Finwave

by Lorelei Balansa

Finwave might be the strangest fish you've ever heard of, but that's because she's not just a fish. She's an alien fish, a species of fish that are known for being violent and murderous.

One day, our little fish descended from space and fell into earth's atmosphere, where she was then raised by a lionfish who raised her to be good. After a terrible incident causes Finwave to run away, she must embark on a journey across the sea to discover the potential of her alien powers and choose who she truly is.

180 pages, Paperback

Published July 14, 2023

About the author

Lorelei Balansa is an author and character designer who has written the Inventor Tarskin series and stand-alone novels such as Feral Hybrids and Dreamworld. She specializes in writing fictional novels suitable for general audiences.

Balansa comes from a mixed Mexican and Filipino heritage. She has gained her interest in storytelling at the young age of 10 and began studying to become an author at the age of 13. Balansa became interested in storytelling by mainly watching TV shows and movies.

Reviews

[Kelly Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Finwave,” by Lorelei Balansa, is an unusual fantasy for young readers set under the sea. It tells the tale of a female alien fish, Finwave,” who descends upon the earth and falls in the sea. Finwave is at first unconscious and, one would think, vulnerable to predators, and although several sea creatures attempt to eat her, she manages to reach the sandy bottom, where she is discovered by a friendly lionfish, Devere. Devere recognized that Finwave is an alien fish, and they are known to be killers. Neverthelesss, he takes it upon himself to watch over Finwave like his own child and keep her safe.
It is difficult for me to say what age-group this book is ideal for; although it is written to appeal to kids, there is a scene of a shark attacking people on a boat that could be disturbing to young readers. The story is a bit like a mash-up of “Tarzan” and “Finding Nemo.” Finwave has the power to heal plants, as well as the power to kill. But Finwave abhors killing, even when she is in danger of starving to death-she would choose to refrain from killing and search for a meal of plants.
There were a few punctuation errors, and I think the story ought to have been trimmed down for a better flow. Overall, I found this to be an imaginative fishy fantasy, told with a child-like innocence that ought to appeal to young, resilient readers!

[Vita Nourish · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Finwave" presents a unique and imaginative journey that blends elements of science fiction and aquatic adventure into a compelling narrative. The concept of an alien fish with a violent heritage finding its way to Earth and being raised by a lionfish is both whimsical and intriguing, offering a fresh twist on the classic tale of self-discovery and identity.
The backdrop of the underwater world is vividly depicted, with the author's descriptions bringing to life the colorful and diverse inhabitants of the sea. The sense of adventure is palpable as Finwave navigates through this vibrant but dangerous underwater landscape, making for an engaging read.
It's a story that will appeal to fans of science fiction and fantasy alike, especially those who appreciate a deep dive into the realms of identity and moral dilemmas.