Sirens and Secrets: A Little Mermaid Retelling

by Lydia Mae

Who can change the currents of their fate?

Merfolk and landwalkers are sworn enemies. Aria knows better than to approach land, but she’s always struggled to contain her curiosity. When she loses track of the receding tides and finds herself trapped alone on a beach, she faces certain death until she’s rescued by a mysterious landwalker, Emmett. He returns her safely to the sea, leaving Aria questioning everything she thought she knew about her enemies.

Aria’s connection with Emmett is undeniable, and their bond grows as she finds opportunities to meet with him secretly. But when the Mer prince sends Aria an unexpected marriage proposal, Emmett offers her something else: a magical necklace that will grant her temporary legs and a chance to become part of his world for a time.

Aria risks everything to test her newfound feelings for Emmett, but this magic comes with a cost, and if anyone discovers her siren identity, it won’t just be her love on the line. It will be her life.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance

ebook

Published February 28, 2025

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a sweet take on the classic Little Mermaid tale. Not as tragic as Anderson, but far more intrigue and action than Disney. I enjoyed the character dynamics and seeing the consequences they faced for all their lying. A good, moral story with strong spiritual overtones.

[Charissa James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing Little Mermaid retelling from Lydia Mae! Ever since reading To Break a Silence, which introduces Aria and Emmett as a story of the past, I wondered what had happened between them. This one is a little different as the MMC knows about Aria's mermaid identity from the beginning. The intriguing part was trying to figure out how they would make a romance work between a human and a mermaid. The plot twists and politics that helped them get there were so good! The romance between Aria and Emmett was so sweet. I adored that they first became friends and just enjoyed spending time together. And then, the way their love developed into each offering to sacrifice everything for the other was just so moving. It was a great picture of what real love should look like. I also enjoyed the allegory that pointed to faith in God. I'm always encouraged when authors include Him in their stories. I highly recommend this one for fans of romantic Christian fantasy!

[Shannon Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this refreshingly different take on the little mermaid. I loved that it centered around sisters, and how their relationship remained relevant even amidst the love story. I loved the worldbuilding and how vibrantly the authors brings her ideas to life. I’m very excited to read more by this author :)

[Schlabach Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Started a bit slow, but once I hit 25% I became invested in what was unfolding and was committed to finishing. The end ling chapters had me like 😲 the epilogue was sad to me, but perhaps a promise for a book 2 that will bring the ending I was hoping for? Overall rating 3.5 stars 🌟

[Lizzy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun read! It started out slow, but when the action picked up, I found myself unable to put the book down! This is such a satisfying prequel to To Break a Silence!

[Megan Parmerter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time reading Lydia Mae's work, and honestly my first mermaid story, but it was a sweet, enjoyable read! It took a minute for the action to kick in, but once it did, there was a nice mix of romance, political intrigue, and a sisterly duo. I enjoyed this read and would recommend it to mermaid lovers. Looking forward to more from this author!