Book review of Broken Tides

Thirty years after a cataclysmic flood reshaped the world, leaving only scattered islands above the waves, Abigail finds herself caught in a desperate struggle for survival in Denelsbeck's Broken Tides (A Shift in the Tide). Haunted by a mysterious past and hunted by shadowy figures, Abigail must uncover the truth about her identity and the sacrifices made to ensure humanity's continued existence. In a world ruled by fear and distrust, where civilization clings precariously to life, Abigail's quest for answers throws her into the heart of a brutal new order. Can she discern friend from foe, or will she become another victim of the savage new world? This gripping post-apocalyptic thriller explores themes of survival, identity, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Paperback 20.00 USD

3.9 / 40 ratings

Review Broken Tides

Broken Tides, by Denelsbeck, completely swept me away! It's a post-apocalyptic pirate adventure that's refreshingly original and brimming with exciting twists. The premise alone – a world ravaged by water, leaving behind scattered islands ruled by a new breed of seafaring pirates – is captivating. Thirty years after the catastrophe, Abigail's life is turned upside down when long-buried secrets threaten everything she knows.

The pacing is absolutely perfect; the story flows effortlessly, keeping you hooked from the very first page. Denelsbeck masterfully builds suspense, revealing just enough information to keep you guessing while expertly dropping hints that cleverly foreshadow the shocking revelations to come. I found myself constantly surprised by the plot twists – some I predicted, others completely blindsided me – making for a truly exhilarating reading experience. The author’s ability to seamlessly weave in these plot twists, while keeping the narrative engaging and the pacing swift, is a testament to their skill.

Abigail is a compelling protagonist. She's strong, skilled with a sword, and fiercely independent, yet carries a vulnerability that makes her incredibly relatable. Watching her navigate betrayal, danger, and the crushing weight of newly discovered truths was both heartbreaking and inspiring. Her journey of self-discovery, interwoven with the thrilling pirate adventures, is what truly makes this book so unforgettable. The emotional weight of her situation, especially near the end, resonated deeply; I genuinely felt for this girl and her struggles.

The two male leads, Caspian and Ace, are both incredibly dreamy, a welcome change from the sometimes-obnoxious blonde MMCs I've encountered. The romantic tension between Abigail and both men is expertly crafted; the enemies-to-lovers trope with Caspian is particularly well-executed, full of simmering tension and captivating chemistry. I appreciated that the story didn't force a rushed choice between them and instead allowed for a complex dynamic to develop.

While some reviewers wished for a slower burn romance or more extensive world-building, I found the fast pace perfectly suited to the high-stakes adventure. The brisk storytelling kept the energy high and maintained the sense of urgency that was vital to the plot. The book's shorter length didn't detract from the depth of the characters or the impact of the story; instead, it allowed for a concentrated and impactful narrative. The ending, a gut-wrenching cliffhanger, leaves you desperately craving more – a testament to the author's ability to leave a lasting impression. The combination of the action-packed plot, intriguing characters, and unexpected twists makes Broken Tides a truly unputdownable read. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys pirate stories, romantic suspense, and a healthy dose of unexpected twists.

Information

• Dimensions: 5.25 x 0.42 x 8 inches
• Language: English
• Print length: 166
• Publication date: 2025
• Publisher: A.M. Denelsbeck

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