naiapard's review against another edition
3.0
Disclaimer: I received this book from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
Shall we dive straight in? (yes, the pun was intended)
There are two main characters. The reader gets to see the perspective of both Isaura and Leonel as they intermediately appear, one chapter after the other.
The book opens with Isaura`s POV as she is crossing the sea. She is a healer (I got some serious vibes of the Outlander season four) that behaves more than well with the crew (there is a serious description on that part, on how nice she is and how everybody likes her to the moon and back).
And then, the storm happens. Their ship submerges. But, Isaura is the only survivor. How? Was she an exceptionally good swimmer? Or had she had the sense to wear something lighter than a full skirt and petticoats on a boat, so she wouldn`t drown in case of falling into the water?
No to all of the above.
She was rescued by the guardian of the sea, the one and only Leonel. He was the last one of his kind. He had a trident. He was the son of the sea goddess that was married to the sea king. He had a conflictual relationship with his stepfather, needlessly to say after you get to hear the way he addressed to Leonel:
“You fuss over waves and wind, son of my wife?” King Ægir had asked, his smile slight, his silver eyes hard beneath his coral crown. “Do you not have enough to do as the guardian of our sea?”
Now, that the main love interested has been identified, let`s see what is the conflict that shall keep us on the edge of our boats--->
Apparently, Leonel got into his head that the storms that kept appearing were not natural. The cause is of mystery, but he feels that something is off. He needs proof to convince the rulers that this is bad and happening.
So, he founds in Isaura a witness. He saves her, gets her to the shore where she is taken into the care of her brother, that held a conveniently high post in that port-town.
After that, he comes back to claim his “debt”. Let`s say that he is not that into subtle because this is the dialogue that goes between those two:
“Is no matter,” he said, terse in a way that suggested the opposite was true. “I am here for the debt.” “What debt?” “I saved your life. Repayment is owed. You will—” “Wait a moment,” she jutted a hand forward. “What do you mean I owe you? I mean, yes, obviously I do owe you my gratitude, but I would’ve died out there.” “Precise.
Somehow, Isaura draws the conclusion that she owns him nothing because her life is priceless (as if). Somehow, the reader is made to buy the part in which she is innocent and he is being a rude “fish” for not being more respectful. But, cmon! He saved her life! The least she could do it was to gather some info for this mystery to be elucidated.
With this point in mind I can enter deeper into the book. The premise, the sketch of the novel is not bad, the cover is really grate, but would I recommend this as the ultimate bombastic siren/mermaid love book?
No. It lacks details that could have made so much more out of it. For example, the two main characters are well contoured, but there is no one else beside them in the book. No other character was high-lightened or given a serious persona, maybe Isaura`s brother got a moment with Leonel`s sister, but that was more of a sloppy execution than a praised manifesto in the craft of writing.
At first sight the characters seem too beguiling. It will be too easy for the lead to prove her superiority by comparison to their background dialogue and unassumed actions. Even the love that was pushed between Isaura and Leonel seemed off:
“I feel…” He wanted to admit that he felt the connection she’d spoken of, but even thinking the words make his skin clammy with fear. “I feel…I should kiss you.” She breathed a laugh. “That’s a good idea.”
There are little tidbits, that should make the characters more, but they end up to be questionable. Why would be of any importance that Isaura had had a fiance previously to meeting Leonel? She could has been as well as, married with other seven people and it wouldn`t have mattered in here.
Isaura’s thumb rubbed at the indent on her finger where her wedding band had rested. She wondered if Jan had retrieved the ring from the floorboards after she’d chucked it at him, if he’d dredged up more emotion than that infuriating calm he had used to tell her it was over.
Over all, please try it if you feel like reading a cute story with a girl that is not a pirate but ends up on ships and a boy that is not the king of the sea, but holds a trident and is its guardian.
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Shall we dive straight in? (yes, the pun was intended)
There are two main characters. The reader gets to see the perspective of both Isaura and Leonel as they intermediately appear, one chapter after the other.
The book opens with Isaura`s POV as she is crossing the sea. She is a healer (I got some serious vibes of the Outlander season four) that behaves more than well with the crew (there is a serious description on that part, on how nice she is and how everybody likes her to the moon and back).
And then, the storm happens. Their ship submerges. But, Isaura is the only survivor. How? Was she an exceptionally good swimmer? Or had she had the sense to wear something lighter than a full skirt and petticoats on a boat, so she wouldn`t drown in case of falling into the water?
No to all of the above.
She was rescued by the guardian of the sea, the one and only Leonel. He was the last one of his kind. He had a trident. He was the son of the sea goddess that was married to the sea king. He had a conflictual relationship with his stepfather, needlessly to say after you get to hear the way he addressed to Leonel:
Now, that the main love interested has been identified, let`s see what is the conflict that shall keep us on the edge of our boats--->
Apparently, Leonel got into his head that the storms that kept appearing were not natural. The cause is of mystery, but he feels that something is off. He needs proof to convince the rulers that this is bad and happening.
So, he founds in Isaura a witness. He saves her, gets her to the shore where she is taken into the care of her brother, that held a conveniently high post in that port-town.
After that, he comes back to claim his “debt”. Let`s say that he is not that into subtle because this is the dialogue that goes between those two:
Somehow, Isaura draws the conclusion that she owns him nothing because her life is priceless (as if). Somehow, the reader is made to buy the part in which she is innocent and he is being a rude “fish” for not being more respectful. But, cmon! He saved her life! The least she could do it was to gather some info for this mystery to be elucidated.
With this point in mind I can enter deeper into the book. The premise, the sketch of the novel is not bad, the cover is really grate, but would I recommend this as the ultimate bombastic siren/mermaid love book?
No. It lacks details that could have made so much more out of it. For example, the two main characters are well contoured, but there is no one else beside them in the book. No other character was high-lightened or given a serious persona, maybe Isaura`s brother got a moment with Leonel`s sister, but that was more of a sloppy execution than a praised manifesto in the craft of writing.
At first sight the characters seem too beguiling. It will be too easy for the lead to prove her superiority by comparison to their background dialogue and unassumed actions. Even the love that was pushed between Isaura and Leonel seemed off:
There are little tidbits, that should make the characters more, but they end up to be questionable. Why would be of any importance that Isaura had had a fiance previously to meeting Leonel? She could has been as well as, married with other seven people and it wouldn`t have mattered in here.
Over all, please try it if you feel like reading a cute story with a girl that is not a pirate but ends up on ships and a boy that is not the king of the sea, but holds a trident and is its guardian.
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plaidpladd's review against another edition
5.0
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book really pulled me in immediately--I haven't stayed up late to finish a book in a long time! The world building was excellent and felt natural, and I liked that this was a plot-forward novel instead of only centered on the relationship like some romances. Both main characters felt real and I liked their dynamic. Plus I am HERE for merman detectives of the sea. I only wish had been shown more before the dramatic reveal. I'm excited to read the sequel!
This book really pulled me in immediately--I haven't stayed up late to finish a book in a long time! The world building was excellent and felt natural, and I liked that this was a plot-forward novel instead of only centered on the relationship like some romances. Both main characters felt real and I liked their dynamic. Plus I am HERE for merman detectives of the sea. I only wish
Spoiler
Kolgaarathenerd's review against another edition
4.0
ARC generously provided by BookSirens in exchange of an honest review.
I’m not gonna say I was expecting to dislike this book, but I definitely didn’t expect to like it as much as I did. In fact, I can’t wait for the next book in the trilogy.
She kept ahold of his hand as they resumed walking. “We aren’t defined only by our failures and sorrows. I’m starting to believe we’re an assortment. A few big events, but countless smaller details. Little joys that carry us through the days, even when those days are hard. I want to know yours.”
The book trapped me almost instantly: we start with Isaura’s side of the story, and we quickly learn that things are going less than ideal for her. She’s trying to get away from the island where she lived with her now ex-husband, when tragedy strikes. A huge storm arrives to the ship she’s in, sinking it with her and the crew in it. But she survives.
Because of some turn of destiny, the universe doesn’t want Isuaura to die just yet.
Leonel is the last of his species: a merman. He’s also the guardian of the sea, it’s protector and defender. Abnormal and dangerous storms have been striking human ships, putting in danger everything and everyone, so he needs to find out what’s going on. In pursuing these answers, Leonel discovers Isaura, the only survivor of the wreck. She may be his only clue to find out the truth.
Sooner than later, these two people form an alliance to both protect the sea and the humans traveling in it.
I really liked Isaura and Leonel’s relationship development. They both arrived to each other’s lives when they needed the most. They both offered valuable lessons to each other about life and themselves, and they grew so much because of it. I loved seeing Leonel learning about love, kindness and happiness. I loved to see Isaura learning her self-worth didn’t depend on what she couldn’t do, but on who she is. The development of these characters and their relationship was nicely built indeed.
While the plot was also great (war between the gods, magic from the sea, different creatures, and was that Nordic mythology?) I think this book mainly lacked in small details, like some things about the world not being well explained, so I kind of feel like I left the book with more questions than I had at the beginning. Or the simplicity of the plan the main characters had built. The execution of how Leonel and Isaura were tying everything to stop the threat coming their way was good but needed a little bit more, to be pushed just a little bit more to the edge. It isn’t until towards the end the stakes are finally settled.
Despite that, the story has a lot of potential, each character earning its place and value in the story, and the story only seems to get more and more interesting. I really want to know what will happen next!
I’m not gonna say I was expecting to dislike this book, but I definitely didn’t expect to like it as much as I did. In fact, I can’t wait for the next book in the trilogy.
She kept ahold of his hand as they resumed walking. “We aren’t defined only by our failures and sorrows. I’m starting to believe we’re an assortment. A few big events, but countless smaller details. Little joys that carry us through the days, even when those days are hard. I want to know yours.”
The book trapped me almost instantly: we start with Isaura’s side of the story, and we quickly learn that things are going less than ideal for her. She’s trying to get away from the island where she lived with her now ex-husband, when tragedy strikes. A huge storm arrives to the ship she’s in, sinking it with her and the crew in it. But she survives.
Because of some turn of destiny, the universe doesn’t want Isuaura to die just yet.
Leonel is the last of his species: a merman. He’s also the guardian of the sea, it’s protector and defender. Abnormal and dangerous storms have been striking human ships, putting in danger everything and everyone, so he needs to find out what’s going on. In pursuing these answers, Leonel discovers Isaura, the only survivor of the wreck. She may be his only clue to find out the truth.
Sooner than later, these two people form an alliance to both protect the sea and the humans traveling in it.
I really liked Isaura and Leonel’s relationship development. They both arrived to each other’s lives when they needed the most. They both offered valuable lessons to each other about life and themselves, and they grew so much because of it. I loved seeing Leonel learning about love, kindness and happiness. I loved to see Isaura learning her self-worth didn’t depend on what she couldn’t do, but on who she is. The development of these characters and their relationship was nicely built indeed.
While the plot was also great (war between the gods, magic from the sea, different creatures, and was that Nordic mythology?) I think this book mainly lacked in small details, like some things about the world not being well explained, so I kind of feel like I left the book with more questions than I had at the beginning. Or the simplicity of the plan the main characters had built. The execution of how Leonel and Isaura were tying everything to stop the threat coming their way was good but needed a little bit more, to be pushed just a little bit more to the edge. It isn’t until towards the end the stakes are finally settled.
Despite that, the story has a lot of potential, each character earning its place and value in the story, and the story only seems to get more and more interesting. I really want to know what will happen next!
melissasfandomworld's review against another edition
5.0
4,5 beautiful stars!
Finishing Beneath Cruel Fathoms had me happy and sad all at once. Happy because it was such a great read and sad because I couldn’t immediately start the second book haha. It’s a book that I thoroughly loved reading and it left me craving more instantly.
There are interesting settings present, on land and beneath the sea surface. I really liked getting to know the world Leonal lived in especially, in the sea. It’s not the typical Atlantis setting, even though the story has some Little Mermaid elements popping up every now and then, but it’s still so enchanting and dark and dangerous from time to time! I haven’t nearly gotten enough of it all and can’t wait to read more about it.
There’s so much awesome elements in this book that I don’t know where to start haha. There’s Norse mythology present, there are Gods present, there are monsters present, sirens and talk of mermen/mermaids. There’s action, adventure and a quest. There are great characters present, amazing character development, and a well developed romance.
The characters are truly interesting in their own way and their character development was just so well done in my opinion. Isaura is a really strong character for example, not only by heart but body as well. I was really surprised to see that she could really kick some ass and liked every bit of development revolving around her so much!
Leonel was maybe even more interesting. He’s a mermen and has lived a brutal and difficult live thus far; not being wanted by anyone really, and being ‘tormented’ by his family (like his half sisters who want to do him harm and a mother who is never in his corner to support him) throughout his life. And despite that, he still has such a good and loyal heart. He fights for the weak. It broke my heart to read about his mental struggles, and it was so beautifully written. His determination to look into the magical storms that are tearing apart his world down below, and fix/fight them, has him crossing paths with Isaura along the way and from then on he’s being set up to make some difficult and life altering choices. His development throughout the book was really really really great and I just love him so dearly. Did I also mention he’s HOT AF? Lol. Sure, he has a tail fin and isn’t human and all that, but still… I’m a mermaid at heart, have always been so my entire life, so I think I’m granted in my feelings towards this character ;)
The forming bond between Isaura and Leonel is beautifully developed and believable. I love how they can be strong characters on themselves but how they can be strong with and for one another as well. It was a joy to follow their unfurling romance/relationship in combination with the banter between the two.
The minor characters were all fun to read about as well and were a great addition to the story. Especially Jurek was one I was really interesting in reading more about (that’s one of the reasons why I can’t wait to read book 2 haha!)
The writing and story-telling was also really great I think. The author’s writing had me hooked right from the very first page and as I said: when I was finished, I immediately wanted more! I was enthralled from beginning till end.
So, there are some cliches present and despite the plot being really fun and well developed, the plot is also a bit predictable at times. But did it trouble me? Not.at.all. The author put in some really fun Little Mermaid elements and gave them a twist, so that it remained being ‘fresh’. I absolutely loved the author's view on this world and the way she gives her own voice to it all.
There really wasn’t a single moment in which I wasn’t enjoying this book. I’m having a hard time to really put into words how much I loved this and why. Basically every element in this book was right for me. From story-telling and plot to the characters and their development as well as the romance.
I received an ARC by the author in exchange for leaving an honest review.
I love it when authors take the time to reach out to readers and I love reading new to me authors. When I got the opportunity to read this book, I just couldn’t pass up on it because the promise of it all was so good. I am beyond excited that I can now say, after reading it, that the book lived up to its expectations and that I found a new author that I cannot wait to read more of. This is a book and author I HIGHLY RECOMMEND to read.
Finishing Beneath Cruel Fathoms had me happy and sad all at once. Happy because it was such a great read and sad because I couldn’t immediately start the second book haha. It’s a book that I thoroughly loved reading and it left me craving more instantly.
“Hunters come. They are- What is your word? They have fin on top.” He made a sharp whistle and jutted his fingers upward and toward his back. “Sharks?” She squeaked. “Is that what you mean?” “Yes, those.” “But you’re stronger than they are, right? You can kill them if they get too close?” “Kill them?” His eyes narrowed. “It is their nature to hunt.” “Is that supposed to matter? They want to eat us.” “They do no wrong. They come because of you. This bleeding.” “Oh well, many apologies. How inconsiderate of me to be injured in a shipwreck.” He made a snort of disdain. “Your kind should not even travel the water. It is not your world and you disturb ours with your crossing.” “And if the great continents weren’t underwater from the Gods’ War millennia ago, we wouldn’t need to, but here we are. Can we resume discussing our shark problem?” “They break no laws. I will not harm them for a dirt walker who should not be here in the first place.” “So, I’m to be fish food? I don’t believe this. You are the worst rescuer in history.” His brow thunderous, he hissed out a breath followed by an orchestra of clicks low in his throat. The sounds held a suspicious lack of courtesy. “That better not be directed at me or I’ll pan-fry your tail fin in butter and garlic.”
There are interesting settings present, on land and beneath the sea surface. I really liked getting to know the world Leonal lived in especially, in the sea. It’s not the typical Atlantis setting, even though the story has some Little Mermaid elements popping up every now and then, but it’s still so enchanting and dark and dangerous from time to time! I haven’t nearly gotten enough of it all and can’t wait to read more about it.
“There may only be the two of us to stop them, but a smart plan can overpower a strong army any day.”
There’s so much awesome elements in this book that I don’t know where to start haha. There’s Norse mythology present, there are Gods present, there are monsters present, sirens and talk of mermen/mermaids. There’s action, adventure and a quest. There are great characters present, amazing character development, and a well developed romance.
The characters are truly interesting in their own way and their character development was just so well done in my opinion. Isaura is a really strong character for example, not only by heart but body as well. I was really surprised to see that she could really kick some ass and liked every bit of development revolving around her so much!
“Who guards the guardian, Leonel? Is there someone who will help you?”
He thought of his cove. The ruined safety. The silence filling his heart. “There is no one.”
Leonel was maybe even more interesting. He’s a mermen and has lived a brutal and difficult live thus far; not being wanted by anyone really, and being ‘tormented’ by his family (like his half sisters who want to do him harm and a mother who is never in his corner to support him) throughout his life. And despite that, he still has such a good and loyal heart. He fights for the weak. It broke my heart to read about his mental struggles, and it was so beautifully written. His determination to look into the magical storms that are tearing apart his world down below, and fix/fight them, has him crossing paths with Isaura along the way and from then on he’s being set up to make some difficult and life altering choices. His development throughout the book was really really really great and I just love him so dearly. Did I also mention he’s HOT AF? Lol. Sure, he has a tail fin and isn’t human and all that, but still… I’m a mermaid at heart, have always been so my entire life, so I think I’m granted in my feelings towards this character ;)
Her steady presence comforted him, her words from the cave alive in his mind. You are not alone. It had filled him with an unfamiliar warmth that left him uncertain. He wanted it to be true, and he didn’t. He was accustomed to being alone. He trusted solitude.
The forming bond between Isaura and Leonel is beautifully developed and believable. I love how they can be strong characters on themselves but how they can be strong with and for one another as well. It was a joy to follow their unfurling romance/relationship in combination with the banter between the two.
’It’s too sweet.” Of course it was. His usual diet wouldn’t include anything made with sugar. No wonder he looked like eating it thrashed his palette. “Yes, very sweet.” With a determined glint in his eyes, he finished chewing the mouthful and swallowed. His pallor took on a greenish cast. She laughed outright. “You hate it.” “No, of course not,” he insisted, eying the pastry like a battlefield he was ready to die on. “It is,” his throat bobbed, “delicious.” When he seemed about to take another bite, she quickly plucked it from his hand. “Stubborn fish. Give it back before you make yourself sick. It’s obvious you don’t like it.”
The minor characters were all fun to read about as well and were a great addition to the story. Especially Jurek was one I was really interesting in reading more about (that’s one of the reasons why I can’t wait to read book 2 haha!)
The writing and story-telling was also really great I think. The author’s writing had me hooked right from the very first page and as I said: when I was finished, I immediately wanted more! I was enthralled from beginning till end.
So, there are some cliches present and despite the plot being really fun and well developed, the plot is also a bit predictable at times. But did it trouble me? Not.at.all. The author put in some really fun Little Mermaid elements and gave them a twist, so that it remained being ‘fresh’. I absolutely loved the author's view on this world and the way she gives her own voice to it all.
There really wasn’t a single moment in which I wasn’t enjoying this book. I’m having a hard time to really put into words how much I loved this and why. Basically every element in this book was right for me. From story-telling and plot to the characters and their development as well as the romance.
I received an ARC by the author in exchange for leaving an honest review.
I love it when authors take the time to reach out to readers and I love reading new to me authors. When I got the opportunity to read this book, I just couldn’t pass up on it because the promise of it all was so good. I am beyond excited that I can now say, after reading it, that the book lived up to its expectations and that I found a new author that I cannot wait to read more of. This is a book and author I HIGHLY RECOMMEND to read.
katevaliant's review
4.0
Some parts of this made me think of a gender swapped Little Mermaid at times. Except this time the merman must find proof that unusual storms sinking ships have been created by the old vanquished gods who are beginning to stir. He enlists the help of a woman he saves from one of the ship wrecks. I'd recommend this to anyone who loves merman and sea fantasy.
queenterribletimy's review against another edition
4.0
Beneath Cruel Fathoms was in RockStarlit BookAsylum's group of 30 in SPFBO 5 and made it to be one of our semi-finalists. It definitely one of my top 3 as well after reading up to 25% of each book. I was thinking to coming back to it some day, but I didn't expect it to be so soon. The author was kind enough to gift me a paperback and I just found myself drawn to it as it lay on my desk. And so, I immersed myself in this world and man, it was a ride. I believe that I had to read this book right now as it dragged me out of my slump and also brought back the feeling of joy of reading and I'm grateful for it as I badly needed it.
My thoughts up to the 25% mark:
I've started to read Beneath Cruel Fathoms back in the summer during my vacation, so it was pretty early into the competiton - actually it might have been my second book I sampled - but despite going through 29 other books, it still managed to stay with me in the back of my mind. I didn't have the time to go back to read it fully, but I definitely intend to at one point. The strange thing is, I'm usually not into these kind of books, but Beneath Cruel Fathoms really managed to capture me. The writing was smooth and entertaining, the characters well fleshed out and I liked their interactions. I remember wanting to learn more about Leonel and his life in the sea. As characters go, I could connect with him the most. He earned his role to be the Guardian of the Fathoms, but that didn't mean he did earn the love, let alone respect of his family who constantly look down on him and make sure he doesn't feel welcome in their circles.
I had the feeling that Beneath Cruel Fathoms was a kind of Little Mermaid retelling, where the roles are reversed - Leonel the mermaid who saves the damsel in distress (although don't mistake her for being a weak female character, because she could definitely hold her own) - and as they fight together to figure out what's going on, they more than likely will fall in love. And all of this was set in a Norse mythology inspired world. Definitely an interesting mix. I enjoyed both POVs, getting to know their circumstances, learning about their personalities - I admit the first 25% weren't actually action packed, but I honestly didn't mind. I suspect it will pick up as Isaura and Leonel start to work together in earnest, but I already was being able to lose myself in the story as it was. Deen has a way of writing that just makes you turn the pages without realising.
And some more thoughts after reading it completely:
I pretty much stand by everything I said so far. There is action toward the second part of the book and Leonal stayed my favourite character. I just could connect with him on a deeper level - being a cast out, not trusting anyone especially when faced with nothing but kindness. His and Isaura's feelings are growing for each other and - thank the author - it's absolutely not an insta one. It builds up slowly and there is plenty of enough things going on to keep me absolutely interested and invested. Oh man, I was invested. I had FEELINGS toward the end because let's face it, Deen is a monster (okay, no, I'm kidding, but I'm still sour about certain things *shakes fist*) playing with emotions like a master musician plays their instrument.
"She bit her lip as though she hadn't meant to admit this. Broken. She'd said it of herself before, after her ship sank. Now as then, he wanted to ask but it was clear by the way she held her breath, she prayed he wouldn't. She had no need to fear. He understood her wish to be heard even without being fully understood. To be seen without being looked at."
There were some nice twists in the plot, and though the story arc was concluded nicely, it still left some things open for the next book in the series. Which I can't wait to read, by the way.
Even though books with romance is not something I would pick up usually, I'm glad Beneath Cruel Fathoms found its way to me. The romance was well written and there were enough other things to keep the story going. It also dealt with serious topics such as woman's place in society and how Isaura deals with the fact that she can't live up to the expectations and how that affects her relationships. On the other side is Leonel who is being shunned by his own family and tries to live up to their expectations but keeps failing.
If you are looking for an emotionally thrilling read with romance, mythical sea creatures and a vivid dark fantasy setting, then Beneath Cruel Fathoms is your book.
My thoughts up to the 25% mark:
I've started to read Beneath Cruel Fathoms back in the summer during my vacation, so it was pretty early into the competiton - actually it might have been my second book I sampled - but despite going through 29 other books, it still managed to stay with me in the back of my mind. I didn't have the time to go back to read it fully, but I definitely intend to at one point. The strange thing is, I'm usually not into these kind of books, but Beneath Cruel Fathoms really managed to capture me. The writing was smooth and entertaining, the characters well fleshed out and I liked their interactions. I remember wanting to learn more about Leonel and his life in the sea. As characters go, I could connect with him the most. He earned his role to be the Guardian of the Fathoms, but that didn't mean he did earn the love, let alone respect of his family who constantly look down on him and make sure he doesn't feel welcome in their circles.
I had the feeling that Beneath Cruel Fathoms was a kind of Little Mermaid retelling, where the roles are reversed - Leonel the mermaid who saves the damsel in distress (although don't mistake her for being a weak female character, because she could definitely hold her own) - and as they fight together to figure out what's going on, they more than likely will fall in love. And all of this was set in a Norse mythology inspired world. Definitely an interesting mix. I enjoyed both POVs, getting to know their circumstances, learning about their personalities - I admit the first 25% weren't actually action packed, but I honestly didn't mind. I suspect it will pick up as Isaura and Leonel start to work together in earnest, but I already was being able to lose myself in the story as it was. Deen has a way of writing that just makes you turn the pages without realising.
And some more thoughts after reading it completely:
I pretty much stand by everything I said so far. There is action toward the second part of the book and Leonal stayed my favourite character. I just could connect with him on a deeper level - being a cast out, not trusting anyone especially when faced with nothing but kindness. His and Isaura's feelings are growing for each other and - thank the author - it's absolutely not an insta one. It builds up slowly and there is plenty of enough things going on to keep me absolutely interested and invested. Oh man, I was invested. I had FEELINGS toward the end because let's face it, Deen is a monster (okay, no, I'm kidding, but I'm still sour about certain things *shakes fist*) playing with emotions like a master musician plays their instrument.
There were some nice twists in the plot, and though the story arc was concluded nicely, it still left some things open for the next book in the series. Which I can't wait to read, by the way.
Even though books with romance is not something I would pick up usually, I'm glad Beneath Cruel Fathoms found its way to me. The romance was well written and there were enough other things to keep the story going. It also dealt with serious topics such as woman's place in society and how Isaura deals with the fact that she can't live up to the expectations and how that affects her relationships. On the other side is Leonel who is being shunned by his own family and tries to live up to their expectations but keeps failing.
If you are looking for an emotionally thrilling read with romance, mythical sea creatures and a vivid dark fantasy setting, then Beneath Cruel Fathoms is your book.
dinipandareads's review against another edition
5.0
I read this book as part of the BBNYA blog tour hosted by The Write Reads. Special thanks to the author for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review! 4.5 stars rounded up
This book has actually been on my radar for quite some time and after reading it now, I feel a bit of an egg for putting it off for so long because I loved it! Deen really took me on a whole rollercoaster of emotions, especially towards the end and I found myself gripping on tightly to the edge of my seat as I turned the final pages. Epilogue endings such as the one in this book should be illegal because my heart—I'm not okay!
This book has actually been on my radar for quite some time and after reading it now, I feel a bit of an egg for putting it off for so long because I loved it! Deen really took me on a whole rollercoaster of emotions, especially towards the end and I found myself gripping on tightly to the edge of my seat as I turned the final pages. Epilogue endings such as the one in this book should be illegal because my heart—I'm not okay!
faithtrustpixiedust's review against another edition
4.0
I received this eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of this book in any way. All quotes are taken from the uncorrected proof and are subject to change.
It was honestly more of a 3.5 but the first half was great, so I'm rounding up.
Obligatory Summary
Isaura is on a boat, going back home to her father's house after a failed marriage, but the sea has been behaving most strangely, and when her ship capsizes in a brutal storm, killing everyone except for her, she thinks she'll die far from anyone who loves her.
Leonel, the last of the mermen, illegitimate son of the sea goddess Ran, is the Guardian of the Fathoms. He's been investigating these storms for a while, trying to figure out what dark magic is causing them, but his royal family and kingly stepfather disregard every report. When he finds Isaura, adrift and alone, he breaks the Blue Laws to save her in hopes that she can help him solve the mystery.
My Thoughts
I had the pleasure to read an ARC of Anela Deen's [b:Failsafe|38729847|Failsafe|Anela Deen|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1519407585s/38729847.jpg|60313270] last year and, while I found the plot a bit iffy at best, loved the banter between the two leads and genuinely loved their connection. It seems Deen has since learned how to perfect that dynamic, following the same pattern for love interests in this book, and I absolutely loved it! Her writing itself has significantly improved, and I made about 230 notes in my copy, the vast majority of which were positive. I was seriously expecting this to be a 5 star read, but unfortunately, the one thing Deen didn't improve was her plots. I'll go into this in a sec.
The first half of this was fantastic! Truly spectacular, with some of the most atmospheric writing I've ever read, and the deeply moving themes of the main characters were phenomenally done. Isaura's struggle with self-worth after learning she is infertile and her husband leaving her made me literally sob at one point, and Leonel's entire lack of personal identity at the hand of his abusive family ruined me. Isaura's father Johan and his sister Erla were a riot and I loved everything about them. The worldbuilding was amazing and I've never wanted to explore the ocean as much as in this, and that's saying a lot, because I wanted to be a marine biologist for like 10 years in my childhood.
But it didn't really continue past the 60% mark or so. The arcs stagnated and the plot followed them, but then both went from 30 to 100 real quick. Given how things ended with the main duo, I honestly don't know what kind of convoluted conflicts are going to arise in the sequel and third book to keep the romantic tension high. I dread a love triangle but I'm honestly thinking it might happen -_- Please hear my plea, Anela, and don't do it!
(Update! I've received confirmation from Anela Deen herself: there are no plans for a love triangle!)
The side romance, or the heavily implied one, between two supporting characters, Isaura's adopted brother Jurek and Leonel's only nice sister Ava, really lacked any emotion and didn't really do anything for the plot. It kind of made me dislike the two characters for no good reason.
Certain events happen at the end that may or may not involve water zombies, which I loved in concept, but their execution lacked something. I was also pretty disappointed that there was no call back to Gunnar, the super nice sailor from the very beginning, and it felt like a disservice to his death.
Ultimately, this was amazing, and I'm super glad I read it! I'm hyped for the sequel and I love supporting Anela Deen's work, because I think she's honestly a really great person and a very promising writer. Though this had its misgivings, I'd still recommend it, as well as Failsafe, to anyone who likes fantasy, of any age.
It was honestly more of a 3.5 but the first half was great, so I'm rounding up.
Love and friendship. Shame and heartache. Endings and beginnings.
Obligatory Summary
Isaura is on a boat, going back home to her father's house after a failed marriage, but the sea has been behaving most strangely, and when her ship capsizes in a brutal storm, killing everyone except for her, she thinks she'll die far from anyone who loves her.
Leonel, the last of the mermen, illegitimate son of the sea goddess Ran, is the Guardian of the Fathoms. He's been investigating these storms for a while, trying to figure out what dark magic is causing them, but his royal family and kingly stepfather disregard every report. When he finds Isaura, adrift and alone, he breaks the Blue Laws to save her in hopes that she can help him solve the mystery.
My Thoughts
I had the pleasure to read an ARC of Anela Deen's [b:Failsafe|38729847|Failsafe|Anela Deen|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1519407585s/38729847.jpg|60313270] last year and, while I found the plot a bit iffy at best, loved the banter between the two leads and genuinely loved their connection. It seems Deen has since learned how to perfect that dynamic, following the same pattern for love interests in this book, and I absolutely loved it! Her writing itself has significantly improved, and I made about 230 notes in my copy, the vast majority of which were positive. I was seriously expecting this to be a 5 star read, but unfortunately, the one thing Deen didn't improve was her plots. I'll go into this in a sec.
A life, no matter how long it lasted, had value.
The first half of this was fantastic! Truly spectacular, with some of the most atmospheric writing I've ever read, and the deeply moving themes of the main characters were phenomenally done. Isaura's struggle with self-worth after learning she is infertile and her husband leaving her made me literally sob at one point, and Leonel's entire lack of personal identity at the hand of his abusive family ruined me. Isaura's father Johan and his sister Erla were a riot and I loved everything about them. The worldbuilding was amazing and I've never wanted to explore the ocean as much as in this, and that's saying a lot, because I wanted to be a marine biologist for like 10 years in my childhood.
But it didn't really continue past the 60% mark or so. The arcs stagnated and the plot followed them, but then both went from 30 to 100 real quick. Given how things ended with the main duo, I honestly don't know what kind of convoluted conflicts are going to arise in the sequel and third book to keep the romantic tension high. I dread a love triangle but I'm honestly thinking it might happen -_- Please hear my plea, Anela, and don't do it!
(Update! I've received confirmation from Anela Deen herself: there are no plans for a love triangle!)
“Things didn’t turn out how you hoped, but you reached for what you wanted. I’m proud of you for that.” He closed the open shutter, softening the sounds of the outside world. “Now it’s time to reach for something else.”
The side romance, or the heavily implied one, between two supporting characters, Isaura's adopted brother Jurek and Leonel's only nice sister Ava, really lacked any emotion and didn't really do anything for the plot. It kind of made me dislike the two characters for no good reason.
Certain events happen at the end that may or may not involve water zombies, which I loved in concept, but their execution lacked something. I was also pretty disappointed that there was no call back to Gunnar, the super nice sailor from the very beginning, and it felt like a disservice to his death.
Ultimately, this was amazing, and I'm super glad I read it! I'm hyped for the sequel and I love supporting Anela Deen's work, because I think she's honestly a really great person and a very promising writer. Though this had its misgivings, I'd still recommend it, as well as Failsafe, to anyone who likes fantasy, of any age.
“We aren’t defined only by our failures and sorrows. I’m starting to believe we’re an assortment. A few big events, but countless smaller details. Little joys that carry us through the days, even when those days are hard.”
nuevecuervos's review
3.0
I held out high hopes for this ARC from Book Sirens, but quite honestly, when I was at the beginning of this story, I didn't expect to rate it three stars when I arrived at the end. It's a good fairy tale, if a little simple, but there are some editing missteps that could be made better with a thorough beta read and a firm editing hand (e.g.: the use of "grieves" when we're talking about "greaves"; "vaulted" when the word we want is "vaunted"; the heroine lamenting having forgotten gloves but a few minutes later excited that she remembered extra stockings; the merman not being used to speaking in a human tongue that he only knows a little about, but not questioning certain things while making a big deal of not understanding others, the characters occasionally acting like the KNOW something with the thinnest thread of evidence that this is the case, etc.). I was also deeply uncomfortable with the main character constantly referring to herself as "broken" for being unable to conceive children, and after a while it was frustrating (and grating) to keep seeing it. Finally the place names are kind of oof-inducing (Eisland and Dinark? Like say, Iceland and Denmark? but Eisland is literally E + Island.) and take a little bit to get past.
I kept a running list of specific issues in the hopes of passing them on, but about halfway through the book, I realized that while I was still keeping the list, I was actually interested in what was going to happen next, and I did indeed inhale the rest of the book.
Now, the list gets egregious, and our mains are so SO good (morally, ethically, as friends, etc.) that they're almost(?) unbelievably perfect, and perfect together. Isaura's relationship with her family (particularly her adopted brother) is fantastically enviable, and gratifyingly every last one of them (beginning with said brother) tells her that this whole "I'm broken because I'm barren" thing is some bullshit. Leonel's relationship with his youngest sister is equally strong, setting off even more starkly the abusive relationship with all the rest of his immortal sisters. Isaura and Leonel's difficulties together are understandable yet somehow surmountable, and it works out so sweetly that it's possible that it should come with insulin to help digest all the sugar, HOWEVER. I was astounded to find myself past all of that. It's a fun story, and a happy little romance. The romance storyline is even surprising in its somewhat believable pace (we're talking about merman love here, so 'believable' is saying a lot); it doesn't feel like instalove, and that's a huge accomplishment in this genre.
As I said, it's a simple style, sometimes a little shallow and occasionally straying into obvious. It put me in mind of a fanfic, but a good one, and I actually very much enjoy well-executed fanfic; it's fun and it feels good. This story is good, the characters are likable and their personal journeys around their own issues are satisfying, the mythology is entertaining, and it definitely plays successfully to the wistful romantic buried so deep in my psyche these days as to be mythological itself.
Thanks again to Book Sirens for the ARC.
I kept a running list of specific issues in the hopes of passing them on, but about halfway through the book, I realized that while I was still keeping the list, I was actually interested in what was going to happen next, and I did indeed inhale the rest of the book.
Now, the list gets egregious, and our mains are so SO good (morally, ethically, as friends, etc.) that they're almost(?) unbelievably perfect, and perfect together. Isaura's relationship with her family (particularly her adopted brother) is fantastically enviable, and gratifyingly every last one of them (beginning with said brother) tells her that this whole "I'm broken because I'm barren" thing is some bullshit. Leonel's relationship with his youngest sister is equally strong, setting off even more starkly the abusive relationship with all the rest of his immortal sisters. Isaura and Leonel's difficulties together are understandable yet somehow surmountable, and it works out so sweetly that it's possible that it should come with insulin to help digest all the sugar, HOWEVER. I was astounded to find myself past all of that. It's a fun story, and a happy little romance. The romance storyline is even surprising in its somewhat believable pace (we're talking about merman love here, so 'believable' is saying a lot); it doesn't feel like instalove, and that's a huge accomplishment in this genre.
As I said, it's a simple style, sometimes a little shallow and occasionally straying into obvious. It put me in mind of a fanfic, but a good one, and I actually very much enjoy well-executed fanfic; it's fun and it feels good. This story is good, the characters are likable and their personal journeys around their own issues are satisfying, the mythology is entertaining, and it definitely plays successfully to the wistful romantic buried so deep in my psyche these days as to be mythological itself.
Thanks again to Book Sirens for the ARC.