Sea of Charms by Sarah Beth Durst

Book Review

Melody Bowles

Sea of Charms follows The Spellshop and The Enchanted Greenhouse in Sarah Beth Durst’s series of cosy romantasies. Sea of Charms can be read as a standalone, although there are appearances by characters from the other books, which will be a treat for fans. There is also a glimpse of the upcoming title The Magical Cheese Emporium.

Sea of Charms follows Marin, a sailor who delivers supplies between islands. Marin is accompanied by sea serpent Perrie, who she risks her life and boat to rescue. Although it’s a classic Save the Cat! character introduction, it’s charming and fun to read. It works a treat in getting the reader warmed up to the seemingly gruff Marin.

Marin ventures into the city of Alyssium to make a delivery, only to find the place on fire. The emperor has been overthrown and a revolution is underway. This event runs in the background of the story. Marin is not involved in the fighting, but she does ferry people away to other islands, including her adventurous, sheltered musician friend Dax. Who she definitely isn’t attracted to, okay, reader?

There is nothing surprising about the story in Sea of Charms. Marin’s backstory is the cliché burned before, afraid to love again type, and the ending is obvious. Sometimes the story lingers on obvious questions for lengthy periods. Will Dax rejoin Marin’s crew? Of course, he will! His inclusion is a love letter to music and how it can bring people together.

Despite this, the novel is so breezy and the characters so likeable that it’s easy to get swept along and enjoy the ride. Fittingly for a novel about sailing, this novel really is about enjoying the journey. The settings are imaginative and delightful. Yes, I would like to read about an island of flying cats! And how to win a boat back from a dragon queen who wants it for her hoard. What is a ‘marmoose’? Read this and find out!

Pick up Sea of Charms for an escapist tour of enchanted islands. Your favourite cosy fantasy tropes are all here, including finding community, healing, and gentle adventure.