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Deep Water
When her mum vanishes, Danni moves to a tiny Cornish fishing village with Dad – where the locals treat her like a monster. As the village's dark, disturbing past bubbles to the surface, Danni discovers that she's not who – or what – she thought she was. And the only way to save her family from a bitter curse is to embrace her incredible new gift.
"Outstanding... I raced through it." - Malorie Blackman
"Outstanding... I raced through it." - Malorie Blackman
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
6 people are currently reading
562 people want to read
About the author
Lu Hersey
3 books17 followersLu Hersey worked as an advertising copywriter until she escaped to become a librarian and study for an MA in writing for young people at Bath Spa University. She shares her house with a surfeit of young adults who won’t leave home and keep calling her “Mum” – although, surprisingly, she finds their dialogue, strangely disturbing habits and erratic sleeping patterns a constant source of inspiration. She lives in Bristol, but her heart is in Cornwall.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
July 5, 2015
When Danni’s mum goes missing, she is forced to go and live with her father in a small Cornish seaside village. As Danni arrives in the village of Ancrows, there’s an almost “Wicker Man” like vibe, with the inhabitants being very reluctant to discuss the events of the past. A past that involves Danni’s family - something her mum never talked about. Fortunately, Danni isn’t totally alone – her best friend Levi visits her from the city and Elliott, a boy who works in her dad’s shop gives her reason to think that the situation isn’t all bad.
This is a beautifully written book, full of a natural magic so well woven into the world that it almost had me believing it was real. I really loved the way that old West Country myth and legend has been given a very modern take, as you discover along with Danni that the old ways have not been forgotten, that hers is not the only family with hidden gifts - and that not all of those gifts are benevolent.
This story begins with a mystery, then has several truly magical moments as Danni learns the nature of the family “gift.” A gift some believe to be the work of the devil. Those discoveries lead up to an exciting race against time as Danni discovers how the events of the past and her mum’s current predicament are directly linked. This leads her to question the motives of those around her, just as she most desperately needs their help to prevent a terrible tragedy from occurring and save her mum.
This book has it all – mystery, excitement, menacing antagonists and traditional Celtic legend with a dash of romance thrown in for good measure. A great book for anyone who loves magical fiction but is bored with the usual staples of vampires, werewolves and witches. I’ve read it twice and it was just as good the second time.
This is a beautifully written book, full of a natural magic so well woven into the world that it almost had me believing it was real. I really loved the way that old West Country myth and legend has been given a very modern take, as you discover along with Danni that the old ways have not been forgotten, that hers is not the only family with hidden gifts - and that not all of those gifts are benevolent.
This story begins with a mystery, then has several truly magical moments as Danni learns the nature of the family “gift.” A gift some believe to be the work of the devil. Those discoveries lead up to an exciting race against time as Danni discovers how the events of the past and her mum’s current predicament are directly linked. This leads her to question the motives of those around her, just as she most desperately needs their help to prevent a terrible tragedy from occurring and save her mum.
This book has it all – mystery, excitement, menacing antagonists and traditional Celtic legend with a dash of romance thrown in for good measure. A great book for anyone who loves magical fiction but is bored with the usual staples of vampires, werewolves and witches. I’ve read it twice and it was just as good the second time.
July 1, 2015
Deep Water, by Lu Hersey, is a children’s novel (age 12+) set in Cornwall, England. Taking myth, folklore, witchcraft and ancient beliefs as inspiration, it weaves a contemporary tale about a group of teenagers caught up in a legacy of family secrets. Puberty is a time of change. What if that change also involved the mastering of mysterious abilities?
The protagonist, fifteen year old Danni, comes home from school one day to a cold and empty house. When her mother fails to return from work, and has still not appeared by morning, Danni knows that something is wrong. Such a disappearance with no explanation is out of character. Her mother fusses about the smallest of things and would not leave her only child alone for so long without contact.
Danni moves in with her father and starts to uncover clues as to what may have happened. She learns that the town in which she is now living is close to where her mother grew up. Realising that she knows little of her mother’s past she determines to find out more.
Danni encounters people who remember her mother and some of them react to her with hostility. She befriends her father’s assistant, an older teenager named Eliot, and discovers that he too comes from a family with mythical powers. As the town’s history is revealed Danni begins to understand why her mother left. She embraces her newfound knowledge but finds herself in danger. The inexplicable is regarded as a threat by those who seek power and control.
The writing is assured and original. The disconnect between adults and teenagers is well represented as are the relationships between the children. Although the story requires an acceptance of possibilities, it is interesting to reflect on those things in life which are given credence and those which are dismissed. The Christian church may be powerful and have written much of this island’s history, but there have always been other beliefs.
An enjoyable read and one which I would recommend to young teenagers. The what ifs may inspire some pondering.
My copy of this book was provided gratis by the publisher, Usborne.
The protagonist, fifteen year old Danni, comes home from school one day to a cold and empty house. When her mother fails to return from work, and has still not appeared by morning, Danni knows that something is wrong. Such a disappearance with no explanation is out of character. Her mother fusses about the smallest of things and would not leave her only child alone for so long without contact.
Danni moves in with her father and starts to uncover clues as to what may have happened. She learns that the town in which she is now living is close to where her mother grew up. Realising that she knows little of her mother’s past she determines to find out more.
Danni encounters people who remember her mother and some of them react to her with hostility. She befriends her father’s assistant, an older teenager named Eliot, and discovers that he too comes from a family with mythical powers. As the town’s history is revealed Danni begins to understand why her mother left. She embraces her newfound knowledge but finds herself in danger. The inexplicable is regarded as a threat by those who seek power and control.
The writing is assured and original. The disconnect between adults and teenagers is well represented as are the relationships between the children. Although the story requires an acceptance of possibilities, it is interesting to reflect on those things in life which are given credence and those which are dismissed. The Christian church may be powerful and have written much of this island’s history, but there have always been other beliefs.
An enjoyable read and one which I would recommend to young teenagers. The what ifs may inspire some pondering.
My copy of this book was provided gratis by the publisher, Usborne.
May 26, 2016
Very interesting take on local legends. The characters were engaging and some were downright terrifying! Although the book ended without any loose threads, it left me wanting to read more. My 12 year old son also enjoyed this book tremendously, in fact I read it on his recommendation. Well done Lu Hersey.
August 15, 2015
So what do I think?
Well, for starters I agree entirely with Malorie Blackman's endorsement on the front cover: Outstanding...I raced through it.
Lu Hersey's style is so easy to read (and I mean that as a big compliment), that I felt like I was gliding through the story in a lovely smooth swoosh. I immediately identified with Danni in her modern day home, with separated parents and mum out at work. But straight away we're alerted to the fact that something strange is happening. Written in the first person, present tense, we experience exactly what is happening to Danni by Lu's fantastic use of the five senses and clear depiction of what is happening. The setting of Cornwall is very alluring and mystical; and Dad, a New age guy with dreadlocks and a nose ring is not your regular Dad in a story.
The action unfolds quickly and dramatically, with plenty of mystery and intrigue along the way. As Danni tries to discover what happened to her mother, she discovers new family and old ways, meaning that her life will never be the same again.
I really enjoyed this, especially the blend of everyday contemporary life with mythical mysteries in a very plausible way. The copy I read was from the Teen section of our local library, but I would say it's probably best suited to 12+.
I think it would suit readers who enjoyed books like Valentine Joe, Boy in the Tower and A Boy Called Hope, and are now ready to move onto something a little darker.
Let's hope this is made into a British produced film!
Pippa Wilson
@hellopipski
hellopipski.wordpress.com
Well, for starters I agree entirely with Malorie Blackman's endorsement on the front cover: Outstanding...I raced through it.
Lu Hersey's style is so easy to read (and I mean that as a big compliment), that I felt like I was gliding through the story in a lovely smooth swoosh. I immediately identified with Danni in her modern day home, with separated parents and mum out at work. But straight away we're alerted to the fact that something strange is happening. Written in the first person, present tense, we experience exactly what is happening to Danni by Lu's fantastic use of the five senses and clear depiction of what is happening. The setting of Cornwall is very alluring and mystical; and Dad, a New age guy with dreadlocks and a nose ring is not your regular Dad in a story.
The action unfolds quickly and dramatically, with plenty of mystery and intrigue along the way. As Danni tries to discover what happened to her mother, she discovers new family and old ways, meaning that her life will never be the same again.
I really enjoyed this, especially the blend of everyday contemporary life with mythical mysteries in a very plausible way. The copy I read was from the Teen section of our local library, but I would say it's probably best suited to 12+.
I think it would suit readers who enjoyed books like Valentine Joe, Boy in the Tower and A Boy Called Hope, and are now ready to move onto something a little darker.
Let's hope this is made into a British produced film!
Pippa Wilson
@hellopipski
hellopipski.wordpress.com
August 8, 2017
I love this compelling rite-of-passage tale, with its fine counterbalance between the reality we know and the ‘other’ we may glimpse but never quite believe. Lu Hersey’s powerful sense of place and vivid characters anchor the story, draw the reader in. Protagonist Danni, her family and friends, are distinctive and involving – I love their varied ages and styles and issues, their equality and diversity, how they move through the story just being who they are, dealing with life. I would know them anywhere. The antagonists, too, are deftly sketched; I was curious to know more about their own secrets, their side of the ‘otherness’ that permeates this book.
But that would have meant a longer and very different, perhaps less focused tale. And Lu’s writing is supremely focused ‒ powerful and beautiful and deceptively simple. Her storytelling never loses sight of what for me is the tale's crux: that secrets ‒ even those kept for love ‒ wield a divisive power. And that it is never too late for truth.
But in the end I was left with a sense of longing, for that deep water itself. Those scenes were perfect in themselves, set in the story like sea glass. I wanted so much more of that ‒ so close I could feel the current against my skin, so darkly vivid I found myself holding my breath while reading.
Please, Lu – give us more!
But that would have meant a longer and very different, perhaps less focused tale. And Lu’s writing is supremely focused ‒ powerful and beautiful and deceptively simple. Her storytelling never loses sight of what for me is the tale's crux: that secrets ‒ even those kept for love ‒ wield a divisive power. And that it is never too late for truth.
But in the end I was left with a sense of longing, for that deep water itself. Those scenes were perfect in themselves, set in the story like sea glass. I wanted so much more of that ‒ so close I could feel the current against my skin, so darkly vivid I found myself holding my breath while reading.
Please, Lu – give us more!
July 15, 2015
A brilliant debut from Lu! The setting and story are unique - I don't think I've read a YA book set in Cornwall before, and much of it is deeply rooted in Cornish folklore. The plot is gripping and there's this great sense of unease permeating the book. I won't spoil too much, because it's more fun to discover it for yourself, but heartily recommended for fans of mystery and magic.
November 23, 2015
Absolutely loved 'Deep Water'! Danni was a wonderful character and you were immediately drawn into her story and wanted to know the depths of the secrets her family were hiding! I loved the relationship she had with best friend Levi and her new friend Elliot and I particularly liked the way the parents in the story were so well drawn. The connections between Danni and her mum were really moving and Danni's dad was fabulous! The setting of the Cornish coast was really evocative and I loved the mix of contemporary setting with traditional Celtic legends and folklore. Danni's struggle to come to terms with who she was played out really well against the back drop of suspicion against the outsider and those who are different! A really brilliant read...and I really hope this is the beginning of a series and not a stand alone novel as I am so keen to enter Danni's world again and see how she handles the truth of who she is!
September 22, 2015
I read this book in less than a day, as although the action seems to build up gradually in slow-burning fashion, even before the end of Chapter Two I found myself rushing through the pages to find out what happens next - Malorie Blackman is right, you will race through it. The story is somewhat darker in tone as well than I had expected, with hints of Jamaica Inn and The Wicker Man, and with some brilliantly inspired twists along the way. This is an elegant and beautifully written book, by a talented author who, like the best of them, almost makes it look easy - definitely one to look out for in the future...
November 11, 2019
This a "fantasy" YA novel, but one of the better ones in my opinion.
Why?
It took me to visit locations and a culture that I was unfamiliar with, and did a good enough job of describing them.
It treated old local myths with respect and tried to look at what would it be like if this were true?
The interactions between characters were believeable but still interesting because occasionally unexpected or else nicely drawn.
There were bits of mystery (reasonably easily solved, but hey, they were questions you cared about and wanted answers to)
There was a bit of thrill and action (well done and realistic)
There was a satisfying resolution. Good is rewarded, mysteries are resolved, love and friendship found, hate and evil overcome. Even the fantastical is preserved, but as just an element of the environment, not as the main focus.
What could have been better:
The writing was occasionally awkward.
The nature and source of the evil is not well developed. This is important in YA books, I think. If you are going to introduce evil, it should be explained. If people are evil it should be recognised that few people come into the world evil. They grow that way through their own temperment in interaction with their environment and the belief systems of the cultures they are in. Lay it out and make it understandable. Let us pity as well as fear the evildoer.
But I'd read more of Ms Hersey's works, in the anticipation of hours enjoyably spent.
Why?
It took me to visit locations and a culture that I was unfamiliar with, and did a good enough job of describing them.
It treated old local myths with respect and tried to look at what would it be like if this were true?
The interactions between characters were believeable but still interesting because occasionally unexpected or else nicely drawn.
There were bits of mystery (reasonably easily solved, but hey, they were questions you cared about and wanted answers to)
There was a bit of thrill and action (well done and realistic)
There was a satisfying resolution. Good is rewarded, mysteries are resolved, love and friendship found, hate and evil overcome. Even the fantastical is preserved, but as just an element of the environment, not as the main focus.
What could have been better:
The writing was occasionally awkward.
The nature and source of the evil is not well developed. This is important in YA books, I think. If you are going to introduce evil, it should be explained. If people are evil it should be recognised that few people come into the world evil. They grow that way through their own temperment in interaction with their environment and the belief systems of the cultures they are in. Lay it out and make it understandable. Let us pity as well as fear the evildoer.
But I'd read more of Ms Hersey's works, in the anticipation of hours enjoyably spent.
September 8, 2019
interesting, but a bit weird book about cults and witchcraft. also, i thought it missed an ending - we don't really know what happened with Crawford and if it can happen again.
May 7, 2021
I received this book from Usborne in exchange for an honest review.
Deep Water follows Danni, a girl who’s forced to temporarily move into her quirky father’s eerie town when her mother suddenly goes missing. In her search for her mother, Danni discovers that there was a lot more to herself than she ever imagined.
This book was intensely atmospheric. I read this during one of the hottest months this year, but this book never failed to transport me to the damp, gloomy town of Ancrows – where the weather was wet and the people were strange.
The elements of magic in this book felt natural, and tied together well with the strange town and its inhabitants. A lot of this book’s success was owed to the setting. Ancrows was eerie and discomforting in the best way – which is why I’ve recommended this book to fans of Call of Cthulhu: Dark Corners Of The Earth. You know that feeling of unease and mystery that you feel the minute Jack Walters arrives in Innsmouth? This book has some of that. It’s great.
It is, however, a Middle-grade book, so it didn’t get too heavy on the dread. In terms of giving readers a modern take on old folklore, Hersey did a great job. It still held some of that old wonder, but with a modern twist, which was nice.
This is a book that you could race through. Hersey’s writing style is simple, and the plot doesn’t dawdle about unnecessarily. I wasn’t a big fan of the characters, but the story and the world building completely made up for that.
All in all, Deep Water was a nice, compelling read that I’d happily recommend for anyone who likes myth, folklore and stories about family. For me, it wins big points on atmosphere alone, so I’d go as far as to say that I’d buy it for my younger cousins, who are the book’s intended audience. The way this book transports its readers will knock their socks off.
This review and more here
Deep Water follows Danni, a girl who’s forced to temporarily move into her quirky father’s eerie town when her mother suddenly goes missing. In her search for her mother, Danni discovers that there was a lot more to herself than she ever imagined.
This book was intensely atmospheric. I read this during one of the hottest months this year, but this book never failed to transport me to the damp, gloomy town of Ancrows – where the weather was wet and the people were strange.
The elements of magic in this book felt natural, and tied together well with the strange town and its inhabitants. A lot of this book’s success was owed to the setting. Ancrows was eerie and discomforting in the best way – which is why I’ve recommended this book to fans of Call of Cthulhu: Dark Corners Of The Earth. You know that feeling of unease and mystery that you feel the minute Jack Walters arrives in Innsmouth? This book has some of that. It’s great.
It is, however, a Middle-grade book, so it didn’t get too heavy on the dread. In terms of giving readers a modern take on old folklore, Hersey did a great job. It still held some of that old wonder, but with a modern twist, which was nice.
This is a book that you could race through. Hersey’s writing style is simple, and the plot doesn’t dawdle about unnecessarily. I wasn’t a big fan of the characters, but the story and the world building completely made up for that.
All in all, Deep Water was a nice, compelling read that I’d happily recommend for anyone who likes myth, folklore and stories about family. For me, it wins big points on atmosphere alone, so I’d go as far as to say that I’d buy it for my younger cousins, who are the book’s intended audience. The way this book transports its readers will knock their socks off.
This review and more here
December 5, 2015
You can find my full review of Deep Water on my speculative fiction book blog.
Deep Water is a young adult novel, at the more literary and atmospheric end of the genre. Our hero, Danni, lives with her mother in England. One day, her mother does not return from work, and Danni slowly begins to suspect something may be wrong. When her mom still isn't back in the early hours of the morning, she raises the alarm, calls her (divorced) father, and waits for news that can only be terrible.
While the police search for her missing mother, they insist that Danni has to be in the care of an adult, so her scatterbrained hippie father is the only palatable option. Danni temporarily moves in with him. He happens to live in Cornwall now, where her mom is originally from.
There, Danni begins to investigate her own mother's history, while meeting the locals, some of whom are instantly, superstitiously hostile of her. And there's a dark history here, centering around the old chapel and a terrible deed that happened there...
Deep Water is a rich novel, slowly building up tension and a sense of dread, but also a sense of mystery. It's very much a novel where place is a character - Cornwall is in the DNA of the novel just as much as a love of the mythical.
This isn't a cute little fairy tale - it's a thriller with mythical, magical elements, deeply invested in coastlines and landscapes and place and small community life. It's the sort of story that all too rarely makes it into cinema screens - perhaps the superb Ondine is the closest comparison in terms of atmosphere.
If you like Alan Garner's novels, you'll enjoy Deep Water just as much. It's really rather good.
Deep Water is a young adult novel, at the more literary and atmospheric end of the genre. Our hero, Danni, lives with her mother in England. One day, her mother does not return from work, and Danni slowly begins to suspect something may be wrong. When her mom still isn't back in the early hours of the morning, she raises the alarm, calls her (divorced) father, and waits for news that can only be terrible.
While the police search for her missing mother, they insist that Danni has to be in the care of an adult, so her scatterbrained hippie father is the only palatable option. Danni temporarily moves in with him. He happens to live in Cornwall now, where her mom is originally from.
There, Danni begins to investigate her own mother's history, while meeting the locals, some of whom are instantly, superstitiously hostile of her. And there's a dark history here, centering around the old chapel and a terrible deed that happened there...
Deep Water is a rich novel, slowly building up tension and a sense of dread, but also a sense of mystery. It's very much a novel where place is a character - Cornwall is in the DNA of the novel just as much as a love of the mythical.
This isn't a cute little fairy tale - it's a thriller with mythical, magical elements, deeply invested in coastlines and landscapes and place and small community life. It's the sort of story that all too rarely makes it into cinema screens - perhaps the superb Ondine is the closest comparison in terms of atmosphere.
If you like Alan Garner's novels, you'll enjoy Deep Water just as much. It's really rather good.
June 26, 2017
The storyline of this book was brilliant and unexpected. At the beginning, I thought I had the book figured out and I kind of entered it with a pessimistic view but by the end, my thoughts changed. It isn’t a cliché book, except maybe the ending but that doesn’t spoil the book at all. If I had to describe the book in 3 words, I would use original, intriguing and fascinating because Lu Hersey did a brilliant job of taking an idea and making it her own.
The characters were well presented and developed and I felt as if I were in the story with them. Some characters I grew to love while others I have a loathing for which was brilliant because it makes me so much more emotionally invested in the book.
However, the reason why this book isn’t 5/5 stars is because of the writing style. For me, it wasn’t very advanced and almost too simple that I felt like giving up a couple of times. The sentences are short and there are no interesting words which sparked my interest which is why this book is only a three. To me, grammar and sentences are very important in developing a book which is why I am harsh with the grading I give.
The characters were well presented and developed and I felt as if I were in the story with them. Some characters I grew to love while others I have a loathing for which was brilliant because it makes me so much more emotionally invested in the book.
However, the reason why this book isn’t 5/5 stars is because of the writing style. For me, it wasn’t very advanced and almost too simple that I felt like giving up a couple of times. The sentences are short and there are no interesting words which sparked my interest which is why this book is only a three. To me, grammar and sentences are very important in developing a book which is why I am harsh with the grading I give.
June 13, 2016
Got me out of my reading slump! Yay. It was a nice book. I think I might've loved it more when I was a bit yonger but still I found the story and its surroundings and the characters wonderful and loved it.
One silly lil thing I was absolutely excited about was that the main character didn't like Coke. Lol. This was the first book that I've ever read where the main vharacter doesn't love Coke and order it in every damn dining scene. At least I feel so. This drew my attention and I really liked it. Haha.
I really liked Danni and Levi's friendship. It was really simple from the start and it wasn't messed with. And I'm happy there wasn't any love-triangle-ish thing going on. There kind of could've been but I'm happy that there wasnt. They were 15 anyway though so..
Really nice book. The plot was quite predictable-I wasn't that surprised with anything that much but that was allrigt. Did not know exactly what the deal with Danni and the water would be when I started reading so that was fun to find out.
I recommend you check it out!
One silly lil thing I was absolutely excited about was that the main character didn't like Coke. Lol. This was the first book that I've ever read where the main vharacter doesn't love Coke and order it in every damn dining scene. At least I feel so. This drew my attention and I really liked it. Haha.
I really liked Danni and Levi's friendship. It was really simple from the start and it wasn't messed with. And I'm happy there wasn't any love-triangle-ish thing going on. There kind of could've been but I'm happy that there wasnt. They were 15 anyway though so..
Really nice book. The plot was quite predictable-I wasn't that surprised with anything that much but that was allrigt. Did not know exactly what the deal with Danni and the water would be when I started reading so that was fun to find out.
I recommend you check it out!
October 15, 2015
This is a new book in my library that my teen book club got first choice of. I enjoyed the book. I felt like it would be better for a slightly younger audience however. Maybe thirteen/fourteen year olds. The story is well written and the characters have all been developed sufficiently.
It's the story of Danni, who's mum goes missing one night. Danni goes and stays with her father for awhile, where she finds a couple of people react oddly to her, they curse her. The plot line is quite simple and a little cliche, in the middle of the book you know exactly how it's going to pan out. Still it's a good read.
It's the story of Danni, who's mum goes missing one night. Danni goes and stays with her father for awhile, where she finds a couple of people react oddly to her, they curse her. The plot line is quite simple and a little cliche, in the middle of the book you know exactly how it's going to pan out. Still it's a good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2015
Swietna ksiazka dla milosnikow ksiazek dla nastolatkow z nuta fantazji. Polecam - interesujace postaci, intrygujaca historia i ciekawie wplecione legendy.
Thanks Lu for mentioning this book to me on the train journey we shared - here's the review in Polish as promised and to translate - I really enjoyed it. Will be looking out for more!
Thanks Lu for mentioning this book to me on the train journey we shared - here's the review in Polish as promised and to translate - I really enjoyed it. Will be looking out for more!
June 9, 2016
Beautiful story - has that touch of magical realism which resonates deeply, a feeling of truth on some forgotten level inside. It is truthful in its contemporary depiction of family and relationships which anchors the sense of timelessness in a recognizable present. Very enjoyable, the new Susan Cooper? I look forward to reading the author's next book.
November 6, 2015
Thoroughly enjoyed this book even though I'm far too old to be its target audience. A very exciting read. Well-written, clear consice language, engaging protagonist. I can imagine it's even better when you are actually a young adult instead of an old one.
July 30, 2015
A beautiful and unusual story, full of strange twists and turns and a reminder that all around us may not be exactly as it seems. A great reed for the summer.
January 11, 2016
for me it was an oke book. I didn't love it I didn't hate it, it was just alright. kind of slow in the middle and I expect more magic/ elemental stuff
March 3, 2017
I really enjoyed this book, especially the descriptions of Cornish folklore and places, and the realistic and engaging characters.
September 7, 2017
2.5 This book was good - enjoyable - okayish. The plot was fast paced and Levi was a fun character.
It was however mostly so frustrating I honestly thought about giving up a few times. I think it less time was spent thinking about "questions" avoiding "questions" (none of these questions ever get said so honestly often I was at a loss of what these many "questions" could be) and more time was spent just asking or answering the questions this would have been a far far better book.. also far shorter.
Also for an author that claims to love Cornwall it sure is described as extremely darb boring and just generally dull. Which I thought was odd.
Good points .. I loved the description and idea of Dennis Nans house - It was so vividly written I wish more time had been spent there and just in general with Dennis Nan I enjoyed her.
The whole "changing" scene as well, I enjoyed the idea of it and basically the whole thing.
The writing .. sometimes felt like it was written maybe by someone who learned English as a second language ? Some of the word choices were odd.. I can only think of the elbow graze example (basically the protagonist grazes her elbow - a bad graze .. which in my experience is still a graze - and our protagonist still soldiers on.. like my daughter .. when she was three ) but I know there were quite a few other examples when I thought "does the author understand the word she's using here .. because despite the Oxford English Dictionary definition it doesn't produce the imagery that is probably being aimed for.
Also the dialect was sooooo strange .. I really don't understand the way Robert was meant to be speaking.. what even was that? I just got weird 1930s American gangster vibe
Anyways despite the above the writing was very good the plot and flow of the story was nice, even and despite character and whatever problems easy to read - nothing was too taxing and I generally had my interests held and enjoyed myself
I thought a few different things would happen which didn't and what not, so I was made think about things and that's always a good sign.
Overall I may recommend this but I'm more likely to recommend "song of the sea" which is an animated film I watched about Selkies, which was beautifully illustrated, interesting and possibly the reason I couldn't rate this higher. However that's a film and in book terms I'm not sure I've read anything much about Selkies before .
It was however mostly so frustrating I honestly thought about giving up a few times. I think it less time was spent thinking about "questions" avoiding "questions" (none of these questions ever get said so honestly often I was at a loss of what these many "questions" could be) and more time was spent just asking or answering the questions this would have been a far far better book.. also far shorter.
Also for an author that claims to love Cornwall it sure is described as extremely darb boring and just generally dull. Which I thought was odd.
Good points .. I loved the description and idea of Dennis Nans house - It was so vividly written I wish more time had been spent there and just in general with Dennis Nan I enjoyed her.
The whole "changing" scene as well, I enjoyed the idea of it and basically the whole thing.
The writing .. sometimes felt like it was written maybe by someone who learned English as a second language ? Some of the word choices were odd.. I can only think of the elbow graze example (basically the protagonist grazes her elbow - a bad graze .. which in my experience is still a graze - and our protagonist still soldiers on.. like my daughter .. when she was three ) but I know there were quite a few other examples when I thought "does the author understand the word she's using here .. because despite the Oxford English Dictionary definition it doesn't produce the imagery that is probably being aimed for.
Also the dialect was sooooo strange .. I really don't understand the way Robert was meant to be speaking.. what even was that? I just got weird 1930s American gangster vibe
Anyways despite the above the writing was very good the plot and flow of the story was nice, even and despite character and whatever problems easy to read - nothing was too taxing and I generally had my interests held and enjoyed myself
I thought a few different things would happen which didn't and what not, so I was made think about things and that's always a good sign.
Overall I may recommend this but I'm more likely to recommend "song of the sea" which is an animated film I watched about Selkies, which was beautifully illustrated, interesting and possibly the reason I couldn't rate this higher. However that's a film and in book terms I'm not sure I've read anything much about Selkies before .
May 14, 2019
Danni is just your everyday modern teenage girl in Southwest England: she goes to school, hangs out with her mate Levi, is always wearing mascara, has the separated parents YA trope, doesn't get on with her mum and is hellishly embarassed by her hippy dad. Everything's normal until her mum goes missing, and some people in the little village where her dad takes her to live are more than a little odd. They're downright hostile, and Danni can't figure out why until pieces start falling into place as to what exactly happened to her mum and that there might be more to her family than meets the eye...
First things first, this is definately the lower end of YA. It's clean and simple; Deep Water it may be, but the character emotions and relationships are kept shallow. If you want something deep and meaningful as an older reader, this is not it. It is a very good read for the intended 12+ age group, full of mystery, suspence, realistic teen characters (not prone to YA trope angst-tantrum moodswings!) and creepy details based on Cornish folklore.
The protagonists are likeable, the antagonists suitably menacing in their own special way (someone reviewing mentioned "The Wicker Man" for good reason). Danni, Elliot the love interest and Levi the best friend are a good trio with believable dialogue and interactions. Romance is in the air, but it's of the sweet rather than the sickly or steamy varieties that turn up on YA.
If it's a good supernatural mystery for younger teen readers you want, then this would fit the bill. It's certainly nice to read something in the genre that is so very rooted in the British Isles!
First things first, this is definately the lower end of YA. It's clean and simple; Deep Water it may be, but the character emotions and relationships are kept shallow. If you want something deep and meaningful as an older reader, this is not it. It is a very good read for the intended 12+ age group, full of mystery, suspence, realistic teen characters (not prone to YA trope angst-tantrum moodswings!) and creepy details based on Cornish folklore.
The protagonists are likeable, the antagonists suitably menacing in their own special way (someone reviewing mentioned "The Wicker Man" for good reason). Danni, Elliot the love interest and Levi the best friend are a good trio with believable dialogue and interactions. Romance is in the air, but it's of the sweet rather than the sickly or steamy varieties that turn up on YA.
If it's a good supernatural mystery for younger teen readers you want, then this would fit the bill. It's certainly nice to read something in the genre that is so very rooted in the British Isles!
October 15, 2024
Lu Hersey's debut YA novel is an enthralling and atmospheric tale that expertly blends Celtic mythology with a gripping coming-of-age story. The book follows Danni, a teenage girl whose life is turned upside down when her mother mysteriously vanishes. As Danni is sent to live with her father in a small coastal village, she discovers strange truths about her heritage and an ancient power lurking beneath the surface.
Hersey’s writing is captivating, with vivid descriptions of the coastal setting that pull you into the eerie, otherworldly atmosphere. The novel beautifully explores themes of identity, family secrets, and the powerful connection between humans and nature. Danni is a compelling protagonist—strong, resourceful, and determined—making her journey of self-discovery both thrilling and relatable.
The integration of Celtic folklore adds a magical depth to the story, and the pace is perfectly balanced between tense mystery and emotional growth. "Deep Water" is a wonderfully crafted, spellbinding tale that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Lu Hersey has created a unique and unforgettable story that will resonate with fans of mythology and YA fantasy. Highly recommended!
Hersey’s writing is captivating, with vivid descriptions of the coastal setting that pull you into the eerie, otherworldly atmosphere. The novel beautifully explores themes of identity, family secrets, and the powerful connection between humans and nature. Danni is a compelling protagonist—strong, resourceful, and determined—making her journey of self-discovery both thrilling and relatable.
The integration of Celtic folklore adds a magical depth to the story, and the pace is perfectly balanced between tense mystery and emotional growth. "Deep Water" is a wonderfully crafted, spellbinding tale that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Lu Hersey has created a unique and unforgettable story that will resonate with fans of mythology and YA fantasy. Highly recommended!
April 25, 2019
Book description :
After her mom was sent to the hospital because of an accident, Danni start having weird dreams and water started to leak through her palm. She soon discover there was more behind her mother accident, as well as her past.
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Thoughts and Opinion :
So I went into this stories with quite low expectation. But this is a truly remarkable story. This is story was so well planned, like every elements come to play in this stories. Every chapter in this stories is so intense, it makes you want to keep on reading. It draw you in right at the start, and that's what I love most about this book. I like the pacing of it, it's not slow which is good for once. It quite hard to talk about this book without spoiling anything. Let's just say the events that take place in this is very intriguing and remarkably written. Though, I would say some parts I read it but didn't really pay attention. Like when you are skimming through a textbook, sometimes it happens to me during this book. But its not entirely at fault, since I always do this.
Overall : I truly love this book, I think it's really smart how the author incorporate every elements.
After her mom was sent to the hospital because of an accident, Danni start having weird dreams and water started to leak through her palm. She soon discover there was more behind her mother accident, as well as her past.
.
.
.
.
Thoughts and Opinion :
So I went into this stories with quite low expectation. But this is a truly remarkable story. This is story was so well planned, like every elements come to play in this stories. Every chapter in this stories is so intense, it makes you want to keep on reading. It draw you in right at the start, and that's what I love most about this book. I like the pacing of it, it's not slow which is good for once. It quite hard to talk about this book without spoiling anything. Let's just say the events that take place in this is very intriguing and remarkably written. Though, I would say some parts I read it but didn't really pay attention. Like when you are skimming through a textbook, sometimes it happens to me during this book. But its not entirely at fault, since I always do this.
Overall : I truly love this book, I think it's really smart how the author incorporate every elements.
July 31, 2018
This novel won the MsLexia Children’s Novel Competition in 2013 (prior to its publication in 2015) and since then it's been shortlisted and praised by one and all so I thought it was about time I read it.
I gave it to my daughter first and she romped through it. For me it was more of slow burner, but I stuck with it as it came highly recommended and I’m so glad I did
It’s a hard novel to review without giving away a key plot secret so all I will say is it is a real page turner with some intriguing, beautifully drawn characters and some wonderful insights into Cornish folklore and traditions. The setting is beautiful and there's a little bit of romance too which is good for the soul.
All in all if you are, or if you have 11+ year olds I urge you to get them a copy of Deep Water. I guarantee they will dive right in and not come up for air until they've finished.
I gave it to my daughter first and she romped through it. For me it was more of slow burner, but I stuck with it as it came highly recommended and I’m so glad I did
It’s a hard novel to review without giving away a key plot secret so all I will say is it is a real page turner with some intriguing, beautifully drawn characters and some wonderful insights into Cornish folklore and traditions. The setting is beautiful and there's a little bit of romance too which is good for the soul.
All in all if you are, or if you have 11+ year olds I urge you to get them a copy of Deep Water. I guarantee they will dive right in and not come up for air until they've finished.
January 28, 2019
Intriguing premise based on old myths of Sea/Seal People. I find this sort of thing fascinating - anything to do with water and the sea. So, it was onto a winner in many ways from the start. There is a little swearing (it's YA) but it fits completely with the cast and setting, so no worries for me there! Likable characters, hate-able baddies and a dog...two dogs, actually. Goodie v Baddie! And a great setting combining past and present.
It all flows and is explained, there is love interest, friendship and family. It's a smoothly paced, easy read and I want to believe these things exist. For an early teen, spot on.
It all flows and is explained, there is love interest, friendship and family. It's a smoothly paced, easy read and I want to believe these things exist. For an early teen, spot on.
August 3, 2022
This book was really fun and enjoyable. I would say it was slightly too ‘young’ for me but I don’t really necessarily believe in that! I think you should read whatever you like. Saying that I know I would’ve liked this book more when I was younger.
It was fun to read about the sea, I wish it had been a greater part of the book though. Was an interesting and different concept.
It was fun to read about the sea, I wish it had been a greater part of the book though. Was an interesting and different concept.
May 27, 2018
If you like mystery books then this is going to be a good read for you. Haha get it good read 😂. OK that was a bad joke but this books is awesome and keeps you on your toes. It kind of reminds me of h20 just add water but it's not as childish.
May 28, 2017
It was cool
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