In A Dark and Drowning Tide, Allison Saft brings readers into a magical world filled with danger, mystery, and romance. The story follows Lorelei Kaske, a young folklorist eager to prove herself on a major expedition. Many adventures happens on the journey which is discussed further. If you are a fan of Fantasy you can checkout our The Malazan of the Fallen series.
About the Author:
Allison Saft is the NY Times bestselling novelist. Her some of the popular books are A Far Wilder Magic and Down Comes the Night etc. She has done her masters in English Literature and she lives in West Coast.
A Dark and Drowning Tide Summary
The story begins whe Lorelei and her group, commissioned by the king, are searching for a legendary spring believed to hold powerful magic. The king hopes that this magic will help strengthen his control in their war-torn country. However, soon after they started sailing, Lorelei’s mentor is murdered, leaving the group terrified in shock.
With the ship at sea, it becomes clear that the killer is among them. Suspicion comes on Sylvia von Wolff, (Lorelei’s academic rival), who co incidentally be present in the wrong places at the wrong times. Though Lorelei doubts Sylvia’s guilt, tensions rise as everyone becomes a suspect.
Lorelei took up the responsibilities to lead the expedition, navigating not only the dangerous external world but also the growing mistrust within the group. Their journey is full of peril, from harsh terrains to magical animals, testing their survival skills and ability to work together. Trust is fragile and rare, as the threat of another murder looms over them.
Amid the chaos, Lorelei and Sylvia’s relationship begins to change. Initially rivals, their interactions become more complex as they start to see one another differently. A factor of spiciness is introduced here. A slow-burn romance develops, adding an emotional layer to the tension-filled journey. Their growing bond becomes a key part of the story, though it never overshadows the larger mystery and adventure.
The world Saft creates is rich in folklore and magic, with stunning landscapes and a sense of real danger. The expedition group is filled with diff. people, leading to no.s of conflict and drama. Every step of the journey presents new challenges, both physical and emotional.
All in all, the novel offers adventure, mystery and magic. The romance is tender and slow-building, while the tension of the murder plot adds suspense. Saft’s ability to blend character development with action makes this book an immersive and thrilling read, perfect for fans of fantasy who enjoy complex relationships and high-stakes drama.
Also Read: The Year of the Locust Book Review
A Dark and Drowning Tide Character List:
- Lorelei Kaske: A folklorist leading an expedition.
- Sylvia von Wolff: Lorelei’s academic rival, sharp, sarcastic and mysterious.
- Lorelei’s Mentor: A guiding figure in Lorelei’s life, whose murder sets the mystery.
- The Expedition Group: A varied mix of personalities with their own motives and secrets.
A Dark and Drowning Tide Review by Allison Saft
The Dark and Drowning Tide by Allison Saft is an interesting blend of fantasy, mystery, and romance. The story has protagonist Lorelei Kaske, a folklorist on an expedition to find a legendary spring of powerful magic.
Saft’s world-creation shines through with a richly and detailed imagined landscape, filled with magical creatures and perilous terrain. The dynamic between Lorelei and her rival, Sylvia von Wolff, adds a layer to the story, evolving into a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance that feels natural and well-paced.
At its centre of concept, A Dark and Drowning Tide is a story about survival, trust, and the delicate balance of power. Lorelei’s leadership is tested as the group’s dynamics shift. With a balance of character development, action, and emotional depth, A Dark and Drowning Tide delivers a captivating fantasy with high stakes and a touch of romance. Saft’s accessible writing and immersive storytelling make this a must-read for fans of adventure and magic.
Quotes from A Dark and Drowning Tide
“You can’t choose who you love, only how you handle it.”
“Every step on this journey is a step towards understanding, both of the world and of ourselves.”
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