The people of Portscatho are bound to traditions and to the sea, living side by side with the spirits, gods and monsters. When Kensa and her half-sister come across a dying sea beast, Kensa is quick to claim credit for the discovery and in doing so steals her sister’s position as apprentice to the local wise woman. It seems an appropriate station for Kensa, who has always existed out of step with the others in the village. Yet to be a wise woman is to be alone. Kensa’s only real company is her mentor, the wise woman Isolde. But Isolde won’t live forever and when she falls ill, Kensa will do anything to save her and retain her newfound elevation within the community. Even if that means having to seek help from the Bucka, a terrifying and unfathomable sea god who guards the tides around Portscatho. In doing so, she’ll risk her life, her family and everything she’s sworn to protect.