Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Goodreads Synopsis
Set in a kingdom where danger lurks beneath the sea, mermaids seek vengeance with song, and magic is a choice. She will reign. As princess of the island kingdom Visidia, Amora Montara has spent her entire life training to be High Animancer — the master of souls. The rest of the realm can choose their magic, but for Amora, it’s never been a choice. To secure her place as heir to the throne, she must prove her mastery of the monarchy’s dangerous soul magic. When her demonstration goes awry, Amora is forced to flee. She strikes a deal with Bastian, a mysterious pirate: he’ll help her prove she’s fit to rule, if she’ll help him reclaim his stolen magic. But sailing the kingdom holds more wonder — and more peril — than Amora anticipated. A destructive new magic is on the rise, and if Amora is to conquer it, she’ll need to face legendary monsters, cross paths with vengeful mermaids, and deal with a stow-away she never expected… or risk the fate of Visidia and lose the crown forever. I am the right choice. The only choice. And I will protect my kingdom.
Review
This book was such a fun and adventurous read that takes you on this incredible journey with Amora who is looking to save her kingdom. With pirates, magic and mermaids this mystical world completely draws you in and you find yourself never wanting to leave.
The characters in this book were well-written and had great development. I quickly grew to love them with their own unique personalities and humour but I definitely felt connected to Amora. She’s a strong, female protagonist who won’t take no for an answer and fights for what she believes in. She finds out a lot of hard truths in this story, but it only makes her stronger and more determined.
The book started off a little bit slow for me but I think that’s just because this is the first book in a series and it needed to set the stage with the world building and introduction to the magical system. I honestly loved the magical system and found Amora’s so interesting! I loved the range of abilities and would definitely like to see more explored in the next one!
If you’re looking for an epic sea adventure than this one is for you. Take the plunge and follow Amora and her group on this amazing adventure across the seas in hopes of conquering a dark new magic which is threatening her kingdom.
Rating: 4/5 stars