Released: 1st May 2014
Publisher: Hachette Childrens Books
Series: Yes #1 in the Waterfire Saga
Format: Digital ARC
Source: From Netgalley for review
Find At: Goodreads | Amazon UK | The Book Depository
Author Site: Jennifer Donnelly
Many thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for my review copy, this is in exchange for an honest review.
Goodreads Synopsis:
Waterfire Saga is an epic new series set in the depths of the ocean where six mermaids seek to save their world.
Written by Carnegie Medal winning author of A Gathering Light, Jennifer Donnelly.
When Serafina, a mermaid of the Mediterranean Sea, awakens on the morning of her betrothal, her biggest worry should be about reuniting with handsome Prince Mahdi, her childhood crush. Instead she finds herself haunted by strange dreams foretelling the return of an ancient evil, and dealing with the deaths of her parents as assassins storm the betrothal ceremony, plunging the city into chaos.
Led only by her shadowy dreams and pursued by the invading army, Serafina and her best friend Neela embark on a quest to avenge her parents' death and prevent a war between the mer nations. In the process they discover a plot that threatens their - and our - world's very existence.
My Review
I first heard about this fabulous book when I went to the Book with Bite event back in the beginning of the year. The plot line really captured my attention and I had it down on my wishlist. I was really thrilled to be able to review this one. It sounded just perfect for me.
When you first read this you have to consume quite a bit of world building, I will also warn you that there are quite a few names and references to remember, this can be a little dragging at times. I think this is the main reason why I didn't give this book top marks. I like the story to be able to flow for me, but this didn't happen because of this.
I think because of all the hype surrounding this book I may have been a bit critical of it. I think perhaps I felt there was something missing and at times I did find I struggled to connect with this book. But aside from that I do think it is worthy of a read and I would recommend it if you quite fancy reading a book with mermaids.
The start was brilliant, really had me gripped, the middle was ok and the ending was great. Maybe felt a little disjointed in places but I think perhaps it may be needing a second read to get my head around all the world building and jargon. I did at times feel the main character was a bit silly, but once I got in to the story I ignored it a little.
Overall I think it was an interesting read and I would certainly like to read book two in the series when it comes out.
My Thoughts on the Cover
It certainly captures my attention. It really is a pretty and spectacular cover that can only positively enhance the book.
Overall
An underwater adventure not to be missed
2 comments:
To me the cover is beautiful. I really loved it. :-)
Anna from Shout with Emaginette
Yes it is quite pretty Anna. Many thanks for your comment :) Jenny
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