5/5

A Dark and Drowning Tide is an elegantly fashioned fantasy novel that delves deep into the heart of folktales and their origin, as two women in academia fight for their place in the world and what they mean to one another. This her adult debut, Allison Saft serves up a fantasy adventure with a slice of academic rivalry that is both endearing and ardently romantic. As if ensorcelled by a faerie spell, Saft draws you in and hits the mark with her mesmerizing prose and snippy back and forth between heated rivals. Lorelei and Sylvia were idiots to lovers first and academic rivals second and I love them all the more for it. Wonderfully layered like what lies beneath some hidden well of power, Saft’s true talent lies in her capacity to depict intense yearning, the flaws in believing you know your enemy, and the traumas endured but ultimately survived. A Dark and Drowning Tide will undoubtedly resonate with many, leaving behind a kernel of hope that will kindle and then spark into an inferno.

Full review to come at a later date!

Deeply riveting and mystifying. It's been a long time since a fantasy book has completely engulfed me and swept me away on a powerful current, much like the enigmatic waters of the black river Saft introduces in the first chapter of the book.

Outstanding plot - a very mystical and mysterious whodunnit. Exceptional, larger than life characters. The main couple were a glorious grump vs sunshine trope, and in my opinion, a wonderful new age twist on Hades and Persephone.

Very much loved this read. Thank you Ballantine and Netgalley for the ARC.

Wow, I thoroughly enjoyed this story!! The vibes were just immaculate and the writing was was so atmospheric! I initially requested this book because of the gorgeous cover but ended up loving the story just as much. I loved the characters in this as well. I do wish that this story was less murder mystery and more court politics though. I also hope there will be a sequel!! Perhaps about Lud or Heike!

A beautiful, deep, dark, gothic fantasy that left me completely mesmerized.I thoroughly enjoyed the characters, the world building the immersive settings, and the sapphic romance. I recommend it to people looking for a strong romance that takes place in a larger fantasy world.