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The Tidal Kiss Trilogy #2
The Kiss That Saved Me
Can One Young Mermaid Resist The Alluring Call Of The Deep?
SYNOPSIS
Four months have passed since the night Callie fulfilled her destiny and her world is shifting faster than ever before. The Occulta Mirum is in disarray, still reeling from the demise of its longest-reigning monarch, and its people have a decision to make that’s more vital than they know.
As Callie and Orion rise to face new responsibility, Callie finds herself looking to the deep for answers. The life she's been thrown into isn't what she expected, and as her responsibility for the Mer mounts, the cracks in her fantasy start to show. Is the dark mystique of the Psiren's world what Callie was destined for all along?Dive into the ocean at greater depth than ever before as Callie learns the truth of an ancient Psiren agenda and dances with the allure of what will seemingly save everyone she loves.
Power.
Sweet, Spicy Mermaid Fantasy Romance, perfect for lovers of Adult Fantasy Romance with immersive worldbuilding such as A Court of Thorns and Roses, From Blood and Ash, and The Cruel Prince.
SYNOPSIS
Four months have passed since the night Callie fulfilled her destiny and her world is shifting faster than ever before. The Occulta Mirum is in disarray, still reeling from the demise of its longest-reigning monarch, and its people have a decision to make that’s more vital than they know.
As Callie and Orion rise to face new responsibility, Callie finds herself looking to the deep for answers. The life she's been thrown into isn't what she expected, and as her responsibility for the Mer mounts, the cracks in her fantasy start to show. Is the dark mystique of the Psiren's world what Callie was destined for all along?Dive into the ocean at greater depth than ever before as Callie learns the truth of an ancient Psiren agenda and dances with the allure of what will seemingly save everyone she loves.
Power.
Sweet, Spicy Mermaid Fantasy Romance, perfect for lovers of Adult Fantasy Romance with immersive worldbuilding such as A Court of Thorns and Roses, From Blood and Ash, and The Cruel Prince.
418 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2016
22 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
Kristy Nicolle
25 books215 followersHi, I’m Kristy Nicolle, a 27-year-old British writer achieving freedom from the pain of my Ehlers Danlos Syndrome diagnosis by bringing fantasy worlds to life for my readers. I currently enjoy spending time in my fuzzy PJs with my kitty arch nemesis, Moo, and love all things mermaids, unicorns, and glitter! My books centre around high detail, high action fantasy worlds, full of badass female characters who love to get steamy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
April 19, 2025
This second book in Kristy Nicolle’s The Tidal Kiss Trilogy was everything I didn’t know I needed! I loved all the political intrigue, and the fact that we as readers got multiple POVs that helped explained everything that was happening.
“The Kiss That Saved Me” is the continuation of Callie and Orion’s story, and I truly think that they both go through a lot of character development in this one! They both have a lot of things to deal with, which was the cause of all this agonizing angst, but that’s part of why it was so good!
I’m truly invested in this trilogy at this point. I’m both excited and scared to see how it ends, but I’m really looking forward to reading the final book. Kristy Nicolle is a brilliant writer, and I highly recommend her books if you love epic fantasy romance with a heavy emphasis on world building!
“The Kiss That Saved Me” is the continuation of Callie and Orion’s story, and I truly think that they both go through a lot of character development in this one! They both have a lot of things to deal with, which was the cause of all this agonizing angst, but that’s part of why it was so good!
I’m truly invested in this trilogy at this point. I’m both excited and scared to see how it ends, but I’m really looking forward to reading the final book. Kristy Nicolle is a brilliant writer, and I highly recommend her books if you love epic fantasy romance with a heavy emphasis on world building!
February 22, 2025
*I am lucky to be part of the ARC team for the relaunch of this incredible series, but please be assured that my review is my own opinion, and not influenced in any way, shape, or form.*
The Kiss that Saved Me is book two in the first trilogy of the Queens of Fantasy saga. The first book completely captured my heart, and mind during my time reading it. This book managed to do the same by continuing the story seamlessly. If you go look at my review of the first book, you'll see me saying that I would be barreling through the rest of this trilogy very soon and moving onto the next one. Well, life happened and I wasn't able to do that so I just finished this one last month and now here comes my review! You know it's good when you're able to leave a FANTASTIC review even a month after you've put the book down.
Cassie grew so much in the first book, and I'd be lying if I said she didn't continue to grow through the second book. Growth comes in many shapes and forms, and in her case... some growing required some choices that some readers might not be a fan of. I know for me, personally, I enjoyed the change of pace for her even if it wasn't meant to be. We love a morally grey man up in here. She makes her way back to her solace of Orion, while also figuring out her place on her own, without needing him to hold her up. Cassie and Orion also maintain their chemistry despite struggles. *ahem* "I believe you wanted privacy." "So, you got us a waterfall?" I exclaim with a raised eyebrow. "Nobody's hearing your moans over that-" Allow me to go hunting for an Orion... brb.
Orion also has a lot of struggles and growth in this book. He has to go through grief, dynamic changes with his position for the people, familial position changes, and so on. He really got hit with a lot at the end of the first book. It takes him a while to get his bearings straight, but once he does... He knows what he wants, who he wants, and he will stop at nothing to get those things done and in the proper way. One of my favorite lines from Orion in this book is at the very beginning and it goes, "My father taught me to be a gentleman. Or I thought he had. The problem is, you see, he didn't teach me how to love. Where are the boundaries? How do you possess someone without imprisoning them? How do you hold a heart in the palm of your hand without crushing it? If only he had taught me these things." If you need any indication of the struggles that Orion only begins to face in this book, there you go.
The humor. Again with the humor. Even a serious book, Kristy hit the nail on the head again with making sure we had some sass and humor in the book. "Are you kidding? Mr Grumpy Gills? Mr You are the beacon of shining hope to our people in a time of encroaching darkness?" Okay, maybe it's more sarcastic sass, but isn't that the way we like it?
The world building was also well executed just as it was in the first book. Here are a few snippets of world building that captured my mind:
-"Twilight opens above us, weeping vanilla, lavender, and periwinkle as a birth of new stars prickle, fragile in the dying light."
-"I am astounded as always at the intricacy of the buildings, some of which are adorned with balconies and sweeping staircases swirling around their exteriors. Others are made up of spherical structures; like someone's blown bubbles and they've frozen atop icy pedestals. At the centre of the city is an ice palace. I don't know why I'm surprised, after all, the Mer built this, so it only makes sense that the features of it remind me of The Occulta Mirum." Also this one gives you a little bit of a cliffhanger-y slight spoiler, so I guess you'll just have to read it to find out where they are. Teehee.
Just to reference a couple of quotes that hit me like a ton of bricks, because Kristy just knows how to write everything. (Seriously, I'd like to bring back the idea of that fantasy writers throne from my review of the first book.):
-"Why are fear and violence the only ways to gain such subservience?"
-"When did I start being the one that everyone looks to for hope, comfort, and reassurance? Where the hell is my hope, comfort, and reassurance? Why is it always me that gets the shit end of the oar?"
-"I wonder now how I did it, allowing my life to revolve around a man so completely."
-"I'm so used to death and pain and the fall of everything beautiful in my life that I've lost the ability to care."
ALSO, I PROMISE WE HAVE ANOTHER HEA WITH THIS ONE Y'ALL! I will never steer you wrong with one of my reviews. I promise. "I wanted you to be what I wanted. It's only now that I see how stupid that is. You're far too beautiful and far too unique for me to even begin to put my finger on what you are, let alone what you should be." I told y'all he comes to his senses. Now, I've dropped enough quotes but not any spoilers. GO READ THIS BOOK! But make sure you read the first one first, besties!
The Kiss that Saved Me is book two in the first trilogy of the Queens of Fantasy saga. The first book completely captured my heart, and mind during my time reading it. This book managed to do the same by continuing the story seamlessly. If you go look at my review of the first book, you'll see me saying that I would be barreling through the rest of this trilogy very soon and moving onto the next one. Well, life happened and I wasn't able to do that so I just finished this one last month and now here comes my review! You know it's good when you're able to leave a FANTASTIC review even a month after you've put the book down.
Cassie grew so much in the first book, and I'd be lying if I said she didn't continue to grow through the second book. Growth comes in many shapes and forms, and in her case... some growing required some choices that some readers might not be a fan of. I know for me, personally, I enjoyed the change of pace for her even if it wasn't meant to be. We love a morally grey man up in here. She makes her way back to her solace of Orion, while also figuring out her place on her own, without needing him to hold her up. Cassie and Orion also maintain their chemistry despite struggles. *ahem* "I believe you wanted privacy." "So, you got us a waterfall?" I exclaim with a raised eyebrow. "Nobody's hearing your moans over that-" Allow me to go hunting for an Orion... brb.
Orion also has a lot of struggles and growth in this book. He has to go through grief, dynamic changes with his position for the people, familial position changes, and so on. He really got hit with a lot at the end of the first book. It takes him a while to get his bearings straight, but once he does... He knows what he wants, who he wants, and he will stop at nothing to get those things done and in the proper way. One of my favorite lines from Orion in this book is at the very beginning and it goes, "My father taught me to be a gentleman. Or I thought he had. The problem is, you see, he didn't teach me how to love. Where are the boundaries? How do you possess someone without imprisoning them? How do you hold a heart in the palm of your hand without crushing it? If only he had taught me these things." If you need any indication of the struggles that Orion only begins to face in this book, there you go.
The humor. Again with the humor. Even a serious book, Kristy hit the nail on the head again with making sure we had some sass and humor in the book. "Are you kidding? Mr Grumpy Gills? Mr You are the beacon of shining hope to our people in a time of encroaching darkness?" Okay, maybe it's more sarcastic sass, but isn't that the way we like it?
The world building was also well executed just as it was in the first book. Here are a few snippets of world building that captured my mind:
-"Twilight opens above us, weeping vanilla, lavender, and periwinkle as a birth of new stars prickle, fragile in the dying light."
-"I am astounded as always at the intricacy of the buildings, some of which are adorned with balconies and sweeping staircases swirling around their exteriors. Others are made up of spherical structures; like someone's blown bubbles and they've frozen atop icy pedestals. At the centre of the city is an ice palace. I don't know why I'm surprised, after all, the Mer built this, so it only makes sense that the features of it remind me of The Occulta Mirum." Also this one gives you a little bit of a cliffhanger-y slight spoiler, so I guess you'll just have to read it to find out where they are. Teehee.
Just to reference a couple of quotes that hit me like a ton of bricks, because Kristy just knows how to write everything. (Seriously, I'd like to bring back the idea of that fantasy writers throne from my review of the first book.):
-"Why are fear and violence the only ways to gain such subservience?"
-"When did I start being the one that everyone looks to for hope, comfort, and reassurance? Where the hell is my hope, comfort, and reassurance? Why is it always me that gets the shit end of the oar?"
-"I wonder now how I did it, allowing my life to revolve around a man so completely."
-"I'm so used to death and pain and the fall of everything beautiful in my life that I've lost the ability to care."
ALSO, I PROMISE WE HAVE ANOTHER HEA WITH THIS ONE Y'ALL! I will never steer you wrong with one of my reviews. I promise. "I wanted you to be what I wanted. It's only now that I see how stupid that is. You're far too beautiful and far too unique for me to even begin to put my finger on what you are, let alone what you should be." I told y'all he comes to his senses. Now, I've dropped enough quotes but not any spoilers. GO READ THIS BOOK! But make sure you read the first one first, besties!
December 3, 2017
Growing up in the 80’s was (and still is) essentially living in duality. 80’s kids witnessed video games and technology (somewhat) from the ground up- so everything they came out with, with the exception of some gaming systems, was bigger and better than the last. In regards to technology, it has been a continuous upward trend.
Not so true with Disney movies. Growing up Disney, girls especially, lived under falsified pretenses of what being a girl/princess was. Let’s be honest, at some point in our female lives we’ve been called princess, so if the shoe fits (and remember, it did for Cinderella!). So imagine my dismay as I became older my inability to summon woodland creatures with my (not so) melodious voice. My hair did not stay in perfect straight locks while underwater. Prince Charming rarely makes an appearance. We were spoiled. We grew up thinking that girls are damsels in distress; that we need rescuing. On the flip side of that coin boys were failed. Where/when was chivalry taught or even shown?
Let me segue into my point before I lose all my readers. Being 2017 and we’ve evolved just a bit, and games, movies and books have caught on- and it’s bloody brilliant.
Strong female leads. To me, I just started scratching the surface of this concept with the books A Court of Thorns and Roses and Throne of Glass both by the talented Sarah J Maas. Let me introduce you to the newest author that has earned my utmost respect by not allowing females in her novels to be mere damsels in distress. Kristy Nicolle.
So I’m warning you right now- if you HAVEN’T read the first book in this series “The Kiss That Killed Me” you need to stop reading this blog post immediately. I’m not one for spoilers, I refuse to spoil a book in the middle of a series. So you’ve been warned!
We have, for the most part, the exact same cast of characters we did in book one. Which is absolutely brilliant because the author does some major character development with each, making this my favorite (so far) read of the trilogy.
Orion is back. he’s still reeling from his father’s death. The mer people just lost their leader, and naturally are looking to fill that position immediately. Not out of disrespect, but for structure. Who better to fill Atlas’ shoes than his only son. Only problem is Orion was reluctant to move into the “castle” when his dad was alive. Now he’s expected/wanted to to assume responsibility by his people, and Orion feels less than superior for the job. Nicolle is brilliant making you feel absolute grief from the death of a parent; the uncertainty of living up to expectations to fill gigantic shoes, regret over things we shoulda/coulda/woulda learned from parents, but thought that we had plenty of time left. And we all know men- OK I’ll give the guys a break here; we all know CERTAIN kinds of men, that don’t really show their emotions. . .well. . .emotionally. They decide to channel grief in their own unique, annoying, sometimes unhealthy way.
If Callie can survive death, AND up choosing to live life as a mermaid instead of a Goddess, of course she’s going to be back in this book. It is in this character’s development alone that this book get’s a high rating. Callie goes from a humdrum teenager, go getting stabbed in the back by a psiren, and starting her life as a mermaid and Orion’s soulmate. When your life does a complete 180 degree, you should be allotted to ask as many questions as you want; which is exactly what Callie does. Although, it seems to annoy her soulmate. I’m sure the day I turn into a mermaid, I’m gonna ask a billion questions, so if my soulmate isn’t ready for that, it’s single lady time. It also seems that with Callie’s death at the end of book one it further annoys Orion that she made a decision this monumental without asking him. Ick just writing that sentence makes my skin crawl. So with Orion taking the place of his father, he need a Queen by his side. Seems ridiculous that it should be anyone BUT Callie, so Callie seamlessly fills that role.
Saturnus is still advising; completely butt hurt because he wasn’t chosen by the mer people to be king. Sorry sweet heart, go stare at your golden reflection a bit longer, maybe the Goddess will show an ounce of pity on you. Orion and Saturnus seem to butt heads, mainly because Orion is now in charge. Saturnus though is a major nosy Nancy. JUST because two mer people are soul mates does NOT mean you need to push a King to propose to your unsure other half that’s still trying to figure things out. But hey, Saturnus has been around for AGES! He’s gotta know what he’s talking about right? And such a ladies man, cause he knows how women work . . .pffft.
Azure and Starlet are here too. I don’t think I ever mentioned this in the previous post, but I love Azure’s character. Sure she stabbed Callie in the back. But brunette’s let’s be honest with ourselves. There’s been AT LEAST one time we’ve wanted to stab a blonde in the back . . . am I right? No? Just me? . . .moving on then.
Azure and Starlet are at this point trying to bridge the gap in their soulmate relationship. Azure is still fighting the dark, but slowly coming back to her old self. There’s no one like her now, and she’s completely alone as far as what she experienced. I’d be short tempered and snarky with the lot of them too.
So let’s get back to Callie. She hasn’t been right since she died. In the first book she was questioning everything, and curious, and in awe of everything, shy etc. As this book progresses, it’s as if Callie and Azure have completely switched. Callie is short-tempered to the point where she’s feeling angry. We’ve got Orion not dealing with his grief but instead of dealing with it in a healthy, adult, centuries old kinda way, he channels it to Callie in sexual escapades. Nothing wrong with that (to a point), but when she’s literally asking/begging him to talk to her, and he’s slobbering up her mouth; dude enough already. And let’s not forget Saturnus’ sage advice to propose to Callie. So how does our gallant King decide to go about this? Oh, only to catch her off guard in front of EVERYONE.
Right here- right freaking here is where I fell in love with the book. Callie ran away (again). But it’s at this point in the book that we start to see Callie experience this suppressed side of her that is drawing on the anger (there’s a bigger reason, but I’m not going to ruin that for you). So Callie, being Callie, does what’s logical in her mind. In book one she’s looking for her father, and what better place to start than where the Psirens are?
So here is this blonde mermaid, with aqua marine scales and the aqua marine face mask, and slowly throughout the course of the book these scales and hair fade to black. Cue in Vexus (Sexy Vexy) a villain (but is he really a villain?) anyone could fall for, and the perfect balance in Callie’s life right now.
Callie is absolutely struggling with the dichotomy of good and evil in this book- all very human, and easy to relate to. She’s thrown into a world she’s expected to assimilate to. She’s thrown into being a soulmate without question. Thrown into queenship. Tried being thrown into a marriage. Trying to live up to all these expectations is tiresome, and would make any sane person question whether or not all that work is worth it. With the Psirens, Callie is able to explore being the fighter she wanted to be with the mer. She experiments with being edgy, and throwing caution to the wind, and trying to wear leather and corsets.
It’s through dancing with the dark that Callie finally understands the person she is meant to be in this new world. And the prophecy still has not come to pass. So did Callie die for naught? What secrets has she learned from the Psirens, and is a psiren life for her or is it just a skin she’s trying on?
There was quite a bit of growth just going from book one to book two. They connect seamlessly, and continue right where the last stopped. I do think the story line for this one was brilliantly thought out. It was just perfect. Everything that happened in here was perfection. Plot twists, story line, character development, more fricken plot twists. Ugh. Too brilliant. I cannot believe I’m already to the last book- and I’m kinda bummed!
Not so true with Disney movies. Growing up Disney, girls especially, lived under falsified pretenses of what being a girl/princess was. Let’s be honest, at some point in our female lives we’ve been called princess, so if the shoe fits (and remember, it did for Cinderella!). So imagine my dismay as I became older my inability to summon woodland creatures with my (not so) melodious voice. My hair did not stay in perfect straight locks while underwater. Prince Charming rarely makes an appearance. We were spoiled. We grew up thinking that girls are damsels in distress; that we need rescuing. On the flip side of that coin boys were failed. Where/when was chivalry taught or even shown?
Let me segue into my point before I lose all my readers. Being 2017 and we’ve evolved just a bit, and games, movies and books have caught on- and it’s bloody brilliant.
Strong female leads. To me, I just started scratching the surface of this concept with the books A Court of Thorns and Roses and Throne of Glass both by the talented Sarah J Maas. Let me introduce you to the newest author that has earned my utmost respect by not allowing females in her novels to be mere damsels in distress. Kristy Nicolle.
So I’m warning you right now- if you HAVEN’T read the first book in this series “The Kiss That Killed Me” you need to stop reading this blog post immediately. I’m not one for spoilers, I refuse to spoil a book in the middle of a series. So you’ve been warned!
We have, for the most part, the exact same cast of characters we did in book one. Which is absolutely brilliant because the author does some major character development with each, making this my favorite (so far) read of the trilogy.
Orion is back. he’s still reeling from his father’s death. The mer people just lost their leader, and naturally are looking to fill that position immediately. Not out of disrespect, but for structure. Who better to fill Atlas’ shoes than his only son. Only problem is Orion was reluctant to move into the “castle” when his dad was alive. Now he’s expected/wanted to to assume responsibility by his people, and Orion feels less than superior for the job. Nicolle is brilliant making you feel absolute grief from the death of a parent; the uncertainty of living up to expectations to fill gigantic shoes, regret over things we shoulda/coulda/woulda learned from parents, but thought that we had plenty of time left. And we all know men- OK I’ll give the guys a break here; we all know CERTAIN kinds of men, that don’t really show their emotions. . .well. . .emotionally. They decide to channel grief in their own unique, annoying, sometimes unhealthy way.
If Callie can survive death, AND up choosing to live life as a mermaid instead of a Goddess, of course she’s going to be back in this book. It is in this character’s development alone that this book get’s a high rating. Callie goes from a humdrum teenager, go getting stabbed in the back by a psiren, and starting her life as a mermaid and Orion’s soulmate. When your life does a complete 180 degree, you should be allotted to ask as many questions as you want; which is exactly what Callie does. Although, it seems to annoy her soulmate. I’m sure the day I turn into a mermaid, I’m gonna ask a billion questions, so if my soulmate isn’t ready for that, it’s single lady time. It also seems that with Callie’s death at the end of book one it further annoys Orion that she made a decision this monumental without asking him. Ick just writing that sentence makes my skin crawl. So with Orion taking the place of his father, he need a Queen by his side. Seems ridiculous that it should be anyone BUT Callie, so Callie seamlessly fills that role.
Saturnus is still advising; completely butt hurt because he wasn’t chosen by the mer people to be king. Sorry sweet heart, go stare at your golden reflection a bit longer, maybe the Goddess will show an ounce of pity on you. Orion and Saturnus seem to butt heads, mainly because Orion is now in charge. Saturnus though is a major nosy Nancy. JUST because two mer people are soul mates does NOT mean you need to push a King to propose to your unsure other half that’s still trying to figure things out. But hey, Saturnus has been around for AGES! He’s gotta know what he’s talking about right? And such a ladies man, cause he knows how women work . . .pffft.
Azure and Starlet are here too. I don’t think I ever mentioned this in the previous post, but I love Azure’s character. Sure she stabbed Callie in the back. But brunette’s let’s be honest with ourselves. There’s been AT LEAST one time we’ve wanted to stab a blonde in the back . . . am I right? No? Just me? . . .moving on then.
Azure and Starlet are at this point trying to bridge the gap in their soulmate relationship. Azure is still fighting the dark, but slowly coming back to her old self. There’s no one like her now, and she’s completely alone as far as what she experienced. I’d be short tempered and snarky with the lot of them too.
So let’s get back to Callie. She hasn’t been right since she died. In the first book she was questioning everything, and curious, and in awe of everything, shy etc. As this book progresses, it’s as if Callie and Azure have completely switched. Callie is short-tempered to the point where she’s feeling angry. We’ve got Orion not dealing with his grief but instead of dealing with it in a healthy, adult, centuries old kinda way, he channels it to Callie in sexual escapades. Nothing wrong with that (to a point), but when she’s literally asking/begging him to talk to her, and he’s slobbering up her mouth; dude enough already. And let’s not forget Saturnus’ sage advice to propose to Callie. So how does our gallant King decide to go about this? Oh, only to catch her off guard in front of EVERYONE.
Right here- right freaking here is where I fell in love with the book. Callie ran away (again). But it’s at this point in the book that we start to see Callie experience this suppressed side of her that is drawing on the anger (there’s a bigger reason, but I’m not going to ruin that for you). So Callie, being Callie, does what’s logical in her mind. In book one she’s looking for her father, and what better place to start than where the Psirens are?
So here is this blonde mermaid, with aqua marine scales and the aqua marine face mask, and slowly throughout the course of the book these scales and hair fade to black. Cue in Vexus (Sexy Vexy) a villain (but is he really a villain?) anyone could fall for, and the perfect balance in Callie’s life right now.
Callie is absolutely struggling with the dichotomy of good and evil in this book- all very human, and easy to relate to. She’s thrown into a world she’s expected to assimilate to. She’s thrown into being a soulmate without question. Thrown into queenship. Tried being thrown into a marriage. Trying to live up to all these expectations is tiresome, and would make any sane person question whether or not all that work is worth it. With the Psirens, Callie is able to explore being the fighter she wanted to be with the mer. She experiments with being edgy, and throwing caution to the wind, and trying to wear leather and corsets.
It’s through dancing with the dark that Callie finally understands the person she is meant to be in this new world. And the prophecy still has not come to pass. So did Callie die for naught? What secrets has she learned from the Psirens, and is a psiren life for her or is it just a skin she’s trying on?
There was quite a bit of growth just going from book one to book two. They connect seamlessly, and continue right where the last stopped. I do think the story line for this one was brilliantly thought out. It was just perfect. Everything that happened in here was perfection. Plot twists, story line, character development, more fricken plot twists. Ugh. Too brilliant. I cannot believe I’m already to the last book- and I’m kinda bummed!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2017
"How do you possess someone without imprisoning them? How do you hold a heart in the palm of your hand without crushing it?"
I absolutely loved the first book in this series! I had no idea how Kristy Nicolle was going to beat the first book, but she did! The Kiss That Saved Me blew my mind! Once again, I have no idea how one person's mind came up with this story. Kristy is BRILLIANT!
The Kiss That Saved Me is the second book in The Tidal Kiss Trilogy. Callie and Orion are faced with a huge decision that Orion can not handle. These two are still trying to get to know each other, so the added stress of ruling is a bit too much. Imagine if you were Callie? All of a sudden you are a mermaid and you are destined to be with Orion and you have no say about it. Good thing she really loves Orion. The two of them do not know how to understand each other yet and that ends up pushing Callie away. Callie sets out on a quest to find her dad and completely loses herself on the way.
"My skin is mapped with dark veins and my hair is black as soot, messy and knotted down my spine. My body is a paint by numbers of pleasures and pains that now haunt me. I had given in to the darkness."
Callie meets Vex. Callie begins to turn dark. Why do the psirens want Callie dark? Can Orion find her and save her? There are many wild secrets that come out in this book and Callie and Orion will need each other to get through this. Orion's people are in a lot of trouble and there is a trader living among them. What will callie learn about her family? Will Orion ever find her? Will Callie forgive him? Can these two get it together and be leaders before it is too late?
Kristy's characters are to die for! They are completely amazing and I absolutely love them. Callie is a badass, Orion is super sweet and caring, and Vex is just awesome! Vex is a character introduced to us in this book and something about him just grabbed my attention. I also have a spot for Azure! Something about her just makes me love her! She is so dark and misunderstood. Now... if you guys have no idea what or who I am talking about, then you are missing out! These are characters that you guys need to know!
This book is so detailed! There is so much going on at the same time and I absolutely love it! I feel like this book is way too amazing to be true! I am still in awh over this book and how good it is! I do not think I have ever needed hard copies of a book this bad! The kindle version is just not good enough for me. I need this series sitting on my book shelf and you guys need it on your TBR list! You will not regret it!
I absolutely loved the first book in this series! I had no idea how Kristy Nicolle was going to beat the first book, but she did! The Kiss That Saved Me blew my mind! Once again, I have no idea how one person's mind came up with this story. Kristy is BRILLIANT!
The Kiss That Saved Me is the second book in The Tidal Kiss Trilogy. Callie and Orion are faced with a huge decision that Orion can not handle. These two are still trying to get to know each other, so the added stress of ruling is a bit too much. Imagine if you were Callie? All of a sudden you are a mermaid and you are destined to be with Orion and you have no say about it. Good thing she really loves Orion. The two of them do not know how to understand each other yet and that ends up pushing Callie away. Callie sets out on a quest to find her dad and completely loses herself on the way.
"My skin is mapped with dark veins and my hair is black as soot, messy and knotted down my spine. My body is a paint by numbers of pleasures and pains that now haunt me. I had given in to the darkness."
Callie meets Vex. Callie begins to turn dark. Why do the psirens want Callie dark? Can Orion find her and save her? There are many wild secrets that come out in this book and Callie and Orion will need each other to get through this. Orion's people are in a lot of trouble and there is a trader living among them. What will callie learn about her family? Will Orion ever find her? Will Callie forgive him? Can these two get it together and be leaders before it is too late?
Kristy's characters are to die for! They are completely amazing and I absolutely love them. Callie is a badass, Orion is super sweet and caring, and Vex is just awesome! Vex is a character introduced to us in this book and something about him just grabbed my attention. I also have a spot for Azure! Something about her just makes me love her! She is so dark and misunderstood. Now... if you guys have no idea what or who I am talking about, then you are missing out! These are characters that you guys need to know!
This book is so detailed! There is so much going on at the same time and I absolutely love it! I feel like this book is way too amazing to be true! I am still in awh over this book and how good it is! I do not think I have ever needed hard copies of a book this bad! The kindle version is just not good enough for me. I need this series sitting on my book shelf and you guys need it on your TBR list! You will not regret it!
February 15, 2017
I love this series! it's different than any mermaid book I've ever read and I'm addicted to it. I love the characters and the storyline.
June 27, 2016
Author Kristy Nicolle proves with book two of The Tidal Kiss Trilogy that she is truly a force to be reckoned with as she has given us a unique look into how her writing style can evolve from light to dark. We are given the opportunity to delve into the dark recesses of the author's mind as this book is nothing like the first and we are afforded a completely dark and compelling read like no other. The characters that we have grown to either love or hate have evolved beyond my greatest expectations and the depths of this story hit me to my very core with unexpected and shocking revelations that will blow all readers straight out of the water. This book leaves you with a lasting impression and with a desire for more.
I look forward to seeing how the next book turns out and I once again applaud the author's creativity.
{I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review. I made no guarantee of a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and my own.}
I look forward to seeing how the next book turns out and I once again applaud the author's creativity.
{I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review. I made no guarantee of a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and my own.}
November 8, 2019
I can't say no to this series. I reminded myself that I had a list a mile long that needed doing and I should set it aside for now, but... I'm really not good with altruistic abstinence💋 The second book in the Tidal Kiss trilogy, The Kiss That Saved Me, gives its readers all sorts of new what-the, what-thes, and plot twists (black has always been my favorite color - consider me pleased). Book 2 will open your eyes to the author's expertly dropped plot crumbs in book 1 - shock waves!
TKTSM is about losing yourself, about losing your way, and then having the courage to change and find your way back. It sounds somewhat deep for a mermaid fantasy, but this author absolutely has her ink-stained fingers on the pulse of human nature. She recognizes that heroes and heroines don't always just pick the right door. They sometimes get so far from the light that leading by example is on hiatus. Readers may wish to interview new candidates for the mains because there is now disappointment for their utter lack of willpower - but then (I hope anyway) that Tidal fans realize Kristy Nicolle has humanized her characters to an uncomfortable degree. Most readers use books as an escape from real life - this author throws real life in our faces and gifts any naysayer with her middle finger. Real-life is messy. Real-life men and women aren't always strong, and they sure as $h*t don't make perfect decisions all the time. Is this where I mention The Kiss That Saved Me is extraordinary? Okay... it's extraordinary.
Btw - I have The Kiss That Changed Me on standby🧜♂️🧜♀️
*Note - The tequila scene... Four score and seven years ago, I too drank of this poison. And from that day to this, I am oft beleaguered by regurgitation and ponderings of past mistakes... sooo... thanks for that KN.
*Note - TKTSM has an especially off-road, path less traveled, stalagmite-laden, cave tunnel sharp turn, Tidal story... I just knew that I knew how book 2 was going to play out. If I was a racehorse, please, do not bet on me - not a sure thing... However, all is not lost, it just means Nicolle has got secret compartments up her sleeves and we are not privy to them. Yes!! Bring on the surprises... (psst... one surprise has tentacles...).
Kris
Whiskey & Wit Book Reviews
TKTSM is about losing yourself, about losing your way, and then having the courage to change and find your way back. It sounds somewhat deep for a mermaid fantasy, but this author absolutely has her ink-stained fingers on the pulse of human nature. She recognizes that heroes and heroines don't always just pick the right door. They sometimes get so far from the light that leading by example is on hiatus. Readers may wish to interview new candidates for the mains because there is now disappointment for their utter lack of willpower - but then (I hope anyway) that Tidal fans realize Kristy Nicolle has humanized her characters to an uncomfortable degree. Most readers use books as an escape from real life - this author throws real life in our faces and gifts any naysayer with her middle finger. Real-life is messy. Real-life men and women aren't always strong, and they sure as $h*t don't make perfect decisions all the time. Is this where I mention The Kiss That Saved Me is extraordinary? Okay... it's extraordinary.
Btw - I have The Kiss That Changed Me on standby🧜♂️🧜♀️
*Note - The tequila scene... Four score and seven years ago, I too drank of this poison. And from that day to this, I am oft beleaguered by regurgitation and ponderings of past mistakes... sooo... thanks for that KN.
*Note - TKTSM has an especially off-road, path less traveled, stalagmite-laden, cave tunnel sharp turn, Tidal story... I just knew that I knew how book 2 was going to play out. If I was a racehorse, please, do not bet on me - not a sure thing... However, all is not lost, it just means Nicolle has got secret compartments up her sleeves and we are not privy to them. Yes!! Bring on the surprises... (psst... one surprise has tentacles...).
Kris
Whiskey & Wit Book Reviews
December 31, 2017
Another amazing mermaid tale from the great Kristy Nicolle!
The first book in this series took the time to set the stage, going into great detail about what things were like and how they were supposed to look. That gave THIS story the chance to jump right into things and take you on another amazing ride.
I can't even begin to tell you the slew of emotions I felt while reading this story. There were times I was verbally cussing out my kindle or actually found myself wanting to cry. It's hard not to become attached to these characters, to feel what they are feeling. It's like you are going on this incredible journey with them and experiencing everything they are.
Again we follow Callie and Orion as they continue their journey and try to find their place among the Mer. Decisions were made, feelings were hurt, and there is a betrayal that I just DID NOT see coming at all. It's hard for me to summarize the story any more than that without giving things away but I can say that more pieces of the puzzle begin to fall into place and things start to make a whole lot of sense.
In comparison to the other books I have read recently, this author has her own, unique writing style. Now, I'm not saying that's a bad thing at all, in fact, I love it. While a lot of authors I have read recently don't set the stage as much, allowing you to kind of picture things in your head the way YOU want to, Ms. Nicolle goes into great detail about how things look and I think that's perfect for this kind of story. There aren't many books, at least that I have found, written about mermaids, so it's not easy to get a clear picture when imagining how they live or where they live, for that matter.
This series is incredible. The books are a little longer than the usual books I read, so it does take me a little longer to finish them, but I am enjoying this ride immensely and I can't wait to begin book 3!
Definitely 5 out of 5 stars!
The first book in this series took the time to set the stage, going into great detail about what things were like and how they were supposed to look. That gave THIS story the chance to jump right into things and take you on another amazing ride.
I can't even begin to tell you the slew of emotions I felt while reading this story. There were times I was verbally cussing out my kindle or actually found myself wanting to cry. It's hard not to become attached to these characters, to feel what they are feeling. It's like you are going on this incredible journey with them and experiencing everything they are.
Again we follow Callie and Orion as they continue their journey and try to find their place among the Mer. Decisions were made, feelings were hurt, and there is a betrayal that I just DID NOT see coming at all. It's hard for me to summarize the story any more than that without giving things away but I can say that more pieces of the puzzle begin to fall into place and things start to make a whole lot of sense.
In comparison to the other books I have read recently, this author has her own, unique writing style. Now, I'm not saying that's a bad thing at all, in fact, I love it. While a lot of authors I have read recently don't set the stage as much, allowing you to kind of picture things in your head the way YOU want to, Ms. Nicolle goes into great detail about how things look and I think that's perfect for this kind of story. There aren't many books, at least that I have found, written about mermaids, so it's not easy to get a clear picture when imagining how they live or where they live, for that matter.
This series is incredible. The books are a little longer than the usual books I read, so it does take me a little longer to finish them, but I am enjoying this ride immensely and I can't wait to begin book 3!
Definitely 5 out of 5 stars!
June 29, 2016
Romance and Fantasy for Cosmopolitan Girls
Sono davvero lieta di potervi presentare il secondo capitolo di questa serie fantasy "The Tidal Kiss."
Mi sono iscritta per caso al blog tour del primo volume solo perché ho un debole per i fantasy, specialmente se hanno per protagoniste le sirene. Sono stata fortunata perché ho avuto modo di conoscere una nuova talentuosa scrittrice e leggere una storia davvero emozionante.
In questa serie c'è tutta la magia de "in fondo al mar" che potete immaginare: sirene, tritoni, città sommerse, segreti, nemici, Dei del mare. Reso l'idea ?
Il secondo volume riprende da dove avevamo lasciato Callie e Orion, quindi mi vedo costretta a fare dei piccoli spoiler, ma farò la brava!
Orion è sconvolto per via di due eventi sconcertanti: la morte del padre Atlas e della sua amata Callie. Ma, dove Callie è tornata in vita grazie a una particolare magia della sorella, il padre ha compiuto il suo destino. Adesso tocca al figlio compiere il proprio.
She did not want patience, for she was the speed of light. Nor a gentleman for she was coarser than volvanic sand What she wanted was to be free. Free to die. To martyr herself in the name of love.
Atlas era il re della Occulta Mirium, la ricca città sommersa dove vivono sirene e tritoni. Con il posto vacante, serve un capo che governi il popolo e lo prepari all'imminente guerra contro i Psiren, i nemici storici.
Piccola postilla : Psiren sono sirene e tritoni che aborrano la vita sfarzosa dell'Occulta Mirium e vogliono riprendere la loro supremazia uccidendo i devoti ad Atargatis ( la dea del Mare madre delle creature marine ) e gli esseri umani. Il loro aspetto fisico è deformato dall'oscurità che alberga nella loro anima rendendoli oscuri, dagli occhi fino all'ultima pinna.
Spaventato da cotanta responsabilità, devastato dalla perdita del padre e terrorizzato a morte di riperdere la sua anima gemella, cercata in lungo e in largo per più di 500 anni, Orion trascina Callie nel loro covo segreto in superficie, per una fuga d'amore ( solo durante la luna piena tornano ad avere le gambe e possono amarsi nel modo che tutti quanti conosciamo! ).
Orion sfoga la sua frustrazione, la sofferenza e la paura nel sesso perdendo così tutta l'intimità fino a quel momento conquistata con la sua amata. Callie prova ad avere pazienza stando al suo fianco, pur sapendo che quello non è il modo migliore per fronteggiare il futuro che li attende; soffoca ogni senso di ribellione permettendo alla rabbia e all'oscurità di farsi strada nel suo cuore
The seed of a shadow behind my aquamarine eyes fades as quickly as it came.
Con la corona sulla testa, Orion si fa prendere dalla paura di sbagliare, e mal consigliato da qualcuno di cui si fida, allontanerà Callie, che si rifugerà dalla parte nemica. La frattura che li separa è talmente profonda che sarà difficile da ricucire.
La trama è molto fitta di dettagli, descrizioni e personaggi. Mi piacerebbe raccontarvi il bellissimo mondo marino fatto di creature sinuose e magiche, luci fosforescenti e acque pure e ricche di vita. Altrettanto affascinante è il mondo degli Psiren, cupo e complicato, tetro e inquietante. Al posto di code da sirena color acquamarina, ci sono creature tentacolari oscure.
Callie, confusa e spaventata di aver fatto un errore madornale a lasciare per sempre la sua vita da umana, lascia che la rabbia che sta montando dentro di sé, prenda il controllo della sua mente. Si abbandona all'oscurità e fa amicizia con il nemico; messa in gabbia da Orion, tra di loro si sente libera di sbagliare, essere se stessa, invece che una regina e una sirena adolescente, il tutto accaduto in pochi mesi.
Suddenly the thought of finding someone to relate to has a great appeal, even if he is evil.
Orion è disperato per l'allontanamento di Callie, ma allo stesso tempo non crede di aver sbagliato nulla nel loro rapporto, non riesce a vedere la sua parte di responsabilità. La gioia di aver trovato la sua anima gemella dopo tanto cercare, non le fa vedere la ragazza reale oltre la fantasia coltivata per troppo tempo.
Il loro rapporto avrà una brutta battuta d'arresto, entrambi commetteranno errori gravi che mineranno le fondamenta del loro amore appena sbocciato.
Mentre i due protagonisti cercano di far chiarezza su loro stessi, i Psiren sferrano l'attacco pianificato da tempi lontani. Occulta Mirium crolla di fronte alla loro furia e ai sopravvissuti non resta che unirsi e contrastare il nemico una volta per tutte.
Nuovi segreti, perdite devastanti, riconciliazioni mettono le basi per il prossimo e ultimo capitolo di questa saga dal profumo di mare.
Lo stile di questa scrittrice è molto particolare. E' importante sottolineare che il tipo di linguaggio utilizzato è inglese fino all'ultima virgola e che, per quanto possa sembrare assurdo, paradossalmente rende più facile la comprensione. Ambientare una storia in un mondo fantastico, rende indispensabile che la scrittrice abbia una chiara idea della sua struttura, e vi assicuro che ogni dettaglio è stato descritto minuziosamente. Altrettanto approfondita è l'analisi dei protagonisti e dei personaggi secondari principali, la cui importanza è sottolineata dai capitoli in cui la storia è raccontata dal loro punto di vista.
Mi rendo conto che dopo questa mia recensione, molte lettrici alzeranno gli occhi al cielo mormorando "questo libro non fa per me, troppo difficile". Non vi mentirò: il libro è lungo e la trama è fitta di avvenimenti; leggo molti romanzi da diversi anni e mi è capitato di leggere storie anonime e prive di emozioni, in questo caso si legge tutta la passione di questa scrittrice per il suo lavoro e arriva al lettore, che si trova catapultato sott'acqua a piroettare con le sirene. Chi può dire di aver provato la stessa sensazione con un altro romanzo ?
Sono davvero lieta di potervi presentare il secondo capitolo di questa serie fantasy "The Tidal Kiss."
Mi sono iscritta per caso al blog tour del primo volume solo perché ho un debole per i fantasy, specialmente se hanno per protagoniste le sirene. Sono stata fortunata perché ho avuto modo di conoscere una nuova talentuosa scrittrice e leggere una storia davvero emozionante.
In questa serie c'è tutta la magia de "in fondo al mar" che potete immaginare: sirene, tritoni, città sommerse, segreti, nemici, Dei del mare. Reso l'idea ?
Il secondo volume riprende da dove avevamo lasciato Callie e Orion, quindi mi vedo costretta a fare dei piccoli spoiler, ma farò la brava!
Orion è sconvolto per via di due eventi sconcertanti: la morte del padre Atlas e della sua amata Callie. Ma, dove Callie è tornata in vita grazie a una particolare magia della sorella, il padre ha compiuto il suo destino. Adesso tocca al figlio compiere il proprio.
She did not want patience, for she was the speed of light. Nor a gentleman for she was coarser than volvanic sand What she wanted was to be free. Free to die. To martyr herself in the name of love.
Atlas era il re della Occulta Mirium, la ricca città sommersa dove vivono sirene e tritoni. Con il posto vacante, serve un capo che governi il popolo e lo prepari all'imminente guerra contro i Psiren, i nemici storici.
Piccola postilla : Psiren sono sirene e tritoni che aborrano la vita sfarzosa dell'Occulta Mirium e vogliono riprendere la loro supremazia uccidendo i devoti ad Atargatis ( la dea del Mare madre delle creature marine ) e gli esseri umani. Il loro aspetto fisico è deformato dall'oscurità che alberga nella loro anima rendendoli oscuri, dagli occhi fino all'ultima pinna.
Spaventato da cotanta responsabilità, devastato dalla perdita del padre e terrorizzato a morte di riperdere la sua anima gemella, cercata in lungo e in largo per più di 500 anni, Orion trascina Callie nel loro covo segreto in superficie, per una fuga d'amore ( solo durante la luna piena tornano ad avere le gambe e possono amarsi nel modo che tutti quanti conosciamo! ).
Orion sfoga la sua frustrazione, la sofferenza e la paura nel sesso perdendo così tutta l'intimità fino a quel momento conquistata con la sua amata. Callie prova ad avere pazienza stando al suo fianco, pur sapendo che quello non è il modo migliore per fronteggiare il futuro che li attende; soffoca ogni senso di ribellione permettendo alla rabbia e all'oscurità di farsi strada nel suo cuore
The seed of a shadow behind my aquamarine eyes fades as quickly as it came.
Con la corona sulla testa, Orion si fa prendere dalla paura di sbagliare, e mal consigliato da qualcuno di cui si fida, allontanerà Callie, che si rifugerà dalla parte nemica. La frattura che li separa è talmente profonda che sarà difficile da ricucire.
La trama è molto fitta di dettagli, descrizioni e personaggi. Mi piacerebbe raccontarvi il bellissimo mondo marino fatto di creature sinuose e magiche, luci fosforescenti e acque pure e ricche di vita. Altrettanto affascinante è il mondo degli Psiren, cupo e complicato, tetro e inquietante. Al posto di code da sirena color acquamarina, ci sono creature tentacolari oscure.
Callie, confusa e spaventata di aver fatto un errore madornale a lasciare per sempre la sua vita da umana, lascia che la rabbia che sta montando dentro di sé, prenda il controllo della sua mente. Si abbandona all'oscurità e fa amicizia con il nemico; messa in gabbia da Orion, tra di loro si sente libera di sbagliare, essere se stessa, invece che una regina e una sirena adolescente, il tutto accaduto in pochi mesi.
Suddenly the thought of finding someone to relate to has a great appeal, even if he is evil.
Orion è disperato per l'allontanamento di Callie, ma allo stesso tempo non crede di aver sbagliato nulla nel loro rapporto, non riesce a vedere la sua parte di responsabilità. La gioia di aver trovato la sua anima gemella dopo tanto cercare, non le fa vedere la ragazza reale oltre la fantasia coltivata per troppo tempo.
Il loro rapporto avrà una brutta battuta d'arresto, entrambi commetteranno errori gravi che mineranno le fondamenta del loro amore appena sbocciato.
Mentre i due protagonisti cercano di far chiarezza su loro stessi, i Psiren sferrano l'attacco pianificato da tempi lontani. Occulta Mirium crolla di fronte alla loro furia e ai sopravvissuti non resta che unirsi e contrastare il nemico una volta per tutte.
Nuovi segreti, perdite devastanti, riconciliazioni mettono le basi per il prossimo e ultimo capitolo di questa saga dal profumo di mare.
Lo stile di questa scrittrice è molto particolare. E' importante sottolineare che il tipo di linguaggio utilizzato è inglese fino all'ultima virgola e che, per quanto possa sembrare assurdo, paradossalmente rende più facile la comprensione. Ambientare una storia in un mondo fantastico, rende indispensabile che la scrittrice abbia una chiara idea della sua struttura, e vi assicuro che ogni dettaglio è stato descritto minuziosamente. Altrettanto approfondita è l'analisi dei protagonisti e dei personaggi secondari principali, la cui importanza è sottolineata dai capitoli in cui la storia è raccontata dal loro punto di vista.
Mi rendo conto che dopo questa mia recensione, molte lettrici alzeranno gli occhi al cielo mormorando "questo libro non fa per me, troppo difficile". Non vi mentirò: il libro è lungo e la trama è fitta di avvenimenti; leggo molti romanzi da diversi anni e mi è capitato di leggere storie anonime e prive di emozioni, in questo caso si legge tutta la passione di questa scrittrice per il suo lavoro e arriva al lettore, che si trova catapultato sott'acqua a piroettare con le sirene. Chi può dire di aver provato la stessa sensazione con un altro romanzo ?
April 5, 2020
**I received a digital copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.**
I really, really liked this sequel to the trilogy. I thought there was an obvious improvement in the writing and flow of the story. It wasn’t near as wordy and info dumpy as the first book. There was more plot. I was able to read through this one much faster because of that. I really liked the storyline in this one. We got to see more of this mermaid world Nicolle has developed.
We were introduced to a couple new characters. I like Vex. I wasn’t sure about him at first, but he grew on me. I still love that Callie is such a feminist. (When she told Orion off around halfway through the book, I mean, yaaassss! So good.) Callie is still immature, but she has grown from the last book. Orion, on the other hand, I mean, you’d think he was 12. He is the pettiest man I’ve ever read.
The relationship between the two was tested in this book. I actually enjoyed reading their struggle a bit. It made the relationship more realistic. I’m still excited, again, to see how much they either grow or crumble in the next book.
The plot holes I mentioned in my previous review were resolved. I still wonder if her friends come into play again.
Sad things happened in this book. 😦 I don’t want to believe it is true!
I was so excited to learn more about Callie’s father. I really enjoyed that part of this book. It is hard to review sequels without spoilers, but the plot was so good. The way the book ended made me want to immediately download the third book. I can’t wait to get to it!
Review also posted here: https://katelynpdickinson.wordpress.c...
I really, really liked this sequel to the trilogy. I thought there was an obvious improvement in the writing and flow of the story. It wasn’t near as wordy and info dumpy as the first book. There was more plot. I was able to read through this one much faster because of that. I really liked the storyline in this one. We got to see more of this mermaid world Nicolle has developed.
We were introduced to a couple new characters. I like Vex. I wasn’t sure about him at first, but he grew on me. I still love that Callie is such a feminist. (When she told Orion off around halfway through the book, I mean, yaaassss! So good.) Callie is still immature, but she has grown from the last book. Orion, on the other hand, I mean, you’d think he was 12. He is the pettiest man I’ve ever read.
The relationship between the two was tested in this book. I actually enjoyed reading their struggle a bit. It made the relationship more realistic. I’m still excited, again, to see how much they either grow or crumble in the next book.
The plot holes I mentioned in my previous review were resolved. I still wonder if her friends come into play again.
Sad things happened in this book. 😦 I don’t want to believe it is true!
I was so excited to learn more about Callie’s father. I really enjoyed that part of this book. It is hard to review sequels without spoilers, but the plot was so good. The way the book ended made me want to immediately download the third book. I can’t wait to get to it!
Review also posted here: https://katelynpdickinson.wordpress.c...
March 13, 2025
The Kiss That Saved Me is book 2 in the Tidal Kiss Trilogy, and wow, do we go on an adventure with the main characters!
In book one, we meet Callie, a typical 18-year-old human teenager and Orion, a 500-year-old merman. The book was a little slower paced as it built the character backstory and how Callie finds herself becoming a mermaid and tethered to Orion's soul. It started the worldbuilding of the Mer and their darker adversaries, the Psirens.
In this book, we see the pace pick up significantly and the world building start to explode into the array of fascinating details related to the world of the Mer, the Psirens, the God's that fueled their existence and some other beings newly introduced. Callie goes through huge growth in this book! For one, she takes a turn on the dark side for a bit, letting us see more of the psirens and their kingdom as she goes through a typical existential teenage breakup with her soul mate. Orion (said soulmate) on the other hand also goes through some hefty character development and becomes less of a petulant manchild and more vulnerable as time goes by post breakup with Callie, learning (and failing) at leading the Mer. We get to see the origins of the Mer and Psirens which is captivating and finally get to learn more about Callie's dad (also a Mer) all while teetering on whether or not Callie and Orion will find themselves drawn back to one another to lead the Mer back to salvation.
Scenes with Azure (Orion's sister) are some of my favourites! She had her own intruguing development throughout the book. There are a lot of emotions overall, and twists between good and evil to keep the flow and pace of this book moving fast. I was hooked! 😉
In book one, we meet Callie, a typical 18-year-old human teenager and Orion, a 500-year-old merman. The book was a little slower paced as it built the character backstory and how Callie finds herself becoming a mermaid and tethered to Orion's soul. It started the worldbuilding of the Mer and their darker adversaries, the Psirens.
In this book, we see the pace pick up significantly and the world building start to explode into the array of fascinating details related to the world of the Mer, the Psirens, the God's that fueled their existence and some other beings newly introduced. Callie goes through huge growth in this book! For one, she takes a turn on the dark side for a bit, letting us see more of the psirens and their kingdom as she goes through a typical existential teenage breakup with her soul mate. Orion (said soulmate) on the other hand also goes through some hefty character development and becomes less of a petulant manchild and more vulnerable as time goes by post breakup with Callie, learning (and failing) at leading the Mer. We get to see the origins of the Mer and Psirens which is captivating and finally get to learn more about Callie's dad (also a Mer) all while teetering on whether or not Callie and Orion will find themselves drawn back to one another to lead the Mer back to salvation.
Scenes with Azure (Orion's sister) are some of my favourites! She had her own intruguing development throughout the book. There are a lot of emotions overall, and twists between good and evil to keep the flow and pace of this book moving fast. I was hooked! 😉
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing me with a review copy of this book!
I have so many thoughts about this next installment in the Tidal Kiss trilogy! I definitely enjoyed this more than the first one, although Orion made me so incredibly angry for the entire book. I really really loved how this book explored how Lowkey messed up what happened to Callie in the first book was and focused on the fallout from her ideal mermaid princess with Prince Charming life kind of crumbling under the stress. The author absolutely stepped up her writing game for this sequel, it was a noticeable improvement from the first one (although the first one wasn’t bad to begin with). She also really stepped up the spice in this one, so don’t go in expecting the same level as the first one. For me personally, Callie was a much more likable protagonist in this one than the first one which I definitely enjoyed. I loved seeing her take control like that and really explore who she is as a person without her relationship. She definitely made some stupid choices but at the end of the day she’s a teenager and who didn’t have a rebellious phase as a teen? I really enjoyed how this book went into depth about the Psirens and took on a darker tone! It also really expanded the lore of this world and I loved that! I also really loved that azure got POV chapters, they really added another dimension to the story and she’s probably my favorite character now. Definitely would recommend picking this one up, even if you weren’t sold on the first of the series!
I have so many thoughts about this next installment in the Tidal Kiss trilogy! I definitely enjoyed this more than the first one, although Orion made me so incredibly angry for the entire book. I really really loved how this book explored how Lowkey messed up what happened to Callie in the first book was and focused on the fallout from her ideal mermaid princess with Prince Charming life kind of crumbling under the stress. The author absolutely stepped up her writing game for this sequel, it was a noticeable improvement from the first one (although the first one wasn’t bad to begin with). She also really stepped up the spice in this one, so don’t go in expecting the same level as the first one. For me personally, Callie was a much more likable protagonist in this one than the first one which I definitely enjoyed. I loved seeing her take control like that and really explore who she is as a person without her relationship. She definitely made some stupid choices but at the end of the day she’s a teenager and who didn’t have a rebellious phase as a teen? I really enjoyed how this book went into depth about the Psirens and took on a darker tone! It also really expanded the lore of this world and I loved that! I also really loved that azure got POV chapters, they really added another dimension to the story and she’s probably my favorite character now. Definitely would recommend picking this one up, even if you weren’t sold on the first of the series!
June 12, 2018
::..Reviewed for Red's Midnight Readers..::
I have given The Kiss That Saved Me 5 rock solid stars for just being E.P.I.C!
This is the second book in The Tidal Kiss Trilogy and picks up shortly after the events of book one. Callie and Orion are dealing with the fallout of those events and the consequences of Callie's actions reach far deeper than anyone could have imagined.
In the second book we see a darker side to Callie, one that makes her dangerous but it's something she needs to go through in order to grow into the person she needs to become, however that doesn't make it any less agonizing to read. My heart was in my mouth the entire time I was reading this book and it was left broken when it looked like her and Orion's relationship was over for good.
There is lots of detail in this book and so much happening that the reader is sucked into this underwater world and their imagination held captive until the very last word, with the author using beautiful imagery to bring her world to life. Kristy Nicolle has such a creative flair, creating such a unique world with awesome characters. In The Kiss That Saved Me, she delivers an action packed story, hitting her stride early on in this novel ensuring that this huge story flows at the right pace in order for the readers to keep up. It was gripping, edgy and intense and I didn't want to put it down.
I can't wait to dive into book three.
I have given The Kiss That Saved Me 5 rock solid stars for just being E.P.I.C!
This is the second book in The Tidal Kiss Trilogy and picks up shortly after the events of book one. Callie and Orion are dealing with the fallout of those events and the consequences of Callie's actions reach far deeper than anyone could have imagined.
In the second book we see a darker side to Callie, one that makes her dangerous but it's something she needs to go through in order to grow into the person she needs to become, however that doesn't make it any less agonizing to read. My heart was in my mouth the entire time I was reading this book and it was left broken when it looked like her and Orion's relationship was over for good.
There is lots of detail in this book and so much happening that the reader is sucked into this underwater world and their imagination held captive until the very last word, with the author using beautiful imagery to bring her world to life. Kristy Nicolle has such a creative flair, creating such a unique world with awesome characters. In The Kiss That Saved Me, she delivers an action packed story, hitting her stride early on in this novel ensuring that this huge story flows at the right pace in order for the readers to keep up. It was gripping, edgy and intense and I didn't want to put it down.
I can't wait to dive into book three.
November 8, 2016
Things have been difficult for our girl Callie. Sure, she's got a second chance at life with the mega hot Orion as her main man, but not even some rock hard abs and a piercing blue eyes can save her when she delves deeper into her new self, which puts the future of an entire race into her hands. Callie is growing into her own and maturing into a true leader. Still, it's more than most teenagers can handle, and while being the rulers of the mermaids sounds like a dream, she and Orion have a bit more on their plates than they were prepared for. It's possible that a new, dark, force is coming into play...one that Callie might give in to.
Once again, I was really pleased with the book as a whole. Nicolle has really given us a second book to sincerely immerse ourselves in. Well, almost literally, as the underwater wold she paints seems positively perfect, as long as we ignore the whole "that group of oceanic baddies is trying to kill the good guys" thing. Wouldn't you for a glorious tail and unending life? Remember, always be yourself, unless you can be a mermaid. Then totally be a mermaid. So, if true love, a thrilling plot, and a captivating wold is your thing, grab a copy of The Kiss that Saved Me now.
Once again, I was really pleased with the book as a whole. Nicolle has really given us a second book to sincerely immerse ourselves in. Well, almost literally, as the underwater wold she paints seems positively perfect, as long as we ignore the whole "that group of oceanic baddies is trying to kill the good guys" thing. Wouldn't you for a glorious tail and unending life? Remember, always be yourself, unless you can be a mermaid. Then totally be a mermaid. So, if true love, a thrilling plot, and a captivating wold is your thing, grab a copy of The Kiss that Saved Me now.
January 5, 2017
After reading book one I couldn't wait to jump into the second one. I have never read a story about Mermaids before and I was pleasantly surprised at just how much I liked the first book. However, the story is not just about Mermaids, this story covers a whole lot more - the good, the bad and the ugly! Love, Loss, treachery, friendship, forgiveness, hatred, and war; a war between good and evil.
The characters are great even the bad ones! I’m not saying I like the bad ones but they stir things up and make things a lot more exciting. It's been quite hard to write this review and I've deleted it so many times as when I start to write about any specific character I can't stop and the last thing I want is to tell you the whole story.
I was on the edge of my seat at times, and felt myself despair at some of the things that were happening. I was saddened, I chuckled, I got cross and happy so I think it's safe to say I got a good few feels while reading this read. I am still on the edge a bit after the ending, so I'm off to read the 3rd book now.
If the para/mythical genre isn't usually your sort of read then I definitely recommend you try this series, it's so well written and had me glued from the start. Another 5 star read.
The characters are great even the bad ones! I’m not saying I like the bad ones but they stir things up and make things a lot more exciting. It's been quite hard to write this review and I've deleted it so many times as when I start to write about any specific character I can't stop and the last thing I want is to tell you the whole story.
I was on the edge of my seat at times, and felt myself despair at some of the things that were happening. I was saddened, I chuckled, I got cross and happy so I think it's safe to say I got a good few feels while reading this read. I am still on the edge a bit after the ending, so I'm off to read the 3rd book now.
If the para/mythical genre isn't usually your sort of read then I definitely recommend you try this series, it's so well written and had me glued from the start. Another 5 star read.
September 12, 2023
In The Kiss That Saved Me, we continue the journey of Callie as she tries to discover herself and come to terms with her new life. After sacrificing herself to save the Mer, her relationship with Orion suffers, rockier than ever. After becoming Queen, she realises that she is no longer Callie - just Orion’s soulmate and a shadow of who she once was. Where will her journey take her?
I honestly don’t know how to sum up this book and do it justice. I. ABSOLUTELY. FREAKING. LOVED. IT! Full of the unexpected, I was gripped through every single second with twists and turns not even Starlet and Azure could predict. My feelings toward Orion were toyed with so much that I started to feel like a yo-yo, flipping between feeling sorry for him and absolutely hating him. Callie had my heart through the whole thing, and at this point, I don’t think she can do anything wrong.
At 426 pages, this took me just under 7 hours to read. Highly recommend it to any fantasy lover. There are some violent and mature scenes, so please make sure you are okay with reading this as it is a lot more detailed than the first book.
I received a free e-copy of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
9/10
I honestly don’t know how to sum up this book and do it justice. I. ABSOLUTELY. FREAKING. LOVED. IT! Full of the unexpected, I was gripped through every single second with twists and turns not even Starlet and Azure could predict. My feelings toward Orion were toyed with so much that I started to feel like a yo-yo, flipping between feeling sorry for him and absolutely hating him. Callie had my heart through the whole thing, and at this point, I don’t think she can do anything wrong.
At 426 pages, this took me just under 7 hours to read. Highly recommend it to any fantasy lover. There are some violent and mature scenes, so please make sure you are okay with reading this as it is a lot more detailed than the first book.
I received a free e-copy of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
9/10
April 12, 2025
This book definitely pulled me in a lot quicker then book one did and honestly I feel like it showcased several different ways people can deal with traumatic events or grief which was interesting to see in the shifting view points. Callie getting to explore her anger and trauma about everything that’s happened to her up until this point, as well as really come to terms with what she needs/wants from Orion and what she needs to do to be a good leader for the mer was amazing to read (also Callie that’s can actually defend herself and be her badass self? Sign me up!). I also really liked to get to know more about the psriens and how their culture works and what they believe they’re fighting for (call me crazy but I said from book one that I was going to like at least a couple of them and I do adore Vex and Azure they’re honestly my favorite characters) I’m not going to lie. Orion did piss me off almost the entire book until he got his act together at the end but I’m really looking for him to follow through with his character development in book three and and I can’t wait to read the conclusion to this trilogy 💜💜
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2018
The Kiss That Saved Me is a marvelous continuation from The Kiss That Killed Me. Callie is crowned Queen and has to deal with all the responsibilities that come with the title. All the while trying to figure out who she is now. It definitely puts a strain on her relationship with Orion. And speaking of, he's so damn swoon worthy. I love their dynamic. While crazy stuff happens, they actually see through their issues, and come out better for it. Azure and Starlet, that was heartbreaking. And the same with Azure, she isn't dark, it's just a part of her. I love that notion. And Vex, ah, what can I say of that sly fkr? I love him but then I hate him. So to wrap this up, this is a fascinating, colorful-sometimes dark, world that the author has created and it really makes me want to jump in the ocean and find Callie. No, I'm just playing. Seriously though, I'm a bit obsessed. This gorgeous installment is as dark, intense, and magical as the first and sets up for the final book oh so lovely. A reader gets invested, that's why you should read this book series.
June 29, 2018
I went straight into this book from book one and again I just could not get enough. Seeing Callie grow and develop from an awkward teenager into a warrior and queen is really something. Her progression through the story sees her make mistakes and run away from them, I felt the frustration that Orion felt but I could also empathize with Callie, having to adjust not only to mer life but also to life as a queen.
Once again the backdrop to the story is described beautifully. The author puts such detail into her work so that you don't have to question or wonder how things work in an under the sea world.
This story has light and shade, secrets and lies and a journey of self discovery that is nowhere near over. I cant wait to escape to the sea again.
Once again the backdrop to the story is described beautifully. The author puts such detail into her work so that you don't have to question or wonder how things work in an under the sea world.
This story has light and shade, secrets and lies and a journey of self discovery that is nowhere near over. I cant wait to escape to the sea again.
December 30, 2023
Orion and Callie return with their story and all the ups and downs they will face in the book after such devastation in book one. The first half of the book was on too detailed emotions from all the characters whose POVs we can see and the second half was full of action and strategising and another devastation was waiting to happen.
I liked how Kristy moulded the plot to keep it interesting and mysterious. What I didn’t like is the path Callie took in her darkness but I guess the story justifies it by the end of the book. I am excited to see their journey and what it will all entail in the future of Mer. It’s a mysterious ride and will be very informative too.
I liked how Kristy moulded the plot to keep it interesting and mysterious. What I didn’t like is the path Callie took in her darkness but I guess the story justifies it by the end of the book. I am excited to see their journey and what it will all entail in the future of Mer. It’s a mysterious ride and will be very informative too.
March 20, 2025
Even as the story goes into book two, I'm still having trouble. Orion and Callie now have to take up royal duties and Orion is still treating Callie like she doesn't have to worry about the issues at hand. Especially now that Callie has already died once for the Mer. Callie is acting like a brat and can't stand how Orion is treating her, but instead of talking, she runs. She runs right into the hands of the enemy. But there is a darkness inside of her that has a hand in pushing her that way. Can Callie fight the darkness and find her way back to Orion in time to save her new home and her people?
October 23, 2023
The sequel to The Kiss that Killed Me didn’t disappoint! This book has a lot of action, spice, a proposal gone wrong and even some major character deaths. Plus the reveal of Callie’s dad?
We continue to see Callie grow into an independent woman. Orion has difficulty with that. I did find him a little more whiny in this book. However by the end I think he had a breakthrough.
There is a couple of plot twists in the second book of the series.
Overall I thought it was a great second book. Can’t wait to finish out with the 3rd!
We continue to see Callie grow into an independent woman. Orion has difficulty with that. I did find him a little more whiny in this book. However by the end I think he had a breakthrough.
There is a couple of plot twists in the second book of the series.
Overall I thought it was a great second book. Can’t wait to finish out with the 3rd!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2024
We are back with Callie who has been through so much and discovered so much and is in a bit of a turmoil as to how to handle it all especially when Orion’s different views and perspectives as to how they should be differ and are a little more old fashioned. Things take a darker turn as we follow Callie down a different path of self discovery and meet new bad boy characters. Exciting, thrilling and utterly captivating, the author has a way of weaving her magic and pulling you under until you never want to leave. Can’t wait to read book three!
August 6, 2024
Orion really has me out here trying to not fight a fictional man. I am thoroughly glad he got over himself though by the end and redeemed himself. Also, I would have freaked out if I was in his shoes and Callie what he did, so I will give him that at least.
I loved getting to see more of Azure in this one! And getting to watch Callie really come into herself and her powers. I keep forgetting that she's only 18 because she seems to handle everything really well! Can't wait to continue on this adventure with the crew as they travel the oceans!
I loved getting to see more of Azure in this one! And getting to watch Callie really come into herself and her powers. I keep forgetting that she's only 18 because she seems to handle everything really well! Can't wait to continue on this adventure with the crew as they travel the oceans!
March 5, 2025
Where the first book in the series could pass for YA, this one is quite spicy, turning the series NA 18+ From practically the first page. A switch has also been flipped in Callie. She returns with darkness in her yet completely unaware of it. She fights against anything she perceives as a restraint. She will not be held back. This throws a wedge into her relationship with Orion. She seeks answers elsewhere. Will there be an HEA? I can't wait to see what happens in the final book of this trilogy.
August 8, 2017
NARWHAL RIDERS!!!!!! and the book that made Orion discover that the world didn't revolve around his bloody hurt ego...I really loved this book because it had a crap ton of character development like I mean Callie did her stupid things, Orion stopped whining like lil' bish and Saturnus proved me right. Azure is still badass and I like her.
July 17, 2018
Book 2 picks up after four months have passed. The characters are coming together so nice in this story even tho there might be some that I just want to reach thru the pages and throat punch really hard. Callie is an awesome character that I can see a little of her in me and I think this is what makes the me so drawn to this story.
June 30, 2021
I adore these characters and had a really hard time putting the book down. It has so many twists and turns that I was left wondering what would happen in the next chapter. There are so many emotions throughout the experience of everything the characters are dealing with. The writing just continues to flow and you can tell the amount of work and passion that went into writing these.
April 2, 2025
I loved the detail of the story. book one had me hooked and I couldn’t wait to start book 2 and I just couldn’t put it down. Every character was written with care and detail and every character had a purpose to the story. The “villains” stirring thr pot. I was on the edge of my seat barely able to turn the page I couldn’t get through quick enough
July 16, 2025
This book was great😍 i loved how the story continues and the twists and turns.. sometimes you think you got it all and then *boom* another twist!
With this end i definitely need to read book three and hope for a happy ending 🫣🤗
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I'm going to put my notes while reading together and write a longer review in the next two weeks
With this end i definitely need to read book three and hope for a happy ending 🫣🤗
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I'm going to put my notes while reading together and write a longer review in the next two weeks
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