This epic clash of sand and sea will pit brother against brother-and there can only be one winner
In two days, the race for the Sea Court throne will be over-but all the rules have changed. The sea witch, Nieve, has kidnapped Layla and is raising an army of mutant sea creatures to overthrow the crown. Kurt, the one person Tristan could depend on in the battle for the Sea King's throne, has betrayed him. Now Kurt wants the throne for himself. Tristan has the Scepter of the Earth, but it's not enough. He'll have to travel to the mysterious, lost Isle of Tears and unleash the magic that first created the king's powerful scepter. It's a brutal race to the finish, and there can only be one winner.
Zoraida Córdova is the author of many fantasy novels for kids and teens, including the award-winning Brooklyn Brujas series, Incendiary, and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge: A Crash of Fate. Her short fiction has appeared in the New York Times bestselling anthology Star Wars: From a Certain Point of View, Star Wars The Clone Wars: Stories of Light and Dark, Come on In: 15 Stories About Immigration and Finding Home, and Toil & Trouble: 15 Tales of Women and Witchcraft. She is the co-editor of the bestselling anthology Vampires Never Get Old. Her debut middle grade novel is The Way to Rio Luna. She is the co-host of the podcast Deadline City with Dhonielle Clayton. Zoraida was born in Ecuador and raised in Queens, New York. When she isn’t working on her next novel, she’s planning a new adventure.
NOTE: Direct messages on this account may not be seen. Send her an email at zoraidabooks@gmail.com
Tristan Hart has been through a lot since he learned that he was a merman and a candidate for the throne. But now his girlfriend Layla has been kidnapped and he's been betrayed by two of his closest allies. Shortly after THE VAST AND BRUTAL SEA begins, things get even worse for Tristan and his companions. But he's still determined to defeat his aunt Nieve, save the sea, and keep his promises.
I love this trilogy so very much. I think it is the best of the many mermaid books and series that have come out in the last several years. Much of that rests on Tristan's shoulders. He's come a long way from the shallow teen boy he was before the series began. He's humble, overmatched, and still determined to do his best by his people.
The diverse supporting cast (in nationality and sexuality) is terrific too, including the new additions to the cast. I'm sorry that the ongoing war means some of them must die. The Vicious Deep series might have a male protagonist, but it has never shied away from including a variety of well-rounded female characters. THE VAST AND BRUTAL SEA also fills out antagonist Nieve's painful past. She needs to be defeated, but one can understand how she came to make her choices.
THE VAST AND BRUTAL SEA is a stunning conclusion to a series that ranges through the wild ocean, abandoned magic isles, and Coney Island. It's also the story of choice for anyone who wants to see a melee involving vampires, giant turtles, merrows, and demigods. It is a final battle to be remembered. I am sad to part ways with these characters, but I look forward to whatever Zoraida Cordóva writes next.
I found this series over all rather tedious. It was ok for the most part, but not good enough to keep bringing me back. I got really impatient with it most of the time. I just wanted to find out how it would end and didnt really want to do all the work to get there.
I read two other books on the side during the time it took me to read this one. And I fell asleep on this book on numerous occasions. As I have said in my reviews for both The Vicious Deep and The Savage Blue, I liked Tristan, and I enjoyed most of the supporting characters, but I don't know if there were too many, or if I just didn't care about them enough, but I could never remember who was who. Who the hell is Kai? She was with Tristan for most of this book, but I have no idea who she is or when he met her. I just cannot remember.
I am glad with how things turned out for everyone. I dont know why, but for some reason I suspected the ending would go down something like it did. No tragic fates are hanging over anyone's heads. And I am glad that this series is over and I can move on.
ARC provided by NetGalley on behalf of Sourcebooks Fire, in exchange for an honest review.
I'm afraid I've done Ms. Córdova a great disservice. I didn't get the reviews written anytime soon after I finished this trilogy.
Many months later, I can't cite any specifics from the story but here's what I can say.
I've found that merpeople stories are a rarity. And not always good ones either. Which is probably why they're not as prevalent as other sub genres in YA urban fantasy.
This trilogy is rock solid. Great character development and a well developed story that is paced well over the three books.
Also, I was happy that the whole trilogy had been published by then as I blasted through all 3 books in one day.
When my TBR is in the thousands, it's a high compliment when I say that if I felt the need to read a good YA merpeople story, I'd be fine with re-reading this trilogy instead of taking a chance on a new book. Assuming I could find one, heh.
Highly recommended for all fans of YA urban fantasy.
If Dreams of Gods and Monsters suffered from too much thinking and not enough happening, The Vast and Brutal Sea has the opposite issue. While I'm fairly pleased with this resolution (the ending wasn't quite the ending I would've loved, but it works just fine) I did feel like there wasn't enough exploration of the more emotional aspects of the various climaxes, e.g. Tristan and Layla finally getting together, Kurt and Tristan's complicated and contentious relationship, Tristan actually reacting to the way his story turned out. While this series was a quick, easy read with likable characters and an interesting world, Córdova seems to rush it, making everything feel just I little off-kilter. I'm not sure if I can fault the author's craft, or it was the publisher at work, but yeah. Flawed but still really, really fun.
The story itself, the whole series included, is very entertaining. The main complaint I've had through the entire thing is the....well the pace I guess. I like fast paced books but this one just sort of ran you over with it. The characters just seem to sprint from one action to another. No real thought. No description. I guess maybe I just felt a lack of connection to the character and his choice of action. And that action was over in seconds anyway so what was the point of even trying to connect anyway.
This final book in the trilogy wasn't quite as strong as the first two. The first half is a bit slow and meandering, but it picks up toward the end and offers great closure for the series.
In the Vast and Brutal Sea, Tristan plunges head-on into a war against the sea witch Neeve. His girlfriend has been taken captive, two of his close friends betrayed him, and all three pieces of Poseidon's trident have been claimed by different sides. Tristan must gather allies, build an army, and come up with a plan if he is to defeat the sea witch at the height of her power.
This might be my favorite of the trilogy. There is SO much happening and so many characters and monsters. But overall this is just a wild fun action-packed book/trilogy.
Check out Scott Reads It for reviews, giveaways & more! The Vast And Brutal Sea is the 3rd and final book in the Vicious Deep Trilogy and is an excellent conclusion to the story of Tristan's adventures in the Sea Court. Cordova delivers just as many thrills and humorous moments in this novel and at the same time, she gives readers closure and a completely satisfying conclusion. I really enjoyed the time I spent with Tristan and his friends and it's upsetting to finally have to say goodbye.
Tristan is in the final legs of the tournament and every second, Nieve is getting closer to reaching her goal. The fate of the world could be resting in Tristan's hands, but with Kurt out of the picture and Layla captured, things aren't looking good.
I love the voice that Cordova created for Tristan because it feels so authentic to the point where she really captures what being a teenage guy is like. All of Tristan's thoughts and speeches don't feel like they're forced at all and they flow so naturally. I don't know how Cordova does it, but she really understands male teenagers and so, Tristan's voice comes across as extremely distinct and true.
I think my favorite part of this series has always has been the characters and the relationships they share. I love the complex bond that Tristan and Layla share because it's not strictly romantic and it's easy to see that these two are truly best friends. The banter between Tristan and Layla was so entertaining to read and I love their relationship so much that words can't describe it.
So many series have cartoonish villains who are one dimensional, but Nieve is incredibly despicable and multi-layered. Readers really learn Nieve's backstory and learn how she became the evil witch she is in this series. Readers will understand Nieve and her motives behind her desire to overthrowing the Sea Court; I have a feeling that some readers will even empathize with Nieve despite the fact that she's the antagonist.
The Vast And Brutal Sea is an exciting, fast-paced conclusion to one of the best paranormal series out there. Though I don't usually enjoy mermaid novels, there's something so addicting and engaging about the Vicious Deep novels. Cordova has cleverly reimagined mermen and mermaids by blending classic mythology and lore in a modern setting in the Vicious Deep series. I can't wait to see where Cordova takes readers next, but I'm game for anything she writes!
The trilogy is complete, and in the most epic way!
Tristan is at a loss. Betrayed by those he thought were closest to him and having very little to go on to continue his quest as a champion, he finds himself questioning himself over everything. But regardless of his self-doubt, he knows that he must try his best and continue on. This isn't about him, never was. He knows that he has a battle to get to soon, but how will he get to it, no one truly knows yet. Well, maybe an oracle or two might, but they're looking to gain something before they'll help... and it just feels like nothing is ever going to go right for the half-merman who thinks too much like a human to know what is best for the sea and its inhabitants.
As much as we see Tristan grow and mature, he never loses himself nor does he lose sight of his goals. Whenever something gets in his way, he looks for another. And even though this may be a battle he might lose, he knows that he'll do it while trying his best. He never lets his heart over power his mind, and vice versa. He is true to his word, even if his words are sarcastic and may be of the kind that the seafolk may not understand at times. And no matter what situation Tristan may find himself in - danger, pain, loss and more - his sense of humor, quick wit and thoughtfulness always shines through to guide him through to get him to the next level.
The action! So many battles to get through! Mystical creatures galore - the author does not hold back on the details and I was able to picture everything clearly in my mind. The mystical beauty of each and every character, even the ugly mean ones, were fabulous - I truly do wish to see this in film one day.
I have only one small gripe - I really wish that the author would have considered giving us a better glimpse into Tristan and his friends/families future. His parents were barely mentioned, and they had quite the surprise in book 2 that was barely mentioned in this part of the story. I am curious to know if the author may have something planned in the future for some of these characters - I can totally see a spin-off happening...
The perfect ending to an amazing and well-written trilogy! I cannot wait to see what Zoraida Cordova will give us next!!!
(I received an eARC from the publisher/tour host for my honest review. My thoughts are all my own.)
This series got better with each book, and I really enjoyed it. The characters matured and changed. It was kind of funny to see Tristan reference school starting back up again--with everything that happened, school just seemed surreal.
It ended as I hoped it would.
It almost felt like there could be more written later. The story was resolved, but the future is wide open.
Note: Some swearing, including f words. Implied sex.
In this thrilling and fast-paced conclusion to this trilogy, Tristan must find the rest of the scepter, get the girl back, and have a showdown with Nieve herself. Reeling from Kurt's betrayal and Layla's abduction, he must pull it together to finish what he started.These mermaids are not your Disney friends-there is heartbreak, war, and death. With an ending I didn't see coming, Cordova pulls everything together for a startling and strong plot resolution. This would make a great reading recommendation for teens who loved Percy Jackson and for library collections with a need for strong male POV characters.
*I received this book as an e-galley from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Tristan Hart is back and finally has a plan. After losing Layla, learning the truth about Kurt, and enduring Gwen's betrayal, Tristan sets out with few allies and many enemies. He begins his search for a way to defeat Nieve with a visit to the elusive River Clan. Tristan's smart mouth gets him in trouble as he comes face to face with an entire society that is not ready to accept him as the next King of the Sea. He must face monsters of all sorts if he is to release the only creatures that can help him win a war that he has only begun to understand.
I love reading books that are part of a trilogy. I love being able to see a story complete, for good or bad. In the case of of the Vicious Deep trilogy, I enjoyed the chaos that was Tristan Hart, but the story left me wanting more.
The characters themselves were great. I really appreciated the continuity of the characters and their personalities. While each character in the book had a great deal of growth and maturity, they each remained true to who they were at the beginning of the series, which can't be said about many other series. Tristan was a charismatic goofball who cared deeply about those around him from the start. Even though his thoughts and words were perhaps a bit immature and full of himself (I could have done with a few less moments where he reminded himself how popular and good looking he is), I still rooted for him. His good heart showed when he dealt with everyone from friend to foe. Layla stayed strong and independent. Marty stayed loyal and kind. Fredrick proved time and time again that he was intelligent, helpful, and caring. This kind of continuity was very comforting to me because all of their decisions made sense to me. I never questioned their motivations.
I had a hard time with the actual plot at times. It felt to me that each time I began to understand what was happening in a scene, the scene changed and the characters had moved on. The overall plot was excellent, but it was clunky. The transitions between plot points were rough and the was a bit too fast. I would have loved more time between Tristan's time with the River Clan and the final battle. I also felt that the flashbacks to Nieve's past were jarring. I know that it was important to see how she became the villain of the story, but the flashbacks every now and then made it harder for me to follow what was happening to Tristan and the crew.
Overall, I was happy with the ending. It wrapped up most plot lines and left me mostly satisfied. The only thing I wish I had more of was more of what happened to Tristan's mom and dad. As any good book should, it left me wanting to see more of a world in which we only got a glimpse.
The story ended the way I thought it would. I loved the character growth and the side characters. It made the story enjoyable. I'm not sure why I found this series so tedious. I loved the characters. I just wasn't super invested in them like I feel i should be. While the overall plot of this story was amazing, the transitions were clunky and not smooth. It really brought me out of the story and made it difficult to continue. I feel that it wasn't fully fleshed out and it was way too fast. There should have been time between Tristan's time at the River Clan and the final battle. I also had an issue with the flashbacks to Nieve's past. While I know it was necessary to see how she became the villian, it made it harder to follow the flow of the book. I think this was a pretty good series being told from a mermans perspective. It made it that much more interesting. Beautiful covers and overall great plot. Just wish it would have been a bit more concise.
This is just so much more of the same that I know it could have been a single book, or at least a duology. This just seems so dragged out, the fight and the war and the drama, that it was hard to stay focused and keep interested in because it felt slow-paced to me. There's so many scenes that seemed input for no reason.
BUT I think I miiiight try and come back to this series again for a reread when I'm not merfolk-ed out, because I really do like the premise of the book - a male protagonist instead of a female one. Maybe my dislike of it is just that I decided to binge a half-dozen mermaid books in a row and they're starting to blur together. Is that a thing?
Another book I'd like to rate 3.5 stars - the whole series, for that matter. This was a good end to the series, it tied everything together and was satisfying. I like the characters and the story and there's so much interesting to think about in these books. But I found it hard to track everything across the three novels. I found myself wanting both more detail (especially since there are so many characters and settings, all so different from one another) and for it to be tighter. I can see this working well as a graphic novel. In the end I stuck with the whole series because I feel there's material in there that will continue to work on me and I welcome that.
There were problems and it isn't the most intellectually stimulating read, but my God did I enjoy this series!! I laughed continuously and fell in love with the characters on every page. This is a series I would highly recommend for anyone looking for a fun engaging read. Do yourself a favor and pick it up!
Good. This was a solid 3 star series for me. I liked each about the same as the other two, nothing stood out as exceptional, but I also enjoyed myself enough to read the whole series. The final scene was a bit of a letdown for me.
I loved the first one, but these kind of went downhill as they progressed. In this book she writes it as though you haven't read the first two and spends a lot of time summarizing and recapping everything you have already read.
This story was a fabulous ending to the trilogy. I really loved watching it wrap up the way it did. The characters are delightful, the world building fabulous. Highly recommend reading The Vicious Deep if you like Little Mermaid retellings and handsome Latino boys.
Good conclusion to the serious! Pacing was decent. Still spots of confusion for me, but less than the other books. I think some more editing would have been helpful. Generally enjoyable trilogy though
A fun conclusion to an exciting merman trilogy! I was nervous about who would make it out of this book alive, but thrilled with the ending. There were some twists and turns along the way that kept me locked in the story!