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Under a Violet Moon
My mother gave birth to me in a storm, caught in an unforgiving riptide…
The sea is as brutal as it is beautiful, and it has always called to Cealene. As the heiress of Aqualasia Islands, she’s surrounded by the crashing waves and the smell of salt, but her duties to her people, court, and monthly full moon celebrations keep her from the water. Until the night Ezera, a boy from her past, needs help saving his father at the docks and Cealene sneaks out of the celebration to find that her world is not what it seems.
The sea is calling to me…The instinct to dive into the black waters overwhelms me…
Drawn into the sea under the full moon, Cealene’s true identity is finally revealed—she’s a mermaid. After meeting Calypso, her formidable ancestor, Cealene learns that the mythic world of the merfolk is real—and their history with land dwellers is violent, bloody, and cursed. Hexed with infertility for nearly a century, Cealene is their only chance at salvation. But at what price?
I belong to the sea…so vast and ever-changing…my body has come alive…
Caught between two worlds, each filled with romance, treachery and hatred, Cealene only has until the next full moon to decide which life she wants to live. Will she embrace her fate and continue to live in the sea where she yearns to be or will she go back to her life at the palace and fulfill her duty to her people?
If the price of breaking the curse costs more than she’s willing to bargain, she might not have a decision to make after all.
The sea is as brutal as it is beautiful, and it has always called to Cealene. As the heiress of Aqualasia Islands, she’s surrounded by the crashing waves and the smell of salt, but her duties to her people, court, and monthly full moon celebrations keep her from the water. Until the night Ezera, a boy from her past, needs help saving his father at the docks and Cealene sneaks out of the celebration to find that her world is not what it seems.
The sea is calling to me…The instinct to dive into the black waters overwhelms me…
Drawn into the sea under the full moon, Cealene’s true identity is finally revealed—she’s a mermaid. After meeting Calypso, her formidable ancestor, Cealene learns that the mythic world of the merfolk is real—and their history with land dwellers is violent, bloody, and cursed. Hexed with infertility for nearly a century, Cealene is their only chance at salvation. But at what price?
I belong to the sea…so vast and ever-changing…my body has come alive…
Caught between two worlds, each filled with romance, treachery and hatred, Cealene only has until the next full moon to decide which life she wants to live. Will she embrace her fate and continue to live in the sea where she yearns to be or will she go back to her life at the palace and fulfill her duty to her people?
If the price of breaking the curse costs more than she’s willing to bargain, she might not have a decision to make after all.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2024
24 people are currently reading
347 people want to read
About the author
Tara N. Gabrys
5 books81 followersTara N Gabrys is a romantic fantasy author who gravitates toward retellings with a hint of spice. She is represented by Josi Beck at Beck Literary Agency.
If you love immersive stories, lyrical writing, and books that feel like dark fairytales, you’re in the right place.
She was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, and graduated from Elmhurst University. She was raised with a passion for telling story through dance all the way into her adulthood. She has since found that telling story through writing is much like a dance of words.
She is most happy when surrounded by nature or near the sea. Her published works are UNDER A VIOLET MOON, THE FALL OF SNOW (Book 1 in the Guard Your Heart Duology, and THE SIREN AND THE GUARDIAN with more to come.
In her downtime, if she isn’t ravenously reading, she is spending time with her husband, children, and chocolate lab.
If you love immersive stories, lyrical writing, and books that feel like dark fairytales, you’re in the right place.
She was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, and graduated from Elmhurst University. She was raised with a passion for telling story through dance all the way into her adulthood. She has since found that telling story through writing is much like a dance of words.
She is most happy when surrounded by nature or near the sea. Her published works are UNDER A VIOLET MOON, THE FALL OF SNOW (Book 1 in the Guard Your Heart Duology, and THE SIREN AND THE GUARDIAN with more to come.
In her downtime, if she isn’t ravenously reading, she is spending time with her husband, children, and chocolate lab.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 8, 2024
Cealene discovers a well-kept secret that changes her life. After diving into the sea on the night of the full moon, she transforms into a mermaid and embarks on a journey to change the fate of mermaids forever. Having been cursed and infertile for a century, Cealene discovers she could be the missing piece that lifts the curse on the mermaids. Torn between her life on land and her heart calling her to the sea, she must decide which life she wants to live.
It was nice to read a book about mermaids that was not all about beauty. Mermaids are fierce creatures and Tara Gabrys gives us exactly that in UAVM, making you wish you were also a secret mermaid destined to live in the sea.
It was nice to read a book about mermaids that was not all about beauty. Mermaids are fierce creatures and Tara Gabrys gives us exactly that in UAVM, making you wish you were also a secret mermaid destined to live in the sea.
June 14, 2024
Oh what a beautiful, stunning novel. My heart is full. Filled with adventure, the ocean, far away lands and mermaids. I was in this book. Literally in it.
Cealine is a princess, next in line to be queen and rule the lands... but she also has a desperate desire to be free. She loves the sea and one night, she learns she is a mermaid. This takes her on an almighty adventure. Learning the history of two worlds, both connected to her. Understanding her own strength. Solving tragic mysteries. Attempting to break a curse. Meeting new friends. Falling in love. And most importantly, deciding whether she'll live in the sea, or live in the land... can she possibly have both?
This is a masterpiece in the world of fantasy. So beautifully written. It keeps you turning pages, wondering what will happen next, wanting to learn more, questioning who you can trust. It's so full of emotion and even when you're not learning something new, you're simply feeling the world of the book. The beauty of the sea, of the castle, of the night sky. You're like a secret creature yourself, not just reading this book, but watching it play out from afar.
If its going to make you cry, it'll make you cry from just existing and then having the audacity to end! It ended!!! I could have read so much more, and I would have done if it were twice as long. But this story was perfect as it was. If you're looking for your next fantasy, your next fairytale, your next adventure into the unknown... make it this book.
Easy five stars.
Cealine is a princess, next in line to be queen and rule the lands... but she also has a desperate desire to be free. She loves the sea and one night, she learns she is a mermaid. This takes her on an almighty adventure. Learning the history of two worlds, both connected to her. Understanding her own strength. Solving tragic mysteries. Attempting to break a curse. Meeting new friends. Falling in love. And most importantly, deciding whether she'll live in the sea, or live in the land... can she possibly have both?
This is a masterpiece in the world of fantasy. So beautifully written. It keeps you turning pages, wondering what will happen next, wanting to learn more, questioning who you can trust. It's so full of emotion and even when you're not learning something new, you're simply feeling the world of the book. The beauty of the sea, of the castle, of the night sky. You're like a secret creature yourself, not just reading this book, but watching it play out from afar.
If its going to make you cry, it'll make you cry from just existing and then having the audacity to end! It ended!!! I could have read so much more, and I would have done if it were twice as long. But this story was perfect as it was. If you're looking for your next fantasy, your next fairytale, your next adventure into the unknown... make it this book.
Easy five stars.
March 26, 2024
Who knew mermaids could be such bad-asses. Tara Gabrys gives us an intimate look into the fiercely beautiful world of mermaids. Beauty, independence, loyalty, and passion are what you can expect to find in this book.
July 19, 2024
My rating is 3.5 for this adventurous mermaid book!
To be frank, I would have enjoyed this book so much more if I hadn’t just finished binge reading the entire A Court of Thorns and Roses series.
Let’s be honest any book would have a hard time following up Sarah J Maas.
But anyways, I loved how Under A Violet Moon was written so descriptively. The author really made it easy to visualize and almost feel what it was like to be a mermaid.
I also loved that these weren’t your average Disney princess mermaids, they were cutthroat and cunning and that made them so much more interesting.
One issue I did have was just how quickly Cealene accepted her life as a mermaid. Within one page she turned into a creature she didn’t know existed and accepted it without even wondering if she was imagining it. I understand though, that this was only a novel and not a series, and sometimes there isn’t time to flush everything out in full detail.
Overall I really did enjoy this book and this world of mermaids and want to know more about them! I would definitely read a prequel about the sea wars if the author ever decides to revisit this world!
I think Tara N. Gabrys has so much potential and I can’t wait to read her take on Snow White in her next book!
To be frank, I would have enjoyed this book so much more if I hadn’t just finished binge reading the entire A Court of Thorns and Roses series.
Let’s be honest any book would have a hard time following up Sarah J Maas.
But anyways, I loved how Under A Violet Moon was written so descriptively. The author really made it easy to visualize and almost feel what it was like to be a mermaid.
I also loved that these weren’t your average Disney princess mermaids, they were cutthroat and cunning and that made them so much more interesting.
One issue I did have was just how quickly Cealene accepted her life as a mermaid. Within one page she turned into a creature she didn’t know existed and accepted it without even wondering if she was imagining it. I understand though, that this was only a novel and not a series, and sometimes there isn’t time to flush everything out in full detail.
Overall I really did enjoy this book and this world of mermaids and want to know more about them! I would definitely read a prequel about the sea wars if the author ever decides to revisit this world!
I think Tara N. Gabrys has so much potential and I can’t wait to read her take on Snow White in her next book!
June 25, 2024
This book reminded me why I love mermaids… ❤️ The ending picked up speed and I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen. Tara does an amazing job with storytelling and depicting sea life through her writing. I can’t wait to read her next book!
June 26, 2024
This book made me feel like I was finally living my childhood dream of becoming a mermaid! But it's not all stunning views and parties under the sea, it can be dark and often unforgiving. Tara Gabrys writes with such color and honesty, I truly felt one with the sea.
The heroine, Cealene, learns the truth of her past which leads to a choice that will forever change her future. This wild tale is full of so much more than the magic and wonder that lies below the surface.
This book has a little something for everyone: romance, twists, beauty, family ties, magic and sacrifice. Give it a read, you wont be disappointed!
The heroine, Cealene, learns the truth of her past which leads to a choice that will forever change her future. This wild tale is full of so much more than the magic and wonder that lies below the surface.
This book has a little something for everyone: romance, twists, beauty, family ties, magic and sacrifice. Give it a read, you wont be disappointed!
December 28, 2024
What is life!?
The plot twists, the tension, the banter, the baby sea cows 😭
This book is utter perfection. Such an easy read that is packed with love and violence and baby animals.
I’ve never read mermaid lore before, but this has me hooked!
Tara is a wordsmith and I look forward to many more books from her ❤️
The plot twists, the tension, the banter, the baby sea cows 😭
This book is utter perfection. Such an easy read that is packed with love and violence and baby animals.
I’ve never read mermaid lore before, but this has me hooked!
Tara is a wordsmith and I look forward to many more books from her ❤️
January 22, 2024
5 STARS: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌊ARC review🌊
when i was little, i was so intrigued by the water and the creatures that could potentially be hiding so deep below that we never knew whether they were truly there or not — like mermaids and sirens, those kinds of magical creatures. i always dreamed of being a mermaid, i would always pretend to be one when i went swimming, and even convinced myself once that i took an actual breath while underwater (what happened that day is still a mystery to me🤷🏻♀️). this book gave childhood me everything mermaid-like i ever wanted to be as a kid🥹
i love how the story was written, tara's writing style is the kind that makes you feel like you're experiencing the story, and that makes you want to keep turning the page, which is my favorite kind; i felt like i was right there alongside Cealene 🌊 i loved learning the lore and history of the mermaids, the way of mermaid life, and the different sides of under sea life, the good as well as the unforgiving aspects. i also adore how tara wrote the mermaids, strong, capable, and fierce creatures — definitely the kind of mermaid i would want to be✨️
this YA fantasy is magical, enchanting, and captivating✨️ The world of UAVM had me enthralled, and i didn't want to leave; i was so invested! this story has romance, secrets, fantasy, magic, sacrifice, and more - definitely give Tara's debut novel a chance 🫶🏼
🌊ARC review🌊
when i was little, i was so intrigued by the water and the creatures that could potentially be hiding so deep below that we never knew whether they were truly there or not — like mermaids and sirens, those kinds of magical creatures. i always dreamed of being a mermaid, i would always pretend to be one when i went swimming, and even convinced myself once that i took an actual breath while underwater (what happened that day is still a mystery to me🤷🏻♀️). this book gave childhood me everything mermaid-like i ever wanted to be as a kid🥹
i love how the story was written, tara's writing style is the kind that makes you feel like you're experiencing the story, and that makes you want to keep turning the page, which is my favorite kind; i felt like i was right there alongside Cealene 🌊 i loved learning the lore and history of the mermaids, the way of mermaid life, and the different sides of under sea life, the good as well as the unforgiving aspects. i also adore how tara wrote the mermaids, strong, capable, and fierce creatures — definitely the kind of mermaid i would want to be✨️
this YA fantasy is magical, enchanting, and captivating✨️ The world of UAVM had me enthralled, and i didn't want to leave; i was so invested! this story has romance, secrets, fantasy, magic, sacrifice, and more - definitely give Tara's debut novel a chance 🫶🏼
March 19, 2024
Wow.
Just, wow.
This book was STUNNING from start to finish. A beautifully woven tail (GET IT? TAIL HAH!) of love, family, and self discovery.
Cealene is a phenomenal FMC. She is bright and curious and has this desperate desire to be free. It’s an extraordinary thing to see one be brave in ways that seem so small. She is beautiful and caring and she will be a wonderful queen one day.
The romance between Cealene and Ezera was so lovely. The slow burn had me squealing when they looked into each other’s eyes or his dimple popped through. And their first kiss?? When she pulled him in the water????? SWOON. Just so beautiful. A wholesome romance that also made me blush? LOVE.
The found family was perfect! Marina was such a faithful and kind friend to Cealene, and the end of her story made me tear up I won’t lie. It was so perfect! Brea (omg name twins ahhhh) was strong and fierce and such a natural leader. I also loved how sassy she was.
Calypso was such a compelling character. I guessed at her being the villain long before she was confirmed to be it, but that wasn’t a bad thing. She was complex, shown by her hatred and her desire for retribution. As soon as her sister said to look in those caves and Cealene found what she did I KNEW it was Calypso. I can always get behind a villain you both understand and hate!
Overall, this was a perfect debut! Tara has a natural way with words and she really transports you. It’s vivid and natural and flows beautifully.
I highly recommend this book to those who like fantasy, sweet romance, found family, ancient curses, and—of course—mermaids!
Just, wow.
This book was STUNNING from start to finish. A beautifully woven tail (GET IT? TAIL HAH!) of love, family, and self discovery.
Cealene is a phenomenal FMC. She is bright and curious and has this desperate desire to be free. It’s an extraordinary thing to see one be brave in ways that seem so small. She is beautiful and caring and she will be a wonderful queen one day.
The romance between Cealene and Ezera was so lovely. The slow burn had me squealing when they looked into each other’s eyes or his dimple popped through. And their first kiss?? When she pulled him in the water????? SWOON. Just so beautiful. A wholesome romance that also made me blush? LOVE.
The found family was perfect! Marina was such a faithful and kind friend to Cealene, and the end of her story made me tear up I won’t lie. It was so perfect! Brea (omg name twins ahhhh) was strong and fierce and such a natural leader. I also loved how sassy she was.
Calypso was such a compelling character. I guessed at her being the villain long before she was confirmed to be it, but that wasn’t a bad thing. She was complex, shown by her hatred and her desire for retribution. As soon as her sister said to look in those caves and Cealene found what she did I KNEW it was Calypso. I can always get behind a villain you both understand and hate!
Overall, this was a perfect debut! Tara has a natural way with words and she really transports you. It’s vivid and natural and flows beautifully.
I highly recommend this book to those who like fantasy, sweet romance, found family, ancient curses, and—of course—mermaids!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2024
Loveddd this book. Even if you are not a fiction fan or a fan of creatures, you will still be able to easily be engulfed by this book and story line. Along with a few unexpected twists! An easy read that will keep your
Pages turning!
Pages turning!
March 25, 2024
A great adventure through the sea with lots of twists and action. Cealene is a bold FMC who figures out a significant truth about her existence. Tara takes us through her journey as she learns the ropes of her new life and how to save her kind. Such a fun read!
March 24, 2024
Mermaids! Mermaids! And yes, mermaids!
I was so excited to read this book and I was definitely not disappointed.
This author describes the transition from human to mermaid so seamlessly I actually believed every word she wrote.
This story was actually so thrilling and action-packed I was gasping through so many pages. I loved all of the twists and turns throughout this book.
As somebody who has their foot in the mermaid community and in the book community this was a gem and it will stay on my bookshelf cherished and loved.
I'll be recommending it to all my mer friends now! 🧜🏻♀️
I was so excited to read this book and I was definitely not disappointed.
This author describes the transition from human to mermaid so seamlessly I actually believed every word she wrote.
This story was actually so thrilling and action-packed I was gasping through so many pages. I loved all of the twists and turns throughout this book.
As somebody who has their foot in the mermaid community and in the book community this was a gem and it will stay on my bookshelf cherished and loved.
I'll be recommending it to all my mer friends now! 🧜🏻♀️
March 24, 2024
When I was recommended to read this book I made sure to read it right away! The entire concept was so intriguing and just my type of book!
If you like mermaids, lost family, mystery, and extremely well written world building - this book is for you!
The author did a phenomenal job writing this book and I cannot wait to read her future novels!
This book follows Cealene as she has a shocking discovery that she is also a mermaid and a prophecy leads her to discover who she is, figure out a mystery, and also find the love of her life!
This fantasy book kept me intrigued the entire the time and I felt like I was part of the ocean when reading it! There’s so many wonderful parts to this book and I highly recommend everyone who loves mermaid stories to read this one!
If you like mermaids, lost family, mystery, and extremely well written world building - this book is for you!
The author did a phenomenal job writing this book and I cannot wait to read her future novels!
This book follows Cealene as she has a shocking discovery that she is also a mermaid and a prophecy leads her to discover who she is, figure out a mystery, and also find the love of her life!
This fantasy book kept me intrigued the entire the time and I felt like I was part of the ocean when reading it! There’s so many wonderful parts to this book and I highly recommend everyone who loves mermaid stories to read this one!
April 24, 2025
Good storyline and vivid imagery!!
Note to parents: I was told it was appropriate for a 14 year old, however I would disagree ... it contains a sexual reference and a mild sex scene.
Note to parents: I was told it was appropriate for a 14 year old, however I would disagree ... it contains a sexual reference and a mild sex scene.
December 17, 2024
Fantastic debut novel
I absolutely loved this novel. So full of magic and mermaids. Lies and intrigue and learning who you can trust when it feels like everyone around you has lied to you your whole life. And yet managing to find love and the wonder of the ocean. Definitely a magical debut novel to read
I absolutely loved this novel. So full of magic and mermaids. Lies and intrigue and learning who you can trust when it feels like everyone around you has lied to you your whole life. And yet managing to find love and the wonder of the ocean. Definitely a magical debut novel to read
February 21, 2025
Remnants of Little Mermaid but a story of its own. Quick, easy read with a good story and great characters.
February 27, 2024
Automatic 5 stars for being about mermaids! But seriously, this book was great! The writing was so descriptive and painted an incredible picture of the sea! It made me want to be a mermaid even more than I already do! It had so many moments where I was holding my breath waiting to see what was going to happen, and even had me getting choked up and getting emotional! Very well written and definitely worth the read!
August 23, 2024
Omg it is so much like melody and Ezra , damn bro lol I love it!
February 18, 2024
This debut novel was such a fun, fast-paced and fresh take on a classic fairy tale. I loved Cealene and her found family (esp. my girl, Marina), and thought the slow-burn ya romance very charming.
I can't wait to see what this author does next!
I can't wait to see what this author does next!
February 12, 2024
Such a good read! Tara’s writing is excellent and gets you hooked right away! I loved the ending!
May 25, 2024
Do you remember the days when you were younger, playing in a pool or the lake and all you wanted to do was be a mermaid? Well this book is going to bring back all those memories and remind you that yes, you still want to be a mermaid.
In Tara’s debut novel she creates a world of magic, adventure, and beautiful relationships of friendship and love. Cealene is a strong female character that shows strength in fighting for herself and the people she loves. We also get to see mermaids for not only their beauty, but their ability to be predators and have immense power. Prepare to be swept off your feet right into the water for an adventure with Cealene that will find her not only finding herself but breaking curses and solving a mystery!
If you ever watched H2O: Just Add Water, The Little Mermaid 2 or The Thirteenth Year and wanted to be a mermaid, then dive right into this book and live out your dreams!
In Tara’s debut novel she creates a world of magic, adventure, and beautiful relationships of friendship and love. Cealene is a strong female character that shows strength in fighting for herself and the people she loves. We also get to see mermaids for not only their beauty, but their ability to be predators and have immense power. Prepare to be swept off your feet right into the water for an adventure with Cealene that will find her not only finding herself but breaking curses and solving a mystery!
If you ever watched H2O: Just Add Water, The Little Mermaid 2 or The Thirteenth Year and wanted to be a mermaid, then dive right into this book and live out your dreams!
October 20, 2024
Interesting premise, flawed execution
tl;dr: When I picked this book up with my book club as one of our October reads, I was very interested in the story; it’s not often we see the main character as a mermaid in fantasy, and especially not one who *accidentally discovers* she’s a mermaid! And while I really enjoyed Cealene’s growth as a person, and the establishment of merfolk culture, a combination of story inconsistencies and typos dulled some of the shine. As I stated in my title: interesting premise, but a flawed execution.
Full review:
Cealene is an 18-year-old princess who, while sheltered by her life in the castle, truly loves her island and her people. She takes an interest in/is disturbed by a string of disappearances among young women when no one else in her court seems bothered by it. Sure, people go missing at sea all the time, but the way her concerns are just hand waved away told volumes about how disconnected the royalty and nobility are from the real world.
She also loves the sea, feels drawn to it so much so that she sleeps with her balcony doors open every night so she can smell the salty air and hear the crashing waves.
Every month, on the full moon, her family hosts a massive ball and welcomes foreign dignitaries into their home for dinner and drinks and dancing. Cealene has grown to hate these parties—as anyone honestly would after being forced to attend them and play along with all the usual courtly politics *every month* for their *entire lives.* They seem frivolous and excessive to her, but her attendance is mandatory, and she does her duty as a princess by obeying her parents and showing up, no matter how little she wants to.
The book opens with Cealene needing to get ready for one such party, then transitions into the party itself. Honestly, I enjoyed how well the author set the scene and showed the opulence without getting lost in all the minute details. She also did a very good job of showing how exhausting such a social event could be; it was easy to sympathize with Cealene’s hatred for them!
However, this book is about MERMAIDS! So after a series of events has Cealene escaping the party and helping a childhood friend save his father, she is so overwhelmed and shaken up that she decides to answer the endless call of the sea.
But when she jumps into the ocean on the night of the full moon, she transforms into a mermaid! She didn’t even know mermaids were REAL! But she is quickly accepted into the community that lives in the seas around her kingdom, and she finds that she feels more happy and more like herself than she ever has before. Suddenly her deep love of the ocean makes more sense.
She forms lovely bonds with other merfolk and learns about her people and their history, learns why humans think mermaids are creatures of mere myth and not a living, breathing, THRIVING species. She also learns about a curse placed upon mermaids—one that, apparently, only SHE can break.
But some of the story’s impact is lessened by a few issues with the writing. For instance, when she is learning about the history of her peoples, it is presented as something that happened a very, very long time ago. I got the impression that it was many hundreds of years, at least, since the Sea Wars—a bloody, brutal clashing of humans and merfolk—happened so long ago that it has passed out of human memory entirely. Merfolk have been reduced to creatures of legend, myth, and superstition; no human has any idea that they’re actually real.
However, as the story continues and the conflicts of the past—and the curse the mermaids suffer from—are mentioned again, it seems to be implied that it’s only been about a century? Which would not be anywhere close to long enough for humans to forget such a bloody conflict, or the existence of merfolk.
There are a number of other small inconsistencies, like the color of a plant changing from one paragraph to the next, and the general timeline is…wonky.
After only a day of living in the ocean, Cealene starts thinking of her life on land as if it has already been months. After a few days, she thinks of it as “so long ago.” She has only a month to prepare for the ritual that will break the curse, but the person she needs information from, Calypso, leaves for a week-long hunting trip. It’s specifically mentioned that Calypso has been gone only a few days—but then by the end of the chapter/scene, Cealene races back to the caves where the merfolk live because she desperately needs to talk to Calypso.
It’s like the author forgets certain details as she’s writing, and her revisions process was maybe too rushed to catch these inconsistencies. There are a number of typos, too, and they only seem to get worse as the book goes on. It feels like maybe there was a rush to meet a deadline and the last 1/4 or so of the book suffers for it.
Overall, great story! But I wish there had been more depth and attention to detail. This book could also easily have been twice as long—and would have benefitted from that, I think.
tl;dr: When I picked this book up with my book club as one of our October reads, I was very interested in the story; it’s not often we see the main character as a mermaid in fantasy, and especially not one who *accidentally discovers* she’s a mermaid! And while I really enjoyed Cealene’s growth as a person, and the establishment of merfolk culture, a combination of story inconsistencies and typos dulled some of the shine. As I stated in my title: interesting premise, but a flawed execution.
Full review:
Cealene is an 18-year-old princess who, while sheltered by her life in the castle, truly loves her island and her people. She takes an interest in/is disturbed by a string of disappearances among young women when no one else in her court seems bothered by it. Sure, people go missing at sea all the time, but the way her concerns are just hand waved away told volumes about how disconnected the royalty and nobility are from the real world.
She also loves the sea, feels drawn to it so much so that she sleeps with her balcony doors open every night so she can smell the salty air and hear the crashing waves.
Every month, on the full moon, her family hosts a massive ball and welcomes foreign dignitaries into their home for dinner and drinks and dancing. Cealene has grown to hate these parties—as anyone honestly would after being forced to attend them and play along with all the usual courtly politics *every month* for their *entire lives.* They seem frivolous and excessive to her, but her attendance is mandatory, and she does her duty as a princess by obeying her parents and showing up, no matter how little she wants to.
The book opens with Cealene needing to get ready for one such party, then transitions into the party itself. Honestly, I enjoyed how well the author set the scene and showed the opulence without getting lost in all the minute details. She also did a very good job of showing how exhausting such a social event could be; it was easy to sympathize with Cealene’s hatred for them!
However, this book is about MERMAIDS! So after a series of events has Cealene escaping the party and helping a childhood friend save his father, she is so overwhelmed and shaken up that she decides to answer the endless call of the sea.
But when she jumps into the ocean on the night of the full moon, she transforms into a mermaid! She didn’t even know mermaids were REAL! But she is quickly accepted into the community that lives in the seas around her kingdom, and she finds that she feels more happy and more like herself than she ever has before. Suddenly her deep love of the ocean makes more sense.
She forms lovely bonds with other merfolk and learns about her people and their history, learns why humans think mermaids are creatures of mere myth and not a living, breathing, THRIVING species. She also learns about a curse placed upon mermaids—one that, apparently, only SHE can break.
But some of the story’s impact is lessened by a few issues with the writing. For instance, when she is learning about the history of her peoples, it is presented as something that happened a very, very long time ago. I got the impression that it was many hundreds of years, at least, since the Sea Wars—a bloody, brutal clashing of humans and merfolk—happened so long ago that it has passed out of human memory entirely. Merfolk have been reduced to creatures of legend, myth, and superstition; no human has any idea that they’re actually real.
However, as the story continues and the conflicts of the past—and the curse the mermaids suffer from—are mentioned again, it seems to be implied that it’s only been about a century? Which would not be anywhere close to long enough for humans to forget such a bloody conflict, or the existence of merfolk.
There are a number of other small inconsistencies, like the color of a plant changing from one paragraph to the next, and the general timeline is…wonky.
After only a day of living in the ocean, Cealene starts thinking of her life on land as if it has already been months. After a few days, she thinks of it as “so long ago.” She has only a month to prepare for the ritual that will break the curse, but the person she needs information from, Calypso, leaves for a week-long hunting trip. It’s specifically mentioned that Calypso has been gone only a few days—but then by the end of the chapter/scene, Cealene races back to the caves where the merfolk live because she desperately needs to talk to Calypso.
It’s like the author forgets certain details as she’s writing, and her revisions process was maybe too rushed to catch these inconsistencies. There are a number of typos, too, and they only seem to get worse as the book goes on. It feels like maybe there was a rush to meet a deadline and the last 1/4 or so of the book suffers for it.
Overall, great story! But I wish there had been more depth and attention to detail. This book could also easily have been twice as long—and would have benefitted from that, I think.
December 5, 2024
— 4.5 stars —
“The sea is my soulmate. It always has been. When I am near it, my body sings with rapture, like I am truly alive.”
————about the book————
Age: Young Adult
Genres: Fantasy, Fairytale Retelling,
Writing: 9/10
Quotes: 8/10
World building: 8/10
Characters: 8/10
Romance: 8/10
My rating: 8.5/10
trigger warnings: Death, Violence, Injury Detail, Murder, etc.
———my thoughts———
In just under 300 pages, Under A Violet Moon has more depth than some books double its size.
With beautiful writing that perfectly captures the emotions and hopes of the main characters, Tara Gabrys has created a vivid, magical world.
I fell in love with the descriptions of the sea, the land, and everything in between, including the FMC, Cealene.
From how desperate she is for freedom at the beginning to how brave she becomes by the end of the book, I loved every step of her journey.
She’s an impressively well rounded character, with a curious mind and caring heart.
It probably sounds a little stupid, but I’m proud of how far she’s come, and the found family she built around herself.
All the side characters are well fleshed out, with unique personalities and backstories.
Marina was my favourite, and the friendship she built with Cealene is the definition of close. I would honestly love a companion novella about her, or perhaps one about Brea, Cealene’s other friend.
I loved how she found a family with the mermaids, but still felt that longing for her home, and family there.
While I did guess the villain before it was revealed, it didn’t spoil my enjoyment of that the part of the plot.
Complex villains are my favourite, and Tara’s definitely is one. Their motives are understandable, but taken to a point where it becomes more about revenge than retribution.
And while the romance may be very much a side plot, it’s so sweet! I’m a slowburn girl to my bones, and this had all the longing glances and tiny moments of awkwardness I adore.
So anyone who’s looking for a shorter fantasy book...I couldn’t recommend this more. It’s short enough to read quickly, but has all the emotions and worldbuilding I love in every fantasy.
————quotes————
“Long ago, before our kind became the subject of fairytales and folklore, mermaids were not a secret to the world.”
“I believe the universe gives you direction. That the wind will push you down a certain path. I believe that if you refuse that push, the universe opens up a new path for you, one that might help you get to where you are going. I don’t think there’s one path paved for a person but multiple.”
“I think I’ve been falling for you since the first day I met you.”
“No longer will my life be decided based on lies or deceit or due to anyone else’s desires but my own.”
“We swim together in a swarm of reflective scales and shadows in the darkness, an army of predators in the night.”
———random extra thoughts———
Thanks for reading! ❤️
“The sea is my soulmate. It always has been. When I am near it, my body sings with rapture, like I am truly alive.”
————about the book————
Age: Young Adult
Genres: Fantasy, Fairytale Retelling,
Writing: 9/10
Quotes: 8/10
World building: 8/10
Characters: 8/10
Romance: 8/10
My rating: 8.5/10
trigger warnings: Death, Violence, Injury Detail, Murder, etc.
———my thoughts———
In just under 300 pages, Under A Violet Moon has more depth than some books double its size.
With beautiful writing that perfectly captures the emotions and hopes of the main characters, Tara Gabrys has created a vivid, magical world.
I fell in love with the descriptions of the sea, the land, and everything in between, including the FMC, Cealene.
From how desperate she is for freedom at the beginning to how brave she becomes by the end of the book, I loved every step of her journey.
She’s an impressively well rounded character, with a curious mind and caring heart.
It probably sounds a little stupid, but I’m proud of how far she’s come, and the found family she built around herself.
All the side characters are well fleshed out, with unique personalities and backstories.
Marina was my favourite, and the friendship she built with Cealene is the definition of close. I would honestly love a companion novella about her, or perhaps one about Brea, Cealene’s other friend.
I loved how she found a family with the mermaids, but still felt that longing for her home, and family there.
While I did guess the villain before it was revealed, it didn’t spoil my enjoyment of that the part of the plot.
Complex villains are my favourite, and Tara’s definitely is one. Their motives are understandable, but taken to a point where it becomes more about revenge than retribution.
And while the romance may be very much a side plot, it’s so sweet! I’m a slowburn girl to my bones, and this had all the longing glances and tiny moments of awkwardness I adore.
So anyone who’s looking for a shorter fantasy book...I couldn’t recommend this more. It’s short enough to read quickly, but has all the emotions and worldbuilding I love in every fantasy.
————quotes————
“Long ago, before our kind became the subject of fairytales and folklore, mermaids were not a secret to the world.”
“I believe the universe gives you direction. That the wind will push you down a certain path. I believe that if you refuse that push, the universe opens up a new path for you, one that might help you get to where you are going. I don’t think there’s one path paved for a person but multiple.”
“I think I’ve been falling for you since the first day I met you.”
“No longer will my life be decided based on lies or deceit or due to anyone else’s desires but my own.”
“We swim together in a swarm of reflective scales and shadows in the darkness, an army of predators in the night.”
———random extra thoughts———
Thanks for reading! ❤️
September 27, 2024
I think this is my second mermaid book ever? This was such an interesting book! It is a story about how trauma, both personal and generational, can cause people to do both amazing and the most awful things. I did see the plot twist coming, but it did not make me any less emotional, both with anger and with devastation, when it was revealed. I loved the romance between Cealene and her significant other! It felt natural and just part of the characters’ relationship. But the romance is secondary to the new friendships Cealene made along the way, and I love that. If you like YA/NA fantasy, mermaids, friends to lovers, ancient curses, betrayal, or sacrifice, then you should read this!
July 4, 2024
My first thought about this book was what a pretty cover!
As I read Cealene's journey as she discovered the other half of her identity, I could feel that the story was building to a big and shocking secret. Once it was revealed, I found myself even more interested to see how the story would unfold. With themes such as plot twists, "finding yourself", and mermaids, this made for a great story.
As I read Cealene's journey as she discovered the other half of her identity, I could feel that the story was building to a big and shocking secret. Once it was revealed, I found myself even more interested to see how the story would unfold. With themes such as plot twists, "finding yourself", and mermaids, this made for a great story.
October 21, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ not spicy
- mermaid reverse retelling
- pretty writing
- strong and willful FMC
- interesting world
- twists on mermaid culture
This was a fun book, and I enjoyed the character development and storyline. It’s a beautiful blueprint for a princess story, feeling so much like a Disney movie, with beautiful worlds and enchanting mermaids.
🌶️ not spicy
- mermaid reverse retelling
- pretty writing
- strong and willful FMC
- interesting world
- twists on mermaid culture
This was a fun book, and I enjoyed the character development and storyline. It’s a beautiful blueprint for a princess story, feeling so much like a Disney movie, with beautiful worlds and enchanting mermaids.
March 29, 2025
3,5 ⭐️
A perfect fit for a seaside vacation—this book truly helps you feel the magic of the sea. While the plot was quite predictable, and some parts, especially Celeane’s thoughts felt a bit forced and quick, I still enjoyed the journey. A light, charming read for when you just want to relax and soak in the coastal vibes.
A perfect fit for a seaside vacation—this book truly helps you feel the magic of the sea. While the plot was quite predictable, and some parts, especially Celeane’s thoughts felt a bit forced and quick, I still enjoyed the journey. A light, charming read for when you just want to relax and soak in the coastal vibes.
March 11, 2024
I loved this book!! A way cooler, grown up version, of little mermaid with action, mystery, a love story and a twist! Love the ending too, but I won't give it away! Can't wait for more from this author!!
June 14, 2024
Great storyline and character development. Wish this was part of a trilogy because I would have loved to be able to read more!
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