Sweet Black Waves by Kristina Perez -- Review

Title: Sweet Black Waves 
Author: Kristina Perez 
Pages: 448 
Publishing: June 5th 2018 by Imprint

Synopsis: 

Not you without me, not me without you.

Two proud kingdoms stand on opposite shores, with only a bloody history between them. 

As best friend and lady-in-waiting to the princess, Branwen is guided by two principles: devotion to her homeland and hatred for the raiders who killed her parents. When she unknowingly saves the life of her enemy, he awakens her ancient healing magic and opens her heart. Branwen begins to dream of peace, but the princess she serves is not so easily convinced. Fighting for what's right, even as her powers grow beyond her control, will set Branwen against both her best friend and the only man she's ever loved. 

Inspired by the star-crossed tale of Tristan and Eseult, this is the story of the legend’s true heroine: Branwen. For fans of Graceling and The Mists of Avalon, this is the first book of a lush fantasy trilogy about warring countries, family secrets, and forbidden romance.

Review: 

Ok, WOW. This was totally not what I was expecting... in a really good way. I thought this was just going to be another YA fantasy retelling that was just like every other book I've read. BUT IT WASN'T AT ALL. It starts out a little innocent and juvenile, but it quickly turns into an amazing drama filled and entertaining read. I absolutely loooooved Branwen's character and Essie, eh I could take her or leave her. She was pretty annoying to be honest, but that's how her character is supposed to seem so, I'll let that one slide. Tristan was also such an interesting character and he always gave me that "too good to be true" feeling. I let you find out if that feeling was accurate or not! 

All in all, Sweet Black Waves was a wonderful surprise and I can't wait to read book two in this series. I would highly recommend this novel to readers who love YA retellings and YA fantasy. Thank you to Fierce Reads and NetGalley for sending this novel in exchange for an honest review. 

Rating 4/5