Today, I’m thrilled to share my thoughts on a truly enchanting and atmospheric read that swept me away to 18th-century France with a deliciously dark twist, Upon a Starlit Tide by Kell Woods. If you’re like me and crave fantasy with a side of swoon-worthy romance and a touch of the eerie, then grab your drink and let’s dive in.

This book is described as a reimagining that whispers of Cinderella meeting The Little Mermaid, but trust me, this is not a fairytale for the faint of heart. Woods crafts a world that is both breathtakingly beautiful and shadowed with secrets, exploring decidedly adult themes that kept me utterly captivated.

For fans of atmospheric fantasy and slow-burn romance, this is a must-read! If you’ve been spellbound by the lush prose of authors like Ava Reid, the darkly whimsical charm of T. Kingfisher, or the hauntingly beautiful worlds of Kelly Andrew, then you’ll find yourself right at home in Woods’ writing. Her style is immersive and demands to be savored, each sentence painting a vivid picture of this small French town and its hidden magic.

The story intricately weaves together themes of class systems, the complexities of family relationships, and a slow-burn romance that simmers with longing, all touched by a delicate thread of the fantastical. It’s the kind of book that lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the final page.

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Why you should pick this up:

• Enchanting and Atmospheric World: Lose yourself in a beautifully rendered 18th-century French setting with a touch of eerie magic.
• Unique Retelling: A fresh and mature take on classic fairytale elements.
• Lush and Evocative Writing: Woods’ prose is a treat to savor.
• Intriguing Themes: Explores class, family, and romance with depth.
• Perfect for Fans of: Dark fantasy romance, atmospheric fantasy, slow burn romance books, adult fairytale retellings, and authors like Ava Reid, T. Kingfisher, and Kelly Andrew.

Things to consider:

• Slow Pacing: This isn’t a book to rush; it requires patience to fully appreciate the world-building and character development.
• Single Narration (Audiobook): While excellent, some readers might prefer dual perspectives.

Overall, Upon a Starlit Tide is a captivating journey into a world of enchantment, secrets, and burgeoning romance. If you’re seeking a historical fantasy novel with a darkly romantic edge and appreciate slow-burn fantasy, add this one to your TBR!

Have you read any books by Kell Woods? What are your favorite dark fantasy romance reads? Let me know in the comments below!