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The Aquarathi #2
Oceanborn
The coronation is over.
But the battle has just begun.
Nerissa Marin has won her crown. But can she keep it? Already, her ties to the human realm are driving a wedge between Nerissa and her people. When word arrives that her part-human prince consort, Lo, has been poisoned, she makes the difficult choice to leave Waterfell and return landside. As the royal courts debate her decision, even more disturbing rumors surface: a plot is rising against her, led by someone she least expects.
On land, Nerissa learns another shocking truth: �Lo does not remember who she is. As her choice to try to save him threatens her hold on her crown, changing loyalties and uncertainty test her courage in ways she could never have imagined. Nerissa will have one last chance to prove herself as a queen …and save the undersea kingdom she loves.
But the battle has just begun.
Nerissa Marin has won her crown. But can she keep it? Already, her ties to the human realm are driving a wedge between Nerissa and her people. When word arrives that her part-human prince consort, Lo, has been poisoned, she makes the difficult choice to leave Waterfell and return landside. As the royal courts debate her decision, even more disturbing rumors surface: a plot is rising against her, led by someone she least expects.
On land, Nerissa learns another shocking truth: �Lo does not remember who she is. As her choice to try to save him threatens her hold on her crown, changing loyalties and uncertainty test her courage in ways she could never have imagined. Nerissa will have one last chance to prove herself as a queen …and save the undersea kingdom she loves.
384 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2014
8 people are currently reading
1259 people want to read
About the author
Amalie Howard
46 books3,275 followersAMALIE HOWARD is a USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author, most notably of The Beast of Beswick, “a smart, sexy, deliciously feminist romance,” and one of O-The Oprah Magazine’s Top 24 Best Historicals to Read. She is the co-author of the #1 bestsellers in regency romance and Scottish historical romance, My Rogue, My Ruin and What A Scot Wants, and has also penned several young adult novels, critically acclaimed by Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, VOYA, School Library Journal, and Booklist, including Waterfell, The Almost Girl, and Alpha Goddess, a Kid’s INDIE NEXT selection. Of Indo-Caribbean descent, she has written articles on multicultural fiction for The Portland Book Review and Ravishly magazine. She currently resides in Colorado with her husband and three children. Visit her at amaliehoward.com.
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June 12, 2015Loved the big fight scene at the end with Cano and the stuff going on with Riss's mom and the others? Wow! My favorite thing about these books is the transformation into the other forms. Especially the partial transformations.
September 24, 2014
I want to thank Harlequin Teen for sending me a copy of this book to read and give an honest review. Receiving this book for free has in no way influenced or changed my opinion or review.
Blurb from Goodreads:
The coronation is over.
But the battle has just begun.
Nerissa Marin has won her crown. But can she keep it? Already, her ties to the human realm are driving a wedge between Nerissa and her people. When word arrives that her part-human prince consort, Lo, has been poisoned, she makes the difficult choice to leave Waterfell and return landside. As the royal courts debate her decision, even more disturbing rumors surface: a plot is rising against her, led by someone she least expects.
On land, Nerissa learns another shocking truth: �Lo does not remember who she is. As her choice to try to save him threatens her hold on her crown, changing loyalties and uncertainty test her courage in ways she could never have imagined. Nerissa will have one last chance to prove herself as a queen …and save the undersea kingdom she loves.
**SPOILER ALERT** If you have not read the first book in this series, Waterfell, stop here! There may be spoilers associated with that book. You have been warned!
I have to start this review with letting you know that I'm a huge Amalie Howard fan. So, given a chance to read something she writes, you can bet I jump on it. When Waterfell was being published, I jumped on the opportunity to read and review it. And I was not disappointed in any way! I was expected a typical mermaid story, to be honest. I guess I didn't read the blurb closely, or I might not have read it at all considering I'm just a fan or the author in general. What I got was so much more! Not mermaids, but sea monsters, aliens, creatures that can transform themselves so they look like humans and live among our society almost seamlessly.
This cover is just amazing. It certainly matches the cover of the first book. What I love most about this cover is the colors and the way they pop off the page. And it's very simple in it's presentation.
This book picks up where the first book left off. Nerissa is in Waterfell, but there is much unrest there. And she has sent Lo off to live in the human world, thinking that would keep him safe. But no one is safe, anywhere. There is unrest in Waterfell, but there are people on land who want to hurt Narissa, and they'll do it by hurting those who mean the most to her. Imagine ruling an underwater world from the land. Not an easy feat for the newly crowned ruler of Waterfell who has many against her from the start!
I really love Narissa. If you read Seamonster, Speio talk a lot about how selfish Narissa is. But he slowly comes to realize her reasons for why she is this way. And this continues in Ocenborn. I don't find her to be selfish at all, but more selfless. She is willing to sacrifice herself over and over again for those she loves, including Speio, Lo, and her best friend Jenna. I love how she never fears to put herself in harms way to save people. But her duties as ruler and her duties to those she love often don't mesh.
Lo, well, you'll find Lo to be a bit different in this book. As the blurb points out he's been poisoned, and he can't remember who Narissa is, despite the fact that they've bonded. And of course, with Lo's memory on the Fritz, others are mover than happy to move in and usurp his time. But he and Narissa still have a connection, and Lo's body can't seem to forget that, which gives great hope throughout the book.
Speio, well, I was mad at Speio after Waterfell. I really wanted to just punch him in his head. Then I read this book and he's so much more concerned about Narissa and her safety. He's also back to being a great friend. Narissa has forgiven him for his transgressions. But Speio is still quite naive about things and this turns against him in the long run. As much as he wants to be loyal to Narissa, things don't necessarily always turn out the way they should be.
The secondary characters in this book are just as great as the first. I love Jenna. She's the ultimate best friend. She super supportive and keeps Narissa's secret so well. Cara of course makes an appearance again, and I think you'll be surprised at her character development in this one.
To say that this story takes a turn your not expecting is an understatement. I truly was not expecting where it went. I loved how Howard kept the flow going and the mystery intact. The pacing is amazing and I flew through the book. The descriptions are so visual I can easily picture them in my mind. Especially when Howard describes the water scenes. All a testament to Amalie's amazing writing. Once again, Rissa's voice drew me and in and didn't let me go. As with the first book, I got sucked into this and could not put it down. I read really wanting to know what would happen.
I can say that I can KILL Howard for the small cliffhanger she decided would be the end of this book. And I really need book #3 NOW because how can she expect me to wait to see the conclusion of this series! I'm totally hooked on this world and these characters. I need to see what happens to them and can only hope for a happily ever after for everyone! And, while it's not a mermaid book, I still think fans of such underwater books will completely appreciate this series and need to pick it up!
Blurb from Goodreads:
The coronation is over.
But the battle has just begun.
Nerissa Marin has won her crown. But can she keep it? Already, her ties to the human realm are driving a wedge between Nerissa and her people. When word arrives that her part-human prince consort, Lo, has been poisoned, she makes the difficult choice to leave Waterfell and return landside. As the royal courts debate her decision, even more disturbing rumors surface: a plot is rising against her, led by someone she least expects.
On land, Nerissa learns another shocking truth: �Lo does not remember who she is. As her choice to try to save him threatens her hold on her crown, changing loyalties and uncertainty test her courage in ways she could never have imagined. Nerissa will have one last chance to prove herself as a queen …and save the undersea kingdom she loves.
**SPOILER ALERT** If you have not read the first book in this series, Waterfell, stop here! There may be spoilers associated with that book. You have been warned!
I have to start this review with letting you know that I'm a huge Amalie Howard fan. So, given a chance to read something she writes, you can bet I jump on it. When Waterfell was being published, I jumped on the opportunity to read and review it. And I was not disappointed in any way! I was expected a typical mermaid story, to be honest. I guess I didn't read the blurb closely, or I might not have read it at all considering I'm just a fan or the author in general. What I got was so much more! Not mermaids, but sea monsters, aliens, creatures that can transform themselves so they look like humans and live among our society almost seamlessly.
This cover is just amazing. It certainly matches the cover of the first book. What I love most about this cover is the colors and the way they pop off the page. And it's very simple in it's presentation.
This book picks up where the first book left off. Nerissa is in Waterfell, but there is much unrest there. And she has sent Lo off to live in the human world, thinking that would keep him safe. But no one is safe, anywhere. There is unrest in Waterfell, but there are people on land who want to hurt Narissa, and they'll do it by hurting those who mean the most to her. Imagine ruling an underwater world from the land. Not an easy feat for the newly crowned ruler of Waterfell who has many against her from the start!
I really love Narissa. If you read Seamonster, Speio talk a lot about how selfish Narissa is. But he slowly comes to realize her reasons for why she is this way. And this continues in Ocenborn. I don't find her to be selfish at all, but more selfless. She is willing to sacrifice herself over and over again for those she loves, including Speio, Lo, and her best friend Jenna. I love how she never fears to put herself in harms way to save people. But her duties as ruler and her duties to those she love often don't mesh.
Lo, well, you'll find Lo to be a bit different in this book. As the blurb points out he's been poisoned, and he can't remember who Narissa is, despite the fact that they've bonded. And of course, with Lo's memory on the Fritz, others are mover than happy to move in and usurp his time. But he and Narissa still have a connection, and Lo's body can't seem to forget that, which gives great hope throughout the book.
Speio, well, I was mad at Speio after Waterfell. I really wanted to just punch him in his head. Then I read this book and he's so much more concerned about Narissa and her safety. He's also back to being a great friend. Narissa has forgiven him for his transgressions. But Speio is still quite naive about things and this turns against him in the long run. As much as he wants to be loyal to Narissa, things don't necessarily always turn out the way they should be.
The secondary characters in this book are just as great as the first. I love Jenna. She's the ultimate best friend. She super supportive and keeps Narissa's secret so well. Cara of course makes an appearance again, and I think you'll be surprised at her character development in this one.
To say that this story takes a turn your not expecting is an understatement. I truly was not expecting where it went. I loved how Howard kept the flow going and the mystery intact. The pacing is amazing and I flew through the book. The descriptions are so visual I can easily picture them in my mind. Especially when Howard describes the water scenes. All a testament to Amalie's amazing writing. Once again, Rissa's voice drew me and in and didn't let me go. As with the first book, I got sucked into this and could not put it down. I read really wanting to know what would happen.
I can say that I can KILL Howard for the small cliffhanger she decided would be the end of this book. And I really need book #3 NOW because how can she expect me to wait to see the conclusion of this series! I'm totally hooked on this world and these characters. I need to see what happens to them and can only hope for a happily ever after for everyone! And, while it's not a mermaid book, I still think fans of such underwater books will completely appreciate this series and need to pick it up!
August 13, 2014
I loved this boo; it was a brilliant sequel that managed to be better than the first. Oceanborn was a great fantasy YA read. The stakes were upped, the characters grew, the romance deepened, and the ending left me gasping for more.
September 12, 2015
Rating: 3.5/5
Review coming soon!
Review coming soon!
March 6, 2019
I like the storyline and I feel there was a lot revealed in this book, like what was up with Jenna ESP?!. There’s a bigger picture yet to unfold but nothing has been written for this series since 2014 so fingers crossed these characters re-emerge and enlighten Amalie to write a sequel.
I think Rissa has grown a lot in some ways but she still has a way to go. While her attitude is less childish she still needs to learn to rely on others, it could be the difference between someone living or dying and we know too many have lost their lives already. Lo and Rissa’s relationship is so strong it transcends everything even poisoning!
The day I stumbled on this series in the library was like finding my own little treasure trove! I seriously hope there is a sequel to this book, I need to know what happens to this new challenge throw down!
I think Rissa has grown a lot in some ways but she still has a way to go. While her attitude is less childish she still needs to learn to rely on others, it could be the difference between someone living or dying and we know too many have lost their lives already. Lo and Rissa’s relationship is so strong it transcends everything even poisoning!
The day I stumbled on this series in the library was like finding my own little treasure trove! I seriously hope there is a sequel to this book, I need to know what happens to this new challenge throw down!
September 13, 2021
Following the conclusion of Waterfell, this book takes place a few months after Nerissa left Lo on land while she went back to Waterfell to try to settle the courts (or something).
This book was slightly less predictable than the previous, and slightly more enjoyable. It was easier to connect to the characters emotions/feelings.
There are more hybrids to be taken care of, and the fact that both Nerissa’s mother and the crazy scientist (once) principal is still on the loose. Now, there is more going on in the courts within Waterfell AND Lo has gotten ill.
The book did end on a plot twist of a cliffhanger, and there does not seem to be any word of another book to follow through.
Overall, the second book is better than the first, but I would still consider it a 3/5 star rating - which is still the middle ground.
This book was slightly less predictable than the previous, and slightly more enjoyable. It was easier to connect to the characters emotions/feelings.
There are more hybrids to be taken care of, and the fact that both Nerissa’s mother and the crazy scientist (once) principal is still on the loose. Now, there is more going on in the courts within Waterfell AND Lo has gotten ill.
The book did end on a plot twist of a cliffhanger, and there does not seem to be any word of another book to follow through.
Overall, the second book is better than the first, but I would still consider it a 3/5 star rating - which is still the middle ground.
May 21, 2016
EEEEEEEEEE It's finally here! I was majorly excited to get to review Oceanborn, and the excitement is still lingering long after I've finished reading, I've got to say! I LOVED Waterfell, it pleasantly surprised me and I couldn't get enough, I've been waiting for Oceanborn for what seems like years! I believe I coined the term "mermaliens" when reviewing Waterfell, and as I said, Waterfell was incredibly unique, and Oceanborn has continued this on. In fact Oceanborn has topped Waterfell I think!
As we enter in to Oceanborn, picking up where Waterfell left off, the stakes are way higher, the romance is continuing and getting more serious and the characters have not only developed more, but they've kinda made you love them more too!
Nerissa was a bit of a toss up fro me in Waterfell. At times I thought she was selfish and I kinda didn't like her all too much BUT she redeemed herself and I felt became a better person, and as I said in my review of Waterfell, while I did dislike her slightly, having a flawed protagonist made her more realistic and it was a nice change from all the perfect people. In Oceanborn, I finally managed to fully love her instead of the whole "I like you.....no I don't..." thing. I 100% loved her this time round.
In Oceanborn we see Nerissa being a fantastic Queen, a Queen that is truly worthy of the word. You can really look up to her and admire her and how she's acting and what she's doing. She does what is best for her people, no matter what they are, who they are or what it costs her. She's more selfless than selfish this time round, and I love it!
Lo. Lo and his memory loss. DAMMIT AMALIE HOW COULD YOU?! Nerissa sends Lo off to keep him safe and look what the hell happens! Lo was still a sweetheart though, and he is fast approaching joining my list of fictional characters I'm a little bit in love with. Oh dear. He's a tad different, but as I said, still sweet. The whole memory loss and people moving in on him was a great cause of outrage when reading though!
"BUT THE ROMANCE" I hear you shriek in agony. Never fear. While Lo has no memory, he and Nerissa have a bond that pretty much doesn't give a crap about any memory loss and is determined to keep things going. It continued to be as sweet, cute and balanced as it was in Waterfell, and I love the fact they're loyal to each other and have each other's backs, it's the kind of romance that feels believable and is really great to read.
I didn't say much about Speio in my review for Waterfell, mostly cause he really needed to be punched in the face and I kinda hated him. HOWEVER, in this book he's back to being friend of the year or whatever. He cares about Nerissa's safety and wants to be loyal buuuuuttt his character flaw, aka his naivety, well, let's just say things don't always go how we want shall we?
I continue to love Jenna and her relationship with Nerissa. I seriously love this friendship, it's one of my favourites! She continues to make me laugh to the ugly snort laughing stage of laughter! I also love how the frienship between the two continues to be important, in Waterfell the frienship was just as important as the romance and I enjoyed seeing it continue, and Jenna taking her BFF duties seriously. Cara. Well. Her character development was intriguing. That is all.
In short, all the characters, including secondary characters, continue to be written with depth and multiple dimensions, and they continue to develop in to even more awesome and loveable characters!
The narrative was just as engaging as it was in Waterfell. The writing continued to be absolutely beautiful, and continued to weave a fantastically unique story and astounding world. The descriptions and world building continues to be as vivid as it is in Waterfell, everything can so easily be pictured, and has been effortlessly created with lots of detail, without clogging up the narrative with pages of description. You really do feel like you're there sometimes!
Much like with Waterfell, I was hooked from the first page and I couldn't book the book down until I was done. Like, I was walking around the house and going up and downstairs with my eyes glued to the Kindle, and I had a near miss with a door! It's so fast paced with a fantastic flow, you pretty much zip through it unless, unlike me, you can exercise some self control and force yourself to read slower!
Waterfell for me had plenty of twists and turns but I guessed the huge reveal, this time..not so much. There's so many twists and turns and I never saw any of them coming, I never guessed where the book was going nor was I expecting it and I really enjoyed how Amalie kept you guessing and kept the mystery this time round!
Aaannndd Amalie...that cliffhanger....WHY DO YOU HAVE TO DO THIS TO ME?! I can't even. You're gonna be left wanting more and with an agonized wait for the next book!
Oceanborn is the sequel fans where all hoping for, it surpasses Waterfell fantastically.
Oceanborn continues a fantastic series that really stands out from the crowd, that continues to be unique, continues to make you laugh and continues to give you one of the best written romances I've come across lately! Not to mention the totally unique premise and mythology that I loved so much about Waterfell! Fast paced and full of plot twists and with a nice little cliffhanger to make you scream, Oceanborn is going to leave you with the mother of all book hangovers! You have been warned!
As we enter in to Oceanborn, picking up where Waterfell left off, the stakes are way higher, the romance is continuing and getting more serious and the characters have not only developed more, but they've kinda made you love them more too!
Nerissa was a bit of a toss up fro me in Waterfell. At times I thought she was selfish and I kinda didn't like her all too much BUT she redeemed herself and I felt became a better person, and as I said in my review of Waterfell, while I did dislike her slightly, having a flawed protagonist made her more realistic and it was a nice change from all the perfect people. In Oceanborn, I finally managed to fully love her instead of the whole "I like you.....no I don't..." thing. I 100% loved her this time round.
In Oceanborn we see Nerissa being a fantastic Queen, a Queen that is truly worthy of the word. You can really look up to her and admire her and how she's acting and what she's doing. She does what is best for her people, no matter what they are, who they are or what it costs her. She's more selfless than selfish this time round, and I love it!
Lo. Lo and his memory loss. DAMMIT AMALIE HOW COULD YOU?! Nerissa sends Lo off to keep him safe and look what the hell happens! Lo was still a sweetheart though, and he is fast approaching joining my list of fictional characters I'm a little bit in love with. Oh dear. He's a tad different, but as I said, still sweet. The whole memory loss and people moving in on him was a great cause of outrage when reading though!
"BUT THE ROMANCE" I hear you shriek in agony. Never fear. While Lo has no memory, he and Nerissa have a bond that pretty much doesn't give a crap about any memory loss and is determined to keep things going. It continued to be as sweet, cute and balanced as it was in Waterfell, and I love the fact they're loyal to each other and have each other's backs, it's the kind of romance that feels believable and is really great to read.
I didn't say much about Speio in my review for Waterfell, mostly cause he really needed to be punched in the face and I kinda hated him. HOWEVER, in this book he's back to being friend of the year or whatever. He cares about Nerissa's safety and wants to be loyal buuuuuttt his character flaw, aka his naivety, well, let's just say things don't always go how we want shall we?
I continue to love Jenna and her relationship with Nerissa. I seriously love this friendship, it's one of my favourites! She continues to make me laugh to the ugly snort laughing stage of laughter! I also love how the frienship between the two continues to be important, in Waterfell the frienship was just as important as the romance and I enjoyed seeing it continue, and Jenna taking her BFF duties seriously. Cara. Well. Her character development was intriguing. That is all.
In short, all the characters, including secondary characters, continue to be written with depth and multiple dimensions, and they continue to develop in to even more awesome and loveable characters!
The narrative was just as engaging as it was in Waterfell. The writing continued to be absolutely beautiful, and continued to weave a fantastically unique story and astounding world. The descriptions and world building continues to be as vivid as it is in Waterfell, everything can so easily be pictured, and has been effortlessly created with lots of detail, without clogging up the narrative with pages of description. You really do feel like you're there sometimes!
Much like with Waterfell, I was hooked from the first page and I couldn't book the book down until I was done. Like, I was walking around the house and going up and downstairs with my eyes glued to the Kindle, and I had a near miss with a door! It's so fast paced with a fantastic flow, you pretty much zip through it unless, unlike me, you can exercise some self control and force yourself to read slower!
Waterfell for me had plenty of twists and turns but I guessed the huge reveal, this time..not so much. There's so many twists and turns and I never saw any of them coming, I never guessed where the book was going nor was I expecting it and I really enjoyed how Amalie kept you guessing and kept the mystery this time round!
Aaannndd Amalie...that cliffhanger....WHY DO YOU HAVE TO DO THIS TO ME?! I can't even. You're gonna be left wanting more and with an agonized wait for the next book!
Oceanborn is the sequel fans where all hoping for, it surpasses Waterfell fantastically.
Oceanborn continues a fantastic series that really stands out from the crowd, that continues to be unique, continues to make you laugh and continues to give you one of the best written romances I've come across lately! Not to mention the totally unique premise and mythology that I loved so much about Waterfell! Fast paced and full of plot twists and with a nice little cliffhanger to make you scream, Oceanborn is going to leave you with the mother of all book hangovers! You have been warned!
June 19, 2020
I absolutely love this series and I really wish there was a third book coming out soon. Both this and the first book are really well written with a consistent plot line that many novels lack. I do have to ask of anyone knows is there will be a book 3 though, because it's been like 6 years and in still waiting ;3;
March 15, 2018
Good read
This was another good read. Some of the plots were easily figured out, while others were revealed as surprises. I can't wait to read the next one n find out what happens.
This was another good read. Some of the plots were easily figured out, while others were revealed as surprises. I can't wait to read the next one n find out what happens.
June 7, 2017
I thought this book was exceptional.
July 10, 2025
Loved reading this book, it was so fantastic, loved the developments and how it worked out!
February 23, 2024
I loved this book! It was the perfect sequel to the first book & the characters only got better! Amalie Howard delivers the most perfect imagery there is. The transformations are so mind blowing & otherworldly it feels as if you are there watching it happen right before your eyes. The romance is spicy & the progression of the story is very exhilarating & I could never get enough! I was very disappointed with the cliffhanger at the end, as I wanted more! Amalie Howard is definitely a five star author. Thank you!
September 13, 2014
Original Link to the review at my blog Le' Grande Codex - here
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It is always a joy to read a sequel and find out that it is even better than its predecessor and Oceanborn does not disappoint. I always make it a point to read Harlequin Teen books and The Aquarathi series definitely makes that cut. Following in the footsteps of Waterfell, Oceanborn boosts of a particularly enticing cover, strong characters, a strong plot consisting of some very unsuspecting surprises.
Oceanborn picks up where Waterfell left off. Nerissa has been reinstated as the Queen of Waterfell but unrest reigns supreme. In a bid to keep Lo safe, she sent him to the human world. But that seemed not to be the case. There is danger everywhere. There are those below and above ground who would go to great lengths to harm Nerissa and her loved ones fall in that category too. And Nerissa must do all she can to brave such dire odds.
Nerissa says that she is an alien ergo, human emotions don't apply to her but out of all of them I found our young Aquarathi Queen to be the most human of them all. She is by no means perfect. There was a time when she was hesitant, afraid, sometimes selfish and sometimes a little stupid. But she is selfless too and willing to sacrifice her happiness to help her friends and family. And seriously queenly duties do not mix well with the desires of the heart and it is interesting how Rissa tackles it all with some very heart-warming and some fierce moments along the way.
Lo. Well he was a bit more different this time. An attack on his person rendered him amnesiac. He doesn't know his other Aquarathi half at the moment. He doesn't remember Nerissa and his personality does a u-turn. But that electrifying chemistry still holds strong. Amnesia may have affected his brain but his body still remembers Nerissa. The dangerously hot and sexy Lo was too adorably cute as he stood firm with Nerissa against all odds, adamant to recover his memories and recover his missing piece.
Despite all odds, the bound stays true. A bond that transcends all. I really melted at the romantic cuteness between Lo and Rissa here. They were too cute together. For Speio I felt really bad. He got mixed in the wrong crowd in the first book and here when he had just regained his worth and Rissa's friendship, he gets thrown another surprising odd bone at the springing more dire circumstances for Nerissa and Lo.
Among the secondary characters Jenna truly stood at the front. We saw a glance of it in Waterfell and it in Waterfell and it is even more apparent in Oceanborn. Of course having experienced Amalie Howard's brand of writing in the first book, I expected surprises where I didn't think possible and in places never thought imaginable and I was not disappointed at all. Howard maintains a constant flow with strong never lagging, never speeding too fast, just maintaining the perfect pace and keeping hooked hitching us with the twists and turns along the way. And I really dob't like cliffhangers. Hope we'll get a 3rd book soon.
"An excitable and palpable & passionate sequel that has the power to render us yearning for more"
September 24, 2019
This book was...so good.
SO GOOD.
Nerissa's character arc makes incredible progress in Oceanborn. Now that she's queen, she struggles with her power, her responsibility, and an impossible choice: save her mate, Lo, or remain with her people in Waterfell. Nerissa is a dynamic, developed character, and really comes to life in this book. And Lo, my favorite. The book begins where he has amnesia, and can't even remember Nerissa. It broke my heart because Lorissa (they need a ship name) is forever.
This book is also full of the best twists. Cara's role takes an interesting turn and new secrets about Nerissa's mom come to light. The plot is fast paced and unpredictable, and every moment I wasn't reading Oceanborn was torture.
And that ending! I need book three!
SO GOOD.
Nerissa's character arc makes incredible progress in Oceanborn. Now that she's queen, she struggles with her power, her responsibility, and an impossible choice: save her mate, Lo, or remain with her people in Waterfell. Nerissa is a dynamic, developed character, and really comes to life in this book. And Lo, my favorite. The book begins where he has amnesia, and can't even remember Nerissa. It broke my heart because Lorissa (they need a ship name) is forever.
This book is also full of the best twists. Cara's role takes an interesting turn and new secrets about Nerissa's mom come to light. The plot is fast paced and unpredictable, and every moment I wasn't reading Oceanborn was torture.
And that ending! I need book three!
July 26, 2014
A brilliant sequel that managed to top the first, Oceanborn was a fantastic YA read. The stakes were upped, the characters grew, the romance deepened, and the ending left me wanting more. I absolutely LOVED this book!
Nerissa was my least favorite part of book 1. I had found her to be selfish, more concerned with running away from her problems than being a good leader to her people. But, in this book, she proved what a strong queen she could be. She was determined to do what was best for her people, whether Aquarathi, hybrid, or human. She really became an admirable character and I ended up really liking her.
Lo was as amazing as ever. Even with memory loss, he was sweet and utterly adorable. He stood by Nerissa, no matter what, even if it meant facing the suspicion of the Aquarathi. He was wonderful and I loved him even more in this book.
The romance was lovely. I thought it was so sweet that, despite Lo's memory loss, they still had a bond that transcended memory. Nerissa and Lo were steadfastly loyal to each other, determined to stand by each other, no matter the situation. I thought they were a perfect couple.
The plot was fast paced and I was hooked the entire way through. There were a few twists along the way, along with some thrills as Nerissa dealt with the danger facing her people. I loved the story and the ending was a cliffhanger that has me itching to get my hands on book 3. Can't wait to read it!
Oceanborn was a fantastic YA paranormal romance. I absolutely loved this book. It had everything that made book 1 so good and did it better. Fans of book 1, you will love this one. And, YA lovers, this is a series you'll definitely want to check out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Nerissa was my least favorite part of book 1. I had found her to be selfish, more concerned with running away from her problems than being a good leader to her people. But, in this book, she proved what a strong queen she could be. She was determined to do what was best for her people, whether Aquarathi, hybrid, or human. She really became an admirable character and I ended up really liking her.
Lo was as amazing as ever. Even with memory loss, he was sweet and utterly adorable. He stood by Nerissa, no matter what, even if it meant facing the suspicion of the Aquarathi. He was wonderful and I loved him even more in this book.
The romance was lovely. I thought it was so sweet that, despite Lo's memory loss, they still had a bond that transcended memory. Nerissa and Lo were steadfastly loyal to each other, determined to stand by each other, no matter the situation. I thought they were a perfect couple.
The plot was fast paced and I was hooked the entire way through. There were a few twists along the way, along with some thrills as Nerissa dealt with the danger facing her people. I loved the story and the ending was a cliffhanger that has me itching to get my hands on book 3. Can't wait to read it!
Oceanborn was a fantastic YA paranormal romance. I absolutely loved this book. It had everything that made book 1 so good and did it better. Fans of book 1, you will love this one. And, YA lovers, this is a series you'll definitely want to check out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
September 14, 2014
I read the first book in this series a long while ago and it was definitely something unique that I have never seen before,, although I was familiar with the author even before she started this series. So I was anxiously waiting for the second book in this series.
Nerissa has finally descended into her rightful throne but there is still so much more danger in store of her. Especially after she leaves her love, Leo on land to go into the water. I really can't say anything more because I will ruin it for anyone else who has not read this series yet.
As always, the thing that interests me the most about this series is the plot. It's such a refreshing one. I love reading about aliens, and this was the first book I read about them, but definitely not the last. Aside from that, there is not much going on and this was the same problem I had with the first book. It was going a bit too slow at times and I got bored.
The romance is also another subplot of this story but it was almost non-existent. I wanted more development in the romance but nothing happened. It almost felt like the first book was repeating itself considering the romance subplot. There is also the development of some of the minor characters that we didn't see much of in the first book. That was definitely a plus. Specially getting to know more about Speio and what kind of person he is.
There was a little twist going on throughout the book and although I figured it out much sooner, it was still the most interesting thing about this book. And the end was so exhilarating! I LOVED it. I cannot wait for book three!
Nerissa has finally descended into her rightful throne but there is still so much more danger in store of her. Especially after she leaves her love, Leo on land to go into the water. I really can't say anything more because I will ruin it for anyone else who has not read this series yet.
As always, the thing that interests me the most about this series is the plot. It's such a refreshing one. I love reading about aliens, and this was the first book I read about them, but definitely not the last. Aside from that, there is not much going on and this was the same problem I had with the first book. It was going a bit too slow at times and I got bored.
The romance is also another subplot of this story but it was almost non-existent. I wanted more development in the romance but nothing happened. It almost felt like the first book was repeating itself considering the romance subplot. There is also the development of some of the minor characters that we didn't see much of in the first book. That was definitely a plus. Specially getting to know more about Speio and what kind of person he is.
There was a little twist going on throughout the book and although I figured it out much sooner, it was still the most interesting thing about this book. And the end was so exhilarating! I LOVED it. I cannot wait for book three!
August 9, 2014
Oceanborn starts off with Nerissa settling into her new role as Queen. She soon feels excruciating pain and knows it is due to her bond with Lo and something is wrong. She has a tough decision, stay in Waterfell or go find out what has happened to Lo. Nerissa heart is pulling her towards Lo and she knows there will be problems in court with her leave. Nerissa soon discovers Lo does not remember her or there bond and she has a limited time to make him remember.
I savored every second of Oceanborn. I will forever want to do cartwheels for Lo. Charming has nothing on him. Him and Nerissa connection is so felt with every heart beat. Jenna is the best friend I will forever wish for. She has balls of steel. Now we have new eye candy and oh yah girls swoon. We now have a tall green eyed dream named Carden. Boy did I love hearing Amalie describe this Aquarathi.
This book had it all I was giddy and laughed so hard at times. There were times I was on the phone reading all about Carden to my co-blogger. Then there were very emotional times. There was some feisty chicks who do not put up with crap and know how to throw down. That I think is one of the things I love most about Amalie's writing is how strong she makes her female characters. Even the supporting female characters are always strong in some way and never weak. This book is a must read and I am giving it 5 out of 5 stars.
I savored every second of Oceanborn. I will forever want to do cartwheels for Lo. Charming has nothing on him. Him and Nerissa connection is so felt with every heart beat. Jenna is the best friend I will forever wish for. She has balls of steel. Now we have new eye candy and oh yah girls swoon. We now have a tall green eyed dream named Carden. Boy did I love hearing Amalie describe this Aquarathi.
This book had it all I was giddy and laughed so hard at times. There were times I was on the phone reading all about Carden to my co-blogger. Then there were very emotional times. There was some feisty chicks who do not put up with crap and know how to throw down. That I think is one of the things I love most about Amalie's writing is how strong she makes her female characters. Even the supporting female characters are always strong in some way and never weak. This book is a must read and I am giving it 5 out of 5 stars.
December 14, 2015
The second book continues the same style of its predecessor mixing interesting shape shifting leviathan aliens and their politics with cliched high school sitcom problems. Seriously I expected Nerissa a queen and senior who should you know look to the future not on dumb dances and concerts when their are killer hybrids that could expose your kind to a world that would quickly fear and try to hunt you down as your friend while a true keeper of one is not the norm for humanity at large. I liked Nerissa for her convictions even though I got so sick and tired of how she kept going on and on about humans are just so awesome and how her species way of thinking is so dumb. Oh Speio you sad lonely guy I can't fault you being trapped by the rival queen as your state of mind made you an easy target. If there is a third it means another cool aquarathi court and its politics to learn that I am interested to read and usually third books tend to downplay the safe mundane setting for true showing of the fantastical.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2014
Oceanborn by Amalie Howard is the second book in the Aquarathi series. This fantasy involves Lo suffering from amnesia that is caused by more than a head injury. Nerissa and company endeavor to find a cure and bring Lo's memory back. I enjoyed the twists and turns and the ending makes me want more added to this series! Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Teen for the arc and the chance to read and review this great book!
April 27, 2015
Although this is a sequel to Waterfell, it has enough substance and interest to stand on its own. My favorite characters are back, namely Jenna, Nerissa, and Lo. With some new additions, their story comes to life in the capable hands in Amalie Howard. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more by this author.
July 20, 2016
Oddly enough, I am actually enjoying this series even though there are a couple of things, that are quite common amongst YA novels. At least the mean girls have a reason for being the characters that they are.
August 12, 2014
This was alright, but when I look at Amalie Howard's page it says there are only two books in this series, which makes the ending of book two kind of stinky if it is really the end of the series. Hopefully a book three comes....soon :-)
January 2, 2015
I am doing 5 cartwheels for this book! I love the Amalie has taken these aliens and made them gruesomely beautiful.
Check out my full review here:
http://seeingdoubleinneverland.blogsp...
Check out my full review here:
http://seeingdoubleinneverland.blogsp...
January 2, 2015
This book was even better than the first. It was great to see Nerrisa and Lo work everything out. This book ended with another cliffhanger so I will have to keep my eyes open for the next one.
I received this free from goodreads.com
I received this free from goodreads.com
March 5, 2015
I thought that Oceanborn was amazing!! It is a great book that leaves you breathless, the mysteries and adventures that lurk in this book are great! The romance, the suspense, everything leads up to a great ending. Amalie leaves you hanging in the last pages of this book, wanting to read more...
February 29, 2016
i don't know why i was so much more into this one than the first one. i ended up liking these books a lot, but the storyline was left unfinished and there doesn't seem to be a third book? need to ask author about that when I meet her.
July 6, 2015
More like 3'5
August 4, 2014
This book was even better than the first! I absolutely loved it. The development of a couple of characters we didn't learn about much in the first was fantastic.
November 10, 2014
OMG I SERIOUSLY NEED THE NEXT BOOK!!!!!!!!
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