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Sea Magic

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“A tale of magic, self-acceptance, and love that will leave you spellbound.” — Bailey Cavender, Reedsy Discovery

There is a place on the coast of New England where a salty sailor gives sage advice, and a legendary mermaid appears at least once a century. Madeline owns an antique store in this charming town and knows everyone by name. But she keeps a secret buried deep inside–her ability to touch an object and feel the essence of the previous owner.

After purchasing a mysterious box at an estate sale, she has startlingly vivid dreams about Maria, a young headstrong Puritan whose “knowing” could get her branded as a witch, and whose forbidden love for a poor sailor caused a scandal.

Desperate for answers, Madeline turns to Evan, a handsome history professor who tempts her to believe in love. Together they uncover Maria’s story, helpless to stop its trajectory toward tragedy. With Evan’s support, maybe she can lay the ghosts of the past to rest—including her own.

This debut novel was inspired by the real-life story of Maria Hallett and her love affair with the notorious pirate Black Sam Bellamy.

380 pages, Paperback

Published February 6, 2023

189 people are currently reading
6006 people want to read

About the author

Heidi McIntyre

1 book95 followers
Always an avid reader, Heidi was inspired to write by her college professor, who convinced her to switch majors to English. From then on, she harbored a secret wish to write a novel one day. Heidi spent most of her marketing career as a consultant specializing in fresh produce where she worked with a variety of growers, commodity boards, and associations. Her marketing campaigns received multiple awards.

Sea Magic is her debut novel and the first of the Hidden Gems series which was also a finalist in the 2022 Page Turner Awards. Originally from New Jersey, Heidi lives in Oviedo, Florida with her husband, Tim Lee, and their dog Pumpkin. She loves coffee, chocolate, yoga and visiting historical places. For more information visit www.heidimcintyre.com.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
Profile Image for Sara Jesus.
1,681 reviews123 followers
February 14, 2023
A cozy romance with dual perspectives about a woman with psycho abilites and loves antiquites. It is a book about love, acceptance, sea legends and talks too in spiritual conections. Madeline is such a great main character, that along journey has began to believe in the existence of supernatural forces, as well as allow herself to accept love in her life. I really enjoy Maria story too, especial her courage to go against the father's principles. Everyone should have a brillant aunt like Phoebe and a suportive/fun friend like Chelsea. Evan was a good character too, because was willing to belive in the abilites of Madeline despite be a academic professor.
Profile Image for Debbie.
496 reviews77 followers
February 5, 2023
Starting with a stunning book cover, this debut novel by Heid McIntyre, and the first in the soon to be Hidden Gem Series, is a fascinating dual timeline story that blends the past and the present.

I was initially entranced by the first 50% of this book. The characters were all very likable and the story of Madeline, an antique store owner who has a special “gift”, and also a unique connection to a young Puritan girl in 1717 Cape Cod, was very intriguing. However, the story faltered for me when Madeline started training in shamanic conscious dreaming, channeling and time travel, to meet up with Maria and help her crossover. Then, unfortunately, it totally lost me when she met with spirit guides, talking animals and traversing to the “middle world”’

This story reminded me a lot of the old TV series Quantum Leap, and though I do enjoy books about time travel, this ended up not being a good fit for me. But, if you can embrace things that are sometimes hard to understand or you enjoy supernatural types of stories, then this might be the book for you. This would definitely appeal to antique lovers, fans of fantasy or magical realism, and history and romance.

My sincere thanks to Book Sirens and the publisher, McIntyre Publishing Inc. for giving me the opportunity to read and review a digital ARC of this novel.

First 50% ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Last half ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Overall 3.5 ⭐️
Profile Image for Bookish_Aly_Cat.
967 reviews49 followers
February 9, 2023
This book was such a beautiful blend of so many things that I love put together into one fantastic read! I absolutely loved the dual timeline following Madeline and Maria, the small seaside town feel, and the magical elements woven into the story.

This book was beautifully written and had such a nice flow and pace throughout the entire story. The characters had distinct voices and I felt like there was a nice balance between the two main characters we followed. I’m usually not very interested in the historical aspects of stories, but this was done is such a way where I was captivated and left wanting to learn more, especially about Maria.

This is a must read mystical book, especially for lovers of heartfelt magical stories and romance.
Profile Image for Annie Ballard.
Author 10 books53 followers
April 27, 2023
Delightful characters in this paranormal women's fiction debut
Sea Magic by Heidi McIntyre

Sea Magic is a charming story that interposes Madeleine, a contemporary woman who doesn’t quite understand or believe in her own intuition, and Maria, a young woman from colonial New England whose story of love gained and lost is somehow connected to an antique box containing old coins and a ring. When Madeleine handles the box at an estate sale, her intuition flares, so she has no choice but to take it home. But there are consequences!

While Madeleine is busy running her antique business along with her delightfully quirky Aunt Phoebe, a confirmed spiritualist, her thoroughly modern friend Chelsea is determined to get her into the dating scene. She resists, but when a possible companion is the extremely attractive history professor who can help her research the provenance of her recent antique acquisitions, she is intrigued. But of course, it is just business. Or so she tells herself.

Meantime, her intuition is also heating up, regardless of Madeleine’s willingness to acknowledge it. Her dreams about Maria, the confirmation of the history record, and Phoebe’s encouragement to pursue her unusual experiences converge in an exciting intervention.

Sea Magic offers a touch of the paranormal, a pair of heroines you’ll root for, a host of enjoyable characters, and Old New England. McIntyre creates a setting in which both the historical and contemporary elements are compelling. The flicker of romantic attraction is a harbinger of things to come. This book is first in a series called Hidden Gems.

Profile Image for Nanette Littlestone.
Author 14 books154 followers
December 14, 2022
You know the author has done a good job when you gain appreciation for something you didn’t previously have. I’ve never been a big fan of antique shops, but after reading Sea Magic I want to give them another try. Madeline Hunter, our shy heroine, owns an antique shop on the northeast coast and loves to tease out the stories behind each piece. Quietly. On her own. Until she finds a box at an estate sale and starts having wildly vivid dreams about a young girl named Maria from the 1700s.

In this dual timeline novel, author Heidi McIntyre brings both the sea and the area to life with beautiful, sometimes haunting descriptions of the ocean’s power and the coastline. You’ll fall in love with Madeline and Maria, one shy, one a rebel, but both warm and loving. The plot unfolds fluidly and easily under the author’s skill and the cast of secondary characters is charming as well.

If you love passion, romance, and the sea, you’ll love this delightful story. Its beautifully inspiring message will keep you turning the pages.
Profile Image for Sudeshna Banerjee.
1,328 reviews40 followers
April 20, 2023
A great book with a touch of magical realism

This book has been a Cozy read for me. It is a romance novel with some Fantasy and Mythology mixed Genre mixed in it. The cover of the book is stunning and this is Heidi Mclntyre's first book in the Hidden Gems series and she has literally managed to impress me with her flawless writing skills. The plot is very intriguing and I really loved reading about the story of Maria. I could literally feel the vibes of the 1700s. Madeline's character development is too good. I really loved how she started to tune into her psychic abilities Little by little instead of pushing it away and her love for antiques made me feel so Cozy. Her relationship with Aunt Phebe was interesting and Chelsea really gave me the vibes of a best friend with whom you can share anything. The romance between Madeline and Evan was also very cute and I loved reading this book a lot.
Profile Image for Bailey.
44 reviews6 followers
February 14, 2023
A duel-timelines tale of magic, self-acceptance, love, and loss that will leave you spellbound.

Sea Magic by Heidi Mcintyre follows Madeline, a modern woman living in the seaside town of Penbrook. She spends her time running her antique business, working with her Aunt Phoebe, and visiting with her friend Chelsea. But after a mysterious box calls to her at an estate sale, she starts having dreams about a young Puritan woman, Maria.



Maria is young, headstrong, and beautiful. When Samuel Bellamy arrives in her town, the two fall deeply in love. Sam is penniless, however, so Maria's father will not allow them to wed. Sam sets out to seek his fortune, promising to return for Maria.



Madeline watches this tragic love story play out while beginning her own love story with Evan, a handsome and charming history professor who helps her piece together Maria and Sam's story. The love story between Madeline and Evan is a nice contrast to the story of Maria and Sam. From the very beginning, readers know Maria and Sam will not have a happily ever after, but Madeline and Evan might. Of course, Madeline and Evan have some challenges to overcome, but they don't feel contrived, like in so many romance novels. They feel real.



Another huge part of the story is self-acceptance. Madeline has always shut down the part of her that might be magical. Throughout the novel, she learns to embrace that side of herself, and even opens her heart up to new people. Madeline's growth is refreshing to watch. She has very real reasons for denying this part of herself, and her embracing it is a slow process, like in reality.



The other major part of Sea Magic is,of course, the magic. Madeline can sense who should own specific antiques, and certain pieces call to her. Magic is a thread woven throughout the novel, and though using it is crucial to Madeline's journey, it never feels overwhelming.



The two stories are woven together beautifully and the themes don't overpower the story. Having Madeline as our point of view character keeps Maria's story a mystery, which unfolds for the reader aling with Madeline. This, along with Madeline's own emotional journey in the present, make this story compelling and impossible to put down.


If you are a fan of historical fiction, magical realism, and enjoy a sprinkle of steam, Sea Magic is a book that you should check out. Hopefully, we get a sequel soon!
Profile Image for Carmen.
106 reviews1 follower
February 14, 2023
I have discovered a new favorite author. “Sea Magic” has romance, nuggets of history, ghosts and mermaids in one book so of course I loved it. I assume by the ending this will become a series and I can’t wait for book 2.

Thank you to the author and publisher for sending me an advance copy for an honest review.
Profile Image for Teresa.
226 reviews2 followers
October 19, 2023
I received a complimentary copy of Sea Magic and I'm so glad I did. It's a delightful tale with great characters, dialog that flows nicely and just enough magic mixed in to make it a fun read.
I look forward to reading the second in the Hidden Gem series when it's available!
71 reviews
February 21, 2023
I received an ARC eBook, thanks to the author and to Library-Thing. From the cover to the content, this book has all the ingredients to become a winner. I was very excited to read this book, it had all the elements that I love. It didn't disappointed me. It was magical!

Madeline has a precious gift, she can see and feel things that only a few can think of but that she dismisses. When she purchases a box on a State Sale, she will find herself immersed on an adventure that few will experience and many will dream of. I felt a strong connection with her, since I was a little girl I experienced a similar gift, but like her I refused to embrace it.

She will learn to live with this gift and use it to help others. Was not an easy road to travel, but she had the support of family, friends and the "others".

There is more than one love story in this book and the author skillfully intertwine both stories into one. Mingling together fantasy and history into a spectacular story. She never dragged the story with unnecessary angst or miscommunication issues more than needed. It was the perfect balance of tragedy, soul-mates and magic.

I was already intrigued with the story of Black Sam and Mary when I watched a docuseries of Pirates. Heidi McIntyre give the story closure, I can see the pirate doing the right thing, he was an honorable pirate after all. I know this sounds conflicting, but history recount the story of a man who was merciful with the ones he took from and generous with his crew.

Simply un-put-downable!
1 review1 follower
January 19, 2023
What a joy it is to have read "Sea Magic." The author displays keen powers of observation in both character descriptions and the variety of environments the characters find themselves in. In your mind's eye, you are inspecting the intricacies of an antique shop, picking up the vibe of an upscale pick-up bar, or enjoying the loveliness and mystery of a New England ocean-side town.
Gee, I found myself rooting for each and every character and truly wishing them well on their pleasantly circuitous journey.
I also found the inclusion of some "magic" or Divine Intervention," helped make this story thought-provoking and special. It is heart-warming and once in, the book is really hard to put down. "Sea Magic" is a terrific read.
Profile Image for D.K. Silver.
Author 3 books7 followers
January 24, 2023
Heidi McIntyre's debut novel is not to be missed if you enjoy romance, time travel, mystery, magical realism and a women's journey to embrace gifts that she had tried to suppress. As a young girl, Madeline saw things a little differently than others. Her mother noticed but didn't encourage her daughter to pursue anything outside of normal boundaries. As a grown woman, Madeline finds comfort and joy in restoring pieces of furniture, particularly ones that "speak to her". When she purchases a wooden box, her life changes and all that she tried to keep hidden begins to surface in dreams and in daytime visions which take her back in time and allow her to fully embrace her unique gifts to assist others caught between worlds. A joy to read and I look forward to more books from Ms. McIntyre.
Profile Image for Kath.
917 reviews9 followers
February 8, 2023
Unusual love story and mystical beings and life in and around water. Madeline had a unique gift of being able to touch an old object and know its history. Her unusual quests with several ancient or antique boxes with items in them brought out this unique gift along with others who could read the past or have special powers in going into the history of these items.

Aunt Phoebe was a lot of fun and a believer in Madeline's magic and powers. Madeline also got to meet and work with friends Noah and Chelsea and got to fall in love and cherish Evan along the way through various adventures.

Fun, mystical read that captures mind and heart with relating to stories of the ocean or seas. Enjoyable read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Chelsea (2_girls_bookin_it).
683 reviews27 followers
February 25, 2023
I really wanted to love this book. The plot was there, but there was just something missing from this book. Add that in with a few inconsistences - Madeline shares Noah doesn't have a cell phone but she doesn't actually find out for a few more chapters that he doesn't have a cell phone - and writing that seemed a bit too formal for storytelling, and the book fell a little flat for me.

One thing I enjoyed about this book was the historical fiction aspect. There was so much history included in this story, and if you're into learning more about the people who lived in the early 1700s, then you may just find this book to be something you'll want to add to your TBR.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Andi.
28 reviews
January 13, 2023
I very much enjoyed this book. It was a nice little cozy read with endearing characters and a whole lot of magic. The story follows Madeline, the owner of an antiques shop in an Atlantic coastal town. She runs the shop with her eccentric and spiritual aunt, Phoebe. Madeline has psychic powers but in the beginning isn't quite ready to admit it. Through the help of the mysterious Noah, she learns that her abilities are a gift she can use them to make a big difference. The ending to this story was perfect and I immediately found myself searching for the author online to see if she's published her next book yet.

Thanks for the great read and I can't wait for the next in this series!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Profile Image for Veronica Marshall.
324 reviews13 followers
January 10, 2023
Sea Magic was a wonderful enchanting tale with a dual Timeline.

It is the two lives of a Maria Hallett and Madeline.

Madeline - 2018 owns a Antique shop and has a knack for giving people the objects they are looking for her Aunt Phoebe calls it a psychic intuition she denies it. Part of it has to do with her background her Aunt believes. Finds a box at a estate sale with coins unusual to Connecticut and then is curious about the origin. Which puts Madeline on a self discovery where she faces her own past, Maria's story and a web of how other antiques were acquired.

Maria Hallett late 1700's a strong minded women in a time period seen but not heard. Father will tell you who to marry. Somehow her tale stretches across generations and mingles with Madeline.

Noah- 2018 A seamen, a traveler a psychic who happens to always be in the right place and the right time.

The story has strong writing, great character voice and style. It left me with wanting a little more about Maria. When it comes to dual timelines the focus ended up with More Madeline then Maria. It's an intriguing read and it really hooked me in wanting to know more historically.

I received an advanced copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Pat.
100 reviews2 followers
January 14, 2023
I loved Sea Magic! This outstanding debut novel by Heidi McIntyre is sure to appeal to a wide audience of readers especially those who enjoy historical fiction and novels with elements of mystical realism. I look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Janis Wildy.
Author 1 book127 followers
January 9, 2023
A great read!

I love this book! A wonderful magical contemporary story that follows the main character as she awakens to her intuitive skills. An overlapping historical mystery, whimsical antique store and a warm cast of supporting characters add to the novel’s charm. Add in a romance, a secondary story about pirates and touches of the paranormal, and you will be thinking of this book long after you read it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily because I enjoyed it!
Profile Image for Marsea.
11 reviews4 followers
February 14, 2023
A quick, compelling read that I enjoyed while on vacation. Reminded me a bit of Barbara O'Neal's books but with a magical element. Highly recommend!
Profile Image for LadyofDreams.
318 reviews1 follower
February 2, 2023
I loved this book! I received it as an early reviewer, and was so happy to be able to read it. It is a lovely, magical and romantic story, with time travel and ghosts, and a modern love story mixed in. There is a lot of wisdom, as well, as the main character opens to her sensitivity and uses her gifts to solve a centuries-old mystery. I was also thrilled to see that there is going to be a second book from this same author. I can’t wait!
2 reviews1 follower
April 25, 2025
I enjoyed the cozy texture of this book and allowed me to view beyond reality
I became one of the characters which I love to do when reading or watching
Thanks and looking forward to the next
Profile Image for Annette Summerfield.
703 reviews16 followers
April 25, 2025
Mermaids are real. Magic is real.
A heartwarming story. I'm going to miss Noah and Maria.
9 reviews12 followers
October 17, 2023
different!!

An enjoyable easy read. Different for me. I liked the author’s style of writing. She is a new author to me—will be looking for more of her books—for sure.
Profile Image for Katarina (kekii).
41 reviews2 followers
February 9, 2023
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)

Reading the description, I thought I would like this book, but there were just too many instances where I almost dropped it. The dialogue felt unnatural, ''Nobody talks like that!'' crossed my mind so many times. Even the characters' voices felt the same. Without the names, I couldn't tell the difference. The protagonist's relationship with her love interest felt rushed and unbelievable, especially since they were both grown-ups. There was no depth or chemistry between them. I wish I had something nice to say. Hopefully, the writing will develop in future works.
36 reviews
March 27, 2023
Entrancing!

The story carried me away right from the beginning. It is full and rich throughout. It is so worth reading!
140 reviews2 followers
February 18, 2024
This book is a treasure in itself. I thought of The Ghost Whisperer and I loved that show. It kept me I interested and I had a hard time putting the book down. Madeline and Evan are a good couple. And I still have questions about Noah. Can't wait for the next book.
Profile Image for micheline Lombardi.
1 review
July 15, 2023
interesting book

This book had some twists and turns which kept me involved in the story. I enjoyed reading it and look forward to reading more in the series
34 reviews
July 10, 2023
spellbound reading

I love this book! I read for hours and hours each night. I love the location of the story. The characters all work so well together. I enjoyed the history dreams. I am all about magic and mermaids. Throw in some humor, romance and suspense and you have a perfect story.
Profile Image for Katherine Scott.
22 reviews
October 10, 2023
Love love love!

Omg I loved this book so much! So many emotions! I had an inkling about Noah but when he shook Evans hand, I was super confused. Gosh this book was amazing!
Profile Image for Shawna.
577 reviews
December 26, 2022
This is a debut novel and the first in a series. I loved the dual timeline and the weaving of plot elements with historical research. I was floored when I read the author’s note at the end that the book’s historical figures were real and inspired this story. This book has adventure, some romance, and elements of the paranormal. The main character, Madeline, is coming to terms with her intuitive and psychic abilities throughout the story.

I received an advance reader copy from BookSirens for free and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews

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