Rise of the Sea Witch (Unfortunate Soul Chronicles – 1) by Stacey Rourke
Details of the sea witch’s banishment have been exaggerated. The body count that preempted it was not. Once an illustrious princess, her hands and tentacles were stained with the blood of thousands. No one could comprehend how the hooks of madness dragged her down from her life of privilege.
Born Princess Vanessa of Atlantica, the ambitious young royal was one of two children born to the great King Poseidon. She and her brother, Triton, were groomed from birth to rule. Yet only one would ascend that coveted throne. While carefree Triton flits through his training with a cavalier demeanor and beguiling charm, Vanessa’s hunger for her father’s acceptance drives her to push herself to the limits of magic, and combat to become a leader worthy of her people.
When war against the humans ravages their once regal kingdom, political sides are chosen. Factions from the seven seas challenge the existing leadership, pitting Vanessa against her brother in a vicious battle for the crown. Traitors are exposed, dark family secrets revealed, and a once strong sibling bond is strained to its breaking point.
Only when the ink black waters from the ultimate betrayal rescind, will the truth be known of how the villainous sea witch rose with one name on her vengeful lips–Triton.
Amazon Barnes and Noble Goodreads
Author’s Bio
Stacey Rourke is the author of the award winning YA Gryphon Series, the chillingly suspenseful Legends Saga, and the romantic comedy Reel Romance Series. She lives in Michigan with her husband, two beautiful daughters, and two giant dogs. She loves to travel, has an unhealthy shoe addiction, and considers herself blessed to make a career out of talking to the imaginary people that live in her head.
Website * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram * Amazon * Goodreads
My Review
5 stars
Vanessa and Triton at the daughter and son of Poseidon. One of them will inherit the throne. Triton just goes through the motions of training taking a half-hearted approach. He would rather have fun than focus. Vanessa on the other hand wants nothing more than to rule and puts her whole heart and soul into training. Vanessa’s past and a conflict end up turning her against her brother. This is the story of the sea witch Ursula.
I find it amazing how as a kid I loved the Little Mermaid and wanted to be her. Of course Ursula scared me but I find as I grow older that I am curious at what made some of the villains. Rise of the Sea Witch is the story of Ursula. She is known as Vanessa and wants nothing more than her father’s approval. But he seems to only have eyes for Triton. She is so above and beyond patient but with everything she goes through I can’t help but understand where she is going to end.
This is an amazing story that easily fits into the Little Mermaid with her friends and even how her song is referenced. I love author’s that can write such compelling stories that you know are going to end badly but done in such a way you feel for the characters. This is the first book in the Unfortunately Soul Chronicles series. I can’t wait to see what is going to happen next.
I received Rise of the Sea Witch from Silver Dagger Book Tours for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.