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New Protectorate #3.6
Faraway: The New Protectorate Stories: Volume Five
You're never alone in the water.Clementine Ortega is adrift. Isolated by her powerful abilities and left behind by a sister trying to forge her own path, she accepts a job no one in their right mind would ever agree a lifetime position on the barren Farallon Islands. Inhospitable, unreachable by boat, and surrounded by some of the deadliest, most territorial predators in the ocean, it's perfect for a witch whose isolation is necessary for her survival.
Emory was never cut out for pod life. One of those mermen who prefers solitary coves to the intense dynamics of a pod, he’s spent decades making the jagged shoreline of the Farallon Islands home, keeping his eyes out for a mate to entice — or steal, depending on the circumstances. It’s a lonely existence until the day a woman appears on the rocks.
His newest obsession thinks she’s alone when she dares to dip her toes into the water, unaware that the bloody hunt to claim her has already begun. Clementine is about to discover that tales of people being snatched by mermen are more than just paranoid whispers. The threat is very real… and he’s not letting her go.Faraway is a standalone novella in the wider New Protectorate series and can be read without the context of the other books. Content warnings can be found in the backmatter of the book and on the author's website.
Emory was never cut out for pod life. One of those mermen who prefers solitary coves to the intense dynamics of a pod, he’s spent decades making the jagged shoreline of the Farallon Islands home, keeping his eyes out for a mate to entice — or steal, depending on the circumstances. It’s a lonely existence until the day a woman appears on the rocks.
His newest obsession thinks she’s alone when she dares to dip her toes into the water, unaware that the bloody hunt to claim her has already begun. Clementine is about to discover that tales of people being snatched by mermen are more than just paranoid whispers. The threat is very real… and he’s not letting her go.Faraway is a standalone novella in the wider New Protectorate series and can be read without the context of the other books. Content warnings can be found in the backmatter of the book and on the author's website.
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 27, 2024
95 people are currently reading
370 people want to read
About the author
Abigail Kelly
11 books243 followersAbigail Kelly is a writer of alternate histories, love stories, and women with drive. Her work is heavily influenced by both her modest family roots and her passion for history. A former illustrator, she is now a bookseller at an independent bookshop where she gets to badly influence impressionable young minds and put her favorite books in eager hands. She is also the host of the Kingdom of Thirst podcast, a show all about romance novels and why they matter.
Her favorite authors are Shirley Jackson, V. E. Schwab, Ursula K. Le Guin, Kresley Cole, Nalini Singh, and just about anyone who writes about the weird and wonderful. She lives in San Francisco with her dog, Babs, who remains stubbornly illiterate.
Her favorite authors are Shirley Jackson, V. E. Schwab, Ursula K. Le Guin, Kresley Cole, Nalini Singh, and just about anyone who writes about the weird and wonderful. She lives in San Francisco with her dog, Babs, who remains stubbornly illiterate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
February 28, 2024
Whew, Emory (H) was intense, instinctive, and invested in Clementine (h). It was so exciting to get a new supernatural race in this series, I loved all the lore and details related to the merfolk. But they were definitely not Little Mermaid kind of merfolk, they're violent, covetous, and will mess someone up over their chosen mate...and Emory chooses the hell out of Clementine. If you like monster romance with some stalking elements (but for courting/protection/obsessive reasons) and a sweet (but capable when needed) FMC, I'd recommend this.
Clementine's a witch whose power is focused on telepathy so she takes a job on a barren island to be an ambassador to the merfolk, who have very little contact with the rest of the races. The position works fantastically for Clementine because it's painful for her to be around others, though she's also processing not being near her beloved, younger sister for the first time. As Clementine's acclimating to her new environment, she recognizes that there's a predator watching and stalking her, which would be Emory. And their first face to face meeting was intense. Written in third person, dual POV (with one other POV in the epilogue). No ow drama, tiny amount of om drama with the threat of another merman possibly trying to steal h away hanging over them. H was not a virgin (very slight history given just to say he's experienced, only with other mer, but he's also a loner so I don't imagine it was a ton) and h was a virgin.
I liked Clementine a lot, though she was softer at times than I wanted given the circumstances, but that was her personality. There was just an easy, lower angst feel to this romance despite some of her confusion and hesitations. Clementine felt so isolated and had never even had a friend that wasn't her sister so her thought processes as she first interacts with Emory were really interesting in contrast to his. Emory was far more black and white, he wants his mate and Clementine is his mate. His POV was also very enlightening over the cultural differences that these two were going to be navigating - things like gift giving/accepting, how common it is for merfolk to fight during courting and that bondage plays an important element. Regarding steam, because this is a monster romance clearly, Emory's not too unusually equipped. He had to prepare Clementine and he held himself back a good bit out of concern for her reactions, which led to some confronting and demanding by Clementine. There are a few explicit scenes.
Both of these characters had challenges regarding not belonging when they were younger and interesting parental dynamics. Not much of their familial interactions are on page, but Clementine does communicate with her sister a couple of times and we get a brief scene with a couple of Emory's siblings (one of which I'm curious about). Most of the book is just our main characters establishing their new relationship while navigating big cultural differences and a lot of newness for Clementine.
The climax was great, with claiming, protectiveness, a bit of danger, but also exchanging information that would help all parties. I loved the last two chapters with a communication being one of them with a cute Easter egg, and then the epilogue from Clementine's brother-in-law's POV (from the book Kohl) as he and his mate come to visit Clementine and Emory to see their newborn. Just all the preciousness there and it left me feeling lots of warm and fuzzies for both of these couples to end the book. I have no idea what's next in this world but I'm going to keep checking this series out!
Clementine's a witch whose power is focused on telepathy so she takes a job on a barren island to be an ambassador to the merfolk, who have very little contact with the rest of the races. The position works fantastically for Clementine because it's painful for her to be around others, though she's also processing not being near her beloved, younger sister for the first time. As Clementine's acclimating to her new environment, she recognizes that there's a predator watching and stalking her, which would be Emory. And their first face to face meeting was intense. Written in third person, dual POV (with one other POV in the epilogue). No ow drama, tiny amount of om drama with the threat of another merman possibly trying to steal h away hanging over them. H was not a virgin (very slight history given just to say he's experienced, only with other mer, but he's also a loner so I don't imagine it was a ton) and h was a virgin.
I liked Clementine a lot, though she was softer at times than I wanted given the circumstances, but that was her personality. There was just an easy, lower angst feel to this romance despite some of her confusion and hesitations. Clementine felt so isolated and had never even had a friend that wasn't her sister so her thought processes as she first interacts with Emory were really interesting in contrast to his. Emory was far more black and white, he wants his mate and Clementine is his mate. His POV was also very enlightening over the cultural differences that these two were going to be navigating - things like gift giving/accepting, how common it is for merfolk to fight during courting and that bondage plays an important element. Regarding steam, because this is a monster romance clearly, Emory's not too unusually equipped. He had to prepare Clementine and he held himself back a good bit out of concern for her reactions, which led to some confronting and demanding by Clementine. There are a few explicit scenes.
Both of these characters had challenges regarding not belonging when they were younger and interesting parental dynamics. Not much of their familial interactions are on page, but Clementine does communicate with her sister a couple of times and we get a brief scene with a couple of Emory's siblings (one of which I'm curious about). Most of the book is just our main characters establishing their new relationship while navigating big cultural differences and a lot of newness for Clementine.
The climax was great, with claiming, protectiveness, a bit of danger, but also exchanging information that would help all parties. I loved the last two chapters with a communication being one of them with a cute Easter egg, and then the epilogue from Clementine's brother-in-law's POV (from the book Kohl) as he and his mate come to visit Clementine and Emory to see their newborn. Just all the preciousness there and it left me feeling lots of warm and fuzzies for both of these couples to end the book. I have no idea what's next in this world but I'm going to keep checking this series out!
February 27, 2024
I would like to thank Abigail Kelly for the arc in exchange for my honest review!
Content or trigger warnings? Yes! Included in the back of the book.
Details?
The FMC is named Clementine, and she is in her early forties. The MMC is named Emory and he is roughly 150 years old.
Emory is sexually experienced. Clementine has not slept with anyone, she is a virgin.
There is light OM drama, another merman is interested in Clementine. There is no OW drama.
My thoughts?
Sometimes, I just really need a good stalker romance. A love interest who is utterly devoted to the FMC from the start, and my merman Emory was exactly that. He keeps his distance, he leaves beautiful gifts and he guards her from any threats she could face out on the island. Romantic as heck.
Clementine is a powerful witch who has spent the majority of her life with her sister at her side, but once Nelly wanted to make her own way in the world they split up. The ability to hear people’s thoughts has deeply impacted the way Clementine lives her life, and so she decides to go live on an island. Where all of the past keepers have ended up either dead or they disappear. That’s besides the point- it’s empty, and so Clementine is down for that. For the first time in her life she’s experiencing peace, but with that comes bone achingly loneliness.
So, with being aware of her stalker..she decides to befriend them.
Now, Emory’s intentions are not platonic nor are they innocent (dear gods) but once they meet he adjusts to what makes her the most comfortable. Heh well, that’s after the spicy first-meeting that they have. I love the detail of Clementine putting forward the initiative to become more sexually-intimate with each other, because as much as Emory’s body was forever stimulated just by being near her (breeding season y’know?) he was content with just being around her.
If there is one thing I genuinely look forward to with Abigail Kelly’s books with witches in them, I devour the witch-bond scenes. There is something about a big powerful man just absolutely getting knocked the hell out by some magic that gives me the warm and fuzzies. Emory was no exception. Clementine holds her own though as he’s recouping, and finally getting to see her mind-blasting abilities was so satisfying. All I could picture was Jack-Jack from The Incredibles 2 when he’s shooting laser beams out of his eyes…..except Clementine’s power comes with no visual warning.
Ezra and Mary Celeste are Emory’s siblings, and only meeting 2 out of the multiple he has makes me wonder how crazy family get togethers must be. In fact, that would probably have to be my one complaint is that I did not get more time with Emory’s siblings. Granted, this is Emory and Clementine’s book…but still it made me curious for if they get their own books in the future!
There is a heart warming epilogue including Emory, Clementine and their new bundle of joy. It’s Nelly and Clark (from Kohl) coming out to the island to meet their new family member, and Nelly and Clementine’s reaction to seeing each other was sweet. I believe it would have been the first time since they had went separate ways a couple years back, which is a huge amount of time for any pair of siblings but especially for them considering they were attached at the hip for a long time.
Overall, I devoured this book. I read it twice within a few days. It will definitely be in my reread pile.
Content or trigger warnings? Yes! Included in the back of the book.
Details?
The FMC is named Clementine, and she is in her early forties. The MMC is named Emory and he is roughly 150 years old.
Emory is sexually experienced. Clementine has not slept with anyone, she is a virgin.
There is light OM drama, another merman is interested in Clementine. There is no OW drama.
My thoughts?
Sometimes, I just really need a good stalker romance. A love interest who is utterly devoted to the FMC from the start, and my merman Emory was exactly that. He keeps his distance, he leaves beautiful gifts and he guards her from any threats she could face out on the island. Romantic as heck.
Clementine is a powerful witch who has spent the majority of her life with her sister at her side, but once Nelly wanted to make her own way in the world they split up. The ability to hear people’s thoughts has deeply impacted the way Clementine lives her life, and so she decides to go live on an island. Where all of the past keepers have ended up either dead or they disappear. That’s besides the point- it’s empty, and so Clementine is down for that. For the first time in her life she’s experiencing peace, but with that comes bone achingly loneliness.
So, with being aware of her stalker..she decides to befriend them.
Now, Emory’s intentions are not platonic nor are they innocent (dear gods) but once they meet he adjusts to what makes her the most comfortable. Heh well, that’s after the spicy first-meeting that they have. I love the detail of Clementine putting forward the initiative to become more sexually-intimate with each other, because as much as Emory’s body was forever stimulated just by being near her (breeding season y’know?) he was content with just being around her.
If there is one thing I genuinely look forward to with Abigail Kelly’s books with witches in them, I devour the witch-bond scenes. There is something about a big powerful man just absolutely getting knocked the hell out by some magic that gives me the warm and fuzzies. Emory was no exception. Clementine holds her own though as he’s recouping, and finally getting to see her mind-blasting abilities was so satisfying. All I could picture was Jack-Jack from The Incredibles 2 when he’s shooting laser beams out of his eyes…..except Clementine’s power comes with no visual warning.
Ezra and Mary Celeste are Emory’s siblings, and only meeting 2 out of the multiple he has makes me wonder how crazy family get togethers must be. In fact, that would probably have to be my one complaint is that I did not get more time with Emory’s siblings. Granted, this is Emory and Clementine’s book…but still it made me curious for if they get their own books in the future!
There is a heart warming epilogue including Emory, Clementine and their new bundle of joy. It’s Nelly and Clark (from Kohl) coming out to the island to meet their new family member, and Nelly and Clementine’s reaction to seeing each other was sweet. I believe it would have been the first time since they had went separate ways a couple years back, which is a huge amount of time for any pair of siblings but especially for them considering they were attached at the hip for a long time.
Overall, I devoured this book. I read it twice within a few days. It will definitely be in my reread pile.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2024
"She was all he tasted. All he saw. All he heard. All he felt. Clementine was everything."
Can I move to this universe? Please?
I loved everything about this story. Two characters who both felt left behind finding love and acceptance with each other. As with the other stories that I've read in this series, the characters act very mature with their problems and talk it out instead of letting it fester. And Emory was so supportive of Clementine's feelings about her inexperience with sexual activities and her need to take it slow. Also loved how well Abigail wrote the differences in each character's culture and how they dealt with those differences.
Hope to get more of these characters in future books!
Can I move to this universe? Please?
I loved everything about this story. Two characters who both felt left behind finding love and acceptance with each other. As with the other stories that I've read in this series, the characters act very mature with their problems and talk it out instead of letting it fester. And Emory was so supportive of Clementine's feelings about her inexperience with sexual activities and her need to take it slow. Also loved how well Abigail wrote the differences in each character's culture and how they dealt with those differences.
Hope to get more of these characters in future books!
November 24, 2024
I’m utterly obsessed with this universe and never want to read any other books ever again. I think I have one more standalone left but I can’t remember, and if not, I’m stuck waiting a week and a half until the next is released and may riot.
December 8, 2025
2.5-3 stars
I really enjoyed Clementine’s story and learning about her magic - that was all really well written.
My only thing is a me issue, not a book issue. Look I don’t know how I feel about merpeople. But also, I now want to know more about the pod. So who knows - either which way, loved learning about another culture within the world and still obsessed with the world
I really enjoyed Clementine’s story and learning about her magic - that was all really well written.
My only thing is a me issue, not a book issue. Look I don’t know how I feel about merpeople. But also, I now want to know more about the pod. So who knows - either which way, loved learning about another culture within the world and still obsessed with the world
February 23, 2024
"As centuries of political unions could attest, there was no better way of making friends with your neighbors than by marrying them."
Clementine is just looking for a place to find peace. Burdened by a telepathic ability so strong that she resorts to living on a nearly inhospitable island in Grim's Bay for a job that hopes to rebuild a relationship with the local merpeople.
Emory is an outcast from his pod, feeling quite alone in his familial cove while his pod mates roam the Bay. When a beautiful mate is quite literally dropped on his island, who is he to say no to a gift from Tempest?
I love the way Abigail brings these two together. Like many of her other pairings, it's not by the most conventional means, but they fit together like puzzle pieces. They meet each other where they're at and ask for what they need from each other (after some introspective pining, of course). I love love love a solid foundation of communication between a couple. In classic Abigail style, "No breakups, Only peril ™️"
Clementine is just looking for a place to find peace. Burdened by a telepathic ability so strong that she resorts to living on a nearly inhospitable island in Grim's Bay for a job that hopes to rebuild a relationship with the local merpeople.
Emory is an outcast from his pod, feeling quite alone in his familial cove while his pod mates roam the Bay. When a beautiful mate is quite literally dropped on his island, who is he to say no to a gift from Tempest?
I love the way Abigail brings these two together. Like many of her other pairings, it's not by the most conventional means, but they fit together like puzzle pieces. They meet each other where they're at and ask for what they need from each other (after some introspective pining, of course). I love love love a solid foundation of communication between a couple. In classic Abigail style, "No breakups, Only peril ™️"
February 28, 2024
Have you been dying for a merman romance?!🧜♂️Well look no further and make this book part of your world, Faraway by Abigail Kelly is FIN-TASTIC! (Yes, expect lots of puns.)
I’ve been excited for this one for what feels like a year, Abigail has been teasing us about our {redacted} merman Emory for so long (and we love it of course 😈). Emory is stubborn, possessive, intelligent, and arrogant in only the way a merman would be. He has chosen a more solitary life as appose to that with a pod, until he sets his eyes on this new human who dares to make a home in his cove- but almost immediately he knows this intruder is his mate, this human who dares to dip her toe in forbidden waters. I loved Emory! He was just the right amount of arrogant confidence and doting protective “touch her and drown” mate that I love so much. His and Clementines interactions, where things would often not go as he would think they would, were both hilarious, endearing, spicy, and amazing. His responses to learning that his mate may not be just as helpless as he first thought were so entertaining and yummy, especially when she ties him up🤤👌(spoiler: he was not put off in the least).
I LOVED Clementine! What she goes through with her powers and the isolation and overwhelm (I often found it comparable to sensory processing disorder difficulties) is SO relatable (again, something Abigail does so well). Clementine is like… crazy powerful too, like scary X-men style powers, but these powers have isolated her most of her life, minus her parents and sister. She is trying to be more independent, live her own life separate from her sister, something also so relatable as we all try to define ourselves as we grow, and takes this job live on this isolated cove in hopes of meeting and having dialogue with the mer-people, and boy did she get what she asked for and then some with our boy Emory. Bro doesn’t know the meaning of the word “quit” (in a non creepy, very consentual way). I loved watching this two meet, learn each other, and fight for each other as they grow together through the book. Plus of course the SPICE 👌👌👌😙 fantastic! Merman can get it, yes her mer-can.🥵
I’ve been excited for this one for what feels like a year, Abigail has been teasing us about our {redacted} merman Emory for so long (and we love it of course 😈). Emory is stubborn, possessive, intelligent, and arrogant in only the way a merman would be. He has chosen a more solitary life as appose to that with a pod, until he sets his eyes on this new human who dares to make a home in his cove- but almost immediately he knows this intruder is his mate, this human who dares to dip her toe in forbidden waters. I loved Emory! He was just the right amount of arrogant confidence and doting protective “touch her and drown” mate that I love so much. His and Clementines interactions, where things would often not go as he would think they would, were both hilarious, endearing, spicy, and amazing. His responses to learning that his mate may not be just as helpless as he first thought were so entertaining and yummy, especially when she ties him up🤤👌(spoiler: he was not put off in the least).
I LOVED Clementine! What she goes through with her powers and the isolation and overwhelm (I often found it comparable to sensory processing disorder difficulties) is SO relatable (again, something Abigail does so well). Clementine is like… crazy powerful too, like scary X-men style powers, but these powers have isolated her most of her life, minus her parents and sister. She is trying to be more independent, live her own life separate from her sister, something also so relatable as we all try to define ourselves as we grow, and takes this job live on this isolated cove in hopes of meeting and having dialogue with the mer-people, and boy did she get what she asked for and then some with our boy Emory. Bro doesn’t know the meaning of the word “quit” (in a non creepy, very consentual way). I loved watching this two meet, learn each other, and fight for each other as they grow together through the book. Plus of course the SPICE 👌👌👌😙 fantastic! Merman can get it, yes her mer-can.🥵
December 10, 2025
I adored Emory and Clementine with every ounce of my being. Emory was intense, possessive, mischievous, and wild. His stalking and insistence that Clementine was his mate were strangely sweet, because he genuinely didn’t intend anything but the best for her. Clementine was powerful, sweet, and brave. They both were isolated by necessity but were able to be there for each other and buoy one another. I liked that Clementine wasn’t helpless, but was actually stronger than Emory because of her magic. It was a beautiful story of connection.
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: Thalassophobia, childhood isolation, sibling codependency, past near drowning as child, parental distrust of the government, loss of parents (past), stalking, home invasion, virginity, bondage, breeding, violence, mentions of murder, attempted kidnapping and threat of SA by side character, mind reading, hunting for food (vague), pregnancy (off page, epilogue)
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: Thalassophobia, childhood isolation, sibling codependency, past near drowning as child, parental distrust of the government, loss of parents (past), stalking, home invasion, virginity, bondage, breeding, violence, mentions of murder, attempted kidnapping and threat of SA by side character, mind reading, hunting for food (vague), pregnancy (off page, epilogue)
February 24, 2024
This book is whimsical and weird in a good way. You may never see orcas the same. The male main character’s own sister in law describes him as “barely house trained,” and one of my favorite lines is
“It seemed impossible, but Emory was beginning to believe that his mate had no intention of trying to kill him.”
It’s a fun story of cross cultural communication, neurodivergence, and friendship bracelets. And caution. It isn’t my favorite of Kelly’s books, partly because it is ancillary to some of her macro story lines and the characters don’t grab me emotionally as much as some others but it is excellently imagined, well written, and charming like all of her work.
You will enjoy the epilogue more if you read Kohl, but it’s not necessary.
“You are my mate. I am yours. We will be mates even when the Hungry God pulls our souls into the deep, Clementine. I will accept nothing less than forever with you.”
“It seemed impossible, but Emory was beginning to believe that his mate had no intention of trying to kill him.”
It’s a fun story of cross cultural communication, neurodivergence, and friendship bracelets. And caution. It isn’t my favorite of Kelly’s books, partly because it is ancillary to some of her macro story lines and the characters don’t grab me emotionally as much as some others but it is excellently imagined, well written, and charming like all of her work.
You will enjoy the epilogue more if you read Kohl, but it’s not necessary.
“You are my mate. I am yours. We will be mates even when the Hungry God pulls our souls into the deep, Clementine. I will accept nothing less than forever with you.”
February 16, 2024
I will never not love a book written in this world I swear!! After reading Kohl, I needed this story more than anything (I think I would recommend reading Kohl first even though they happen at the same time) and it was just as sweet as I thought. Even with it being a novella, I loved the slow burn and the “friends” to lovers. Emory and Clementine balance each other so well and I would highly recommend for anyone looking for a light, bingeable read about a sweet, introverted witch and her stalking merman
Thank you so much to the author for allowing me to have an arc 🥰
Thank you so much to the author for allowing me to have an arc 🥰
March 12, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
I enjoyed this one!
Clementine is a witch who has a hard time being around people because of her powers and feeling their energies. Emory is a merman who is kind of a loner and wants her as a mate.
The beginning was a bit weird because he’s kind of stalking her, but she’s really never bothered by it. The merpeople were very predator like and I kept wondering if their life would be hard or isolating if they always had to watch out for danger.
But the hero was earnest in his love and they were cute together! He learned about her and vice versa. I think certain things could’ve gone into a little more depth, but I liked them as a couple!
One thing I couldn’t really imagine was him dragging himself around on land and in her house?
But I was happy that Clementine didn’t have to feel so alone anymore and her and Emory were good together. The end was cute too and I liked seeing her sister from the novella!
I enjoyed this one!
Clementine is a witch who has a hard time being around people because of her powers and feeling their energies. Emory is a merman who is kind of a loner and wants her as a mate.
The beginning was a bit weird because he’s kind of stalking her, but she’s really never bothered by it. The merpeople were very predator like and I kept wondering if their life would be hard or isolating if they always had to watch out for danger.
But the hero was earnest in his love and they were cute together! He learned about her and vice versa. I think certain things could’ve gone into a little more depth, but I liked them as a couple!
One thing I couldn’t really imagine was him dragging himself around on land and in her house?
But I was happy that Clementine didn’t have to feel so alone anymore and her and Emory were good together. The end was cute too and I liked seeing her sister from the novella!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2024
Clementine Ortega was being hunted.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
*ARC review*
This story starts like a thriller.
We have a girl - Clementine, powerful telepath - who hired to be an ambassador on a deserted island. Ambassador whose job is to establish the relationship between Elvish protectorate (hello Teddy) and merfolk.
Where is the thriller? Clementine is alone, she feels that someone is looking at her from the waters, this someone grabbed her scarf from the ocean surface and stole her favorite mug left near moon pool. The cherry on the top? Shark tooth replaced her mug and there is the webbed handprint still visible.
In my head everything in this story is just kinda scary and atmospheric (at least at the very beginning of the book). Maybe because i’m not so scared and concerned about unknowns on land and in the space, but water? Water is different. This element is such a powerful force and an enormous place full of dangers and beauties which will destroy you in a matter of seconds.
Emory is a man who was taught that there is nothing in the ocean or on land more worth coveting than a mate and he is planning to make his move soon.
I’m not a monster romance lover who encountered alot of creatures from the depths of the waters, and it’s making me nervous that I have no defined patterns of behavior in romance in my head; and as a result it set the feeling of uncertainty and unease in my mind. It’s both amazing and thrilling, that even during calm flirty scenes i was slightly overwhelmed with such a big variety of emotions.
Abigail gave me new feelings and experience and I’m thankful for that.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
*ARC review*
This story starts like a thriller.
We have a girl - Clementine, powerful telepath - who hired to be an ambassador on a deserted island. Ambassador whose job is to establish the relationship between Elvish protectorate (hello Teddy) and merfolk.
Where is the thriller? Clementine is alone, she feels that someone is looking at her from the waters, this someone grabbed her scarf from the ocean surface and stole her favorite mug left near moon pool. The cherry on the top? Shark tooth replaced her mug and there is the webbed handprint still visible.
In my head everything in this story is just kinda scary and atmospheric (at least at the very beginning of the book). Maybe because i’m not so scared and concerned about unknowns on land and in the space, but water? Water is different. This element is such a powerful force and an enormous place full of dangers and beauties which will destroy you in a matter of seconds.
Emory is a man who was taught that there is nothing in the ocean or on land more worth coveting than a mate and he is planning to make his move soon.
I’m not a monster romance lover who encountered alot of creatures from the depths of the waters, and it’s making me nervous that I have no defined patterns of behavior in romance in my head; and as a result it set the feeling of uncertainty and unease in my mind. It’s both amazing and thrilling, that even during calm flirty scenes i was slightly overwhelmed with such a big variety of emotions.
Abigail gave me new feelings and experience and I’m thankful for that.
February 28, 2024
I am always ready for a new edition to the NPU, and this is another tale of fierce mates, intriguing worlds colliding and steamy romance that i love reading about so much.
This time we get Clementine; a witch with incredible psychic powers (ones so strong she needs to live a life of seclusion) and Emory a Merman, who lives in his cove, and spends his time hunting, collecting and trading ocean goods with humans.
Both living alone until Clementine moves onto his island...and she is soft, and colorful...and his.
This book takes soft souls looking for love, mixed it with touch her and die and slapped a little breeding/rope play in there to make a sweet and sexy story
This could be read as a standalone but I find it's best enjoyed along with the other stories from this world.
I received an advanced copy of this to read but all opinions are my own.
This time we get Clementine; a witch with incredible psychic powers (ones so strong she needs to live a life of seclusion) and Emory a Merman, who lives in his cove, and spends his time hunting, collecting and trading ocean goods with humans.
Both living alone until Clementine moves onto his island...and she is soft, and colorful...and his.
This book takes soft souls looking for love, mixed it with touch her and die and slapped a little breeding/rope play in there to make a sweet and sexy story
This could be read as a standalone but I find it's best enjoyed along with the other stories from this world.
I received an advanced copy of this to read but all opinions are my own.
February 27, 2024
i swear every book abigail kelly puts out makes me feral. you NEED to read this book… and the WHOLE NPU series!! now this book is kind of spoilery for Khol since nelly and clemmy are sisters but if you don’t care then go for it.
emory and clementine are one of the cutest couples in the NPU, i might be biased lol. it’s common for me to find myself in the FMCs abigail writes but this one… lord it really hit me hard. emory is a feral merman who sees and gets what he wants—he literally was like yeah i’m making this happen, no manifesting and hoping for me.
abigail kelly is one of my auto buy authors and for a good reason. literally read this series, it’s wonderfully unique and you will not regret it one bit! abigail continues to world build phenomenally.
emory and clementine are one of the cutest couples in the NPU, i might be biased lol. it’s common for me to find myself in the FMCs abigail writes but this one… lord it really hit me hard. emory is a feral merman who sees and gets what he wants—he literally was like yeah i’m making this happen, no manifesting and hoping for me.
abigail kelly is one of my auto buy authors and for a good reason. literally read this series, it’s wonderfully unique and you will not regret it one bit! abigail continues to world build phenomenally.
February 27, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
I always love getting to head back into the world of the NPU. I was especially excited for this one after getting snippets of Clementine and Emory in Kohl. Kelly has created a wonderful world, so it was fun to get more info as we were introduced to the underwater residents of the world. Clem and Emory were so cute and wonderful to watch as they learned each other. This book felt cozy with the perfect amount of peril thrown in. Also there were some snippets in this book that have me hopeful for some new stories in the NPU! Had a great time reading this book and would 10/10 recommend!
I always love getting to head back into the world of the NPU. I was especially excited for this one after getting snippets of Clementine and Emory in Kohl. Kelly has created a wonderful world, so it was fun to get more info as we were introduced to the underwater residents of the world. Clem and Emory were so cute and wonderful to watch as they learned each other. This book felt cozy with the perfect amount of peril thrown in. Also there were some snippets in this book that have me hopeful for some new stories in the NPU! Had a great time reading this book and would 10/10 recommend!
March 1, 2024
Not your little mermaid merman. Think dark and dangerous creature from the deep. Abigail Kelly's monstrous merman is a predator that falls hard and falls deep for a sweet, sheltered but powerful witch. Another engaging and steamy novella in the New Protectorate world that is a delight for the imagination.
March 1, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyable addition to the Elvish Protectorate series. Clementine and Emory are very sweet together and the story adds another fun element to the world being built in the series. The beginning of the story with the miscommunication about the gifts was fun but the relationship is pretty smooth from there leaving me wanting a bit more angst or obstacles to keep the plot going.
December 23, 2025
4.5 stars! What a lovely read! I really liked how the author introduced a new species and how interesting their mating was. I couldn’t put the book down!! The MMC, Emory, was a merman who instantly got obsessed with our FMC, a lovely witch named Clementine.
I liked how sweet Clem was and how protective and possessive Emory acted. Their bond and chemistry felt genuine.
As it’s a short story there wasn’t that much of angst nor development but I didn’t find the story lacking in any sense. It just felt right.
The story follows a shy witch who moves to an island alone and is stalked by the MMC through the water. He observes her and starts leaving her sweet courting gifts . They meet and the chemistry is off the charts.
What to expect
No ow/om drama —> FMC is a virgin. MMC is not but his past is not detailed nor there is mention of ow names.
Possessive and protective MMC
Shy and sweet FMC
Dual pov
HEA
I liked how sweet Clem was and how protective and possessive Emory acted. Their bond and chemistry felt genuine.
As it’s a short story there wasn’t that much of angst nor development but I didn’t find the story lacking in any sense. It just felt right.
The story follows a shy witch who moves to an island alone and is stalked by the MMC through the water. He observes her and starts leaving her sweet courting gifts . They meet and the chemistry is off the charts.
What to expect
No ow/om drama —> FMC is a virgin. MMC is not but his past is not detailed nor there is mention of ow names.
Possessive and protective MMC
Shy and sweet FMC
Dual pov
HEA
February 29, 2024
i have a feeling Clementine's favorite movie is The Shape of Water 🤪🤪
October 10, 2024
DNF. I don’t even know why I try with monster romance - NOT for me
October 13, 2024
A bit too insta for me. It opens up with the H already thinking the h is his mate and the h sort of goes along. In a way, it felt they were together because they were lonely.
December 25, 2025
This was a fun one!
April 6, 2024
I've enjoyed this alternative history world that this author's created. It's fun to read about a geography I'm familiar with... but add magic and magical beings.
This is insta-mate but not insta-love. Basically, this dude spies a new woman in his territory and decides she's his.
Both main characters are lonely and up for being with someone who wants them. I definitely liked Clementine more than Emory. He was super jealous and possessive and didn't use his words, especially in the beginning.
He also has slept around a LOT cause it's "cultural". I don't get how you can have it be super cultural to sleep around when potential mates are so scarce. It just feels gross to me.
Clementine is a virgin and hasn't even had a friend (outside of her sister) before so it kinda felt unbalanced.
Still a cute story for lovers of this world.
This is insta-mate but not insta-love. Basically, this dude spies a new woman in his territory and decides she's his.
Both main characters are lonely and up for being with someone who wants them. I definitely liked Clementine more than Emory. He was super jealous and possessive and didn't use his words, especially in the beginning.
He also has slept around a LOT cause it's "cultural". I don't get how you can have it be super cultural to sleep around when potential mates are so scarce. It just feels gross to me.
Clementine is a virgin and hasn't even had a friend (outside of her sister) before so it kinda felt unbalanced.
Still a cute story for lovers of this world.
December 15, 2025
The setting was beautiful so I really wanted to enjoy this more than I did. Unfortunately, this MMC was not for me. I had a hard time picturing how he was getting around outside of the water with this huge tail based on the descriptions. I presume it weighs a ton if it has any similarity to an orca and yet he was able to maneuver around her home, get on top of her without crushing her, etc. I also found him incredibly creepy. Before he meets her he keeps thinking about forcing himself on her and this is not even because he has recognized a fated mate or found something about her specifically attractive, but rather because she just conveniently happens to be near his home.
November 2, 2024
i thought this was going to be a dark, atmospheric book about living alone in a mysterious island where sea creatures abduct humans to be their m*te. and that would be okay! except
my brain can't stop imagining the mmc dragging himself and his heavy ass tail around the fmc's house. like is he just flopping around 😭😭😭
i tried, but this isn't for me. 2.5 stars
my brain can't stop imagining the mmc dragging himself and his heavy ass tail around the fmc's house. like is he just flopping around 😭😭😭
i tried, but this isn't for me. 2.5 stars
October 13, 2025
Book Name/Series: Faraway (New Protectorate: Volume 5)
Author: Abigail Kelly
Standalone?: Can be read as a standalone, but includes characters from other books.
4 Stars
My Opinion: This was a wonderfully short romance between two lonely souls who turn out to be exactly what the other needs. I found myself genuinely enjoying it, even if it did feel like it was maybe a tad too short.
The writing was engaging and descriptive and it drew me in to both the emotional aspects of the story as well as the imagery and physical landscapes. The main characters were both likeable, and the story flowed with minimal outside drama or relationship angst. I really appreciated that choice as it kept the focus purely on Emory and Clementine’s connection. Still, I do wish we had seen a bit more of the relationship building stage.
Overall, this was a tender, low-drama romance that focuses on connection and healing, so I would definitely suggest giving it a chance if that’s something you’re in the mood for.
Hero: 5/5. Emory, a merman, immediately recognises Clementine as his mate and begins *lightly* stalking her to learn about her so that he can win her over. He was the perfect mix of determination and tenderness, and he was honestly adorable with his breaking into her house to learn about her and his leaving of gifts. He was also patient, protective, possessive, and completely devoted to her happiness, all the while respecting her boundaries when she for example wasn’t ready to have sex right away, even while ready and longing to basically get her pregnant the second they officially meet.
Heroine: 4/5. Clementine, a powerful telepathic witch, has spent her life with the constant noise of other people in her head. In her search for peace, she takes a job on an isolated island as a liaison between the government and the resident mermen pod. Meeting Emory was a revelation for her, because he’s the first person she’s met that brings peace to her mind. Clementine is soft, quiet, and could be a bit unsure of herself in certain situations. She was also intensely lonely. She absolutely deserved someone who was crazy about her after a lifetime of isolation and not really having anyone besides her sister.
POV: 3rd person POV (Clementine and Emory).
Push/Pull:
Sadness: 1/5.
Explicit Sex and Spice Level: Yes. 3/5.
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) Drama: No.
Separation:
Cheating: No.
Closure/Ending: HEA.
Possible Triggers:
Author: Abigail Kelly
Standalone?: Can be read as a standalone, but includes characters from other books.
4 Stars
My Opinion: This was a wonderfully short romance between two lonely souls who turn out to be exactly what the other needs. I found myself genuinely enjoying it, even if it did feel like it was maybe a tad too short.
The writing was engaging and descriptive and it drew me in to both the emotional aspects of the story as well as the imagery and physical landscapes. The main characters were both likeable, and the story flowed with minimal outside drama or relationship angst. I really appreciated that choice as it kept the focus purely on Emory and Clementine’s connection. Still, I do wish we had seen a bit more of the relationship building stage.
Overall, this was a tender, low-drama romance that focuses on connection and healing, so I would definitely suggest giving it a chance if that’s something you’re in the mood for.
Hero: 5/5. Emory, a merman, immediately recognises Clementine as his mate and begins *lightly* stalking her to learn about her so that he can win her over. He was the perfect mix of determination and tenderness, and he was honestly adorable with his breaking into her house to learn about her and his leaving of gifts. He was also patient, protective, possessive, and completely devoted to her happiness, all the while respecting her boundaries when she for example wasn’t ready to have sex right away, even while ready and longing to basically get her pregnant the second they officially meet.
Heroine: 4/5. Clementine, a powerful telepathic witch, has spent her life with the constant noise of other people in her head. In her search for peace, she takes a job on an isolated island as a liaison between the government and the resident mermen pod. Meeting Emory was a revelation for her, because he’s the first person she’s met that brings peace to her mind. Clementine is soft, quiet, and could be a bit unsure of herself in certain situations. She was also intensely lonely. She absolutely deserved someone who was crazy about her after a lifetime of isolation and not really having anyone besides her sister.
POV: 3rd person POV (Clementine and Emory).
Push/Pull:
Sadness: 1/5.
Explicit Sex and Spice Level: Yes. 3/5.
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) Drama: No.
Separation:
Cheating: No.
Closure/Ending: HEA.
Possible Triggers:
March 17, 2024
Kind of 3.5 stars, but I'll push it to 4.
I loved the writing. I loved the imagination and how well-thought out the world was.
What I didn't love was the FMC, but then again I didn't *hate* her, so it's fine I guess.
It just became a bit annoying when I realised she used the word 'weenie' a lot.
Too much.
(No, the last two wasn't me accidentally repeating them. It was two separate instances.)
((Oh my god, I am tired of authors giving their FMC weird names they think are unique and 'quirky'. Clementine, really? Just this week I've had to contest with others called Tryst, Starling, and now... Clementine. What's next? Broom, Television and Guinea Pig?))
I understand she was more than capable of defending herself, but sometimes her lack of danger awareness was beyond frustrating.
The merfolk are dangerous. Everyone told her so. They have killed humans before. Her boss told not to leave the pool inside her house open. There's an international law that makes it illegal to get in the water after dark.
But what does Citrus Fruit do? Ignores all the warnings, is dying to befriend them, leaves the pool inside her home open, and dips her feet in the water at night.
Because all her life she's followed her rules and she wanted to rebelllll
Oh my god. I understand she is supposed to be a naive person that grew up sheltered or something... But it's not nice to read such a stupid female protagonist. If you want to rebel, go draw a graffiti or something. Don't put your life in danger.
But it's fine. She's the protagonist so of course nothing happens to her. Us non-protagonists would have probably been pulled down in the water and mauled to death by an angry and territorial merman. No biggie.
Anyways.
Writing and world-building: beautiful.
Protagonist: not so much.
Now I'm off to search a shopping catalogue for ideas on my future children's names.
I loved the writing. I loved the imagination and how well-thought out the world was.
What I didn't love was the FMC, but then again I didn't *hate* her, so it's fine I guess.
It just became a bit annoying when I realised she used the word 'weenie' a lot.
Too much.
A weenie move if I ever saw one.
Clementine was no weenie.
Don't be a weenie, Clementine.
I won't be a weenie this time, she told herself firmly.
Don't be a weenie!
Don't be a weenie.
Don't be a weenie, Em.
Don't be a weenie, Em.
(No, the last two wasn't me accidentally repeating them. It was two separate instances.)
((Oh my god, I am tired of authors giving their FMC weird names they think are unique and 'quirky'. Clementine, really? Just this week I've had to contest with others called Tryst, Starling, and now... Clementine. What's next? Broom, Television and Guinea Pig?))
I understand she was more than capable of defending herself, but sometimes her lack of danger awareness was beyond frustrating.
The merfolk are dangerous. Everyone told her so. They have killed humans before. Her boss told not to leave the pool inside her house open. There's an international law that makes it illegal to get in the water after dark.
But what does Citrus Fruit do? Ignores all the warnings, is dying to befriend them, leaves the pool inside her home open, and dips her feet in the water at night.
Because all her life she's followed her rules and she wanted to rebelllll
Oh my god. I understand she is supposed to be a naive person that grew up sheltered or something... But it's not nice to read such a stupid female protagonist. If you want to rebel, go draw a graffiti or something. Don't put your life in danger.
But it's fine. She's the protagonist so of course nothing happens to her. Us non-protagonists would have probably been pulled down in the water and mauled to death by an angry and territorial merman. No biggie.
Anyways.
Writing and world-building: beautiful.
Protagonist: not so much.
Now I'm off to search a shopping catalogue for ideas on my future children's names.
May 28, 2024
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Clementine 🫶 Emory
A loner merman falls in love with a gloriana witch!
This was such an interesting love story!
Basically Clementine moves to an isolated island where she’s been warned that hostile merfolk live near by. Emory who has staked a claim on the island that Clementine has been stationed at is initially angered by her intrusion, but when curiosity makes him seek out the new inhabitant he immediately decides to make her his mate.
Clementine is completely unaware of Emory’s intentions and thinks she has a merfolk neighbor, who leaves her sweet gifts and wants to make friends. A powerful witch, and so unaccustomed to being in her own, Clementine is unabashedly excited at the prospect of meeting someone on the island. She gets more than she bargained for when Emory makes his presence known after a slight misunderstanding.
***
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, I don’t think I’ve read any merfolk monster romances before so this was such a delight!
Emory was such a sweet patient partner to adorably inexperienced Clementine. Her lack of realization that he wanted to claim her as a mate was hilarious! She was over here thinking she was making friends lol 😩
Emory thinking she ran away when she went on a supply run was such a good moment! That whole first interaction between them was riveting. His confusion at her smiling at him had me dying 😂. The entire aftermath was equally as funny and steamy 🔥
***
Overall, great story, I really love this author’s writing style and the way their MMCs are always hard core pining for their FMCs is to die for 🥹🫶
Clementine 🫶 Emory
A loner merman falls in love with a gloriana witch!
This was such an interesting love story!
Basically Clementine moves to an isolated island where she’s been warned that hostile merfolk live near by. Emory who has staked a claim on the island that Clementine has been stationed at is initially angered by her intrusion, but when curiosity makes him seek out the new inhabitant he immediately decides to make her his mate.
Clementine is completely unaware of Emory’s intentions and thinks she has a merfolk neighbor, who leaves her sweet gifts and wants to make friends. A powerful witch, and so unaccustomed to being in her own, Clementine is unabashedly excited at the prospect of meeting someone on the island. She gets more than she bargained for when Emory makes his presence known after a slight misunderstanding.
***
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, I don’t think I’ve read any merfolk monster romances before so this was such a delight!
Emory was such a sweet patient partner to adorably inexperienced Clementine. Her lack of realization that he wanted to claim her as a mate was hilarious! She was over here thinking she was making friends lol 😩
Emory thinking she ran away when she went on a supply run was such a good moment! That whole first interaction between them was riveting. His confusion at her smiling at him had me dying 😂. The entire aftermath was equally as funny and steamy 🔥
***
Overall, great story, I really love this author’s writing style and the way their MMCs are always hard core pining for their FMCs is to die for 🥹🫶
March 26, 2024
Emory & Clementine: Instalove at Its Finest! 5 Stars!
FARAWAY, another installment of The New Protectorate Series was amazing! I loved it from start to finish.
Time for another Quickie Review! Let's talk about FAR AWAY by Abigail Kelly
FARAWAY, another installment of The New Protectorate Series was amazing! I loved it from start to finish.
Clementine Ortega, the sister of Nelly (whom we met in KOHL by Kelly) takes center stage in this novel as an agent of the EVP (Elven Protectorate) sent to live on an island cove with the assignment to make contact with the merfolk inhabitants of the sea and forge a working relationship with them for the sake of a treaty between the two.
Adjusting to life without her sister, who was recently mated, Clementine lives in isolation but longs for a connection. Little does she know, she has an admirer in the watchful eye of a merman named Emory, who declares that she is his Mate.
Readers who enjoy instalove will simply adore this novel. It was such a smooth read with very little drama and angst between the two main characters. Clementine and Emory have lots of smexy moments and you will you swoon and fall along with them into a satisfying HEA that will make your heart sing!
I fell in love with Abigail Kelly's EMPIRE and have enjoyed all of her novels since. The Protectorate Series remains one of my favorite series to date.
I recommend not only FARAWAY but all of the books in the series.
Happy reading!
FARAWAY, another installment of The New Protectorate Series was amazing! I loved it from start to finish.
Time for another Quickie Review! Let's talk about FAR AWAY by Abigail Kelly
FARAWAY, another installment of The New Protectorate Series was amazing! I loved it from start to finish.
Clementine Ortega, the sister of Nelly (whom we met in KOHL by Kelly) takes center stage in this novel as an agent of the EVP (Elven Protectorate) sent to live on an island cove with the assignment to make contact with the merfolk inhabitants of the sea and forge a working relationship with them for the sake of a treaty between the two.
Adjusting to life without her sister, who was recently mated, Clementine lives in isolation but longs for a connection. Little does she know, she has an admirer in the watchful eye of a merman named Emory, who declares that she is his Mate.
Readers who enjoy instalove will simply adore this novel. It was such a smooth read with very little drama and angst between the two main characters. Clementine and Emory have lots of smexy moments and you will you swoon and fall along with them into a satisfying HEA that will make your heart sing!
I fell in love with Abigail Kelly's EMPIRE and have enjoyed all of her novels since. The Protectorate Series remains one of my favorite series to date.
I recommend not only FARAWAY but all of the books in the series.
Happy reading!
February 27, 2024
The sexy and sweet monster stalker romance you need in your life 🥵 a little perilous, much coziness
The little mating gifts, the rope, the way they grew together and learned about each other together 🥹 Emory and Clementine are absolutely precious and I love them so much. I could read many books of their island adventures and also Emory trying even more fun land foods !!
I am ALL FOR this new foray into the depths of the NPU. Adding all the friendly mers we met to my list of books I absolutely need Abigail to write 👀
The little mating gifts, the rope, the way they grew together and learned about each other together 🥹 Emory and Clementine are absolutely precious and I love them so much. I could read many books of their island adventures and also Emory trying even more fun land foods !!
I am ALL FOR this new foray into the depths of the NPU. Adding all the friendly mers we met to my list of books I absolutely need Abigail to write 👀
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