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Ocean's Gift #1
Ocean's Gift
Sirens don't fall in love with humans. For centuries it has been so...
But Sirena is different. She lost her first love to sharks and a storm, cursing the islands that stole him from her.
Times have changed and she must swim ashore once more, to the islands she once cursed.
Gone are the boats powered by sail and steam - jet boats with GPS are now the order of the day.
Enter Joe, the deckhand on the Dolphin. A handy man to have around when the lights go out. He'll fix your generator and have the lights back on in no time, no worries.
But can he seduce a siren?
Or will she swim away before he can uncover her secret?
A book about lobsters, beer and boobs, on some cursed islands off the coast of Western Australia. At least, that's how Joe tells it.
For Sirena, it's a very different story.
A tiny taste of what's in store:
The boat was almost full of water now, I realised in panic, as I groped for a bucket to start bailing. Throwing bucket after bucket overboard, I couldn't tell if I was making any difference to the water level in the boat.
One moment I was holding the bucket, about to scoop up more water, the next I was flying through the air. Immersed in cold, black water, I couldn't see the surface. I struggled, kicking in the direction I thought was up, and hit a rock. I jerked back reflexively and my head cleared the water. I gulped a huge lungful of air and grabbed for the rock. I had to hold on 'til daylight.
Another big wave broke. I tried to keep hold of the slimy rock, but I was pushed out of reach, drifting in the current. I tried to kick my legs, but I wasn't sure if I did. I couldn't feel my feet and the numbness was creeping up my legs.
I could hear the breakers on the outer reef, louder than they were from shore. I could feel the spray on my face. A wave washed over me and I was under the water again.
I thought I could feel someone beside me, rolling me over so my face was at the surface, pulling my body through the water.
All I could hear was an unearthly singing, high and sad, like some kind of suicidal dolphin. I could say I blacked out, but everything was already so black I wouldn't have noticed the difference.
I checked out of Hotel Consciousness. At least I got to dream of Vanessa naked.
Ocean's Gift series
This is the first book in Demelza Carlton's Ocean's Gift series, which currently includes:
Ocean's Gift (Book 1)
Ocean's Infiltrator (Book 2)
Water and Fire
You'll never look at mermaids the same way again.
But Sirena is different. She lost her first love to sharks and a storm, cursing the islands that stole him from her.
Times have changed and she must swim ashore once more, to the islands she once cursed.
Gone are the boats powered by sail and steam - jet boats with GPS are now the order of the day.
Enter Joe, the deckhand on the Dolphin. A handy man to have around when the lights go out. He'll fix your generator and have the lights back on in no time, no worries.
But can he seduce a siren?
Or will she swim away before he can uncover her secret?
A book about lobsters, beer and boobs, on some cursed islands off the coast of Western Australia. At least, that's how Joe tells it.
For Sirena, it's a very different story.
A tiny taste of what's in store:
The boat was almost full of water now, I realised in panic, as I groped for a bucket to start bailing. Throwing bucket after bucket overboard, I couldn't tell if I was making any difference to the water level in the boat.
One moment I was holding the bucket, about to scoop up more water, the next I was flying through the air. Immersed in cold, black water, I couldn't see the surface. I struggled, kicking in the direction I thought was up, and hit a rock. I jerked back reflexively and my head cleared the water. I gulped a huge lungful of air and grabbed for the rock. I had to hold on 'til daylight.
Another big wave broke. I tried to keep hold of the slimy rock, but I was pushed out of reach, drifting in the current. I tried to kick my legs, but I wasn't sure if I did. I couldn't feel my feet and the numbness was creeping up my legs.
I could hear the breakers on the outer reef, louder than they were from shore. I could feel the spray on my face. A wave washed over me and I was under the water again.
I thought I could feel someone beside me, rolling me over so my face was at the surface, pulling my body through the water.
All I could hear was an unearthly singing, high and sad, like some kind of suicidal dolphin. I could say I blacked out, but everything was already so black I wouldn't have noticed the difference.
I checked out of Hotel Consciousness. At least I got to dream of Vanessa naked.
Ocean's Gift series
This is the first book in Demelza Carlton's Ocean's Gift series, which currently includes:
Ocean's Gift (Book 1)
Ocean's Infiltrator (Book 2)
Water and Fire
You'll never look at mermaids the same way again.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 28, 2012
15 people are currently reading
596 people want to read
About the author
Demelza Carlton
935 books3,879 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Demelza Carlton has always loved the ocean, but on her first snorkelling trip she found she was afraid of fish.
She has since swum with sea lions, sharks and sea cucumbers and stood on spray-drenched cliffs over a seething sea as a seven-metre cyclonic swell surged in, shattering a shipwreck below.
Sensationalist spin? No - Demelza tends to take a camera with her so she can capture and share the moment later; shipwrecks, sharks and all.
Demelza now lives in Perth, Western Australia, the shark attack capital of the world.
The Ocean's Gift series was her first foray into fiction, followed by the Nightmares trilogy. She swears the Mel Goes to Hell series ambushed her on a crowded train and wouldn't leave her alone.
She has since swum with sea lions, sharks and sea cucumbers and stood on spray-drenched cliffs over a seething sea as a seven-metre cyclonic swell surged in, shattering a shipwreck below.
Sensationalist spin? No - Demelza tends to take a camera with her so she can capture and share the moment later; shipwrecks, sharks and all.
Demelza now lives in Perth, Western Australia, the shark attack capital of the world.
The Ocean's Gift series was her first foray into fiction, followed by the Nightmares trilogy. She swears the Mel Goes to Hell series ambushed her on a crowded train and wouldn't leave her alone.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
July 18, 2013
Laced with one part fantasy, one part maritime legends come-to-life, and a large dose of the mental by-play in a male’s mind, Ocean’s Gift is a cleverly crafted, tale of love, lust and lobsters. Okay, there is more to it, much more, and author Demelza Carlton has done a stellar job of tossing in some serious environmental warnings for mankind-very sneakily, I might add! Told from three points of view, one being Sirena’s, an elder on the mermaid council and our main female character, one from Joe, a blue-collar electrician in between jobs, working for a lobster fisherman, and one from a satellite character, a mermaid and Sirena’s daughter, who gives her thoughts more from an interested observer’s perspective. Man’s careless use of the Earth’s resources is endangering ALL life forms, not just humanity, so the Mermaid Council needs to learn what, if anything is being done, sending mermaids (who can assume a human appearance) around the globe to investigate. Pretty much the first thing seen as they land ashore to investigate, is Joe’s perfect arse! As a human, Sirena is a walking bombshell, the object of every man’s fantasy and good old Joe is living right next door to her! What he wouldn’t give to get up close and personal with Sirena! Imagine his shock when she seems interested in him, too! But can a human male and a mermaid find true love and happiness? Will Sirena risk everything to reveal herself to Joe?
Ocean’s Gift is very well-written as the characters pilot this tale along! From its humorous moments, tender moments, to the spicier moments on to the very end, Demelza Carlton has captured the essence of a fantasy/romance and added her own quirky style to it, particularly with Joe’s POV. I swear she spent some time as a fly on the wall at a “boys’ night out” party! Never again will I believe any man that says he looks for a good personality in a woman! Never.
Publication Date: November 28, 2012
Publisher: Lost Plot Press
Series: Ocean's Gift, #1
ISBN: 147939906X
Number of Pages: 253
Genre: Adult Fantasy/Romance
Age Recommendation: Adults
Available at: Smashwords / Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
Ocean’s Gift is very well-written as the characters pilot this tale along! From its humorous moments, tender moments, to the spicier moments on to the very end, Demelza Carlton has captured the essence of a fantasy/romance and added her own quirky style to it, particularly with Joe’s POV. I swear she spent some time as a fly on the wall at a “boys’ night out” party! Never again will I believe any man that says he looks for a good personality in a woman! Never.
Publication Date: November 28, 2012
Publisher: Lost Plot Press
Series: Ocean's Gift, #1
ISBN: 147939906X
Number of Pages: 253
Genre: Adult Fantasy/Romance
Age Recommendation: Adults
Available at: Smashwords / Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
July 24, 2013
(The Author was kind enough to provide me a free e-book.)
One of my favorite books is Jonathon Livingstone Seagull, by the one and only, Richard David Bach. Demelza Carlton’s first foray into fiction- ‘Oceans’ Gift’ comes very, very, close. Like Bach, Demelza is ‘original’, Bach has ‘seagulls’, Demelza has ‘mermaids’.
What can you say about a book, which presents the narrative in first person, four times over! And yet, each individual narrative blends seamlessly, to effortlessly carry the theme of the book, a theme which echoes the sound of the surf on the reefs, the cries of the dolphins and the taste of the saltwater spray.
Human and mermaid emotions are played out in delightfully small chapters, making me feel, like I was not reading but sipping from a bottle of Romanee-Conti. Like the wine, which languidly stirs the senses, Ocean’s Gift, stirs the male emotion and how! Elevating the erotic male perspective of the female form, into art.
Demelza’s knowledge of the deep sea, fishing lobsters, snorkeling and hobnobbing with denizens of the watery world lends credibility and above all substance to the narrative. Weaved in is humor, a bit of mystery and menace…
But most importantly, the book has a message, which the reader becomes aware of at the subliminal level…. What this message is and what is the peril mankind faces? For that you should read the book, or rather …..Savor it!
One of my favorite books is Jonathon Livingstone Seagull, by the one and only, Richard David Bach. Demelza Carlton’s first foray into fiction- ‘Oceans’ Gift’ comes very, very, close. Like Bach, Demelza is ‘original’, Bach has ‘seagulls’, Demelza has ‘mermaids’.
What can you say about a book, which presents the narrative in first person, four times over! And yet, each individual narrative blends seamlessly, to effortlessly carry the theme of the book, a theme which echoes the sound of the surf on the reefs, the cries of the dolphins and the taste of the saltwater spray.
Human and mermaid emotions are played out in delightfully small chapters, making me feel, like I was not reading but sipping from a bottle of Romanee-Conti. Like the wine, which languidly stirs the senses, Ocean’s Gift, stirs the male emotion and how! Elevating the erotic male perspective of the female form, into art.
Demelza’s knowledge of the deep sea, fishing lobsters, snorkeling and hobnobbing with denizens of the watery world lends credibility and above all substance to the narrative. Weaved in is humor, a bit of mystery and menace…
But most importantly, the book has a message, which the reader becomes aware of at the subliminal level…. What this message is and what is the peril mankind faces? For that you should read the book, or rather …..Savor it!
September 13, 2013
Ocean's Gift is a book that grabs you and holds you tight. I had no business starting this book late one night, but the night went much, much later as I watched the story unfold. The story is told from multiple perspectives, and I appreciated that the mermaid's voice and the way she tells the story is vastly different from the gritty way the male main character talks and thinks and feels. The author does a remarkable job of world-building, such as describing the way mermaid language is communicated through sound and gesture and cannot be precisely translated to English, or how mermaids are able to transform themselves to walk among us. Ocean's Gift has a fresh and often surprising plot, with a unique writing style that is spare but carries you swiftly along the narrative like an ocean current.
August 6, 2016
"Ocean's Gift" by Demelza Carlton is an excellent fantasy story that is in essence the love story between an Australian fisherman and a siren. Changes in the Oceanic environment force the water creatures to seek information from humans but they must do so without disclosing their existence.
The love story is sexy, convincing and quite moving and the environmental issues are handled with obvious love for nature and the ocean rather than as a merely political issue. This is beautifully written with great lead characters and a very enjoyable and pleasant read and first in a series.
The love story is sexy, convincing and quite moving and the environmental issues are handled with obvious love for nature and the ocean rather than as a merely political issue. This is beautifully written with great lead characters and a very enjoyable and pleasant read and first in a series.
August 3, 2016
Ocean’s Gift by Demelza Carlton left me gasping for breath. It seems like I have been waiting forever for an excellent mermaid story like this. Demelza Carlton says you will never look at mermaids the same way again and she is so right.
The cover for Ocean’s Gift had me stopping in my tracks. I knew I was going to read this book without looking any further. Mermaids, romance and a subtle ecological warning are some of the things to look forward to in this amazing novel. Demelza writes as if mermaids are real and they could be your next door neighbor. Her characters come alive on the pages as the fascinating story develops.
As soon as I hit 7%, I felt like jumping up and down for joy. I love mermaid stories and the writing and plot have me super excited to read more about Sirena and Joe. Will I be able to put down the book or will I have to read straight through? Curiosity makes me read on – what is the ocean’s gift?
The more I read, the more excited I became. I feel as if the book was written especially for me. Demelza Carlton writes with a light and comical air at times that made me smile and feel as if I was a part of their conversations as they puzzled over us humans actions and interactions.
Ocean’s Gift is written from three points of view, Joe’s, Sirena’s and Belinda’s. At first, I wasn’t sure I was going to like this, but I began to look forward to what each person would think and feel about the occurring events. I seemed to relate to each character on a deeper level when I read their viewpoint.
Joe – I fell for him and I was only 5% into the story. He made me smile and he looks pretty good too. He’s a sparky, an electrician. He lives with his folks and owns nothing. He works setting up remote mining camps and loves fishing. His biggest goal is to make enough money to buy his own home. He loves beer and boobs, no doubt about that.
His mining coworker asks him, “How’d you like to fish for two months and get paid for it?” My mind is spinning as different scenarios play out. Will there be a shipwreck? Will he almost drown and Sirena save him? How he will meet Sirena? Will they hook up?
Sirena (Vanessa) – a super hot babe and a bit of a hussy. She is the leader of the Elders and is determined to warn the humans of what is to come, but she still has time to play with Joe.
She was an elder among our people, but today she sounds as silly as the sixteen year old child who dared defy the entire Elder Council.
Belinda - Sirena’s daughter. I related to her easily. She is quick to anger and has a mouth like a sailor. She doesn’t hesitate to speak her mind. She keeps watch over Sirena, especially when she is with Joe.
Maria – a gay mermaid, not understanding humans at all and just wants to go home. I mean how real is that? A gay mermaid. I busted out laughing, loving it.
Demelza Carlton’s description of Belinda and Maria frolicking with the dolphins, had me wishing I was a mermaid too. Their version of fishing is so much different than ours. I would love to fly through the ocean with them, leaping and twisting in the wind, feeling the sea wash over me.
Joe threw his empty beer bottle into the ocean and it came back to him. I had to crack up laughing over this. How do you think that happened?
“Have you been playing with dolphins?”
The trio is there to warn the humans about the dire ocean conditions before it is too late. By saving humankind, they would be saving themselves. They are all females and need human males to perpetuate their species.
The ecological warning is very subtle and woven into the story in excellent fashion.
I thought I would be let down when the book was done, but I know another book is waiting to be read. An awesome ending that put a smile on my face, making me want to read the next book right now.
If I didn’t know better, I’d think this is a true story.
My favorite part????? I cannot pick just one.
I received this book in return for an honest and unbiased review. I am eager to read the next book in the series, Ocean’s Infiltrator.
Demelza Carlton
The cover for Ocean’s Gift had me stopping in my tracks. I knew I was going to read this book without looking any further. Mermaids, romance and a subtle ecological warning are some of the things to look forward to in this amazing novel. Demelza writes as if mermaids are real and they could be your next door neighbor. Her characters come alive on the pages as the fascinating story develops.
As soon as I hit 7%, I felt like jumping up and down for joy. I love mermaid stories and the writing and plot have me super excited to read more about Sirena and Joe. Will I be able to put down the book or will I have to read straight through? Curiosity makes me read on – what is the ocean’s gift?
The more I read, the more excited I became. I feel as if the book was written especially for me. Demelza Carlton writes with a light and comical air at times that made me smile and feel as if I was a part of their conversations as they puzzled over us humans actions and interactions.
Ocean’s Gift is written from three points of view, Joe’s, Sirena’s and Belinda’s. At first, I wasn’t sure I was going to like this, but I began to look forward to what each person would think and feel about the occurring events. I seemed to relate to each character on a deeper level when I read their viewpoint.
Joe – I fell for him and I was only 5% into the story. He made me smile and he looks pretty good too. He’s a sparky, an electrician. He lives with his folks and owns nothing. He works setting up remote mining camps and loves fishing. His biggest goal is to make enough money to buy his own home. He loves beer and boobs, no doubt about that.
His mining coworker asks him, “How’d you like to fish for two months and get paid for it?” My mind is spinning as different scenarios play out. Will there be a shipwreck? Will he almost drown and Sirena save him? How he will meet Sirena? Will they hook up?
Sirena (Vanessa) – a super hot babe and a bit of a hussy. She is the leader of the Elders and is determined to warn the humans of what is to come, but she still has time to play with Joe.
She was an elder among our people, but today she sounds as silly as the sixteen year old child who dared defy the entire Elder Council.
Belinda - Sirena’s daughter. I related to her easily. She is quick to anger and has a mouth like a sailor. She doesn’t hesitate to speak her mind. She keeps watch over Sirena, especially when she is with Joe.
Maria – a gay mermaid, not understanding humans at all and just wants to go home. I mean how real is that? A gay mermaid. I busted out laughing, loving it.
Demelza Carlton’s description of Belinda and Maria frolicking with the dolphins, had me wishing I was a mermaid too. Their version of fishing is so much different than ours. I would love to fly through the ocean with them, leaping and twisting in the wind, feeling the sea wash over me.
Joe threw his empty beer bottle into the ocean and it came back to him. I had to crack up laughing over this. How do you think that happened?
“Have you been playing with dolphins?”
The trio is there to warn the humans about the dire ocean conditions before it is too late. By saving humankind, they would be saving themselves. They are all females and need human males to perpetuate their species.
The ecological warning is very subtle and woven into the story in excellent fashion.
I thought I would be let down when the book was done, but I know another book is waiting to be read. An awesome ending that put a smile on my face, making me want to read the next book right now.
If I didn’t know better, I’d think this is a true story.
My favorite part????? I cannot pick just one.
I received this book in return for an honest and unbiased review. I am eager to read the next book in the series, Ocean’s Infiltrator.
Demelza Carlton
September 14, 2014
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This is my own personal opinion.
Sirena is a siren (mermaid), an elder of the mermaid council who had at a young age had seen her lover drowned. Sirens are all females - mermaids who need human males to create children, this is their duty. Joe is a human, a hard working Aussie guy who has plans to save his money and settle down.
Sirena goes to a fishing island in search of answers and information from the humans about the changes happening to the ocean (global warming?!). Joe is there working on a fishing boat during his holidays. She happens to be stunning and he happens to be hot.....
From the start, this book didn't grab me. It didn't draw me in. It took until half way through for it to start entertaining me. While it got better it certainly didn't grip me.
The writing is fine, but I found the structure very difficult to get into. It's structured with short chapters in the narrative of 3 different characters - Joe, Sirena/Vanessa, Apalala/Belinda. It was off putting at first...and then I felt like it just got in the way of building the story and adding depth to the characters - perhaps more due to the shortness of the chapters and the rapid changing of narratives. Plus I kind of thought this was a love story about Joe and Sirena - why did we get Belindas point of view? I'm assuming from some of her thoughts that there's probably going to be a book about her in the future. You do get used to it, but I'm definitely not a fan.
The story itself just moved a bit slow for my liking, with not a whole lot happening. I felt bored and disconnected. I didn't get to know this world or these characters. It felt very one-dimensional. I was confused about simple things that could've been explained so quickly but that then niggled at me the whole time or until they were answered further into the book. As far as the love aspect goes, there kind of isn't one in this book but the groundwork has been laid for the next.
Now for some positives - the way the sirens speak is quite entertaining! A highlight of the book was reading them talking to each other, especially about human foods and such. It was pretty funny. And as far as writing in a male POV this author did a great job.
It was a light read, with a predictable but effective cliffhanger. Just not for me.
Warning: explicit language and sexual content
Sirena is a siren (mermaid), an elder of the mermaid council who had at a young age had seen her lover drowned. Sirens are all females - mermaids who need human males to create children, this is their duty. Joe is a human, a hard working Aussie guy who has plans to save his money and settle down.
Sirena goes to a fishing island in search of answers and information from the humans about the changes happening to the ocean (global warming?!). Joe is there working on a fishing boat during his holidays. She happens to be stunning and he happens to be hot.....
From the start, this book didn't grab me. It didn't draw me in. It took until half way through for it to start entertaining me. While it got better it certainly didn't grip me.
The writing is fine, but I found the structure very difficult to get into. It's structured with short chapters in the narrative of 3 different characters - Joe, Sirena/Vanessa, Apalala/Belinda. It was off putting at first...and then I felt like it just got in the way of building the story and adding depth to the characters - perhaps more due to the shortness of the chapters and the rapid changing of narratives. Plus I kind of thought this was a love story about Joe and Sirena - why did we get Belindas point of view? I'm assuming from some of her thoughts that there's probably going to be a book about her in the future. You do get used to it, but I'm definitely not a fan.
The story itself just moved a bit slow for my liking, with not a whole lot happening. I felt bored and disconnected. I didn't get to know this world or these characters. It felt very one-dimensional. I was confused about simple things that could've been explained so quickly but that then niggled at me the whole time or until they were answered further into the book. As far as the love aspect goes, there kind of isn't one in this book but the groundwork has been laid for the next.
Now for some positives - the way the sirens speak is quite entertaining! A highlight of the book was reading them talking to each other, especially about human foods and such. It was pretty funny. And as far as writing in a male POV this author did a great job.
It was a light read, with a predictable but effective cliffhanger. Just not for me.
Warning: explicit language and sexual content
February 24, 2014
This isn't the first of Ms. Carlton's books that I've had the pleasure of reading. To be honest, I've read her Water & Fire novella prior to reading Ocean's Gift as well as her Nightmares of Caitlyn Lockyer. Let it be known that I was floored by the turnout from the former which sets us up phenomenally for the rest of the Ocean's Gift series!
In Ocean's Gift, we are introduced to Joe and Sirena (also known as Vanessa). If you've read Water & Fire, you're no stranger to Belinda who makes her return in this novel but more as an observist along with Maria who seems to have a strong dislike for humans (there are reasons).
Sirena is a mermaid elder and incidentally is tasked to find out any information on why there are negative changes happening in "the deep", well aware that changes are also occurring on the surface. These changes are rumored to also affect, not just sea life but the humans as well. If I'm reading too much into things, forgive me, but I think that I might not be the only one to presume that Carlton eludes to topics such as global warming and climate change and their effects on the world as we know it?
Anyhow, let's bring Joe into the mix. Ah Joe-a sparky-a human electrician to be more precise. On a two-month holiday, he sets forth on a fishing expedition and ends up becoming a deckhand aboard the Dolphin. Why complain when you're off doing what you want and get paid doing it, right?
Right away, Joe is taken with Sirena. Despite multiple warnings from his boss Skipper and a few others, to stay away from the siren, there exists a certain attraction between the two or is it simply because while he's off on holidays, being paid to fish, he also becomes the most sought out electrician on the island along with Sirena's personal Mr. Fix-It?
Ocean's Gift is a book filled with adventure, humor, romance and sexiness. As always, Carlton succeeds at leaving me intrigued in finding out what happens next in this series with a cliffhanger. I must say that I look forward to reading Ocean's Infiltrator next. I give this impeccably tailored read, that has kept me on the couch from the first page, a 5-stars!
In Ocean's Gift, we are introduced to Joe and Sirena (also known as Vanessa). If you've read Water & Fire, you're no stranger to Belinda who makes her return in this novel but more as an observist along with Maria who seems to have a strong dislike for humans (there are reasons).
Sirena is a mermaid elder and incidentally is tasked to find out any information on why there are negative changes happening in "the deep", well aware that changes are also occurring on the surface. These changes are rumored to also affect, not just sea life but the humans as well. If I'm reading too much into things, forgive me, but I think that I might not be the only one to presume that Carlton eludes to topics such as global warming and climate change and their effects on the world as we know it?
Anyhow, let's bring Joe into the mix. Ah Joe-a sparky-a human electrician to be more precise. On a two-month holiday, he sets forth on a fishing expedition and ends up becoming a deckhand aboard the Dolphin. Why complain when you're off doing what you want and get paid doing it, right?
Right away, Joe is taken with Sirena. Despite multiple warnings from his boss Skipper and a few others, to stay away from the siren, there exists a certain attraction between the two or is it simply because while he's off on holidays, being paid to fish, he also becomes the most sought out electrician on the island along with Sirena's personal Mr. Fix-It?
Ocean's Gift is a book filled with adventure, humor, romance and sexiness. As always, Carlton succeeds at leaving me intrigued in finding out what happens next in this series with a cliffhanger. I must say that I look forward to reading Ocean's Infiltrator next. I give this impeccably tailored read, that has kept me on the couch from the first page, a 5-stars!
July 21, 2013
Demelza Carlton
Ocean's Gift
Ocean's Gift, #1
This is definitely not your typical mermaid story, and had a slightly more real feel to it (I know, I sometimes live in an imaginary bubble where all these creatures are real). It was a little hard to read in the beginning, but once I got used to the author's writing style and the characters it started to flow more smoothly (it only took a few chapters and the chapters are all pretty short). Each chapter alternates between the 4 main characters POV, which I loved, because I got to see the whole picture and with some chapters being as little as 2/3 pages long, the story was definitely fast moving never giving me time to get bored. I could clearly see the increasing development of the characters throughout the book, and although some of the descriptive nature was a little more than needed, I didn't find this subtracted from the storyline and could read over it easily enough.
Vanessa ("AKA Sirena") and her daughters Maria & Belinda ("AKA Apalala") have been tasked with finding out if the humans know anything about the changes that are happening on the sea beds which could disrupt the mermaid's way of life. Maria has an obvious distrust of humans, which is interesting to read about and all their thoughts / explanations of human things is amusing. The family is no different to any other family, with Maria & Belinda questioning things and not understanding why Vanessa is so taken with Joe. Overall I enjoyed the book, and would happily continue reading the series.
I received an e-copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Ocean's Gift
Ocean's Gift, #1
This is definitely not your typical mermaid story, and had a slightly more real feel to it (I know, I sometimes live in an imaginary bubble where all these creatures are real). It was a little hard to read in the beginning, but once I got used to the author's writing style and the characters it started to flow more smoothly (it only took a few chapters and the chapters are all pretty short). Each chapter alternates between the 4 main characters POV, which I loved, because I got to see the whole picture and with some chapters being as little as 2/3 pages long, the story was definitely fast moving never giving me time to get bored. I could clearly see the increasing development of the characters throughout the book, and although some of the descriptive nature was a little more than needed, I didn't find this subtracted from the storyline and could read over it easily enough.
Vanessa ("AKA Sirena") and her daughters Maria & Belinda ("AKA Apalala") have been tasked with finding out if the humans know anything about the changes that are happening on the sea beds which could disrupt the mermaid's way of life. Maria has an obvious distrust of humans, which is interesting to read about and all their thoughts / explanations of human things is amusing. The family is no different to any other family, with Maria & Belinda questioning things and not understanding why Vanessa is so taken with Joe. Overall I enjoyed the book, and would happily continue reading the series.
I received an e-copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2013
The Australian colloquialisms had me grappling here and there to get a handle on the tale(no pun intended). We have blokes, for dudes. Nah, for no and mates for friends not to mention a strain of humor a tad bit to the left of smooth. I would class this a light read, certainly not something that would make you overly thoughtful. It has entertaining moments, but is a mildly graphic romance with a Siren fantasy element at heart. I think a young adult audience may enjoy it.
The most striking character is Joe, who manages to pull a smile and a giggle with his candid thoughts and all male attitude to his mermaid girl wonder. The fantasy aspect is not very detailed, and indeed, most of the action takes place on land, boat or bed(take your pick!). I would recommend this as a beach read and would imagine that most of the target audience would rush to read the sequel, particularly as the unusual ending had quite a bit of bait(ha!) to it.
The most striking character is Joe, who manages to pull a smile and a giggle with his candid thoughts and all male attitude to his mermaid girl wonder. The fantasy aspect is not very detailed, and indeed, most of the action takes place on land, boat or bed(take your pick!). I would recommend this as a beach read and would imagine that most of the target audience would rush to read the sequel, particularly as the unusual ending had quite a bit of bait(ha!) to it.
January 2, 2016
Having read the prequel series by Ms. Carlton, I began Ocean's Gift already in love with the mermaids. Worried about the state of the changing Earth, the mermaid elder council sends three of its members to find out more information from the humans. The novel surrounds the experiences of Sirena, known on land as Vanessa. Stationed with two of her daughters in a remote fishing island cluster, Vanessa meets Joe, a sparky (that's electrician for those of you unfamiliar with the venacular), and a relationship develops. The first in a trilogy, this novel sets the stage for greater things that I cannot wait to read and explore. Having been to Australia, Ocean's Gift makes me want to return, with descriptions of vivid, but trecherous oceans, and rocky beaches. I loved the research that clearly went into this novel, as I felt like I was right there on the fishing boat. Steamy, but still powerful, Ocean's Gift is a solid five-star read, and I'll be picking up the next one as soon as I'm able!
December 1, 2013
This is a wonderful tale which introduces some amazing characters.
I loved Joe, he was so down to earth and the kind of bloke you'd be happy to bring home to meet your mother. It is a clever ploy to share his thoughts about the beautiful Vanessa with the reader which shows he is a red-blooded male at heart.
The plight of the mermaids and their search amongst the human world for answers to the changing role of the oceans and the effect this might bring to their fragile lives gives the novel a very real theme of damage to the environment caused by man.
There was a tantalising amount of information given about these mysterious creatures to leave the reader eager for more in further books in the series.
The relationships and characters were very real for me and I definitely look forward to enjoying more books in this series.
I loved Joe, he was so down to earth and the kind of bloke you'd be happy to bring home to meet your mother. It is a clever ploy to share his thoughts about the beautiful Vanessa with the reader which shows he is a red-blooded male at heart.
The plight of the mermaids and their search amongst the human world for answers to the changing role of the oceans and the effect this might bring to their fragile lives gives the novel a very real theme of damage to the environment caused by man.
There was a tantalising amount of information given about these mysterious creatures to leave the reader eager for more in further books in the series.
The relationships and characters were very real for me and I definitely look forward to enjoying more books in this series.
November 10, 2013
Who can resist a love story about mermaids and handymen? I know I can't!
Carlton does a fabulous job introducing us to the world of mermaids, where one in particular comes up on shore and meets an electrician who happens to be down on his luck.
This story is very well written, with a fascinating mythos to support it. I love original ParaRom and Ocean's Gift definitely goes to the top of my list!
I also loved how down to earth Joe was. You know, often in ParaRom it's the woman who is the plain Jane who is going through some type of life crisis, so it was refreshing to see the roles reversed. And there is plenty of sexy romance to go around!
This is a must read!! All in all, I give Ocean's Gift 5 out of 5 stars.
Carlton does a fabulous job introducing us to the world of mermaids, where one in particular comes up on shore and meets an electrician who happens to be down on his luck.
This story is very well written, with a fascinating mythos to support it. I love original ParaRom and Ocean's Gift definitely goes to the top of my list!
I also loved how down to earth Joe was. You know, often in ParaRom it's the woman who is the plain Jane who is going through some type of life crisis, so it was refreshing to see the roles reversed. And there is plenty of sexy romance to go around!
This is a must read!! All in all, I give Ocean's Gift 5 out of 5 stars.
May 3, 2013
The Ocean's Gift is a well spun, enthralling tale.
Demelza Carlton has the ability to paint a vividly detailed picture with her words without bogging the reader down - by the end of the book I felt like I could actually have been there, watching the waves...
The Author's take on how longer lived beings who are more 'in tune' with our world view the human race gives cause to stop and think. If we lived longer, would we treat our planet differently?
Would we strive to do better? In this story (which I hope is a prequel for more tales to come) the charachters come to life with a personality each their own as if trapping the reader in a Siren's song.
Demelza Carlton has the ability to paint a vividly detailed picture with her words without bogging the reader down - by the end of the book I felt like I could actually have been there, watching the waves...
The Author's take on how longer lived beings who are more 'in tune' with our world view the human race gives cause to stop and think. If we lived longer, would we treat our planet differently?
Would we strive to do better? In this story (which I hope is a prequel for more tales to come) the charachters come to life with a personality each their own as if trapping the reader in a Siren's song.
August 19, 2013
The characters are depicted in such a way that you want to find out how they get on. From the loveable Joe to the fiery Belinda, each have a personality that fits seamlessly throughout.
Vanessa and Joe's relationship is fraught with mishaps, danger and insecurity. You can't help but turn the page and watch it develop.
I'm excited to read more about Belinda and some of the others of their kind as the author has indulged us with more tales from the Ocean's depths.
Vanessa and Joe's relationship is fraught with mishaps, danger and insecurity. You can't help but turn the page and watch it develop.
I'm excited to read more about Belinda and some of the others of their kind as the author has indulged us with more tales from the Ocean's depths.
July 27, 2013
A mermaid story for the 21st century, full of sexy romance but overshadowed by the threatening reality of global warming. I really enjoyed this book, a very entertaining read. Just watch out for the sharks! And hide your whisky!
July 24, 2014
I usually stay away from romance novels, to be honest, as I imagine a lot of male readers do, but this one has a lot going for the discerning reader, all alleged gender biases aside. For one, it’s one hell of a fantasy, and perhaps the best mermaid story I’ve either ever read or saw a movie of. The story is set off the coast of Australia, along a chain of small islands. Joe, our protagonist, whose perspective half the story is told from, is earthy, a tradesman, skilled in matters of the world, and his very manly take on things gives a male reader an anchor in this story. I also found his adventuresome spirit both fun and a bit reminiscent of the Dirk Pitt character in those Clive Cussler tales I love so; that is to say, where he goes, danger and intrigue follow in closer order. But he has a lot of the same wholesomeness and sheer likability of a good action-adventure hero. He was easy to project myself into, moreover, not being some larger than life figure, but a regular guy just trying to get along in the world.
Stir in the exotic backdrops… I can still taste the saltwater in my mouth, and feel the heat of the Australian sun on my back, and my skin is bronzing as I type this. The seaside community that serves as the context for the story, the bawdy sailors and fishermen, and their crude, sometimes raunchy culture of ill-manners and total lack of refinement worn as a badge of honor, right up there with all their other forms of debasement, is as colorful a backdrop today as it was in Robert Louis Stevenson’s time, and recalls similar picaresque characters from another era. No surprise, little has changed with this group short of the outfits.
The other half of the story, told from the perspective of the mermaids themselves, adds both depth and humor to the tale, as the tribe of mermaids, less seasoned than our heroine in dealing with humans, are tasked with chores that leave them both flummoxed by and cringing at the unappetizing nature of humans on land and what they do to one another. From their vantage point we get a lesson in the clashing of cultures, a theme which is as contemporary as any I can think of. But even more to the point, the B-story in this tale, which is fascinating to follow, tracks the mermaid’s relentless desire to learn more about humans in order to save the planet and save us from ourselves. To their chagrin they find there is little in the popular media regarding the devastation of the oceans, or at least little that is understood about the deep underlying patterns connecting the biosphere’s fragile ecosystems, which the mermaids understand so well. And so the series pushes towards a better coordination of mermaid society and human society, both working towards saving the world in ways that may not be possible without the two factions pulling together. Needless to say by the time we’re through with book one, we’re a long way from any such budding partnership, which I found quite the baited hook in itself for reading on. What’s more, the romance that drives this story between the two leads that we’ve come to so enjoy can only live to see another day in the face of hurdles that for now seem rather insurmountable.
I highly recommend this franchise, and I myself am itching to read book two.
Stir in the exotic backdrops… I can still taste the saltwater in my mouth, and feel the heat of the Australian sun on my back, and my skin is bronzing as I type this. The seaside community that serves as the context for the story, the bawdy sailors and fishermen, and their crude, sometimes raunchy culture of ill-manners and total lack of refinement worn as a badge of honor, right up there with all their other forms of debasement, is as colorful a backdrop today as it was in Robert Louis Stevenson’s time, and recalls similar picaresque characters from another era. No surprise, little has changed with this group short of the outfits.
The other half of the story, told from the perspective of the mermaids themselves, adds both depth and humor to the tale, as the tribe of mermaids, less seasoned than our heroine in dealing with humans, are tasked with chores that leave them both flummoxed by and cringing at the unappetizing nature of humans on land and what they do to one another. From their vantage point we get a lesson in the clashing of cultures, a theme which is as contemporary as any I can think of. But even more to the point, the B-story in this tale, which is fascinating to follow, tracks the mermaid’s relentless desire to learn more about humans in order to save the planet and save us from ourselves. To their chagrin they find there is little in the popular media regarding the devastation of the oceans, or at least little that is understood about the deep underlying patterns connecting the biosphere’s fragile ecosystems, which the mermaids understand so well. And so the series pushes towards a better coordination of mermaid society and human society, both working towards saving the world in ways that may not be possible without the two factions pulling together. Needless to say by the time we’re through with book one, we’re a long way from any such budding partnership, which I found quite the baited hook in itself for reading on. What’s more, the romance that drives this story between the two leads that we’ve come to so enjoy can only live to see another day in the face of hurdles that for now seem rather insurmountable.
I highly recommend this franchise, and I myself am itching to read book two.
July 22, 2013
This review is by Chicklit Pad
...No fairy-tale in the making here. Just mermaids.
I keep going on and on about not being a fan of fantasy to pick up fantasy. So far I have reviewed two fantasy books on this blog and I loved them. I decided to let my friend, Fran, who is a die-hard fan of books that are not created out of unrealistic worlds. And this is what she has to say. Behold she is a girl of very few words. The 'good' or 'not good' kinda reviewer. The very one you wouldn't want to review your book.
Fran says: Good. (See I told you)
(But she goes on)....
It's not your bull book about mermaids and creatures with long tails and boobs that sit flat on their chests (probably due to lots of strenuous swimming)
Mermaids are to mate with humans-strong male humans and propagate (warning you, biology was her major).
Vanessa holds a torch to the Island for taking away her lover. Fire torch, I mean.Vannessa is the mermaid who saves Joe's life at sea. Because he can't swim. I am wondering why a guy in his late twenties can't swim. Where are the days when swimming was just flapping your arms about and beating the water with your legs. Summoned by her elders to gather information on the changes in the sea floor posing a threat to the mermaids (because changes in the sea floor meant humans were going extinct and since the relationship between the two was more or less parasitic since they depended on humans for procreation, eventually they would also go extinct), and it's no coincidence she finds Joe. And sleeps with him. Sex that gets you asking yourself: Who knew mermaids could have multiple orgasms? Does the transition from caudal fin to tail mean there's now a vagina? (Ooh! Going too far with Biology. Typical pragmatic behavior!)
Joe is a handy man. Goodlooking and, yes, he's probably the guy you would call to fix your leak. But one off point: he lives with his parents. Failure to launch kinda guy? No. Because he is looking to buy his own house. Too convenient Vanessa is a mermaid. (Goes to prove great sex doesn't matter the habitat).
But Joe doesn't know Nessa is, uh, not human.
I love Maria, Berlinda and Skipper. Maria is the confused daughter of Nessa. Skipper is Joe's too-friendly-for-a-boss' boss. Berlinda was the Ice Queen. This Berlinda puts the fun in mean. (Now that's what I call Revenge of the MERmaids).
There is never a dull moment.
I honestly can't wait to see the next title Ocean Infiltration. Very disappointing Demelza didn't attach an except.
Very gripping. Highly entertaining and fascinating.
And as though that isn't reason enough to pick it, the book has the ending of a real (TV) series: An OMG moment that would leave you wanting more. Not H2O kinda series. Like Gossip Girl with mermaids.
Will recommend for anyone who has the misconception that mermaids have been so last season since twilight. (True in the beauty world where no one wants a tan because of frigging twilight)
Look us up at: http://chicklitpad.blogspot.com
Chicklit Pad
Reviewing all Chick-lit, Romance and Women's fiction
...No fairy-tale in the making here. Just mermaids.
I keep going on and on about not being a fan of fantasy to pick up fantasy. So far I have reviewed two fantasy books on this blog and I loved them. I decided to let my friend, Fran, who is a die-hard fan of books that are not created out of unrealistic worlds. And this is what she has to say. Behold she is a girl of very few words. The 'good' or 'not good' kinda reviewer. The very one you wouldn't want to review your book.
Fran says: Good. (See I told you)
(But she goes on)....
It's not your bull book about mermaids and creatures with long tails and boobs that sit flat on their chests (probably due to lots of strenuous swimming)
Mermaids are to mate with humans-strong male humans and propagate (warning you, biology was her major).
Vanessa holds a torch to the Island for taking away her lover. Fire torch, I mean.Vannessa is the mermaid who saves Joe's life at sea. Because he can't swim. I am wondering why a guy in his late twenties can't swim. Where are the days when swimming was just flapping your arms about and beating the water with your legs. Summoned by her elders to gather information on the changes in the sea floor posing a threat to the mermaids (because changes in the sea floor meant humans were going extinct and since the relationship between the two was more or less parasitic since they depended on humans for procreation, eventually they would also go extinct), and it's no coincidence she finds Joe. And sleeps with him. Sex that gets you asking yourself: Who knew mermaids could have multiple orgasms? Does the transition from caudal fin to tail mean there's now a vagina? (Ooh! Going too far with Biology. Typical pragmatic behavior!)
Joe is a handy man. Goodlooking and, yes, he's probably the guy you would call to fix your leak. But one off point: he lives with his parents. Failure to launch kinda guy? No. Because he is looking to buy his own house. Too convenient Vanessa is a mermaid. (Goes to prove great sex doesn't matter the habitat).
But Joe doesn't know Nessa is, uh, not human.
I love Maria, Berlinda and Skipper. Maria is the confused daughter of Nessa. Skipper is Joe's too-friendly-for-a-boss' boss. Berlinda was the Ice Queen. This Berlinda puts the fun in mean. (Now that's what I call Revenge of the MERmaids).
There is never a dull moment.
I honestly can't wait to see the next title Ocean Infiltration. Very disappointing Demelza didn't attach an except.
Very gripping. Highly entertaining and fascinating.
And as though that isn't reason enough to pick it, the book has the ending of a real (TV) series: An OMG moment that would leave you wanting more. Not H2O kinda series. Like Gossip Girl with mermaids.
Will recommend for anyone who has the misconception that mermaids have been so last season since twilight. (True in the beauty world where no one wants a tan because of frigging twilight)
Look us up at: http://chicklitpad.blogspot.com
Chicklit Pad
Reviewing all Chick-lit, Romance and Women's fiction
February 12, 2014
I like how the story is told from several points of view, particularly Sirena’s and Joe’s. I’m a huge fan of character driven stories and the author immediately hooked me with her well written thoughts and dialogue with the two main ones, Joe and Vanessa (Sirena). I got to know them well and the glimpses into their thoughts helped me make a connection, get to know their ins and outs and why they acted the way the did.
I was provided with necessary background and a history of the sirens, which I enjoyed. Sirens are often presented as water nymphs, tempting with their songs and then killing hapless sailors and fishermen. It’s nice to see them portrayed as having human qualities, a heart, as such.
Joe’s a reluctant lobster fisherman and Vanessa, well, she’s a siren. And she’s on a mission. All of the sirens are. Something is wrong in their home under the waves. With the ocean. And the sirens have split off into groups, posing as humans to gather information. Information important for their survival and the ocean. But what they are must not be discovered.
Of course, Joe and Vanessa meet and their attraction ignites. They share a liking for beer and each others body parts.
While there are sex scenes, they are light and more in fun than graphic.
Joe is sexy in his down-under humor and laid back way of living. A hard worker and intelligent, he’s also lacking. Lacking in the love department. He may think he likes a casual, love em and leave em relationship, but that may go by the wayside after he encounters Vanessa (Serina).
Vanessa, on the other hand, is a siren, and as such, she’s beautiful, a temptress to look at, and knows how to use her wiles. She may live most of her life under the ocean, missing out on the advances of technology taking place on land, but she’s a quick study, naturally curious, and finds herself liking a lot of human things, such as ice cream, beer, and Joe.
It was easy to switch from Joe’s perspective to Vanessa’s. The author did an excellent job giving Joe his voice. He felt all male and I wondered if she’d interviewed a few to get that psyche down so well.
The world the author built was captivating and rich, from how the siren’s switched to human form, to their intricate language, and to the ocean’s peril, which would affect all life on the planet. An environmental message is delivered in a fascinating, humorous romance.
Down under snark, an impossible romance, and our ocean’s deep mysteries. All comes together for a romping, intriguing story that keeps you laughing and thinking. I’m curious what comes next in this series.
I received a copy for my honest and unbiased review.
I was provided with necessary background and a history of the sirens, which I enjoyed. Sirens are often presented as water nymphs, tempting with their songs and then killing hapless sailors and fishermen. It’s nice to see them portrayed as having human qualities, a heart, as such.
Joe’s a reluctant lobster fisherman and Vanessa, well, she’s a siren. And she’s on a mission. All of the sirens are. Something is wrong in their home under the waves. With the ocean. And the sirens have split off into groups, posing as humans to gather information. Information important for their survival and the ocean. But what they are must not be discovered.
Of course, Joe and Vanessa meet and their attraction ignites. They share a liking for beer and each others body parts.
While there are sex scenes, they are light and more in fun than graphic.
Joe is sexy in his down-under humor and laid back way of living. A hard worker and intelligent, he’s also lacking. Lacking in the love department. He may think he likes a casual, love em and leave em relationship, but that may go by the wayside after he encounters Vanessa (Serina).
Vanessa, on the other hand, is a siren, and as such, she’s beautiful, a temptress to look at, and knows how to use her wiles. She may live most of her life under the ocean, missing out on the advances of technology taking place on land, but she’s a quick study, naturally curious, and finds herself liking a lot of human things, such as ice cream, beer, and Joe.
It was easy to switch from Joe’s perspective to Vanessa’s. The author did an excellent job giving Joe his voice. He felt all male and I wondered if she’d interviewed a few to get that psyche down so well.
The world the author built was captivating and rich, from how the siren’s switched to human form, to their intricate language, and to the ocean’s peril, which would affect all life on the planet. An environmental message is delivered in a fascinating, humorous romance.
Down under snark, an impossible romance, and our ocean’s deep mysteries. All comes together for a romping, intriguing story that keeps you laughing and thinking. I’m curious what comes next in this series.
I received a copy for my honest and unbiased review.
September 10, 2013
Three mermaids are on a mission to determine what is causing strange changes in the ocean. To do so, they must “live dry” among the human population. Humans have better equipment and scientific knowledge than the mer, making it necessary for Sirena and her two daughters to live as humans.
Joe is an average guy who decides to spend a few months as a fisherman to avoid the hot, dirty mining job he had previously. With a lot of luck, he ends up living right next door to the three beautiful mermaids. He also finds plenty of extra work to fund his dream of buying a home.
This story shifts in perspectives, which gave me the opportunity to experience life through each main character’s eyes. I especially enjoyed Belinda’s trips to the store. Her reasoning for purchasing certain items seemed almost alien, accentuating the difference between her world and mine. Her narrative was rather amusing to me and brought just enough comic relief to still be appropriate for this story. She remains level-headed throughout the story and is a very memorable character.
Despite being warned to stay away from Sirena (who goes by the human name Vanessa), Joe can’t stop himself from being preoccupied with her physical features. The two begin a physical relationship during a weekend excursion that will last until each has to return to their homes. Joe seems to be little more than a piece of meat to Sirena, who enjoys the company of human men unlike most other mermaids.
My only regret is the lack of mermen in this story. Mermaids depend on human males to reproduce, leaving female readers without any eye candy. There is vivid description through Joe’s eyes of Sirena’s beautiful body, but we get little of Joe’s physique other than knowing he has a nice behind. Mermen certainly weren’t needed for this plot, but they would definitely have been a welcome addition.
As a lover of the sea I was fascinated by the mermaids and their world. They have a great love for the ocean and the creatures around them. They also seem to care very much about humans and are willing to save them from harm when they can. It is a nice change of pace to have a mermaid romance instead of the massive quantities of vampire romances available today. This is an imaginative and highly enjoyable story.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Joe is an average guy who decides to spend a few months as a fisherman to avoid the hot, dirty mining job he had previously. With a lot of luck, he ends up living right next door to the three beautiful mermaids. He also finds plenty of extra work to fund his dream of buying a home.
This story shifts in perspectives, which gave me the opportunity to experience life through each main character’s eyes. I especially enjoyed Belinda’s trips to the store. Her reasoning for purchasing certain items seemed almost alien, accentuating the difference between her world and mine. Her narrative was rather amusing to me and brought just enough comic relief to still be appropriate for this story. She remains level-headed throughout the story and is a very memorable character.
Despite being warned to stay away from Sirena (who goes by the human name Vanessa), Joe can’t stop himself from being preoccupied with her physical features. The two begin a physical relationship during a weekend excursion that will last until each has to return to their homes. Joe seems to be little more than a piece of meat to Sirena, who enjoys the company of human men unlike most other mermaids.
My only regret is the lack of mermen in this story. Mermaids depend on human males to reproduce, leaving female readers without any eye candy. There is vivid description through Joe’s eyes of Sirena’s beautiful body, but we get little of Joe’s physique other than knowing he has a nice behind. Mermen certainly weren’t needed for this plot, but they would definitely have been a welcome addition.
As a lover of the sea I was fascinated by the mermaids and their world. They have a great love for the ocean and the creatures around them. They also seem to care very much about humans and are willing to save them from harm when they can. It is a nice change of pace to have a mermaid romance instead of the massive quantities of vampire romances available today. This is an imaginative and highly enjoyable story.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2014
I received a free copy of the book from the author for my honest opinion.
Joe works in a mining camp as an electrician and is about to go on vacation for a couple of months. All he wants is to spend his holidays fishing. A friend he works with at the mining camp, Dean says he knows a guy with a boat that he can get Joe on off the coast of Australia. There is only one problem Joe will be working as a deck hand and not fishing for fun or when he wants. But hey Joe is ok with getting to fish and getting paid at the same time. Joe is trying to save enough money to buy a house of his own because he is still living with his parents. On his way over to the island on a plane he is worried about who he is going to be living beside. He is afraid that he is going to be living next door to a grumpy old man or someone who wants to stay up all night partying.
But Joe is in for a wonderful suprise as to whom is neighbors are. His neighbors are three very beautiful women. Joe becomes very enamored with one of the women, Vanessa. He has been warned by his boss and some of the other guys that he would probably be better off by staying away from the women. But they are very wrong when it comes to Vanessa. Joe and Vanessa hit it off real quick like upon their first meeting and when they do the sparks start flying. Vanessa's two daughters especially Belinda does not like the idea or maybe she just doesn't understand why she wants to be with a human for the pleasure and gives her a hard time about it. But Vanessa puts her in her place real quick like and lets her know who the boss is.
When I read the summary of Ocean's Gift and found that they were going to be working off the coast of Australia I just had to read it as I have always wanted to visit Australia. I love their accent. I love how they talk like saying mate instead of friend. I loved all the characters even Belinda and her fiery ways. I think that something or someone is the reason behind the way that she acts towards and what she believes about humans. Do you like reading about mermaids? Hopefully you do but weather you do or not doesn't matter because Ocean's Gift is a great read for any mermaid, romantic or paranormal fan.
Joe works in a mining camp as an electrician and is about to go on vacation for a couple of months. All he wants is to spend his holidays fishing. A friend he works with at the mining camp, Dean says he knows a guy with a boat that he can get Joe on off the coast of Australia. There is only one problem Joe will be working as a deck hand and not fishing for fun or when he wants. But hey Joe is ok with getting to fish and getting paid at the same time. Joe is trying to save enough money to buy a house of his own because he is still living with his parents. On his way over to the island on a plane he is worried about who he is going to be living beside. He is afraid that he is going to be living next door to a grumpy old man or someone who wants to stay up all night partying.
But Joe is in for a wonderful suprise as to whom is neighbors are. His neighbors are three very beautiful women. Joe becomes very enamored with one of the women, Vanessa. He has been warned by his boss and some of the other guys that he would probably be better off by staying away from the women. But they are very wrong when it comes to Vanessa. Joe and Vanessa hit it off real quick like upon their first meeting and when they do the sparks start flying. Vanessa's two daughters especially Belinda does not like the idea or maybe she just doesn't understand why she wants to be with a human for the pleasure and gives her a hard time about it. But Vanessa puts her in her place real quick like and lets her know who the boss is.
When I read the summary of Ocean's Gift and found that they were going to be working off the coast of Australia I just had to read it as I have always wanted to visit Australia. I love their accent. I love how they talk like saying mate instead of friend. I loved all the characters even Belinda and her fiery ways. I think that something or someone is the reason behind the way that she acts towards and what she believes about humans. Do you like reading about mermaids? Hopefully you do but weather you do or not doesn't matter because Ocean's Gift is a great read for any mermaid, romantic or paranormal fan.
February 28, 2014
Never having read a book that has mermaids as main characters, and being a huge fan of all things “ocean”, I was really primed for a great paranormal—romance—thriller story. Trust me; these days those are not mutually exclusive terms. Ms Carlton certainly delivered the romance and paranormal, but for me, not so much the thriller.
“Ocean’s Gift” was a fun and easy read. The characters were all very well developed and the story, told primarily from two POV’s—Joe and Belinda, was as expected from a talented writer such as Ms. Carlton; that is, exceptionally well done. I would rate the love scenes between Joe and Vanessa PG, but I can imagine that others will find them solidly at the “R” rating level. I was looking forward to following to conclusion the premise that was established early in the book. The mermaids, worried about global warming and other environmental changes that could kill off mankind wanted to gain information, that only human technology could provide, in order to help save the world and humankind. Doing so would also save themselves, as the mermaids required human males for the reproduction of their own kind. The story, however, gets so caught up in the love affair of Joe and Vanessa that the main plot line becomes mostly blurred and lost in the bedroom (several times), the boat and the airfield.
Though I missed a clearly defined conclusion to the premise and found some of the book to be redundant; it’s obvious that Ms Carlton knows the seas. Those parts of the story that talk about swimming with dolphins, fighting sharks, or the taste, smell and beauty of the oceans are alone well worth the read. Add to that the verisimilitude of the PG sex along with the mermaids and their history, culture and love of nature, and I’ve got more than enough great reasons to recommend this book. And, while I’m on the subject of mermaids, I’ll gladly add that the author has developed a paranormal creature that is beautiful, fascinating and little bit scary. The mermaids beat vampires and werewolves hands down. In other words… perfect!
“Ocean’s Gift” was a fun and easy read. The characters were all very well developed and the story, told primarily from two POV’s—Joe and Belinda, was as expected from a talented writer such as Ms. Carlton; that is, exceptionally well done. I would rate the love scenes between Joe and Vanessa PG, but I can imagine that others will find them solidly at the “R” rating level. I was looking forward to following to conclusion the premise that was established early in the book. The mermaids, worried about global warming and other environmental changes that could kill off mankind wanted to gain information, that only human technology could provide, in order to help save the world and humankind. Doing so would also save themselves, as the mermaids required human males for the reproduction of their own kind. The story, however, gets so caught up in the love affair of Joe and Vanessa that the main plot line becomes mostly blurred and lost in the bedroom (several times), the boat and the airfield.
Though I missed a clearly defined conclusion to the premise and found some of the book to be redundant; it’s obvious that Ms Carlton knows the seas. Those parts of the story that talk about swimming with dolphins, fighting sharks, or the taste, smell and beauty of the oceans are alone well worth the read. Add to that the verisimilitude of the PG sex along with the mermaids and their history, culture and love of nature, and I’ve got more than enough great reasons to recommend this book. And, while I’m on the subject of mermaids, I’ll gladly add that the author has developed a paranormal creature that is beautiful, fascinating and little bit scary. The mermaids beat vampires and werewolves hands down. In other words… perfect!
September 24, 2013
Full review available here on AAR - http://likesbooks.com/cgi-bin/bookRev...
Mermaids seem to be the next big thing, after vampires, werewolves, and the recent zombie trend. I’m not sure why - apparently the Animal Planet documentary (or docufiction or mockumentary, depending on who you are talking to) Mermaids: The Body Found had over 10 million views when it first aired. There has also been a stream of mermaid young adult novels, some evil merpeople in a couple of films and books, and now mermaid romance.
Sirena is a mermaid, and she has been sent off to do her duty - breed with a human male. Mermaids are, as the name implies, all female, and the only way to keep their race continuing is to interbreed with humans. However, when she is unable to save her chosen mate from the sea after their time together, Sirena declares she will not do her duty, she will instead do as she pleases. She is sixteen years old.
Fast-forward about 90 years, and there is something going on in the oceans, specifically on the ocean floor. Sirena, now an Elder with two children and grandchildren, has been tasked to find out what the humans know about this potential disaster. Going with her will be her daughters, Maria and Apalala. They will be posing as fishers named Vanessa, Maria and Belinda, working off the coast of Australia, near Perth, using the opportunity to speak with other fishers, governmental officials, scientists, and, of course, the internet.
Joe Fisher is on his vacation, which is why he is spending the two months before he goes back to setting up electricity in mining camps fishing for rock lobsters as a deckhand. Joe’s been trying to save money to buy a house (and officially move out of his parents), so jumps at the opportunity. And then is ecstatic when his neighbor on the island is the drop-dead gorgeous Vanessa. Befriending her with his electrician skills and wagers involving beer, Joe finds himself falling for her.
Mermaids seem to be the next big thing, after vampires, werewolves, and the recent zombie trend. I’m not sure why - apparently the Animal Planet documentary (or docufiction or mockumentary, depending on who you are talking to) Mermaids: The Body Found had over 10 million views when it first aired. There has also been a stream of mermaid young adult novels, some evil merpeople in a couple of films and books, and now mermaid romance.
Sirena is a mermaid, and she has been sent off to do her duty - breed with a human male. Mermaids are, as the name implies, all female, and the only way to keep their race continuing is to interbreed with humans. However, when she is unable to save her chosen mate from the sea after their time together, Sirena declares she will not do her duty, she will instead do as she pleases. She is sixteen years old.
Fast-forward about 90 years, and there is something going on in the oceans, specifically on the ocean floor. Sirena, now an Elder with two children and grandchildren, has been tasked to find out what the humans know about this potential disaster. Going with her will be her daughters, Maria and Apalala. They will be posing as fishers named Vanessa, Maria and Belinda, working off the coast of Australia, near Perth, using the opportunity to speak with other fishers, governmental officials, scientists, and, of course, the internet.
Joe Fisher is on his vacation, which is why he is spending the two months before he goes back to setting up electricity in mining camps fishing for rock lobsters as a deckhand. Joe’s been trying to save money to buy a house (and officially move out of his parents), so jumps at the opportunity. And then is ecstatic when his neighbor on the island is the drop-dead gorgeous Vanessa. Befriending her with his electrician skills and wagers involving beer, Joe finds himself falling for her.
September 20, 2013
Oceans Gift is a unique and touching story. Although the concept of mermaids has been done, I have never come across a story line that was done in quite this way. I found it to be enjoying and thought provoking all at once.
The three "mermaids" travelled to land to integrate with humans to learn more about the environment from the perspective of people. The underlying message is how as a human race, we are very unaware of how the Earth is changing and affecting life above and below water. As nice as an environmental message is and is necessary in today's wasteful society, I especially enjoyed the romance that came out of this mermaid visit to the human race.
This book left me wanting more and that speaks for itself. The characters, although not especially love able, were well developed. I felt that if the mermaids were a little more relatable, I would have been able to give it 4 stars but they were almost robotic in some ways. I am sure this is what the author was going for but something about it made them not as likeable. Overall, a good read and I am excited to read book two!
Sent from my iPad
The three "mermaids" travelled to land to integrate with humans to learn more about the environment from the perspective of people. The underlying message is how as a human race, we are very unaware of how the Earth is changing and affecting life above and below water. As nice as an environmental message is and is necessary in today's wasteful society, I especially enjoyed the romance that came out of this mermaid visit to the human race.
This book left me wanting more and that speaks for itself. The characters, although not especially love able, were well developed. I felt that if the mermaids were a little more relatable, I would have been able to give it 4 stars but they were almost robotic in some ways. I am sure this is what the author was going for but something about it made them not as likeable. Overall, a good read and I am excited to read book two!
Sent from my iPad
November 23, 2013
Being a reader of nonfiction normally, I found Ocean's Gift to be an enjoyable read. The settings were rendered in such a manner that I was able to picture it. Being from the US I wasn't familiar with the area but found the descriptions of the environment helpful. The plot and characters, especially in terms of the world of mermaids the author created, were highly imaginative and quite interesting. The human characters were believable and one could relate to their emotions and person. The mermaids were interesting, their differences from humans quite stark, and their interactions with the human world fascinating in terms of perspective. The author's use of varying first-person perspectives in the differing chapters allowed the reader to relate to each of the characters, and she weaves the story together well in this unique format. The plot flowed nicely, with exciting foreshadowing and hints. It kept the pages turning. All in all, an enjoyable read and an imaginative, creative tale sure to please fans of modern fantasies.
September 8, 2013
An Interesting Mermaid Fantasy
Ocean's Gift is a well written book and although not a genre I would normally read I found the characters interesting enough that I finished the book.
The book has no real action and the inherent threat behind the storyline although mentioned is really only a vehicle to get the heroine in the right place at the right time. Hopefully this sense of menace will, and perhaps the actions of Vanessa's daughter will, cause the future books in this series to have a greater sense of suspense.
The book is well written with some quite quirky asides that are very humerous in an understated and quite dry fashion.
The only reason that I haven't given the book five stars is that it focuses slightly too graphically, for my tastes I admit, on bedroom gymnastics and if you are not voyeuristic by nature these sections can get tedious. On the other hand Demelza Carlton's writing and descriptive ability mean that it definitely deserves its four stars.
Ocean's Gift is a well written book and although not a genre I would normally read I found the characters interesting enough that I finished the book.
The book has no real action and the inherent threat behind the storyline although mentioned is really only a vehicle to get the heroine in the right place at the right time. Hopefully this sense of menace will, and perhaps the actions of Vanessa's daughter will, cause the future books in this series to have a greater sense of suspense.
The book is well written with some quite quirky asides that are very humerous in an understated and quite dry fashion.
The only reason that I haven't given the book five stars is that it focuses slightly too graphically, for my tastes I admit, on bedroom gymnastics and if you are not voyeuristic by nature these sections can get tedious. On the other hand Demelza Carlton's writing and descriptive ability mean that it definitely deserves its four stars.
February 20, 2014
I will admit, Ocean’s Gift isn’t my usual kind of read, as people who know me will tell you, but I loved the synopsis and I had heard some really good things about Demelza’s writing so I decided to have a read and see what it was all about.
Well….
I started and before I knew it I was taken into a whole new fantasy story about mermaids, the ocean and humans and I loved it.
I really liked Sirena, Demelza’s description of her was beautiful, both as a woman and as a siren.
Now Joe! He is a nice guy, he’s funny and the type of lad your mum and dad would like!
Ocean’s Gift was really very well written, and Demelza, takes the reader to where she wants you to be without leaving the comfort of your armchair. Definitely worth the read, even if it isn’t your type of book.
Would I recommend Ocean’s Gift? Oh definitely and can’t wait to read the other two in the series.
Well….
I started and before I knew it I was taken into a whole new fantasy story about mermaids, the ocean and humans and I loved it.
I really liked Sirena, Demelza’s description of her was beautiful, both as a woman and as a siren.
Now Joe! He is a nice guy, he’s funny and the type of lad your mum and dad would like!
Ocean’s Gift was really very well written, and Demelza, takes the reader to where she wants you to be without leaving the comfort of your armchair. Definitely worth the read, even if it isn’t your type of book.
Would I recommend Ocean’s Gift? Oh definitely and can’t wait to read the other two in the series.
July 23, 2016
I was given a copy of Ocean's Gift by Demelza Carlton in exchange for an honest review. First I have to say that the cover is absolutely beautiful. That alone made me want to read the story. Even though they say don't judge a book by the cover. The story was very well written and sucks you right in. I have never read any of Ms.Carlton's books but I look forward to reading the rest of the series. I don't recall ever reading a story about Mermaids. Seen movies but never read about them. When a story has the characters speaking it really draws me in and helps me connect with them. Makes you feel as if your one of them. This book has three different characters telling their POV. Fast read, chapters very short, I enjoy the plot and the characters. I really can't wait to read book two and review that as well. Thank you.
July 27, 2013
Ocean’s Gift
By Demelza Carlton
Reviewed b y Jedi Christy
As a sailor’s daughter not can hit closer to my heart than a story with sirens or mermaids. In book I get both, so how can I not love it. I also am a sucker for author who hints at things but doesn’t spell them out in carryon so to speak which she does in spades. I can say I find myself wanting to know more about each of the character, but love the interaction between the main two. The way she describes the location makes me what to go there for a scuba trip or two as well. Thank You Demelza Carlton for giving me the chances to reviews you book and I am looking forward to the next one. I give it a 4 star rating.
Jedi Christy
By Demelza Carlton
Reviewed b y Jedi Christy
As a sailor’s daughter not can hit closer to my heart than a story with sirens or mermaids. In book I get both, so how can I not love it. I also am a sucker for author who hints at things but doesn’t spell them out in carryon so to speak which she does in spades. I can say I find myself wanting to know more about each of the character, but love the interaction between the main two. The way she describes the location makes me what to go there for a scuba trip or two as well. Thank You Demelza Carlton for giving me the chances to reviews you book and I am looking forward to the next one. I give it a 4 star rating.
Jedi Christy
September 10, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Did not finish
The premise of this story had so much potential, however the story itself is slow. I forced myself to read half of this story before giving up and it was slow and painful.
Joe, a sparky or electrician, becomes a deckhand during his off time. He meets Vanessa who happens to be a mermaid. Sounds great. But the reality is, we get way too much information and not enough story. I believe their is a love story here, but so far all it's been is Joe ogling Vanessa.
Also there is a third POV from Belinda, another mermaid, that doesn't seem to have anything to do with the rest of the story.
I just couldn't force myself to read anymore.
Did not finish
The premise of this story had so much potential, however the story itself is slow. I forced myself to read half of this story before giving up and it was slow and painful.
Joe, a sparky or electrician, becomes a deckhand during his off time. He meets Vanessa who happens to be a mermaid. Sounds great. But the reality is, we get way too much information and not enough story. I believe their is a love story here, but so far all it's been is Joe ogling Vanessa.
Also there is a third POV from Belinda, another mermaid, that doesn't seem to have anything to do with the rest of the story.
I just couldn't force myself to read anymore.
April 22, 2014
Growing up, The Little Mermaid was one of my favorite Disney movies and it’s safe to say that Ocean’s Gift brought back some childhood memories for me. I kinda forgot how fascinated I was with mermaids so thank you for giving me a part of my youth back with this wonderful story that kept me engrossed ‘til the very last page. I loved the characters, some more than others but it was great to see how they developed throughout the book. Sirena (Vanessa) and Joe’s love is true, funny and, well, it has every ingredient to make it a great love story and I for one can’t wait to read part two ''Ocean’s Infiltrator'' and I would recommend this book to everyone who loves to read fascinating stories!!!
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