Scan barcode
A review by mikkareads
Curious Tides by Pascale Lacelle
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
Set in a world where magical abilities are determined by moon phases and tidal alignments, the plot revolves around the mystical Aldryn College for Lunar Magics.
Emory, a student of House New Moon, returns to the school after she survived an ill-fated ritual in the Dovermere sea caves that claimed the lives of several classmates – including that of her best friend, Romie. Previously a mediocre healer, Emory now gains increasingly powerful abilities that might lead to a fatal loss of control… She seeks help from Romie's brother Baz, an Eclipse-born with equally volatile magic, to control her new abilities and uncover the truth behind the ritual.
The narrative deepens as supposedly drowned students start reappearing, only to die again under mysterious circumstances. Emory is drawn into a world of dark powers and hidden secrets.
My opinion:
The novel offers a unique blend of dark academia and fantasy; the lunar-based magic system is engaging and innovative, contributing to the narrative's unique appeal. Pascale Lacelle builds her world with a meticulous eye for detail and a sense for deliberate, yet effective pacing.
Emory's quest to unravel the truth and master her powers is fraught with danger. Secret societies, betrayal, and deception: The plot unfolds in twists and turns, adding layer after layer of intrigue and atmospheric suspense. Baz's skillfully executed character-arc, on the other hand, delves into questions of prejudice and privilege. The characters are well-developed, showing complex motivations, emotional depth, and personal growth throughout the story.
The writing is mesmerizing, richly detailed and immersive. Compelling imagery captures the secretive atmosphere of Aldryn College and the dark mysteries of its lore. All in all, «Curious Tides» was a very satisfying, original read. It requires patient, attentive reading to fully appreciate its depth and complexity, but in my eyes, it's worth the effort.
Emory, a student of House New Moon, returns to the school after she survived an ill-fated ritual in the Dovermere sea caves that claimed the lives of several classmates – including that of her best friend, Romie. Previously a mediocre healer, Emory now gains increasingly powerful abilities that might lead to a fatal loss of control… She seeks help from Romie's brother Baz, an Eclipse-born with equally volatile magic, to control her new abilities and uncover the truth behind the ritual.
The narrative deepens as supposedly drowned students start reappearing, only to die again under mysterious circumstances. Emory is drawn into a world of dark powers and hidden secrets.
My opinion:
The novel offers a unique blend of dark academia and fantasy; the lunar-based magic system is engaging and innovative, contributing to the narrative's unique appeal. Pascale Lacelle builds her world with a meticulous eye for detail and a sense for deliberate, yet effective pacing.
Emory's quest to unravel the truth and master her powers is fraught with danger. Secret societies, betrayal, and deception: The plot unfolds in twists and turns, adding layer after layer of intrigue and atmospheric suspense. Baz's skillfully executed character-arc, on the other hand, delves into questions of prejudice and privilege. The characters are well-developed, showing complex motivations, emotional depth, and personal growth throughout the story.
The writing is mesmerizing, richly detailed and immersive. Compelling imagery captures the secretive atmosphere of Aldryn College and the dark mysteries of its lore. All in all, «Curious Tides» was a very satisfying, original read. It requires patient, attentive reading to fully appreciate its depth and complexity, but in my eyes, it's worth the effort.