Tress of the Emerald Sea: A Cosmere Novel (Secret Projects)

I normally don't mind short chapters but these ones felt choppy to me and it took a while to get into the story. Once I did? A fantastical and (mostly) wholesome time was had.

Great book with a great hero!!! Tress is an amazing character. I wish parts 5 and 6 didn’t read as the author just wanted to finish the book, but I still loved this book.

5 stars - I had been waiting to read this for months and it definitely lived up to the hype! Thoroughly enjoyed Tress’s adventure and loved the world building Sanderson did. Beautifully written, I’m looking forward to reading more from the Cosmere.

Tress of the Emerald Sea invites you onto a ship and lets you drift through an adventure filled with wonder. Tress begins with a small and simple life on an isolated island. She collects cups and listens to sailor stories. Her simple existence falls apart when she sets out across dangerous spore seas in search of someone for her father to marry. What follows is a story about self-discovery. The journey becomes a series of encounters with strange creatures, odd allies, and lessons that feel gently placed. The pacing moves at a slower rhythm than most epic fantasies. Large stretches follow Tress as she travels, observes, and learns. That wandering structure gives the book a softer tone that often reads closer to middle grade than high-stakes adult fantasy. Readers looking for constant action may feel that lull. Readers open to exploration and character growth will find something charming in it. Tress carries the story with her kindness and curiosity. She adapts, listens, and builds connections with an ever-expanding cast. The number of characters grows quickly with each interaction adding a new layer to the world. Even with an expansive cast, you never feel your focus pulled away from Tress's story. Watching her step into her own confidence becomes the true adventure. The audiobook adds warmth to the experience. Michael Kramer brings a steady and expressive narration that helps distinguish a large cast without overwhelming the listener. His delivery suits the tone of the story and keeps the pacing engaging even when the plot slows. The ending lands with a quiet sense of fulfillment. Tress chooses a life shaped by her own decisions rather than the one expected of her. It feels fitting for a story rooted in curiosity and self-direction. This is a gentle fantasy with imaginative worldbuilding, a lovable lead, and a journey that values growth over spectacle. While it does not deliver constant momentum, it does offer something more reflective in its place.

utterly delightful! very obviously a love letter, passion project, whimsical adventure