. Her relationship with her ruthless pirate mother is layered and complex but her own characterization never got lost in that bond.
Major trigger warning for sexual assault, but I personally thought it was handled incredibly well and it felt like I was healing through reading.
In conclusion plz read this book, I'm incoherent
November 8, 2022
Okay I don't even know where to start, but I love this book a lot.
I love that the main character, Thea, has a soft heart but not a damsel in distress. She made bad choices and learn in a hard way to overcome troubles that follows. Clementine was stern and a little annoying, but in her heart she loves her daughter and only wanted the best for her -- in this case so people will not look down upon her because she is a woman. Wes is an absolute dear, I love his and Thea's relationship. The writing style was great and the world building flawless. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could.
I love that the main character, Thea, has a soft heart but not a damsel in distress. She made bad choices and learn in a hard way to overcome troubles that follows. Clementine was stern and a little annoying, but in her heart she loves her daughter and only wanted the best for her -- in this case so people will not look down upon her because she is a woman. Wes is an absolute dear, I love his and Thea's relationship. The writing style was great and the world building flawless. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could.
August 23, 2023
I read this book really quickly, but I'm pretty sure that if I hadn't been on vacation, this would've taken me a lot longer to get through. Somehow, pirates made me think this would be an action-packed book. It's not. Not that that's a bad thing, it just took a while for me to adjust my expectations.
I did end up enjoying the book, though. This is a book about a girl trying to find her place in the world, trying to survive. Relearning how to trust people. And it was actually really hard to put this book down.
I did end up enjoying the book, though. This is a book about a girl trying to find her place in the world, trying to survive. Relearning how to trust people. And it was actually really hard to put this book down.
July 20, 2022
I was really drawn to Thea and Wes, both amazing characters till the very end. At first I didn't know at all what to expect from this book and didn't realize pirates would be involved! It was an exciting surprise and loved that aspect of it! Thea will be forever engrained in my heart and mind because of her strength and realness. Watching her story unfold was heartbreaking, yet I felt I was part of her world and she became my friend I was rooting for. So glad I came across her story.
November 23, 2022
this was a solid read but ultimately forgettable. i’m a sucker for pirate stories but this one had more of the focus on a girl on land moving from one uninteresting setting to the next. there were pieces of it that were beautiful—the passage about being kind in an unkind world hit hard—but i wasn’t attached to any of the characters. entertaining but i don’t think i would have finished it if it wasn’t so short.
January 26, 2023
I really really loved this book! When I say I want to read feminist centric fiction, this is exactly what I want. The prose was lyrical, and profound…save for a few awkward and slightly clumsy phrases which is all that prevented me from giving it perfect 5 stars. But the themes, the quite inner strength, the parallels and symbolism. It was majestic, and brought a few tears to the surface.
February 18, 2025
The Sea Knows My Name is a beautifully written and emotionally rich story of resilience, identity, and the pull of the sea. Laura Brooke Robson delivers compelling characters, stunning prose, and a gripping narrative that kept me hooked from start to finish. A powerful and haunting read that lingers long after the last page.
July 4, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. Great coming of age story, but it might be too much for my 12 year old 7th graders due to the rape and instances of the f word, although there are only a handful of those. My 8th graders would have loved it.
September 17, 2022
Kind of a pirate story. Lots of made up mythology weaved through. Allusions and vague descriptions of rape and abuse.
And yet, I just didn't connect with this story. It felt disjointed and confusing at times.
Would not recommend
And yet, I just didn't connect with this story. It felt disjointed and confusing at times.
Would not recommend
October 24, 2022
Rating 4.5
What a beautiful book. Thea is so well written- strong persona that also makes mistakes like everyone else. For some reason I felt a connection. I loved the reimagination of Greek myths and how it influenced the story. I guess pirate books are kind growing on me.
What a beautiful book. Thea is so well written- strong persona that also makes mistakes like everyone else. For some reason I felt a connection. I loved the reimagination of Greek myths and how it influenced the story. I guess pirate books are kind growing on me.
December 30, 2022
The mother-daughter dynamic in this novel is inspiring. I really enjoyed the flashbacks to the past following Thea’s life and the supplemental stories that fuel the readers understanding of how Thea and Clementine think. Highly recommend.
February 13, 2024
I liked the idea of this book, but the writing was all over the place! It read like a first draft. A needed a ton of editing! Way too many themes and ideas introduced then not fleshed out or followed up. It was a slog to the end.
September 21, 2025
This was difficult to rate, as it didnt impact me in any way. I wasnt on the edge of my seat or given strong feelings about anything. It was just a book that I read about a daughter living in her mother's shadow.
March 19, 2022
Huh. This was a very interesting book for sure, but I don't know if it's one I'd actively recommend. I definitely preferred Girls at the Edge of the World.
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