Thank you to net galley and random house publishing for this ARC!!

Dark academia sapphic rivalry with Jewish rep. All in all it didn’t stand out. Enjoyed it but will I be singing its praises for years to come, unlikely.

The cover looks amazing, and why I wanted to read this book. But when I started reading I just could not get into it, so I dnf the book. I hope to read some more books from this author in the future.

I could NOT put this book down! I loved it so much! This was my first book by this author and safe to say I will be reading more of the works.

It was almost poetic in its writing style, really painting the picture of the moment. And the moments are quick to change, that's for sure.

I can not stress enough to read this book!

I thought this was a really atmospheric book, however I really struggled with the characters. The rivalry between them seemed frivolous and unwarranted. I felt like the main character is literally just finding anything and everything to hate the second main character and I did not enjoy that. I also really didn’t care much for the plot, as I was mostly bored by it. This simply wasn’t the book for me.

This was a great read!!! Cannot say enough!!!

The characters and the writing were spot on!! First time reading this author but won't be last!

Would recommend this!!!

Thanks NetGalley for letting me read and review

Darkly beautiful and so richly alive with folklore that the pages almost seem to breathe. This is a murder mystery, a political fantasy, and an epic quest all swirled up together and set against a backdrop of quaint yet sinister towns, forests that move around at night, and remote, glittering icy locales.

The slow-burn sapphic academic rivals to lovers arc is just to die for. Lorelei was a very tenderly realized prickly character, and her growth happens in ways that feel so organic and believable. I was obsessed with her, and with the ethereal, idealistic Sylvia; I actually really wish we had gotten Sylvia's POV as well, particularly for a handful of specific scenes. I really feel like if that had been integrated it would have elevated this from a four to a five star book for me personally. I'm a huge sucker for some yearning, some angst, some unrequited love, and I just KNOW Sylvia was yearning up a storm while we were glued to the POV of the clueless character who keeps her emotions super locked down.

I'm left with a hint of wanting more at the end of the story, particularly from the geopolitics of this world - I finished the book thinking, "surely we can't leave things here???" If Saft ever decided to write a sequel, I think that this story is primed for one; but I also recognize that that isn't really her style. This isn't a book where every wrong will be righted, every bad person punished, every social injustice neatly eliminated by the end of the novel. It's a story about people surviving and finding a way to be happy the best they can in a hostile, imperfect world.

sapphic academic rivals?? its a yes from me. if you've been looking for a dark academic novel with romance and fantasy, this is the one to read right away.

Thank you to net galley and random house publishing for this ARC!!

This sapphic/Jewish MC/Gothic/Dark Academia fantasy book has academic rivals turned lovers, dragons, a murder mystery, and a sentient forest. There’s a lot going on, but somehow it all works.

Lorelei is a folklorist with a quick temper, and Sylvia is her academic rival who set off on an expedition with 6 others to find a magical spring with untold powers. When someone gets murdered, the clock starts ticking. They must work together to find the spring and solve the murder all while avoiding being killed by the dangerous beasts in this world.

I’m NOT someone who usually reads or enjoys romantic fantasy, but lately I’ve been giving the genre a try. This one had me at ‘gothic/lesbian/Jewish main character’ and I’m so glad I gave it a chance!

I give this book 4/5 stars- the cover is drop dead gorgeous, the writing is atmospheric, the romance is written with so much tension and isn’t overdone, and the world building is fantastic. I connected with the character of Lorelei immediately, due to her struggle with the trauma in her life, and the prejudices she’s faced. I feel like we didn’t get enough background on Sylvia until much later in the book. Sometimes she felt more like a secondary character, and I was so curious about her!!

Either way, I’m going to check out more Allison Saft! This is the first of their books that I’ve read so I’m excited to read more!

Thanks for NetGalley and Del Rey & Random House for the eARC! A DARK AND DROWNING TIDE comes out on September 17, 2024

Is this a classic case of “it’s not you, it’s me?” Quite possibly. I’ve had my eye on this book for a while. The cover, absolutely beautiful. The book description, heck yes. Allison Saft leading the charge, let’s do this. I read A Far Wilder Magic by Saft (YA) and enjoyed it, so I was eager to read her adult debut.

While the writing was solid, I found myself struggling to connect with any of the characters, which caused some difficulty with becoming invested in the story as a whole. The premise is intriguing and the folkloric elements were interesting, but something felt disjointed to me. Maybe too much at once? I never fully grasped the magic system, or the world itself, amidst the politics, the treasure hunting style expedition, the murder mystery unfolding, the mythical creatures wreaking havoc, the complicated dynamics and history of the core “friend” group, and the intended romance between Sylvia and Lorelei. I hoped to feel all the things in this but was left wanting.

While this book didn’t quite do it for me, I’ve got a few more Saft books on my TBR and am eager to read them. On to the next one!

** Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for this eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. **

Was SO excited for dark academia fantasy but just could not get into it. beautiful writing but felt like it dragged and found it hard to connect with/root for the characters.

What can I say about this book, it was so good. The atmosphere, the characters, the angst, the quest. Allison Saft is a master and I am a huge fan of all of her works. I love a prickly main character and Lorelei really brought that. 5 stars!!

Review posted on goodreads

I love a good fantasy murder mystery. Especially after Crescent City 1. It’s hard to find adult LGBTQ+ fantasy books so I think this one fits a needed niche.
I was a little confused if this was high fantasy (in another world) or low fantasy (in Germany?). I wish the vocab was a bit simpler. I found myself looking up words more than I care to and I’m a doctoral student so I get enough of that with school. That said, I liked this book alright. I really liked Sylvia. She perfectly balanced the less likable Lorelei.

Prepare to be immersed in the enchanting depths of "A Dark and Drowning Tide," where Allison Saft orchestrates a mesmerizing tale of mystery, magic, and self-discovery. This sapphic dark academic rivals-to-lovers romance, adorned with German folklore, unfolds as a slow burn ignited by remarkable banter, ensnaring readers right from the opening notes.

Saft masterfully crafts a plot-driven narrative, weaving elements of magic, mystery, and a spellbinding quest that keeps you teetering on the precipice of anticipation. The prose isn't just delicious; it's a lyrical symphony, painting vivid tapestries of landscapes and characters imbued with profound depth. The magic system's uniqueness and the atmospheric setting contribute to the lush canvas of the story.

At the story's core are Lorelei and Sylvia, whose love story blossoms amidst a tapestry of faeries, unexpected twists, and a mystical murder mystery. Sylvia, an embodiment of passion and kindness, acts as the perfect counterbalance to the grumpy and emotionally intricate Lorelei. Their dynamic journey evokes a whirlwind of emotions, creating a profound connection between the reader and their enthralling tale.

Saft's exploration of societal reform and the burden of survivor's guilt adds layers of complexity to the characters, particularly Lorelei. As the narrative unfolds, themes of self-discovery and emotional growth seamlessly intertwine with the central mystery. The beautifully perfect ending delivers a satisfying resolution that will undoubtedly leave a cascade of emotions in its wake.

This book showcases Saft's storytelling prowess. The nuanced characters, vibrant landscapes, and suspense-laden plot coalesce into a reading experience that is both atmospheric and character-driven. Saft ingeniously melds fantasy, mystery, and romance, providing readers with a narrative that is not just gripping but also deeply immersive.

In the realm of Brunnestaad, where forests shift ominously and rivers conceal dragons in their depths, Saft beckons readers on an enthralling expedition through treacherous beauty. The pursuit of truth becomes a harmonious dance with the characters' self-discovery, rendering this novel essential for those yearning for narratives that resonate on emotional frequencies.

Overall, "A Dark and Drowning Tide" is not merely a book; it's a symphony that transports readers to a realm where magic, suspense, and moral dilemmas converge. Allison Saft's bewitching novel leaves an indelible mark, and aficionados will eagerly await her future compositions, craving more of her enthralling storytelling.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/ Ballentine/ Del rey for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest opinions.

This book was so beautifully written. I loved the unique sapphic, fantasy, and murder mystery themes all tied in together. The fantasy themes were in depth but not overwhelming. I really enjoyed this read and loved getting the perceptive of the brooding, angry love interest instead of the soft one! Typically, you get a broody MMC and the POV of the FMC, but this gave us a brooding FMC and her whimsy love interest. Love, love, loved that.


**SPOILERS BELOW**

I did feel that the reveal for the murder mystery portion of the storyline was a little anti-climactic and was hoping for something more shocking. I was also a little confused concerning the start of the romance. Lorelei's internal dialogue didn't really indicate any interest in Sylvia at the start (but does slowly work in small comments as the book goes on) but then later makes it seem like she's always wanted Sylvia. Loved their dynamic but had some trouble believing Lorelei always felt that way.

An amazing dark beautiful gothic novel. I had classical music playing as I read this. Might pick up the audiobook to relive the magic!

I would love to thank Allison Saft, NetGallery, and the publisher for allowing me to have this e-ARC. The cover is stunning and that’s what drew me towards the book, the environment of the story seemed to be everything I enjoy- academic rivals, enemies to lovers, fantasy. With that being said, I did not enjoy this book as much as I thought I would. The world building felt off, and somewhat rushed to me, I felt like things were being thrown at me and I couldn’t catch up. The romance felt messy through the book, they seemed to hate each other and very suddenly the hate is gone. While I did not enjoy as much as I hoped I would, I do plan to read more of Saft’s books: this is the first book i’ve read by her and i’m excited to give her other stories a try.

4.25/ 5 Stars

What is necessary to keep peace in a newly formed republic? This book begs us to answer as we watch seven characters set out on a voyage for a magical spring. Almost immediately, the plot thickens, and we have a mystery with an a mystery solve.

What will we do for peace? for love?

This book is filled with magic. The interweaving of folklore throughout was beautifully done. The author sucks you into a new fantastical world and has you pinning for our enemies to realize they actually very much love each orher.

If you love books with dark academic vibes, political intrigue, fantastical elements, folklore, mythical creatures, and a slow burn, that is just *chefs kiss* this is definitely the book for you. I enjoyed every second of this. I absolutely recommend you order now so you can devour it! Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

NO I will not shut up about this book. Read in less than a day, left no crumbs. I love when women ___.

Sapphic hate/yearning/murder mystery/fantasy (scratched the Gideon the Ninth itch, you're welcome girlies)

before i start this review, full disclaimer: i've never read a book by saft before. and what a shame that is. i will definitely need to check out more of her works because omg?? this book was everything to me. a lush, beautiful writing with mysterious setting and complex morally grey characters - my kryptonite.

this book truly did justice to sapphic enemies to lovers imo. i wasn't expecting to get so entrenched into the world like i did, and to be this invested in each of the mcs and their lives. i am so in awe right now. i honestly didn't like lorelei for most of the book but i believe that was the point. and sylvia... sigh. what can i even say about her. she's so badass and smart and quick i wanna be her and be with her at the same time.

all in all, a wonderful, lyrical composition that i would recommend to anyone who loves pretty sapphic fantasy romances. this was gorgeous.

I wasn't aware of how many folktales I'm familiar with, purely based on how many folktales inspired books I've been reading, until this book. Considering how long ago this book must have been written, in light of current events, it couldn't be more timely. It's fantasy, yes, but like all good fantasy, coded and with very real roots in the serious problems that threaten a peaceful society. So it starts with some political intrigue and leads us into murder, war trauma, colonization, a bid for power, curses, all the things you'd expect in a quest.

It got muddled in a few points and some plotting went off course but it's a fairly strong novel with a lot to say, even couched in childrens stories.