Venessa Vida Kelley’s When the Tides Held the Moon is a stunning novel that swept me away with its breathtaking prose, unforgettable characters, and deeply moving exploration of love, identity, and belonging. Set in the early 20th century, the story follows Benny Caldera, a Puerto Rican blacksmith whose talent earns him a place among an eccentric found family of sideshow performers at Coney Island’s Luna Park. But nothing could prepare him for Río, the living, breathing merman trapped inside the iron tank Benny built—a being as mesmerizing as he is otherworldly. Their connection is immediate and undeniable, setting Benny on a journey of self-discovery and love that feels as magical as a fairytale and as heartbreaking as real life.

Benny’s story is one of resilience, navigating the challenges of being a brown Puerto Rican man in 1910s New York while also coming to terms with his queer identity. His tenderness, sensitivity, and quiet strength made him such an easy character to love, and experiencing his world through his eyes—his first time away from home, the racism he endures, and the joy of finding community—was both beautiful and cathartic. Kelley’s attention to Puerto Rican culture is nothing short of outstanding, from the inclusion of the cuatro (Puerto Rico’s national instrument) to the accurate Puerto Rican slang and phrases that felt like a love letter to our heritage. Every detail warmed my heart, and I found myself tearing up more than once at the sheer authenticity of it all. And then there’s Río—mystical, hypnotic, and full of wisdom—who is the perfect counterpart to Benny, their love unfolding in a way that is tender, poetic, and unforgettable.

This book gave me The Shape of Water vibes with the heart of The Greatest Showman and even a touch of Free Willy. It’s a story of love, freedom, and the courage it takes to do what’s right, even when it means risking everything. The found family aspect was just as strong as the romance, with Benny’s sideshow companions bringing so much warmth and richness to the narrative. The gorgeous illustrations scattered throughout only enhanced the experience, making the world feel even more vivid. Finding queer books with authentic Puerto Rican representation is rare, and When the Tides Held the Moon is an absolute treasure. I loved every second of it, and I know this story will stay with me for a long, long time.

Out on April 29th!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5