Upon a Starlit Tide – Kell Woods

Nothing like a retelling to keep the TBR fresh – even if it is a darker one.

Thanks to Tor Books for the gifted copy

UPON A STARLIT TIDE – Kell Woods (Released February 12th, 2025)

Book Description:

A dark and enchanting fairy tale-inspired historical fantasy combining elements of “The Little Mermaid” and “Cinderella” into a wholly original tale of love, power, and betrayal.

Saint-Malo, Brittany, 1758.
For Lucinde Leon, the youngest daughter of one of Saint-Malo’s wealthiest ship-owners, the high walls of the city are more hindrance than haven. While her sisters are interested in securing advantageous marriages, Luce dreams of escaping her elegant but stifling home and joining a ship’s crew. Only Samuel—Luce’s best friend and an English smuggler—understands her longing for the sea, secretly teaching her to sail whenever she can sneak away. For Luce, the stolen time on the water with Samuel is precious.

One stormy morning, Luce’s plans are blown off course when she rescues Morgan de Chatelaine, the youngest son of the most powerful ship-owner in Saint-Malo, from the sea. Immediately drawn to his charm and sense of adventure, she longs to attend the glittering ball held in honor of his safe return and begins to contemplate a different kind of future for herself.

But it is not only Luce’s hopes at stake—the local fae are leaving Brittany and taking their magic with them, while the long-standing war with the English means Saint-Malo is always at risk of attack. As Luce is plunged into a world of magic, brutality, and seduction, secrets that have long been lost in the shadowy depths of the ocean begin to rise to the surface. The truth of her own power is growing brighter and brighter, shining like a sea-glass slipper. Or the scales of a sea-maid’s tail.

My Thoughts: 5/5 stars

Part retelling, part historical fiction, folklore, mythology, fantasy, and a dash of romance made for a beautifully captivating read. Not just one fairytale but a combination of The Little Mermaid, Cinderella, and a sprinkling of Bluebeard. I love retellings and the combination of the three made for a unique story that still felt almost nostalgic at the same time. 

There’s something about historical fiction that keeps me mesmerized. The fact that the author can immediately transport us to the 18th-century town of Saint-Malo and really immerse us in the drama and goings on of the town will always impress me. When historical fiction is done right, it’s compelling and enchanting. Especially when you sprinkle in magic and legends, pirates and storms, sea maids and romance, and hope where there is darkness. 

If you want something you can really get lost in and you love a good fairytale, then this needs to be at the top of the list.