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Battle Fluke
A general. An outcast. A usurper. In a battle against humans, will three mermaids turn the tide of the war?
Hurt from failing to rescue Princess Soulara, Honour is taken in by Kyree, a deep sounding mer she’s been working with. Honour and Kyree find themselves captive to usurper, Hudson, and with no hopes of warning their people about Soulara’s doom. With the battle falling apart right before her eyes, Honour sees no escape from total annihilation.
Hudson craves power and control, something her mermaid tribe will never give her in their patriarchal beliefs. With a cohort of followers, Hudson fights her own people in a battle for power. Unexpectedly, her crew finds two washed up mers who claim their underwater haven is under attack. But will Hudson believe them? Can she risk failing her people if she doesn’t?
As a pacifist, Kyree is thrown into the chaos of a battle. With a mer bent on violence and one bent on rules, she’s caught between a rock and a hard place. Feeling attraction to both is the last thing she planned. And yet, working together might be the only solution when it comes to ending the war against humans.
Will they discover love during the darkest time the ocean has seen? And will Kyree finally admit her secret…that she has the missing hope they’re searching for?
Read the conclusion to the romantasy trilogy to find out how three rogue sapphic mermaids fight to save their world.
Hurt from failing to rescue Princess Soulara, Honour is taken in by Kyree, a deep sounding mer she’s been working with. Honour and Kyree find themselves captive to usurper, Hudson, and with no hopes of warning their people about Soulara’s doom. With the battle falling apart right before her eyes, Honour sees no escape from total annihilation.
Hudson craves power and control, something her mermaid tribe will never give her in their patriarchal beliefs. With a cohort of followers, Hudson fights her own people in a battle for power. Unexpectedly, her crew finds two washed up mers who claim their underwater haven is under attack. But will Hudson believe them? Can she risk failing her people if she doesn’t?
As a pacifist, Kyree is thrown into the chaos of a battle. With a mer bent on violence and one bent on rules, she’s caught between a rock and a hard place. Feeling attraction to both is the last thing she planned. And yet, working together might be the only solution when it comes to ending the war against humans.
Will they discover love during the darkest time the ocean has seen? And will Kyree finally admit her secret…that she has the missing hope they’re searching for?
Read the conclusion to the romantasy trilogy to find out how three rogue sapphic mermaids fight to save their world.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2025
6 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Adrian J. Smith
77 books423 followersAdrian J. Smith has been publishing since 2013 but has been writing nearly her entire life. With a focus on women loving women fiction, AJ jumps genres from action-packed police procedurals to the seedier life of vampires and witches to sweet romances with a May-December twist. She loves writing and reading about women in the midst of the ordinariness of life. Two of her novels, For by Grace and Memoir in the Making, received honorable mentions with the Rainbow Awards.
AJ currently lives in Cheyenne, WY, although she moves often and has lived all over the United States. She loves to travel to different countries and places. She currently plays the roles of author, wife, and mother to two rambunctious kids, occasional handy-woman. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, or her blog.
AJ currently lives in Cheyenne, WY, although she moves often and has lived all over the United States. She loves to travel to different countries and places. She currently plays the roles of author, wife, and mother to two rambunctious kids, occasional handy-woman. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, or her blog.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
January 30, 2025
The third and final book in the trilogy, we are again with a new pairing, well, throuple, and it continues where book 2 left off. New faces along with familiar ones, and it is very much the final arc of the battle for the planet.
The focus, for most of the book, is on Kyree, Honour and Hudson, their interactions, and the developing relationship between them all. It's obvious from the start that there is something there, and it just continues to grow. It's cute, though not without its bumps along the way, but when they finally get there, it's definitely worth it.
We get some more lore on the mermaid tribes, a of course a few surprises along the way as well. The overall plot is wrapped up nicely, leaving it open for more content if they wish to revisit the setting in the future (I wouldn't mind seeing some more on Autumn and Soulara), and it is a very enjoyable read.
It definitely isn't your typical mermaid series, but that's a good thing, and it has been done well. I have enjoyed reading the entire series, and look forward to more from both authors.
The focus, for most of the book, is on Kyree, Honour and Hudson, their interactions, and the developing relationship between them all. It's obvious from the start that there is something there, and it just continues to grow. It's cute, though not without its bumps along the way, but when they finally get there, it's definitely worth it.
We get some more lore on the mermaid tribes, a of course a few surprises along the way as well. The overall plot is wrapped up nicely, leaving it open for more content if they wish to revisit the setting in the future (I wouldn't mind seeing some more on Autumn and Soulara), and it is a very enjoyable read.
It definitely isn't your typical mermaid series, but that's a good thing, and it has been done well. I have enjoyed reading the entire series, and look forward to more from both authors.
December 14, 2024
Steamy and sweet throuple and epic moments in mermaid series
As the third (and final?) book in the series, it's important to read the previous books before diving into Battle Fluke. So if you're looking at this book with interest and curiosity, without having read at least book 2 but ideally books 1 and 2 already, I'd suggest you get the full series and then read it in order to get the full story. I've read only book 2 (Surface Pressure) before this one and it was a while ago, so initially I was a bit lost trying to remember who's who, what tribe they belong to and so on; the bits of recap here are not sufficient for a new reader but work fairly well as reminders to veteran readers of the series.
This book has a bit of everything in it, from epic scenes and lots of action of all kinds (sexytimes included) to drama and some angst but thankfully some humor as well to break the tension; some other ocean critters break up tension and provide some tear worthy cuteness and fierceness to the mix of the story. Those critters for me stole every scene they were in and had me cheering them on more than the mermaids who make up the main cast of characters. The three mains have plenty of chemistry and fire between them but none come across as being a third wheel at any time or a weaker link in their throupling; some readers may take issue one of the mermaids' behavior initially and the power dynamic it creates between the three of them but all of them are strong in their own ways. The ending is the kind that answers questions and provides feel good moments and situations while also keeping the door open for a follow-up story of whatever length to check back in on the characters if the authors choose to revisit this universe again. I don't often read fantasy stories but enjoyed the series, possibly book 2 more than book 3, and suspect that fans of the genre and particularly those who love mermaids in their lesfic will enjoy Battle Fluke more than I did. The collaboration between the authors is seamless in the writing and I'd happily read another of their collaborative works in the future regardless of the genre.
As the third (and final?) book in the series, it's important to read the previous books before diving into Battle Fluke. So if you're looking at this book with interest and curiosity, without having read at least book 2 but ideally books 1 and 2 already, I'd suggest you get the full series and then read it in order to get the full story. I've read only book 2 (Surface Pressure) before this one and it was a while ago, so initially I was a bit lost trying to remember who's who, what tribe they belong to and so on; the bits of recap here are not sufficient for a new reader but work fairly well as reminders to veteran readers of the series.
This book has a bit of everything in it, from epic scenes and lots of action of all kinds (sexytimes included) to drama and some angst but thankfully some humor as well to break the tension; some other ocean critters break up tension and provide some tear worthy cuteness and fierceness to the mix of the story. Those critters for me stole every scene they were in and had me cheering them on more than the mermaids who make up the main cast of characters. The three mains have plenty of chemistry and fire between them but none come across as being a third wheel at any time or a weaker link in their throupling; some readers may take issue one of the mermaids' behavior initially and the power dynamic it creates between the three of them but all of them are strong in their own ways. The ending is the kind that answers questions and provides feel good moments and situations while also keeping the door open for a follow-up story of whatever length to check back in on the characters if the authors choose to revisit this universe again. I don't often read fantasy stories but enjoyed the series, possibly book 2 more than book 3, and suspect that fans of the genre and particularly those who love mermaids in their lesfic will enjoy Battle Fluke more than I did. The collaboration between the authors is seamless in the writing and I'd happily read another of their collaborative works in the future regardless of the genre.
December 29, 2024
Life goes on…even during a war
“We will dance again” pertains to all peoples in all places under all sorts of adverse circumstances. Yes, it is difficult’ yes, it may seem disrespectful in light of the horrors…but we need to maintain our sanity somehow. And if dancing helps, then dance a ballet. If singing helps, then sing an opera. If kissing helps, then… 😊
The authors called out some aspects of a very serious topic that has been building throughout the series: an encroaching and escalating invasion.
How far does one go in self-defense? Are the means of self-defense and the extent justified by the severity of the threat? Does attempted genocide warrant eradication of the terrorists? Etc.
For centuries, humans have been taking advantage of the weak, stealing what does not belong to them, tearing people away from their loved ones, instilling fear amongst even their own people (war negatively affects everybody) – sadly, the list goes on. The humans in this tale are no different from our world and they have us questioning where we stand in relation to others…and even to ourselves.
Some sage sea-side sayings:
Authority isn’t necessarily leadership.
‘Learn new tricks’ (for all types of battlefields).
Trust can only come from a place of vulnerability.
Put aside differences to better fight against a common enemy.
Making a better world for yourself means making a better world for all.
Fave line (quite inspirational):
‘…pushed her fluke down, found that inner strength, and started to search the ocean, one reef at a time.’
May we all experience the ‘water-rippling’ joy that our gals found…many times over!
“We will dance again” pertains to all peoples in all places under all sorts of adverse circumstances. Yes, it is difficult’ yes, it may seem disrespectful in light of the horrors…but we need to maintain our sanity somehow. And if dancing helps, then dance a ballet. If singing helps, then sing an opera. If kissing helps, then… 😊
The authors called out some aspects of a very serious topic that has been building throughout the series: an encroaching and escalating invasion.
How far does one go in self-defense? Are the means of self-defense and the extent justified by the severity of the threat? Does attempted genocide warrant eradication of the terrorists? Etc.
For centuries, humans have been taking advantage of the weak, stealing what does not belong to them, tearing people away from their loved ones, instilling fear amongst even their own people (war negatively affects everybody) – sadly, the list goes on. The humans in this tale are no different from our world and they have us questioning where we stand in relation to others…and even to ourselves.
Some sage sea-side sayings:
Authority isn’t necessarily leadership.
‘Learn new tricks’ (for all types of battlefields).
Trust can only come from a place of vulnerability.
Put aside differences to better fight against a common enemy.
Making a better world for yourself means making a better world for all.
Fave line (quite inspirational):
‘…pushed her fluke down, found that inner strength, and started to search the ocean, one reef at a time.’
May we all experience the ‘water-rippling’ joy that our gals found…many times over!
December 17, 2024
Honour and Kyree are fighting to survive and win the devastating war between their mer people and the invading humans when they are captured by Hudson, an enigmatic warrior with her own agenda. As the lives of three very different mermaids become more and more entangled, they discover unexpected commonality and attraction, but will they live long enough to explore it?
Battle Fluke is the third action-packed sapphic mermaid novel in the Love, Tails, and Battle Wails series, and it's truly an equal mix of adventure and romance. The deep-sea setting with the mer people's heart-pounding fight against manmade machinery and the added complication of a kidnapped princess is immersive. But, as with the first two stories, the depth of emotional connection between the characters is just as captivating. Honour, Kyree, and Hudson are each a complicated mix of courage and vulnerability, and as the plot unfolds, they play off of one another's strengths and weaknesses all while wrestling with their growing feelings and intense physical chemistry. As the final battle arrives with a dose of magical intrigue, suspense builds to a crescendo, and it's impossible not to root for the three heroines to not only save their world but also to embrace their chance for lasting love.
In short, Battle Fluke is an epic and satisfying conclusion to a spellbinding sapphic romantasy trilogy.
Battle Fluke is the third action-packed sapphic mermaid novel in the Love, Tails, and Battle Wails series, and it's truly an equal mix of adventure and romance. The deep-sea setting with the mer people's heart-pounding fight against manmade machinery and the added complication of a kidnapped princess is immersive. But, as with the first two stories, the depth of emotional connection between the characters is just as captivating. Honour, Kyree, and Hudson are each a complicated mix of courage and vulnerability, and as the plot unfolds, they play off of one another's strengths and weaknesses all while wrestling with their growing feelings and intense physical chemistry. As the final battle arrives with a dose of magical intrigue, suspense builds to a crescendo, and it's impossible not to root for the three heroines to not only save their world but also to embrace their chance for lasting love.
In short, Battle Fluke is an epic and satisfying conclusion to a spellbinding sapphic romantasy trilogy.
December 13, 2024
Read this trilogy! The combination of Adrian Smith and Neen Cohen is excellent and the books are great. The world is mermaids in tribes who fight with each other Some are from the deep and dome live nearer the surface. However, humans have invaded the world and are stealing water. It is a trial to get merpeople on board with fighting back. Each book centers on a different set of people. There is great romance against the backdrop of impending war. The characters in Book 3 are so different -- a general, a rebel outcast and peace loving healer who all come together in a fierce and loving relationship. Watching the 3 with such different backgrounds come together against the backdrop of the war is really well done. The characters from both previous books make appearances and demonstrate how people from different cultures and races can love and thrive. I really liked all 3 books but this one really pulled it all together. Gave me hope that worlds can improve. I would definitely read the first 2 books in order before this one. I received an ARC.
December 24, 2024
This is the final book of the Love, Tails, and Battle Wails trilogy. It definitely delivers on the battles! Three mermaids from wildly different tribes battle among themselves as they battle against the humans invading their world. Each mermaid has an element of self doubt which is expertly described and I was able to empathize with each of them. The battle scenes are action packed and the trilogy has a fulfilling conclusion. If you like opposites attract sapphic fantasy with plenty of action and angst, you'll enjoy this one.
If you haven't read Deep Sounding Chaos and Surface Pressure, I recommend you do so as this is a continuation of a story that begins in the first. Without reading the previous two books, you won't have all the relevant background information and likely won't have as much of an enjoyable reading experience as the book warrants.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If you haven't read Deep Sounding Chaos and Surface Pressure, I recommend you do so as this is a continuation of a story that begins in the first. Without reading the previous two books, you won't have all the relevant background information and likely won't have as much of an enjoyable reading experience as the book warrants.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 2, 2025
Firstly this series has been good and I wanted to like this book too but it wasn’t for me. I found that the relationship parts dominated and it pulled me out of the story way too much. This is a personal preference thing and I’m sure others would enjoy this aspect more.
Also the big ending seemed rushed and was a letdown. It was too easy. The airship part and the final battle were just too simple. There were better battles in the book and the second to last one would have made a better end one instead. Also where was Zendalia and her soul stone?
On the positive the characters were well fleshed out and it was nice to reconnect with the previous books characters.
Also the big ending seemed rushed and was a letdown. It was too easy. The airship part and the final battle were just too simple. There were better battles in the book and the second to last one would have made a better end one instead. Also where was Zendalia and her soul stone?
On the positive the characters were well fleshed out and it was nice to reconnect with the previous books characters.
December 26, 2024
I have been anxiously waiting for this book to come out and I was not disappointed. t is the third book in the Love, Tails, and Battle Wails series and I have loved the entire series, but Kyree, Honour, and Hudson were my favorite. I enjoyed the battle scenes as much as I did the sexy stuff, well almost lol. I could not put it down and did not want it to end. Adrian and Neen have out done themselves with this one. The whole series is a must read that you do not want to miss. I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 21, 2024
This is the first romance book I ever read about the lovely mermaids in the deep sea. The author painted a vivid and cool world under the sea, with different tribes of mermaids and their kingdom and mighty army. Three main characters, each with unique and endearing personality, find their ultimate soulmates while saving their world from human invasion. What a great imagination and what an epic love triangle that ends well!
December 21, 2024
Wow what an epic carry on, this series has had me on pins and neddles waiting for more and it was not disappointing it's filled with hope love battle everything you want in a book definitely a must-read congratulations
December 23, 2024
Wow ! This was a breathtaking series . The action was non-stop I was spellbound, I couldn't put it down. If you like Sapphic, mermaids, action and sweet romance this is a must series to read and characters you will love.
December 14, 2024
This series is an absolute must read. These authors work so well together bringing their characters and story to life for us. Grab the first and settle in for an epic binge.
January 3, 2025
Love this fantasy of different mermaids. Great fantasy world build. Love it.
February 17, 2025
Loved
Love in all forms brings courage and strength to those fighting for what is right and true. Love fuels victory towards the violence of oppression.
Love in all forms brings courage and strength to those fighting for what is right and true. Love fuels victory towards the violence of oppression.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews