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Halcyon Bay #1
Girls of Salt and Sea
"Don't go back to Halcyon Bay."
24-year-old Dell Costa knows nothing of the island where she was born, nor of the distant family that calls it home. For years, she's lived a world away from Halcyon Bay, fiercely protected from the secrets of her past. But when Dell receives notice that her estranged grandmother has died, and her mother falls into a sudden downward spiral, she is determined to figure out why.
Returning to the island one stormy night, Dell resides at her grandparents' seaside estate over a long weekend of funeral proceedings, learning of her family's tragic history and the strange local folklore concerning drowned girls. With the help of a captivating young fisherman, Dell discovers that her childhood home teems with dangers at every turn—some even lurk beneath the crashing waves.
Nothing on Halcyon Bay is as it seems on the surface, and when small town whispers prove to be more than hearsay, Dell finds herself at the center of a dangerous plot with deadly repercussions.
In Girls of Salt and Sea, debut author Natalia Macias Lucia weaves a sultry, atmospheric tale dripping with haunting secrets, electrifying romance, and dark loyalties. Readers will be swept away on a thrilling wave of suspense into a story as intoxicating and mysterious as the sea itself.
24-year-old Dell Costa knows nothing of the island where she was born, nor of the distant family that calls it home. For years, she's lived a world away from Halcyon Bay, fiercely protected from the secrets of her past. But when Dell receives notice that her estranged grandmother has died, and her mother falls into a sudden downward spiral, she is determined to figure out why.
Returning to the island one stormy night, Dell resides at her grandparents' seaside estate over a long weekend of funeral proceedings, learning of her family's tragic history and the strange local folklore concerning drowned girls. With the help of a captivating young fisherman, Dell discovers that her childhood home teems with dangers at every turn—some even lurk beneath the crashing waves.
Nothing on Halcyon Bay is as it seems on the surface, and when small town whispers prove to be more than hearsay, Dell finds herself at the center of a dangerous plot with deadly repercussions.
In Girls of Salt and Sea, debut author Natalia Macias Lucia weaves a sultry, atmospheric tale dripping with haunting secrets, electrifying romance, and dark loyalties. Readers will be swept away on a thrilling wave of suspense into a story as intoxicating and mysterious as the sea itself.
444 pages, Paperback
Published August 26, 2022
About the author
Natalia Macias Lucia
2 books34 followersNatalia Macias Lucia was raised on ghost stories, Cuban food, and sweltering summers in her native South Florida. An avid reader with a lifelong dream of becoming a novelist, Natalia earned a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of Miami. When not dreaming up new book ideas, she can often be found by the ocean with her husband, family, and neurotic Jack Russell Terrier. Girls of Salt and Sea is her debut novel and the first book in the Halcyon Bay series. Visit her online at www.nataliamlucia.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
February 17, 2023
4 Sea Glass Stars ⭐️
I am not the typical mystery-adult-contemporary reader but through the powers of the universe, this book found its way to my TBR and was chosen as my next read. Suffice it to say no one is as surprised as me by how much I loved this book and I am super happy that this book crossed my path! I couldn’t put it down and I still can’t stop thinking about how heartbreakingly raw the whole book felt.
This story follows Dell, who returns to Halcyon Bay 20 years later for her estranged grandmother's funeral. Returning to the island for the funeral is just a cover, what Dell seeks is answers to the reasons why her grandmother's death was the catalyst for why her mother has been plagued by numerous episodes leading to her hospitalisation in a Psychiatric Centre. What soon follows is Dell uncovering deep secrets about her family, the Island and the mystery involving the strange drownings of young girls of Halcyon Bay.
The writing in this was hauntingly beautiful, it just felt atmospheric, evocative, and melancholy! It was gritty at times, from an emotional level, but I do think that NML did an amazing job of weaving in the secrets, characters, descriptions, overall plot, and Dell's complicated mental state.
The biggest thing I adored in this was Dell's character. She is not perfect and makes some stupid mistakes but she felt so humanly real. I couldn't blame her for her choices because if I were in her shoes I would have made the same ones. She slowly works through the trauma and heartbreak of her family's lies and deceit, and some of the stuff she has to deal with broke my heart. I appreciated how her difficult emotions and insecurities were conveyed and how she had to learn that first appearances aren't always what they mean.
Hatch was an absolute darling cinnamon roll and the chemistry between him and Dell was next level. Their relationship is not the main focus of the book but it still felt magnanimous, honest, and caring. I loved them together right from the start. The aching realness between the two, while they both work through their shit, was nothing short of stunning!
The mystery kept me riveted, and when I thought I knew where the plot was going or what the next twist would be, I was thrown for a curve ball. Right until the end I was kept on my toes. Something that made me appreciate this story even more is when there were blatant "suspicious" moments or what I believe to be "GIRL, why you going into the creepy basement - get the eff out the house", Dell would recognise these and call them out vs following the overly stereotypical route seen in most B-list Horror Movies.
I am glad that my first step into something out of my comfort zone was this, it had a few reminiscent aspects of books I love but also exposed me to something new that I won't be afraid of picking up more of in the future! If a small town with a history of creepy ghost stories sounds like your perfect cup of tea! Get cosy and read this!
I am not the typical mystery-adult-contemporary reader but through the powers of the universe, this book found its way to my TBR and was chosen as my next read. Suffice it to say no one is as surprised as me by how much I loved this book and I am super happy that this book crossed my path! I couldn’t put it down and I still can’t stop thinking about how heartbreakingly raw the whole book felt.
This story follows Dell, who returns to Halcyon Bay 20 years later for her estranged grandmother's funeral. Returning to the island for the funeral is just a cover, what Dell seeks is answers to the reasons why her grandmother's death was the catalyst for why her mother has been plagued by numerous episodes leading to her hospitalisation in a Psychiatric Centre. What soon follows is Dell uncovering deep secrets about her family, the Island and the mystery involving the strange drownings of young girls of Halcyon Bay.
The writing in this was hauntingly beautiful, it just felt atmospheric, evocative, and melancholy! It was gritty at times, from an emotional level, but I do think that NML did an amazing job of weaving in the secrets, characters, descriptions, overall plot, and Dell's complicated mental state.
The biggest thing I adored in this was Dell's character. She is not perfect and makes some stupid mistakes but she felt so humanly real. I couldn't blame her for her choices because if I were in her shoes I would have made the same ones. She slowly works through the trauma and heartbreak of her family's lies and deceit, and some of the stuff she has to deal with broke my heart. I appreciated how her difficult emotions and insecurities were conveyed and how she had to learn that first appearances aren't always what they mean.
Hatch was an absolute darling cinnamon roll and the chemistry between him and Dell was next level. Their relationship is not the main focus of the book but it still felt magnanimous, honest, and caring. I loved them together right from the start. The aching realness between the two, while they both work through their shit, was nothing short of stunning!
The mystery kept me riveted, and when I thought I knew where the plot was going or what the next twist would be, I was thrown for a curve ball. Right until the end I was kept on my toes. Something that made me appreciate this story even more is when there were blatant "suspicious" moments or what I believe to be "GIRL, why you going into the creepy basement - get the eff out the house", Dell would recognise these and call them out vs following the overly stereotypical route seen in most B-list Horror Movies.
I am glad that my first step into something out of my comfort zone was this, it had a few reminiscent aspects of books I love but also exposed me to something new that I won't be afraid of picking up more of in the future! If a small town with a history of creepy ghost stories sounds like your perfect cup of tea! Get cosy and read this!
May 18, 2022
I wrote it, I love it, and I've read it approximately 378 times.
June 20, 2022
From the first scene I was hooked. Lucia’s mesmerizing prose creates a vibrant world you’ll never want to leave—even when she’s placed you squarely in a rundown dive bar. She has mastered the art of writing in an atmospheric, ethereal style without feeling pretentious.
Her characters leap off the page and dive right into your heart, tugging you along through every clue uncovered, fight endured, and kiss savored.
I yelled at Dell, laughed with Mojo, and cried for Hatch. Oh… and I might want to slap a few people too. Or worse.
Overall a magical debut which is sure to be the first of many enchanting works from this author. Do yourself a favor and head to Halcyon Bay.
Her characters leap off the page and dive right into your heart, tugging you along through every clue uncovered, fight endured, and kiss savored.
I yelled at Dell, laughed with Mojo, and cried for Hatch. Oh… and I might want to slap a few people too. Or worse.
Overall a magical debut which is sure to be the first of many enchanting works from this author. Do yourself a favor and head to Halcyon Bay.
October 31, 2023
I just finished my 2nd reread! It was amazing the wnd time. Now I can start my ARC. I'll have another review soon!
This one is definitely a favorite, and I found a new genre I like, spooky/ghost/mystery/murder/cult/romance. The cover caught my eye on Instagram, and the first chapter got me hooked. It's full of family secrets, hidden truths, and ghosts with a bit of spook. I'm a total chicken, but this was just the right amount for me. The plot is great, and twists I didn't see coming. The characters, Dell and Hatch, are perfect. No complaints, only love for this book!
This one is definitely a favorite, and I found a new genre I like, spooky/ghost/mystery/murder/cult/romance. The cover caught my eye on Instagram, and the first chapter got me hooked. It's full of family secrets, hidden truths, and ghosts with a bit of spook. I'm a total chicken, but this was just the right amount for me. The plot is great, and twists I didn't see coming. The characters, Dell and Hatch, are perfect. No complaints, only love for this book!
September 20, 2023
The easiest five star rating. This book is an astounding debut and I will now be obsessively waiting for book two from Natalia. I loved so many things about this book.
The setting - eerie, mysterious. I felt like I was wrapped up in a blanket of fog trying to figure out the island just like Dell.
Paranormal aspect - Natalia absolutely nailed this part. Ghost story with some hair standing up on the back of your neck moments.
Hatch. Definitely a sucker for a green eyed fisherman.
The mystery aspect. A lot of layers to this mystery and all of them were twisty turny goodness.
Side characters. Loved how all the side characters were written. Even if they weren’t focal points in the main story I found myself loving each one whenever they were on the page.
And my most favorite - Natalia’s prose. WOW. I can’t even say how many sentences I re-read over and over because they were just so beautifully descriptive. Absolutely blown away by her writing.
Needless to say, I cannot wait for more! Definitely recommend!
The setting - eerie, mysterious. I felt like I was wrapped up in a blanket of fog trying to figure out the island just like Dell.
Paranormal aspect - Natalia absolutely nailed this part. Ghost story with some hair standing up on the back of your neck moments.
Hatch. Definitely a sucker for a green eyed fisherman.
The mystery aspect. A lot of layers to this mystery and all of them were twisty turny goodness.
Side characters. Loved how all the side characters were written. Even if they weren’t focal points in the main story I found myself loving each one whenever they were on the page.
And my most favorite - Natalia’s prose. WOW. I can’t even say how many sentences I re-read over and over because they were just so beautifully descriptive. Absolutely blown away by her writing.
Needless to say, I cannot wait for more! Definitely recommend!
January 16, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4
Dell Costa knows next to nothing of the island where she was born. Her mother refuses to talk about her family or her past. Returning to the island one stormy night for her grandmother’s funeral proceedings without her mother’s knowledge, Dell learns of her family's tragic history and the dark, eerie local folklore concerning drowned girls.
Filled with atmospheric, ominous descriptions, this book sucks you into the mystery of the island and the past it seems Del must uncover.
For some reason, Hatch reminds of Hook from the TV show: Once Upon a Time.
There was subtle humour between characters, deeper, authentic connections and a darker past that connects everyone.
Overall, a beautiful story suitable for fans of House of Hollow, Into the Drowning Deep, and any other haunting, nautical, island fantasy.
Dell Costa knows next to nothing of the island where she was born. Her mother refuses to talk about her family or her past. Returning to the island one stormy night for her grandmother’s funeral proceedings without her mother’s knowledge, Dell learns of her family's tragic history and the dark, eerie local folklore concerning drowned girls.
Filled with atmospheric, ominous descriptions, this book sucks you into the mystery of the island and the past it seems Del must uncover.
This place is a world unto itself, encapsulated in nautical, rum-soaked bubble wrap.
For some reason, Hatch reminds of Hook from the TV show: Once Upon a Time.
There was subtle humour between characters, deeper, authentic connections and a darker past that connects everyone.
Overall, a beautiful story suitable for fans of House of Hollow, Into the Drowning Deep, and any other haunting, nautical, island fantasy.
November 20, 2022
I loved everything from the multilayered characters and the eerie island setting to the beautiful descriptions and intriguing plot sprinkled with romance. What a great read!
November 13, 2022
4.5 stars
READ THIS.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I’m not generally a thriller gal. But a friend gave this such a good recommendation I couldn’t help but download it. I actually went in thinking it was a romance (whoops, though there is a romance!!), and after a few chapters and realizing my mistake I was loving it enough that I kept going and I’m glad I did!
The writing was incredible. A debut author who knows how to write and I love it. The only issue I had was some minor pacing things where I thought it slowed down a touch too much here and there.
I loved the murder mystery. It really kept me guessing. And even at the end I was looking like a fish out of water when even more things kept being brought to life. I LOVED IT. I love the way this story was woven. How you had to double check each character wondering who was on what side.
I enjoyed the romance too (and would have loved even more of them). I thought it fit well into the story and they were a couple I wanted to root for. Also meaning, I better get more of them in the next book!!
Any who, really loved this. Highly recommend.
Overall audience notes:
- Thriller
- Language: some strong
- Romance: brief/vague fade to black
- Violence: high
- Trigger/Content Warnings: drowning, suicide, mental illness, physical and weapons violence, physical and emotional abuse, brief remarks about a rumored sexual assault against a child, grief, alcohol and drug use, cults, murder
READ THIS.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I’m not generally a thriller gal. But a friend gave this such a good recommendation I couldn’t help but download it. I actually went in thinking it was a romance (whoops, though there is a romance!!), and after a few chapters and realizing my mistake I was loving it enough that I kept going and I’m glad I did!
The writing was incredible. A debut author who knows how to write and I love it. The only issue I had was some minor pacing things where I thought it slowed down a touch too much here and there.
I loved the murder mystery. It really kept me guessing. And even at the end I was looking like a fish out of water when even more things kept being brought to life. I LOVED IT. I love the way this story was woven. How you had to double check each character wondering who was on what side.
I enjoyed the romance too (and would have loved even more of them). I thought it fit well into the story and they were a couple I wanted to root for. Also meaning, I better get more of them in the next book!!
Any who, really loved this. Highly recommend.
Overall audience notes:
- Thriller
- Language: some strong
- Romance: brief/vague fade to black
- Violence: high
- Trigger/Content Warnings: drowning, suicide, mental illness, physical and weapons violence, physical and emotional abuse, brief remarks about a rumored sexual assault against a child, grief, alcohol and drug use, cults, murder
September 6, 2022
This was one of my most anticipated reads and it did not disappoint! Not only that, but it exceeded every expectation.
The writing in this is simply gorgeous. It's descriptive and atmospheric. It reminded me of the Night Circus. I loved all the sea imagery and the way the author used sea imagery/metaphors throughout it.
The characters are all fascinating. When Dell's family is introduced, I expected them to all act a certain way. I didn't think Mojo would shape up, I thought her relatives would be more like the family in Knives Out. And then Lucia pulled a one-eighty on me and made me re-evaluate everything I thought about them. The relationship between Dell and Palmer especially was really beautiful. It felt very authentic, and despite the fact that they hadn't seen each other in twenty years, they acted just like cousins would. I also loved all the other characters. The island is inhabited by such fascinating people that of course it makes the atmosphere that much more interesting.
The plot is full of twists and turns. It had me gasping and screaming and crying. The ending is an absolutely wild ride and so heartbreaking, but a perfect way to wrap up the mystery in the book.
And then of course, there's Hatch. Such a simp, such a good boy. He's hard not to love. It's hard not to fantasise about exploring a lighthouse with him...if ya know what I mean. I especially love the way the relationship is left at the end of the book. It was satisfying but realistic all at the same time.
Honestly, this book was awesome. Do yourself a favour and pick it up. Meanwhile I'll just sit here impatiently waiting for book 2.
The writing in this is simply gorgeous. It's descriptive and atmospheric. It reminded me of the Night Circus. I loved all the sea imagery and the way the author used sea imagery/metaphors throughout it.
The characters are all fascinating. When Dell's family is introduced, I expected them to all act a certain way. I didn't think Mojo would shape up, I thought her relatives would be more like the family in Knives Out. And then Lucia pulled a one-eighty on me and made me re-evaluate everything I thought about them. The relationship between Dell and Palmer especially was really beautiful. It felt very authentic, and despite the fact that they hadn't seen each other in twenty years, they acted just like cousins would. I also loved all the other characters. The island is inhabited by such fascinating people that of course it makes the atmosphere that much more interesting.
The plot is full of twists and turns. It had me gasping and screaming and crying. The ending is an absolutely wild ride and so heartbreaking, but a perfect way to wrap up the mystery in the book.
And then of course, there's Hatch. Such a simp, such a good boy. He's hard not to love. It's hard not to fantasise about exploring a lighthouse with him...if ya know what I mean. I especially love the way the relationship is left at the end of the book. It was satisfying but realistic all at the same time.
Honestly, this book was awesome. Do yourself a favour and pick it up. Meanwhile I'll just sit here impatiently waiting for book 2.
June 8, 2022
Set in an atmospheric world of eerie ghost stories and folklore and quirky characters, Lucia's debut is immersive and addictive from page one. This book is full of layered family secrets, a decades-old mystery, and subtle "ghostly" moments that leave the reader questioning--"What's really happening at Cliffmoor House?" Paired with characters you adore and characters you hate and a swoon-worthy romance, Lucia includes something for everyone.
If you love Agatha Christie mysteries, House of Salt and Sorrows, or any stories full of mystery and touched by the supernatural and eerie, this book is absolutely for you.
If you love Agatha Christie mysteries, House of Salt and Sorrows, or any stories full of mystery and touched by the supernatural and eerie, this book is absolutely for you.
January 1, 2023
I absolutely fell in love with this book and its characters. In fact, I couldn't put it down and read it within a day! There were so many twists and turns that I didn't see coming. I found myself gasping out loud multiple times. Just enough spookiness and plenty of mystery. I can't wait for book two to come out!
June 25, 2023
Family secrets, island mysteries, and a dash of romance
I honestly went into this book with little idea of what to expect other than Bookstagram was raving about it. Based on the cover and title, I was thinking that it would be maybe a bit of a modern day pirate situation…and it was not that at all.
This book is built around family secrets and a cryptic warning from an ailing mother. Tired of the secrecy, Meridel (commonly goes by the name Dell) takes the chance opportunity to see what her parents have been hiding her entire life. What she discovers throughout the book is way more than she expected.
The book starts off right in the middle of some disorienting action…almost like it’s foreshadowing how treacherous Dell’s return to Halycon Bay would be. From there the author takes Dell and the readers on a roller coaster of emotions as the family members and secrets are slowly revealed little by little.
The cast of characters is fairly immense and though it was a bit hard to keep track of names and characters at first, each one is so different in personality and appearance that it became easier quicker than I thought.
The pacing was pretty fast as Dell is constantly learning more information about the island, its secrets, her family, and even herself. Though there are moments where the reader and Dell get a chance to breathe, there is this undercurrent of urgency and the need to figure everything out that propels the story and hooks the reader in.
I can’t think of a single complaint I have about this book.
You may enjoy this book if you love:
🌊 small island town settings
🌊 family secrets
🌊 island/fisherman ghost stories
🌊 mystery with a hint of the paranormal (think a slightly more grown up version of Scooby Doo)
🌊 determined, headstrong female main character
🌊 swoony, flirtatious, yet dependable green-eyed male main character
🌊 comedic relief side character
🌊 romantic subplot (kissing and alluding to other activities but no details)
Looking forward to reading the sequel!
I honestly went into this book with little idea of what to expect other than Bookstagram was raving about it. Based on the cover and title, I was thinking that it would be maybe a bit of a modern day pirate situation…and it was not that at all.
This book is built around family secrets and a cryptic warning from an ailing mother. Tired of the secrecy, Meridel (commonly goes by the name Dell) takes the chance opportunity to see what her parents have been hiding her entire life. What she discovers throughout the book is way more than she expected.
The book starts off right in the middle of some disorienting action…almost like it’s foreshadowing how treacherous Dell’s return to Halycon Bay would be. From there the author takes Dell and the readers on a roller coaster of emotions as the family members and secrets are slowly revealed little by little.
The cast of characters is fairly immense and though it was a bit hard to keep track of names and characters at first, each one is so different in personality and appearance that it became easier quicker than I thought.
The pacing was pretty fast as Dell is constantly learning more information about the island, its secrets, her family, and even herself. Though there are moments where the reader and Dell get a chance to breathe, there is this undercurrent of urgency and the need to figure everything out that propels the story and hooks the reader in.
I can’t think of a single complaint I have about this book.
You may enjoy this book if you love:
🌊 small island town settings
🌊 family secrets
🌊 island/fisherman ghost stories
🌊 mystery with a hint of the paranormal (think a slightly more grown up version of Scooby Doo)
🌊 determined, headstrong female main character
🌊 swoony, flirtatious, yet dependable green-eyed male main character
🌊 comedic relief side character
🌊 romantic subplot (kissing and alluding to other activities but no details)
Looking forward to reading the sequel!
December 28, 2023
Now that was a PERFECT book!
September 23, 2022
Girls of Salt and Sea was an unexpected favourite. Once I started, the book just consumed my mind and I still haven't recovered. I decided to try this book because it was continually recommended by authors and Bookstagrammers I follow. Honestly, I started with low expectations because I wasn't sure if the story would speak to me. I had no idea how much it would exceed everything I expected. Girls of Salt and Sea has engaging prose, lush landscapes, gothic undertones, a twisted family history, a murder mystery and plenty of spookiness appropriate to this season and characters who were complicated and intriguing enough to hold my interest.
So many characters were more than they seemed, and I thoroughly enjoyed following Dell's discovery of the complex and tragic links between them. I believed Dell's initial presumptions about the characters she interacted with, only to have my opinions turned on their head along with hers. This was especially true for Hatch and Bram but still relevant for many others. In this regard and the scene painting, I found that the writing in this book was excellent.
At the end of the book, all the plots tie together and leave room for more stories. I look forward to the next instalments of stories from Halcyon Bay, and I can't wait to read more about them.
So many characters were more than they seemed, and I thoroughly enjoyed following Dell's discovery of the complex and tragic links between them. I believed Dell's initial presumptions about the characters she interacted with, only to have my opinions turned on their head along with hers. This was especially true for Hatch and Bram but still relevant for many others. In this regard and the scene painting, I found that the writing in this book was excellent.
At the end of the book, all the plots tie together and leave room for more stories. I look forward to the next instalments of stories from Halcyon Bay, and I can't wait to read more about them.
May 11, 2022
All the stars. Seriously, you're going to want to read this. This was outside of my typical genre, but I absolutely loved every part of this book. It was creative and unique, it had pieces of the paranormal, romance, and mermaid-y stuff, and it was to die for! Natalia's writing is absolutely beautiful, and her words and descriptions just jumped off the page. From the very first chapter I was hooked and couldn't put it down! Trust me, pick up this book. You won't regret it!
July 17, 2023
I have to be honest, I was skeptical going into this at first, mainly because it really isn't my genre. Now that I have finished reading this book (in pretty much one sitting) I can 100% say that this is up there with the best books I have read this year, and lately for that matter.
Fantastic writing, amazing detailed description (without getting tedious), phenomenal character developments. Yes yes and yes 5 stars and more 😍
Fantastic writing, amazing detailed description (without getting tedious), phenomenal character developments. Yes yes and yes 5 stars and more 😍
March 12, 2023
Stayed up way too late finishing this book but it was so worth it! So good! Each time I thought I had it figured out then the author introduced a brand new twist! Definitely recommend!
December 23, 2022
I enjoyed this book quite a lot and I think as a debut novel it is very good but it did not blow me like I thought it would having seen the reviews on it before I read it.
The characters are well written. Dell is a strong main character and Hatch is definitely an attractive literally boyfriend. Also Palmer and Mojo really grow into great side characters. There are also a range of well written baddies. Also the descriptions of the place and giving the place a mystical magical but also sinister air was really well done. There was definitely a sense of foreboding about the story.
BUT
things fall apart somewhat in regards to the plot.
Dell's parents treat her like she is 15 and it reads a bit like a YA book in that regard. Turns out she is 24 but a lot of her behaviour feels much younger. It just doesn't work
Also (and spoilers from here) Her rescue from the cult is totally random. Why does she need to go to the wedding the pretend nothing is happening? Why can't the police just come then and arrest them all after all they have a committed a crime and would be holding her when they turned up? It doesn't make any sense.
The idea that Abraham, having mostly been in a wheelchair could overpower a fit 24 yr old woman on the beach was silly. Even if he could walk he would be weak.
Why would she leave her cousin alone with his abusive Father knowing he might be a killer. She has a gun in her bag for goodness sake.
It just didn't work for me. Too many weird decisions take by people that make no real sense
Also the magical realism part vanishes in the later stages of the book and really has little bearing on the ending of the story.
Having said all that. I would happily read the next one if the author writes it and I think the author definitely has a talent and look forward to her developing her skills and tightening up her plots to really show off her writing.
The characters are well written. Dell is a strong main character and Hatch is definitely an attractive literally boyfriend. Also Palmer and Mojo really grow into great side characters. There are also a range of well written baddies. Also the descriptions of the place and giving the place a mystical magical but also sinister air was really well done. There was definitely a sense of foreboding about the story.
BUT
things fall apart somewhat in regards to the plot.
Dell's parents treat her like she is 15 and it reads a bit like a YA book in that regard. Turns out she is 24 but a lot of her behaviour feels much younger. It just doesn't work
Also (and spoilers from here) Her rescue from the cult is totally random. Why does she need to go to the wedding the pretend nothing is happening? Why can't the police just come then and arrest them all after all they have a committed a crime and would be holding her when they turned up? It doesn't make any sense.
The idea that Abraham, having mostly been in a wheelchair could overpower a fit 24 yr old woman on the beach was silly. Even if he could walk he would be weak.
Why would she leave her cousin alone with his abusive Father knowing he might be a killer. She has a gun in her bag for goodness sake.
It just didn't work for me. Too many weird decisions take by people that make no real sense
Also the magical realism part vanishes in the later stages of the book and really has little bearing on the ending of the story.
Having said all that. I would happily read the next one if the author writes it and I think the author definitely has a talent and look forward to her developing her skills and tightening up her plots to really show off her writing.
February 5, 2023
This is the debut novel from Natalia M. Lucia. I can guarantee that this will definitely not be my last. In fact, She has just become an auto buy author!
This story follows Meridel or just Dell as she likes to be called. Dell has grown up with a mom who has a severe mental illness and is always talking in circles. One of her most haunting messages that she always says is "Stay away from Halcyon Bay". Dell knows she has family there and when her grandmother dies, Dell heads there for the reading of the will. What she finds is a large family filled with secrets and mysteries. Dell discovers not all is what it seems and as she fights to uncover the truth....will she survive to tell the tale?
Oh mercy me did I love this book! The way that Natalia weaves the tale with eerie descriptions and haunted locations, this book sucked me in. I fell hard for Dell and Hatch. Their relationship, although complicated, was one that I was rooting for the entire book. Dell's life and history plus coming to the island and learning more about where she came from, broke my heart and tore it to pieces. Natalia truly tells a tale so hauntingly beautiful that I tore through the story and didn't want it to end. Even though we did get a conclusion to one mystery, there is still so much to discover in future stories. I am so glad that we will get more in this world. i give this book 5 spooky stars! Well Done Natalia! I am so looking forward to more of your work.!
This story follows Meridel or just Dell as she likes to be called. Dell has grown up with a mom who has a severe mental illness and is always talking in circles. One of her most haunting messages that she always says is "Stay away from Halcyon Bay". Dell knows she has family there and when her grandmother dies, Dell heads there for the reading of the will. What she finds is a large family filled with secrets and mysteries. Dell discovers not all is what it seems and as she fights to uncover the truth....will she survive to tell the tale?
Oh mercy me did I love this book! The way that Natalia weaves the tale with eerie descriptions and haunted locations, this book sucked me in. I fell hard for Dell and Hatch. Their relationship, although complicated, was one that I was rooting for the entire book. Dell's life and history plus coming to the island and learning more about where she came from, broke my heart and tore it to pieces. Natalia truly tells a tale so hauntingly beautiful that I tore through the story and didn't want it to end. Even though we did get a conclusion to one mystery, there is still so much to discover in future stories. I am so glad that we will get more in this world. i give this book 5 spooky stars! Well Done Natalia! I am so looking forward to more of your work.!
September 3, 2022
WOW, WOW, WOW! This book was absolutely STUNNING! Lucia beautifully orchestrated a magical and thrilling tale filled with intrigue and mystery surrounding the infamous Klyne family of illusive Halcyon Bay. Family secrets loom heavy and loyalties have questionable and dark circumstances, especially for Dell Costa.
Dell was moved away from the secrets and tragedies of Halcyon Bay when she was a little girl from her fiercely protective parents. They kept the secrets from her, never divulging the truth behind their family, better living in a life of solitude and omission.
But, when tragedy strikes the Klyne family, yet again, it affords Dell the opportunity to jet away to the Bay and uncover the family secrets that have been kept from her for so long. But, is she ultimately prepared to uncover the ghosts of her past? There’s only one way to find out.
With ghosts, danger, evil, and intrigue lurking behind every imaginable nook and cranny, just how far with the Bay let her go?
Lucia does such a magnificent job of creating the illusory world of Halcyon Bay that will have readers dying for a chance to uncover the secrets of the island for themselves. For a chance to get to know the islands most elusive and valiant characters, I would hop a plane and take a stormy ferry ride myself. For a novel the will be sure to keep you on the edge of you seat, this one is the one for you!
Dell was moved away from the secrets and tragedies of Halcyon Bay when she was a little girl from her fiercely protective parents. They kept the secrets from her, never divulging the truth behind their family, better living in a life of solitude and omission.
But, when tragedy strikes the Klyne family, yet again, it affords Dell the opportunity to jet away to the Bay and uncover the family secrets that have been kept from her for so long. But, is she ultimately prepared to uncover the ghosts of her past? There’s only one way to find out.
With ghosts, danger, evil, and intrigue lurking behind every imaginable nook and cranny, just how far with the Bay let her go?
Lucia does such a magnificent job of creating the illusory world of Halcyon Bay that will have readers dying for a chance to uncover the secrets of the island for themselves. For a chance to get to know the islands most elusive and valiant characters, I would hop a plane and take a stormy ferry ride myself. For a novel the will be sure to keep you on the edge of you seat, this one is the one for you!
November 30, 2023
Absolutely fantastic. Both haunting and enchanting, a slow-burn mystery that unraveled in shocking ways as I flew through those pages.
I consumed the entire book on an international flight, and it's one of of my new favorite (and seriously underrated) indie reads. It's part mystery, part thriller, and part fantasy, set in the eerie yet beautiful backdrop of a remote Florida island. I was absolutely captivated by Natalia's characters, plot, and worldbuilding (especially as a fellow Floridian). The romance was also sweetly sentimental and had just the right amount of pacing.
While I loved the plot, where Natalia's writing really shines is in her worldbuilding. This is her debut novel, yet she writes like a pro. I absolutely love her writing style and choice of prose - everything flowed perfectly, her scenes were incredibly descriptive, and she truly captured the essence of the spookier side of Florida.
I will now be forever recommending this book to those who love haunting, mysterious novels with a hint of fantasy - especially my fellow Floridians. I'm so glad I finished this just as book two became available, I can't wait!
I consumed the entire book on an international flight, and it's one of of my new favorite (and seriously underrated) indie reads. It's part mystery, part thriller, and part fantasy, set in the eerie yet beautiful backdrop of a remote Florida island. I was absolutely captivated by Natalia's characters, plot, and worldbuilding (especially as a fellow Floridian). The romance was also sweetly sentimental and had just the right amount of pacing.
While I loved the plot, where Natalia's writing really shines is in her worldbuilding. This is her debut novel, yet she writes like a pro. I absolutely love her writing style and choice of prose - everything flowed perfectly, her scenes were incredibly descriptive, and she truly captured the essence of the spookier side of Florida.
I will now be forever recommending this book to those who love haunting, mysterious novels with a hint of fantasy - especially my fellow Floridians. I'm so glad I finished this just as book two became available, I can't wait!
September 6, 2022
Where to begin? I loved this book and devoured it in one day. I loved the spooky atmosphere of the island and Macias Lucia made it seem like a real place and the book was a portal that let the reader peek in on the people. I especially appreciated the way it balanced the spooky mystery of certain parts of the island against the beauty of it.
I am madly in love with Hatch and I appreciate Dell letting us all live vicariously through her to meet him. I also very much appreciated the relationship between Dell and Palmer, as it was a very genuine depiction of a female friendship in the space between growing out of the melodramas of high school and becoming an adult.
I don’t want to even tread near spoilers, because this is a mystery through and through, so I’ll leave you with my favorite line: “I’d still like to hollow out his eyeballs with a spork.”
I am madly in love with Hatch and I appreciate Dell letting us all live vicariously through her to meet him. I also very much appreciated the relationship between Dell and Palmer, as it was a very genuine depiction of a female friendship in the space between growing out of the melodramas of high school and becoming an adult.
I don’t want to even tread near spoilers, because this is a mystery through and through, so I’ll leave you with my favorite line: “I’d still like to hollow out his eyeballs with a spork.”
January 19, 2023
GOSAS was a such a fun, quick read! I really loved Lucia’s writing style, her descriptions were beautiful.I felt instantly connected with Dell as she navigates this newly found family. Even though I figured out a main twist early on, there were even more to come and I was surprised to see how everything unfolded in the end. The romance subplot between Hatch & Dell added even more depth to the story, I hope it grows even further with book two.
Overall, this was a nice break from the fantasy books I’ve been reading, I’m hoping book two brings us even MORE explanation in the terms of the lore aspects of Halcyon Bay! I don’t want to spoil anything, so I’ll leave it at that.
Would recommend for an easy, little spooky, beach read!
Overall, this was a nice break from the fantasy books I’ve been reading, I’m hoping book two brings us even MORE explanation in the terms of the lore aspects of Halcyon Bay! I don’t want to spoil anything, so I’ll leave it at that.
Would recommend for an easy, little spooky, beach read!
July 13, 2023
"You can only linger in hell for so long before you become flame or demon yourself"
Holy majoly! To say this book was freaking amazing is such an understatement! I cannot come up with enough adjectives to properly describe how good this book was.
I don't need to go into detail about what this story is about, because, hello, book description. What I can tell you though is that this book was consuming my mind. I couldn't stop trying to figure out what was going to happen, and when I thought I did, SURPRISE! I was wrong. It's so great when a story can surprise you like that and/or keep you guessing. It was creepy, suspenseful, frustrating and also so sweet (the love story in it)
Officially obsessed & will be impatiently waiting for book two. SO GOOD!!!!!
Holy majoly! To say this book was freaking amazing is such an understatement! I cannot come up with enough adjectives to properly describe how good this book was.
I don't need to go into detail about what this story is about, because, hello, book description. What I can tell you though is that this book was consuming my mind. I couldn't stop trying to figure out what was going to happen, and when I thought I did, SURPRISE! I was wrong. It's so great when a story can surprise you like that and/or keep you guessing. It was creepy, suspenseful, frustrating and also so sweet (the love story in it)
Officially obsessed & will be impatiently waiting for book two. SO GOOD!!!!!
August 30, 2022
A wonderful debut novel, Natalia Macias Lucia transports us into the world of Halcyon Bay. This world, so like our own, but with the chance encounter with the otherworldly. A tad spookier than I typically read for a contemporary book, Dell’s tale leaves you questioning “what if?” A few parts in the first 2/3 of the story left me wanting more, but the last 1/3 quickly made up with action and some major twists I didn’t see coming. Natalia writes with such absolutely beautiful prose, I more than once had to double-take that I was, in fact, reading a newly released novel. I am quite curious where the next book in the Halcyon Bay series will take us…
December 10, 2022
Wow what an incredible debut! From the first sentence I was sucked in. There are so many elements to this, but I don’t want to say too much because I don’t want to spoil anything. I appreciated this spooky tale and the journey of our main character. She slowly unravels deep family secrets while uncovering the creepy history of her family’s home town. The pacing of the novel is excellent. It kept me enthralled while also taking time to explore the beautiful details. Also, I lived in SW FL for several years and appreciated the way she was able to capture the tropical feel, but yet make feel haunted and creepy. I also adored the romance.
Very ready for book 2!!!
Very ready for book 2!!!
September 6, 2022
If I hadn't been in such a slump with my physical health, I know I could have devoured this book in a day. This was such a well crafted and satisfying read! The romance was swoon-worthy, the mystery was captivating. I loved the eerie and mystical realism of the setting. This story is perfect for the upcoming spooky season. An exciting ghost story with heart and tons of wit! Natalia's writing is STUNNING! My kindle is full of highlighted lines thanks to her enchanting prose! This author has a gift for story telling, and I can't wait to read more from her. What an outstanding debut!!!
September 8, 2022
I absolutely loved this book! I was completely hooked from the beginning. The detail and description of absolutely everything is exquisite. The writing constantly leaves you wanting to read “just one more chapter” before you put it down. The pace of the storyline is great - never dragging, simply providing additional and necessary background information while still pushing the plot forward. I adore the characters and their interactions - everything feels so natural. I still can’t believe this is a debut novel. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
September 9, 2022
I had not physically bought a book in a while as I have too many and so I mostly use my kindle but when I saw this cover! I NEEDED to add it to my collection. When I ripped open the package and pulled it out, WOW! I have 0 regrets. From the moment I picked it up I could not put it down! The words and literary illustrations were impecable. I could quite literally smell the saltwater and feel the ocean breeze on my face as I read this. I absolutely adored every second of this read. I am so excited to see what’s to come from Natalia!
December 6, 2022
I knew about halfway in that this was going to be the best book I read all year.
I've never read anything quite like Girls of Salt and Sea. A contemporary story with elements of the supernatural and pieces from classic thrillers, this book kept me on edge. Yet, it's wrapped in a deliciously sweet romance with Hatch Seaborn, all the slow burn you could ask for.
Seriously in love with this book. I am weighted with unanswered questions, but I have to wait for Isle of Brine and Bone to come out! I cannot wait to see where the secrets of Halcyon Bay will take Dell next.
I've never read anything quite like Girls of Salt and Sea. A contemporary story with elements of the supernatural and pieces from classic thrillers, this book kept me on edge. Yet, it's wrapped in a deliciously sweet romance with Hatch Seaborn, all the slow burn you could ask for.
Seriously in love with this book. I am weighted with unanswered questions, but I have to wait for Isle of Brine and Bone to come out! I cannot wait to see where the secrets of Halcyon Bay will take Dell next.
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