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Dunes of Water
A look-alike corpse.
A black ship.
An ocean of water to conquer.
When a mysterious man arrives with a body that looks exactly like Norah and demands she return with him, Norah is forced to go with Agriad Zul and his people. To ensure her cooperation, Agriad also brings Zadock, Norah’s beloved.
Agriad embraces Norah and announces that his daughter has been returned to him. Norah is shocked; her true potah died over three years ago.
Even worse—without Norah’s Sustaining gift, which allows her to make things grow in the desert, her people will starve.
Arriving in a world that’s the mirror opposite of her own, Norah discovers that her abduction is about more than a father wanting his daughter back.
Norah and Zadock must trust each other above all else and, once again, Norah must learn what she is willing to sacrifice to save her people.
A black ship.
An ocean of water to conquer.
When a mysterious man arrives with a body that looks exactly like Norah and demands she return with him, Norah is forced to go with Agriad Zul and his people. To ensure her cooperation, Agriad also brings Zadock, Norah’s beloved.
Agriad embraces Norah and announces that his daughter has been returned to him. Norah is shocked; her true potah died over three years ago.
Even worse—without Norah’s Sustaining gift, which allows her to make things grow in the desert, her people will starve.
Arriving in a world that’s the mirror opposite of her own, Norah discovers that her abduction is about more than a father wanting his daughter back.
Norah and Zadock must trust each other above all else and, once again, Norah must learn what she is willing to sacrifice to save her people.
374 pages, Paperback
Published August 20, 2024
About the author
Jessica Flory
4 books75 followersJessica Flory is an award-winning author of YA fantasy/romance. She has a bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology from BYU, Provo, and she uses that science background to dream up cool settings and magic systems. Jessica has been a proud member of the Hot Mess Writers Critique Group since 2013.
Jessica is a mom of three crazy boys and one girl. She is a fitness instructor and an avid baker. When she’s not writing, she can be found chasing her kids, making a mess in the kitchen, or reading with her husband. Connect with her at jessicaflory.com.
Jessica is a mom of three crazy boys and one girl. She is a fitness instructor and an avid baker. When she’s not writing, she can be found chasing her kids, making a mess in the kitchen, or reading with her husband. Connect with her at jessicaflory.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
August 21, 2024
I didn't want it to end!!
Holy frijoles was this book crazy good! This second part of the Sand Traveller Duology took the first books emotional turmoil and life questions and then tripled it, adding in higher stakes, intense world building, and even more swoony romance.
Okay but like how do I even WORDS what this book was?!
Let me just try and we'll start with Norah. My girl Norah had SOOOOO much growth in this book and her emotional journey felt so real. I felt like I was experiencing it right there with her the entire time. I absolutely could not stop turning to pages.
Zadock. I LOVED having more of Zadock's POV in this book and his loyalty, fighting abilities and everything he goes through was just 🤌🤌🤌
Laylahn. Laylahn. I love her so so so much and oh man oh man how I just wanted to give her a hug the entire book. Her healing journey was 😭😭😭 and I just 😍😍😍 and I fear saying too much. Just know I loved every second.
Also I hated the villian. He was the WORST.
Don't get me started on some of the side characters because it'll make me cry (in good and bad ways) so anyways.
It was amazing.
I will be reading it again.
So. So. So. Good.
💋Kisses only - no spice
⚠️War, blood, grief, and death are all mentioned (it's a fantasy book)
Holy frijoles was this book crazy good! This second part of the Sand Traveller Duology took the first books emotional turmoil and life questions and then tripled it, adding in higher stakes, intense world building, and even more swoony romance.
Okay but like how do I even WORDS what this book was?!
Let me just try and we'll start with Norah. My girl Norah had SOOOOO much growth in this book and her emotional journey felt so real. I felt like I was experiencing it right there with her the entire time. I absolutely could not stop turning to pages.
Zadock. I LOVED having more of Zadock's POV in this book and his loyalty, fighting abilities and everything he goes through was just 🤌🤌🤌
Laylahn. Laylahn. I love her so so so much and oh man oh man how I just wanted to give her a hug the entire book. Her healing journey was 😭😭😭 and I just 😍😍😍 and I fear saying too much. Just know I loved every second.
Also I hated the villian. He was the WORST.
Don't get me started on some of the side characters because it'll make me cry (in good and bad ways) so anyways.
It was amazing.
I will be reading it again.
So. So. So. Good.
💋Kisses only - no spice
⚠️War, blood, grief, and death are all mentioned (it's a fantasy book)
July 26, 2024
4 Stars.
🏜️ The vibes:
- sand powers
- YA fantasy
- Multi POV
- Book two in duology
🌕My thoughts:
In book 1- there’s a big focus on forgiveness- and book 2 gave me all the messiness and darkness of that which I loved.
I was very intrigued with the weirdness happening and the body double situation. I don’t want to explain much because I try to keep everything spoiler free.
There’s a scene that reminded me of Star Wars episode II: attack of the clones which I was on the edge of my seat for. This one had a lot of angst and mystery surrounding the moon stones and the goddess Atoille (check spelling).
I really loved being back in this universe with Norah and Zaddock. This book definitely focused more on a political intrigue type of plot rather than sand gifts; and while I was a little bit confused at some of the world building- I did still enjoy the journey.
It’s a fun epic quest vibe that hits a bit middle grade for me but it was really fun and I loved how unique this duology was.
Thank you so much to Jessica for the gifted copy.
🏜️ The vibes:
- sand powers
- YA fantasy
- Multi POV
- Book two in duology
🌕My thoughts:
In book 1- there’s a big focus on forgiveness- and book 2 gave me all the messiness and darkness of that which I loved.
I was very intrigued with the weirdness happening and the body double situation. I don’t want to explain much because I try to keep everything spoiler free.
There’s a scene that reminded me of Star Wars episode II: attack of the clones which I was on the edge of my seat for. This one had a lot of angst and mystery surrounding the moon stones and the goddess Atoille (check spelling).
I really loved being back in this universe with Norah and Zaddock. This book definitely focused more on a political intrigue type of plot rather than sand gifts; and while I was a little bit confused at some of the world building- I did still enjoy the journey.
It’s a fun epic quest vibe that hits a bit middle grade for me but it was really fun and I loved how unique this duology was.
Thank you so much to Jessica for the gifted copy.
October 22, 2024
Such a creative, brilliant, and well-written book! It was such a great end to the duology! I loved the themes of forgiveness in both books and all the sand powers were SO COOL!!! I loved this amazing world Jessica created!!! So well done!!!
August 20, 2024
“I am only one person. But I will do what I can, and that is enough.”
Wow! This was such a wild and unexpected sequel to Oceans of Sand. It’s full of magic, suspense, clean romance, a complex villain, and mysterious pirates with white eyes.
Told in three points of view, you get to see the story from every angle and understand what each main character is going through. I even felt connected to minor characters.
The suspense was great and I stayed up late two nights in a row because I needed to know that everyone was okay.
I would recommend this duology if you’re looking for a clean romantasy with a twisty plot and a unique setting!
Wow! This was such a wild and unexpected sequel to Oceans of Sand. It’s full of magic, suspense, clean romance, a complex villain, and mysterious pirates with white eyes.
Told in three points of view, you get to see the story from every angle and understand what each main character is going through. I even felt connected to minor characters.
The suspense was great and I stayed up late two nights in a row because I needed to know that everyone was okay.
I would recommend this duology if you’re looking for a clean romantasy with a twisty plot and a unique setting!
August 6, 2024
I was lucky enough to receive this book as an ARC. Perfect for those who love and want the romance, but without all the nakedness. World building was incredible. I'm looking forward to reading it again!!
August 9, 2024
I got lucky enough to be given an ARC for this book, and even though It took me a while to get into the book, because I was reading it in between work commitments, childcare, family time etc, I had a great time reading it.
As with the previous book, the story is captivating and the characters are interesting to follow. The writing is very good and the plot leaves you wanting for more.
I do prefer the first book, and I feel like this one left some storylines that could have been explored, like, what happened to Norah’s dad when he returned? Did he remember her after all? Why couldn’t To’Sharazad and To’Rahn and all the other plateaus become allies and trade? They could learn so much with them clearly.
I loved the plot twist in Norah’s Potah’s fate. It’s something I always wish for when a good and loving character dies, but it rarely happens, so I was very happy to find out he was alive.
Also, I never really understood why Norah looked like Cale. There was no one else with a double.
Norah’s character development was a bit annoying in the sense that, I can understand her feelings about how bad she was treated when everyone thought she was powerless and wanting to stay in To’Sharazad where she’s royalty and revered, but it disappointed me a bit that she was so willing to let her little sister die.
All in all, it’s a beautiful story, but this time, my favourite storyline was Lylahn and Imwraeth. Her character development is fabulous, the overcoming of her trauma was very well done, and her finding her place was amazing. I do feel like it was a bit unfair that she’d lose her powers though.
Definitely a book I’d recommend :)
As with the previous book, the story is captivating and the characters are interesting to follow. The writing is very good and the plot leaves you wanting for more.
I do prefer the first book, and I feel like this one left some storylines that could have been explored, like, what happened to Norah’s dad when he returned? Did he remember her after all? Why couldn’t To’Sharazad and To’Rahn and all the other plateaus become allies and trade? They could learn so much with them clearly.
I loved the plot twist in Norah’s Potah’s fate. It’s something I always wish for when a good and loving character dies, but it rarely happens, so I was very happy to find out he was alive.
Also, I never really understood why Norah looked like Cale. There was no one else with a double.
Norah’s character development was a bit annoying in the sense that, I can understand her feelings about how bad she was treated when everyone thought she was powerless and wanting to stay in To’Sharazad where she’s royalty and revered, but it disappointed me a bit that she was so willing to let her little sister die.
All in all, it’s a beautiful story, but this time, my favourite storyline was Lylahn and Imwraeth. Her character development is fabulous, the overcoming of her trauma was very well done, and her finding her place was amazing. I do feel like it was a bit unfair that she’d lose her powers though.
Definitely a book I’d recommend :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2026
“I can’t get enough of her. I will never get enough of her.”
4.5 stars rounded down!
I really enjoyed this second book in the duology. We get more world building, new characters introduced, and we get to see Laylahn’s POV and character arc, which I loved! She is probably my favorite character.
I was so intrigued by the doppelgänger plot and balancing out the two sides of the world. The villain in this one was such a great antagonist! A true villain! It was so interesting how everything played out.
Definitely recommend reading this one immediately after book 1.
Now I just need to read the novella!
Content Warning:
Language: none
Romance content: Closed-door: Characters do share a bed to sleep in, but nothing else happens other than sleep; kissing
Violence/gore: Mild-Creature violence and gore, some characters are wounded and the wounds are described as quite bloody;
4.5 stars rounded down!
I really enjoyed this second book in the duology. We get more world building, new characters introduced, and we get to see Laylahn’s POV and character arc, which I loved! She is probably my favorite character.
I was so intrigued by the doppelgänger plot and balancing out the two sides of the world. The villain in this one was such a great antagonist! A true villain! It was so interesting how everything played out.
Definitely recommend reading this one immediately after book 1.
Now I just need to read the novella!
Content Warning:
Language: none
Romance content: Closed-door: Characters do share a bed to sleep in, but nothing else happens other than sleep; kissing
Violence/gore: Mild-Creature violence and gore, some characters are wounded and the wounds are described as quite bloody;
September 4, 2024
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Dunes of Water by Jessica Flory is an incredible ending to this fantastic duology.
How will Norah and Zadock get back to their side of the world?
Norah Saranyi
Norah Saranyi has much to learn about her Sand gift of Sustaining, and she's willing to learn while trying to prevent her people from starving. The problem is that she ends up being taken from her people to the other side of the world and across the oceans of water. Norah grows a lot in this book as she learns that her Sand gift can greatly help the right people, and to the wrong people, it could be the worst gift of them all. I like how Norah doesn't want to give up on the things that are important to her while also learning from the mistakes that she sees. Especially how different Agriad Zul is.
Zadock Penvaren
When they reach the other side of the world, Zadock is worse off than Norah. Agriad Zul doesn't trust him, so Zadock is trying hard to figure out how to get them back to their side of the world. Zadock is able to learn things that Norah doesn't about Agriad Zul, and he doesn't like what he is learning. I like seeing how protective Zadock is of Norah, and he doesn't want to see her hurt, either by Agriad himself or by trying to get back home.
Zadock and Norah are great together, and I can see how much they love each other through this book. I also appreciate the lengths to which they are willing to go to protect each other from their enemies.
Five Stars
I am giving five stars to Dunes of Water by Jessica Flory, and recommend this excellent duology to any young adult reader. Ms. Flory has crafted an incredible world that I will miss learning more about. Even if I was left with some questions, but still that's okay.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Dunes of Water by Jessica Flory.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
Dunes of Water by Jessica Flory is an incredible ending to this fantastic duology.
How will Norah and Zadock get back to their side of the world?
Norah Saranyi
Norah Saranyi has much to learn about her Sand gift of Sustaining, and she's willing to learn while trying to prevent her people from starving. The problem is that she ends up being taken from her people to the other side of the world and across the oceans of water. Norah grows a lot in this book as she learns that her Sand gift can greatly help the right people, and to the wrong people, it could be the worst gift of them all. I like how Norah doesn't want to give up on the things that are important to her while also learning from the mistakes that she sees. Especially how different Agriad Zul is.
Zadock Penvaren
When they reach the other side of the world, Zadock is worse off than Norah. Agriad Zul doesn't trust him, so Zadock is trying hard to figure out how to get them back to their side of the world. Zadock is able to learn things that Norah doesn't about Agriad Zul, and he doesn't like what he is learning. I like seeing how protective Zadock is of Norah, and he doesn't want to see her hurt, either by Agriad himself or by trying to get back home.
Zadock and Norah are great together, and I can see how much they love each other through this book. I also appreciate the lengths to which they are willing to go to protect each other from their enemies.
Five Stars
I am giving five stars to Dunes of Water by Jessica Flory, and recommend this excellent duology to any young adult reader. Ms. Flory has crafted an incredible world that I will miss learning more about. Even if I was left with some questions, but still that's okay.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Dunes of Water by Jessica Flory.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
August 19, 2024
Overall this was a great read, with an evil yet engaging/complex villain and a cast of believable characters. Flory knows how to build up to a mega-intense climax (I know from reading her prequel standalone novella, The God Heist) and Dunes of Water truly delivers at the end. Many reveals sprinkled in (or dropped in like a bomb) kept me turning the pages. Even though I haven't read Oceans of Sand, I knew enough about the world from the prequel and wasn't confused during Dunes of Water.
So many fascinating and debatable issues are explored in this book. Is it selfish to let a whole society suffer so you can have a dearly beloved (once thought dead) returned? Is a person still that person if the resemblance is there, but the memories are not? Is immortality as great as it seems at first blush? Do parallel universes like ours exist, and if so, are our doubles in those universes still "us"? I LOVED having my brain tickled with all the questions!
I do wish the protagonists had concrete plans + measurable goals earlier on in the book. The overly powerful villain with nebulous motivations and seemingly no weakness did not allow for the protagonists to get any upper hand. So for longer than I wanted to, I didn't feel the suspense of "is their plan for this mini-goal gonna work or not?!" As for Laylahn's POV, I didn't feel engaged until her story merged with that of the other two.
That said, I'm glad I kept reading, because tension soars in the last third. Enough blanks began to fill in, and characters I cared about were in peril or had their relationships tested to the max. I'm always a sucker for believable characters and their interactions! And Agriad is a manipulative, conceited villain with a smile painted on, which is a bonus.
A side comment on the romance. The two couples in this book start the story already in love with each other and, while the cuddles in this book were very sweet, I have to read Oceans of Sand for a better appreciation of their love. So if you want more swoon in your reads, go read the series in order and don't do it like me lol.
If you like fantasies that build up intrigue until everything clicks into place for an explosive and oh-SO-satisfying ending, Dunes of Water is a must-read!
I was provided an ARC, and this is my honest review.
So many fascinating and debatable issues are explored in this book. Is it selfish to let a whole society suffer so you can have a dearly beloved (once thought dead) returned? Is a person still that person if the resemblance is there, but the memories are not? Is immortality as great as it seems at first blush? Do parallel universes like ours exist, and if so, are our doubles in those universes still "us"? I LOVED having my brain tickled with all the questions!
I do wish the protagonists had concrete plans + measurable goals earlier on in the book. The overly powerful villain with nebulous motivations and seemingly no weakness did not allow for the protagonists to get any upper hand. So for longer than I wanted to, I didn't feel the suspense of "is their plan for this mini-goal gonna work or not?!" As for Laylahn's POV, I didn't feel engaged until her story merged with that of the other two.
That said, I'm glad I kept reading, because tension soars in the last third. Enough blanks began to fill in, and characters I cared about were in peril or had their relationships tested to the max. I'm always a sucker for believable characters and their interactions! And Agriad is a manipulative, conceited villain with a smile painted on, which is a bonus.
A side comment on the romance. The two couples in this book start the story already in love with each other and, while the cuddles in this book were very sweet, I have to read Oceans of Sand for a better appreciation of their love. So if you want more swoon in your reads, go read the series in order and don't do it like me lol.
If you like fantasies that build up intrigue until everything clicks into place for an explosive and oh-SO-satisfying ending, Dunes of Water is a must-read!
I was provided an ARC, and this is my honest review.
July 24, 2025
DUNES OF WATER
by: Jessica Flory
@jessicafloryauthor
THE SAND TRAVELER DUOLOGY Book #2
-I give 4.5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
~A look-alike corpse. A black ship. An ocean of water to conquer. When a mysterious man arrives with a body that looks exactly like Norah and demands she return with him, Norah is forced to go with Agriad Zul and his people...
-DUNES OF WATER, thrillingly picks right up where Book #1, OCEANS OF SAND left me hanging on the edge of what comes next to this intriguing adventure. The fast-paced rollercoaster ride of a story continues on with daring adventures, dire consequences for every decision, a scary Evil Villain, and a love stories that will simply defy the odds in the best ways. Oh my, everything changes within and with such vivid details and writing, I felt fully immersed and clinging to endearing character’s shirt sleeves with this epic journey. I simply did not want to put this book down because of the incredible world building, the interesting magic system, the non-stop adventure, but also the swoony romance. This is a story of connection, trust, and of bravery. Even when facing such dire circumstances, I loved watching dear characters come to learn what they are willing to sacrifice in order to save others and be able to choose forgive. This is a story and series worth reading, friends!📚🙌🏻❤️
“I am only one person. But I will do what I can, and that is enough.”
•Content: battles, some mild creature type violence and gore, a few mentioned bloody wounds, loss of loved ones, grief, seeking revenge vs forgiveness, no language, kisses only.
“I hold her tight to me like I can push back the world, the pain, if I just hold her tight enough.”
#dunesofwater
#jessicafloryauthor
#thesandtravelerduology
#epicadvenrurestory
#worththeread
#allaboutthebestreads
-A shoutout to @swoony_reads_society for picking book one, Oceans of Sand as July’s book of the month to enjoy, which led to reading book 2. Both are worth the read!📚🙌🏻✨
by: Jessica Flory
@jessicafloryauthor
THE SAND TRAVELER DUOLOGY Book #2
-I give 4.5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
~A look-alike corpse. A black ship. An ocean of water to conquer. When a mysterious man arrives with a body that looks exactly like Norah and demands she return with him, Norah is forced to go with Agriad Zul and his people...
-DUNES OF WATER, thrillingly picks right up where Book #1, OCEANS OF SAND left me hanging on the edge of what comes next to this intriguing adventure. The fast-paced rollercoaster ride of a story continues on with daring adventures, dire consequences for every decision, a scary Evil Villain, and a love stories that will simply defy the odds in the best ways. Oh my, everything changes within and with such vivid details and writing, I felt fully immersed and clinging to endearing character’s shirt sleeves with this epic journey. I simply did not want to put this book down because of the incredible world building, the interesting magic system, the non-stop adventure, but also the swoony romance. This is a story of connection, trust, and of bravery. Even when facing such dire circumstances, I loved watching dear characters come to learn what they are willing to sacrifice in order to save others and be able to choose forgive. This is a story and series worth reading, friends!📚🙌🏻❤️
“I am only one person. But I will do what I can, and that is enough.”
•Content: battles, some mild creature type violence and gore, a few mentioned bloody wounds, loss of loved ones, grief, seeking revenge vs forgiveness, no language, kisses only.
“I hold her tight to me like I can push back the world, the pain, if I just hold her tight enough.”
#dunesofwater
#jessicafloryauthor
#thesandtravelerduology
#epicadvenrurestory
#worththeread
#allaboutthebestreads
-A shoutout to @swoony_reads_society for picking book one, Oceans of Sand as July’s book of the month to enjoy, which led to reading book 2. Both are worth the read!📚🙌🏻✨
September 10, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (rounded up!)
Genre: YA fantasy
Content: kisses, some violence, death, PTSD (though not described using that language)
This was such a fascinating sequel to Oceans of Sand. Norah and Zadock are taken across the ocean of water to To’Sharazad, a land where multiple Sustainers are living, a land that is flourishing and not on the brink of starvation, like To’Rahn is.
There, they are forced into different roles by Agriad Zul, a man who claims Norah is his daughter, reborn. He does all that he can to place a wedge between Norah and Zadock.
The magic system was so interesting! I liked seeing Lylahn and Imwraeth again. At like 87%, I was so curious how Jessica was going to wrap the story up in a way that I would like. But don’t worry, y’all, she did!
I think I mentioned it before but I still wish there was a pronunciation guide because I am 100% positive I am slaughtering some of the names and places.
Favorite Quotes:
🔥 “You must see that this needs to be done. Be reasonable." I plant my feet. Sand swirls to my fingertips. I hardly feel the sting across my chest or the blood dripping down my stomach. "I've never been reasonable. Not when it comes to her."
‼️ I am only one person. But I will do what I can, and that is enough.
Genre: YA fantasy
Content: kisses, some violence, death, PTSD (though not described using that language)
This was such a fascinating sequel to Oceans of Sand. Norah and Zadock are taken across the ocean of water to To’Sharazad, a land where multiple Sustainers are living, a land that is flourishing and not on the brink of starvation, like To’Rahn is.
There, they are forced into different roles by Agriad Zul, a man who claims Norah is his daughter, reborn. He does all that he can to place a wedge between Norah and Zadock.
The magic system was so interesting! I liked seeing Lylahn and Imwraeth again. At like 87%, I was so curious how Jessica was going to wrap the story up in a way that I would like. But don’t worry, y’all, she did!
I think I mentioned it before but I still wish there was a pronunciation guide because I am 100% positive I am slaughtering some of the names and places.
Favorite Quotes:
🔥 “You must see that this needs to be done. Be reasonable." I plant my feet. Sand swirls to my fingertips. I hardly feel the sting across my chest or the blood dripping down my stomach. "I've never been reasonable. Not when it comes to her."
‼️ I am only one person. But I will do what I can, and that is enough.
August 20, 2024
This is the second and final book in the Sand Travelers Duology and I was so excited to immerse myself back in this world with Zadock and Norah! We even got a third perspective through Lylahn with Imwraeth in this book and I came to love them also! It’s bittersweet because this is the last book and I just love the world and the characters that Jessica Flory has created! While I feel sad this is the last book I loved it so much!
I’m in tears while writing this review, I’m gonna miss this world and these characters! I’m not gonna say much about this book cause I don’t want to spoil it for anyone but this book picks back up exactly where Oceans of Sand ended and I love when fantasy books do that! It was so action packed and I was on the edge of my seat the whole book! The love between Norah and Zadock was just so beautiful! I love how she wrote strong female characters in Norah and Lylahn, they both suffer from so much but come out even stronger!
If you love romantacy books this is a book for you! I can’t wait to see what Jessica Flory writes next cause you know I’m gonna be reading whatever she writes!
I’m in tears while writing this review, I’m gonna miss this world and these characters! I’m not gonna say much about this book cause I don’t want to spoil it for anyone but this book picks back up exactly where Oceans of Sand ended and I love when fantasy books do that! It was so action packed and I was on the edge of my seat the whole book! The love between Norah and Zadock was just so beautiful! I love how she wrote strong female characters in Norah and Lylahn, they both suffer from so much but come out even stronger!
If you love romantacy books this is a book for you! I can’t wait to see what Jessica Flory writes next cause you know I’m gonna be reading whatever she writes!
August 22, 2024
ARC Review⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow, this was excellent! I enjoyed it a lot, just as good as the first book. I was so torn with how to read this, I wanted so badly to know what happened and it was such a gripping book that I wanted to read it as fast as I could. I also wanted to read so slow and just savor this because I didn’t want it to end!
This is a clean romantasy, but it was so steamy in all the right ways! I loved the connection and feelings between Norah and Zadock. The story was also told from multiple points of view and I really liked how that worked for this book. It did nothing but compliment the story. I am just still in awe of the world building in this book. It was even more descriptive and fun in this second book. I felt like I could envision this world so well and oh so wish it was a real place. Jessica Flory is now a favorite author of mine, this duology was just that good! I can’t wait to see what she writes next.
Tropes:
🌊 One bed (clean)
🌱 Sweet romance
🌊 Villian you will loathe
🌱 Touch her and die
🌊 Ballroom dancing
🌱 Tournament battles
🌊 Multiple POV (which I loved)
Quote:
"I hold her tight to me like I can push back the world, the pain, if I just hold her tight enough.”
Wow, this was excellent! I enjoyed it a lot, just as good as the first book. I was so torn with how to read this, I wanted so badly to know what happened and it was such a gripping book that I wanted to read it as fast as I could. I also wanted to read so slow and just savor this because I didn’t want it to end!
This is a clean romantasy, but it was so steamy in all the right ways! I loved the connection and feelings between Norah and Zadock. The story was also told from multiple points of view and I really liked how that worked for this book. It did nothing but compliment the story. I am just still in awe of the world building in this book. It was even more descriptive and fun in this second book. I felt like I could envision this world so well and oh so wish it was a real place. Jessica Flory is now a favorite author of mine, this duology was just that good! I can’t wait to see what she writes next.
Tropes:
🌊 One bed (clean)
🌱 Sweet romance
🌊 Villian you will loathe
🌱 Touch her and die
🌊 Ballroom dancing
🌱 Tournament battles
🌊 Multiple POV (which I loved)
Quote:
"I hold her tight to me like I can push back the world, the pain, if I just hold her tight enough.”
September 6, 2024
It was such a joy to go back into the world that Jessica Flory created in Oceans of Sand and reconnect with all the characters I came to love.
She definitely leaves you off on a major cliffhanger and so I couldn't wait for book 2!
It starts right off where book 1 ends and you get thrown right into the danger and mystery. This book was such high stakes like book 1 and I couldn't get enough.
I loved that we always get multiple points of view and never know which one it will transition to. I loved that I never knew what was going to happen next and I was just as confused about the new world, laws and leaders just like the MCs.
The relationships were so heartfelt and you are just so anxious that something may happen to one of them.
I loved that we got to see what true love is, what sacrifice looks like and the power of one person.
I love that this is a clean romance but there is lots of kisses, tension, and swoony moments.
Jessica Flory has nailed another book and I can't wait to see where she goes from here.
Multiple first person POV
zero swearing
Physical Intimacy Level 2
She definitely leaves you off on a major cliffhanger and so I couldn't wait for book 2!
It starts right off where book 1 ends and you get thrown right into the danger and mystery. This book was such high stakes like book 1 and I couldn't get enough.
I loved that we always get multiple points of view and never know which one it will transition to. I loved that I never knew what was going to happen next and I was just as confused about the new world, laws and leaders just like the MCs.
The relationships were so heartfelt and you are just so anxious that something may happen to one of them.
I loved that we got to see what true love is, what sacrifice looks like and the power of one person.
I love that this is a clean romance but there is lots of kisses, tension, and swoony moments.
Jessica Flory has nailed another book and I can't wait to see where she goes from here.
Multiple first person POV
zero swearing
Physical Intimacy Level 2
August 16, 2024
If you enjoy fast paced action packed world building this one is for you. I could not put this one down.
Full of daring adventures, dire consequences for every decision, An Especially Evil Villain, and love stories that defy the odds!
Takes off right from the crazy cliff hanger of book one and we follow Norah, Zadock, Imwraeth, and Lylahn as they continue to hold the burdens of their world that just got a whole lot bigger. Everything feels like too much and I loved how each couple helped each other in different ways even though for some it was hard to be truthful or trust everything to each other.
You’ll love:
🌊Daring Escapes
🌊Epic Battles
🌊The Arena
🌊 Dancing
🌊Sand Gifts
🌊World Building
🌊Surprise Reveals
🌊Despicable Villain
Everything changes. Be ready for the wonderful way Jessica builds her worlds and takes you on an adventure like no other. Thank you so for writing such amazing adventures.
CW: just kisses, battles that are not too descriptive, and no swearing.
Full of daring adventures, dire consequences for every decision, An Especially Evil Villain, and love stories that defy the odds!
Takes off right from the crazy cliff hanger of book one and we follow Norah, Zadock, Imwraeth, and Lylahn as they continue to hold the burdens of their world that just got a whole lot bigger. Everything feels like too much and I loved how each couple helped each other in different ways even though for some it was hard to be truthful or trust everything to each other.
You’ll love:
🌊Daring Escapes
🌊Epic Battles
🌊The Arena
🌊 Dancing
🌊Sand Gifts
🌊World Building
🌊Surprise Reveals
🌊Despicable Villain
Everything changes. Be ready for the wonderful way Jessica builds her worlds and takes you on an adventure like no other. Thank you so for writing such amazing adventures.
CW: just kisses, battles that are not too descriptive, and no swearing.
January 31, 2025
Well this was a fun conclusion. I enjoyed this book. It was interesting and fast paced and I had a hard time putting it down. The sand magic is so interesting and the story was unique and had me asking a lot of questions.
I liked Norah and Zaddock and found them interesting together. Imwraeth and Lylahn also had an interesting mg story and I really wanted to know where it was going with them as well
I have to admit, Norah frustrated me at times. I really liked Zaddock and I feel like even though Norah claimed to do everything for him sometimes I just wanted to smack some sense into her.
Some of the moon stuff was a little confusing. But all in all I enjoyed this duology!
CW: closed door (make outs only), ptsd, fighting, violence, unaliving people.
I liked Norah and Zaddock and found them interesting together. Imwraeth and Lylahn also had an interesting mg story and I really wanted to know where it was going with them as well
I have to admit, Norah frustrated me at times. I really liked Zaddock and I feel like even though Norah claimed to do everything for him sometimes I just wanted to smack some sense into her.
Some of the moon stuff was a little confusing. But all in all I enjoyed this duology!
CW: closed door (make outs only), ptsd, fighting, violence, unaliving people.
August 21, 2024
"For so long we weren't allowed to love, for fear of weakening our much needed gifts, and now that she's mine...I would do anything for her."
"I am only one person. But I will do what I can, and that is enough."
Jessica Flory is a fresh creative new voice in the YA fantasy genre. Dunes of Water is riveting right from the start! Thanks to her incredible world building, an interesting magic system, non-stop adventure, and swoony romance (kisses only), I could not put this book down!
I would not hesitate to recommend this series to teens and adults alike. This is definitely a series I will be re-reading in the future!
"I am only one person. But I will do what I can, and that is enough."
Jessica Flory is a fresh creative new voice in the YA fantasy genre. Dunes of Water is riveting right from the start! Thanks to her incredible world building, an interesting magic system, non-stop adventure, and swoony romance (kisses only), I could not put this book down!
I would not hesitate to recommend this series to teens and adults alike. This is definitely a series I will be re-reading in the future!
September 2, 2024
Fantasy isn't even my favorite genre but after reading Oceans of Sand and its novella I couldn't wait to see what was ahead for all the characters I came to love in these reads. We all face such different battles and are on different journeys and I love how these books show us ways to hope and overcome by helping one another. I loved the movie going on in my mind as I read. I was wondering how the author was going to put this puzzle together to make a beautiful ending picture and she did it. I love a good story with great characters, fun settings, lessons learned that I can apply in my own life and a happy ending! Great duology!
August 20, 2024
Jessica did it again! Norah and Zadock are back with more adorable cuteness and a whole new world to explore, this one the complete opposite of the sand world but just as fun. The romance is yummy and we get to explore Norah's feelings about having to save the world--again. It's fun to see Zadock in full lover boy/best friend mode--he's the best! Lylahn gets her own POV, complete with PTSD over seeing her entire village killed, which is raw and real and also powerful and healing. Would definitely recommend!
June 21, 2024
Ok, first of all, this cover is STUNNING!! I am in love! Second of all, this book was so much darker and deeper than the first one in the best possible way. The struggle and tension that Norah faced between choosing herself over others is a situation that all of us face daily.
And can I just say that anytime you have Norah and Zadock together, prepare to swoon!
--I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review--
And can I just say that anytime you have Norah and Zadock together, prepare to swoon!
--I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review--
August 6, 2024
So, I’m a girl who loves the mystery of a book. I love guessing the ins and outs of the plot…the eventual denouement. It’s not a bid to outsmart an author or storyline. It’s just how I enjoy reading. Jessica Flory wove a complex and wonderful riddle in the underlying character journey of the Dunes of Water players. Bravo, Jess. Her newest book made me wish the world would stop, so I could keep turning pages. This is a great read.
August 21, 2024
Jessica Flory has done it again! Her world building is spectacular in this sequel. It was already a cool and unique planet and she added new geography that left me with my mouth hanging open. She paints such a vivid picture it begs to be shown on the big screen. I was also looking forward to Norah and Zadock's story and was blown away with both the character and relationship development. Great read!
November 18, 2024
This was such a fascinating read! Flory's ability to world build was fantastic. The romance is spot on, and the writing was wonderful. Flory kept me reading into late hours of the night, intrigued by the storyline. I am excited to see what comes next from this author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 1, 2024
What an exciting adventure!! I loved every minute of this book! The plot was interesting and unexpected! I love the romance and watching it blossomed. It was sweet with no spice. I loved the world building and learning about another country within the same world. I would definitely read this again! Jessica really out did herself with this one!
August 28, 2024
Dunes of Water is a great sequel that picks up right where the first book left off. The story keeps you hooked with its mix of adventure and magic. Norah's character really shines as she faces new challenges and tough decisions. The world-building is solid, making it easy to get lost in the story. If you enjoyed the first book, this one won't disappoint.
February 26, 2026
I honestly didn’t love this book as much as the first, but I totally agree that it needed to be written. Most of the characters from the first book hadn’t fought their inner demons yet and there was a lot of the world building that needed brought full circle. It was just as well done and fascinating as the first book, I just wasn’t as interested in the tension and conflict that the main characters were forced into. Overall, a very creative and interesting series.
July 30, 2024
Fantastic read and great sequel to the Oceans of Sand. Couldn't put it down!
August 20, 2024
Fascinating. Fun. Fabulous. Family Read.
All chores were forgotten as I couldn't put it down.
All chores were forgotten as I couldn't put it down.
August 20, 2024
A clean romance/adventure with plenty of gripping twists and turns. A little darker than the first one, but it has a perfectly resolved ending to a fantastic duology.
August 21, 2024
Strong and brave heroine, incredible and unique worldbuilding, and a swoon-worthy romance. I loved this book even more than Oceans of Sand... and that one was incredible. 5 stars!
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