First published in November 2022 by Wednesday Books, the first book in the World of the Narrows, written in dual perspective of the main characters: Elias a.k.a Saint, and Isolde, is available on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, Kindle, and audiobook formats, at local libraries, or through the Libby app.

Elias learns at a young age what happens when you don’t heed the old tales. Superstition and reverence for the sea rule his actions for nine years, as he manages to escape deadly storms. Myths and creeds grow, and he gains a reputation in the Narrows. When he’s days away from achieving the dream his father wanted from him, he meets Isolde, a dredger from the Unnamed Sea with so many secrets enveloping her he doesn’t quite know what to make of her.

Isolde is on the run from her life, her mother in particular, and she wants to bring her down. But her mother, a powerful gem merchant with a long reach, runs into more trouble. Finding the right person to trust isn’t obvious. Can Saint be that person?

In this book, readers gain insight into Saint’s cunning, his dreams, and hopes for his empire. The romance is weak, lacks chemistry, and tension. The friendship between Saint and Clove is better developed. Theirs is a strong brotherhood; the intricacies of their past proved more intriguing than the mistrust and reluctant romantic plot Adrienne wove.

Enjoyable dual POV, rich descriptions, and sea adventures make this a solid 3-star read.