A Dark and Drowning Tide: By Allison Saft (Book Review)

Allison Saft’s A Dark and Drowning Tide marks the author’s adult debut, weaving together a compelling blend of dark fantasy, folklore, romance, and mystery. The novel has garnered attention for its atmospheric storytelling, slow-burn romance, and detailed world-building. Set against a backdrop of German-inspired folklore, the novel explores themes of grief, academic rivalry, and a murder mystery that unfolds across a tense, expeditionary setting. Below is a closer look at the key aspects of the novel, based on multiple reviews.

Plot Overview and Setting

At the heart of A Dark and Drowning Tide is Lorelei Kaskel, a sharp-tongued folklorist who reluctantly leads an expedition after the murder of her mentor. Tasked with solving this mystery, Lorelei finds herself at odds with Sylvia von Wolff, her academic rival and unlikely partner in the investigation. The plot thickens as the pair must unravel the secrets of the expedition, while also grappling with personal and political stakes. Saft’s world is a richly imagined one, where forests shift, rivers hide dragons, and ancient folklore becomes a powerful narrative device. The gloomy, magical setting adds to the immersive experience of the novel, making it a perfect read for fans of atmospheric fantasy​.

Folklore and World-Building

Saft’s novel stands out for its intricate use of folklore. Lorelei’s role as a folklorist not only frames the mystery but also gives depth to the story as folklore becomes both a source of knowledge and a way for the characters to understand the world around them. The concept of the ‘wildeleute’—folklore-inspired creatures—adds another layer to the narrative. However, some readers felt that these elements, while interesting, could have been developed further. The novel’s world-building is both whimsical and eerie, although the frequent use of German-inspired terms, such as “wildeleute” and “ursprung,” may slow down the pacing for some readers​.

Character Development

Lorelei and Sylvia’s dynamic is a key driver of the novel. The enemies-to-lovers trope between the two unfolds slowly, which some readers found endearing, while others felt the romance was underwhelming and lacked sufficient development in the first half of the novel. Sylvia, with her unbridled longing and complexity, has been highlighted as a standout character, while Lorelei’s abrasive personality made it difficult for some readers to fully connect with her. The supporting characters, unfortunately, don’t receive as much attention, and their motivations remain somewhat vague throughout the book​.

Romance and Mystery

While the novel is marketed as a sapphic fantasy romance, the romantic elements are very much a slow burn, and the murder mystery takes precedence for a large portion of the narrative. The tension between Lorelei and Sylvia builds gradually, but for some readers, the romantic payoff felt rushed, with the emotional connection between the characters not fully explored. The murder mystery itself is intriguing, but the resolution was seen as lacking in depth, with some readers feeling that the reveal of the killer came too suddenly​.

Themes of Grief and Identity

One of the novel’s stronger aspects is its exploration of grief and personal identity. Lorelei’s journey of self-discovery, as she navigates the pressures of her Jewish heritage and her desire to break free from societal constraints, is well-executed. This emotional journey adds weight to the novel’s romantic and political undertones, making it more than just a simple fantasy adventure​.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The novel’s strengths lie in its atmospheric world, creative use of folklore, and the emotional depth of Lorelei’s personal journey. However, its weaknesses include pacing issues and a romance that doesn’t fully develop until the latter half. For those who enjoy a rich, moody fantasy with a touch of romance and mystery, A Dark and Drowning Tide will appeal, though it may not satisfy readers seeking fast-paced action or a more central love story​.

Conclusion

Allison Saft’s A Dark and Drowning Tide is a novel that will resonate with fans of slow-burn fantasy and those who appreciate a richly layered atmosphere. It may not be for everyone, especially readers looking for a more intricate mystery or a more fully developed romance, but its immersive world and deep emotional exploration offer much to appreciate.

Also Read: Tell Me Everything: By Elizabeth Strout (Book Review)