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The Heir of Atargatis
Following the tragic loss of both her father and her fiancé in the same boating accident, Jasmine Atarga sets out on a bucket list trip to Ireland with her three girlfriends in hopes of revitalizing her spirit. While she immediately takes to the Emerald Isle and all it has to offer, (including the company of a handsome new love interest named Seamus) the dark secrets of her mysterious heritage begin to catch up with her. Jasmine then suddenly disappears on a cloudy day at the Cliffs of Moher, baffling her friends, Seamus, and local law enforcement alike.
A native of Belfast, Seamus is all too familiar with the puzzling folklore that weaves its way into the everyday lives of the Irish. With the help of a Trinity College professor and his estranged brother, he attempts to uncover the hidden truth behind Jasmine's disappearance. Will he be able to discover her fate before she's lost to the sea forever?
The Heir of Atargatis is a gripping tale of romantic fantasy that blurs the lines between legend and reality. Set in the enigmatic country of Ireland, this story examines the timeless myth of the beloved (and feared) sea creature known as the mermaid.
But not just any mermaid. The kind that can be traced back to ancient Mesopotamia and connected to legendary folklore from all over the world.
Readers will be taken on a page-turning journey of mystery and intrigue as they follow the magnetic love story of Jasmine and Seamus both on the land and in the sea.
A native of Belfast, Seamus is all too familiar with the puzzling folklore that weaves its way into the everyday lives of the Irish. With the help of a Trinity College professor and his estranged brother, he attempts to uncover the hidden truth behind Jasmine's disappearance. Will he be able to discover her fate before she's lost to the sea forever?
The Heir of Atargatis is a gripping tale of romantic fantasy that blurs the lines between legend and reality. Set in the enigmatic country of Ireland, this story examines the timeless myth of the beloved (and feared) sea creature known as the mermaid.
But not just any mermaid. The kind that can be traced back to ancient Mesopotamia and connected to legendary folklore from all over the world.
Readers will be taken on a page-turning journey of mystery and intrigue as they follow the magnetic love story of Jasmine and Seamus both on the land and in the sea.
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 17, 2024
17 people are currently reading
9104 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
March 6, 2024
As a lover of fantasy/faerie/mythical novels, all I can say is WOW.
I could not put this book down. I was so captivated and gripped that I reached for my phone (I had kindle version) every spare chance I got.
The world building in Heir of Atargatis is so in depth and truly transports the reader to another space in time. I literally dreamt about this book multiple times because the imagery that the author was able to capture in words is truly remarkable. I felt like I was watching a movie.
Atargatis is one of those books where the words are so descriptive that I could so clearly picture every setting - from the black crashing waves below the Cliffs of Mohr to the underwater portals - and the character development is amazing. Readers will love Seamus 🥵 (that’s all I’m going to say).
I can’t wait for AG Whitt to release the next book in the series because that ending left me wanting more!
If you love fantasy, romance, or even history (the story takes place in Ireland and dives into a lot of real Irish lore) this book is for you. 10/10 would read again!
I could not put this book down. I was so captivated and gripped that I reached for my phone (I had kindle version) every spare chance I got.
The world building in Heir of Atargatis is so in depth and truly transports the reader to another space in time. I literally dreamt about this book multiple times because the imagery that the author was able to capture in words is truly remarkable. I felt like I was watching a movie.
Atargatis is one of those books where the words are so descriptive that I could so clearly picture every setting - from the black crashing waves below the Cliffs of Mohr to the underwater portals - and the character development is amazing. Readers will love Seamus 🥵 (that’s all I’m going to say).
I can’t wait for AG Whitt to release the next book in the series because that ending left me wanting more!
If you love fantasy, romance, or even history (the story takes place in Ireland and dives into a lot of real Irish lore) this book is for you. 10/10 would read again!
May 27, 2024
I was tempted to give this book one star but I feel like that’s a little harsh, I’m sure there’s worse out there, but this book was a struggle to get through.
The plot was extremely predictable. Hence the title, there’s no secret what she is and the cover art already tells you what she becomes. As soon as she goes to Ireland you know she’s going to become one. When Kiana learns about selkies, it’s super obvious that Seamus is going to be one also with the way he is described. The only thing that surprised me in the plot was Fintan being engaged to Aisling which isn’t even a major plot point.
The first 60% was so slow and way too many words, then once mermaids are discovered, the rest of the book feels rushed and we already know what’s going to happen. Why did she poke herself in the eye three times to check she wasn’t wearing contacts when she saw them in the sink, why were 5 pages needed to describe this scene and then the 3 hour drive from Dublin was “oh we saw some cows”? Too much detail in unnecessary plot points.
Another thing I can’t get out of my head is “he had a jawline that made him appear intelligent”….?
Last thing I have to say is the sex scenes with Seamus were very… bothersome. Using terms of “forceful” and “without permission” and describing it this way gave me a big ick. The build up to their relationship was okay but there’s a difference between a rough and firm lover compared to a “forceful” and demanding partner. Also she’s a goddess of the sea and the first time they’re finally together it’s “you’re my woman and you do as I say” um..?
Anyway, not the worst book but I did not enjoy this read. I know this is the author’s first book, I feel like she has potential and it was a good concept in the romantasy genre, just not executed for my liking. Sorry to say I don’t think I will be reading the sequel.
The plot was extremely predictable. Hence the title, there’s no secret what she is and the cover art already tells you what she becomes. As soon as she goes to Ireland you know she’s going to become one. When Kiana learns about selkies, it’s super obvious that Seamus is going to be one also with the way he is described. The only thing that surprised me in the plot was Fintan being engaged to Aisling which isn’t even a major plot point.
The first 60% was so slow and way too many words, then once mermaids are discovered, the rest of the book feels rushed and we already know what’s going to happen. Why did she poke herself in the eye three times to check she wasn’t wearing contacts when she saw them in the sink, why were 5 pages needed to describe this scene and then the 3 hour drive from Dublin was “oh we saw some cows”? Too much detail in unnecessary plot points.
Another thing I can’t get out of my head is “he had a jawline that made him appear intelligent”….?
Last thing I have to say is the sex scenes with Seamus were very… bothersome. Using terms of “forceful” and “without permission” and describing it this way gave me a big ick. The build up to their relationship was okay but there’s a difference between a rough and firm lover compared to a “forceful” and demanding partner. Also she’s a goddess of the sea and the first time they’re finally together it’s “you’re my woman and you do as I say” um..?
Anyway, not the worst book but I did not enjoy this read. I know this is the author’s first book, I feel like she has potential and it was a good concept in the romantasy genre, just not executed for my liking. Sorry to say I don’t think I will be reading the sequel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2024
STOP EVERYTHING YOU’RE DOING AND READ THIS BOOK. Okay I love romantasy novels, but this one was next level. This author’s research into Irish legends and general world mythology was so apparent in her rich storytelling, making the plot incredibly believable despite it being a fantasy plot about mermaids. I now not only want to be a selkie, but I need book 2 to come out because I’m in love with Seamus and need more of him in my life.
May 24, 2024
2.5 at most.
I'm so sad. I was really excited for this book, the concept (mermaids, Irish folklore) had me assuming there could be nothing wrong.
But the entire plot was a miss.
First... What kind of friends continue with a trip thinking their friend is either missing or dead? No mourning period for them? I found this wildly unbelievable. The whole "Jasmine would have wanted us to continue..." No way. Friends if you read this: if I die on vacation, please pause your trip and mourn me for an appropriate amount of time, thanks.
The spicy scenes were unnecessary. They felt placed in the book for the sake of trying to say there's some spice, but they left me with the ick. (And I love a good spicy book, it takes alot to give me the ick). The reunion with Seamus and Jasmine... Was so not necessary, that's really the grand coming together for the first time?! On a beach, in pain from injuries?!
I also think the character writing for the two C's was lacking, or just done incorrectly ? The way they were written had me liking them through the description, and I didn't get the feeling that they were "bad" until Jasmine had to lay it out... This should be conveyed thru the way the characters are written. Also how is it kidnapping if she willing sought them out?
Last, there's a million and one plot holes that I hope will be addressed in book 2 but I don't know that I can bring myself to read that one when it comes out.
Hoping the author has had a lot of growth since this book...
I'm so sad. I was really excited for this book, the concept (mermaids, Irish folklore) had me assuming there could be nothing wrong.
But the entire plot was a miss.
First... What kind of friends continue with a trip thinking their friend is either missing or dead? No mourning period for them? I found this wildly unbelievable. The whole "Jasmine would have wanted us to continue..." No way. Friends if you read this: if I die on vacation, please pause your trip and mourn me for an appropriate amount of time, thanks.
The spicy scenes were unnecessary. They felt placed in the book for the sake of trying to say there's some spice, but they left me with the ick. (And I love a good spicy book, it takes alot to give me the ick). The reunion with Seamus and Jasmine... Was so not necessary, that's really the grand coming together for the first time?! On a beach, in pain from injuries?!
I also think the character writing for the two C's was lacking, or just done incorrectly ? The way they were written had me liking them through the description, and I didn't get the feeling that they were "bad" until Jasmine had to lay it out... This should be conveyed thru the way the characters are written. Also how is it kidnapping if she willing sought them out?
Last, there's a million and one plot holes that I hope will be addressed in book 2 but I don't know that I can bring myself to read that one when it comes out.
Hoping the author has had a lot of growth since this book...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2024
Ok I hate to write a bad review on a book that I know someone has worked really hard on, but I honestly think some of the 5 star reviews of this book are fake reviews/publicity planted reviews. This book was not good. I read fantasy books often but this writing was so unnecessarily wordy and like forcibly descriptive. It was almost like a YA vibe writing style, but it wasn’t intended to be since the main character is 28. The main characters weren’t that like-able either. Maybe it just wasn’t for me and others will like it.
May 3, 2024
I was so intrigued by the synopsis of this story and I loved the setting! Now I need to visit Ireland! It took me a little bit to get into this book, but then I was hooked on seeing how things would come together in the end. I loved the mermaids, Irish mythology, and I enjoyed getting to know the characters as the story went on. I can't wait to read the next one in the series!
Thanks to author for the free copy in exchange for my honest review!
Thanks to author for the free copy in exchange for my honest review!
March 24, 2026
I just really liked this book and found myself eager to finish it.
April 3, 2026
Let me set the mood for you on this one. 1984 rom-com, Splash (minus the ‘com’)….meets….2010 Barbie in a Mermaid Tale, and I could not possibly love this mash-up any more!
March 7, 2024
I am absolutely obsessed with this book! A.G. Whitt's debut novel, 'The Heir of Atargatis,' immerses readers in a captivating world where the allure of Ireland's rugged coast meets the mystery of the sea. I was so gripped by this plot from the very first scene until the end. Whitt’s lyrical prose and richly imagined setting make this novel a delightful escape into a realm where magic and reality intertwine, leaving readers spellbound until the very last page. The spicy scenes further add to the intrigue and had me dying for more. I NEED book 2 to come out!!
September 3, 2024
2.5/5- so much potential, missed the mark
July 15, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Wow, I thoroughly enjoyed this read! Maybe I'm biased because I've lover mermaids since I was little (Ariel stan forever!).
I loved the descriptive writing style and the emotional pulls of this story 🥺.
I found myself easily transported into all the settings of this book, which I loved. I also was a big fan of the description style of the selkies/mermaids, again probably from my deep love for mermaids. I loved the dialogue - the articulation of accents was written so well imo.
For someone who's not too familiar with Irish folklore, my interest is now piqued!
I can't really fault the book too much, my only critique would be that the 2nd half of the book felt a bit too quick and fast paced where if it was a bit longer of an overall book and more scenes in the mermaid world, similar to the first half would have been worthwhile, some more interaction between mermaids. Especially everything planned in that part of the novel - I feel could have been beneficial.
My other point would be the rush exit from the story of the friend group after what happened. It seemed a little bizarre (I feel this is set up this way for future book/s perhaps)
THAT'S IT! I loved the book and the story, if you couldn't tell already!
Thank you to the author for this story, I look forward to the next book 🤗
Wow, I thoroughly enjoyed this read! Maybe I'm biased because I've lover mermaids since I was little (Ariel stan forever!).
I loved the descriptive writing style and the emotional pulls of this story 🥺.
I found myself easily transported into all the settings of this book, which I loved. I also was a big fan of the description style of the selkies/mermaids, again probably from my deep love for mermaids. I loved the dialogue - the articulation of accents was written so well imo.
For someone who's not too familiar with Irish folklore, my interest is now piqued!
I can't really fault the book too much, my only critique would be that the 2nd half of the book felt a bit too quick and fast paced where if it was a bit longer of an overall book and more scenes in the mermaid world, similar to the first half would have been worthwhile, some more interaction between mermaids. Especially everything planned in that part of the novel - I feel could have been beneficial.
My other point would be the rush exit from the story of the friend group after what happened. It seemed a little bizarre (I feel this is set up this way for future book/s perhaps)
THAT'S IT! I loved the book and the story, if you couldn't tell already!
Thank you to the author for this story, I look forward to the next book 🤗
March 20, 2024
I found this book through Tiktok and was instantly intrigued by the cover which I love! The color and design instantly hooks you and that alone I would give 5 stars. I loved the creativity and locations in this book, I could easily picture the setting as I read along.
The reason I gave this book three stars is mainly because one of the main characters who is Irish uses the word 'ye' in instead of 'you' and it was really hard for me to get my head around him being a modern day Irish character. I've watched other shows, read other books and have friends based in Ireland and this term has never been used in modern day, so in my personal experience it was jarring to read and I couldn't fully immerse myself in this story.
There were also some Irish slang sayings with no definition or explanation that I would have to stop reading and have to Google that also made it hard for me to read.
Overall I think A.G. Whitt has a good creative foundation and look forward to her future work. This book wasn't a five star for me but would still recommend it to others who enjoy Irish mythology and fantasy novels.
The reason I gave this book three stars is mainly because one of the main characters who is Irish uses the word 'ye' in instead of 'you' and it was really hard for me to get my head around him being a modern day Irish character. I've watched other shows, read other books and have friends based in Ireland and this term has never been used in modern day, so in my personal experience it was jarring to read and I couldn't fully immerse myself in this story.
There were also some Irish slang sayings with no definition or explanation that I would have to stop reading and have to Google that also made it hard for me to read.
Overall I think A.G. Whitt has a good creative foundation and look forward to her future work. This book wasn't a five star for me but would still recommend it to others who enjoy Irish mythology and fantasy novels.
March 21, 2024
If you happen to stumble upon this book, and are thinking about reading, pick it up now!! I wish I could wipe it from my brain and re-read it as I anxiously await the next book.
This debut novel has been my favorite read of the year and an unexpected surprise from a new author.
I started reading fantasy about two years ago and have made my way through everything, eventually running out of content. Finding this book was such a stroke of luck on St. Patrick’s Day. This book was exactly what I wanted to read as a fantasy lover.
What I appreciated was how original it is. Many fantasy series take elements from each other or have distinct similarities, but not this one! This is a world all its own. While it is “fantasy” it is also rather realistic. We don’t know what’s out in the ocean 🤷♀️
The author does such a great job and painting a vibrant scene and evoking emotions from the characters. You will not regret reading this book.
This debut novel has been my favorite read of the year and an unexpected surprise from a new author.
I started reading fantasy about two years ago and have made my way through everything, eventually running out of content. Finding this book was such a stroke of luck on St. Patrick’s Day. This book was exactly what I wanted to read as a fantasy lover.
What I appreciated was how original it is. Many fantasy series take elements from each other or have distinct similarities, but not this one! This is a world all its own. While it is “fantasy” it is also rather realistic. We don’t know what’s out in the ocean 🤷♀️
The author does such a great job and painting a vibrant scene and evoking emotions from the characters. You will not regret reading this book.
April 2, 2024
I loved being immersed in this world of the selkies (and mermaids from other regions)! The author perfectly weaves together the scenes and stories of modern day Ireland with those of the mythological and magical selkies. The characters and their interactions are so relatable, which makes the fantasy element that much more exciting and imaginable! The robust details about Ireland and its mythological legends, historical landmarks, and geography add an incredible amount of depth to the book. It makes me want to delve into Irish folklore even more! The writing itself is full of beautiful descriptions, witty dialogue, and the perfect sprinkling of pop culture references. Overall a GREAT read. I am eagerly anticipating the sequel!
March 7, 2024
I can’t even begin to describe how much I loved this book. I thought it was going to be a romantasy kind of like all the others that are popular right now, BUT NOT EVEN CLOSE. This one was in a league of its own. For one thing, the writing is superb. Second, the idea of the plot was genius. Kind of reminded me of outlander, but a lot quicker to get to the point. To connect ancient mermaid mythology to the Irish Selkie in the way that the author did was such a unique concept. I can’t wait for the next one. I hope Professor Brennan is in more of the next book because he was such a great character.
April 4, 2024
This is not a book I would usually pick up, but this brand new incredibly creative and intelligent author is a friend of a friend - so was interested to see just how brilliant this author is - and of course, I was beyond impressed & intrigued! I actually could not put this book down. It hits all the marks: friendship, relationships, lovers, traveling (Ireland, Florida, Portugal to name a few), loss, ohhhh and how could I forget....MERMAIDS!!!! It's truly fantastical in every sense and I highly recommend. I applaud this new author and very excited for the next book in this trilogy.
If you need an escape, open this book.
If you need an escape, open this book.
August 2, 2024
I came across this book because the author was doing a signing at my local bookstore and I have no regrets about walking over to that table.
I’m really trying to get back into reading and this book ended up being a great place to start. It was an easy read for me but it was entertaining at the same time. I quite literally lost track of time while reading it. I was so excited to finish the book and find out what happened but at the same time didn’t want it to end.
I loved the story and fantasy world created by A.G. Whitt and can’t wait for the second book to come out. It was a good mix of romance and fantasy and the small amount of spicy scenes were a great addition.
I’m really trying to get back into reading and this book ended up being a great place to start. It was an easy read for me but it was entertaining at the same time. I quite literally lost track of time while reading it. I was so excited to finish the book and find out what happened but at the same time didn’t want it to end.
I loved the story and fantasy world created by A.G. Whitt and can’t wait for the second book to come out. It was a good mix of romance and fantasy and the small amount of spicy scenes were a great addition.
March 7, 2024
This book is absolutely one of my favorite reads of the past year. I saw this author on TikTok talking about how the book was all about Irish folklore and other mermaid legends and thought it sounded like an interesting concept. But I was NOT prepared for the incredible storytelling and rich mythology that was baked into this plot. The author’s writing style is really descriptive and this made me want to go to Ireland so badly. Tons of romance, of course, but the plot really holds its own even without it.
March 31, 2024
Loved this story and the descriptive writing. I could absolutely visualize every location and feel the characters emotions. The only reason I didn’t give 5 stars is because the Irish phrases were a little off putting for me. I want to love Seamus but it’s hard to when I don’t understand what he means unless I’m reading in one hand and googling in the other. I do also wish we got more of Seamus and jasmine together in this book. However, I am very interested in book 2! I want to know what happens next and get to know these characters better now that we are in the sea!
June 21, 2024
This book was very unique and such a lovely story. I went to Ireland many years ago so reading about Jasmine first trip and the things she did and saw brought me back to my first visit. I loved falling back into Ireland rich history and I felt transported to the island. The author did amazing job of weaving Irish folktale and history into the modern setting. I enjoyed the world building and loved the premise of this book. I am also a sucker for insta love and Jasmine and Seamus are swoon worthy. I hope book two leads to more spice between the two.
March 7, 2024
Okay I loooooved this story. The author’s writing style is so incredibly descriptive, I felt like I was literally THERE and I’ve never even been to Ireland.
The overall theme of the book reminds me a lot of the Outlander series but with WAY more fast paced action and adventure. The romantic chemistry between Jasmine and Seamus was so well done and I am dying for book 2 because now I’m in love with Seamus.
The overall theme of the book reminds me a lot of the Outlander series but with WAY more fast paced action and adventure. The romantic chemistry between Jasmine and Seamus was so well done and I am dying for book 2 because now I’m in love with Seamus.
March 7, 2024
I saw this author come up on my TikTok and was interested in the Irish folklore in this book. And I was BLOWN AWAY by this plot. I expected a softball kind of romantasy story but this was wayyy more than that. The author clearly did a lot of research into mythology to weave together this plot and the selkies being connected to the ancient mermaid Atargatis was just unreal. I can’t wait for the second one.
March 21, 2024
What a banger! Although this isn’t my usual genre, once I started I could not put this book down. Never would’ve been able to guess this was a debut novel (learned that on TikTok).
The writing was perfectly descriptive and the emotions were real. I was sad to finish it and my only gripe would be I could’ve used another 50 pages at the end! Guess I’ll have to wait for book 2.
5/5 would recommend (especially if you love HP vibes)
The writing was perfectly descriptive and the emotions were real. I was sad to finish it and my only gripe would be I could’ve used another 50 pages at the end! Guess I’ll have to wait for book 2.
5/5 would recommend (especially if you love HP vibes)
May 12, 2024
Me being a slow reader, the first half ish of the book took me a bit to get hooked. Once what was anticipated finally took off, I read the second half in 3 hours…. Now I can’t wait for the second book to see what happens next. I’m honestly blown away by the background research it must’ve taken to write such a geographically descriptive storyline as well as all the folklore. This is not my style read at ALL but dang I’m glad I picked it up!!
September 18, 2024
I couldn’t be more happy with this book! This has been such a fun read and I’m happy I did It!
This is a mermaid romantasy that really leaves you wanting more! So lucky for us there is a sequel and it’s already out and I’m starting It tomorrow!
Another thing I really love about this book is that the MMC and MFC are both like 30 years old!
If you’ve been thinking about reading this book, just do It! I loveeeeee It and I’m so happy I did this!!
This is a mermaid romantasy that really leaves you wanting more! So lucky for us there is a sequel and it’s already out and I’m starting It tomorrow!
Another thing I really love about this book is that the MMC and MFC are both like 30 years old!
If you’ve been thinking about reading this book, just do It! I loveeeeee It and I’m so happy I did this!!
March 8, 2024
THIS BOOK. I have actually never read anything like it. Yes, it’s a fantasy romance, but it’s so much more than that. This author has created explanations for countless myths that have been around for hundreds of years in such a captivating way and I cannot believe she’s not viral yet to be honest. This is the best thing I’ve read since Outlander.
March 21, 2024
This was such a great book to read. I loved all of it! If you are looking for a romantasy book with mermaids, adventure, mythical and legendary tales with an Irish setting, then I highly recommend giving this one a go. Jasmine and Seamus are such a cute couple, and their last scene was 😜🔥🌶️ Can’t wait for the next instalment in this series!
May 5, 2024
This story was absolutely riveting. Anyone who likes Irish folklore or mermaids HAS to read this book. The tragedy, mystery and spice will make your head spin in the best way. I don’t want to go too deep into a story summary so as not to give anything away but trust me, if you like romantasy you have to read this!
April 9, 2025
3.5 rounded up to not hurt the book.
It was a little slow for me to start, then felt rushed.
I think Seamus character got the shaft as far as how he found things out and the ending was rushed so we didn’t get to know him.
I’m not sure if I’ll be interested enough to read the rest of the series? It’s not something I’ve thought about when I’m not reading the book. Maybe I’m in a slump?
It was a little slow for me to start, then felt rushed.
I think Seamus character got the shaft as far as how he found things out and the ending was rushed so we didn’t get to know him.
I’m not sure if I’ll be interested enough to read the rest of the series? It’s not something I’ve thought about when I’m not reading the book. Maybe I’m in a slump?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2024
This book was fantastic, it had amazing world building. The ending was a bit rushed but it made me excited for the 2nd book! If you loved mermaids as a kid this will be so nostalgic. I loved all of the Florida references as well. You could tell the author was well researched in Irish lore.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews