An enchanting fairytale of love, transformation, and quiet strength, The Sea-Bear’s Wife swept me away with its tender romance and emotional depth.
Title: The Sea-Bear’s Wife
Author: Eliza Prokopovits
Series: Regency Magic Faerie Tales
Genre: Historical Fiction, Fantasy
Rating: 5 out of 5 ⭐
Disclaimer
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I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
My Thoughts:
I really, really enjoyed The Sea-Bear’s Wife! I picked it up after my book club mentioned it, and from the first few chapters, I had a hard time putting it down.
Nora comes from a large, poor family, and when she sees a bear watching her from the forest near her home, she somehow knows she’s not in danger. The sense of curiosity and calm acceptance around this moment surprised me at first—but it fits perfectly within the story’s fairytale magic.
Eventually, the bear makes a proposal to her family: he asks for Nora’s hand in marriage—in name only. Once everything is arranged, she sets off with him for his secluded home.
This is where the story truly hooked me. Their relationship develops slowly through acts of mutual care and growing trust. Nora manages the household while Alek disappears for stretches of time, wrestling with his mysterious curse. But as the story unfolds, we realize his situation is far more complicated than it first appears.
As their bond deepens, I found myself emotionally invested, desperate to know—would the curse ever be broken? Would they ever get to be together as their true selves?
Beyond the fantasy and romance, what stood out most was the depth of character development. Nora’s quiet strength, compassion, and adaptability as she grows into her new life contrast beautifully with Alek’s journey of learning to think beyond himself. Watching him realize how to be a better partner—more aware, more selfless—was deeply moving.
A wonderful adventure filled with emotion, heart, and growth. By the final page, I knew I’d be diving into the rest of the series immediately.
Publisher’s Blurb:
As a poor laundress’s daughter and the eldest of eight siblings, Nora Sheppard doesn’t have much for marriage prospects, but she never expects a proposal from a giant white bear. When his offer is accompanied by a promise of financial support—and education—for her siblings, she can’t refuse. They travel northward through Scotland, and by the time they arrive at their private cottage in the Hebrides, she has become Mrs. Davies, or more accurately, Lady Aurand.
Alek Davies, Lord Aurand, had no intention of marrying. He was content with his role as one of the biggest flirts in London society. But when he flirted with the wrong lady and wound up cursed, his plans changed. Now, if he ever wants to be fully human again—and avoid spending eternity in Faerie—all his hopes depend on his new wife.
The question is, can Nora do what Pandora and Bluebeard’s wife failed to do? Can she keep from looking at what is forbidden?
Enjoy this YA retelling of “East of the Sun, West of the Moon,” set in a Regency England where Faeries are real and magic is an acceptable accomplishment for young ladies.
The Regency Magic Faerie Tales are clean and cozy YA romantasy fairy tale retellings. Each is a standalone with a happily ever after, and they can be read in any order.
Where to Buy:
Final Thoughts:
With its mix of folklore, slow-burn love, and beautifully layered characters, this story is a captivating reminder that sometimes the bravest thing we can do is open our hearts to the impossible.
Would you marry a cursed creature if it meant saving your family—or discovering a love that changes everything?
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