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Across the Shattered Sea
Cross the sea.
Unveil the truth.
End the reign of terror.
War washed in from the seas and landed on the shores of the Isle of Eresirah.
A dark and unforgiving force tore through the land. Zale and her younger sister Adilor found themselves fighting to survive in a war-torn land while still grieving the loss of their mother. The magic that pulsated in Zale's veins was the only thing that kept them alive.
Seven years later, the same harrowing darkness has returned.
As Zale's nightmares are brought back to life, she is torn between keeping the ones she loves safe and finding a way to end the chaos that has ensued across her homeland. When the man responsible for an isle full of graves extends a helping hand, the tides begin to turn. In a desperate attempt to stop the bloodshed, Zale finds herself crossing the sea next to her sworn enemy.
Will Zale find an end to the reign of terror, or will her choices lead her to a discovery of something far more haunting?
Unveil the truth.
End the reign of terror.
War washed in from the seas and landed on the shores of the Isle of Eresirah.
A dark and unforgiving force tore through the land. Zale and her younger sister Adilor found themselves fighting to survive in a war-torn land while still grieving the loss of their mother. The magic that pulsated in Zale's veins was the only thing that kept them alive.
Seven years later, the same harrowing darkness has returned.
As Zale's nightmares are brought back to life, she is torn between keeping the ones she loves safe and finding a way to end the chaos that has ensued across her homeland. When the man responsible for an isle full of graves extends a helping hand, the tides begin to turn. In a desperate attempt to stop the bloodshed, Zale finds herself crossing the sea next to her sworn enemy.
Will Zale find an end to the reign of terror, or will her choices lead her to a discovery of something far more haunting?
412 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 26, 2022
57 people are currently reading
966 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
October 9, 2023
As someone has rightly said that - "Books are our true companions and they are the best pathfinder."
Tatum Holt's this book named "Across The Shattered Sea ( Of Sea and Stars book 1 ) is a marvelous piece of writing.
This book contains everything which we are looking for in our life eg. Fantasy, Magic, and Realism. The reasons behind reading the book are to know - "Will Zale find an end to the reign of terror or will her choices lead her to a discovery of something far more haunting?"
The story goes on with Zale and her younger sister Adilor in a fighting scenario.
The book holds the theme of loss, grief, betrayal, family, and many more. The book deals with the identity of Zale.
This book reminds me of my childhood and I enjoyed this book a lot. It's a ride of fantasy and a roller coaster ride.
Grab a copy of this book and enjoy reading idenIdentity Magic. Kudos to the Author. Highly Recommended Book.
Tatum Holt's this book named "Across The Shattered Sea ( Of Sea and Stars book 1 ) is a marvelous piece of writing.
This book contains everything which we are looking for in our life eg. Fantasy, Magic, and Realism. The reasons behind reading the book are to know - "Will Zale find an end to the reign of terror or will her choices lead her to a discovery of something far more haunting?"
The story goes on with Zale and her younger sister Adilor in a fighting scenario.
The book holds the theme of loss, grief, betrayal, family, and many more. The book deals with the identity of Zale.
This book reminds me of my childhood and I enjoyed this book a lot. It's a ride of fantasy and a roller coaster ride.
Grab a copy of this book and enjoy reading idenIdentity Magic. Kudos to the Author. Highly Recommended Book.
October 30, 2022
Despite being the author, the effort and tenacity this took to do this..... I am proud of me. I did this!
August 22, 2022
"I always strike first."
Stars: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Tension: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥.5
Are we sure this is Tatum Holts's Debut novel? Like what?! I LOVED it so much!
The writing was done well and I enjoyed it.
Across the Shattered Sea we see mainly the perspective of Zale our FMC but we also get a few awesome chapters in Orion's POV. 😁 There are a few past memory chapters that really did help put things into perspective.
Seven years prior to the main events, Zale and her younger sister Adilor lost her family in a set of Raids where the Renegades came and destroyed everything in their path, taking those who had magic back with them across the shattered seas.
Zale and Adilor make it out alive and Khail saves them from starvation. Fast forward 6 1/2 years later they come across Luca. The 4 of them become one for survival.
"Tell me, have you forgotten one of my most dominant traits, General?" I asked, inching closer.
He cocked his head sideways and laughed, "What? That you're a running champion at hide and seek?"
I laughed, mocking him. "No, not that, General, not that." My eyes moves to meet the storms receding inside his dark irises. "That I always strike first."
Certain circumstances occur where Orian gets close with Zale and she needs to decide if she can trust him to help save Adilors life.
Along the journey, we experience Betrayal and Heartbreak with multiple plot twists and decisions that could cost everything.
If you enjoy:
-Enemies to Lovers
-Strong FMC
-Morally Gray Characters
-Magic systems
- Self-Made Families
Please go do yourself a favor and go order Across the Shattered Sea
I can not wait for book 2! 😁
Thank you Tatum Holt for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Stars: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Tension: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥.5
Are we sure this is Tatum Holts's Debut novel? Like what?! I LOVED it so much!
The writing was done well and I enjoyed it.
Across the Shattered Sea we see mainly the perspective of Zale our FMC but we also get a few awesome chapters in Orion's POV. 😁 There are a few past memory chapters that really did help put things into perspective.
Seven years prior to the main events, Zale and her younger sister Adilor lost her family in a set of Raids where the Renegades came and destroyed everything in their path, taking those who had magic back with them across the shattered seas.
Zale and Adilor make it out alive and Khail saves them from starvation. Fast forward 6 1/2 years later they come across Luca. The 4 of them become one for survival.
"Tell me, have you forgotten one of my most dominant traits, General?" I asked, inching closer.
He cocked his head sideways and laughed, "What? That you're a running champion at hide and seek?"
I laughed, mocking him. "No, not that, General, not that." My eyes moves to meet the storms receding inside his dark irises. "That I always strike first."
Certain circumstances occur where Orian gets close with Zale and she needs to decide if she can trust him to help save Adilors life.
Along the journey, we experience Betrayal and Heartbreak with multiple plot twists and decisions that could cost everything.
If you enjoy:
-Enemies to Lovers
-Strong FMC
-Morally Gray Characters
-Magic systems
- Self-Made Families
Please go do yourself a favor and go order Across the Shattered Sea
I can not wait for book 2! 😁
Thank you Tatum Holt for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2022
This book has everything you need from magic, 🌶, to heartache and betrayal to morally grey characters which is all the love going on lately for them which I’m obsessed. Tatum wrote a amazing book and I can not wait for book two. Zale and Orian are my favorites! It’s a must read.
July 29, 2022
I had an ARC of this book, and I am absolutely gobsmacked. This book was fantastic! It had twists, turns, heartbreak, betrayal, magic, found family, and a gorgeous slow burn enemies to friends to (i’m hoping!!!) lovers. What a debut! I adored (most of) the characters (if you’ve read, you know whom I am hating on!). The writing was very descriptive and I absolutely felt the characters pain.
I am eagerly awaiting book 2 even though this one isn’t officially out yet.
I am eagerly awaiting book 2 even though this one isn’t officially out yet.
October 15, 2022
“I love to see something so beautiful become so fierce.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 2.5/5
Wow!! Where do I start?!?
This book took me for a freaking ride!!
Quite literally one of the The BEST RIDES of my life!
I devoured this book.. I started it and finished it the same day. I couldn’t put it down. If I tried my mind would start wandering back to the book.. so I HAD to finish it. I should have started it sooner! Holy sh*t! It was so good! That cliffhanger though!! I’m feenin for book two!
The world build was exceptional. The character building was so well done. I fell in love with these characters. I felt such a strong connection to them. I laughed, I cried, I screamed! This book had me feeling every emotion.
This book had EVERYTHING I could ask for in a fantasy book.
-Plot twists
-enemies to lovers (yesss please)
-spice
-dual POV
-bada$$ FMC
-magic
-sirens
-found family
-morally grey characters (my favorite)
Oh and let’s not forget about how beautiful the cover is. 🖤🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 2.5/5
Wow!! Where do I start?!?
This book took me for a freaking ride!!
Quite literally one of the The BEST RIDES of my life!
I devoured this book.. I started it and finished it the same day. I couldn’t put it down. If I tried my mind would start wandering back to the book.. so I HAD to finish it. I should have started it sooner! Holy sh*t! It was so good! That cliffhanger though!! I’m feenin for book two!
The world build was exceptional. The character building was so well done. I fell in love with these characters. I felt such a strong connection to them. I laughed, I cried, I screamed! This book had me feeling every emotion.
This book had EVERYTHING I could ask for in a fantasy book.
-Plot twists
-enemies to lovers (yesss please)
-spice
-dual POV
-bada$$ FMC
-magic
-sirens
-found family
-morally grey characters (my favorite)
Oh and let’s not forget about how beautiful the cover is. 🖤🖤
October 30, 2022
Tropes:
✔️Enemies to lovers
✔️Magic
✔️Found/self made family
✔️Strong FMC
This story has so many twists and tunes that it had me guessing. When I thought I knew something it just turned out I didn’t. Seeing everything Zale and her family go through just breaks my heart. I was at the edge of my seat biting my nails halfway through the book wanting to know what was going to happen next but at the same time not because I was scared of heartbreak. But I kept on because I needed to know how it ended and let me tell you that ending I was not expecting it. Cliffhangers should be illegal because here I am not knowing what to do now that I finished it and can’t read the second one.
Tatum Holt I need the next one out please!!
✔️Enemies to lovers
✔️Magic
✔️Found/self made family
✔️Strong FMC
This story has so many twists and tunes that it had me guessing. When I thought I knew something it just turned out I didn’t. Seeing everything Zale and her family go through just breaks my heart. I was at the edge of my seat biting my nails halfway through the book wanting to know what was going to happen next but at the same time not because I was scared of heartbreak. But I kept on because I needed to know how it ended and let me tell you that ending I was not expecting it. Cliffhangers should be illegal because here I am not knowing what to do now that I finished it and can’t read the second one.
Tatum Holt I need the next one out please!!
February 12, 2023
This book is a one stop shop for all people who love great writing, magic, love, twists, fun banter, found family and more.
Initially I saw the hype of this book and was excited to judge it for myself. The reviewer had been comparing Across the Shattered Sea to one of my favorite series, so my expectations were really high. And so was my fear of not agreeing or that the books would be far too similar. Spoiler alert they weren’t!
As soon as I started the story I was pulled in. For myself I did not experience a moment of boredom during this book..which often is what instantly makes my feelings about a book go down. I was intrigued by the characters and the plot, I was kept guessing at nearly every turn and when I thought I had it all figured out I soon found I didn’t.
This is one of my favorite reads of the year and I highlight recommend it to anyone who wants an adventure filled with twists and turns, diverse magic, characters that you grow fond of and the desire to pick up book two the moment you finish book one (though you’ll have to wait cuz it’s not available yet!) - so excited to see where this series goes!
Biggest trigger warning: loss of family/fire loss
Initially I saw the hype of this book and was excited to judge it for myself. The reviewer had been comparing Across the Shattered Sea to one of my favorite series, so my expectations were really high. And so was my fear of not agreeing or that the books would be far too similar. Spoiler alert they weren’t!
As soon as I started the story I was pulled in. For myself I did not experience a moment of boredom during this book..which often is what instantly makes my feelings about a book go down. I was intrigued by the characters and the plot, I was kept guessing at nearly every turn and when I thought I had it all figured out I soon found I didn’t.
This is one of my favorite reads of the year and I highlight recommend it to anyone who wants an adventure filled with twists and turns, diverse magic, characters that you grow fond of and the desire to pick up book two the moment you finish book one (though you’ll have to wait cuz it’s not available yet!) - so excited to see where this series goes!
Biggest trigger warning: loss of family/fire loss
January 12, 2023
I won’t lie, I didn’t want to put this down. It was an easy read, and one that was quick to pull me in.
Lots of twists I didn’t see coming… can’t wait for more.
Lots of twists I didn’t see coming… can’t wait for more.
September 11, 2022
I had the pleasure to be an advanced reader for this AMAZING debut novel! Nothing was what it seemed and it kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Amazing debut miss tatum! When’s book two?😅
October 24, 2022
Across the Shattered Sea is Book 1 in the Of Sea and Stars series. The Adventure & Mystery had My Full Attention! I Could Not put this Book down. Phenomenal World Building & Characters! Some of the Best I've Read. The Twists and Turns will have You on the Edge of Your Seat. Zale was such a Bad@ss FMC!! I loved the duel POV of Zale and Orion. So, I liked Orion from the beginning! Get ready For All The Feels, I laughed, I cried and cursed a little!! The Spice was on so nice. The Ending, ugh that Ending! I Need More!! Definitely Your Next 5 ⭐ Read..
February 28, 2023
I'm quite honored that I got to not only be an ARC reader, but also be one of the few physical ARC readers. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to what Tatum will give us in the future. As a debut novel, this really is amazing, so let's dive into that.
I'd like to start off by saying that this is the first book to truly make me cry. I've shed maybe one or two tears before, but this book I sank into my bed and shut it and just broke down. So congratulations, Tatum.
I'll be honest, the start was a little slow for me, but one thing I knew I loved immediately was her wordy writing. Tatum does not just say "She stabbed him." She describes the action and drags it out not too much, but just right.
Our characters, Zale, Adilor, Khali, and Luca are the perfect example of found family. They're all built and fleshed out and we learn the backgrounds of each of them at what seems to be the just right time. You don't meet them and get info dumped, but rather you meet them, an event that relates to their past happens and it leads in to who they are. And I really enjoyed that aspect of this book.
Zale trying to find the answers about who she is is the prevelant plot to this book and her friends are at her side helping her every step of the way. Her main opponent being General Orion, the King's pet, also gets his own perspective in this story. Seeing both sides of the same story really worked out well and I wish I got to see it more often in books.
We get to see deep inside of General Orion and put pieces together as we read. The story would have been the same without his perspectives, but I found myself longing for his chapters and wanting more of him. He was not just your everyday enemy, and instead was a full fleshed out character.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and am looking forward to continuing this series. Four out of five stars because I found the ending to be a little underwhelming after everything that this book was.
!!!ONTO THE SPOILERS!!!
Luca and Zale were more than perfect for each other. He was always gentle and caring with her and did everything he could to protect her. Until, you know, Tatum decided she wanted to make him ZALE'S ENEMY WHO JUST MANIPULATED HER INTO LOVING HIM!!
I personally feel that the plot could have progressed just fine without destroying me like that, but I may be a little biased, so I'll let it slide.
My biggest issue with this book was the ending. Yes, they opened the book that was supposed to be Zale's birth records. Yes, they found out the truth about Orion. But the ending doesn't feel like a true ending. It feels like it was left too open, even for a series. Zale goes missing with the Practitioner and Orion flips his shit and that's about it.
The. Sex. Was. Phenomenal! I went in to this thinking it was YA, boy was I wrong!! Not too much sex either, but the sex that was there was written very well!
Also, Adilor died, but that didn't really affect me that much. Like it was sad, but honestly I think the deaths of the younger siblings earlier on was worse.
I'd like to start off by saying that this is the first book to truly make me cry. I've shed maybe one or two tears before, but this book I sank into my bed and shut it and just broke down. So congratulations, Tatum.
I'll be honest, the start was a little slow for me, but one thing I knew I loved immediately was her wordy writing. Tatum does not just say "She stabbed him." She describes the action and drags it out not too much, but just right.
Our characters, Zale, Adilor, Khali, and Luca are the perfect example of found family. They're all built and fleshed out and we learn the backgrounds of each of them at what seems to be the just right time. You don't meet them and get info dumped, but rather you meet them, an event that relates to their past happens and it leads in to who they are. And I really enjoyed that aspect of this book.
Zale trying to find the answers about who she is is the prevelant plot to this book and her friends are at her side helping her every step of the way. Her main opponent being General Orion, the King's pet, also gets his own perspective in this story. Seeing both sides of the same story really worked out well and I wish I got to see it more often in books.
We get to see deep inside of General Orion and put pieces together as we read. The story would have been the same without his perspectives, but I found myself longing for his chapters and wanting more of him. He was not just your everyday enemy, and instead was a full fleshed out character.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and am looking forward to continuing this series. Four out of five stars because I found the ending to be a little underwhelming after everything that this book was.
!!!ONTO THE SPOILERS!!!
Luca and Zale were more than perfect for each other. He was always gentle and caring with her and did everything he could to protect her. Until, you know, Tatum decided she wanted to make him ZALE'S ENEMY WHO JUST MANIPULATED HER INTO LOVING HIM!!
I personally feel that the plot could have progressed just fine without destroying me like that, but I may be a little biased, so I'll let it slide.
My biggest issue with this book was the ending. Yes, they opened the book that was supposed to be Zale's birth records. Yes, they found out the truth about Orion. But the ending doesn't feel like a true ending. It feels like it was left too open, even for a series. Zale goes missing with the Practitioner and Orion flips his shit and that's about it.
The. Sex. Was. Phenomenal! I went in to this thinking it was YA, boy was I wrong!! Not too much sex either, but the sex that was there was written very well!
Also, Adilor died, but that didn't really affect me that much. Like it was sad, but honestly I think the deaths of the younger siblings earlier on was worse.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2022
AMAZING BOOK! 😍
The world the author created is really special, it has been through a war and people are trying to survive and make a way through it. But there is also special powers/abilities. The MC wants to find out more about them and her family and tries to find answers in this book. Along with friends she goes on this mission and a lot of things happen. Things I did NOT expect or see coming. There was heartbreak, loss, betrayal and so many more amazing things that makes you want to keep reading!
The book reads really easy and the author perfectly balanced the way she describes the surroundings and the plot. There was a good back and forth between memories from the past where you learn more about the MC and the present. I would never think this is a first book and I'm excited to read more from her! I'm definitely excited to see what happens next in this series because that ending! 🤯
I've read the book a week ago and honestly I still think about it a lot! For me that is a sign it's a good book!
If you're looking for a good fantasy read and want to support an indie author definitely read this book!
I was honored to arc read this book and I will be buying a pyshical copy once it comes out because this book needs to be in my collection! 😍
The world the author created is really special, it has been through a war and people are trying to survive and make a way through it. But there is also special powers/abilities. The MC wants to find out more about them and her family and tries to find answers in this book. Along with friends she goes on this mission and a lot of things happen. Things I did NOT expect or see coming. There was heartbreak, loss, betrayal and so many more amazing things that makes you want to keep reading!
The book reads really easy and the author perfectly balanced the way she describes the surroundings and the plot. There was a good back and forth between memories from the past where you learn more about the MC and the present. I would never think this is a first book and I'm excited to read more from her! I'm definitely excited to see what happens next in this series because that ending! 🤯
I've read the book a week ago and honestly I still think about it a lot! For me that is a sign it's a good book!
If you're looking for a good fantasy read and want to support an indie author definitely read this book!
I was honored to arc read this book and I will be buying a pyshical copy once it comes out because this book needs to be in my collection! 😍
August 4, 2022
I was one of the fortunate to be blessed to ARC read….now I feel that is a curse as I must wait to know what comes next!! Tatum takes you on a wild ride!!! You have been warned. Am I bias as this story contains many of my favorite tropes possibly, but that’s not the point. This book release August 26th and I will be ordering a paperback!!! Multiple POV?! (YES!) Enemies to god I hope lovers?!?!(YESS) twist and turns for not just our main character?!?!?! (DUH!!!) Tatum’s description is beautiful I truly felt like I was there amongst the characters!! I don’t want to spoil anything because my goodness let me just say betrayal is REAL just like this book is seriously good. Please go buy this when it releases I need to have a friend huddle over all the crazy and amazing things that happened!!
A note to the author I beg of you by the powers that be, give us a book 2!!! This can’t be where it ends!?!?!
A note to the author I beg of you by the powers that be, give us a book 2!!! This can’t be where it ends!?!?!
September 2, 2022
I received and ARC book from the author in exchange of an honest review.
At the beggining, I was intrigued on what was going on but a little bit lost. However, as I kept reading, everything clicked and I fell in love with the world the writer wrote, its characters, and the plot.
I loved the ending even though it left me with an illegal cliffhanger. I am looking forward to book 2.
At the beggining, I was intrigued on what was going on but a little bit lost. However, as I kept reading, everything clicked and I fell in love with the world the writer wrote, its characters, and the plot.
I loved the ending even though it left me with an illegal cliffhanger. I am looking forward to book 2.
August 3, 2022
4.5/5 stars! The author sent me an ARC of this book and to put it lightly - I LOVED IT!!! Magic, morally grey characters, betrayals, plot twists, this book has it all.
(ALSO I won’t spoil anything, but anyone who likes a hinted trope that rhymes with shmenemies to shmovers will eat this up).
I would say that in the start, I thought the writing was a little wordy; but as soon as I got into the story, it was BEAUTIFUL! The main character is heroic and a baddie and there are SO MANY AMAZING twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Also!! The story is always engaging but the plot doesn’t get ROLLING until the second half. Trust the process;)
I can’t WAIT to purchase this book and the sequel some day because COME ON!!! I have to see what happens next after all those cliffhangers.
(ALSO I won’t spoil anything, but anyone who likes a hinted trope that rhymes with shmenemies to shmovers will eat this up).
I would say that in the start, I thought the writing was a little wordy; but as soon as I got into the story, it was BEAUTIFUL! The main character is heroic and a baddie and there are SO MANY AMAZING twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Also!! The story is always engaging but the plot doesn’t get ROLLING until the second half. Trust the process;)
I can’t WAIT to purchase this book and the sequel some day because COME ON!!! I have to see what happens next after all those cliffhangers.
December 22, 2022
When I say this book had me in a chokehold, I mean an actual CHOKEHOLD. The emotional damage I’ve endured (but loved) is insane. The tension between the FMC and the MMC 👌🏽👌🏽 the plot had me hooked and now I’m dyinggggg for the next book.
November 8, 2022
A masterpiece! That's all I can say.
Very very excited to see how this continues!!!
Very very excited to see how this continues!!!
July 28, 2022
I was so excited to be chosen as an ARC reader for this book, and it certainly did not disappoint!!
The author, Tatum Holt, did an excellent job at providing just the right amount of history, insight, and descriptions in the world and character building, without getting repetitive or boring. I was able to easily picture the people and places in my mind. There were chapters scattered throughout that took place in the past, which I felt added a depth to the story.
The protagonist is a strong female, but she also shows her fears and weaknesses, which makes her more relatable. I won't say too much about the other characters, because I don't want to give anything away.....but there are definitely some unexpected twists, and delicious turns that you might not see coming!
The worse part about this book? Is that we have to wait for the next book, lol!! Until then, if you love a good fantasy read, with magic, a bit of spice, a plot that will keep you guessing, a world & characters that you can immerse yourself in, then I highly recommend reading Across the Shattered Sea!! ~Release date is Aug 26th, and you can preorder now for Kindle~
The author, Tatum Holt, did an excellent job at providing just the right amount of history, insight, and descriptions in the world and character building, without getting repetitive or boring. I was able to easily picture the people and places in my mind. There were chapters scattered throughout that took place in the past, which I felt added a depth to the story.
The protagonist is a strong female, but she also shows her fears and weaknesses, which makes her more relatable. I won't say too much about the other characters, because I don't want to give anything away.....but there are definitely some unexpected twists, and delicious turns that you might not see coming!
The worse part about this book? Is that we have to wait for the next book, lol!! Until then, if you love a good fantasy read, with magic, a bit of spice, a plot that will keep you guessing, a world & characters that you can immerse yourself in, then I highly recommend reading Across the Shattered Sea!! ~Release date is Aug 26th, and you can preorder now for Kindle~
July 30, 2022
Magic. Soulmates. War-torn countries. Evil kings. Found family. Dual POV. Morally grey characters. Fantastic setting. Sea monsters and sirens. Main character just trying to figure out her past and chase her destiny.
I was lucky enough to be both a beta reader and receive an ARC of this book. I’m a sucker for character development and great imagery, and this book has both! Along with plot twists galore. Once you feel like you have your footing again, plot twist! Fantastic. You really get into the character’s heads with a dual POV, which I can’t wait to see further developed. Ended on quite the cliffhanger and I’m already anxiously awaiting Book 2. Can’t wait to see more from this debut author.
I was lucky enough to be both a beta reader and receive an ARC of this book. I’m a sucker for character development and great imagery, and this book has both! Along with plot twists galore. Once you feel like you have your footing again, plot twist! Fantastic. You really get into the character’s heads with a dual POV, which I can’t wait to see further developed. Ended on quite the cliffhanger and I’m already anxiously awaiting Book 2. Can’t wait to see more from this debut author.
September 12, 2022
This book was amazing I loved it. It was very well written and had many twists and turns I couldn't put it down I can't wait till the next one comes out
November 11, 2022
was captivated right away by this book, and I was not disappointed!As I turned the page, I had no idea what to expect.I fell in love with the world, characters, and magic system as a whole!Additionally, !I couldn't put this book down, what with all the twists and turns!This book was written by Tatum Holt brilliantly, and I can't wait for the sequel! Plus I’ve got a new book boyfriend 😍
November 6, 2022
~ Multiple POV
~ Plot Twists
~ Magic/Gods
So everyone needs to add this to their TBR. It was so so good. I really enjoyed the writing style. I truly felt like I was in the world with the characters. The plot twist in this book have me in shock. My jaw hit the floor so many times. I enjoyed FMC Zale. She has been through a lot and she somehow managed to hold things to together. She is strong and she is honestly a badass. Oh and Orin... I won't say to much because spoilers but dang... I am excited for book 2. I have so many questions that need answers.
Across the Shattered Sea is book one in the Of the Sea & Stars series. It also Tatum Holy debut novel. This book recommended 18+
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Thank you so much Tatum for this opportunity. I can't wait to read what comes next.
~ Plot Twists
~ Magic/Gods
So everyone needs to add this to their TBR. It was so so good. I really enjoyed the writing style. I truly felt like I was in the world with the characters. The plot twist in this book have me in shock. My jaw hit the floor so many times. I enjoyed FMC Zale. She has been through a lot and she somehow managed to hold things to together. She is strong and she is honestly a badass. Oh and Orin... I won't say to much because spoilers but dang... I am excited for book 2. I have so many questions that need answers.
Across the Shattered Sea is book one in the Of the Sea & Stars series. It also Tatum Holy debut novel. This book recommended 18+
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Thank you so much Tatum for this opportunity. I can't wait to read what comes next.
December 9, 2022
Or maybe like a 4.5 star!
I really enjoyed the ride with this book! My booktok friends were loving it up so I decided I need to read this before my KU subscription ends!
It was full of action and twists and turns! The ending is what really got me! I LOVED THE ENDINGGG. So good.
I don’t know what to say for it not to be a spoiler. The fork.. 👀
There was a little bit of repetition. And I wanted to see more of 2 certain characters. And sometimes I didn’t connect with the main character.. but then sometimes I did!
But I laughed. I gasped. Some parts were gut wrenching. Well at least I know there will be a book two..
I really enjoyed the ride with this book! My booktok friends were loving it up so I decided I need to read this before my KU subscription ends!
It was full of action and twists and turns! The ending is what really got me! I LOVED THE ENDINGGG. So good.
I don’t know what to say for it not to be a spoiler. The fork.. 👀
There was a little bit of repetition. And I wanted to see more of 2 certain characters. And sometimes I didn’t connect with the main character.. but then sometimes I did!
But I laughed. I gasped. Some parts were gut wrenching. Well at least I know there will be a book two..
August 31, 2022
The book tells the story of strong female named Zale and her younger sister, Adilor, as they embark on a quest to find the truth of her ancestory with companions Luca and Khali to which their troubles entangle with a General named Orion of their enemy kingdom that has wrought evil in their lands and laid waste to their homes, family and friends.
Read if you like; enemies to lovers, self-made families, morally grey characters, magic, adventure then this is the book for you.
Beautiful descriptive detail, the book created imagery instantly with a few words and builds a brand new world to dive into within a few chapters. This book is unquie in how it tells its story, its nothing like what I've read before and I'm utterly entranced by the author- Tatum Holt's writing style.
The characters are fierce and captivating, even the side characters are hard not to fall in love with, though the story focuses on two POV's, the strong female character Zale and the murderous General Orion. Both have had a lot of death, lies and pain in their lives, a lot of characters have, though these two characters are found on different sides of the same coin, and its amazing to see that through the book that changes and develops.
The connections, relationships, friendships and the romances throughout this book are wonderfully inventive, and the tension between the main character and love interest in particular makes me want to read it again and again, not to mention the turmoil of emotions throughout this book as well is breathtaking.
This scene especially;
《 Just as he went to speak, I quelled his response and quipped, “See something you like?”My smile ran across my face against my will, like the tides at the moon’s mercy. Orion’s facial features softened, and he stuttered, “Don’t flatter yourself.”The last word stretched thin from his mouth as his wandering eyes seemed to be memorizing every inch of my face. 》
Though, I have to say the plot twists are my favourite parts of the book, because there's not just one but a mulitple, I've read plenty of betrayals and heartbreaks but these are cold as ice... and absolutely brilliant. And the history connected to this book, how it all pieces together... how the truth about one particular character comes out had my eyes widening and shouting 'Ohmygosh' a thousand times. Amazing. And the mind blowing reveal a few chapters after that and then the reveal after that, it was a shock filled whirlpool, I mean I won't give too much away but brace yourselves, this will take you on a marvellous heartbreaking journey.
I would highly recommend this book, I loved it and I'm so glad and so grateful that as an ARC reader for this author, Tantum Holt, that I was given said opportunity to read it, I cannot wait for the next installment!
An awe-inspiring debut!
Read if you like; enemies to lovers, self-made families, morally grey characters, magic, adventure then this is the book for you.
Beautiful descriptive detail, the book created imagery instantly with a few words and builds a brand new world to dive into within a few chapters. This book is unquie in how it tells its story, its nothing like what I've read before and I'm utterly entranced by the author- Tatum Holt's writing style.
The characters are fierce and captivating, even the side characters are hard not to fall in love with, though the story focuses on two POV's, the strong female character Zale and the murderous General Orion. Both have had a lot of death, lies and pain in their lives, a lot of characters have, though these two characters are found on different sides of the same coin, and its amazing to see that through the book that changes and develops.
The connections, relationships, friendships and the romances throughout this book are wonderfully inventive, and the tension between the main character and love interest in particular makes me want to read it again and again, not to mention the turmoil of emotions throughout this book as well is breathtaking.
This scene especially;
《 Just as he went to speak, I quelled his response and quipped, “See something you like?”My smile ran across my face against my will, like the tides at the moon’s mercy. Orion’s facial features softened, and he stuttered, “Don’t flatter yourself.”The last word stretched thin from his mouth as his wandering eyes seemed to be memorizing every inch of my face. 》
Though, I have to say the plot twists are my favourite parts of the book, because there's not just one but a mulitple, I've read plenty of betrayals and heartbreaks but these are cold as ice... and absolutely brilliant. And the history connected to this book, how it all pieces together... how the truth about one particular character comes out had my eyes widening and shouting 'Ohmygosh' a thousand times. Amazing. And the mind blowing reveal a few chapters after that and then the reveal after that, it was a shock filled whirlpool, I mean I won't give too much away but brace yourselves, this will take you on a marvellous heartbreaking journey.
I would highly recommend this book, I loved it and I'm so glad and so grateful that as an ARC reader for this author, Tantum Holt, that I was given said opportunity to read it, I cannot wait for the next installment!
An awe-inspiring debut!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2022
I'm having a hard time rating this one because the first half of the book was extremely hard for me to get into. The writing style is VERY descriptive, often times with words I had to stop and Google. So maybe that's just a ME issue and I'm not as educated as I should be 🤷♀️ i personally like to read books that are more realistic to every day speech. Again, maybe a me issue if I'm not as well read as others but here are some examples...
.
Ex 1: The darkness of the night moved my emotions with tenuous moonlight cast upon dead trees, upturned earth, and the wasteland that Eresirah had become. With every blink of my eyes, the evocative images of what the land was before the attacks, resonated.
.
Ex 2: Tendrils of icy fear collected in my chest, and when he turned to face me, my fear crystallized into a mass of gorgonizing terror. A vociferous outcry erupted from the innermost part of my being and knifed its way through the silence of the night, carving it in two.
.
I feel like this type of writing actually eased up a bit towards the end of the book and it flowed better and I was able to get into a groove of reading without being jarred out of the story. And I felt that the plot started to really move along nicely in the second half.
.
I had a hard time connecting with Zale. She cries. A lot. And as much as I think she's supposed to be this shrewd, badass FMC I just didn't think her actions were consistent with that. She had her moments and I hope to see more of those moments in book 2.
.
Of course I love the villain and was happy when he took center stage 😈 Orion is everything you want in the brooding and alluring dark MC. I wish we had more of him throughout the book and I hope to get more of his POV in book 2. I felt like I started really enjoying the story more once he was a part of it.
.
Also, the ending was random. Like it just stopped in the middle of a scene. There wasn't this big cliffhanger or big reveal or anything so I thought that was a bit odd.
.
Overall it's a well thought out story with a lot of twists and turns. A bit long imo but that's typical for first books in fantasy series where the world is being built and characters are being introduced. Often times I find books in series get better as they go so I will be reading book 2!
.
Ex 1: The darkness of the night moved my emotions with tenuous moonlight cast upon dead trees, upturned earth, and the wasteland that Eresirah had become. With every blink of my eyes, the evocative images of what the land was before the attacks, resonated.
.
Ex 2: Tendrils of icy fear collected in my chest, and when he turned to face me, my fear crystallized into a mass of gorgonizing terror. A vociferous outcry erupted from the innermost part of my being and knifed its way through the silence of the night, carving it in two.
.
I feel like this type of writing actually eased up a bit towards the end of the book and it flowed better and I was able to get into a groove of reading without being jarred out of the story. And I felt that the plot started to really move along nicely in the second half.
.
I had a hard time connecting with Zale. She cries. A lot. And as much as I think she's supposed to be this shrewd, badass FMC I just didn't think her actions were consistent with that. She had her moments and I hope to see more of those moments in book 2.
.
Of course I love the villain and was happy when he took center stage 😈 Orion is everything you want in the brooding and alluring dark MC. I wish we had more of him throughout the book and I hope to get more of his POV in book 2. I felt like I started really enjoying the story more once he was a part of it.
.
Also, the ending was random. Like it just stopped in the middle of a scene. There wasn't this big cliffhanger or big reveal or anything so I thought that was a bit odd.
.
Overall it's a well thought out story with a lot of twists and turns. A bit long imo but that's typical for first books in fantasy series where the world is being built and characters are being introduced. Often times I find books in series get better as they go so I will be reading book 2!
July 28, 2022
If you like books with soul crushing plot twists and parts that make you either gasp or cry, this is definitely a book for you!
The authors writing style is perfect for me, it’s the best blend of show and tell, there’s enough description there so that I can picture places and characters in my head, but it wasn’t too much to take me away from the story. I loved the story being both character driven and plot driven, I’m a reader that has to have a relatable character to fully immerse and enjoy the story, and this book definitely provided those in abundance (it also provided some characters we hate with all of our soul and wish to see experience a very VERY painful death at some point🤬).
I really enjoyed how the world history was drip fed to us, it wasn’t a knowledge bomb which definitely worked for me, and alongside that we learnt new parts of history as the characters did which really helped to feel empathy and understanding for the characters.
The plot twists still have me gasping now, I did not predict them at all and some of them not only caught me by complete surprise, but also genuinely left me in pieces. It shows an authors skill when you are able to feel the emotion in the same way the characters do, if they were hurting emotionally, I was hurting emotionally, it is the best sort of pain.
By the end of this book my heart had been through the emotional wringer, I’ve experienced joy, devastating loss, heartbreak, confusion and love. It was so thoroughly good that could not put this book down, I cannot wait for book 2 and I will be begging to arc read again!
The authors writing style is perfect for me, it’s the best blend of show and tell, there’s enough description there so that I can picture places and characters in my head, but it wasn’t too much to take me away from the story. I loved the story being both character driven and plot driven, I’m a reader that has to have a relatable character to fully immerse and enjoy the story, and this book definitely provided those in abundance (it also provided some characters we hate with all of our soul and wish to see experience a very VERY painful death at some point🤬).
I really enjoyed how the world history was drip fed to us, it wasn’t a knowledge bomb which definitely worked for me, and alongside that we learnt new parts of history as the characters did which really helped to feel empathy and understanding for the characters.
The plot twists still have me gasping now, I did not predict them at all and some of them not only caught me by complete surprise, but also genuinely left me in pieces. It shows an authors skill when you are able to feel the emotion in the same way the characters do, if they were hurting emotionally, I was hurting emotionally, it is the best sort of pain.
By the end of this book my heart had been through the emotional wringer, I’ve experienced joy, devastating loss, heartbreak, confusion and love. It was so thoroughly good that could not put this book down, I cannot wait for book 2 and I will be begging to arc read again!
October 31, 2022
Book: Across the Shattered Sea
Author: Tatum Holt
*Debut novel*
Started October 8th and finished October 30th. (Working *insert eye roll* amiright?)
Notes about Across the Shattered Sea:
- Plot twists like nobody’s business,
- Romance… and add a little (by a little i mean a fair amount) of spice,
- Shocking betrayal. I am talking betrayal like you’ve never seen before,
- DUAL POV
- World building like nobody’s business (but the good kind, not the dragged out boring almost DNF worthy kind… kind of like ACOTAR or TOG) totally worth it.
- death and murder/ dark scenes.
Tatum Holt is a creative genius. Seriously, I can’t think of any other author who put their heart, soul and creative power into a book more than Tatum! What is better than heart-wrenching betrayal, a world of magic, full of characters who do way too many bad things to be considered a good person and way too many good things to be a bad character. Someone who lives on the line as opposed to crossing it.
Also, I freaking love multiple POVs. It really gives you a good look and understanding of both sides, the reasons they do the things they do, what they’re thinking etc.
There is so much that I want to say but I can’t because there’s no way i am posting spoilers. If you want to know that bad, go read the book. You wont regret it.
Anyways this book is a solid 7 stars but since I cant technically rate it that I am rating it 5 stars. It’s a book that I was so invested in that I felt the need to re-read the second I was finished just so I could understand it in a different light.
If you like fantasy mixed with war, mixed with romance, mixed with thriller this book truly is for you. I was gasping, crying, laughing and smiling throughout the entire book. I did not once get bored.
I hope everyone has a chance to read this at least once in their lifetime so you can truly experience the joy it is to read Tatums work.
One of my favourite parts of this book: “Even breathless in a biting cold sea, he did not leave me. He was going to stay until the end. That was the gift of being Khali’s friend. If you were to find yourself in danger, he’d fight tot he way out with you, and sometimes even for you. Diving into a timeless sea with a heinous beast swimming around was the bare minimum I could have done for him, because i know he’d do so much more to save me”
Like what !?!?!!?!? How does this one part make me rethink my entire existence? I cant hype this book up enough.
Author: Tatum Holt
*Debut novel*
Started October 8th and finished October 30th. (Working *insert eye roll* amiright?)
Notes about Across the Shattered Sea:
- Plot twists like nobody’s business,
- Romance… and add a little (by a little i mean a fair amount) of spice,
- Shocking betrayal. I am talking betrayal like you’ve never seen before,
- DUAL POV
- World building like nobody’s business (but the good kind, not the dragged out boring almost DNF worthy kind… kind of like ACOTAR or TOG) totally worth it.
- death and murder/ dark scenes.
Tatum Holt is a creative genius. Seriously, I can’t think of any other author who put their heart, soul and creative power into a book more than Tatum! What is better than heart-wrenching betrayal, a world of magic, full of characters who do way too many bad things to be considered a good person and way too many good things to be a bad character. Someone who lives on the line as opposed to crossing it.
Also, I freaking love multiple POVs. It really gives you a good look and understanding of both sides, the reasons they do the things they do, what they’re thinking etc.
There is so much that I want to say but I can’t because there’s no way i am posting spoilers. If you want to know that bad, go read the book. You wont regret it.
Anyways this book is a solid 7 stars but since I cant technically rate it that I am rating it 5 stars. It’s a book that I was so invested in that I felt the need to re-read the second I was finished just so I could understand it in a different light.
If you like fantasy mixed with war, mixed with romance, mixed with thriller this book truly is for you. I was gasping, crying, laughing and smiling throughout the entire book. I did not once get bored.
I hope everyone has a chance to read this at least once in their lifetime so you can truly experience the joy it is to read Tatums work.
One of my favourite parts of this book: “Even breathless in a biting cold sea, he did not leave me. He was going to stay until the end. That was the gift of being Khali’s friend. If you were to find yourself in danger, he’d fight tot he way out with you, and sometimes even for you. Diving into a timeless sea with a heinous beast swimming around was the bare minimum I could have done for him, because i know he’d do so much more to save me”
Like what !?!?!!?!? How does this one part make me rethink my entire existence? I cant hype this book up enough.
September 25, 2022
I received an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Across the Shattered Sea proves itself to be a compelling story that holds promise. The concept was intriguing and I found myself enjoying the adventures and characters, especially feeling drawn to Zale and Orion's relationship from the get-go. While I was captivated by the world and the action, I was taken out of it at times due to the overly descriptive writing, and I love descriptive writing. In part, I think the writing lent itself to helping world-build and give a better sense of time and place. However, in other instances, I found the descriptions to feel repetitive and in a smaller measure, confusing. I think that some words were used out of context which gave me pause.
The story itself was a slow-burn, yet there was enough action within each chapter to keep me going, and by 50% I was truly hooked. I would be interested to see where the story goes as the series continues as there is room for so much more, which is very exciting. More than anything, I am intrigued to know more about the magic of the world, the relationship the characters have with gods and goddesses, and all of the fantasy elements that set the premise up for success.
Across the Shattered Sea proves itself to be a compelling story that holds promise. The concept was intriguing and I found myself enjoying the adventures and characters, especially feeling drawn to Zale and Orion's relationship from the get-go. While I was captivated by the world and the action, I was taken out of it at times due to the overly descriptive writing, and I love descriptive writing. In part, I think the writing lent itself to helping world-build and give a better sense of time and place. However, in other instances, I found the descriptions to feel repetitive and in a smaller measure, confusing. I think that some words were used out of context which gave me pause.
The story itself was a slow-burn, yet there was enough action within each chapter to keep me going, and by 50% I was truly hooked. I would be interested to see where the story goes as the series continues as there is room for so much more, which is very exciting. More than anything, I am intrigued to know more about the magic of the world, the relationship the characters have with gods and goddesses, and all of the fantasy elements that set the premise up for success.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2022
✨Debut Author Alert✨
Title: Across the Shattered Sea
Author: Tatum Holt
Release Date: 8.26.2022
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌊Romance
🌊Shocking twists and turns
🌊Betrayal
🌊Found family
🌊War torn lands
🌊Murder & Bloodshed
🌊Dual POV - MC & Villain
I am beyond excited to share my review of ATSS with all of you. It is a New Adult Fantasy novel and a stunning one at that.
It's also a debut, self published novel 🤯 I loved this so much and was put in a book hangover for 2 weeks after I finished it.
Tatum has a way with describing heartbreaking and violent scenes. I highlighted so many parts that ripped my heart out. Emotional damage occurs multiple times in this book. 😂
There was a great build up of the world, but it didn't overshadow the plot or the characters. I felt like I was in the trenches with Zale (FMC), Adilor, Luca and Khail as they searched for the answers to their magic, battled with creatures in the woods and tried to avoid death at every turn. The drama, the spice and the absolute freaking cliffhanger ending had me screaming! Truly a unique and fresh story!
If you loved the Throne of Glass series, you will love Across the Shattered Sea!!!
Title: Across the Shattered Sea
Author: Tatum Holt
Release Date: 8.26.2022
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌊Romance
🌊Shocking twists and turns
🌊Betrayal
🌊Found family
🌊War torn lands
🌊Murder & Bloodshed
🌊Dual POV - MC & Villain
I am beyond excited to share my review of ATSS with all of you. It is a New Adult Fantasy novel and a stunning one at that.
It's also a debut, self published novel 🤯 I loved this so much and was put in a book hangover for 2 weeks after I finished it.
Tatum has a way with describing heartbreaking and violent scenes. I highlighted so many parts that ripped my heart out. Emotional damage occurs multiple times in this book. 😂
There was a great build up of the world, but it didn't overshadow the plot or the characters. I felt like I was in the trenches with Zale (FMC), Adilor, Luca and Khail as they searched for the answers to their magic, battled with creatures in the woods and tried to avoid death at every turn. The drama, the spice and the absolute freaking cliffhanger ending had me screaming! Truly a unique and fresh story!
If you loved the Throne of Glass series, you will love Across the Shattered Sea!!!
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