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Between the Sea and Sky
For as long as Esmerine can remember, she has longed to join her older sister, Dosinia, as a siren--the highest calling a mermaid can have. When Dosinia runs away to the mainland, Esmerine is sent to retrieve her. Using magic to transform her tail into legs, she makes her way unsteadily to the capital city. There she comes upon a friend she hasn't seen since childhood--a dashing young man named Alandare, who belongs to a winged race of people. As Esmerine and Alandare band together to search for Dosinia, they rekindle a friendship . . . and ignite the emotions for a love so great, it cannot be bound by sea, land, or air.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2011
44 people are currently reading
9720 people want to read
About the author
Jaclyn Dolamore
15 books782 followersJaclyn Dolamore has a passion for history, thrift stores, vintage dresses, David Bowie, drawing, and organic food. She lives in western Maryland with her partner and plot strategist, Dade, and three weird cats. To keep abreast of new releases, sales, and extras, please join her mailing list! http://tinyurl.com/JaclynDolamore
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 413 reviews
November 23, 2011
Ten (Unfulfilled) Wishes for this Book:
1. If this is was supposed to be a YA book, I wish that the story was more complex, the characters more fully developed, and the dialogue less juvenile.
2. If this was supposed to be a middle grade book, I wish there wereno fewer mentions of breasts and men looking at them, fewer mentions of drunken sailors making suggestive remarks, and less focus on the rather insipid romance. Such random lascivious behavior inserts an ugly note into the story for no reason whatsoever.
3. I wish mermaids didn't eat olives and nuts and other decidedly human foods; it just doesn't sit well with me. I also wish mermaids didn't eat fish. While I understand that fish do eat other fish in the wild, there's a certain cannibalism about this scenario that I would think the human part of the merpeople might be uncomfortable with. But okay, if it is absolutely necessary, please give me a reason why this is happening, because in my opinion, it's a little weird.
4. I wish there were more descriptions of underwater life. There are a couple of nice scenes at the beginning, but they're very short and don't really do enough to set the mood. And I feel like you need a good dose of MOOD to set the scene in a mermaid book.
5. I wish Esmerine were a more interesting character. Or that we had at least one interesting character to fall in love with and root for. Sadly, this is not the case.
6. I wish so many YA authors wouldn't make their heroines booklovers. I understand why this is such a prevalent trend, as obviously the books are written by and for girls who like books themselves. But more often than not, it feels forced (Hello Mara Dyer!) and lacking in any real depth or appreciation or breadth of knowledge. Here, the bookloving agenda was pushed so hard that it became somewhat annoying, especially because I kept thinking about the impracticalities of transporting books from the human world to mermaids in a way that wasn't going to damage them. (Silly, but it's true!) The books that are briefly mentioned don't even have any real significance to the story or the characters.
7. I wish there were some sense of urgency to this novel. The quest to find Esmerine's sister doesn't appear to have any sort of deadline and there's never any real danger to any of the characters. Apparently she can take all the time in the world, just so long as she doesn't give up herchastity magic siren's belt.
8. I wish the characters behaved in a way that seemed genuine or interesting or showed an emotional connection between them. Why do Esemerine and Alander fall in love? Why does Dosia fall in love? Beats me.
9. I wish this book lived up to the lovely little fairy tale that was the author's first book, Magic Under Glass. This one doesn't have one bit of that story's charm, and contains none of the imaginative details that made Glass so entertaining.
10. And lastly, I wish the author's Acknowledgements page didn't contain the following passage, which is most unfortunate when the story feels so slight:
I'm sure I wasn't the only young writer who had the Lord of the Rings movie soundtrack on repeat and decided I needed to write a huge fantasy epic with war and tragic death and many points of view. One of the approximately forty plot threads in my attempt was the love story between a mermaid and a winged boy. (This is why you always keep your lousy older writings!)
I think with a little more development and a lot more depth and detail, this might have turned out to be an interesting story. But sadly, in this current format, it's a pretty disappointing read. And the search for a great YA mermaid novel goes on...
This review also appears in The Midnight Garden. And advance copy was provided by the publisher.
1. If this is was supposed to be a YA book, I wish that the story was more complex, the characters more fully developed, and the dialogue less juvenile.
2. If this was supposed to be a middle grade book, I wish there were
3. I wish mermaids didn't eat olives and nuts and other decidedly human foods; it just doesn't sit well with me. I also wish mermaids didn't eat fish. While I understand that fish do eat other fish in the wild, there's a certain cannibalism about this scenario that I would think the human part of the merpeople might be uncomfortable with. But okay, if it is absolutely necessary, please give me a reason why this is happening, because in my opinion, it's a little weird.
4. I wish there were more descriptions of underwater life. There are a couple of nice scenes at the beginning, but they're very short and don't really do enough to set the mood. And I feel like you need a good dose of MOOD to set the scene in a mermaid book.
5. I wish Esmerine were a more interesting character. Or that we had at least one interesting character to fall in love with and root for. Sadly, this is not the case.
6. I wish so many YA authors wouldn't make their heroines booklovers. I understand why this is such a prevalent trend, as obviously the books are written by and for girls who like books themselves. But more often than not, it feels forced (Hello Mara Dyer!) and lacking in any real depth or appreciation or breadth of knowledge. Here, the bookloving agenda was pushed so hard that it became somewhat annoying, especially because I kept thinking about the impracticalities of transporting books from the human world to mermaids in a way that wasn't going to damage them. (Silly, but it's true!) The books that are briefly mentioned don't even have any real significance to the story or the characters.
7. I wish there were some sense of urgency to this novel. The quest to find Esmerine's sister doesn't appear to have any sort of deadline and there's never any real danger to any of the characters. Apparently she can take all the time in the world, just so long as she doesn't give up her
8. I wish the characters behaved in a way that seemed genuine or interesting or showed an emotional connection between them. Why do Esemerine and Alander fall in love? Why does Dosia fall in love? Beats me.
9. I wish this book lived up to the lovely little fairy tale that was the author's first book, Magic Under Glass. This one doesn't have one bit of that story's charm, and contains none of the imaginative details that made Glass so entertaining.
10. And lastly, I wish the author's Acknowledgements page didn't contain the following passage, which is most unfortunate when the story feels so slight:
I'm sure I wasn't the only young writer who had the Lord of the Rings movie soundtrack on repeat and decided I needed to write a huge fantasy epic with war and tragic death and many points of view. One of the approximately forty plot threads in my attempt was the love story between a mermaid and a winged boy. (This is why you always keep your lousy older writings!)
I think with a little more development and a lot more depth and detail, this might have turned out to be an interesting story. But sadly, in this current format, it's a pretty disappointing read. And the search for a great YA mermaid novel goes on...
This review also appears in The Midnight Garden. And advance copy was provided by the publisher.
July 9, 2010
About eight years ago, I was working on this big epic mess of a never-finished novel. I wasn't very good back then at outlining or understanding what the core of the story was, but in hindsight, the core was the story of a mermaid and a winged boy who were childhood friends that met again later in life. Now I finally have a chance to tell that story, and though the players have changed (for the better), it still feels like an old story I've been dying to share.
November 4, 2011
I'm always drawn to mermaid fiction and generally speaking disappointed. I don't know why this subgenre is so hard to master. Maybe it's that Ariel is always peaking over our shoulder as only Disney movies can. Or maybe a world of fish and fins is somehow too foreign, more foreign than land-based fantasy tales and outer space adventures.
Between the Sea and Sky is better than most mermaid stories. I suspect a lot of people will really like this book. Especially if you like star-crossed love stories. But for me, it's just not quite there.
First I want to talk about what this book did right
1. Esmerine was a likable and believable main character. I know that seems like it should be a given, but the last mermaid book I read I didn't like any of the characters. She's the type of person you could root for. Esmerine is smart, caring and loves her family.
2. Consequences for magic - So often magic has no consequences. Mermaids in this story feel pain whenever they walk on land. I know where it comes from in mermaid lore (I may have done some research on the topic lately). It's a nice touch.
3. Not a love at first sight story. I was worried about this but there's actually a friendship first.
4. Not one species is "evil" or the bad guy. The story doesn't oversimplify things. There are good mermaids, good humans and good flying people.
Unfortunately I must also talk about what didn't work in this book for me. For me, the main flaw was that the stakes didn't seem high enough. Either she stayed on land or she didn't. Neither choice seemed drastically better than the other. I wasn't invested. Partially I think this is because the enchantment of the siren's belt wasn't very well explained. I didn't (and don't) understand the consequences of giving someone her belt. It stops the pain and there's some kind of enchantment involved but what that entails I don't know.
Another problem I have with this book is that apparently a underwater society didn't have any of the problems of our world on land. In the beginning we're introduced to a world where people have different jobs, the main character's family seems distinctly lower middle-class (they talk about things they can't afford), but then Esmerine is aghast at all the problems of land based society. There's poverty, beggars, cripples and she doesn't understand this at all. I find it unrealistic that an underworld world with some kind of economic system could exist entirely without poverty or flaws. To me this felt like a continuity error.
This book is well enough to read. I have no major issues with it (like I do with a lot of paranormal YA) but at the end of the day I felt pretty ambiguous towards it. I just didn't care enough. But I suspect a lot of people will enjoy the romance and skim over the flaws but I just expected more.
October 15, 2011
I found Dolamore's debut “Magic Under Glass” to be a charming and creative book that could have benefited from some tighter plotting and characterisation. It certainly sparked my interest for her next book, a standalone mermaid story, especially after Dolamore mentioned how she wrote the book to the scores of Studio Ghibli films (indeed, I noted in my earlier review how her creative worlds would be ideal for Hayao Miyizaki's next film.) While the mermaid craze never quite took off the way that many bloggers and publishers thought it would, there is still a gap in the market for a strong mermaid YA to join the myriad of vampires, werewolves, angels and other assorted creatures of mythology already so well known to readerrs. Unfortunately this book did not meet my excpectations.
I found that many of the same problems I had with Dolamore's previous novel appeared in “Between the Sea and the Sky”. Wonderfully imaginative elements of world-building, including the mermaid-siren hierarchy, the relations between each of the species and the world of the winged creatures, the Fandarsee, were introduced to us but never fully developed. In “Magic Under Glass”, Dolamore introduced the strands of political and cultural complexities that I was desperate to know more about, yet such elements never came to fruition, and the exact same thing happens here. While there were moments of vivid descriptive scenes throughout her consistently strong prose, I never felt fully immersed in the world-building. To be honest, much of it felt very underdeveloped. I have a feeling this book may be marketed to a younger, more middle-grade audience. The prose and story-telling feels more suited to pre-teen readers, although it's very readable for all ages. I did find that the frequent dumping of exposition began to grate extremely quickly, especially since this is such a short book with very little action and a highly predictable plot.
I did not find Esmerine to be as interesting or well developed as Nimira in “Magic Under Glass.” The idea of the young beautiful mermaid dissatisfied with her lot in life and yearning for more on the surface is nothing new. In fact, it's a staple of the great mermaid tales going back as far as Hans Christian Andersen, maybe even further. I can understand the harking back to influential tales but so little is developed from that point onwards that it can't help but feel stagnant and unsatisfying. This applies to pretty much every supporting character in the book, although nobody is ever really given any real time to shine or become more three-dimensional. Of course, this doesn't bode well for the romantic element, which felt too heavily reliant on the childhood friends trope to explain Esmerine and Alandare's relationship. One part of the book that really left me scratching my head was the depiction of humans. While mermaids and the Fandarsee are granted some variety of characterisation, pretty much every human is seen as selfish, rude or extremely ignorant of other species aside from themselves. They seem to view all others as a side-show novelty. I could understand this possibly for one or two characters from more isolated parts of the country, but these interactions and knowledge of other creatures are well known, so it didn't make much sense to have every human act like a fool when in the presence of a mermaid (whom they are especially susceptible to falling under their charms) or Fandarsee.
While “Between the Sea and the Sky” possesses much of the charm and imagination of Dolamore's debut work, the same flaws are also still present and overwhelm the positive elements. Wonderfully creative elements and ideas are introduced but left to flounder instead of being given their deserved attention, while the characters and romantic element are pretty stock for the genre for the most part. The readability of its prose and short length make it ideally suited to younger readers, although the book itself is not without merit for readers of all ages. Once again, it's an ideal framework for a Ghibli film, but also hints are Dolamore's possible strengths as a short story writer.
2.5/5.
I found that many of the same problems I had with Dolamore's previous novel appeared in “Between the Sea and the Sky”. Wonderfully imaginative elements of world-building, including the mermaid-siren hierarchy, the relations between each of the species and the world of the winged creatures, the Fandarsee, were introduced to us but never fully developed. In “Magic Under Glass”, Dolamore introduced the strands of political and cultural complexities that I was desperate to know more about, yet such elements never came to fruition, and the exact same thing happens here. While there were moments of vivid descriptive scenes throughout her consistently strong prose, I never felt fully immersed in the world-building. To be honest, much of it felt very underdeveloped. I have a feeling this book may be marketed to a younger, more middle-grade audience. The prose and story-telling feels more suited to pre-teen readers, although it's very readable for all ages. I did find that the frequent dumping of exposition began to grate extremely quickly, especially since this is such a short book with very little action and a highly predictable plot.
I did not find Esmerine to be as interesting or well developed as Nimira in “Magic Under Glass.” The idea of the young beautiful mermaid dissatisfied with her lot in life and yearning for more on the surface is nothing new. In fact, it's a staple of the great mermaid tales going back as far as Hans Christian Andersen, maybe even further. I can understand the harking back to influential tales but so little is developed from that point onwards that it can't help but feel stagnant and unsatisfying. This applies to pretty much every supporting character in the book, although nobody is ever really given any real time to shine or become more three-dimensional. Of course, this doesn't bode well for the romantic element, which felt too heavily reliant on the childhood friends trope to explain Esmerine and Alandare's relationship. One part of the book that really left me scratching my head was the depiction of humans. While mermaids and the Fandarsee are granted some variety of characterisation, pretty much every human is seen as selfish, rude or extremely ignorant of other species aside from themselves. They seem to view all others as a side-show novelty. I could understand this possibly for one or two characters from more isolated parts of the country, but these interactions and knowledge of other creatures are well known, so it didn't make much sense to have every human act like a fool when in the presence of a mermaid (whom they are especially susceptible to falling under their charms) or Fandarsee.
While “Between the Sea and the Sky” possesses much of the charm and imagination of Dolamore's debut work, the same flaws are also still present and overwhelm the positive elements. Wonderfully creative elements and ideas are introduced but left to flounder instead of being given their deserved attention, while the characters and romantic element are pretty stock for the genre for the most part. The readability of its prose and short length make it ideally suited to younger readers, although the book itself is not without merit for readers of all ages. Once again, it's an ideal framework for a Ghibli film, but also hints are Dolamore's possible strengths as a short story writer.
2.5/5.
January 15, 2013
Between Sea and Sky
Book Completed: 10/25/2012
Book Rating: ★★
Ten Things that Disappointed:
10. The story had so much potential. A love between a sky creature and a sea creature. Had the plot actually had a plot and been further developed, I think this book had the makings of a series and a good one at that. However, alas.. it did not. The plot was boring and rather uneventful and felt like it was written for a 10 year old.
9. There were mermaids called sirens. Cool concept, very different but I was not a fan. I personally think Sirens and Mermaids are two entirely different creatures and so when authors merge them, it makes me wanna tear my hair out.
8. The protagonist, Esmerine was so whiny. She wanted to save her sister but she really couldn't do anything and never really thought anything through. Like if her sister was actually in trouble or how she would accomplish saving her. The only feat she had was she could read and walk out of water slightly better than the other merpeeps.
7. Esmerine was so boring and Alander was too! Seriously, no time or extra effort went into developing these two. They were a snooze fest.
6. BOOM! We're in love. There was no connection or chemistry or even a segway into the romance other than their briefly mentioned past which was utterly dull.
5. The sister irritated the hell out of me. As did most of the characters in the book for that matter.
4. "Oh my goodness, I need to save my sister." Oh but look, a book, fireworks, a wall, this bed, these shoes, this guy, this room, this food, my feet hurt.. There was no urgency to save that said sister. It was like the plot of the whole novel fell through in the middle. I understand you need to develop your characters and their romance (none of which happened anyways) but there are better ways of going about this.
3. What the heck just happened with the collar/belt thing? Uh.. I dunno because it was utter chaos and not developed! Surprise, surprise.
2. The climax of the book was so utterly pointless. Like, did I just spend so much time reading this to get that? Really? No, shut up, really? For reals?
1. And finally the romance sucked. Like literally. When did they fall in love? Why did they fall in love? What's going to happen (oh wait, you explained that but I still don't effin get how)? The two had no chemistry. It was like two ice cubes rubbing up against each other, a slippery slope. I don't even know what I'm talking about anymore. I mean, they had no friction, no chemistry.
Le sigh!
Book Completed: 10/25/2012
Book Rating: ★★
Ten Things that Disappointed:
10. The story had so much potential. A love between a sky creature and a sea creature. Had the plot actually had a plot and been further developed, I think this book had the makings of a series and a good one at that. However, alas.. it did not. The plot was boring and rather uneventful and felt like it was written for a 10 year old.
9. There were mermaids called sirens. Cool concept, very different but I was not a fan. I personally think Sirens and Mermaids are two entirely different creatures and so when authors merge them, it makes me wanna tear my hair out.
8. The protagonist, Esmerine was so whiny. She wanted to save her sister but she really couldn't do anything and never really thought anything through. Like if her sister was actually in trouble or how she would accomplish saving her. The only feat she had was she could read and walk out of water slightly better than the other merpeeps.
7. Esmerine was so boring and Alander was too! Seriously, no time or extra effort went into developing these two. They were a snooze fest.
6. BOOM! We're in love. There was no connection or chemistry or even a segway into the romance other than their briefly mentioned past which was utterly dull.
5. The sister irritated the hell out of me. As did most of the characters in the book for that matter.
4. "Oh my goodness, I need to save my sister." Oh but look, a book, fireworks, a wall, this bed, these shoes, this guy, this room, this food, my feet hurt.. There was no urgency to save that said sister. It was like the plot of the whole novel fell through in the middle. I understand you need to develop your characters and their romance (none of which happened anyways) but there are better ways of going about this.
3. What the heck just happened with the collar/belt thing? Uh.. I dunno because it was utter chaos and not developed! Surprise, surprise.
2. The climax of the book was so utterly pointless. Like, did I just spend so much time reading this to get that? Really? No, shut up, really? For reals?
1. And finally the romance sucked. Like literally. When did they fall in love? Why did they fall in love? What's going to happen (oh wait, you explained that but I still don't effin get how)? The two had no chemistry. It was like two ice cubes rubbing up against each other, a slippery slope. I don't even know what I'm talking about anymore. I mean, they had no friction, no chemistry.
Le sigh!
December 29, 2012
If this book really happens, I will be the happiest person!! Love mermaids, even is the are sirens = /
September 30, 2011
Some time ago, I fell in love with this cover. I was already a fan of Dolamore's from her debut, Magic Under Glass, and while I was eagerly searching Goodreads to see if/when I was going to get more stories about my darling little automaton, I came across this companion novel of a mermaid in love with a winged boy. And I thought, well isn't that just lovely? I mean, beyond the sheer obvious loveliness of the cover, isn't the idea of a love bridging these two contradictory worlds just lovely. [And every time I thought of it, the bit of dialogue from Ever After would pop into my head about "A bird may love a fish, signore, but where will they make their home?" "Well, we will have to give you wings!" would pop into my head...] So I put it on my wishlist and settled in for the long haul. Somewhere along the way, I had a little event with an awesome person, and got to chatting with Jaclyn Dolamore, who participated. Her lovely book that I was settled in waiting for got pushed back (because they were trying to torture us, I can only assume) - but I needn't have worried, because Jaclyn sent me a copy!
Once the drooling was over, I convinced myself to wait to read it until closer to the publication, because I know myself and I know how I will put off writing a review until I've forgotten damn near everything I wanted to say. But eventually the time came, I was finally (finally!) able to sit down and read it.
And I was right, it is lovely.
Now, I was a little hesitant in the beginning. The reader is plunged into this very foreign world and though I generally like that, this is a very foreign world (they're mermaids! Things operate on a totally different level). I liked the differences; it makes sense that their world would be vastly different, and their thoughts and day-to-days concerns, would be vastly different, than anything we're familiar with on this world. That is as it should be. But things were...simpler, I guess, and I was a little lost and a little meh on the beginning. But Esmerine and her eldest sister are different, and I connected with their yearning - and the story really picks up when Esmerine leaves the water. It's a great fish out of water story (ah-ha-ha) [SO MANY PUNS. I'll stop myself now so you don't feel the need to hurt me.]
I felt like there was a good struggle. Enough is built into the world-building and the situation to make you empathize with Esmerine and wonder what is the right decision for her, even while you're hoping she makes a certain one (because no matter what we say, we're all suckers for a happy ending). Esmerine's worries and her torn feelings seemed true to her character and situation; the way she has been raised and the way she, and those around her, have been taught to think and behave, contrasted with what she feels and what she wants made it a really enjoyable story. But beyond just Esmerine, we get snippets of other characters' struggles to be true to themselves and choose happiness. I loved the glimpses we get of Alan's struggles as the book goes on - I loved that his struggles came first, actually, long before Esmerine must come to terms with what she wants, and that he tried to be really brave about his lot in life, and kind of deadened himself in a way. And again with Dosia and her struggles, which we never actually get to know about until we see their effects - Dosia's selfishness was interesting. It was necessary in that reckless, careless way that you have to be sometimes for your own happiness, and she overcomes her struggles and goes for what she wants boldly (if thoughtlessly). There's this over-arching theme of sort of following your bliss, doing what's right for you and what will bring more happiness into the world. It's this great dimension to the story, which is told very simply but slyly layered with things like this.
Another thing that I like, and this may seem silly, is that there's no real villain. I feel like, so many times villains are a crutch. Don't get me wrong, they can be great, and I love a good villain, but the fact is, that's not always life. There's not always an arch-nemesis, and doesn't need to be. This was a great example of that, because though there is some opposition in some respects, there is certainly no villain, nor even a need for one - the situational tension and misunderstandings are enough.
The few things that bothered me were fairly minor, but worth noting. Foremost, it was very brief, which is something I actually like, but - But when something is so brief, I feel like there's no excuse not to flesh things out that need fleshing. You're not over your word count, you're not cutting things just to keep it from being mammoth. In short, you have the space, so there are times when I just felt like things could have been filled a bit more, could have been fleshed and finessed a bit more. The 2nd thing is just a product of having read an ARC - there were a lot of typos and some minor plot holes that just broke me out of the story occasionally. I would actually like to reread the book as a finished copy to get the "real" feel of it, once everything is smoothed and lovely, so I can read it without getting snarled in the errors. But this drawback is, in itself, actually a good thing - I wouldn't want to reread it as a finished copy if I didn't like the story.
All in all, it's a solid companion to Magic Under Glass, and a solid story in its own right. Esmerine's growth and the visual aspects of the story and the world make this one absolutely worth it. (In fact, I would love to see mock-ups of the world!)
Once the drooling was over, I convinced myself to wait to read it until closer to the publication, because I know myself and I know how I will put off writing a review until I've forgotten damn near everything I wanted to say. But eventually the time came, I was finally (finally!) able to sit down and read it.
And I was right, it is lovely.
Now, I was a little hesitant in the beginning. The reader is plunged into this very foreign world and though I generally like that, this is a very foreign world (they're mermaids! Things operate on a totally different level). I liked the differences; it makes sense that their world would be vastly different, and their thoughts and day-to-days concerns, would be vastly different, than anything we're familiar with on this world. That is as it should be. But things were...simpler, I guess, and I was a little lost and a little meh on the beginning. But Esmerine and her eldest sister are different, and I connected with their yearning - and the story really picks up when Esmerine leaves the water. It's a great fish out of water story (ah-ha-ha) [SO MANY PUNS. I'll stop myself now so you don't feel the need to hurt me.]
I felt like there was a good struggle. Enough is built into the world-building and the situation to make you empathize with Esmerine and wonder what is the right decision for her, even while you're hoping she makes a certain one (because no matter what we say, we're all suckers for a happy ending). Esmerine's worries and her torn feelings seemed true to her character and situation; the way she has been raised and the way she, and those around her, have been taught to think and behave, contrasted with what she feels and what she wants made it a really enjoyable story. But beyond just Esmerine, we get snippets of other characters' struggles to be true to themselves and choose happiness. I loved the glimpses we get of Alan's struggles as the book goes on - I loved that his struggles came first, actually, long before Esmerine must come to terms with what she wants, and that he tried to be really brave about his lot in life, and kind of deadened himself in a way. And again with Dosia and her struggles, which we never actually get to know about until we see their effects - Dosia's selfishness was interesting. It was necessary in that reckless, careless way that you have to be sometimes for your own happiness, and she overcomes her struggles and goes for what she wants boldly (if thoughtlessly). There's this over-arching theme of sort of following your bliss, doing what's right for you and what will bring more happiness into the world. It's this great dimension to the story, which is told very simply but slyly layered with things like this.
Another thing that I like, and this may seem silly, is that there's no real villain. I feel like, so many times villains are a crutch. Don't get me wrong, they can be great, and I love a good villain, but the fact is, that's not always life. There's not always an arch-nemesis, and doesn't need to be. This was a great example of that, because though there is some opposition in some respects, there is certainly no villain, nor even a need for one - the situational tension and misunderstandings are enough.
The few things that bothered me were fairly minor, but worth noting. Foremost, it was very brief, which is something I actually like, but - But when something is so brief, I feel like there's no excuse not to flesh things out that need fleshing. You're not over your word count, you're not cutting things just to keep it from being mammoth. In short, you have the space, so there are times when I just felt like things could have been filled a bit more, could have been fleshed and finessed a bit more. The 2nd thing is just a product of having read an ARC - there were a lot of typos and some minor plot holes that just broke me out of the story occasionally. I would actually like to reread the book as a finished copy to get the "real" feel of it, once everything is smoothed and lovely, so I can read it without getting snarled in the errors. But this drawback is, in itself, actually a good thing - I wouldn't want to reread it as a finished copy if I didn't like the story.
All in all, it's a solid companion to Magic Under Glass, and a solid story in its own right. Esmerine's growth and the visual aspects of the story and the world make this one absolutely worth it. (In fact, I would love to see mock-ups of the world!)
May 23, 2011
If Hans Christian Andersen were still alive, this is a story he would write. I loved the world create by Jaclyn Dolamore in Between the Sea and Sky. Esmerine, a mermaid who befriends a "winged boy", is a little different from all the other mermaids. She has learned how to read and write; a thing most mermaids find impractical. She has also learned how to transform into a human and walk on land. Alander-- the "winged boy"-- is a Fandarsee. Like Esmerine, he is also different from the others of his kind. Instead of being content as a messenger, he enjoys reading and studying philosophy.
When Esmerine's sister (Dosinia) goes missing, Esmerine travels to the human world to find her. She knows that her sister has been visiting with humans, and she fears that she has been captured. Once on land, Esmerine finds her old friend, Alander, and begins her search for Dosinia. But Esmerine is not just looking for her lost sister. She is also searching for her own place in the world and the bonds that unite her heart with Alander's.
One of my all-time favorite fairy tales is The Little Mermaid, even Hans Christian Andersen's tragic version. The mystery and beauty of living under the water has always enchanted me. This book did not disappoint me. I still managed to get the tingly feeling while reading about Esmerine's life under the sea. Above all that, though, I think I liked the fact that the created world was so different from any mermaid story I have ever read. In this book, mermaids and Fandarsee are a well known fact, not a hidden secret. The humans are not surprised to see the mystical creatures walking and living among them on land. In fact, merpeople, Fandarsee and humans interact daily and conduct business together. That alone is fascinating and unique.
The characters are delightful. Esmerine is different from the other merpeople. She's described as "practical" and snubbed by her peers. She has learned how to read and write from Alander, but the other sea-dwellers don't find that fascinating. How typical of people to disregard the things that they do not personally understand? Alander also deals with the same struggles on land. His father wants him to follow in the family's footsteps and become a great scientist. Alander, however, has no desire to "discover" things; instead, he wants to educate people and spread knowledge. It's no wonder that Esmerine and Alander feel like two parts of the same whole.
If I had to pick one thing that I liked the best in this book, I would have to say the descriptions. The vivid details helped bring to life the setting. When the story was taking place under water, I could picture the living quarters and imagine the class rankings (Yes, social classes under the sea!). The subtle snobbery of the "rich" merpeople was felt in every word and action. I didn't feel like the human world was described in as much detail as the ocean, but you still got a good sense of the setting. I feel like there should have been a little more detail and perception given to the human experiences since Esmerine was experiencing this land for the first time in human form.
Overall, this is a good read. It didn't take long to read--I finished in one sitting. If you like Hans Christian Andersen's version of The Little Mermaid, you will enjoy this story. There are elements that resonate in his version that continue in Dolamore's story. Between the Sea and Sky is romantic enough to earn a YA label, but clean enough for Disney. There are no graphic scenes--just a drunk and a few kisses. I enjoyed this one, but then again, it's hard to disappoint me with a mermaid story.
When Esmerine's sister (Dosinia) goes missing, Esmerine travels to the human world to find her. She knows that her sister has been visiting with humans, and she fears that she has been captured. Once on land, Esmerine finds her old friend, Alander, and begins her search for Dosinia. But Esmerine is not just looking for her lost sister. She is also searching for her own place in the world and the bonds that unite her heart with Alander's.
One of my all-time favorite fairy tales is The Little Mermaid, even Hans Christian Andersen's tragic version. The mystery and beauty of living under the water has always enchanted me. This book did not disappoint me. I still managed to get the tingly feeling while reading about Esmerine's life under the sea. Above all that, though, I think I liked the fact that the created world was so different from any mermaid story I have ever read. In this book, mermaids and Fandarsee are a well known fact, not a hidden secret. The humans are not surprised to see the mystical creatures walking and living among them on land. In fact, merpeople, Fandarsee and humans interact daily and conduct business together. That alone is fascinating and unique.
The characters are delightful. Esmerine is different from the other merpeople. She's described as "practical" and snubbed by her peers. She has learned how to read and write from Alander, but the other sea-dwellers don't find that fascinating. How typical of people to disregard the things that they do not personally understand? Alander also deals with the same struggles on land. His father wants him to follow in the family's footsteps and become a great scientist. Alander, however, has no desire to "discover" things; instead, he wants to educate people and spread knowledge. It's no wonder that Esmerine and Alander feel like two parts of the same whole.
If I had to pick one thing that I liked the best in this book, I would have to say the descriptions. The vivid details helped bring to life the setting. When the story was taking place under water, I could picture the living quarters and imagine the class rankings (Yes, social classes under the sea!). The subtle snobbery of the "rich" merpeople was felt in every word and action. I didn't feel like the human world was described in as much detail as the ocean, but you still got a good sense of the setting. I feel like there should have been a little more detail and perception given to the human experiences since Esmerine was experiencing this land for the first time in human form.
Overall, this is a good read. It didn't take long to read--I finished in one sitting. If you like Hans Christian Andersen's version of The Little Mermaid, you will enjoy this story. There are elements that resonate in his version that continue in Dolamore's story. Between the Sea and Sky is romantic enough to earn a YA label, but clean enough for Disney. There are no graphic scenes--just a drunk and a few kisses. I enjoyed this one, but then again, it's hard to disappoint me with a mermaid story.
June 10, 2024
Sadly, much like Cayla Kluver's
Legacy
or
Tris & Izzie
by Mette Ivie Harrison, this mermaid tale is another case of Beautiful Cover, Big Ol' Mess inside the alluring facade. Though this young-adult novel is technically not a retelling of Hans Christian Andersen's famous Little Mermaid, the story is obviously influenced by and similar to that long-loved tale. Both the pain of land, the belt/chastity allegory are all in tune with the familiar story - and very little is done by the author to differentiate her version. Between the Sea and Sky is the tale of a bookish teenage mermaid - though she is soon to be elevated into the exclusive and respected sirens - named Esmerine. Esmerine's tale is about her search for her sister Dosinia, a fellow siren disappeared from the sea abruptly. It's a simple story in a very simple style that somehow manages to still take quite a bit of effort to finish. I have been on the look out for a good mermaid story, but sadly for me, Between the Sea and Sky failed to deliver a well-rounded, interesting, or even wholly appropriate mermaid tale.
Esmerine is not a very well-rounded or even developed young-woman. Her personality seems too-perfect at best and mismatching or altered to appeal at worst. I never felt invested in the young mermaid; from her dialogue and her actions, she constantly came across as too young and too immature. As "the brain of the family" Esmerine sticks out from all other merfolk: she can read and write, and has even been friends with one of the detested and avoided "sky people". I can't say I really rooted for Esmerine during her search for Dosia- it's a fairly boring trek that seems to consist of Esmerine sitting and waiting while another actually searches for her sister. The role of the sirens as well, that of luring men to their deaths using song/beauty/etc., also seem strangely out-of-tune with the almost MG tone and feel of this novel. Between the Sea and the Sky occasionally borders on uncomfortable side with the random mentions of (and fixation upon) breasts, in addition to the more mature themes randomly mixed into the story.
The "winged people" that Esmerine knows and talks to are the Fandarsee - winged humans that are essentially Mercurys - they transport messages. One reason (among many) that this novel irritated me: the merfolk and Fandarsee resent/avoid/hate the other but no real reason is provided for the animosity between the races. So naturally, when Esmerine has feelings for a 'darsee, they cannot be together because. . . of an obvious plot device by the author. It's obvious, unreasonable and needed better plotting. Alander or "Alan Dare" is the male love-interest for Esmerine; a friend from her childhood she has since (6 years) not seen. Speaking of which, Alandare reminds me of my second quibble: humans/their normal world are mentioned often throughout the story, but no information is given as to if the mermaids/Fandarsee are known outside of those encountered personally by humans. It just felt like a glaring error: I never knew what the status of the characters were and the worldbuilding suffered. And when I say worldbuilding, I'm being a tad sarcastic. There's barely any time devoted during the narrative to describe or enliven the underwater realm, which seemed by far the most interesting and with the most unique possibilities of all the places in the novel.
Esmerine is not a very well-rounded or even developed young-woman. Her personality seems too-perfect at best and mismatching or altered to appeal at worst. I never felt invested in the young mermaid; from her dialogue and her actions, she constantly came across as too young and too immature. As "the brain of the family" Esmerine sticks out from all other merfolk: she can read and write, and has even been friends with one of the detested and avoided "sky people". I can't say I really rooted for Esmerine during her search for Dosia- it's a fairly boring trek that seems to consist of Esmerine sitting and waiting while another actually searches for her sister. The role of the sirens as well, that of luring men to their deaths using song/beauty/etc., also seem strangely out-of-tune with the almost MG tone and feel of this novel. Between the Sea and the Sky occasionally borders on uncomfortable side with the random mentions of (and fixation upon) breasts, in addition to the more mature themes randomly mixed into the story.
The "winged people" that Esmerine knows and talks to are the Fandarsee - winged humans that are essentially Mercurys - they transport messages. One reason (among many) that this novel irritated me: the merfolk and Fandarsee resent/avoid/hate the other but no real reason is provided for the animosity between the races. So naturally, when Esmerine has feelings for a 'darsee, they cannot be together because. . . of an obvious plot device by the author. It's obvious, unreasonable and needed better plotting. Alander or "Alan Dare" is the male love-interest for Esmerine; a friend from her childhood she has since (6 years) not seen. Speaking of which, Alandare reminds me of my second quibble: humans/their normal world are mentioned often throughout the story, but no information is given as to if the mermaids/Fandarsee are known outside of those encountered personally by humans. It just felt like a glaring error: I never knew what the status of the characters were and the worldbuilding suffered. And when I say worldbuilding, I'm being a tad sarcastic. There's barely any time devoted during the narrative to describe or enliven the underwater realm, which seemed by far the most interesting and with the most unique possibilities of all the places in the novel.
November 22, 2011
BETWEEN THE SEA AND SKY is a mermaid book for those who are wary of books categorized by the particular creatures that inhabit the stories. Told in Jaclyn Dolamore’s trademark writing style—straightforward narration that nevertheless paints a lush magical world—BETWEEN THE SEA AND SKY is a charming story that, while not perfect, is still a quick and enjoyable read.
Much like in her debut novel Magic Under Glass, Jaclyn Dolamore has the quiet but valuable ability of deftly portraying elaborate new worlds with no over-fanfare. The first few chapters pulled me completely into the unfamiliar mermaid world of Dolamore’s creation, where magic lanterns are borrowed as a sign of status and being chosen as a siren is one of the highest honors a mermaid can receive. Mermaids, humans, winged people, and who knows what else exist in an unusual society that nevertheless seems to operate in a completely natural and self-contained manner—the mark, in my opinion, of a skilled world-building writer.
Where this book falters a bit is in plot and pacing. BETWEEN THE SEA AND SKY starts out so engagingly, with the introduction of this new mermaid world, and the somewhat uneasy dynamics between the different creatures. Unfortunately, I felt that the plot was rather uneven: for a great amount of time, Esmerine is simply waiting to hear of news about her sister, and then the next thing we know she and Alander are off on a confoundingly simple adventure to seek Dosia. I say “confounding” because, with such a wonderful beginning to a novel, I really wanted more from the plot.
That being said, BETWEEN THE SEA AND SKY is a humbly sparkling story that will make for a sweet read one quiet afternoon. If you are a fan of mermaids or Magic Under Glass, Jaclyn Dolamore’s sophomore novel is not to be missed!
Much like in her debut novel Magic Under Glass, Jaclyn Dolamore has the quiet but valuable ability of deftly portraying elaborate new worlds with no over-fanfare. The first few chapters pulled me completely into the unfamiliar mermaid world of Dolamore’s creation, where magic lanterns are borrowed as a sign of status and being chosen as a siren is one of the highest honors a mermaid can receive. Mermaids, humans, winged people, and who knows what else exist in an unusual society that nevertheless seems to operate in a completely natural and self-contained manner—the mark, in my opinion, of a skilled world-building writer.
Where this book falters a bit is in plot and pacing. BETWEEN THE SEA AND SKY starts out so engagingly, with the introduction of this new mermaid world, and the somewhat uneasy dynamics between the different creatures. Unfortunately, I felt that the plot was rather uneven: for a great amount of time, Esmerine is simply waiting to hear of news about her sister, and then the next thing we know she and Alander are off on a confoundingly simple adventure to seek Dosia. I say “confounding” because, with such a wonderful beginning to a novel, I really wanted more from the plot.
That being said, BETWEEN THE SEA AND SKY is a humbly sparkling story that will make for a sweet read one quiet afternoon. If you are a fan of mermaids or Magic Under Glass, Jaclyn Dolamore’s sophomore novel is not to be missed!
July 9, 2011
For years, Esmerine has longed for the day when she can join her older sister, Dosia, as a siren, and now that day has come. Becoming a siren is a great honor for a mermaid and her family. But the very next day, Dosia disappears. Esmerine's worst fears come true when she learns that her sister has gone to the surface world and married a human. Esmerine fears her sister was taken against her will and is desperate to find her, even though it is unlikely she can save her.
Unable to make her way on the surface world alone, Esmerine seeks out the help of Alan, a young man from a winged race of people called the Fandarsee. As children, Esmerine and Alan played together on an island, but she hasn't seen him in several years, since he left to study. After reuniting, their feelings of friendship begin to grow into something more, but a love between them seems impossible, for Alan cannot live in the sea, and Esmerine cannot live on land without terrible pain, unless she permanently gives up her ability to return to the sea.
I really enjoyed Jaclyn Dolamore's debut novel, Magic Under Glass, so I have been looking forward to reading Between the Sea and Sky, and I am happy to say I enjoyed it even more than her first book. I loved the two worlds she created, the underwater world, and the surface world, which seems inspired by southern Europe in the early nineteenth century. And the romance was adorable! Highly recommended for readers who enjoy fairytales and historical fantasy.
Disclosure: Review copy provided by publisher.
Unable to make her way on the surface world alone, Esmerine seeks out the help of Alan, a young man from a winged race of people called the Fandarsee. As children, Esmerine and Alan played together on an island, but she hasn't seen him in several years, since he left to study. After reuniting, their feelings of friendship begin to grow into something more, but a love between them seems impossible, for Alan cannot live in the sea, and Esmerine cannot live on land without terrible pain, unless she permanently gives up her ability to return to the sea.
I really enjoyed Jaclyn Dolamore's debut novel, Magic Under Glass, so I have been looking forward to reading Between the Sea and Sky, and I am happy to say I enjoyed it even more than her first book. I loved the two worlds she created, the underwater world, and the surface world, which seems inspired by southern Europe in the early nineteenth century. And the romance was adorable! Highly recommended for readers who enjoy fairytales and historical fantasy.
Disclosure: Review copy provided by publisher.
October 14, 2011
This is the perfect love story between a winged boy and a mermaid. The reader can expect to be transported into a different land where many things are possible. Who knows? Mermaids can even read books!
Esmerine is a great character to read about. She is inquisitive, almost remniscent of Disney's Ariel, as well as compassionate and has a capacity for bravery and stoicism that is amazing for a mermaid. Alandare is far more staid, slightly too intellectual, and sometimes tries to become something he is not. They used to be friends when they were children, but Alandare left Esmerine when he believed that a winged boy and mermaid could never remain friends.
Esmerine must leave the ocean to search for her sister not long after her sirens' induction. She was looking towards a life of being a siren, slightly boring, but expected. Now she has the chance to discover more of the world and get back in touch with one of her lovely books.
I really enjoyed this story. I loved Esmerine's character, she really held my attention. Alandare was a good character, a little too stuffy, but he needed Esmerine to loosen him up. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow and develop. The events were exciting, the reader never knows quite what to expect. The author writes very fluidly, the transitions are smooth. This book is highly recommended to anyone who is young at heart.
February 19, 2015
All Esmerine, a mermaid, wants to do is to become a Siren and work with her sister, Dosinia. When Dosinia is believed trapped on the land by a human, Esmerine decides to rescue her, but changing her tail into legs means that every step is painful. In the capital city Esmerine meets a friend who she has not seen for years Alander who belongs to a winged race of people called Fandarsee, and together they search for Dosinia. As they get closer to Dosinia there rekindle their friendship but is it able to develop into more with them being from different worlds.
Between the Sea and Sky is an enjoyable, sweet fantasy novel with a fairytale feel to it. It is a bit slow paced and while it is predictable it is a nice romantic book.
Esmerine is a sweet and naïve girl but she never gives up and a likeable character. Alan is distant and cold to begin with but he does get better but I still struggled to connect with his character.
Between the Sea and Sky is a cute book and I would recommend it to people who enjoy light fantasy novels and the other book by Jaclyn Dolamore.
This and my other reviews can be found at Amethyst Bookwyrm
Between the Sea and Sky is an enjoyable, sweet fantasy novel with a fairytale feel to it. It is a bit slow paced and while it is predictable it is a nice romantic book.
Esmerine is a sweet and naïve girl but she never gives up and a likeable character. Alan is distant and cold to begin with but he does get better but I still struggled to connect with his character.
Between the Sea and Sky is a cute book and I would recommend it to people who enjoy light fantasy novels and the other book by Jaclyn Dolamore.
This and my other reviews can be found at Amethyst Bookwyrm
Want to read
July 8, 2010I've seen this book's cover and it is so so gorgeous!
Read
January 4, 2019So recently I moved away from my home state and transferred my job to work in a different store. I only mention this because this book, Between the Sea and Sky by Jaclyn Dolamore, was a going away gift from one of my coworkers. She gave me two books and this is the first on that I read. I’m going to read the second book next. I actually almost didn’t even bother to review this book. Not because it was bad, but because it’s just such a short book. I started it on my lunch break at work today, which is 45 minutes long. When I picked it up to continue reading it after I got home, I realized that I was already halfway through it. I’m not sure if that’s because it was such a short book or if it’s because the storyline hooked me.
That’s probably the only thing I really loved about Between the Sea and Sky, the storyline. The book is about a mermaid, Esmerine, who goes in search of her sister, Dosia, who has disappeared after telling Esmerine about meeting some human boys on the island. While on the adventure of finding her sister she finds her childhood friend Alander, who goes by Alan now. As soon as Alan came into the picture I knew there would be some kind of love struggle between the two. Alan was a winged person, which was really hard to picture because there wasn’t that much description about him or what his wings looked like. The two travel to a few different places together trying to find Esmerine’s sister. While on their travels, they both realize the seriousness of their feelings for the other. Of course, they both try to fight it because of their different species, even though mermaids can give themselves to a human if they choose to do so. Alan didn’t want to make her do anything. I liked both of the main characters, but feel like they could have been developed so much more. I just didn’t seem to get as attached to them as I usually do with the main characters in most of the books I read.
As I mentioned, I loved the storyline. A love affair between a mermaid and a winged person; childhood friends that should have always been together, what a great storyline. I just think the author could have done so much more with this story idea. I feel like it was kept very simple when it could and should have been such an amazing story. There were so many details left out, so many settings and moments within this story that could have been expounded upon. I’m just a bit disappointed with the lack of detail in this book. This story had so much potential to be a new favorite book of mine, except it wasn’t written as it could be. While I am disappointed by the lack of descriptions about many of the places the story takes place in it was still a good story. I was fairly amused by the banter between the characters. I liked them all well enough.
Overall I probably won’t read this book again for quite a while, but it was a good and amusing quick read. I won’t demand that you go buy it now like I do for many other books that I read, but if you find it at the library and you’re looking for a quick read, this definitely was for me. I liked it, but I’m not over the moon about it.
That’s probably the only thing I really loved about Between the Sea and Sky, the storyline. The book is about a mermaid, Esmerine, who goes in search of her sister, Dosia, who has disappeared after telling Esmerine about meeting some human boys on the island. While on the adventure of finding her sister she finds her childhood friend Alander, who goes by Alan now. As soon as Alan came into the picture I knew there would be some kind of love struggle between the two. Alan was a winged person, which was really hard to picture because there wasn’t that much description about him or what his wings looked like. The two travel to a few different places together trying to find Esmerine’s sister. While on their travels, they both realize the seriousness of their feelings for the other. Of course, they both try to fight it because of their different species, even though mermaids can give themselves to a human if they choose to do so. Alan didn’t want to make her do anything. I liked both of the main characters, but feel like they could have been developed so much more. I just didn’t seem to get as attached to them as I usually do with the main characters in most of the books I read.
As I mentioned, I loved the storyline. A love affair between a mermaid and a winged person; childhood friends that should have always been together, what a great storyline. I just think the author could have done so much more with this story idea. I feel like it was kept very simple when it could and should have been such an amazing story. There were so many details left out, so many settings and moments within this story that could have been expounded upon. I’m just a bit disappointed with the lack of detail in this book. This story had so much potential to be a new favorite book of mine, except it wasn’t written as it could be. While I am disappointed by the lack of descriptions about many of the places the story takes place in it was still a good story. I was fairly amused by the banter between the characters. I liked them all well enough.
Overall I probably won’t read this book again for quite a while, but it was a good and amusing quick read. I won’t demand that you go buy it now like I do for many other books that I read, but if you find it at the library and you’re looking for a quick read, this definitely was for me. I liked it, but I’m not over the moon about it.
October 12, 2015
Originally posted at Small Review
3.5 stars (explanation of rating system)
I'm a mythological racist
I realized something about myself when reading Between the Sea and Sky: I totally stereotype mythological creatures. And I don't really like it when their books deviate too much from my preconceptions.
When it comes to mermaid books, I expect and want them to be light frothy fun with a sweet romance and an "easy read" plot. Luckily, Between the Sea and Sky perfectly fit my mermaid stereotypes and gave me exactly what I wanted.
Esmerine
Esmerine is my perfect mermaid. She's super sweet and a little naive. She has an almost childlike openness and I couldn't help but love her.
Will we be sleepover best friends? Eh, I don't think I got to know her well enough for that, but I would totally invite her to my book club (she's a reader! I love characters who love books.)
And, ok, we would also gush about her romance with Alan. Even though they met when they were kids, they hadn't seen each other for years and their reunion was kinda rocky. I could sympathize with the one-step-forward-two-steps-back progression of their relationship. No insta love or messy love triangles here!
Alan
Ugh, what a jerk. He had such a pole up his butt.
Wait! Don't run away yet! He's supposed to be jerky in the beginning, but I promise he gets a LOT better.
Still, even though he turns into a stand up guy, I spent a good part of the book thinking Esmerine could do SO much better that it was sort of hard to love him. I like him though and I think he and Esmerine make a cute couple. She'll mellow him out and I can see him doting on her and being all sweetly protective of her.
A message worthy of Disney
The big message here is following your heart, and every character struggles with the expectations of others versus their own desires. Can you really go wrong with such a heartwarming message? That kind of Disney-sweet message pretty much gets me every time, and Between the Sea and Sky was no exception.
I could also relate to the characters' feelings of not quite belonging. Many of the characters march to the beat of a different drummer, and I liked how Jaclyn Dolamore emphasized that it is okay to be different.
Bottom line
Cute, simple, sweet. It didn't blow my mind and I doubt I'll remember the details for very long, but I'd happily read it again sometime.
This is not an action-packed story, so don't expect a whole lot of plot depth or excitement. But there IS a good, simple plotline that works and sets a nice frame for the characters to move around in. The pacing is moderate and steady and the third-person narrative voice reminded me of a fairy tale (distant, but nice).
Good for YA/adult audiences looking for something in the lighter fairy tale vein, but probably appropriate for MG readers as well.
Originally posted at Small Review
3.5 stars (explanation of rating system)
I'm a mythological racist
I realized something about myself when reading Between the Sea and Sky: I totally stereotype mythological creatures. And I don't really like it when their books deviate too much from my preconceptions.
When it comes to mermaid books, I expect and want them to be light frothy fun with a sweet romance and an "easy read" plot. Luckily, Between the Sea and Sky perfectly fit my mermaid stereotypes and gave me exactly what I wanted.
Esmerine
Esmerine is my perfect mermaid. She's super sweet and a little naive. She has an almost childlike openness and I couldn't help but love her.
Will we be sleepover best friends? Eh, I don't think I got to know her well enough for that, but I would totally invite her to my book club (she's a reader! I love characters who love books.)
And, ok, we would also gush about her romance with Alan. Even though they met when they were kids, they hadn't seen each other for years and their reunion was kinda rocky. I could sympathize with the one-step-forward-two-steps-back progression of their relationship. No insta love or messy love triangles here!
Alan
Ugh, what a jerk. He had such a pole up his butt.
Wait! Don't run away yet! He's supposed to be jerky in the beginning, but I promise he gets a LOT better.
Still, even though he turns into a stand up guy, I spent a good part of the book thinking Esmerine could do SO much better that it was sort of hard to love him. I like him though and I think he and Esmerine make a cute couple. She'll mellow him out and I can see him doting on her and being all sweetly protective of her.
A message worthy of Disney
The big message here is following your heart, and every character struggles with the expectations of others versus their own desires. Can you really go wrong with such a heartwarming message? That kind of Disney-sweet message pretty much gets me every time, and Between the Sea and Sky was no exception.
I could also relate to the characters' feelings of not quite belonging. Many of the characters march to the beat of a different drummer, and I liked how Jaclyn Dolamore emphasized that it is okay to be different.
Bottom line
Cute, simple, sweet. It didn't blow my mind and I doubt I'll remember the details for very long, but I'd happily read it again sometime.
This is not an action-packed story, so don't expect a whole lot of plot depth or excitement. But there IS a good, simple plotline that works and sets a nice frame for the characters to move around in. The pacing is moderate and steady and the third-person narrative voice reminded me of a fairy tale (distant, but nice).
Good for YA/adult audiences looking for something in the lighter fairy tale vein, but probably appropriate for MG readers as well.
Originally posted at Small Review
October 16, 2011
4.5 stars
This is a magical, fascinating historical fantasy that reads like a classic fairytale with it's rich lore, sweet romance and exciting adventure. I fell in love with Jaclyn's writing after reading her debut Magic Under Glass and I really loved the magical world of sirens and winged people she introduced me to with Between the Sea and Sky. Jaclyn's writing is whimsical, magical and completely intriguing to me. True to her creative writing style, she has a richly detailed setting, and an adoring romance that's simple, sweet, and innocent.
The story follows Esmerine, main character who's just become a Siren, an honor that only her and her older sister Dosia share within their family. Having been close and yearning for a sense of adventure, Dosia goes missing after telling her sister she's visited with humans before in their world, a dangerous thing to do for any mermaid. Fearing for her sister's life, Esmerine enters the human world to find her sister and an old childhood crush in Alan, the winged boy she used to play with as a child. What ensures is an adventure into a new world, a beautiful country side, and a rekindled romance. I really liked how these two love interests were re-introduced to each other and how their feelings for one another grew over the course of Esmerine's search for her sister.
Aside from the sweet love story, I loved the story's unique, richly detailed mermaid lore. I was really fascinated with the way Jaclyn coupled the siren myhtology with that of the winged people, also known as Fandarsee, which Alan is. I loved the two different worlds Jaclyn created both under water and above, and the way she merged them together. I never would have thought to merge these two distinct lore together and the way Jaclyn did it was brilliant.
I like it when a story's setting isn't dated, and it has an appealing early turn of the century feel, which this story has. For me, it makes the story feel ageless and it has a fairytale quality to it. I thoroughly enjoy Jaclyn's writing. I know I can sit down and I'll instantly be whisked away into her story. Between the Sea and Sky is one of those charming, delightful, quick reads and that I sat down and enjoyed one sunny afternoon. My only compliant is that the ending felt a little too rushed. I wish it had been a little more drawn out. I highly recommend picking this book up if you enjoy a simple love story, mermaids and a story that reads like a fairytale. It's a clean cut, wonderful read.
This is a magical, fascinating historical fantasy that reads like a classic fairytale with it's rich lore, sweet romance and exciting adventure. I fell in love with Jaclyn's writing after reading her debut Magic Under Glass and I really loved the magical world of sirens and winged people she introduced me to with Between the Sea and Sky. Jaclyn's writing is whimsical, magical and completely intriguing to me. True to her creative writing style, she has a richly detailed setting, and an adoring romance that's simple, sweet, and innocent.
The story follows Esmerine, main character who's just become a Siren, an honor that only her and her older sister Dosia share within their family. Having been close and yearning for a sense of adventure, Dosia goes missing after telling her sister she's visited with humans before in their world, a dangerous thing to do for any mermaid. Fearing for her sister's life, Esmerine enters the human world to find her sister and an old childhood crush in Alan, the winged boy she used to play with as a child. What ensures is an adventure into a new world, a beautiful country side, and a rekindled romance. I really liked how these two love interests were re-introduced to each other and how their feelings for one another grew over the course of Esmerine's search for her sister.
Aside from the sweet love story, I loved the story's unique, richly detailed mermaid lore. I was really fascinated with the way Jaclyn coupled the siren myhtology with that of the winged people, also known as Fandarsee, which Alan is. I loved the two different worlds Jaclyn created both under water and above, and the way she merged them together. I never would have thought to merge these two distinct lore together and the way Jaclyn did it was brilliant.
I like it when a story's setting isn't dated, and it has an appealing early turn of the century feel, which this story has. For me, it makes the story feel ageless and it has a fairytale quality to it. I thoroughly enjoy Jaclyn's writing. I know I can sit down and I'll instantly be whisked away into her story. Between the Sea and Sky is one of those charming, delightful, quick reads and that I sat down and enjoyed one sunny afternoon. My only compliant is that the ending felt a little too rushed. I wish it had been a little more drawn out. I highly recommend picking this book up if you enjoy a simple love story, mermaids and a story that reads like a fairytale. It's a clean cut, wonderful read.
August 1, 2024
When I was listening to one of Lidiya Foxglove Youtube videos and she mentioned this book she wrote under a pen name I knew I wanted to read this one. I like reading about mermaids and add in the winged folk and I was super curious about this one. I am glad I picked this one up as I had a great time reading it.
Between the Sea and Sky follows the point of view of Esmerine who used to be friends with a winged boy who taught her to read. Now years later she hasn't seen him in years and is becoming a siren. When her sister is kidnapped by a man and taken to land Esmerine goes on land to find her. Along the way she reconnect with her winged folk friend and they team up to find her sister.
I just really liked the set up for this story, the characters and the world. I liked reading about Esmerine and seeing what life was like as a mermaid, before she goes to search for her sister. Then there was seeing her experience of being on land and how much walking hurt, but how determined she was to find her sister. I liked seeing her reconnect with Alan and seeing them grow closer again. And experiencing what life on land is like as well as a bit about the winged folk.
I liked the romance between Esmerine and Alan, although I would've loved a few more scenes between them and seeing them connect. I really liked them together and I liked how so much of their connection build forth upon the bond they had as children, but the also have both changed and have to get to know each other again. The bit at the end also felt a bit fast, but that might also be because I just wanted to read more of them. The ending is really sweet and I liked the glimpse of their future.
The world building was well done and I liked getting a feel for the mermaids, humans as well as winged folk. While there is a lot more I wanted to know I feel the book does a good job of giving enough information to make it come alive without bogging down the pace of the story. I just love world building and wanted to know even more. I liked how all three species felt distinct and had their own culture with their own customs and habits as well as beliefs.
To summarize: This was a lovely fantasy romance story between a mermaid and a winged boy. I liked reading about Esmerine and her determination to find her sister while along the way she reconnect with her childhood friend. I liked the romance between them, although I couldn't help but want more of them as I enjoyed reading about them. The world building is well done with enough information to get a feel for the different species.
Between the Sea and Sky follows the point of view of Esmerine who used to be friends with a winged boy who taught her to read. Now years later she hasn't seen him in years and is becoming a siren. When her sister is kidnapped by a man and taken to land Esmerine goes on land to find her. Along the way she reconnect with her winged folk friend and they team up to find her sister.
I just really liked the set up for this story, the characters and the world. I liked reading about Esmerine and seeing what life was like as a mermaid, before she goes to search for her sister. Then there was seeing her experience of being on land and how much walking hurt, but how determined she was to find her sister. I liked seeing her reconnect with Alan and seeing them grow closer again. And experiencing what life on land is like as well as a bit about the winged folk.
I liked the romance between Esmerine and Alan, although I would've loved a few more scenes between them and seeing them connect. I really liked them together and I liked how so much of their connection build forth upon the bond they had as children, but the also have both changed and have to get to know each other again. The bit at the end also felt a bit fast, but that might also be because I just wanted to read more of them. The ending is really sweet and I liked the glimpse of their future.
The world building was well done and I liked getting a feel for the mermaids, humans as well as winged folk. While there is a lot more I wanted to know I feel the book does a good job of giving enough information to make it come alive without bogging down the pace of the story. I just love world building and wanted to know even more. I liked how all three species felt distinct and had their own culture with their own customs and habits as well as beliefs.
To summarize: This was a lovely fantasy romance story between a mermaid and a winged boy. I liked reading about Esmerine and her determination to find her sister while along the way she reconnect with her childhood friend. I liked the romance between them, although I couldn't help but want more of them as I enjoyed reading about them. The world building is well done with enough information to get a feel for the different species.
October 25, 2011
I've been looking forward to Between the Sea and Sky by Jaclyn Dolamore for quite a while now. I love stories that mix fantasy with fairy tale vibes - and this story definitely delivers that! It is a pretty calm story overall, giving readers a chance to get to know the characters and embrace the legends and traditions they live under.
When the book opens, Esmerine is undergoing the ceremony that will make her a siren, setting her apart from the mermaid majority. She joins her older sister, who is also a siren, and looks forward to the time they'll be able to spend together. Oops, too bad her older sister decides to cash in her siren magic to marry a human on land. Esmerine and her family are devastated, and Esmerine is determined to set out and make sure her sister is okay. She tracks down her childhood friend Alandare to help her even though she hasn't seen him in several years. Their friendship is quite complicated, considering he is of a race that can fly.
So, basically Esmerine and Alandare are opposites. Alan also isn't quite as sweet and accommodating as he was when they were kids, so things start out pretty awkward. It doesn't take them too long to find a rhythm together though, and Alan devotes himself to helping Esmerine find her sister fairly willingly.
One thing I loved is that none of the characters are perfect. This is a fairly short book, and I love that Jaclyn took the time to explore the character's faults (stubbornness, fear, impatience, anger...) - it definitely makes them seem more realistic and well-rounded. Definite kudos there. I also think the way Esmerine and Alandare went from "uhh...nice to see you again? maybe?" to "okay, we can do this whole friends thing" to "let's get it onnnn" was very well done. Once again, for a short book - I was highly impressed by the fact that nothing seemed hurried.
Well, now that I say that...at first I felt like the ending might have been rushed. Then I beat my head against the desk when I realized I only felt that way because I'm so woefully out of practice of reading stand-alone books. I finally have an author that doesn't needlessly drag her story into a series and it is a sad day when I fail to appreciate that.
So, if you're in the mood for a nice, flowing story that focuses on the characters without a great deal of significant plot detail - this is definitely a book worth picking up! I really enjoyed getting to know the characters and the world in which they lived.
When the book opens, Esmerine is undergoing the ceremony that will make her a siren, setting her apart from the mermaid majority. She joins her older sister, who is also a siren, and looks forward to the time they'll be able to spend together. Oops, too bad her older sister decides to cash in her siren magic to marry a human on land. Esmerine and her family are devastated, and Esmerine is determined to set out and make sure her sister is okay. She tracks down her childhood friend Alandare to help her even though she hasn't seen him in several years. Their friendship is quite complicated, considering he is of a race that can fly.
So, basically Esmerine and Alandare are opposites. Alan also isn't quite as sweet and accommodating as he was when they were kids, so things start out pretty awkward. It doesn't take them too long to find a rhythm together though, and Alan devotes himself to helping Esmerine find her sister fairly willingly.
One thing I loved is that none of the characters are perfect. This is a fairly short book, and I love that Jaclyn took the time to explore the character's faults (stubbornness, fear, impatience, anger...) - it definitely makes them seem more realistic and well-rounded. Definite kudos there. I also think the way Esmerine and Alandare went from "uhh...nice to see you again? maybe?" to "okay, we can do this whole friends thing" to "let's get it onnnn" was very well done. Once again, for a short book - I was highly impressed by the fact that nothing seemed hurried.
Well, now that I say that...at first I felt like the ending might have been rushed. Then I beat my head against the desk when I realized I only felt that way because I'm so woefully out of practice of reading stand-alone books. I finally have an author that doesn't needlessly drag her story into a series and it is a sad day when I fail to appreciate that.
So, if you're in the mood for a nice, flowing story that focuses on the characters without a great deal of significant plot detail - this is definitely a book worth picking up! I really enjoyed getting to know the characters and the world in which they lived.
October 30, 2011
This review was first posted at http://www.rubysreads.com.
First of all, I haven't read Magic Under Glass. Phew. Glad I got that off my chest. Also, despite a childhood obsession with Ariel, I'm not generally a fan of mermaid stories. For some bizarre reason I prefer books that take place on land. I'm just weird like that. However, Between the Sea and Sky mostly takes place on land (because, what else is between them? Duh.), so that wasn't a problem.
I think that Dolamore created an interesting world. She covered all the bases--good world-building, consequences and limits to the magical elements, character development, solid supporting characters--without really impressing me. I wasn't bored by Between the Sea and Sky, exactly, but it didn't move me. I didn't get much out of the romance, or even the central conflict. The story went on and I read it with little-to-no reaction. I felt no anticipation, excitement, disgust or frustration. And I'll be honest--some of my favorite books frustrate the HELL out of me at some point.
In part, this was because there wasn't any real risk to the main characters. There was no urgency to find the Esmerin'es sister, Dosinia, no countdown clock to race against. And Alandare rebels against his father...but not much more than he already has...at not at the risk of being disinherited or losing his father's respect. (By the way, "dashing" is far too strong a word to describe him.) These are the things that give great novels the kind of meat you can sink your teeth into. Between the Sea and Sky was bland, but featured enough solid writing to get me through to the end.
I have a copy of Magic Under Glass, and since so many people loved it, I'm still hoping to be able to read it (eventually). I'm also interested to see others' reactions to Between the Sea and Sky. Did you read it and love it? Would I have appreciated it more if I'd read Magic Under Glass first? Or maybe I missed something crucial in my reading? I didn't hate this book. My reaction was far worse--I was indifferent to it. Words no writer ever wants to hear. Sorry!
First of all, I haven't read Magic Under Glass. Phew. Glad I got that off my chest. Also, despite a childhood obsession with Ariel, I'm not generally a fan of mermaid stories. For some bizarre reason I prefer books that take place on land. I'm just weird like that. However, Between the Sea and Sky mostly takes place on land (because, what else is between them? Duh.), so that wasn't a problem.
I think that Dolamore created an interesting world. She covered all the bases--good world-building, consequences and limits to the magical elements, character development, solid supporting characters--without really impressing me. I wasn't bored by Between the Sea and Sky, exactly, but it didn't move me. I didn't get much out of the romance, or even the central conflict. The story went on and I read it with little-to-no reaction. I felt no anticipation, excitement, disgust or frustration. And I'll be honest--some of my favorite books frustrate the HELL out of me at some point.
In part, this was because there wasn't any real risk to the main characters. There was no urgency to find the Esmerin'es sister, Dosinia, no countdown clock to race against. And Alandare rebels against his father...but not much more than he already has...at not at the risk of being disinherited or losing his father's respect. (By the way, "dashing" is far too strong a word to describe him.) These are the things that give great novels the kind of meat you can sink your teeth into. Between the Sea and Sky was bland, but featured enough solid writing to get me through to the end.
I have a copy of Magic Under Glass, and since so many people loved it, I'm still hoping to be able to read it (eventually). I'm also interested to see others' reactions to Between the Sea and Sky. Did you read it and love it? Would I have appreciated it more if I'd read Magic Under Glass first? Or maybe I missed something crucial in my reading? I didn't hate this book. My reaction was far worse--I was indifferent to it. Words no writer ever wants to hear. Sorry!
November 7, 2011
Is it just me or does it seem like there is a downpour of mermaid themed books lately? Even with the amount of mermaid books on the market right now, I still wanted to read this book and see what sort of spin this author could bring to the mermaid tale. While I never read the authors first book Magic Under Glass, I understood that it was a sort of spin off from that one involving certain characters.
Again, since I have never read anything by this author before, I did enjoy this book and the tale of mermaids and sirens. I didn't get lost and the author explained everything to the point of being able to imagine myself in the undersea world. While I enjoyed the first few chapters involving the set up of the plot, it eventually started to flop for me. I couldn't connect with the characters and the interaction between everyone was not as established as it should have been. The main plot is for Esmerine to find her older sister Dosinia, but I never really felt the sisterly bond that should have formed early on to make it a plausible outcome.
While fans of the mermaid/siren world will more than likely enjoy this book, I am one of the few that would rather not set sail again on this voyage without some further fixes from the author.
Again, since I have never read anything by this author before, I did enjoy this book and the tale of mermaids and sirens. I didn't get lost and the author explained everything to the point of being able to imagine myself in the undersea world. While I enjoyed the first few chapters involving the set up of the plot, it eventually started to flop for me. I couldn't connect with the characters and the interaction between everyone was not as established as it should have been. The main plot is for Esmerine to find her older sister Dosinia, but I never really felt the sisterly bond that should have formed early on to make it a plausible outcome.
While fans of the mermaid/siren world will more than likely enjoy this book, I am one of the few that would rather not set sail again on this voyage without some further fixes from the author.
June 12, 2011
The story: Esmerine is a siren, but since her winged childhood friend Alan first introduced her to books, she’s yearned for adventures in the world above the sea. When her sister goes missing, she puts on legs and enlists Alan’s help to find Dosia. Which world does Esmerine belong in? I wrote on Twitter that this book reminds me of a fantasy L.M. Montgomery. The world-building is rich, full of delicious little details about what everyone’s wearing and eating, and Esmerine is a feisty, likable protagonist. This is exactly the sort of lovely little book I would have adored in middle school. Also: how pretty is that cover?
October 25, 2011
I had such high hopes for this book! the cover was gorgeous and the idea was really interesting, but I found it really lacking. It wasn`t bad, it just could have been so much more! there could have been so much more detail and emotion added. it was like a meal without salt. Then again, I do hold all mermaid books up to the ridiculously high standard of Donna Jo Napoli`s Sirena. I think that this was one adolescent book that really held more appeal for adolescents. oh well. Keep working Dolamore, I see promise!
May 28, 2016
This was a fun story. Esmerine was a strong character. I loved her determination to find her sister, even through all the pain and suffering she had to endure to search. I was curious to see how the story would end, but I wasn't disappointed - it was very good. If you like mermaid story, you'll probably enjoy this one.
May 26, 2011
So lush and fanciful, so sweetly old-fashioned. I loved reading this as an adult but if I had gotten ahold of it when I was 12 or 13 I would have read and reread my copy until it was in tatters.
Want to read
February 9, 2011I am totally into this mermaid craze that is hitting this year. I need this book in my life. Could the cover be any more lovely? Doubt it.
April 19, 2024
4 stars-
I actually really enjoyed this! I recently found the author’s channel on YouTube, and she recommended this as a really cozy read, and it absolutely is!
Light on plot, but it has a lovely, whimsical, fairy-tale like style that just really worked for me. The character work was good, and overall it was a delight. Really interested to read more of her books!
I’m honestly surprised at some of the negative reviews, but seems that the audience was expecting a really sophisticated fantasy story here which just wasn’t the aim of the book- think it’s just a case of the book not quite hitting the target audience. I think if you liked Legends and Lattes, this would be a great read!! Similar amount of plot and stakes.
I actually really enjoyed this! I recently found the author’s channel on YouTube, and she recommended this as a really cozy read, and it absolutely is!
Light on plot, but it has a lovely, whimsical, fairy-tale like style that just really worked for me. The character work was good, and overall it was a delight. Really interested to read more of her books!
I’m honestly surprised at some of the negative reviews, but seems that the audience was expecting a really sophisticated fantasy story here which just wasn’t the aim of the book- think it’s just a case of the book not quite hitting the target audience. I think if you liked Legends and Lattes, this would be a great read!! Similar amount of plot and stakes.
July 25, 2020
It was ok. I feel that it would be more suitable for a younger audience.
July 8, 2020
It was good! C’était kinda short not mad about it tho. I always love a good mermaid story. Maybe c’était pas le best mermaid book mais sa fait l’affaire. C rien de vrm powerful pis impactful, juste comme une petit light fantasy summer read :)
August 16, 2011
Evoking the classic fairytale feel of Hans Christian Andersen, Jaclyn Dolamore has woven a beautiful tale about a fish who loved a bird. Esmerine, a mermaid on the cusp of adulthood, anxiously awaits her siren’s initiation. For as long as she can remember, Esmerine and her sister Dosia have dreamed about being sirens together and a life beyond the confines of the sea. However, after Esmerine’s siren ceremony, Dosia goes missing. Esmerine, terrified that her sister has been lured to the human world to an existence of pain and misery, leaves behind sea and family determined to find Dosia and save her. Along the way, Esmerine stumbles upon an old childhood friend, the winged man, Alander. Parted by circumstances beyond their control so many years before, Esmerine and Alander have never forgotten one another, and their friendship begins evolving into something more. Can there be a happily ever after for a love that exists between the sea and sky?
As with her lovely debut, Magic Under Glass, Dolamore has once again demonstrated her incredible ability to craft beautiful fairytale worlds and characters. Mermaids who can transform their fins to legs. A race of winged people who harness the magic of the wind. Humans from exotic lands unknown. Medieval towns, cities on cliffs and craggy rocks where sirens sing to passing ships. A mysterious history,only hinted at, filled with ancient beings, knights and oracles. All these things combine to create a fantastic, dimensional canvas onto which Dolamore paints her story.
Both main characters surprised me as they were somewhat different than what I was expecting, and pleasantly so. Esmerine was not at all what I imagined a siren to be – wild, free-spirited and perhaps a little impetuous or reckless. That description would more accurately be applied to Dosia. Instead Esmerine is cautious, mindful of consequences, responsible, and rather mature for her sixteen years. She adores the world of written stories ever since introduced to books by a much younger Alander who taught her to read. Because of her friendship with Alander, she’s endured the stigma from her fellow Mer of being that “odd” girl who associated with “that winged boy.”
Alander was an interesting male lead. Bookish, serious, intense and straight-laced, he was a unique change from the alpha-male heroes that so often populate young adult romances. With his rigid ideals of the man he should be and bearing the weight of his father’s disapproval, Alander is much different than the boy Esmerine once knew and watching his character develop as his friendship with her rekindles is one of my favorite parts of the story. I also love the descriptions of him and the Fandarsee, the winged people – what they looked like, their society and how their wings worked. It felt like a very creative, original concept.
The romance. It’s probably quite apparent by now that every book I pick up has some kind of romantic storyline. And this book is no exception. I just adore the concept of two totally different creatures falling in love with each other. Not only does their love face opposition by outside forces but because of what they are, it’s also completely impractical. But when is passion or love ever practical? It’s this wide gulf that separates them from being together – the crucial problem you don’t know if they’ll be able to find a way past – that drove this story for me.
While I loved the characters, the world and the romance of Between the Sea and Sky, at times the story fell just a little bit flat. At times it felt more like a middle grade novel than young adult, but it could be that this book is supposed to fall somewhere in between. At times the story seemed a bit rushed with not enough detail and depth for my liking, but then other times it felt like the pacing was really slow. I also had some issues with the conclusion that I’m not going to share here, for obvious reasons. But despite these detractors, I really enjoyed Esmerine and Alander’s story and being immersed in their world.
Overall, In Between the Sea and Sky, Dolamore has created an enchanting, beautiful fairytale about the things that would separate and the love that binds.
Thank you to both Good Choice Reading and Bloomsbury USA for hosting an ARC tour for Between the Sea and Sky!
As with her lovely debut, Magic Under Glass, Dolamore has once again demonstrated her incredible ability to craft beautiful fairytale worlds and characters. Mermaids who can transform their fins to legs. A race of winged people who harness the magic of the wind. Humans from exotic lands unknown. Medieval towns, cities on cliffs and craggy rocks where sirens sing to passing ships. A mysterious history,only hinted at, filled with ancient beings, knights and oracles. All these things combine to create a fantastic, dimensional canvas onto which Dolamore paints her story.
Both main characters surprised me as they were somewhat different than what I was expecting, and pleasantly so. Esmerine was not at all what I imagined a siren to be – wild, free-spirited and perhaps a little impetuous or reckless. That description would more accurately be applied to Dosia. Instead Esmerine is cautious, mindful of consequences, responsible, and rather mature for her sixteen years. She adores the world of written stories ever since introduced to books by a much younger Alander who taught her to read. Because of her friendship with Alander, she’s endured the stigma from her fellow Mer of being that “odd” girl who associated with “that winged boy.”
Alander was an interesting male lead. Bookish, serious, intense and straight-laced, he was a unique change from the alpha-male heroes that so often populate young adult romances. With his rigid ideals of the man he should be and bearing the weight of his father’s disapproval, Alander is much different than the boy Esmerine once knew and watching his character develop as his friendship with her rekindles is one of my favorite parts of the story. I also love the descriptions of him and the Fandarsee, the winged people – what they looked like, their society and how their wings worked. It felt like a very creative, original concept.
The romance. It’s probably quite apparent by now that every book I pick up has some kind of romantic storyline. And this book is no exception. I just adore the concept of two totally different creatures falling in love with each other. Not only does their love face opposition by outside forces but because of what they are, it’s also completely impractical. But when is passion or love ever practical? It’s this wide gulf that separates them from being together – the crucial problem you don’t know if they’ll be able to find a way past – that drove this story for me.
While I loved the characters, the world and the romance of Between the Sea and Sky, at times the story fell just a little bit flat. At times it felt more like a middle grade novel than young adult, but it could be that this book is supposed to fall somewhere in between. At times the story seemed a bit rushed with not enough detail and depth for my liking, but then other times it felt like the pacing was really slow. I also had some issues with the conclusion that I’m not going to share here, for obvious reasons. But despite these detractors, I really enjoyed Esmerine and Alander’s story and being immersed in their world.
Overall, In Between the Sea and Sky, Dolamore has created an enchanting, beautiful fairytale about the things that would separate and the love that binds.
Thank you to both Good Choice Reading and Bloomsbury USA for hosting an ARC tour for Between the Sea and Sky!
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