10 August SFF book releases that will end your summer reading on a high note

Sea Witch Rising by Sarah Henning

Sarah Henning’s Sea Witch Rising is another book set at sea, though this sequel follows the villain origin story set up in Sea Witch. A darker and more twisted take on The Little Mermaid, Henning’s series is perfect for SFF readers who enjoy retellings — an in particular, retellings that examine the story through a new lens.

When Sea Witch Rising opens, Alia has traded her voice to the Sea Witch in exchange for a chance to convince her beloved prince to love her back. Unfortunately, she fails in that pursuit. And unless Alia’s twin sister, Runa, does something to help her, the prince’s rejection will result in Alia’s death.

Meanwhile, Evie the Sea Witch wants nothing more than to be liberated from her role beneath the sea. But she’s unsure she’s willing to make the sacrifices necessary to achieve her freedom, especially with so much at stake. She’ll need to decide whether she’s willing to make the necessary exchange quickly though — and she’ll likely cross paths with Runa in the process.

Told in alternating perspectives between Runa and Evie, Sea Witch Rising explores how much people are willing to sacrifice for those they love — and for themselves. It arrived on August 6, though its impact is sure to extend far beyond its release date.