Grief, loss, forgiveness, letting go… Such strong themes for a children’s book, but it’s what the world needs right now. A story full of values and realistic characters like these. Hope is hard to hold on when you aren’t feeling full of strength to confront old wounds just like Lynette. Yet faith it’s ultimately what moved the waves of the book. Before continuing, I must say how thankful I am for this arc! Thanks NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op.

World-Building
“Depths. Change. Balance. There were three words, three tenets, for the Convent of Saer”.

Truly one of the richest parts of the book. What actually hooked me was the fantasy system built around the ocean. The order of The Sisters of Saer with different colors, the Water Folk, the story behind the mystic island, the three tenets, and how two kingdoms are in dispute for resources/territory. It’s already a complex world in itself. Lynette being raised practically by the Sisters in terms of faith kind of reminded me of my childhood. Great common women can lead a wonderful example in this matter with their actions. Honestly? I even wanted to join the Feast of the Shore.

Characters
Lynette and Maddox: For having 10-11 years, they sure had a huge development. The boy went from terrified to valiant. The girl from avoidant to confrontational. Although I must admit that at times they sounded older than their age in the POVs, it’s comprehensible given their circumstances. I loved how natural their friendship was. Growing gradually and not instantly. Also, not related but I might have a crush on Samsom…

Siblings and Promises
Duty or love? Sister or throne? Which promise holds the weight the most? It’s hard to let someone close to you know how deeply they hurt you. This point literally had me crying for ONE HOUR (YES). The bond between Samsom and Lynette was so marvellous to read. It sets healthy standards for younger readers.

Grief, Forgiveness, and Letting Go
“The grief comes in waves,” she said. “Today, you might be fine. But tomorrow, it could hurt again. It will take time.”

This subject was very consistent. One must have courage to forgive, even more to let loved ones go for their own happiness. I learnt a lot through Lynette and I hope other readers do too. She was incredibly relatable. So glad she made the right choice despite the open wound. That’s what growth is about, is it not? Grief is tricky because it shows in different ways as the quote says. No one deals with it the same way. I would like to see a more healed Lynette in the next delivery, if there is one.

God of the Waves and Battles
The only weak point of What the Sea Brings in my perspective was how the main conflict was resolved. Maybe I’m too used to YA books and expected more resistance, but I liked a good use of diplomacy for a change. Apart from that, are we ready to receive the answers to our prayers? Perhaps not in the way we plan. I actually enjoyed this portrayal of God and faith.Ask and you shall receive.

Conclusion
The God of the Waves is present nowadays. He has always been. He brought me this book through the sea. I couldn’t be more grateful. I am wishing for another part, if there isn’t, it was a meaningful adventure. Don’t let this masterpiece out of your sight!

“The storm in my heart faded, her words reaching through like warm sunbeam. In its light, I was seen. I was strangely heard”.

Complete review posed on Goodreads on August 4th, 2025. Future post and mini review on my IG Huellas Lectoras.

This was truly lovely.

There are honestly so many good things to love about this book. First, it has a truly original take on The Little Mermaid that made my ocean and fairy-tale loving heart happy and piqued my curiosity from the first page. Second, the characters felt like real people from the first page to the last page. I particularly loved how the younger characters acted their age. The ten-year-old characters acted like ten-year-olds, with all the big feelings, impulsive behavior, fears, and compassion that come from being that particular age. As someone much older than ten myself, I was able to enter into those characters' worlds seamlessly, see life from their perspectives, and empathize with them. Third, the story handled themes of grief and loss with nuance, realism, clarity, and a lack of lecturing that made the story impactful and educational--all while keeping the topics age-appropriate for a younger audience. I would feel perfectly comfortable handing this book to a ten-year-old, knowing that the child will get a good story and also start learning valuable lessons about what grief is, how to deal with it, and how to help others through it.

I loved this book, and I highly recommend it to people wanting a heartwarming middle grade story--no matter their age.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!