Day’s YA: BREAK WIDE THE SEA

BREAK WIDE THE SEA by Sara Holland
9781250854490
11/11/25
Wednesday Books
Ages 13-18

Egalley available on Edelweiss and NetGalley

The Fairfax Whaling Company is the Fairfax family’s life work and mission, and Annie Fairfax is the heir to the whaling empire. The people of Kirkrell need whale magic, and for many years, Annie’s family has provided it. Whaleblood has healing properties and can be used to restore the sick and wounded, the oil from the blubber will keep a person warm in even the most bitter cold, and the meat will fill a hungry belly with just one bite. Despite the ever decreasing whale population, Annie is determined to lead the company and continue her family’s legacy.

But Annie is also hiding a dangerous secret. She’s been cursed by finfolk—bloodthirsty fae who lurk in the seas; a curse that slowly turns her into a monster each time she experiences heartbreak. After Annie’s parents died in a shipwreck six years ago, Annie is left with scales crawling up her arms and claws growing from her fingertips. Despite the love she feels from her fiancé, August, the curse is worsening. And when she learns that August is plotting to steal the company from her, she fears she may be running out of time. So she strikes a deal with Silas, a disreputable Fairfax captain rumored to be half-finfolk. He claims that he can take her to the finfolk queen and have the curse lifted, but only if she promises to dissolve the company and end whaling forever. As Annie, August, Silas, and the rest of the crew sail north on a voyage that will change all of their lives forever, Annie is torn between trusting Silas and saving herself, or turning into a monster to save her family’s legacy.

Stephanie Garber says “Sara Holland is a fierce storyteller,” and I wholeheartedly agree. This tale took me on an epic journey through the high seas, full of dark waters and even darker secrets. Not to mention the emotional journey as Annie discovers that everything she’s been taught about legacy and love might not be as true as she thought. The genres here are blended expertly, with horror, folklore, fantasy, and romance each getting their time to shine. And Sara Holland’s worldbuilding skills are unmatched— whether we were aboard the Heralder or in one of the port cities along the way to the arctic, I was right there with Annie, fully immersed in the adventure. If you’re looking for a book with the atmospheric writing and historical seafaring vibes of FABLE by Adrienne Young or the high-concept romantasy of HEARTLESS HUNTER by Kristen Ciccarelli, this book is sure to sweep you to sea and take your breath away.

“The writing is rich and immersive, the pacing sharp, and the characters are deeply compelling . . . An extraordinary work teeming with magic, intrigue, and strong emotion.” —Kirkus Reviews

Happy reading!
<3 Emily

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