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A Mermaid Tale #0.5
Scales
Verona is a bottom feeder. She is the one mer in her clan who is considered the ugliest and least intelligent. Growing up with the constant bullying and abuse wasn’t the worst of what her kind had in store for her. At seventeen years old, she must now endure “The Reckoning.”
The scales will measure her worth to her clan. Will she endure thirty days as a land-walker to gather information and knowledge to appease her clan and return a valued member? Will she wait three years, until she is twenty, and find a mer of her kind to accept her and marry her? Or will she suffer exile for the rest of her life?
The scales will measure her worth to her clan. Will she endure thirty days as a land-walker to gather information and knowledge to appease her clan and return a valued member? Will she wait three years, until she is twenty, and find a mer of her kind to accept her and marry her? Or will she suffer exile for the rest of her life?
140 pages, Paperback
First published May 26, 2015
68 people are currently reading
520 people want to read
About the author
Pauline Creeden
76 books577 followersPauline Creeden is an award-winning author, horse trainer, and overall book ninja. She becomes the main character in each of her stories, and because she has ADD, she will get bored if she pretends to be one person for too long.
Armored Hearts, her joint effort with author Melissa Turner Lee, has been a #1 Bestseller in Christian Fantasy and been awarded the Crowned Heart for Excellence by InDtale Magazine. Her debut novel, Sanctuary, won 1st Place Christian YA Title 2013 Dante Rosetti Award and 2014 Gold Award for First Place YA Horror Novel.
Armored Hearts, her joint effort with author Melissa Turner Lee, has been a #1 Bestseller in Christian Fantasy and been awarded the Crowned Heart for Excellence by InDtale Magazine. Her debut novel, Sanctuary, won 1st Place Christian YA Title 2013 Dante Rosetti Award and 2014 Gold Award for First Place YA Horror Novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
February 11, 2018
I don't want to spoil anything, but I'm sure glad I got the chance to read this!
I have loved more than hated when it came to the mermaid books that I've read! Just so much action (and some to quite-a-bit of romance). ^^
But that cliffhanger.... :(:
I have loved more than hated when it came to the mermaid books that I've read! Just so much action (and some to quite-a-bit of romance). ^^
But that cliffhanger.... :(:
June 5, 2018
Addicting from the start, oh my gosh - wow what a trip this poor girl has to live through. I really liked the way the author writes and even though the book is a cliff hanger which I absolutely hate, I have to say I couldn't wait to find out what happens next between Verona and Bailey or if she goes on with her life on shore or into another clan. I absolutely loved this mermaid world even though I hate anyone being a bottom feeder (being bullied where only the strongest survive). But the suspense drew me in and Verona's strength won my heart and as far a Bailey, I'm not so sure things will work out but I hope he comes to his senses and tells his clan to take a hike. We will see hopefully in next book.
Excellent Catch!
Excellent Catch!
September 23, 2015
I bought the Falling in Deep collection as I enjoy mermaid stories. Having already read two of the stories in this box set I excitedly started reading the rest. Unfortunately Scales didn't work for me, maybe because I was expecting more or had my hopes up, but I felt strangely disappointing. It's a short novella, but I struggled through it at times, the only reason I finished it was because of the length. This book was pretty boring, not much happens and it couldn't keep my attention. It was just interesting enough that I did continue in hopes it would improve.
Verona is a bottom feeding, which is sort of like the weakest and most stupid mermaid of the clan if I understand it correctly. At the start of the book she get hurts by her fellow Mer's and is left alone. She has three choices, go on land, survive three years alone or marry someone. I have no clue how she was supposed to find someone to marry while in exile. Most of Verona her days are spent trying to learn how to catch fish, recovering from her wounds, interacting with the horses and watching television.
I had a hard time connecting or relating to Verona and we learn very little about mermaid society and culture. The only thing we learn about the Mer's is how they treat bottom feeders, which was pretty despicable, Veronca got bullied a lot even by the teachers and I did feel sorry for her. It's a wonder she was still so capable with all the abuse she had to endure. I didn't get why Verona didn't choose to go on land, I know her father told her not to, but a month surviving on land still seemed easier than a whole three years in the sea, even though that was familiar. I did like how Verona tried to catch fish herself and do her best to survive. Then there is some romance which I didn't really feel or maybe it's still supposed to build I don't know. the ending was pretty sudden and didn't wrap anything up. I am not sure if this is supposed to be part of a series or that the ending is supposed to be this way.
To summarize: I really wanted to like this book, but it didn't work for me. It couldn't hold my attention and nothing much happened, the plot moved along very slowly without any direction and then the ending was very sudden, making me wonder if this is the first book in a series or if it is supposed to end this way. I couldn't really connect to any of the characters as we simply don't learn enough about them. I also had hoped we would learn more about the mermaid culture, but the story mostly focuses on Verona trying to survive. There is a minor sort of romance plot line thrown in that didn't really worked for me.
Verona is a bottom feeding, which is sort of like the weakest and most stupid mermaid of the clan if I understand it correctly. At the start of the book she get hurts by her fellow Mer's and is left alone. She has three choices, go on land, survive three years alone or marry someone. I have no clue how she was supposed to find someone to marry while in exile. Most of Verona her days are spent trying to learn how to catch fish, recovering from her wounds, interacting with the horses and watching television.
I had a hard time connecting or relating to Verona and we learn very little about mermaid society and culture. The only thing we learn about the Mer's is how they treat bottom feeders, which was pretty despicable, Veronca got bullied a lot even by the teachers and I did feel sorry for her. It's a wonder she was still so capable with all the abuse she had to endure. I didn't get why Verona didn't choose to go on land, I know her father told her not to, but a month surviving on land still seemed easier than a whole three years in the sea, even though that was familiar. I did like how Verona tried to catch fish herself and do her best to survive. Then there is some romance which I didn't really feel or maybe it's still supposed to build I don't know. the ending was pretty sudden and didn't wrap anything up. I am not sure if this is supposed to be part of a series or that the ending is supposed to be this way.
To summarize: I really wanted to like this book, but it didn't work for me. It couldn't hold my attention and nothing much happened, the plot moved along very slowly without any direction and then the ending was very sudden, making me wonder if this is the first book in a series or if it is supposed to end this way. I couldn't really connect to any of the characters as we simply don't learn enough about them. I also had hoped we would learn more about the mermaid culture, but the story mostly focuses on Verona trying to survive. There is a minor sort of romance plot line thrown in that didn't really worked for me.
September 6, 2019
I love the world-building in this. It’s so vivid and I really could see what the author was painting with her words. I love the mermaid angle and it’s such an interesting concept.
The plotline is well-paced. I loved the suspense and Verona’s journey. It’s heartwarming and captivating. Pauline Creeden’s writing is wonderful.
I recommend checking this series out! Fantastic world-building, believable characters, and a fun plot. Check it out!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Promotional Book Tours. All opinions are my own.*
Find this review and more on my blog: https://jessicabelmont.wordpress.com/
The plotline is well-paced. I loved the suspense and Verona’s journey. It’s heartwarming and captivating. Pauline Creeden’s writing is wonderful.
I recommend checking this series out! Fantastic world-building, believable characters, and a fun plot. Check it out!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Promotional Book Tours. All opinions are my own.*
Find this review and more on my blog: https://jessicabelmont.wordpress.com/
May 13, 2015
I can't say that I've ever been the biggest mermaid fan (although I do admit to knowing all the lyrics to Under the Sea) but I think I may be converted! This is the first book from the Falling in Deep Collection that I've read, and it certainly won't be the last! Several of my favorite authors have paired up in this one, making it my most anticipated anthology in forever!
In the end, my greatest regret was that this story wasn't anywhere near long enough. Novellas rarely are, but in this case, the story will be continued in a full length novel, Salt. Scales really is just the tip of this story, and I can't wait to get my hands on the rest of it!
The story starts off with Verona being exiled from their community for being a bottomfeeder, the lowest member of their group. Her options are limited, but she will be killed if she stays. Her dilemma reminded me of something Albert Einstein said: “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” Verona isn't struggling because she isn't smart. She's struggling because she was told she wasn't smart. This is something that I think every reader will be able to relate to, and I think following her journey will feel very empowering.
A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
In the end, my greatest regret was that this story wasn't anywhere near long enough. Novellas rarely are, but in this case, the story will be continued in a full length novel, Salt. Scales really is just the tip of this story, and I can't wait to get my hands on the rest of it!
The story starts off with Verona being exiled from their community for being a bottomfeeder, the lowest member of their group. Her options are limited, but she will be killed if she stays. Her dilemma reminded me of something Albert Einstein said: “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” Verona isn't struggling because she isn't smart. She's struggling because she was told she wasn't smart. This is something that I think every reader will be able to relate to, and I think following her journey will feel very empowering.
A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2015
Scales by Pauline Creeden is a mermaid novella and does not stand alone.
I love anything to do with mer people and when I see a book, I will grab it pronto. The cover is beautiful and the title catchy, makes me think I will enjoy Pauline's writing.
The Reckoning has come for Verona. Will she choose the land or the sea?
I wonder...do mers go to school? Do they learn to read and write? Do they quote Shakespeare?
Pauline's vivid and detailed description of Verona changing from breathing water to breathing air had me hanging on her every word.
I feel Verona's sense of accomplishment when she catches her first fish. She has worked hard to learn something I had thought would come easily to her. Pauline does a great job of showing us her growth and development as she struggles to survive.
Verona has made friends with the horses of Chincoteague. When the annual roundup occurrs, she feels like she is losing her furry friends. At least they will be together, she thinks, but she is so alone. I have read about the horses and find it fascinating.
I do not see a lot of mer books, so I am always on the lookout for an original approach to the subject. Pauline's writing kept my interest throughout the novella.
The novella ends abruptly and I was pissed. LOL Now I have to wait to find out what happens next, but I will be waiting.
I received Scales by Pauline Creeden in return for an honest review.
I love anything to do with mer people and when I see a book, I will grab it pronto. The cover is beautiful and the title catchy, makes me think I will enjoy Pauline's writing.
The Reckoning has come for Verona. Will she choose the land or the sea?
I wonder...do mers go to school? Do they learn to read and write? Do they quote Shakespeare?
Pauline's vivid and detailed description of Verona changing from breathing water to breathing air had me hanging on her every word.
I feel Verona's sense of accomplishment when she catches her first fish. She has worked hard to learn something I had thought would come easily to her. Pauline does a great job of showing us her growth and development as she struggles to survive.
Verona has made friends with the horses of Chincoteague. When the annual roundup occurrs, she feels like she is losing her furry friends. At least they will be together, she thinks, but she is so alone. I have read about the horses and find it fascinating.
I do not see a lot of mer books, so I am always on the lookout for an original approach to the subject. Pauline's writing kept my interest throughout the novella.
The novella ends abruptly and I was pissed. LOL Now I have to wait to find out what happens next, but I will be waiting.
I received Scales by Pauline Creeden in return for an honest review.
February 25, 2017
I honestly expected this to go the route of all the other Little Mermaid wannabes, since everyone loves a fish-out-of-water tale as the heroine tries to understand and find her way in a new unknown world. So, imagine my happy surprise that it went in a different direction and never actually took her on land. I loved that it tried to bring to life what the world underwater looks like (I’ve always pictured it as a lot more colorful looking, but then that might be because I’m out in the Pacific), but in this world it seemed rather monotone and even Verona commented that the world on television looked more colorful than her grey world underwater. I loved her experiences as she investigated the coastline of the small cluster of islands, and, yes, I loved the dash of possible romance. And, of course, Verona learning to stand up for herself, how to hunt and keep herself alive out in the world, and all the bits and pieces about her life as a Mer before the exile. I thought the entire story was well written, Verona was a strong heroine, even with her fears and innocence, and I easily sped through it. I should warn that it does end on a to-be-continued note, but I’ve searched through Pauline’s books and there doesn’t seem to be any continuation for it (Please, do continue this story! I’d like to see which of the three options Verona chooses and where her further adventures take her!)
May 13, 2015
-- I received this book in exchange for my honest review. -- This is a short mermaid story. The main character's name is Verona, you won't know her name unless you know some Shakespeare. She is exiled for being less than a typical Mer. Most of the beginning was pretty slow paced, and not so interesting. By the middle it picked up and gained my interest. The characters are not as detailed as I like, but enough so for my imagination to do the rest. The book left a cliffhanger, but nothing you'd scream at the book for. :) I look forward to continuing this story to find out if anything truly lies ahead for Verona and Bailey.
March 3, 2016
Okay beginning. irratated that it just stops abruptly. don't think I'll continue with series. very slow pace.
July 21, 2016
Keep away!!!
November 8, 2017
Book Review: Scales by Pauline Creeden
Reviewed by Heather Ragland
Verona’s reckoning has begun. If she survives the trial period, her social status among the Mer people will change. To make this transition, Verona only has three choices. Not one of them is very appealing. Will Verona face exile or will she do what is necessary to return to her people?
With a basic writing style, Creeden encourages readers to learn about Verona’s fate, as the mermaid faces difficult situations. The themes of social status, expectations, confidence, and abuse drive the story. Messages about love, family, desires, and personal growth also make this story worth reading.
Verona has certain beliefs due to her upbringing and social status. Her social standing and thoughts have a great effect on her. The beliefs are greatly influenced by her earlier experience and the expectations of her people. As Verona periodically quotes a well-known playwright, there is a clear picture of her personality as she interacts with other Mer people, animal and sea creatures.
The perilous environment of the sea and the Mer people’s attitude toward Verona makes readers fear for her well-being. She has to constantly avoid different dangers. She uses what she learns, during her trial period, to help her get through some of the ordeals she has to face. As she adjusts to different situations, she shows she is resourceful as she is confronted with each challenge, even though conflicted feelings constantly plague her.
Readers are shown the type of relationship that exists between Verona and her parents. Verona’s father fears about his daughter’s personality and situation are revealed. The relationship that exists between Verona and her mother is also shown, and is very different from the relationship Verona has with her father.
There also is an insight into the relationship Verona has with another character. He is conflicted about how he feels about her and as more information is discovered about the merman, it is clear why he has certain feelings. The relationship, between Verona and the character, encourages readers to contemplate the issues of love, beliefs, loyalty, and obligation.
Some insight is given about the customs and beliefs of Verona’s people. The customs are very different from the ways of humans. The Mer people have certain attitudes about education, marriage, and love. Some readers may be curious to see how things turn out for Verona when she uses her knowledge to make her way in the world.
Verona way of learning about the human world is interesting. When she gains certain information about mankind, she learns an important lesson about fantasy and reality.
Scales is a short-story. There is not a lot of background information about certain aspects of the Mer society. Many details about their history and information their educational system is missing. A description of the physical environment the Mer people inhabit, on a daily basis, is not a part of the story-line. Some readers may be disappointed that this information is not present.
As the first part of Verona’s story ends, she comes to certain conclusions about survival and humans. She also takes time to contemplate the choices she can choose to make. Ultimately, she selects a life path. To find out what happens during the next part of Verona’s journey, you will have to read Salt, which is the sequel to Scales.
If you are captivated by stories about mermaids, then you may want to check out this book.
I give Scales 3.5 out of 5 stars.
I was given a free copy of this eBook in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Heather Ragland
Verona’s reckoning has begun. If she survives the trial period, her social status among the Mer people will change. To make this transition, Verona only has three choices. Not one of them is very appealing. Will Verona face exile or will she do what is necessary to return to her people?
With a basic writing style, Creeden encourages readers to learn about Verona’s fate, as the mermaid faces difficult situations. The themes of social status, expectations, confidence, and abuse drive the story. Messages about love, family, desires, and personal growth also make this story worth reading.
Verona has certain beliefs due to her upbringing and social status. Her social standing and thoughts have a great effect on her. The beliefs are greatly influenced by her earlier experience and the expectations of her people. As Verona periodically quotes a well-known playwright, there is a clear picture of her personality as she interacts with other Mer people, animal and sea creatures.
The perilous environment of the sea and the Mer people’s attitude toward Verona makes readers fear for her well-being. She has to constantly avoid different dangers. She uses what she learns, during her trial period, to help her get through some of the ordeals she has to face. As she adjusts to different situations, she shows she is resourceful as she is confronted with each challenge, even though conflicted feelings constantly plague her.
Readers are shown the type of relationship that exists between Verona and her parents. Verona’s father fears about his daughter’s personality and situation are revealed. The relationship that exists between Verona and her mother is also shown, and is very different from the relationship Verona has with her father.
There also is an insight into the relationship Verona has with another character. He is conflicted about how he feels about her and as more information is discovered about the merman, it is clear why he has certain feelings. The relationship, between Verona and the character, encourages readers to contemplate the issues of love, beliefs, loyalty, and obligation.
Some insight is given about the customs and beliefs of Verona’s people. The customs are very different from the ways of humans. The Mer people have certain attitudes about education, marriage, and love. Some readers may be curious to see how things turn out for Verona when she uses her knowledge to make her way in the world.
Verona way of learning about the human world is interesting. When she gains certain information about mankind, she learns an important lesson about fantasy and reality.
Scales is a short-story. There is not a lot of background information about certain aspects of the Mer society. Many details about their history and information their educational system is missing. A description of the physical environment the Mer people inhabit, on a daily basis, is not a part of the story-line. Some readers may be disappointed that this information is not present.
As the first part of Verona’s story ends, she comes to certain conclusions about survival and humans. She also takes time to contemplate the choices she can choose to make. Ultimately, she selects a life path. To find out what happens during the next part of Verona’s journey, you will have to read Salt, which is the sequel to Scales.
If you are captivated by stories about mermaids, then you may want to check out this book.
I give Scales 3.5 out of 5 stars.
I was given a free copy of this eBook in exchange for an honest review.
July 18, 2017
I've always been a sucker for mermaid tales and I wasn't sure what to expect when I received Scales for free to read and review. Scales is definitely different from Disney's"The Little Mermaid" version although the main character, Verona is just as naive and inexperienced as Ariel.
Scales is written in the first person narrative with Verona as the main character. It is a rather short novel and I finished it in less than an hour. Although it is told through the eyes of Verona, there are parts where it's rather lengthy in descriptions but the descriptions are very vivid and innocent.
Verona is an outcast of sorts, a mermaid of the lower society and you immediately become drawn to her innocence and naivete. I do like Verona quite a bit and although her character development is a bit slow I am assuming we'll see more of her past, present, and future in the next installment.
The parts where it kind of got confusing for me (and maybe the author should have touched more on it) was when Verona knew what certain "human" contraptions are and I didn't get the sense that she learned it in mermaid school or in her education. Like for instance the soap opera that a human was watching on TV. How did Verona know that they are soap operas? I doubt they teach that in mermaid school. So, there are references in the book that I don't know if the author intentionally left out or the readers are suppose to just guess and assume it is the way it is.
Overall I did enjoy the book because it is very well written and there seems to be a bit of romantic struggle between Verona and a certain merman who saves her. If he's going to be in the next book I'm not sure but I do hope to see Verona grow into a well rounded individual.
Scales is written in the first person narrative with Verona as the main character. It is a rather short novel and I finished it in less than an hour. Although it is told through the eyes of Verona, there are parts where it's rather lengthy in descriptions but the descriptions are very vivid and innocent.
Verona is an outcast of sorts, a mermaid of the lower society and you immediately become drawn to her innocence and naivete. I do like Verona quite a bit and although her character development is a bit slow I am assuming we'll see more of her past, present, and future in the next installment.
The parts where it kind of got confusing for me (and maybe the author should have touched more on it) was when Verona knew what certain "human" contraptions are and I didn't get the sense that she learned it in mermaid school or in her education. Like for instance the soap opera that a human was watching on TV. How did Verona know that they are soap operas? I doubt they teach that in mermaid school. So, there are references in the book that I don't know if the author intentionally left out or the readers are suppose to just guess and assume it is the way it is.
Overall I did enjoy the book because it is very well written and there seems to be a bit of romantic struggle between Verona and a certain merman who saves her. If he's going to be in the next book I'm not sure but I do hope to see Verona grow into a well rounded individual.
February 17, 2018
When I randomly found this book on my phone, I thought I was going to be in for a unique story with mermaids. Instead, I realized that this was the same book as "Caught in the Current" from the Sirens and Scales box set, except it was from Verona's POV. This, however, was not bad.
Verona is a bottom feeder. She has been chosen to do the "Reckoning". This means that she will have to venture to the surface to gather information for the clan and be viewed as a valuable member of the society. They beat her at the start, and she is not even sure if she will be able to survive the night, much less the journey to the surface. This is when a merman named Bailey comes to save her, albeit reluctantly, and nurses her back to health. Now she must decide whether to go up to the surface and complete the Reckoning or to continue to hide out under the sea.
I much preferred this book to the book in the Sirens and Scales box set. That one was in Bailey's POV, and I just didn't like him as a character. At some points, I just wanted him to go away and stop offering his "help". Now, I could see that Verona was not as naive as I originally thought her to be. I liked her more, and I saw that she was not going to constantly put up with Bailey's verbal abuse.
This prequel to Salt actually made me want to read the novel, just to find out more of what happens to Verona. Now that I know that Bailey will not be as included in that book, I am more inclined to read it. I wish that this story had been included in the Sirens and Scales box set, but I can understand that some people wanted a new book. Either way, I am glad that I was able to find this gem on my phone.
I received this book for free from Instafreebie in exchange for my honest review.
Verona is a bottom feeder. She has been chosen to do the "Reckoning". This means that she will have to venture to the surface to gather information for the clan and be viewed as a valuable member of the society. They beat her at the start, and she is not even sure if she will be able to survive the night, much less the journey to the surface. This is when a merman named Bailey comes to save her, albeit reluctantly, and nurses her back to health. Now she must decide whether to go up to the surface and complete the Reckoning or to continue to hide out under the sea.
I much preferred this book to the book in the Sirens and Scales box set. That one was in Bailey's POV, and I just didn't like him as a character. At some points, I just wanted him to go away and stop offering his "help". Now, I could see that Verona was not as naive as I originally thought her to be. I liked her more, and I saw that she was not going to constantly put up with Bailey's verbal abuse.
This prequel to Salt actually made me want to read the novel, just to find out more of what happens to Verona. Now that I know that Bailey will not be as included in that book, I am more inclined to read it. I wish that this story had been included in the Sirens and Scales box set, but I can understand that some people wanted a new book. Either way, I am glad that I was able to find this gem on my phone.
I received this book for free from Instafreebie in exchange for my honest review.
May 2, 2020
I’m reluctant to call this a novella as only 70% of the 92 pages are included in the book, despite a large number of chapters. This appears at face value to be a typical mermaid tale. Although it is so short and under dramatized, it doesn’t go anywhere. A significant part of the story is taken up with Verona and the horses. She also watches a soap opera in order to learn about human culture, it is very Splash, but not really credible. I’m not convinced any of this drives the plot forward.
A large proportion of the writing comprises of sticky sentences, a lot of joining words. This may be an attempt to make the story more readable for the target audience. The layout and sentencing are very broken, but I guess this injects variety. A computer would suggest this gives the novel pace, I would argue that’s the storyline. Like most YA novels it is written in the first person singular which narrows the perspective but increases intimacy.
The saving grace is the first two chapters of the second novel which are included. Here it feels like the author has listened to criticism and the first few chapters have both drive and purpose. Like many YA novels, it deals with adolescence, bullying, and identity. By taking it out of the classroom and including mermaid social hierarchy, the author seeks to put a new twist on things. Whether this works, remains to be seen.
Marketing advocates splitting books up, ending on a cliff-hanger in order to sell more. Personally, I think this is just cheating the reader, leaving them with an incomplete ending. I would be tempted to either scrap or re-write the first book, as a bad first impression condemns the whole series and that’s a lot of work wasted.
A large proportion of the writing comprises of sticky sentences, a lot of joining words. This may be an attempt to make the story more readable for the target audience. The layout and sentencing are very broken, but I guess this injects variety. A computer would suggest this gives the novel pace, I would argue that’s the storyline. Like most YA novels it is written in the first person singular which narrows the perspective but increases intimacy.
The saving grace is the first two chapters of the second novel which are included. Here it feels like the author has listened to criticism and the first few chapters have both drive and purpose. Like many YA novels, it deals with adolescence, bullying, and identity. By taking it out of the classroom and including mermaid social hierarchy, the author seeks to put a new twist on things. Whether this works, remains to be seen.
Marketing advocates splitting books up, ending on a cliff-hanger in order to sell more. Personally, I think this is just cheating the reader, leaving them with an incomplete ending. I would be tempted to either scrap or re-write the first book, as a bad first impression condemns the whole series and that’s a lot of work wasted.
December 30, 2018
This was disappointing.
OK. I know that this is aimed at a different audience, but I never let a specific genre deter me from trying anything once.
Scales could have been a fascinating story, full of mystery and struggles of trying to live alongside humanity etc. Instead, for the most part, this story is about Verona, a mermaid bottom feeder.
Unlike a lot of fiction where the main character is downtrodden, excluded from society but determined to make a difference, this story is almost the complete opposite. Verona seems content to wallow, constantly reminding herself of her shortcomings and revelling in her incredibly low self esteem. There is little incentive for readers to draw anything positive from this story until near to the very end of this book. Her character is dull and uninteresting and, despite the fact that she is a mermaid, there is little actual fantasy involved in this story at all.
I'm sure that younger people will get something from this, and, people who have been bullied may be able to identify with Verona's character to a certain degree. But the lack of anything really happening in this story or any real positive action, leads me to wonder what the actual purpose of this story is. The faint trace of romance in the background gives at least something to build on for future instalments, but this first part is just incredibly bland.
Having read the excerpt for SALT, the second book in the series, I am happy to say that things are massively improved on from the very first chapter, so there is a silver lining.
Maybe I'm expecting too much, but I have read a lot of young adult fiction, and, for me, this just does not grab my attention.
OK. I know that this is aimed at a different audience, but I never let a specific genre deter me from trying anything once.
Scales could have been a fascinating story, full of mystery and struggles of trying to live alongside humanity etc. Instead, for the most part, this story is about Verona, a mermaid bottom feeder.
Unlike a lot of fiction where the main character is downtrodden, excluded from society but determined to make a difference, this story is almost the complete opposite. Verona seems content to wallow, constantly reminding herself of her shortcomings and revelling in her incredibly low self esteem. There is little incentive for readers to draw anything positive from this story until near to the very end of this book. Her character is dull and uninteresting and, despite the fact that she is a mermaid, there is little actual fantasy involved in this story at all.
I'm sure that younger people will get something from this, and, people who have been bullied may be able to identify with Verona's character to a certain degree. But the lack of anything really happening in this story or any real positive action, leads me to wonder what the actual purpose of this story is. The faint trace of romance in the background gives at least something to build on for future instalments, but this first part is just incredibly bland.
Having read the excerpt for SALT, the second book in the series, I am happy to say that things are massively improved on from the very first chapter, so there is a silver lining.
Maybe I'm expecting too much, but I have read a lot of young adult fiction, and, for me, this just does not grab my attention.
April 2, 2018
My first journey into this authors books. I found the world building in this story very interesting and different from other mermaid stories. The story is of a young mermaid shunned by her own people who must then leave the only place she's ever known to try and exist on her own. She finds surprising help along the way, but meanwhile she slowly learns of the human world above. The story made me feel bad of her treatment by her own kind but also gave some hope through her surprising protector. I wasn't happy about it being a cliffhanger, as it didn't indicate that it was a series, which I'm glad it is as there wasn't an ending to the story. I try not to do spoilers, but just the overall storyline and I hope I was able to give it to you.
August 31, 2017
This book took a different slant at mermaid life and the novel deals with the life of Verona a bottom-feeder who seems to be a sort of low caste in life amongst the mermaids. She was bullied and hurt both physically and psychologically and then exiled for a term away from all she knew to survive or die as she best knew how. She gets the help of a male of her species but this is so uncharacteristic and she is so not used to getting help she does not know how to react to this! A good story but i think it could have had more happening as it keeps going round in the same circle so to speak and it ended most abruptly!
April 15, 2018
I am glad I started reading this novella before I started Salt as it gave a bit of background to how Verona was treated. She was not treated the best being a bottom feeder yet I do wish the author would have gone into more detail of how the mermaid world worked.
Verona will have three choices that she has to chose from while staying away from her people.
I think this mermaid series by this author is going to be pretty good. I plan on reading more to find out what Verona will choose and how she will survive.
Verona will have three choices that she has to chose from while staying away from her people.
I think this mermaid series by this author is going to be pretty good. I plan on reading more to find out what Verona will choose and how she will survive.
September 8, 2019
I love the world-building in this. It’s so vivid and I really could see what the author was painting with her words. I love the mermaid angle and it’s such an interesting concept.
The plotline is well-paced. I loved the suspense and Verona’s journey. It’s heartwarming and captivating. Pauline Creeden’s writing is wonderful.
I recommend checking this series out! Fantastic world-building, believable characters, and a fun plot. Check it out!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Promotional Book Tours. All opinions are my own.*
The plotline is well-paced. I loved the suspense and Verona’s journey. It’s heartwarming and captivating. Pauline Creeden’s writing is wonderful.
I recommend checking this series out! Fantastic world-building, believable characters, and a fun plot. Check it out!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Promotional Book Tours. All opinions are my own.*
June 22, 2017
"Bottom feeder" sounds disgusting, but Verona is really considered the lowest of the low within her clan. Put upon and bullied all her life, and now sent out to prove herself worthy of acceptance, she first has to learn the skills to catch food and keep herself alive. Help comes grudgingly from an unexpected source. She wanders the ocean, hiding from clan members whilst trying to decide whether to go onto the land or not. I look forward to reading more.
September 9, 2017
I like the narrator, the world building, and the narrative voice. The setup is promising. But there is just not much here overall and the pacing is not good. It feels like an early draft of the first third of a novel. Maybe I'll like "Salt" better, but I'm not chomping at the bit to find out. Additionally, there was an irritating amount of word repetition I think another read through would have caught and fixed.
January 1, 2020
This is the very first introduction to the story of Verona, a young mermaid thrown out of her underwater community to survive on her own, or not, on false charges of criminal behavior, which don't matter anyway as her main struggle becomes to stay alive.
Life as the village scapegoat would seem the worst preparation for this struggle, but she receives unexpected aid. When she finds herself on land, her ability to trust in human kindness opens up like a blooming flower.
Life as the village scapegoat would seem the worst preparation for this struggle, but she receives unexpected aid. When she finds herself on land, her ability to trust in human kindness opens up like a blooming flower.
September 16, 2017
I used this book like a palette cleanser or a reset button. I needed something different from what I usually read and this was it. I liked the story, even though this is just the beginning and more stories follow this one I think it may have been a little to young for my taste and I won't be continuing the series.
May 14, 2018
Okay so Submerged and this book are of about the same time frame just from two different point of views. I enjoyed both and loved both points of view. It's the first time with this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it, clean and well written. The characters are well formed. They both lead to the first book called Salt, which I have and will start reading.
February 7, 2019
It’s a fast read, but a good Novella
Since it’s a .5 Story, I’m assuming most people start with book 1, I didn’t.
The character made me want to know more about her, and to see her grown more brave.
I’m interested in reading more in the series. So it’s a good solid story.
I do feel incomplete, but supporting stories are like that, especially with cliff hangers.
Since it’s a .5 Story, I’m assuming most people start with book 1, I didn’t.
The character made me want to know more about her, and to see her grown more brave.
I’m interested in reading more in the series. So it’s a good solid story.
I do feel incomplete, but supporting stories are like that, especially with cliff hangers.
May 31, 2019
I liked this book. It was a cute short story about a mermaid who has been exiled and how she must learn to defend for herself to survive as a bottom feeder who isn’t accepted in society.
I really enjoyed this as a short story and feel it’s a good read for when you just want something small and sweet.
I really enjoyed this as a short story and feel it’s a good read for when you just want something small and sweet.
May 7, 2017
Swimmingly stunningly
An awesome intriguing her story that keeps moving through the well known waters surrounding the Chesapeake bay and northernmost areas including the wild ponies.
An awesome intriguing her story that keeps moving through the well known waters surrounding the Chesapeake bay and northernmost areas including the wild ponies.
August 27, 2017
Good book
I really liked how this was written. It was a great book to read on a rainy day. I loved how the characters are and how the story flows. I look forward to reading more by this author.
I really liked how this was written. It was a great book to read on a rainy day. I loved how the characters are and how the story flows. I look forward to reading more by this author.
September 13, 2017
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Very different mer story. Unexpected story of life as a mermaid. Loved how it is not your typical mermaid. Not your little mermaid life in the sea. Great take on a different Society of mer people.
Very different mer story. Unexpected story of life as a mermaid. Loved how it is not your typical mermaid. Not your little mermaid life in the sea. Great take on a different Society of mer people.
August 11, 2019
Scales is basically a repeat of Sirens and Scales's Caught in the Current except it's from Verona's point of view instead of Bailey's. In fact, Scales did not go as far as Caught in the Current, a little disappointing. However, I am looking forward to Salt answering all the questions.
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