This book was a recent release in the Winter Edition, and I was intrigued by the blending of a mental health theme with such a well-known trope. I am a lover of mermaids from way back and have personally struggled with bouts of depression. So “intrigued” evolved into “must read” rather quickly.

ACTION: There is little to no action in this book in the traditional sense. No fight scenes or anything of that nature. There are a few moments of suspense that help along the story, but overall, it was a rather relaxing read.

ADVENTURE: This book has a heart for exploration. Set in the vistas of Hawaii, you will enjoy the beauty of nature on the land as well as the sea. The story does not place a heavy emphasis on the world around the characters, but the descriptions of this tropical place were still very enjoyable.

The vast majority of the “adventure” in this book is internal. Within the minds of the two main characters, you will walk with them through difficulties dealing with fear, loneliness, purpose, love, belonging, and the meaning of family. This depth of character development will leave you questioning how healthy your own internal world is.

ROMANCE: It is no secret that the main couple is going to face some challenges. The way that Tibbetts solves the land versus sea problem of this trope is unique and less stressful than many I’ve read. The main focus is on the growth of the characters and less on what keeps them apart.

If you worry about steamy romance in a book like this, let me put your mind at ease. There is a bit of kissy-kissy cuteness, but nothing else that would raise any type of alarm.

RELIGION: The author briefly touches on both land and sea having the same God. There was an intentionality to the sprinkling of Christian belief throughout this fantasy-type story that I was unable to miss. If you are worried about the use of magic in your reading, this author’s use of magic should pass muster and toes the line of the “spiritual gifts” category without coming out to say it.

FINAL THOUGHTS: This book is a study on internal conflict. Tibbetts places the very difficult and somewhat traumatic topic of declining mental health into a fluffy blanket of fantasy mermaid cotton. Approaching a difficult subject in a way that can be enjoyed is a good way to ease someone you care for into talking about things that they might be struggling with. As a person who has experienced depression, I found this book comforting. Within every page, the author is coaxing you to believe that you are not alone, that you are cared for, and that there is hope.