Rebecca Fittery continues to delight with her unique fantasy world where the romances are typically central to each of her stories. Mermaid Exile is the ninth in the Istoire Awakens series, but I would say this story read as a standalone, though I would suggest reading the previous books to get the best picture of the plot and some of the familiar faces within.
I continue to enjoy the many unique and interesting facets of the Istoire world, as well as learning more about the lore and the new cultures. Love, hope, redemption, and cooperation all continue to be important themes in the story. There are several lines in the story that are humorous and well written. And the main reason I fell in love with Rebecca’s stories is the romance, which she continues to write beautifully when present.
Though the romance was important, it did feel a little less central to the story compared to the other books in the series. Additionally, I found the plot to have moved a little too quickly when we neared the climax, resulting in a few scenes having felt a little rushed. Still, these points were minor and did not detract from my overall enjoyment, so I will rate this story about 4.5 stars, rounding up to 5.
I recommend this story for lovers of fairy tale retellings which focus on romance while having a unique and interesting plot. Rebecca’s stories continue to give me hope for the fantasy romance genre as she writes clean, wholesome stories where redemption and love shine through.
“Mermaid Exile” opens with the same enchanted, hopeful atmosphere that all books in the Istoire Awakens series do. “Enemies to Lovers” takes a creative new approach in that Ulf and Cora aren’t so much opposed to each other, but their bond is challenged by the conflicting nature of their respective realms. Land and sea—and the difference in perspective and experiences between their denizens—forms the divide Cora and Ulf’s bond promises to reconcile.
Cora is strong willed, and yet still acknowledges her vulnerability in a new world, accepting Ulf’s support. Ulf recognizes Cora’s strength while offering his encouragement in moments of struggle. Together, their relationship is one where both characters draw on a bond of friendship and mutual respect. As always, the author approaches characterization and romantic relationships with nuance and depth.
While romantic scenes aren’t as prominent until later in the story, I found Cora’s transition into a new world convincing and compelling. Details such as the difference in sound, the force of gravity, and the dryness of the air on land made me feel immersed in her experience. And I enjoyed seeing how the magic of pixie dust affected that of the land and sea.
I look forward to exploring more of the formerly isolated (and thus mysterious) lands of Haven and Panhaven in the series’ next installment.