despite really enjoying my time with this book, I feel like I can't rate it much higher than a solid 3. I really loved the characters individually, but the main couple felt a bit forced... it felt more like insta-love, with no real substance of chemistry, which is a bit disappointing.

on a positive note, the manifestations of the Sea were amazing, whimsical and poetic... viewing the Sea as an ancient, wise mother was super enjoyable and each time she had her own chapter, I was immediately invested!
very good representation of non-binary characters as well!!