Fated Winds and Promising Seas by Rose Black

When a promise is made, a fate is woven.

Imprisoned for a crime he cannot remember committing, Lucky is more comfortable with the four walls of his cell than the world outside. That is until he's ripped free from his prison and swept out into the ocean. . . and rescued by The Dreamer.

But The Dreamer is no ordinary vessel, with its crew of outcasts and heretics who possess the ability to manipulate water. Lucky is taken under the protective wing of a sailor named Gabriel, but when he recognises Gabriel from his past, Lucky suspects it may not be a simple accident that threw them together.

To understand their connection and prove Lucky's innocence, they must navigate treacherous waters, avoid giant Leviathan, and outwit those seeking to arrest them. But some memories hide secrets that could destroy all that they love. And with the tides of fortune ever-changing, the quest for freedom is just the beginning.

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In Fated Winds and Promising Seas, Rose Black crafts a mesmerizing tale of adventure, mystery, and the unbreakable bonds of fate. The story follows Lucky, a young man imprisoned for a crime he can’t remember. His world is upended when he is unexpectedly freed and swept into the arms of the sea aboard the enigmatic ship, The Dreamer.

From the very first page, Black immerses readers in a richly imagined world where the ocean is as treacherous as it is beautiful. The Dreamer and its crew of outcasts, each with their unique abilities to manipulate water, create a vibrant backdrop for Lucky’s journey. The dynamic among the crew members, particularly the bond that develops between Lucky and the sailor Gabriel, adds emotional depth to the narrative. Gabriel’s protective nature and mysterious past intrigue Lucky, sparking questions about their shared history and the twists of fate that have led them to this moment.

The pacing of the novel is expertly balanced, seamlessly blending action-packed sequences with quieter, introspective moments that allow readers to explore Lucky’s character and his quest for self-discovery. As they navigate perilous waters, face off against formidable Leviathans, and evade those determined to recapture Lucky, the stakes rise, drawing readers deeper into the story.

Black’s writing is lyrical and evocative, painting vivid imagery of the ocean’s vastness and the challenges the characters face. The themes of memory, identity, and the impact of choices resonate throughout the novel, compelling Lucky to confront not only his past but also the nature of fate itself.

Fated Winds and Promising Seas is an exhilarating journey that masterfully combines elements of fantasy, adventure, and romance. Lucky’s quest for freedom and understanding is not just a battle against external forces but also an exploration of his own identity and the ties that bind him to others.

For fans of adventurous tales with richly developed characters and intricate world-building, Rose Black’s debut novel is a captivating read. This story promises to sweep you away on the tides of emotion and discovery, leaving you eager for more.

Recommendations: If you enjoyed Fated Winds and Promising Seas, you might also like The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune. This cozy fantasy novel features a heartwarming story about found family, acceptance, and magical adventures, all set in a whimsical world that captures the imagination. For a movie that captures the spirit of adventure on the high seas, Pirates of the Caribbean is a perfect match. Its blend of swashbuckling action, humor, and supernatural elements aligns beautifully with Lucky’s journey aboard The Dreamer.

Fated Winds and Promising Seas publishes on the 19th of November, 2024. I received a free copy and am giving an honest review.