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Tides #3
Sea and Sand
An impossible diplomatic mission. Dangerously growing magic. A distrustful crew. Can Nile beat back the rising tide of war before it’s too late?
Six months have passed since Princess Nile Greysik changed the course of the Tirik war and earned her place in the Felielle navy . . . or thought she did.
With the war taking a violent new turn, Nile—joined by a cryptic empath named Kyra—sails out to beg support from the isolationist Diante Empire. But with a chauvinistic crew waiting for Nile to fail and even Domenic questioning her authority, one wrong step could strip Nile of her command mid-voyage.
When a terrifying new evil strikes their ship, Nile begins to understand the awful truth about the enemy they’re facing—and this time, not even her wind calling may be enough to save them.
Six months have passed since Princess Nile Greysik changed the course of the Tirik war and earned her place in the Felielle navy . . . or thought she did.
With the war taking a violent new turn, Nile—joined by a cryptic empath named Kyra—sails out to beg support from the isolationist Diante Empire. But with a chauvinistic crew waiting for Nile to fail and even Domenic questioning her authority, one wrong step could strip Nile of her command mid-voyage.
When a terrifying new evil strikes their ship, Nile begins to understand the awful truth about the enemy they’re facing—and this time, not even her wind calling may be enough to save them.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 15, 2018
228 people are currently reading
657 people want to read
About the author
Alex Lidell
93 books1,787 followersAlex Lidell is the Amazon Breakout Novel Awards finalist author of THE CADET OF TILDOR (Penguin) and several Amazon Top 100 Kindle Bestsellers, including the POWER OF FIVE romance series. She is an avid horseback rider who believes in eating dessert first. She writes as both Alex Lidell and A.L. Lidell.
Join Alex's newsletter for news, bonus content and sneak peeks: https://links.alexlidell.com/News
Find out more on Alex's website: www.alexlidell.com
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Find out more on Alex's website: www.alexlidell.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
February 1, 2019
I’ve been a big fan of the Tides series ever since it first released, and it was a thrill to finally dive into book 3. I always love riding along for Nile’s crazy adventures. She’s a heroine I love to root for, even when I sometimes kind of want to strangle her!
I have to say, I was really surprised about where this book began, introducing a brand new character named Kyra. I wasn’t sure I’d be able to get attached to someone new when I was already so invested in Nile . . . but within a few pages, I was captivated by Kyra and her struggles. She’s a very different person from Nile, but she’s equally heroic in her own way. As the story progressed, I came to truly love her. And a fresh point of view infused new life into this wonderful series.
Nile and Domenic continue to spark with lots of romantic tension. As their world gets more complex, so does their relationship . . . and I really enjoyed the intensity between them. I prefer a romance that isn’t too easy, and these two certainly don’t have it easy! Sometimes I wonder how they can ever possibly make it as a couple. But the wondering is what keeps things interesting! I’m very eager to see how they grow as the series progresses.
This book definitely leaves you hungry for more, and I can only HOPE that Alex Lidell means to continue this series soon. It is one of the best in the genre of kickbutt heroine fantasy, with incredible writing, action sequences to leave you breathless, and swoon-worthy romance. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
I have to say, I was really surprised about where this book began, introducing a brand new character named Kyra. I wasn’t sure I’d be able to get attached to someone new when I was already so invested in Nile . . . but within a few pages, I was captivated by Kyra and her struggles. She’s a very different person from Nile, but she’s equally heroic in her own way. As the story progressed, I came to truly love her. And a fresh point of view infused new life into this wonderful series.
Nile and Domenic continue to spark with lots of romantic tension. As their world gets more complex, so does their relationship . . . and I really enjoyed the intensity between them. I prefer a romance that isn’t too easy, and these two certainly don’t have it easy! Sometimes I wonder how they can ever possibly make it as a couple. But the wondering is what keeps things interesting! I’m very eager to see how they grow as the series progresses.
This book definitely leaves you hungry for more, and I can only HOPE that Alex Lidell means to continue this series soon. It is one of the best in the genre of kickbutt heroine fantasy, with incredible writing, action sequences to leave you breathless, and swoon-worthy romance. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
January 14, 2022
EXCUSE ME??? IT CAN'T END LIKE THIS, IT JUST CAN'T. WHY ISN'T BOOK FOUR OUT YET? I'M SUFFERING.
January 26, 2018
To see more reviews, considering taking a peek at my first in series YA book blog here
4.5 stars
I'm so happy I received an ARC of this book. Lidell's Tide series has become one of my most series this year and last. I look forward to every time a new book Tides comes out. It is equally frrustrating and endearing how Nile listens to no one but her own mind. Sometimes her decisions are sound and other times...well, maybe she should have discussed her plans.
We not only get Nile's POV in the third book, but a new character named Kyra is introduced.
At first I could not understand why on Earth Lidell had inserted this weak nonsensical character. But, I was astray in my thinking. Kyra is not weak,she is just not Nile. Kyra is essential to Nile's journey to secure allies and taste the atmosphere, if you will.
Now, you're all probably wondering about Domenic and Nile, yes? I was disappointed by both their friendship and relationship in the third book. Things do get tense and their relationship does change and take on a more urgent tone that comes out of necessity and comfort rather than from a place of love as the plot thickens and things get rough. Neither of them has the ability to stand down and be the other's shadow. No words are held back and you will feel the harsh sting of their fights and hurt as if it were your own. After three books of this going back and fourth and still not learning to compromise, I desperately hope they find a way to do so or submit to different domains because this constant fighting by need for dominance and the resulting anger and silence is getting old now. Book 4 needs some resolve and change in attitude, because neither one of them has grown to mature in their relationship even a little bit. For this, an entire half star is deduced.
Overall a solid 3rd book that brings about new challenges where trust between Nile's crew is more important than ever if they are to succeed. Things take a turn for the worst and she has to find a way to salvage the situation, all while war is looming and success depends on her shoulders.
4.5 stars
I'm so happy I received an ARC of this book. Lidell's Tide series has become one of my most series this year and last. I look forward to every time a new book Tides comes out. It is equally frrustrating and endearing how Nile listens to no one but her own mind. Sometimes her decisions are sound and other times...well, maybe she should have discussed her plans.
We not only get Nile's POV in the third book, but a new character named Kyra is introduced.
At first I could not understand why on Earth Lidell had inserted this weak nonsensical character. But, I was astray in my thinking. Kyra is not weak,she is just not Nile. Kyra is essential to Nile's journey to secure allies and taste the atmosphere, if you will.
Now, you're all probably wondering about Domenic and Nile, yes? I was disappointed by both their friendship and relationship in the third book. Things do get tense and their relationship does change and take on a more urgent tone that comes out of necessity and comfort rather than from a place of love as the plot thickens and things get rough. Neither of them has the ability to stand down and be the other's shadow. No words are held back and you will feel the harsh sting of their fights and hurt as if it were your own. After three books of this going back and fourth and still not learning to compromise, I desperately hope they find a way to do so or submit to different domains because this constant fighting by need for dominance and the resulting anger and silence is getting old now. Book 4 needs some resolve and change in attitude, because neither one of them has grown to mature in their relationship even a little bit. For this, an entire half star is deduced.
Overall a solid 3rd book that brings about new challenges where trust between Nile's crew is more important than ever if they are to succeed. Things take a turn for the worst and she has to find a way to salvage the situation, all while war is looming and success depends on her shoulders.
August 20, 2018
Nile and Tam are married and she is officially part of the Filielle navy. As they test her for command, it seems the Filielle's are just as sexists as some of the other kingdoms when it comes to having a woman in the navy. Then the Tirik's seem to change their tactics in the war by using suicide missions. This confuses everyone and makes Nile's mission to forge a permanent alliance with the Diante more important. On the way, they encounter a new enemy flying the Tirik flag and they experience new atrocious behavior in the war. Nile and her friends are captured by these Bevnians and held as "livestock". They must find a way to escape and warn the kingdom of the new threat.
Exciting third book. I especially liked the addition of a new POV - Kyra. Kyra is a fire-caller and an empath. She and Catsper seem to have something brewing and we get to know a little more about him through Kyra's observations. At this point, I'm actually shipping them more than Nile and Dominic. I wish the next book was out already. I hate waiting!
Exciting third book. I especially liked the addition of a new POV - Kyra. Kyra is a fire-caller and an empath. She and Catsper seem to have something brewing and we get to know a little more about him through Kyra's observations. At this point, I'm actually shipping them more than Nile and Dominic. I wish the next book was out already. I hate waiting!
August 21, 2021
Sea and Sand is the third and final installment of the Tides series.
In it, Nile and Tam are married but Nile is also part of the navy too. Things aren't all sunshine and rainbows though because she is constantly tested for her role. It also doesn't help that this kingdom is also filled with a bunch of sexist assholes either.
Besides that, alliances need to be made and betrayal is basically lurking around every corner. On top of all that? Well she is captured, along with her friends, and they need to escape or else. I honestly wasn't expecting her to get captured in this one but it definitely kept things a bit more interesting in my eyes.
I also liked the new romance that came my way as well. Don't get me wrong, I still like Nile and Dominic but Kyra and Catsper were something special. Now if people could stop being sexist that would be great.
In the end, I liked this book and this series was fun to dive into. I'll have to look into another one by Alex soon!
In it, Nile and Tam are married but Nile is also part of the navy too. Things aren't all sunshine and rainbows though because she is constantly tested for her role. It also doesn't help that this kingdom is also filled with a bunch of sexist assholes either.
Besides that, alliances need to be made and betrayal is basically lurking around every corner. On top of all that? Well she is captured, along with her friends, and they need to escape or else. I honestly wasn't expecting her to get captured in this one but it definitely kept things a bit more interesting in my eyes.
I also liked the new romance that came my way as well. Don't get me wrong, I still like Nile and Dominic but Kyra and Catsper were something special. Now if people could stop being sexist that would be great.
In the end, I liked this book and this series was fun to dive into. I'll have to look into another one by Alex soon!
February 1, 2018
This was by far the BEST book in this series! I did not even realize how much I loved it until I found myself daydreaming at work about how I needed to know what was going to happen! Nile and I have a love/hate relationship. She does a lot of things that make me facepalm. However, I greatly admire her courage and passion and loyalty towards her friends and country. Ughhh Domenic, I really want to like him but honestly I cannot stand him though he was starting to irritate me less towards the end! Catsper was always my favorite and I adore him. He is the strong silent friend that I would definitely want on my team in a war. And finally Kyra, the newcomer who I really like, there are definitely some times where she was incredibly ignorant and I wanted to shake some sense into her but she's adorable and I need to know everything about her.
The relationship building was amazing and I need to know how it all goes down not to mention the impending battle that is going to be occurring. I need the next book already!!
*ebook was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
The relationship building was amazing and I need to know how it all goes down not to mention the impending battle that is going to be occurring. I need the next book already!!
*ebook was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
September 25, 2019
No book 4 yet?
I've really enjoyed this series combining pirates, magic and some great characters. Sad to see that there's no book 4 yet.
I've really enjoyed this series combining pirates, magic and some great characters. Sad to see that there's no book 4 yet.
September 4, 2021
All I have to say is: Whyyy is book four not out yet? How long do I have to wait? I need it!
Another thrilling installment, introducing a great addition to the cast of characters as well as a new romance (both of which I quickly became a big fan of), which had me glued to the page all the way through. Though I would have loved to spend a little more time with Tam and Aaron, both of whom I adore, I can only assume we'll be seeing them again in future installments (of which I hope there will be several). I do believe this series is one of my favourite discoveries this year. Also, it must be said: As a fellow adherent of "the wine-drinking school of disaster management", this is now my new favourite phrase.
Another thrilling installment, introducing a great addition to the cast of characters as well as a new romance (both of which I quickly became a big fan of), which had me glued to the page all the way through. Though I would have loved to spend a little more time with Tam and Aaron, both of whom I adore, I can only assume we'll be seeing them again in future installments (of which I hope there will be several). I do believe this series is one of my favourite discoveries this year. Also, it must be said: As a fellow adherent of "the wine-drinking school of disaster management", this is now my new favourite phrase.
January 17, 2018
I loved the first book in this series, but I feel conflicted about this one. A lot of the conflict between the characters in this third installment felt manufactured for the sake of dragging out the series rather than because there was a compelling story to tell. I still read through this VERY quickly. The author does a good job of keeping things moving fast. But about 80% of the way through I could tell that things were not going to wrap up this novel and many of the issues from the second novel (Nile’s role in the navy, her fraught relationship with a certain first mate) did not progress at all by the end of the book.
March 31, 2018
Princess Nile Greysik gets a berth on board a ship in the Felielle navy to fight against the Tirik invaders. It’s her role to secure an alliance with the nationalistic Diante Empire. A disrespectful crew undermines her authority and also looks askance at a mysterious empath who ends up on the ship. They make the harrowing journey and arrive at the port where Nile is given a diplomat’s welcome. No sooner does she greet the Diante representatives than a horrifying enemy attacks. Her special powers might be no match for the powerful mages they have in their grasp. It will take all her ingenuity and that of her closest friends to save them all.
January 7, 2018
Yet another thrilling installment in Alex Lidell's Tides series. Action and drama combine for our heroes with new allies and new, more deadly foes to face.
This author and this series are one of my favorite finds from 2017 and as always when I reach the end I am left wanting the next.
This author and this series are one of my favorite finds from 2017 and as always when I reach the end I am left wanting the next.
June 12, 2018
I got a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
I have no idea where to start.
Her mother and Tam’s mother are going to Shit a brick when they see her hair.
“.....can’t respect you then fear will do.” If that’s what it takes to get a crew to listen to you, or put an asshole of a captain on his ass for being a complete and total duche, so be it.
Catsper finally found a girl that can get under his skin. For someone who had such a horrific home life how can she be so naieve about the world around her? Literally. She was almost torn apart by an angry mob and she felt bad about accidentally hurting the angry drunk who was leading the mob and tried to apologize.
Quinn is now MIA and some new guy (might?) be taking his place.
Dominic and Nile sort of worked things out........ if you don’t include the fact that they almost got corporal punishment during the “working out” part.
I wouldn’t say “It Felt Good.” I would say “It Felt Therapeutic”.
The War Front? EVERYONE got blindsided. Metaphorically blindsided and Literally blinded.
Live or Die? Knowing the options the new enemy is now offering, I’d rather die.
And everyone will be sick to their stomachs when someone does die. I draw the line at Soup.
I have no idea where to start.
Her mother and Tam’s mother are going to Shit a brick when they see her hair.
“.....can’t respect you then fear will do.” If that’s what it takes to get a crew to listen to you, or put an asshole of a captain on his ass for being a complete and total duche, so be it.
Catsper finally found a girl that can get under his skin. For someone who had such a horrific home life how can she be so naieve about the world around her? Literally. She was almost torn apart by an angry mob and she felt bad about accidentally hurting the angry drunk who was leading the mob and tried to apologize.
Quinn is now MIA and some new guy (might?) be taking his place.
Dominic and Nile sort of worked things out........ if you don’t include the fact that they almost got corporal punishment during the “working out” part.
I wouldn’t say “It Felt Good.” I would say “It Felt Therapeutic”.
The War Front? EVERYONE got blindsided. Metaphorically blindsided and Literally blinded.
Live or Die? Knowing the options the new enemy is now offering, I’d rather die.
And everyone will be sick to their stomachs when someone does die. I draw the line at Soup.
February 15, 2018
I loved this book as much as the previous ones. the characters continue to be very interesting, and the fast paced action makes it into a page turner. I was both disappointed and relieved that it was not the last book in the series. looking forward to more.
Highly recommended series.
Highly recommended series.
January 18, 2018
Once again, blown away by that action in this! The writing and the characters have grown. We are introduced to new characters as well. One being a strong female! There can never be enough of those, if you want my opinion. Okay...even if you didn't want it, you got it!
This is an ARC review.
This is an ARC review.
February 19, 2019
Sea and Sand is my very first 2018 obsession. I had no idea when I started this series that it would be both beautiful and torturous. The writing is just incredible but the wait is excruciatingly hard.
Sea and Sand brings new adventures for Nile and gang and intoduces new characters that you'd love, despise and admire. This book is full of intrigue, swoon, danger and thrilling adventures! I never got bored! Nile is as fearless, selfless and bold as ever and I love her! And Dana still melts my heart every. single. time. But dammit. I've never met any two people more frustrating than these two. They were constantly at odds with each other. The chemistry between them is off the charts. Not that that ever stopped them from being maddeningly exasperating. But what I love most (surprisingly) about this book? Catsper. I don't want to spoil much but I will say that I'm super glad he's met his match. I liked him from the first time I met him but now I am absolutely in love! I would love to uncover more of his secrets and get to know the person behind the battle hardened exterior. I feel like he has so much more story to tell. And Kyra? She's an amazing character! She knows nothing about life at sea and swordfighting but she's fearless and kicks ass in her own Kyra way that I've come to admire. She's definitely an interesting addition to the series. I cannot wait to see her character grow in the next books to come.
I love everything about Sea and Sand! The writing was stunning and the story had me ensnared from the start. I love that this was more brutal, gruesome and action packed than the first two. (Not that I wanted everyone dead but well you know...) And is it just me or does anyone else play Pirates of the Caribbean in their heads while reading this? Because I do. And I can just imagine Nile in all her fierce, badass glory.
An absolute must-read!
Savvy?
Sea and Sand brings new adventures for Nile and gang and intoduces new characters that you'd love, despise and admire. This book is full of intrigue, swoon, danger and thrilling adventures! I never got bored! Nile is as fearless, selfless and bold as ever and I love her! And Dana still melts my heart every. single. time. But dammit. I've never met any two people more frustrating than these two. They were constantly at odds with each other. The chemistry between them is off the charts. Not that that ever stopped them from being maddeningly exasperating. But what I love most (surprisingly) about this book? Catsper. I don't want to spoil much but I will say that I'm super glad he's met his match. I liked him from the first time I met him but now I am absolutely in love! I would love to uncover more of his secrets and get to know the person behind the battle hardened exterior. I feel like he has so much more story to tell. And Kyra? She's an amazing character! She knows nothing about life at sea and swordfighting but she's fearless and kicks ass in her own Kyra way that I've come to admire. She's definitely an interesting addition to the series. I cannot wait to see her character grow in the next books to come.
I love everything about Sea and Sand! The writing was stunning and the story had me ensnared from the start. I love that this was more brutal, gruesome and action packed than the first two. (Not that I wanted everyone dead but well you know...) And is it just me or does anyone else play Pirates of the Caribbean in their heads while reading this? Because I do. And I can just imagine Nile in all her fierce, badass glory.
An absolute must-read!
Savvy?
June 28, 2018
I loved the 2nd book so much but I am torn on this one. Indeed, book 2's ending was very hopeful but in book 3, we find ourselves with a terrible situation. Nile is humiliated and undermined all the time and Domenic has imo grown insufferable. (The sexism is addressed in the book.) The first half of the book therefore moved me to the core like few before, to the point where I had to take breaks considering I had a hard time reading without wanting to punch walls. The second half didn't get better but I found myself less enthralled. I just couldn't bear the constant injustice Nile faced or the way she kept falling back in Dom's arms. Moreover, Kyra seemed like an unecessary addition to the story and I found her to be boring/annoying. I also can't fathom how someone like Catsper would fall for someone like her, they seem totally incompatible.
July 24, 2018
Nile and Domenic drive me nuts. I wish they would stop being so volatile towards each other. I wanted to face palm many times on the interactions and poor decisions that some of the characters were making. The blatant sexism in the naval hierarchy is frustrating, but why doesn't Nile learn to play the game better (she should anticipate their views and reactions and try to be smarter instead of plowing ahead with what she knows will piss them off and get her nowhere). Kyra made some stupid decisions too. I couldn't believe she wouldn't want to learn how to defend herself. Yes I will follow some sketchy guy down into a dark room, that will go well...
The highlight for me was Catsper. He is a mystery that is starting to unfold. I think he and Kyra suit each other perhaps more than Nile and Domenic. I loved their chemistry.
This book was action packed and I did enjoy it.
The highlight for me was Catsper. He is a mystery that is starting to unfold. I think he and Kyra suit each other perhaps more than Nile and Domenic. I loved their chemistry.
This book was action packed and I did enjoy it.
September 28, 2018
Is there a final book?
I have loved reading this series and was anxious to find out how it end. Instead the author jumped to another series and I am left wondering if this was it or if she will come back around to finishing it! This series was really good, great character development and kept my interest throughout the series. I am frustrated with the lack of an ending though.
I have loved reading this series and was anxious to find out how it end. Instead the author jumped to another series and I am left wondering if this was it or if she will come back around to finishing it! This series was really good, great character development and kept my interest throughout the series. I am frustrated with the lack of an ending though.
March 31, 2018
3.5
This is the first book in the series where we get two perspectives on the story. Nile annoyed me and took way longer to grow and progress as a character and human than I thought was necessary, but the new POV, Kyra saved the book. Following the story of Kyra & Catsper will keep me reading.
This is the first book in the series where we get two perspectives on the story. Nile annoyed me and took way longer to grow and progress as a character and human than I thought was necessary, but the new POV, Kyra saved the book. Following the story of Kyra & Catsper will keep me reading.
March 25, 2025
I can only say I’m DEVASTATED there isn’t a book 4 yet. How can I go on with my life? Tell me Alex?? How can I??
January 20, 2018
Explosive is a good word for this novel. This is the third book in a series that follows Nile, now a princess as well as a navy lieutenant/captain, and her companions as they fight to save their countries, and really their world, from Tirik invaders.
If you haven't read the first two books in the TIDES series, I strongly recommend doing so before picking up this book. The world Nile lives is is complex, and very well written, so it would be hard to jump into this book without the background knowledge gained from the previous titles. It was even a little hard jumping back in after having read the first two books many months ago; I almost wished I reread them before starting the third. However, once I got a few chapters into the story, everything started coming back and I was able to fully enjoy this newest installment.
Captain Nile Greysik has been invited to sail to the Diante Empire to meet with their leaders, and hopefully convince them to join as allies to fight against Tirik. "Captain" being the operative word. Nile has supposedly earned her spot in the Felielle Navy, but they struggle with placing her in command of a ship, because of course a woman can't command a warship *sarcasm*. But the invitation from Diante forces their hand to an extent, and the Admiralty places Nile in command of the Helix, in name more than in duty. One of the things I love about this book is that it doesn't gloss over the immense challenge it is for Nile to earn the respect of her crew. Sexism is rampant in the Felielle society, especially within the superstitious environment of a sailing vessel, and I like that this doesn't just disappear because she's a skilled sailor. I think it's an important commentary on the struggles women face even today to be taken seriously doing "a man's work."
But we don't have just one badass girl in this group. While I feel like TIDES is largely Nile's story, the book is also told from the viewpoints of several other characters. One such character, new to this book, is a fire-caller named Kyra. I like this character because while she seems much softer and more "traditionally" feminine than Nile, she's strong in her own way. She has principles and she sticks to them as best she can, and her utter focus on nonviolence and caring for the people around her was a breath of fresh air in an otherwise pretty violent book. (Don't worry, it's not violent in a gratuitous or overly-gory way; but a book about war inherently comes with violence.)
One thing that was slightly disappointing in this book was the relationship between Nile and Domenic. I love them as a couple (even though he's kind of a jerk sometimes), and I wanted to see their relationship continue to develop and grow in this story. I didn't really feel that we got that in this installment, but this is a minor gripe in an otherwise fantastic story.
The main conflict Sea and Sand is the on-going battle with Tirik, and the alarmingly changed tactics of the Tirik navy. Their soldiers have suddenly become more aggressive, and have included never-before-seen suicide attacks, which changes the game and makes the Diante Empire's support even more crucial. I won't spoil anything that our protagonists uncover about Tirik and these changes, but I will say that this book has some darker elements than the previous two titles. What's going on with Tirik is pretty twisted, and I like that it's something you can't really see coming until the characters find out for themselves.
All in all, I really loved this book. I am NOT HAPPY about the cliffhanger ending, only because I want to find out what's going to happen immediately, but at least that's the sign of a great story. If you like seafaring adventures with kick-ass girl protagonists (more than one!), you can't go wrong with the TIDES series.
If you haven't read the first two books in the TIDES series, I strongly recommend doing so before picking up this book. The world Nile lives is is complex, and very well written, so it would be hard to jump into this book without the background knowledge gained from the previous titles. It was even a little hard jumping back in after having read the first two books many months ago; I almost wished I reread them before starting the third. However, once I got a few chapters into the story, everything started coming back and I was able to fully enjoy this newest installment.
Captain Nile Greysik has been invited to sail to the Diante Empire to meet with their leaders, and hopefully convince them to join as allies to fight against Tirik. "Captain" being the operative word. Nile has supposedly earned her spot in the Felielle Navy, but they struggle with placing her in command of a ship, because of course a woman can't command a warship *sarcasm*. But the invitation from Diante forces their hand to an extent, and the Admiralty places Nile in command of the Helix, in name more than in duty. One of the things I love about this book is that it doesn't gloss over the immense challenge it is for Nile to earn the respect of her crew. Sexism is rampant in the Felielle society, especially within the superstitious environment of a sailing vessel, and I like that this doesn't just disappear because she's a skilled sailor. I think it's an important commentary on the struggles women face even today to be taken seriously doing "a man's work."
But we don't have just one badass girl in this group. While I feel like TIDES is largely Nile's story, the book is also told from the viewpoints of several other characters. One such character, new to this book, is a fire-caller named Kyra. I like this character because while she seems much softer and more "traditionally" feminine than Nile, she's strong in her own way. She has principles and she sticks to them as best she can, and her utter focus on nonviolence and caring for the people around her was a breath of fresh air in an otherwise pretty violent book. (Don't worry, it's not violent in a gratuitous or overly-gory way; but a book about war inherently comes with violence.)
One thing that was slightly disappointing in this book was the relationship between Nile and Domenic. I love them as a couple (even though he's kind of a jerk sometimes), and I wanted to see their relationship continue to develop and grow in this story. I didn't really feel that we got that in this installment, but this is a minor gripe in an otherwise fantastic story.
The main conflict Sea and Sand is the on-going battle with Tirik, and the alarmingly changed tactics of the Tirik navy. Their soldiers have suddenly become more aggressive, and have included never-before-seen suicide attacks, which changes the game and makes the Diante Empire's support even more crucial. I won't spoil anything that our protagonists uncover about Tirik and these changes, but I will say that this book has some darker elements than the previous two titles. What's going on with Tirik is pretty twisted, and I like that it's something you can't really see coming until the characters find out for themselves.
All in all, I really loved this book. I am NOT HAPPY about the cliffhanger ending, only because I want to find out what's going to happen immediately, but at least that's the sign of a great story. If you like seafaring adventures with kick-ass girl protagonists (more than one!), you can't go wrong with the TIDES series.
March 11, 2018
Sea and Sand continues the tumultuous adventure of Princess Nile Greysik. Much like its predecessors, it includes cannons, magic, and Nile hatching crazy schemes to the chagrin of superiors and subordinates alike.
One of the strengths of this book is the addition of co-narrator Kyra (unrelated, but this is the 3rd book I've read with a Kyra in as many weeks). She quickly joins the main squad in terms of depth of character and giving emotional weight to the story. Her part of the narration offers a balance to Nile's fast-paced descriptions of ship life and her inner struggles.
Speaking of struggles: as hinted in the book description, Nile and Domenic continue to butt heads. However, there is growth and resolution so perhaps there's hope.
Tamiath receives a disappointing amount of page time, and most of this is in the beginning exposition. This is understandable, as he is not a naval officer, but we spent so much time getting to know him at the end of the last book that I missed his presence in this one.
Overall, Sea and Sand is a solid read. The beginning was slow, and it made me start to fear for all the things I really wished would not happen (Nile's obstinacy, manipulation through secret revealing, unnecessary angst because of miscommunication), but these did not come to pass. By the second half I was riveted, for the action but also for the development in Nile and Kyra.
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Received book from giveaway.
One of the strengths of this book is the addition of co-narrator Kyra (unrelated, but this is the 3rd book I've read with a Kyra in as many weeks). She quickly joins the main squad in terms of depth of character and giving emotional weight to the story. Her part of the narration offers a balance to Nile's fast-paced descriptions of ship life and her inner struggles.
Speaking of struggles: as hinted in the book description, Nile and Domenic continue to butt heads. However, there is growth and resolution so perhaps there's hope.
Tamiath receives a disappointing amount of page time, and most of this is in the beginning exposition. This is understandable, as he is not a naval officer, but we spent so much time getting to know him at the end of the last book that I missed his presence in this one.
Overall, Sea and Sand is a solid read. The beginning was slow, and it made me start to fear for all the things I really wished would not happen (Nile's obstinacy, manipulation through secret revealing, unnecessary angst because of miscommunication), but these did not come to pass. By the second half I was riveted, for the action but also for the development in Nile and Kyra.
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Received book from giveaway.
April 14, 2021
Worried, indifferent, confused?
What... what just happened?
I’m so confused right now. It starts off with tension and an issue of lack of trusts all around. Then a journey set on lies and setbacks. Then a first climax of terror that doesn’t ever really get to the gruesome stuff cause God forbid anything terrifying really occur, right? And then the second climax followed and it just... ended. I was under the impression this was a trilogy and yet I’m on this cliff hanging with no sight of a fourth book (unless the new “series” is the spin-off). My review doesn’t stem from a lack of a fourth book’s advertisement. It stems from the book basically being about our people finding a new enemy and a turn in the plot and war. I feel like it could’ve been longer, or more should’ve happened so that it didn’t feel so... I don’t know. On one hand a lot did happen, mentally, but physically? Aside from a journey and a meeting of philosophical swords, not much to drive the story onward. This feels more like a detour trip down a little river before we can continue down the highway leading to the sea.
If the story really does end here, my review is less than three stars. If it continues, it remains at three.
What... what just happened?
I’m so confused right now. It starts off with tension and an issue of lack of trusts all around. Then a journey set on lies and setbacks. Then a first climax of terror that doesn’t ever really get to the gruesome stuff cause God forbid anything terrifying really occur, right? And then the second climax followed and it just... ended. I was under the impression this was a trilogy and yet I’m on this cliff hanging with no sight of a fourth book (unless the new “series” is the spin-off). My review doesn’t stem from a lack of a fourth book’s advertisement. It stems from the book basically being about our people finding a new enemy and a turn in the plot and war. I feel like it could’ve been longer, or more should’ve happened so that it didn’t feel so... I don’t know. On one hand a lot did happen, mentally, but physically? Aside from a journey and a meeting of philosophical swords, not much to drive the story onward. This feels more like a detour trip down a little river before we can continue down the highway leading to the sea.
If the story really does end here, my review is less than three stars. If it continues, it remains at three.
January 16, 2018
Oh My Goodness!! I have been devouring the Tides series by Alex Lidell, and loving every installment. I read "Sea and Sand" cover to cover in a single day. It was thrilling and unexpected and I simply couldn't stop until I was done! I have read a lot of book over the years and I can often anticipate where an author is going, but not this time! Alex takes the reader, and her brilliant heroine Nile Greysik to a place I never anticipated in this amazing adventure! I engaged emotionally with this book over and over! I thought it was to be the final installment in the series, but when I reached the end and found it was far from the end I was elated to think there would be more and in the next breath irritated to think I will have to wait! Alex can't write the next book fast enough for my liking, I can tell you. If you like adventure, especially seafaring adventure, and you haven't started this series yet the What Are You Waiting For?
January 7, 2018
“... a seafaring adventure of duty, love, magic, and a princess’s quest to protect her kingdom on her own terms.”
I have to admit it: I adore Princess Nile Greysik. She’s the perfect blend of a sailing age Honor Harrington (for those who don’t recognize the reference please trust me that it’s high praise) and hidden mage desperately trying to protect her homeland even though it despised magic, while earning her place in a chauvinistic Felielle navy that doesn’t really want her to succeed. She may hide behind the excuse of being God blessed but she knows the fear of magic that still pervades - just as she’s finding that the Tirik war is getting worse and worse. Setting sail to the isolationist Diante Empire to beg for their support in the face of all of this may seem an impossible task but I’d not bet against Nile.
Highly entertaining - and supremely addictive.
Highly recommended.
I have to admit it: I adore Princess Nile Greysik. She’s the perfect blend of a sailing age Honor Harrington (for those who don’t recognize the reference please trust me that it’s high praise) and hidden mage desperately trying to protect her homeland even though it despised magic, while earning her place in a chauvinistic Felielle navy that doesn’t really want her to succeed. She may hide behind the excuse of being God blessed but she knows the fear of magic that still pervades - just as she’s finding that the Tirik war is getting worse and worse. Setting sail to the isolationist Diante Empire to beg for their support in the face of all of this may seem an impossible task but I’d not bet against Nile.
Highly entertaining - and supremely addictive.
Highly recommended.
February 23, 2019
I loved this book, just as much as the rest in this series. Like some others, I also wasnt sure what to make of the new character. Honestly I was kinda annoyed with her until about half way through the book, and now she's alright. Not my favorite character but I can see how she balances out the rest of the crew and in particular Catsper (yes, yes, yes) who we get to understand more of because of her. And Ill go through her for more of him.
Nile and Dana are still strained, and then not, and confusing. I have no idea how they can be together but I am dying to find out if/how they do.
There are too many parts of this story that I want (NEED) answers to that i dont have the patience to write them all. But a few are Quinn, the new Tirik crew guy, outcome for the Gifted, and the war....and obviously the relationships panning out.
Nile and Dana are still strained, and then not, and confusing. I have no idea how they can be together but I am dying to find out if/how they do.
There are too many parts of this story that I want (NEED) answers to that i dont have the patience to write them all. But a few are Quinn, the new Tirik crew guy, outcome for the Gifted, and the war....and obviously the relationships panning out.
August 4, 2021
After finishing this book I realized that this will probably be an unfinished series, or at least be a long time until it continues. Luckily this book ends on a promising/hopeful note instead of a cliffhanger.
This book really beats you down, as any YA fantasy does before the big finale or turning point in the series. The characters face more challenges and defeats. Nile and Dom break up (sort of), and by the end they learn to work together again (sort of).
The end of the book promises a new path forward, where are characters learn to find their own place aboard the new ship and work together.
Let’s hope that we also get some resolution between Dom and Nile. We know and they know that they love each other, but it would still be great to see them have that conversation and work through the trust issues some more.
This book really beats you down, as any YA fantasy does before the big finale or turning point in the series. The characters face more challenges and defeats. Nile and Dom break up (sort of), and by the end they learn to work together again (sort of).
The end of the book promises a new path forward, where are characters learn to find their own place aboard the new ship and work together.
Let’s hope that we also get some resolution between Dom and Nile. We know and they know that they love each other, but it would still be great to see them have that conversation and work through the trust issues some more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2018
With out spoiling, it’s fair to say Lidell continues the best qualities of her Tides series with ‘Sea And Sand.’
First, she continues the story of Ash, a young woman juggling royal duties, naval aspirations, and trying to manage her complicated marriage and relationship to her true love.
Next, besides the core characters, Lidell adds Kyra, a woman with little interest in the ongoing wars yet finds herself part of events larger than she could have expected.
Finally, when the book goes to the unexpected.. damn does it go there.
If new to the series, I recommend starting from the beginning. These are brisk, enjoyable reads. But do read them, and enjoy.
First, she continues the story of Ash, a young woman juggling royal duties, naval aspirations, and trying to manage her complicated marriage and relationship to her true love.
Next, besides the core characters, Lidell adds Kyra, a woman with little interest in the ongoing wars yet finds herself part of events larger than she could have expected.
Finally, when the book goes to the unexpected.. damn does it go there.
If new to the series, I recommend starting from the beginning. These are brisk, enjoyable reads. But do read them, and enjoy.
June 1, 2018
Disappointing endings
I am hoping there is a closer. I felt a little mislead in the words 3 book series. Should have looked for the word complete maybe.
I have been interested, but I don’t like soap operas and this is beginning to feel like one. I like to see character growth, and this just seems the same every book. If there was an actual growth in person or relationship that we could see or completion of goal, I wouldn’t feel like I’m reading the same book just with different settings over and over again. It’s well written, but doesn’t seem to say anything. Is there an ending?
I am hoping there is a closer. I felt a little mislead in the words 3 book series. Should have looked for the word complete maybe.
I have been interested, but I don’t like soap operas and this is beginning to feel like one. I like to see character growth, and this just seems the same every book. If there was an actual growth in person or relationship that we could see or completion of goal, I wouldn’t feel like I’m reading the same book just with different settings over and over again. It’s well written, but doesn’t seem to say anything. Is there an ending?
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