I truly love the legends of King Arthur. Besides King Arthur himself, there are so many intriguing characters and tales in this mythology. Some of my favorite books are fresh takes on these legends, and “Sweet Black Waves” by Kristina Perez is no exception. This novel, which came out on June 5th, reinterprets the story of Tristan and Iseult. The book uses an alternate spelling, Eseult.
The tale of Tristan and Iseult is about two lovers who weren’t supposed to be together. Iseult, a princess from Iveriu, is meant to marry King Mark, Tristan’s uncle, to bring peace to their lands. However, a mix-up with a love potion causes her and Tristan to fall in love. It’s usually depicted as a romance we’re meant to support, despite the complications.
“Sweet Black Waves” offers a fresh perspective. The story is told from the viewpoint of Branwen, Eseult’s cousin. Branwen’s parents were killed by Kerntvak raiders, and she now lives with her aunt and uncle. The queen teaches her the healing arts and magic. As Branwen becomes more skilled, she grapples with her abilities.
One day, she discovers a dying man washed ashore. Despite realizing he’s an enemy, she heals him and helps him escape from the Royal Guard. This man is actually Prince Tristan, who has come to secure Eseult’s hand for his uncle. As Eseult prepares to travel to marry King Mark, Branwen and Tristan fall in love and secretly plan their own future together. But in trying to secure Eseult’s happiness with a love potion, their journey takes a heartbreaking twist.
In this retelling, Branwen is the main character, showing us the story through her eyes. Eseult, or Essy, is a sweet but somewhat spoiled young princess who dreams of a love as grand as in stories. Branwen cares deeply for her, despite finding her actions frustrating at times. Their close, sister-like bond is beautifully depicted, complete with arguments and affection.
Tristan emerges as a loyal and determined character, devoted to his uncle and the cause of peace between the battling nations. Despite the animosity he faces in Iveriu, he remains composed and shows his softer side through music.
Branwen’s strength is unique. She’s deeply loyal to her people and family, willing to sacrifice everything for their safety. She embraces her path as a healer, taught by her aunt, and discovers not only a gift for healing but also a dangerous power to kill. This revelation terrifies her. Her unexpected love for Tristan complicates things further, especially as she learns that she’s destined to protect the land, a role she finds daunting.
If you enjoy tales of star-crossed lovers and bittersweet romances, “Sweet Black Waves” might be your kind of story. The romance between Branwen and Tristan is sincere and poignant, growing despite their tragic backgrounds. Their relationship is a journey from enemies to friends to lovers, marked by a mutual goal of achieving peace above their own happiness.
Reading “Sweet Black Waves,” I was captivated by Kristina Perez’s rich and mesmerizing world. It felt both familiar and entirely new. The characters are dynamic and engaging, and even knowing the inevitable outcome, the journey there is immensely satisfying. Fans of King Arthur tales, star-crossed lovers’ stories, and enemies-to-lovers romances should definitely give this book a try.
