ARC Review: The Siren and the Deep Blue Sea by Kerrelyn Sparks

Title: The Siren and the Deep Blue Sea

Author: Kerrelyn Sparks

Series: Enchanted by Magic

Page Length: 416

Publication Date: Aug. 25, 2020

Publisher: Kensington

Synopsis: Four sisters have become queens, rulers of all that Aerthlan’s two moons embrace. The last sister will forge her own path . . .

Signs and Seals

Raised on the magic-seeped Isle of Moon, Maeve is used to unusual powers–and the way they fuel the politics of her world. But when she discovers an ability to shape-shift at will, she knows who she wants to share it with first. Brody, the enigmatic, infuriating shifter-spy has always made time for Maeve. But it’s been almost two months since she’s seen him. And though no one else believes Brody is in danger, Maeve is more than ready to rescue him herself.

The rumors Brody’s investigating are terrifying: a secret army of magic-users, in the service of the cruel Circle of Five. But when he uncovers the identity of one of the Five, the mission becomes personal. Cursed as a boy by the Sea Witch, Brody can spend only two hours a day in his human form, a restriction that limits his future and muzzles his heart. Plus Maeve teases him for being such a pretty doggy instead of appreciating his manly charms. To win his freedom, he must take on a terrible disguise. And when Maeve finds out, she’ll unleash a tempest like no other . . .

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LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

My Review:

The Siren and the Deep Blue Sea is the final story in the Embraced series. The story centers around Maeve, a selkie and the youngest of the Embraced sisters. Brody has missed their monthly swim twice, which has never happened before, and Maeve is certain something is wrong. When she hears that Brody is investigating a terrifying rumor that the Circle of Five has amassed an Embraced army to take over all of the kingdoms, Maeve determines to find him.

Maeve knows this search will be difficult. Because of a curse, Brody can only remain in human form for two hours a day and must spend the rest of the day in a different form. However, Maeve’s journey leads her to the island of the infamous and evil Sea Witch, who is connected to Maeve and Brody in more ways than one. The couple must deal with the shocking secrets learned on the island, and they must defeat the Sea Witch if they ever hope to have Brody’s curse lifted.

This is an epic conclusion to a wonderful series. In typical Kerrelyn Sparks fashion, the story is immersive with vivid detail, interesting characters, sharp dialogue, and a well-paced plot. I love that we finally learn more about Brody’s past and what led to his curse. I also love that Maeve and Brody finally were able to admit their feelings for each other.

Maeve is a wonderful protagonist. Brave and fierce, she is tired of feeling left out. She wants to take charge of her life and her love, but she won’t sit on the sidelines and wait for something to happen. Connected by their mysterious pasts and their shifting abilities, Maeve and Brody have loved each other for years, but they both held back their feelings. You can feel the tension, longing, and unfulfilled desire in each of their interactions. Their love is palpable and makes for a deliciously intriguing read.

I also want to comment on the other romance in the novel. Princess Elinor and Nevis are an unlikely yet completely perfect pair. Their awkward flirtations in the midst of some very intense situations are sweet and comical. To see Nevis, a man who is calm, cool, and collected under the most stressful of circumstances, stumble and fumble over Elinor, who, in turn, teases and flirts, endears me even more to their characters.

The antagonists in the story are also dynamically developed, which makes their vile nature even more apparent. It is clear that the evil Circle of Five and the Chameleon are the antitheses of Maeve, Brody, and their friends. Cruel, heartless, and greedy, they will stop at nothing to gain power, even if it means hurting, using, and betraying people. I loved seeing all of the major characters from previous books work together to defeat the villainous threat that hangs over them all.

In addition to the well-developed characters, the story is a fascinating page-turner. Filled with action and adventure, the story builds up to an epic showdown between good and evil. Shifters, dragons, betrayal, Embraced kids, curses, witches, and more add to the fantastical world and well-constructed plot. I can’t recommend this series enough! Thanks so much to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

Rating:

Favorite Parts:

The love story, of course! Maeve and Brody have loved each other for a long time but have held back. This makes for explosive chemistry and a passionate romance.
The immersive world-building. It is unique, creative, and vivid.
The epic battle/ending! Everything I wanted and more!

Recommendations:

As this is the final book in the series, I would recommend reading the others first. Readers who enjoy epic stories with fantastic romantic adventures will love this story!!

The Embraced Series: