When the Tides Held the Moon

Set in turn-of-the-20th-century New York, this queer historical cozy fantasy follows Puerto Rican immigrant Benny Caldera as he joins a Coney Island sideshow and discovers a captured merman named Río. As their friendship deepens into love, Benny faces challenging choices about captivity and freedom, exploring themes of self-discovery and bravery. Richly described and emotionally engaging, the story blends historical charm with a fantastical, compassionate tale.