Book Review: Upon a Starlit Tide by Kell Woods
When I first came across Upon a Starlit Tide by Kell Woods, I was instantly drawn not only by its dreamy cover but also by the intriguing premise of a dark, feminist retelling of The Little Mermaid. As someone who’s always been captivated by the ocean’s mystique and fairy tales reimagined through a contemporary lens, I knew I had to dive in. And let me tell you, this book took my breath away! The ending—oh my stars, it broke me. 😭
The story revolves around Lucinde Léon, a fiercely relatable young woman who grapples with her identity while living in a sumptuous yet treacherous world. From the very first chapter, I was entranced by Woods’s evocative writing. One moment that truly stood out was when Luce dons a coat described as "a briny leather casing that hid the soft, female truth of her." The imagery throughout is simply lush, sparking vivid scenes in my mind and pulling me deeper into Luce’s journey.
The pacing is a delightful slow burn, allowing readers to savor the gradual development of relationships and themes without feeling rushed. I relished the rich descriptions of the fae creatures—like jetins draped in feathers and a cheeky lutine sporting a jaunty red hat—each adding layers to this enchanting world. The alliterative names and the whimsical references to mythical beings pulled me in even more, sparking my curiosity about how they would intertwine with Luce’s fate.
The relationship dynamics are compelling as well. Initially, I was left wondering if I’d stumbled into a love triangle, but Woods masterfully keeps the focus primarily on Luce’s personal growth. The hints of magic, especially with the storm-stone—which carries protective magic and speaks to the connection between the fae and the sea—add depth to the plot and raise questions that kept me turning pages late into the night.
What truly resonated with me were the darker threads woven throughout the narrative—the exploration of power, loss, and identity, highlighted by quotes like, “There are still places of beauty and wonder left in the world.” As Luce navigates her complicated reality, you can feel the tug of both light and dark within her, making her journey all the more poignant. Especially as she wrestles with her own instincts, leading to heartbreaking decisions.
The breathtaking conclusion left me feeling a kaleidoscope of emotions. It’s not just an ending; it’s a glorious moment that reflects the complexities of life, love, and the choices we make. I was both despondent and uplifted, a testament to Woods’s ability to craft not just a story, but a deeply transformative experience. My mind raced with thoughts of the characters and the moral quandaries posed. Did Luce truly find her freedom, or was it yet another chain disguised as liberation?
Upon a Starlit Tide is perfect for anyone who adores lush prose, a slow simmering romance, and, most importantly, a fresh and feminist twist on beloved tales. Whether you’re a fan of fairy tales or someone looking for a richly layered narrative, this book will offer you more than enough magic to get lost in. It’s a journey that not only entertains but also prompts reflection on the beauty and darkness that coexist in all our stories.
So grab your copy, find a quiet spot, and let the waves of this mesmerizing tale wash over you. Trust me, you won’t regret it! 🌊✨
[ad_2]