“A searing contemporary novel about an Indigenous teen who utilizes her spiritual connection with the sea to save her home . . . Eloquent language weaves together frank portrayals of individual strife, community upheaval, and the devastating ripple effects of colonial violence, while mesmerizing mythology adds riveting layers to the brilliantly rendered character arcs and conflict. This is a marvel.”
—Publishers Weekly, starred review

“This debut by Indigenous author Heinrich, who’s of Ma’ohi/French Polynesian origin, is fresh and entrancing, with the mystery surrounding Sabine’s disappearance, the magical connection Moe has to Moana, and intriguing information about the impact of France’s nuclear testing on the islands’ residents. A riveting and original page-turner centering on beautifully realized characters.”
—Kirkus Reviews, starred review

“Complex, emotionally resonant relationships heighten the well-paced suspense, and Heinrich achieves an excellent balance between informative and entertaining. A gripping Polynesian mystery laced with Indigenous cultural knowledge, for fans of Angeline Boulley and Ari Tison.”
—SLJ, starred review

“Salt Water Blood is a triumphant tidal wave of a book; a compelling mystery wrapped in a searing tale about family, siblings, culture and community. Listen to me and the sea, and let this incredible book sweep you away.”
—Dhonielle Clayton, author of The Marvellers

“Packed with Indigenous lore, murder, and suspense, Salt Water Blood is a must-read. Heinrich’s haunting YA debut drags you into a dangerous undertow of secrets and swells toward a breathless conclusion.”
—Keala Kendall, author of That Which Feeds Us

“Salt Water Blood is a page turner, detective story and mystery . . . a marvel . . . Bravo Manuia Heinrich. Mauruuru ia ‘oe.” 
—Célestine Hitiura Vaite, author of Frangipani

“Salt Water Blood will pull you under. A sister’s determination to save her brother anchors this mystery rich in island lore, activism, and tender first love. Like the story’s magical grocery store, Manuia Heinrich’s debut gives you exactly what you need.”
—Katie Bernet, author of Beth Is Dead

“Rich in atmosphere and island lore, one can almost taste the grilled fish and soursop juice and hear the Vespa motoring up and down the inland roads. I was rooting for the smart, independent Moe . . . I still am. A compelling mystery and a deeply moving story about family, duty, and the ties that bind one, for better or worse, to one’s home.”
—Makiia Lucier, author of Dragonfruit 

“Salt Water Blood is a story of identity, belonging and the enduring relationship between our people and the ocean. Manuia honours the strength and resilience of Ma’ohi communities while courageously confronting the lasting legacy of colonialism and nuclear testing. A powerful reminder that our Moana carries not only the stories of our past, but also the hope and responsibility of our future.”
—Moemoana Safa’ato’a Schwenke, author of I Love My Island

“Equal parts salt-soaked mystery and poignant meditation on the ways colonialism echoes into the present at the cost of Indigenous communities, Salt Water Blood will sweep you away. Manuia Heinrich is a radiant new voice in YA fiction.”
—Clare Edge, author of Natural Selection

“With mystery that runs as deep and ancient as the sea, a vibrant island setting, and an ending you won’t see coming, Salt Water Blood draws you into the murky waters of family loyalty, duty, and secrets that, even in paradise, lurk just below the surface. Prepare to stay up way too late reading!”
—Ginny Myers Sain, author of Dark and Shallow Lies