Although she has been brought up to fear it, Ria Lucroy has always loved the ocean. But when her father’s ship is destroyed by the infamous pirate known as the Heartless King, Ria’s father is given an ultimatum: die, or give up one of his daughters in exchange for his life. Determined to protect her father and sisters, Ria leaves in the middle of the night, ready to face the Heartless King and the bloodthirsty pirates that haunt the ocean. But, onboard the Blood Rose, she discovers there is far more to the king and his crew than the stories have told. Suddenly, Ria is on an adventure, just as she has always longed to be.

A Curse of Salt is Pirates of the Caribbean meets Beauty and the Beast with just a dash of Moana, a mash-up I could never have imagined but something I now know I needed.

I’ve always loved the story of Beauty and the Beast and have read many retellings over the years, but this one stands out among the rest. Although it’s a story I know well, there are plenty of twists and surprises to keep it feeling fresh and exciting. Sarah Street has a talent for world-building which, together with a well-crafted plot, loveable characters and an intricate mythical lore, meant I was absolutely swept away by this debut novel. Plus, the slow-burn romance is absolute perfection. I’m praying to the sea gods for a sequel. This is a truly swoon-worthy romance, for ages 14+.