Salt & Storm by Kendall Kulper is a beautifully crafted novel that combines elements of historical fiction, fantasy, and romance. Set on the remote island of By-the-Sea, the story follows the journey of Avery Roe, a young witch desperate to break free from her controlling mother and claim her birthright as the island’s next Roe witch.

As the daughter of the current Roe witch, Avery is expected to follow in her mother’s footsteps and fulfill her role as the island’s healer and protector. However, Avery has her sights set on a different path – she dreams of becoming the island’s tattoo artist, a trade reserved for men. But with her mother’s tight grip on her powers and her future, Avery struggles to find her own identity and make her own choices.

When tragedy strikes and Avery’s mother falls ill, Avery is faced with a series of challenges that force her to confront her own beliefs and face her fears. With the help of a mysterious tattoo artist named Tane, Avery must navigate the dangerous waters of her family’s history and uncover the secrets that have been hidden for generations.

Kulper’s writing is captivating and lyrical, drawing readers into the expansive world of By-the-Sea with its rich history and vivid imagery. The novel is steeped in atmosphere, with its misty shores, dark forests, and ancient myths adding an enchanting layer to Avery’s journey.

The characters are well-developed and complex, each with their own motivations and desires. Avery is a strong and fiercely independent protagonist, grappling with her own struggles and vulnerabilities as she comes into her own as a witch and as a woman. Tane is a compelling and enigmatic figure, whose mysterious past and connection to Avery adds an intriguing element to the story.

Salt & Storm is a tale of secrets, betrayal, and redemption, weaving together themes of family, power, and love. With its vivid storytelling and compelling characters, Kendall Kulper’s novel is a must-read for fans of fantasy and historical fiction.