*I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Title: Tideborn
Author: Eliza Chan
Publisher: Orbit
Publication Date: March 25, 2025
ISBN: 9780316564946
Synopsis:
A tsunami and a dragon’s wish have wrought changes upon the city of Tiankawi that have never been seen before. But shared experiences have not healed the rift between the city’s fathomfolk and human citizens, and scars from years of oppression still remain. Mira, a half-siren and activist, fights politicians and her own people to rebuild her city, and to uncover a deadly conspiracy. And Nami, the dragon princess, undertakes a daring ocean voyage alongside friend and foe, in order to convince a mythical Titan not to destroy Tiankawi for its crimes…
———-
Building on the intensity of the political strife that built in Fathomfolk, Tideborn’s plot rises to a climax of clashes between races and political groups as they fight as individuals, not for the betterment of Tiankawi, but for the gain of one group over another.
In the wake of Kai’s sacrifice, giving the ultimate gift of his pearl to save the citizens of Tiankawi—human and fathomfolk alike—the city stands more divided than ever leaving Mira wondering if his sacrifice was a waste. As she heals from his loss, she learns to find her voice amid the opposition that faces her from every side. In parallel, Nami—Kai’s sister—steps up to lead an expedition to find a sandgod across the ocean, hoping to save Tiankawi from another disaster that threatens to destroy the city.
This series continues to be heavy on the politics, which isn’t normally my jam, but Chan builds a beautiful and mysterious sea world, rife with racism, oppression, and conflict. Her writing is absolutely gripping as she transforms characters who are perceived as underdogs into champions who find their voices against all odds. Their journeys are non-linear and are harrowing more often than not. There are many points in the story where it’s impossible to see how resolution can ever be achieved.
Yet, Chan leads the reader through the treacherous political landscapes, the anger, prejudice, and hatred on all sides, and builds a hopefully picture of transformation that is possible even in the darkest of situations.
The Drowned World duology tells a story of hope, tenacity, and healing. The reader leaves feeling hopeful, seeing new birth and optimism rise in through forgiveness, empathy, and personal growth. Though the characters struggle to understand themselves and others who inhabit Tiankawi alongside them, they are able to set aside differences, to understand strengths, and to empower even those who seem unlikely to succeed.
It’s an exciting and breathtaking series and it’s been an absolute pleasure to read. It’s an accessible fantasy story for readers who enjoy the fantasy genre as a whole, or those who are new to the series. There is so much to be gained in these pages, I hope you’ll enjoy them as much as I did.
Happy reading!
Worn Pages and Ink 