This book was…fine. It did not blow me away. I didnt really care about the characters. I Can see why the writing is good for some but for me, it just wasn’t giving.

This was a huge let down as well, because this was high on my list of anticipated reads of this year.

Set in the recently unified country of Brunnestad, a high class member of each of the former countries is sent on a mission to find the source of magic for the king to secure his rule. First things first, the king sounds like a right prat, he is self serving and seems to have no real ambition of his own other than following in his father's footsteps and waging wars to secure more land. An expert in the field, and member of the Royal court staff, is in charge of this mission where old friendships are tested and newer relationships brought to the light. I loved the atmosphere of this book, the folklore creatures included added to the sense of myth and magic. The realtionships between the group from The Princesszin are all fleshed out fully and motivations are explained through a mixture of back story and gossip. Lorelei and Sylvia are an unlikely pair - but this may be more due to Lorelei being the principle narrator and her feelings being Yevanisch and being attracted to the next in line to rule a conquered territory! I loved it, perfect mystical whodunnit mixed in with exploration and uncovering secrets.

Allison Saft smashed it!
A book about dark academia and mystery with a little bit of German lore in it to make everything slowly unfold...
It keeps you on your toes and wonder in anticipation on what will happen next. The guilt that the mc is carrying around is something delightful to see evolve, as it is significant to the story itself. Growing and learning more to become better and smarter.

In this relationship you have the 'opposites attract' trope. Where one falls harder after saying that they could never love someone like the mc.
A SLOW burn okay but in the end everything is nice so what. These characters have so much depth and layers like mentioned before. It shaped them very well and it explains why a certian decision is made.

I would definitely recommend it to everyone if they want to explore more about this type of mystery with sappic tones in it to discover yourself a little bit.

This book completely swept me off my feet, and I didn't even care that there were one or two holes in the plot.
It's a rivals-to-lovers slowburn sapphic romance, which brings both the rivals-to-lovers and slowburn parts to the max. It didn't even take two pages, the "frustration" between our two heroines was palpable, and afterwards this tension remained throughout the book, largely thanks to the humorous narration. It was a lot of fun to be with me when I read it, let's just say it. I'm not a romance reader but with a good rivals-to-lovers, anything is achievable.

The plot was that a university research team on behalf of a king tries to find the Greatest Magical Source Ever, at the beginning of which the expedition leader is killed, which slowly trickles forward and contains a plothole or two, but they were not interested in such a big arc holes that is unspeakable. Many different magical creatures appear in the book, which are called wildeleutes here. You have to communicate effectively with each of them in a different way, which our heroine doesn't understand at all, especially compared to her rival, and I had a lot of fun with their contrast. In addition to these, there are even deeper themes, it has a Jewish main character and exploring antisemitism in folktales, it has a little political shenanigan, it has a little grief processing, it has a little sentient forest, what else can I say to convince you to read it? Or put it on a waiting list until it releases.

DNF at 21%

Unfortunately, I really didn't vibe with the writing style. I found it hard to get through, probably because of the descriptive and flowery language. Also, I had zero connection with any of the characters. Perhaps they would have grown on me as I continued the story, but I believe I gave the book a fair shot. I didn't like Lorelei's character and I felt very disconnected from her.

These things combined made me want to DNF. However, this doesn't mean that it's a bad book. I believe that the right audience will love this story! It's just not for me.

*Thanks to NetGalley and Daphne Press for an eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

Thank you, NetGalley for this book's ARC.

It's important to say up front that I enjoyed this book so much that I now have a digital preorder and am also trying to get back onto Illumicrate to get their gorgeous hardcover special edition. It's remarkable to me that this is Allison Saft's Adult Fantasy debut because it's so gently immersive and interesting as far as fantasy worlds go and the relationships are complex and engaging.

I'll talk about characters in a bit since those frequently catch and hold my interest. However, in this instance, I think the worldbuilding is truly the star. The politics between the humans based on where they are from, the magical creatures seeped into the world, and the mythical font of power sought by the expedition is nuanced and engaging. Saft's prose helps slowly immerse us in this world and all its fascinating creatures and alliances.

I loved the characters in this book as well, primarily for the way they interact with the world and each other. Lorelai is closed-off, accustomed to racism, and of common birth. As she struggles to gain the respect and position she craves, she has discarded any emotional bonds or support. Sylvia is her rival, beloved by all who meet her and viewing the world through a lens of love and wonder. Lorelai cannot stand her but when their mentor is murdered during an expedition, the two must work together because they're the only ones they can trust on board.

The world is enticingly beautiful and dangerous, the characters have their own agendas and allegiances, and the main characters are obsessed with each other but unable to trust each other enough to be vulnerable. Lorelai, in particular, is relatable with her guilt and suspicion towards all the noble-born members of the expedition and more so when her mentor is murdered, leaving her in charge. The back-and-forth in the rivalry between Lorelei and Sylvia is perfectly executed through this story and is as lush and complex as the magical world around them.

This is an absolutely flawless execution of dark academia, rivals to lovers, politically charged magical quest with a party of dubious nobles and I loved every page of it!

Excellent vibes were promised and a Dark and Drowning Tide went above and beyond with delivering them.

Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an ARC!

I am so sad this is a stand-alone because this was genuinely the most unique and original magic system that I have read in a while. I loved the interpretation of fairy tales and fae magic.

There is nothing I love more than a messy, reluctant team of slightly psychopathic childhood friends. As much as I adore the found family trope this was slightly more fun complete all the back stabbing and political intrigue that I could hope for.

Saft really mastered the academic rivals/enemies to lovers with this one. The slow burn was excellent with so many moments where I thought this is it - it’s happening! Only for something to come between the Lorelei and Sylvia again and again. The miscommunications were realistic and added to the plot, so instead of being frustrated I was just eager to keep reading.

I do wish there had been a bit more development to the childhood friendships of the 5 in the expedition and the King. It was interesting to have younger characters who had lived such lives already, and I would’ve loved to have seen more stories of this time to ground their relationships even more. I also felt like the resolution to all of Sylvia and Lorelei’s problems were a little too easy given the high stakes but this didn’t tear me up too much because I do love a fairy tale ending.

A Dark and Drowning Tide: A Riveting Blend of Folklore and Fantasy

Immersed in folklore, magic, and mythic creatures, A Dark and Drowning Tide is an ideal choice for readers fascinated by enchanted forests and the enigmatic presence of malevolent spirits.

Though the narrative unfolds gradually, it quickly becomes an engrossing and high-stakes adventure, enriched by a gothic undertone that creates a mesmerizing, fantastical atmosphere. The novel draws upon well-researched German-inspired folklore and history, seamlessly integrating these elements into the academic milieu of its characters. While the myriad of creatures and characters can initially be challenging to track, they ultimately become endearing and integral to the story’s progression.

Saft skillfully provides each character with distinct personalities and roles, making the large cast manageable and engaging. The dynamic between Lorelai and Sylvia is particularly well-crafted, and the development of the characters throughout the novel is both compelling and satisfying. Notably, the narrative's diversity offers a refreshing perspective in the often homogenous realm of romantasy.

With a beautifully evocative writing style that complements its rich world-building, A Dark and Drowning Tide masterfully intertwines folklore and magic with themes of death and high-stakes drama, featuring intricate characters and a captivating plot.

I really enjoyed this one! I can see it being big for this year, it's refreshing to have a queer story and I mentioned in my goodreads reviews, being able to share it with relatives who are part of the lgbtqia+ community and it being literally a book they love is so so special, so thank you for that. I loved the writing style, it was so atmospheric and descriptive I could see things clearly throughout the story without issue trying to think whay could that be, I loved the gothic feel throughout and the tense atmosphere of not knowing who to trust and I loved the relationship between Lorelei and Sylvia and how it changed and took shape throughout the book and it was written so beautifully, I really enjoyed this! Thank you so much for allowing me to read it in advance!

A dark romance along the lines of A Study in Drowning? Sign me up!

Although this was not as satisfying, this was well written with fully fleshed out characters and had you wondering who the antagonists were right until the reveal. Lorelai is the brilliant but discriminated against, folklorist who is determined to prove that she is worthy. Sylvia is the golden girl - almost literally and they are.. rivals.

The writing is atmospheric and lyrical, having you picture the magic throughout. The emotions are exquisitely expressed in every frame and you can't help but be drawn into the story.

I did struggle with the pacing to an extent but this is definitely something that the dark academia lovers will enjoy.

A dark and drowning tide was one of my most anticipated reads of 2024, and I was so excited when I got an ARC approved from NetGalley!

I have to say that, so far this year, all of the new releases have been disappointing for me, so I had very low expectations for this book.

It follows six scholars as they go on an expedition to find the source of all magic in the land, in order to deliver it to the king.

Overall, I did really like some aspects of it, but I found the book really confusing, as it was doing so many things at once instead of focusing only on the romance, like the marketing campaign suggested.

The main issue I had with the book is the fact that I felt really confused from the beginning: who are all these characters? And what do they have to do? The main character already knows all the other people in the story, but we don't: she has a strong hatred for the other female leads of the expedition, but we don't find out why until later in the book.
Furthermore, all of the other characters also know each other, since they all grew up together, creating another layer of information that we as readers are missing.

The magic and the folklore were really interesting, but they were not fully explained.
Beside the fact that the book was a little predictable, I liked the romance between the two main characters, the political discussions, and Saft's writing style, but at this point, I don't know if I'll read her next book.

Cute, dangerous, maddening. The story was fascinating and I was eager to find out who-dunnit. There's also a cute ending for all you romantics, you. Also, just look at that cover!

📚 review 📚
a dark and drowning tide - alison saft

a dark academia murder mystery on a boat with lesbians? sign me up!

you know what i love as much as gay dark academia murder mysteries? gay dark academia murder mysteries that are infused with jewish folklore - and that’s exactly what you get with a dark and drowning tide.

despite this being the perfect combination of themes for me, i did consider dnfing at various points. this is essentially a thinly veiled history of germany - the king is even called wilhelm and he is interested in unification and fascism. only it is dressed up as a fantasy with magic and mysticism. though i appreciated that it didn’t shy away from prejudice and showed what was a reality for many families living in europe during this time, I’m not sure that it was sensitively done throughout the whole thing.

a dark and drowning tide is out in september and is perfect for those autumn vibes. thank you to @netgalley for the early copy.

I love when a book makes you remember why you love reading.

Saft’s adult debut was a wild ride. Full of politics, betrayal grief and longing and I LOVED IT.

Featuring sapphic academic rivals alongside a a murder mystery with so much folklore throughout???? You better be adding this book to your tbrs.

This story was deeply immersive with tension remaining high throughout. I think this is the perfect book to be reading during the autumn and winter months. The story was brilliant with so much yearning and beautiful portrayals of dealing with grief.

I need to order myself a physical copy just to get myself the satisfaction of highlighting and tabbing.

Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review

Thank you so much to Daphne Press providing me with an E-ARC of this book.

Gosh. Sapphic books make me so happy. And this book is absolutely no exception. This book was a whirlwind of Folklore, magical creatures, betrayal, murder, magic, and romance all in one and I was just so utterly charmed. Lorelei and Sylvia are the perfect GrumpyxSunshine night and day pairing, and that slow burn? It was done just so wonderfully. I will definitely be picking up my own physical copy. Thank you again Daphne Press!

Thank you to NetGalley and the published for the ARC of this book.

It did take me a while to get into this book but it's a solid four star read for me.

I loved the concept of it - sapphic fantasy romance and academic rivals? Sounds great. Allison Saft does a really good job creating a rich world with loads of folklore elements and Lorelei and Sylvia are great protaganists.

I thought their relationship and character development was done really well throughout the novel but some of the side characters fell a little flat at times. The pacing was a little wonky sometimes too. I think at times things dragged out a little bit too long. Overall though, they're minor gripes.

I'd definitely pick up books by Saft again and I look forward to rereading this one.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC they gave me in exchange for an honest review.

For a book with such whimsical prose, I think my favourite parts were in the dialogue. Lorelei (the MC) and Sylvia are academic rivals who try to outsmart and challenge each other. They are forced to work together in an expedition where folklore monsters and other dangers threaten them. The murder mystery, although intriguing enough, didn’t thrill me. What I enjoyed the most was the dynamic between Sylvia and Lorelei, because it was developed in a convincing and interesting way. Lorelei struggles a lot with her personal convictions and insecurities, but her relationship with Sylvia allows her to do some self-reflection. The romance in this book has some very poetic and compelling moments. It’s elegant enough. However, I feel that this book has some problems with the pacing, as I find some parts develop too slow and others too fast. Overall, the good parts of this book won me over, it was a pleasant experience and I would probably recommend it to other sapphic, enemies- to -lovers readers.

The story was quite intriguing - and I always love a murder mystery! I kept suspecting everyone, but I was not expecting the direction it took.

The characters were interesting and I enjoyed how they evolved during the story. And I liked that the ending was not rushed, everything was explained and it's wasn't solved in a second as it often happens in standalone fantasy books.

To be honest, I wasn't entirely sure I liked this book when I started it, but by 1/3 of it I was hooked and I found myself trying to read every time I had some free time.

There were a few things that felt a bit out of nowhere to me. For example, they always had tents and lots of furs for camping, plus one of the characters ended up having two tents? But how did they carry all of that stuff? Maybe I missed something.

Thank you to Netgalley and Daphne Press for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A Dark and Drowning Tide was a very surprising read for me. I am not the biggest fantasy reader, thus I was kinda scared of not liking it or being so lost in the world building that I wouldn't get to enjoy the story itself. But that is not at all how it went.

I will say that if English is not your first language and you don't know much about mythologies, folklores and fantasy worlds in general, you will need some type of dictionary or wikipedia to help you with the definitions of different creatures and places. However, once you've familiarised yourself with some of the creatures who of course will be constantly appearing through the book, you get to enter such a magical and gothic world. All the places atmosphere reminded me so much of medieval times, the way they dressed, the weapons they used etc. which is of course the point as this is labeled as gothic literature. I think I would have liked to see more of the type of magic that Lorelei controlled, I feel like we got much more gothic like world building and folklore creatures than we had fantasy and magic as such. But of course, that is just personal taste.

There is also mystery in the story, as very soon in the book we find out that someone (Ziegler, the leader/mentor) was killed, and the murdered can only be one of those present in the ship they were travelling by, so a sense of fear and danger is present through a big part of the story. I have to say that, as always, I did not solve the crime and was doubting the most innocent person of them all (it made perfect sense in my mind, you actually have a lot of clues of who it really is, I'm just oblivious). So, I was quite surprised about the resolution and not only that, but everything that happens AFTER that.

This leads me to my next point: characters. We have a very unreliable (in my pov) narrator, Lorelei, who ends up being the decision maker of the group, after the death of her mentor, one of the people who had helped her grow and become the person she is now. And dear God, of course she was her mentor because it is so clear how Lorelei learnt absolutely everything from Ziegler and how much trust she had in her. Not going to develop on that subject, you'll have to discover it by yourselves.

We get to know Lorelei and hoooow much she hates a group of friends, but certainly one person more than the others: Sylvia Von Wolff. They have been rivals from very little, thing Lorelei only faintly mentions, although I would have appreciated some kind of flashback or more details about it. We are told that Sylvia is so liked and loved by everyone, she is the perfect popular and smart girl at school and out of it, while Lorelei is one of the most hated people. This is because the place where they live is separated by different somehow independent regions, and her region and culture had been heavily criticised and stereotyped by the others, creating a common hate and fear towards all people coming from there. This huge contrast between the girls, and the fact that they had to compete for the same position inside the team, made the very perfect combination for hatred in Lorelei's logic. Of course do not let this deceive you, she WILL talk about the beauty of Sylvia from the very first page, even if she is getting of every nerve of hers. Very sapphic coded, not complaining at all.

While Lorelei is all pessimism and hatred, Sylvia is quite the opposite. She is portrayed as a very extroverted person, who likes to be in the center of attention all the time and likes being looked at. However, as I said, this is how Lorelei sees her as in the beginning; as they get to know each other and Lorelei opens her heart and mind, her opinion and perception of her changes almost completely. I liked Sylvia as a character, I feel like many times she is misunderstood by not only Lorelei but also the other characters, and I would have loved to have a dual pov in order to be inside her mind and hear her thoughts and logic overall.

Talking about the rest of the characters could get spoilery, so I will only comment on the fact that I think I needed a bit more information about everyone to attach or relate to them in some way. Sometimes they feel like they are there to fulfill a role, be attached to a specific storyline from the past and act some kind of way towards Lorelei (so she keeps having a reason to hate them) and that's it. I do not need sophisticated backstories, but a little bit more than we had would have been perfect.

Overall, I enjoyed this book so much after coming to terms with my irrational fear of fantasy books. The folklore is absolutely beautiful and getting to discover new creatures was such an interesting part of this reading. Give yourself time to read about each of them and understand not only how they would look but also how they would act and what they provide to the story and world building. At the end, I did not want this book to end and I feel like that is such an important thing when reading. Completely recommend this to everyone who enjoys fantasy, folklore and sapphic enemies to lovers.

Now if you excuse me, I need to preorder a physical version of this ARC so I can mark and highligh it all.

Sapphic academic rivalry with atmospheric and lush settings

While on an expedition in search of a spring which is fabled to have mystical properties, longtime rivals, Lorelei and Sylvia, must begrudgingly work together when their expeditions leader is murdered in order to find the infamous spring but also avoid becoming victims of the murderer.

Im in love with the relationship between Lorelei and Sylvia, yearning and bubbling tension. Their development was lovely to read. Beautiful writing.