It feels like a long time coming, especially since I wrote the first draft of this book in 2009. So it's a little surreal to see it as an actual book, living somewhere other than on my hard drive.
As I've mentioned numerous times, I work full-time, so what does glamorous release day entail? Not much-- it's the same as any other day. Outside my family, not many people in my real world know or care that I write, so I will not get my Book Birthday Crown. Wah. That's okay, after five other book releases, I've stiffened my upper lip.
Anyway, here it is, and there it goes. Thank you to all of those who have supported me by buying my books and helped me to make this latest dream a reality. Because I never forget that, despite the lack of hoopla and shiny tiaras. It still is a dream, even after all these years.
About DROWNED:
Coe is one of the few remaining teenagers on the island of Tides. Deformed and weak, she is constantly reminded that in a world where dry land dwindles at every high tide, she is not welcome. The only bright spot in her harsh and difficult life is the strong, capable Tiam—but love has long ago been forgotten by her society. The only priority is survival.
Until the day their King falls ill, leaving no male heir to take his place. Unrest grows, and for reasons Coe cannot comprehend, she is invited into the privileged circle of royal aides. She soon learns that the dying royal is keeping a secret that will change their world forever.
Is there an escape from the horrific nightmare that their island home has become? Coe must race to find the answers and save the people she cares about, before their world and everything they know is lost to the waters.
Praise for DROWNED:
“Despite the presence of royalty and two hunky boys, Drowned is not your average post-apocalyptic fantasy romance. The unusual setting of a human settlement on the brink of collapse and several simmering background mysteries . . . keep the pages turning.” – Booklist
“Full of suspense, romance, and mystery, Drowned is a thrilling read that will appeal to fans of dystopian adventures.” – VOYA
“An atmospheric, uneasy tale of survival.” – Kirkus
“Suspense mounts as Coe and Tiam explore the labyrinth beneath the royal palace and the mysteries of their island’s past. A fantasy twist toward the end of this series opener from Reilly fits perfectly with the fairy tales Coe retells throughout the novel.” – Publisher’s Weekly
“This suspenseful and dramatic tale will make readers feel just as trapped as Coe feels by the rising tides. Coe is an interesting and well-developed character that teens will root for every step of the way, and the other inhabitants of her island provide foils and allies alike. The book ends on a cliff-hanger, and readers will clamor for a sequel.” – School Library Journal
"This is a world like you've never seen before but with themes and issues that strike surprisingly close to home. A thrilling, brilliant read!" -- Aprilynne Pike, NYT Bestselling Author of Wings
"A resourceful and smart heroine and a society literally on the edge of survival. Take a deep breath. Once you start reading, you won't be able to stop!" -- Maria V. Snyder, NYT Bestselling Author of Poison Study
"A gripping and romantic tale featuring a truly original heroine facing seemingly insurmountable odds. I loved it!" -- Morgan Rhodes, NYT Bestselling Author of Fallen Kingdoms
