[ ARC Review ] Wicked Sea and Sky

ARC Review: Wicked Sea and Sky

Author: Jenna Collett

Series: Curse of Ever #1

Publication Date: June 23, 2025

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

First Thoughts

I really enjoyed this book! I was wary at first since I’m usually not into books inspired by fairytales, but it was excellent! I had no idea it was possible to combine The Little Mermaid with Jack and the Beanstalk, but this author did it. Add to that a wonderfully unique original story and the end product is just a really good time! I’m so grateful to have been given this ARC since it is something I might not have otherwise thought to read. I’m adding it to my favorites list and I’ll be looking into more works by this author ASAP.

Minor Spoilers

I went into this book without reading back over the description first. I had read the description when I originally applied for the ARC, but it had been a while. This meant I really didn’t know where the book was going, or who the MMC would even be. I was really enjoying it that way, however I couldn’t help but look it up after I got started because I hate not knowing for sure which male character I should fall for! That being said, if you’d prefer to go into this blind, then I do not recommend reading this review. I will not spoil anything major, but you will learn basic plot points and characters without giving too much away.

Jenna Collett

I had not previously read anything by this author, but this book made me a fan. It’s obvious she just truly understands the romantasy genre, and all the things I love about it. She is descriptive, but not boring. I was captivated from the start. But most of all, she clearly knows what we all want in an MMC. The devotion, the yearning, the heartache. This author portrayed it all so well.

Trigger Warning

I would consider Wicked Sea and Sky to be a pretty light/medium read for the most part. However, our FMC was in captivity for three years. She was also forced to do dangerous prison labor during that time, and throughout the book, we see how this trauma has affected her. If this seems like something that might trigger you, you might want to be prepared for that going into this story.

Duel 1st Person POV

We begin with Marin’s POV leading up to her disappearance. The addition of Gavin’s POV is introduced so brilliantly just when we as readers need to learn more of his story. Sometimes when an author writes in multiple points of view, I have moments when I think, “I really wish she would’ve written this in the other character’s point of view.” I can’t remember a single instance of that while reading this book. It just flowed so perfectly.

The Plot

Marin Nichols and Gavin Blackwood are treasure hunting partners, until she is seemingly betrayed by him, as well as an evil Sea Witch. This leaves her locked away in an underwater prison, not to mention – A MERMAID. When she is given a chance at freedom after three years, she is quick to take the opportunity. This involves finding her way to a supposedly mythical land above the clouds in search of an artifact that will save the underwater kingdom, thus securing a pardon from the Sea Queen. Unfortunately, this means going back home and running into her old treasure hunting team, including Gavin, who she blames for the years she spent imprisoned. Gavin schemes his way onto her mission, and drama, not to mention humor, romance, and adventure, ensues.

The Romance

We don’t have to wait long for all the feels in this book. Our MMC, Gavin, has got it BAD. And he doesn’t hide it, at least not well. Our FMC believes she can’t trust him, so is more reserved about her feelings for him at first.

“What can I say? I’m a man of simple pleasures. And when steaming pools of crystal clear water are involved, you’re always welcome to join me.” “I think I prefer the spikes.”

Wicked Sea and Sky
Jenna Collett

It was so sweet getting to read Gavin’s POV and learn his truths and how he feels about her. We get yearning and heartache, and it makes for such a beautiful love story.

“What are you doing?” “Holding you.” “Why?” “Because I had a shit night, Marin. And I need you…”

Wicked Sea and Sky
Jenna Collett

The banter is to die for. We have two very strong, witty main characters, so you can probably imagine their insults and arguments are hilariously entertaining.

“You’ll pay for that,” I vowed through clenched teeth.” “Don’t tempt me with a good time, Mare. You know I’ll collect.”

Wicked Sea and Sky
Jenna Collett

Spice?

Yes! We get a couple of spicy scenes toward the end of the book, and it adds beautifully to the love story. These scenes are not super long or insanely detailed, but are definitely spicy, and fit the story perfectly.

“That’s my girl,” Gavin murmured, his voice wrecked with praise. “The one who clawed her way back from the sea.”

Wicked Sea and Sky
Jenna Collett

Recommend? YES

If you love romantasy, banter, yearning, true love, and devotion, I highly recommend Wicked Sea and Sky.