A Puerto Rican blacksmith trying to start over in New York lands a job building a huge water tank and gets swept up in a company of sideshow performers and their lives. The sideshow's frontman pays our protagonist, Benny, to help him catch a mermaid (or, as it turns out, merman).

This was a joy to read. Written in a way that makes it very easy to just devour this whole book as fast as possible. I especially enjoyed the lyrical writing in the merman's chapters and found myself wishing they were longer. I do think the author found a great balance in all of the characters and their relationships to each other.

This book feels nostalgic in a way, similar to a fairy tale.

I'm not a big fan of books where romance is the main focus, so I did like that there was a rather big focus on some side characters as well.
One thing that bothered me was that to me, it felt unrealistic how quickly Benny and the merman take a liking to each other. In any other context it would've made sense, but with Benny quite literally having a hand in capturing him it makes very little sense to me that he would forgive that so easily.
The ending felt slightly rushed, but not in a way that left me unsatisfied with it. Overall, I had fun reading this, but it felt somewhat shallow at times, too convenient.

When the Tides Held the Moon by Venessa Vida Kelley is a breathtaking historical fantasy that shimmers with heartache, wonder, and defiance. Set in the dazzling yet gritty world of 1910s New York City, this story weaves myth and history into a stunning love story that dares to ask what it means to be free in a world full of cages—both visible and invisible. Kelley’s writing doesn’t just tell a story—it submerges you in it, like waves pulling you under in the most beautiful way.

Benny Caldera is a protagonist you won’t soon forget. Orphaned, queer, and Boricua, he carries a quiet resilience that makes you ache for his dreams and cheer for his every act of courage. His work as a blacksmith—a craft both brutal and beautiful—is a powerful metaphor for his character. He shapes unyielding metal into something wondrous, much like he tries to carve a life for himself in a world that dismisses him at every turn. Benny’s artistic soul shines in the way he sees beauty where others only see survival.

Río, the captured merman at the center of the narrative, is mesmerizing. Kelley sidesteps the easy tropes of mythical creatures and creates a character who is more than a symbol or spectacle. Río is wise and enigmatic, but also deeply vulnerable—a being caught between fascination and tragedy. The love that blossoms between Benny and Río is quiet yet intense, filled with stolen moments and unspeakable longings. Their relationship isn’t just romantic—it’s a lifeline, a mutual recognition of what it means to be othered and imprisoned in different ways.

The setting of Coney Island’s Luna Park, with its glimmering lights and dark underbelly, is vividly rendered. Kelley captures the spectacle of turn-of-the-century freak shows and amusement parks without glamorizing the exploitation at their core. The side-show crew, with their eccentricities and quiet sorrows, feel like more than caricatures—they’re fully realized people who have built a found family in a world that shuns them. But the moral tension is palpable: how can they claim to understand the pain of being seen as "other" while holding a sentient being captive?

The novel’s themes—freedom, art, and identity—are woven with remarkable subtlety. Benny’s journey isn’t just about freeing Río; it’s about freeing himself from the chains of shame, invisibility, and self-doubt. The question of what is "right" is layered and complex. Kelley doesn’t offer simple answers because there aren’t any. But the love Benny and Río share isn’t just romantic—it’s a challenge to a world that treats wonder and difference as things to be exploited or feared.

Kelley’s prose is lyrical without being overwrought. Her descriptions of ironwork, moonlit waves, and the hum of the city are rich with sensory detail. You can almost feel the heat of Benny’s forge, hear the roar of the crowd at Luna Park, and taste the salt on Río’s skin. The emotional stakes build with exquisite tension, leading to a conclusion that is as heartbreaking as it is hopeful.

If there’s any minor critique, it’s that some of the side characters—while interesting—don’t always get as much exploration as they deserve. The dynamics within the sideshow crew could have been fleshed out a bit more, especially when their choices impact the central conflict. But this is a small quibble in an otherwise exceptional novel.

At 4.75 stars, When the Tides Held the Moon is a masterwork of historical fantasy, filled with profound questions, unforgettable characters, and a love story that will break your heart and put it back together again. Kelley’s novel is a celebration of those who dare to be themselves in a world determined to cage them—and a reminder that true freedom is not just about escape, but about the courage to hold on to who you are. This is a story that lingers like moonlight on water, reflecting something beautiful, tragic, and true.

(Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corp. for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.)

Okay, I’ll admit it. I originally requested this book because of the cover. I don’t think I even read the description. It’s just so gorgeous.🧜🏻‍♂️🌊

I was so happy to find out that the actual content lived up to the hype of the cover. This was a sweet, queer, “monster” romance. Kelley’s portrayal of 1910’s NYC was awesome, and I loved the Puerto Rican representation. Benny was a joy of a protagonist, who wears his huge heart on his sleeve.

For fans of circuses, “The Shape of Water”, and soft love interests.

I’m super excited for this release and plan to purchase a physical copy for my at-home library!

An Emotional Masterpiece!!

⭐️4.75/5 stars ⭐️

I am in AWE of this author. I have always been a fan of their artwork, and I have to say, they did NOT disappoint with their debut book. I can’t wait to buy the hardcover (already preordered) and see what art they included!!

As for the story itself, I could not step away. I was invested through the very end. Benny and Río were a beautiful couple and I loved seeing their relationship grow. I also enjoyed the side couples, too! I won’t spoil it, but I’m hoping for some side stories to come later!!

Kelley’s handling of the struggles in 1911 of immigrants, the LGTBQ+ community, and the lower class was absolutely astonishing. It didn’t come across as “overdone” or “fake”. They wrote it with feeling and I could really empathize with the characters and their situations.

Without spoilers, my biggest gripe with the story (albeit a small thing) is that I wished the mythology was a little more flushed out. I felt that, in a way, the ending was a tad rushed, and a few events could’ve been explained more.

Overall, I can NOT WAIT for my physical copy, as I will be rereading this again and again!

Magic is more real than ever on Vanessa V Kelley's debut novel. She brings her own Hispanic heritage to life on the page, making Benny feel like a lifelong friend. She clearly did her research, the life of a young man in 1910's NY was very believable. When the mystical Río is introduced, it doesn't feel campy or corny--his existence just makes sense. Their friendship develops naturally, their love grows realistically, and the story feels so real that I literally gasped aloud at one point. I can't wait to purchase this when it's published.

this was my first book of the year and it was absolutely phenomenal. it took me a moment to get going with this book but i am so glad i didnt dnf it prematurely. i am obsessed with it, have recommended it to at least 5 people already who are all dying to buy it when it comes out in april.

4 stars!

This was a really great blend of romance, historical, and fantasy and it was so heartwarming I spent half the book smiling!

I've been following the author for ages for their art so when I heard they were writing a book and it was going to be a mermaid romance I was so ready for it. What I didn't expect was the depth of historical research that clearly went into this and I thought the setting was very well done. Admittedly, my favorite parts were the domestic found family type moments between the members of the menagerie. There's just something about a group of lovable misfits that gets me. The romance was also very sweet and the scenes between Rio and Benny of them just bonding were super well done. I think the plot felt a little rougher towards the climax of the book and there were definitely some parts that dragged a bit but as a whole I really enjoyed it.

This is a great start for Venessa Vida Kelley! Can't wait to see what her next project looking like.

Thank you to Venessa Vida Kelley and Erewhon Books for this ARC in exchange for my full, honest review!

Happy reading!

This book deserves so much more hype!

If you have heard the soundtrack for The Warriors by Lin Manuel this book very much gives " A light or something" and I adored every second of it. The story is unique and engaging, kept me glued to the page and I fell in love with the characters. There are no tricks or gimmicks here, just beautiful writing and a wonderful story. Could not believe this was a debut author, Venessa did their thing!!

Thank you Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I, unfortunately, did not love this. The concept seemed so cool and the cover was stellar. In fact, the reason this book gets two stars instead of one is because the art within is gorgeous. I was always excited to come across a new picture.

And while the setting and worldbuilding was intriguing, the writing itself was...strange. I had a very difficult time following the dialogue and writing. It did not feel well edited or particularly clear. Because of this ongoing challenge, I struggled to connect to any character. Reading the words felt like too much of a chore.

Clearly I'm in the minority and many other readers love this. I'm sure if the writing works for you, you will be able to be swept away in this book.

VENESSA VIDA KELLEY’s When the Tides Held the Moon has been one of my most anticipated novel releases for literal years, and finally having its words and story run through my head is truly otherworldly. This story follows BENIGNO “Benny” Caldera, a BORICUA blacksmith who immigrated to 1910s New York City, as he creates and builds a superior tank that unbeknownst to him and many others will confine a live merman to exhibit as a sideshow attraction at Coney Island’s Luna Park. With the park gearing up and readying for its seasonal opening, Benny develops bonds with the people of Morgan’s Menagerie of Oddities while his attachment with the merman Río grows closer and closer to the heart.

Capitalization is needed to write this book review because THIS BOOK MATTERS. I spent nearly half my time reading this book crying my eyes out because it is SO INCREDIBLE to see a QUEER, PUERTO RICAN IMMIGRANT be the MAIN PROTAGONIST in a story. Yo soy puertorriqueña, and to see Benny represent me, my grandparents, my ancestors, represent a staple in the history of my (our) people, it is truly momentous. The blend of English and Spanish throughout the entirety of the novel will be hard to read for some but it is realistic, and it is TRUE! This is the voice of a blue-collar, Puerto Rican immigrant making his way as the first wave of NUYORICANS that will make a stake for themselves in New York. SPANISH is a language that is so beautiful and sometimes has words, phrases, and ideas that cannot be done equal justice translated into the English language. THIS IS WHAT IS TRUE. THIS IS WHAT IS REAL. The glossary at the back of the novel with all the translated phrases in any non-English language throughout the book will be your guide. It isn’t just Spanish; there’s Russian, Irish, Hindi/Punjabi, Italian, German, etc. There is a wide array of characters that have origins all over and you’ll love them.! They may not be like you but they’re humans with origins, feelings, and little quips that are admirable and lovely as they are.

The novel took me some time to get through but once the flow was founded and a reader finds themselves in the mix of the characters and discover who they are and WHERE THEY COME FROM, it’s a beautiful story that is intricately woven together to bring connections. This novel is rich with important history to Coney Island and New York, along with Puerto Rico and the period of the early 1900s. Some scenes and characters in the book are blessed with the artistic work of Venessa Vida Kelley and they are glorious to see. Seeing the character and scene designs detailed enhances the reading experience in such a marvelous way. I wish to take some of them and expand them to mega-size to hang on my walls. They are truly breathtaking and another reason this book is so special!

This book is so special to me and I can’t believe it’s here! THIS BOOK IS IMPORTANT and I cannot express in more words how incredible it is to have another book with great PR representation out in the world!

Thank you very much to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the eARC of Venessa Vida Kelley's When the Tides Held the Moon. This review is my candid honest opinion.

I loved this book so much. It was the very last book I read of 2024 and oh man, what a way to round out the year! I'll start by saying this book has one of my favourite supporting casts I have seen in a while. Everyone felt so dynamic and complex, and they were so very easy to fall in love with. Their dynamics and their banter are amazing.

I loved the main character and the love interests relationship, especially how it builds up through-out the book. It was genuinely so so wholesome and I could not put this book down, the prose was so beautiful. My only problem was that I didn't realise there was a glossary of Spanish words at the back so I was guessing the whole way through, but that's entirely on me lol.

I ADORED this book. I don't know if I will say anything other reviewers haven't yet, but I'll summarize my thoughts.

Writing:
Going in, I wasn't expecting the writing to be amazing. This is not a reflection of the author or anything, it's just that when I read fantasy or romance and the like I don't need amazing writing to enjoy the book. It's just not a priority for me. However, I really enjoyed the style of this book. It really surprised me that Kelley is a debut author. The pacing was excellent, dialogue natural, figurative language used effectively, and characters and places described vividly. Even the action at the end was done well. My absolute favorite thing though was the characterization in the writing. Benny and Rio had such distinct voices in their chapters in a way that really added to their characters.

Plot:
I could not put this book down! The pacing was so good, and Kelley did a great job of balancing excitement, humor, romance, action, etc. I thought the book was the perfect length and not one scene felt unnecessary. The romance was built perfectly and did not feel rushed.

Characters:
Found family is one of my absolute favorite things ever and this book did not disappoint. I adored the troupe and every single character (not counting morgan. all my homies hate moran,). I honestly would read a book from every performer's perspective especially Eli. I need an Eli book, PLEASE.
Speaking of Eli, this book did such a good job of handling the more sensitive themes. Racism, gender identity, and internalized homophobia were handled with such care and remarkably didn't feel like a stretch for the time period. The scene with Emmet near the end made me tear up a little.
The main characters, Benny and Rio were amazing. I loved both of them and I just wanted to give Benny such a big hug.

Conclusion:
100% recommend. Kelley DELIVERED with this book. If you love found family, queer romance, historical fiction, fantasy this is your next read. I cannot wait for this book to blow up when it gets published and for Kelley to get all the love they deserve.

PS. THE ART BLEW ME AWAY. How is it fair for one person to be that talented. I only realized that the author was also the artist when I finished the book. Despite it literally being 2 am, I looked up their website and was shocked to see I already know some of the art. And if you have read any popular queer romance (Carry on, RWARB, hearstopper) you might have too. Definitely check out their website and etsy!!!

Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this eARC; I’m a massive fan of Venessa’s work and am delighted to share my honest review.

I fell in love with an earlier iteration of this story, saved and stared lovingly at earlier images; and I was curious to see how Venessa had taken this tale and moulded it into something new, and I was blown away with how they managed to take a beloved story and turn it into to something genuinely unique, whilst maintaining the familiar comfort of its ancestor.

When the Tides Held the Moon is lyrically and visually beautiful. The characters are diverse, well-crafted, three dimensional. They hold their own as unique, loveable people that I would love to meet and know in real life. Except Sam, he can go fuck himself. Actually, Sam can stay, because if it wasn’t for him, Benny and Rio wouldn’t have met.

I love Benny and Rio’s individual and relationship arcs, love the way that Rio comes out of his shell and lets the layers of his personality, his life and his secrets unfold under Benny’s gentle presence. Love the way that Benny learns to breathe again, and learns to live his truth, with Rio by his side.

I stayed up til just after midnight, burning through the last 20% of this, not wanting it to end, but also needing to know that all would be okay in the end. Spoiler: it was so much more than okay in the end.

Hot tip - theres a glossary/translation list at the end of the book that I didn’t know was there. I just embraced the bits of language I didn’t understand in the spirit of an immigrant in a new place, who also doesn’t understand all of the nuance of local language and millieu, and rolled with vibes instead.

4.5*

gosh was this one absolutely amazing. i loved the romance, i loved the characters, all of them (well, mostly), and i loved the lyrical writing. the illustrations were nice too. 5 stars. tysm for the arc, netgalley and erewhon.

DNF at 20%

I was looking forward to read this book, firstly because the beautiful cover caught my attention and then when I read the synopsis of this queer mermaid story I couldn't wait to read it. But unfortunately it just wasn't for me, the characters felt two dimensional to me so I wasn't as invested in the story as I wish I was, and there was some unnecessary info dumping.

thank you to net galley for the arc

I think this book was good and I loved our two main characters. I think pacing was an issue in this novel though and I found myself bored around the 50 and 60% mark. Aside from that, it was a very refreshing and unique premise especially as a New Yorker.

This was so well done and just beautifully written! I thoroughly enjoyed all the diverse characters and personalities that were portrayed. I also thought the art was beautiful and it was fun to see the characters in action and not just in my imagination. Benny felt dynamic and real and multifaceted, which made following his journey even more interesting. I also enjoyed getting to learn some Spanish while I read!

This was an absolute delight. I found myself reading slowly to just take it in and make it last. The story reels you in so beautifully. I loved it.

ARC Review

I’ve been following Venessa since 2020 where I fell in love with her fanart and I feel so fortunate that I was able to receive an ARC of her debut novel!

This was just downright lovely. Such a beautifully written, intricate, and unique love story between Benny and RÍo. When the Tides Held the Moon is full of diverse characters, disability rep, LGBTQIA+ rep, and Puerto Rican culture.

I just absolutely loved this!

It's only the 3rd of January, and this is an ARC, but this may be my favorite book of 2025. Kelley does such a great job bringing 1910s New York to life from the perspective of a Puerto Rican immigrant, Benny. The hopes he held to restart his life only to forge his heart behind a wall by the heat and racism he experienced with his smithy job and existing in NY. It takes stealing a merman from the ocean with Sam Morgan and his Menagerie of Oddities for Benny to realize there's more to him than he's ever given himself credit. Rio, our precious merman, shows Benny he's worthy of love, not just from others, but from himself as well. This was so well written and each character fleshed out with their motivations, and they take you through the wringer of emotions. I loved this book so much, and I'm grateful for Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC. I will 100% be purchasing this when it's released.