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The Mermaid Trials #1
The Mermaid Trials
Losing is dangerous. Winning means everything.
Katriana has been waiting for this moment her entire life.
Once a century, the Royals hold the Trials. Every Mer of a certain age must participate. The contests are brutal. Survival is not guaranteed. But for the victors, the prize is unimaginable.
They are allowed to walk on land.
She is forced to work for her evil stepmother, while ignoring the taunts of her spoiled half-sister. She’s desperate to escape. So desperate, she begins the Trials without armor, or even a helmet.
Not one to give up, Katriana gives the Trials all she is worth, even catching the eye of a mysterious benefactor who is more than he seems.
How much will she sacrifice to become one of the elite? And if she does win, will she be able to halt mankind’s destruction of the sea?
The Mermaid Trials is a new series from author Cameron Drake.
Katriana has been waiting for this moment her entire life.
Once a century, the Royals hold the Trials. Every Mer of a certain age must participate. The contests are brutal. Survival is not guaranteed. But for the victors, the prize is unimaginable.
They are allowed to walk on land.
She is forced to work for her evil stepmother, while ignoring the taunts of her spoiled half-sister. She’s desperate to escape. So desperate, she begins the Trials without armor, or even a helmet.
Not one to give up, Katriana gives the Trials all she is worth, even catching the eye of a mysterious benefactor who is more than he seems.
How much will she sacrifice to become one of the elite? And if she does win, will she be able to halt mankind’s destruction of the sea?
The Mermaid Trials is a new series from author Cameron Drake.
206 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 16, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
July 6, 2018
This was a really fun and great start of a new series. Cinderella meets the little mermaid and the hunger games. Add in a lot of awesome imagination from the author that filled in the blanks perfectly and you have yourself a really enthralling and exciting book to read. MEET the mermaid trials by Cameron Drake!!
It was a really intriguing and thrilling read from beginning until the end. The world is so exciting to read about. I love that each of the merman and mermaids have animal familiars and Tri happens to have such a great one, a big white shark named BEAZIL. And he’s so awesome!! He’s like Flounder and a Labrador, wrapped up into a big white shark skin, lol! Lazy and always in need of a good belly rub - I don’t make this shit up haha-, a scaredy pants most of the time but brave when the need arises, loving towards the people he likes and loves and obviously just cute AF if you don’t take his scary looks into account haha.
The settings are great to read about although sometimes i just wanted to be able to linger in certain settings so I could learn more about it. I couldn’t get enough of it.
The characters are so interesting and exciting to read about. Not only katriana/Tri but the minor characters as well.
Thanks to the trials taking place - which will be explained in the beginning of the book on what they entail and why they’re being held and such - there’s a lot of action and adventure taking place. You’re being thrown into dangerous waters and sometimes horrific settings and I loved it a lot! The trials scenes made sure this was a fast paced read.
I do think the developing romance remained a bit shallow and could definitely need a bit more depth so I’m really looking forward to see how this develops in the next book. I do like seeing a katriana/Dane combination happening because I’m a sucker for romance haha. Towards the end of the book I’m left craving more so that’s a good sign!
The storyline itself develops in a good pace I think and as I said, thanks to the action and adventure it makes for a fast paced read. I do think the silver lining of the story was predictable but it didn’t make the story any less awesome though. There are still a lot of moments present in which some really surprising things happened that ensured I sat right on the edge of my seat the entire time.
Overall it was a great first book in a new series. Perfect for fans of mermaid retellings who love immersing themselves in a world below the surface, filled with some awesome and scary creatures.. perfect for fans who like adventure and action and a tiny bit of romance. A romance that’s bound to develop more strongly in the next book and I’m already soooo excited to read more of. It’s Perfect for readers who like coming across like-able characters, main character and minor characters alike. I just can’t wait to go on another adventure with them and I’m hoping there’s a release date to be announced very soon on the sequel!!!
Would I recommend this book?!
IT’S A YES FROM ME!!
It was a really intriguing and thrilling read from beginning until the end. The world is so exciting to read about. I love that each of the merman and mermaids have animal familiars and Tri happens to have such a great one, a big white shark named BEAZIL. And he’s so awesome!! He’s like Flounder and a Labrador, wrapped up into a big white shark skin, lol! Lazy and always in need of a good belly rub - I don’t make this shit up haha-, a scaredy pants most of the time but brave when the need arises, loving towards the people he likes and loves and obviously just cute AF if you don’t take his scary looks into account haha.
The settings are great to read about although sometimes i just wanted to be able to linger in certain settings so I could learn more about it. I couldn’t get enough of it.
The characters are so interesting and exciting to read about. Not only katriana/Tri but the minor characters as well.
Thanks to the trials taking place - which will be explained in the beginning of the book on what they entail and why they’re being held and such - there’s a lot of action and adventure taking place. You’re being thrown into dangerous waters and sometimes horrific settings and I loved it a lot! The trials scenes made sure this was a fast paced read.
I do think the developing romance remained a bit shallow and could definitely need a bit more depth so I’m really looking forward to see how this develops in the next book. I do like seeing a katriana/Dane combination happening because I’m a sucker for romance haha. Towards the end of the book I’m left craving more so that’s a good sign!
The storyline itself develops in a good pace I think and as I said, thanks to the action and adventure it makes for a fast paced read. I do think the silver lining of the story was predictable but it didn’t make the story any less awesome though. There are still a lot of moments present in which some really surprising things happened that ensured I sat right on the edge of my seat the entire time.
Overall it was a great first book in a new series. Perfect for fans of mermaid retellings who love immersing themselves in a world below the surface, filled with some awesome and scary creatures.. perfect for fans who like adventure and action and a tiny bit of romance. A romance that’s bound to develop more strongly in the next book and I’m already soooo excited to read more of. It’s Perfect for readers who like coming across like-able characters, main character and minor characters alike. I just can’t wait to go on another adventure with them and I’m hoping there’s a release date to be announced very soon on the sequel!!!
Would I recommend this book?!
IT’S A YES FROM ME!!
August 4, 2026
An interesting retelling fusing the little mermaid and cinderella together with some hunger games. I walked into this book with zero expectations. I didn't even know this book existed until a couple of days ago and yet, I'm happy that I dove into it. We get some hints of romance but honestly there's so much action. I also really liked having animal familiars and how each one was kind of unique. No idea which one I would want but our girl has a great freaking white shark. Did I figure out who Dane really was early on? Oh, lol, yes - clocked him when they first met. If I ever cross paths with the next book in this series, I would probably jump into it. Just because I do wonder what she will choose.
September 3, 2018
Very nice book.
Mermaids meets Cinderella meets ‘ the hunger games’
I’ve enjoyed this book very much and I’m looking forward to the next book 📚
Mermaids meets Cinderella meets ‘ the hunger games’
I’ve enjoyed this book very much and I’m looking forward to the next book 📚
March 1, 2018
Received in exchange for a honest review.
Cameron Drake has written a very imaginative and highly entertaining twist to the Cinderella fairy tale concept with a bit of a Hunger games style trial going on.
Here we are in the world of mermaids and merman. We have a royal family, and different families of mermaids.
Katriana’s dad was a royal messenger before he died leaving her in the hands of her stepmother and stepsister. A stepmother who had money but didn’t want her around. So Kariana was delegated to being a servant and treated like dirt. For Kariana she was okay with it though. She learned to have compassion, kindness and that no one is above the other. She also got the drive to make something of herself and win the trial.s the trials all kids at a certain age in her kingdom must participate in. The trials determine your station really. Will you be a messenger, a spark etc. For Katriana she wanted freedom and to have that she wants to be a Spark. she trains everyday alone and with her adorable familiar a great white.
When the trials roll around, she is ready and determined. From the beginning she meets a group of people who care for her and help her along the way via support or as a team. It shows her that not everyone cares about your status. We see them grow close and one in particular catches her eye.
Dane. Dane is the boy who gets Katriana’s heart thumping. Although she wants to deny it. At first to her he is arrogant but what she interprets as arrogance is really confidence. He is kind and helpful. Protective and real as well. When he meets Katriana, she doesn’t know who he is and she tells it to him like it is. He finds this refreshing. He’s also doing the trials when his mother doesn’t want him to so he is hiding himself as well. Upon meeting Katriana, he is intrigued and also begins to take on the role of protector with her for Starla. The girl who they fear the trials will kill. Only that girl is a surprise to us all. she is smart, resilient and stronger than you think.
The trials are dangerous and keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what the next event will be and who will come out of it. We have Katriana’s stepsister who is terrible to her in the events as well and boy is she a horrible person. We have betrayals and friendships that go beyond a trial to being supportive and real.
the relationship between Dane and Katriana is enticing. We see Katriana fight her feelings and flirt with Dane and he do the same. Throughout the trials Dane helps Katriana and Starla even when it could harm him. He is there for them but he also shows Katriana respect and treats her as a equal. He doesn’t see her as beneath him but as a person and a friend. He learns about her and is there for her no matter what. the ending was fun and flirty after the dangerous trials. I love how it leaves us wondering what is next and I can’t wait to find out.
The story has some great worldbuilding, lots of action, danger and intrigue with the hint of romance in the air with Dane and Katriana. Our three main characters of Dane, Katriana and Starla you fall in love with and the mystery surrounding Katriana and her abilities and her romance with Kane keeps you wanting to know more.A wonderful beginning to what looks to be a great series.
Cameron Drake has written a very imaginative and highly entertaining twist to the Cinderella fairy tale concept with a bit of a Hunger games style trial going on.
Here we are in the world of mermaids and merman. We have a royal family, and different families of mermaids.
Katriana’s dad was a royal messenger before he died leaving her in the hands of her stepmother and stepsister. A stepmother who had money but didn’t want her around. So Kariana was delegated to being a servant and treated like dirt. For Kariana she was okay with it though. She learned to have compassion, kindness and that no one is above the other. She also got the drive to make something of herself and win the trial.s the trials all kids at a certain age in her kingdom must participate in. The trials determine your station really. Will you be a messenger, a spark etc. For Katriana she wanted freedom and to have that she wants to be a Spark. she trains everyday alone and with her adorable familiar a great white.
When the trials roll around, she is ready and determined. From the beginning she meets a group of people who care for her and help her along the way via support or as a team. It shows her that not everyone cares about your status. We see them grow close and one in particular catches her eye.
Dane. Dane is the boy who gets Katriana’s heart thumping. Although she wants to deny it. At first to her he is arrogant but what she interprets as arrogance is really confidence. He is kind and helpful. Protective and real as well. When he meets Katriana, she doesn’t know who he is and she tells it to him like it is. He finds this refreshing. He’s also doing the trials when his mother doesn’t want him to so he is hiding himself as well. Upon meeting Katriana, he is intrigued and also begins to take on the role of protector with her for Starla. The girl who they fear the trials will kill. Only that girl is a surprise to us all. she is smart, resilient and stronger than you think.
The trials are dangerous and keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what the next event will be and who will come out of it. We have Katriana’s stepsister who is terrible to her in the events as well and boy is she a horrible person. We have betrayals and friendships that go beyond a trial to being supportive and real.
the relationship between Dane and Katriana is enticing. We see Katriana fight her feelings and flirt with Dane and he do the same. Throughout the trials Dane helps Katriana and Starla even when it could harm him. He is there for them but he also shows Katriana respect and treats her as a equal. He doesn’t see her as beneath him but as a person and a friend. He learns about her and is there for her no matter what. the ending was fun and flirty after the dangerous trials. I love how it leaves us wondering what is next and I can’t wait to find out.
The story has some great worldbuilding, lots of action, danger and intrigue with the hint of romance in the air with Dane and Katriana. Our three main characters of Dane, Katriana and Starla you fall in love with and the mystery surrounding Katriana and her abilities and her romance with Kane keeps you wanting to know more.A wonderful beginning to what looks to be a great series.
April 27, 2018
Oh my gosh, if you like things like "THE Little Mermaid" and "Cinderella" and "The Goblet of Fire" and "The Hunger Games" you'll love this book. I can't wait to see how the story continues.
Tri has lost her father at a young age and her stepmother has treated her as a servant ever since. She has been waiting for the Trials to begin so that she can leave her stepmother and half-sister behind. The Trials are one way to change your status, were a servant can become an elite member of the royal court.
Tri wants to become a Spark, a net that can go on land, so that she can help her kind by trying to stop what she calls two letters from continuing to pollute the ocean.
She makes some friends during the Trials. She may have made some enemies too. Not all Mers have magic and she believes that she does not. One thing all Mers have are familiars, and you'll have to read to find out what sea creature is hers, as well as her friends and who her friends really are.
Tri has lost her father at a young age and her stepmother has treated her as a servant ever since. She has been waiting for the Trials to begin so that she can leave her stepmother and half-sister behind. The Trials are one way to change your status, were a servant can become an elite member of the royal court.
Tri wants to become a Spark, a net that can go on land, so that she can help her kind by trying to stop what she calls two letters from continuing to pollute the ocean.
She makes some friends during the Trials. She may have made some enemies too. Not all Mers have magic and she believes that she does not. One thing all Mers have are familiars, and you'll have to read to find out what sea creature is hers, as well as her friends and who her friends really are.
March 10, 2018
Need part 2 please !!!!!
This story was such a rush! I cannot believe how fast I went through it I almost wish I hadn’t because I don’t know when he next book will release .
The story between Tri and Dane is crazy good . It’s a packed adventure that will take you for a ride! If you haven’t grabbed this yet you should get it , you won’t regret it!
Happy reading everyone 😊
This story was such a rush! I cannot believe how fast I went through it I almost wish I hadn’t because I don’t know when he next book will release .
The story between Tri and Dane is crazy good . It’s a packed adventure that will take you for a ride! If you haven’t grabbed this yet you should get it , you won’t regret it!
Happy reading everyone 😊
June 17, 2024
Had to re read this because it's been 4 years since I've read it and the second book came out.
Ok so I didnt know what to expect out of this story. At first, I thought maybe a 3 star read at the most. And the beginning seemed a little bit slow. And not as good as other books. But omg!!! It hit you so quick! Things went by quickly but not so quickly that it felt rushed. There was so much drama! I loved this story. The aspect, the descriptions, and the MC was amazing. She was awesome..and while she fell quickly for the guy, she still stayed true to herself and didn't tell his mother that she loved him. She told his mom that she cared for him and he was a dear friend and she could grow to love him but they'd only known each other a week! I love that! She's amazing. I wish the author would hurry up and come out with a new book
Ok so I didnt know what to expect out of this story. At first, I thought maybe a 3 star read at the most. And the beginning seemed a little bit slow. And not as good as other books. But omg!!! It hit you so quick! Things went by quickly but not so quickly that it felt rushed. There was so much drama! I loved this story. The aspect, the descriptions, and the MC was amazing. She was awesome..and while she fell quickly for the guy, she still stayed true to herself and didn't tell his mother that she loved him. She told his mom that she cared for him and he was a dear friend and she could grow to love him but they'd only known each other a week! I love that! She's amazing. I wish the author would hurry up and come out with a new book
February 23, 2018
Let me just say that I did not like this book at all... I LOVED IT!! Tri is definitely my type of mergal; she knows what she wants and doesn't let her circumstances get in the way. She's strong and loyal and simply an outstanding female lead in this beautiful aquatic creation. Cameron Drake's version of The Little Mermaid and Cinderella is beautifully written with stunning characters and world building that kept me completely under water until the end. I seriously did not want to come up for air. I wish this book could have gone on forever and the release of the next book in this series can't come soon enough.
{I requested a copy for review purposes and made no guarantee of a favorable review. The opinions expressed herein are unbiased and my own.}
{I requested a copy for review purposes and made no guarantee of a favorable review. The opinions expressed herein are unbiased and my own.}
April 14, 2018
I really liked this book by Cameron Drake about one mermaid's trials and tribulations to overcome everything in her life to achieve her ultimate dreams and desires. The characters were identifiable, with many you rooted for hoping for their success; and many you rooted against, hoping for their failure. It was also a low-key slow developing love story about friends, family, and mates, and what really matters in life, regardless of their social standing or lack thereof. This is a somewhat late voluntary review of an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Hidden Gems Books.
June 4, 2021
Really cool! I loved the unique way that the challenges were brought to life, and the plot was highly original. People keep comparing this book to The Hunger Games and Cinderella, but I think it's content made it totally stand out. Not a rip-off in any way! I'd totally read this again.
February 25, 2018
What a refreshing, fun, sweet, and safe story!! This was filled with original ideas, fun new views and one amazing world.
Tri is a young mer-woman (think The Little Mermaid), serving her mean stepmother and half-sister, after her father's disappearance (Cinderella). She works hard and has a huge heart.
Every 100 mer-years a Trial is held for all young mer-people to decide who becomes the upper elite and the Spark. The Spark gets to walk on land. Tri wants this so bad, just to get out if the live she has been living. It has always been her dream, to walk among the humans and help save the ocean and the lives within it.
Tri enters the Trials and soon finds herself in a different, difficult world. With the help of her familiar (A FANTASTIC great white shark) named Beazil, and her two new friends, Dane and Starla, the Trials commence and life forever changes. The secondary characters were just as vibrant and important to the outcome. The dangers that lurk are potent but not graphic.
I could not get enough of this story it was filled with humor, great world building, a new original take on a few classic stories, and characters that will stay with me for awhile. This is a safe story (brief kissing only), and written for ALL ages to enjoy. I am going to buy my younger family members copies as I think this is a great story for pre-teens all the way through adulthood. I hope there are more stories in this series as there are plenty of characters and action to be had!! Highly recommended for a fun enjoyable read!!
Tri is a young mer-woman (think The Little Mermaid), serving her mean stepmother and half-sister, after her father's disappearance (Cinderella). She works hard and has a huge heart.
Every 100 mer-years a Trial is held for all young mer-people to decide who becomes the upper elite and the Spark. The Spark gets to walk on land. Tri wants this so bad, just to get out if the live she has been living. It has always been her dream, to walk among the humans and help save the ocean and the lives within it.
Tri enters the Trials and soon finds herself in a different, difficult world. With the help of her familiar (A FANTASTIC great white shark) named Beazil, and her two new friends, Dane and Starla, the Trials commence and life forever changes. The secondary characters were just as vibrant and important to the outcome. The dangers that lurk are potent but not graphic.
I could not get enough of this story it was filled with humor, great world building, a new original take on a few classic stories, and characters that will stay with me for awhile. This is a safe story (brief kissing only), and written for ALL ages to enjoy. I am going to buy my younger family members copies as I think this is a great story for pre-teens all the way through adulthood. I hope there are more stories in this series as there are plenty of characters and action to be had!! Highly recommended for a fun enjoyable read!!
April 29, 2019
This book is a cross between Cinderella and the Hunger Games. It’s about the underwater world of mermaids and mermen who are forced by their laws to participate in some events (trials) to see who is worthy to work with the Royals and who may work to visit and study the “two-leggeds” on land. The trials are very dangerous even, and it’s entirely possible for a mer to die during them. After Tri’s father, a royal messenger, died when she was a child, she is left with a hateful stepmother, and a stepsister who receives all the benefits of their wealthy life while Tri is forced to live as a servant, serving her own stepmother and stepsister. She is determined to win the trials so she can leave that life behind. Along the way, she meets and friends Dane and Starla, and the three of them work together the best they can to survive the trials. Even with the story’s similarities to the above, this was still a very unique one. The mers all have familiars, whether it be starfish, stingrays, etc, and there is magic, and all that gave it an almost witchy feel to the story also and added to the originality. The story did end with a little bit of a cliffhanger (you will find out who wins the trials though), but there is supposed to be a second book on the way, so I’m looking forward to seeing where the author takes it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
February 28, 2020
The book was an easy read that felt light despite the trials Katriana, the heroine, faced. The story had elements of Cinderella and loose similarities to the Little Mermaid. The evil stepmother and horrible half-sister was Katrina's motivation to work hard and win the Trials.mShe also wanted to please her father, who she presumed dead since he never returned from his last mission.
Katrina makes a few friends during the Trials with her shark, Beazil, nappng nearby. I smiled while reading parts of this story and cringed at other parts. I think this is a cute YA read that leaves you wanting more. I thought it was predictable but enjoyable, because it's about the journey. I thought the characters could have developed more, but this is the first book in the series and that may happen in the coming stories. As soon as I started readingvthe story, I knew I wanted to root for Katriana. I liked the "mer way" of saying unfamiliar things, like limon, and teeter. I liked this clean read and would share it with my children. 3.5 stars
I received a free copy of the book from BookSprout in exchange for my honest opinion.
Katrina makes a few friends during the Trials with her shark, Beazil, nappng nearby. I smiled while reading parts of this story and cringed at other parts. I think this is a cute YA read that leaves you wanting more. I thought it was predictable but enjoyable, because it's about the journey. I thought the characters could have developed more, but this is the first book in the series and that may happen in the coming stories. As soon as I started readingvthe story, I knew I wanted to root for Katriana. I liked the "mer way" of saying unfamiliar things, like limon, and teeter. I liked this clean read and would share it with my children. 3.5 stars
I received a free copy of the book from BookSprout in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 1, 2019
This book has a little bit of many familiar stories that makes it feel like you’re already familiar and comfortable with the story line. It was an interesting book to immerse yourself into, letting the reader see the difficulty of a determined mermaid's arduous task in overcoming all obstacles in her path to achieve her ultimate dreams through a brutal contest. It was actually very inspiring.
The characters’ natures were revealed by their actions and the reader could relate to them accordingly, whether as good or bad. Katriana had deep inner strength and an attitude for survival as far back as childhood that would not admit defeat. The story was focused on relationships and the important life things that really matter among all of us. Katriana’s struggle pulled the reader in to become her personal cheerleaders. Would she reach those dreams at last? How much would she have to sacrifice? What would it ultimately teach her? Grab your copy and learn how her life made her into the determined woman she was becoming and see if you agree with her choices!
The characters’ natures were revealed by their actions and the reader could relate to them accordingly, whether as good or bad. Katriana had deep inner strength and an attitude for survival as far back as childhood that would not admit defeat. The story was focused on relationships and the important life things that really matter among all of us. Katriana’s struggle pulled the reader in to become her personal cheerleaders. Would she reach those dreams at last? How much would she have to sacrifice? What would it ultimately teach her? Grab your copy and learn how her life made her into the determined woman she was becoming and see if you agree with her choices!
June 27, 2018
Creative twist on classic tales!
I've read many wonderful YA mermaid tales and tried to read a great many more that didn't quite capture the magic as they should, but this story by far proved wonderfully entertaining. With a bit of a cinderella story thrown in with a tenacious and kind-hearted mermaid and a lethal contest, this book blended some of our favorite fairytales and yet managed to come off wholly fresh and delightfully creative. The daily mannerisms and sayings that really emphasize the culture and the lifestyle of the merfolk were executed wonderfully and the main character's pov was so entertaining. The characters were so sensible, adorable, and somehow classically unique. Definitely recommend if you love mermaid tales. My only complaint is that the next book isn't out yet! This was such a delightful read, many thanks for writing and I look forward to the sequel!
I've read many wonderful YA mermaid tales and tried to read a great many more that didn't quite capture the magic as they should, but this story by far proved wonderfully entertaining. With a bit of a cinderella story thrown in with a tenacious and kind-hearted mermaid and a lethal contest, this book blended some of our favorite fairytales and yet managed to come off wholly fresh and delightfully creative. The daily mannerisms and sayings that really emphasize the culture and the lifestyle of the merfolk were executed wonderfully and the main character's pov was so entertaining. The characters were so sensible, adorable, and somehow classically unique. Definitely recommend if you love mermaid tales. My only complaint is that the next book isn't out yet! This was such a delightful read, many thanks for writing and I look forward to the sequel!
February 25, 2018
The Mermaid Trials by Cameron Drake is a 5 star read.
Katrina is the daughter of a royal messenger and has dreams of being a Spark, a mermaid who is able to walk on land, but her father died when she was 5 leaving her with her pregnant step-mother, she’s forced into the life of a servant in her step-mother’s home. When she is old enough Katrina takes part in the Mermaid trials, where mermaids of age compete in trials to see which job they can get, Katrina already knows she has to win to gain her dream position. Along the way Katrina meets some wonderful friends including her soft heart shark familiar.
This was an amazing story that kept my full attention from the first page and left me thinking about it long after I’d reached the last page, I highly recommend not just this book but the author too.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Katrina is the daughter of a royal messenger and has dreams of being a Spark, a mermaid who is able to walk on land, but her father died when she was 5 leaving her with her pregnant step-mother, she’s forced into the life of a servant in her step-mother’s home. When she is old enough Katrina takes part in the Mermaid trials, where mermaids of age compete in trials to see which job they can get, Katrina already knows she has to win to gain her dream position. Along the way Katrina meets some wonderful friends including her soft heart shark familiar.
This was an amazing story that kept my full attention from the first page and left me thinking about it long after I’d reached the last page, I highly recommend not just this book but the author too.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
January 4, 2019
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review.
I greatly enjoyed Katriana's trials and tribulations in life and in the Mermaid Trials themselves. As an orphan, Katriana (or Tri as she is called) is a servant in her step-mother's home a la Cinderella. Tri has been looking forward to her chance to compete in the trials (think Hunger Games but not as violent) and get out from under her step-family's thumb. Tri is a nice, humble girl who, while wanting, no needing to win, isn't willing to step on the little person to get where she wants to go. Hence displaying her heart and true inner beauty which of course, wins her loyal friends.
This is a truly enjoyable take on a conglomerate of fairy tales - Cinderella and the Little Mermaid. I anxiously look forward to the next installment as I'd love to see what's up next for our band of heroes.
I greatly enjoyed Katriana's trials and tribulations in life and in the Mermaid Trials themselves. As an orphan, Katriana (or Tri as she is called) is a servant in her step-mother's home a la Cinderella. Tri has been looking forward to her chance to compete in the trials (think Hunger Games but not as violent) and get out from under her step-family's thumb. Tri is a nice, humble girl who, while wanting, no needing to win, isn't willing to step on the little person to get where she wants to go. Hence displaying her heart and true inner beauty which of course, wins her loyal friends.
This is a truly enjoyable take on a conglomerate of fairy tales - Cinderella and the Little Mermaid. I anxiously look forward to the next installment as I'd love to see what's up next for our band of heroes.
January 3, 2019
I received an ARC of this story through Hidden Gems and this is my honest and voluntary review.
I wasn't quite sure about this one based on the description, but I don't see a lot of books with mermaids so I figured it was worth a chance. Once I started reading this though, I couldn't put it down! Tri is almost like a cross between the little mermaid, Cinderella, and Katniss. She was left orphaned and in the "care" of her stepmother after her father died, of course her stepmother then forced her to be a servant the rest of her life. Fortunately, the merfolk have a Hunger Games-esque ritual that will give Tri a chance to change her life. The direction of the story was a bit predictable but still completely enjoyable and I cannot wait for the next book in the series, there were a few loose ends from this one and I have to know what comes of them!!
I wasn't quite sure about this one based on the description, but I don't see a lot of books with mermaids so I figured it was worth a chance. Once I started reading this though, I couldn't put it down! Tri is almost like a cross between the little mermaid, Cinderella, and Katniss. She was left orphaned and in the "care" of her stepmother after her father died, of course her stepmother then forced her to be a servant the rest of her life. Fortunately, the merfolk have a Hunger Games-esque ritual that will give Tri a chance to change her life. The direction of the story was a bit predictable but still completely enjoyable and I cannot wait for the next book in the series, there were a few loose ends from this one and I have to know what comes of them!!
May 16, 2019
The concept of Cindrella seamlessly woven into the world of mermaids & mermen presents a beautiful tale of magic & love.
Tri with her friends & familiar sets out to win the mer trials that will release her from stepmother's servitude.
Full of sheer grit, courage but most of all full of heart & empathy this is more than just a story of Cinderella finding a way to improve her life.
This is a story of a girl who inspite of having zero materialistic wealth is ready to give up her her dreams for her friends. This is a story of a girl who could have become a princess because a prince loved her but being true to her heart she asked for more time.
It is more a tale of inspiration than anything else.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Tri with her friends & familiar sets out to win the mer trials that will release her from stepmother's servitude.
Full of sheer grit, courage but most of all full of heart & empathy this is more than just a story of Cinderella finding a way to improve her life.
This is a story of a girl who inspite of having zero materialistic wealth is ready to give up her her dreams for her friends. This is a story of a girl who could have become a princess because a prince loved her but being true to her heart she asked for more time.
It is more a tale of inspiration than anything else.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 1, 2018
This mermaid tale starts out with an evil step-mother and sisters situation reminiscent of Cinderella leading into a Hunger Games type of trials and becomes so much more! The interesting elements brought into the story throughout really brings it to life. The author has clearly taken the time to explore what life is really like underwater, even including what happens when you cry, the world created here is truly beautiful. The characters are well developed along the way so you become invested in the outcome of the trials, which are spectacular. At the beginning I felt it would just be okay but I loved it and cannot wait until book two comes to fruition so I can continue exploring this world!
March 7, 2018
I received an arc for an honest review
Review by Country Gals Book Blog
This is a mermaid tail stick between Cinderella, Divergent/Hunger games. It was definitely different in though yet similar in other aspects of past well known stories.
Katriana is a Mer needing to win the trials in order to get out from under her evil step moms thumb. She will do whatever it takes to do it. But she meets unlikely friends along the way as they team up to win and protect each other. With twist and turns, and unexpected truths, this was definitely a whirlwind of a story that grips you from page one and keeps you glued to the end. Strong, different characters and plenty of intrigue you won’t want to miss this story.
Review by Country Gals Book Blog
This is a mermaid tail stick between Cinderella, Divergent/Hunger games. It was definitely different in though yet similar in other aspects of past well known stories.
Katriana is a Mer needing to win the trials in order to get out from under her evil step moms thumb. She will do whatever it takes to do it. But she meets unlikely friends along the way as they team up to win and protect each other. With twist and turns, and unexpected truths, this was definitely a whirlwind of a story that grips you from page one and keeps you glued to the end. Strong, different characters and plenty of intrigue you won’t want to miss this story.
March 10, 2018
If you like Mermaids......
This is a great story about Mermaids that tells the story in a very different way. This give you a different view as to how Mere age at a slower rates than normal humans. How when you lose both your partners and your step-mom and half-sister treat you like a servant. Only you find a way to over come your issues and end up having one of the Royals fall in love with you. Except you don't know who he really is until much later with a total shock. If you love Mermaids and are looking for a different view make sure to check out this story by Cameron Drake. Lots of action and great flow of the reading.
This is a great story about Mermaids that tells the story in a very different way. This give you a different view as to how Mere age at a slower rates than normal humans. How when you lose both your partners and your step-mom and half-sister treat you like a servant. Only you find a way to over come your issues and end up having one of the Royals fall in love with you. Except you don't know who he really is until much later with a total shock. If you love Mermaids and are looking for a different view make sure to check out this story by Cameron Drake. Lots of action and great flow of the reading.
September 12, 2019
This is the first book in this new series and I LOVED it! Combining elements of Cinderella, the Little Mermaid and then a whole new book (sorry, had to go there!!), it's a great story, full of drama, tension, friendship, a touch of romance, a tiny bit of magic and a whole lot of mermaid storytelling. I found the references to human words and beliefs funny (though at the beginning I was a little confused by the misspellings!) and wish I could meet Beazil and give him a belly rub! Can't wait to read the next book in the series!!
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
June 7, 2023
I do not have anything positive to say about this book.
If you’re going to borrow an idea or premise from other stories, then make the story you’re own. Not use another author’s voice.
To say I’m disappointed is an understatement. The title and synopsis is misleading. Trials take place maybe 15 percent of this book and that’s being generous. It Would have been better to name the book after the character and her “adventure”.
I’m not going to point out the many times I said out loud, “what is this author thinking” ?
Save your self the headache and skip this book. You’re not missing anything.
If you’re going to borrow an idea or premise from other stories, then make the story you’re own. Not use another author’s voice.
To say I’m disappointed is an understatement. The title and synopsis is misleading. Trials take place maybe 15 percent of this book and that’s being generous. It Would have been better to name the book after the character and her “adventure”.
I’m not going to point out the many times I said out loud, “what is this author thinking” ?
Save your self the headache and skip this book. You’re not missing anything.
July 30, 2019
I was pretty disappointed. It sounded really good, I just couldn't connect to the story. I ended up skimming through most of it. Really liked the Cinderella meets The Hunger Game with mermaids twist in it. I felt like there was more to some parts of it. It felt to me the ones that knew her father and watched her back during some of the trials did it for a reason.
And five seconds after meeting Dane I knew exactly who he was. Didn't care for the insta love, at least not on his part. Or how his mom was already thinking marriage.
I wouldn't mind reading the next one.
And five seconds after meeting Dane I knew exactly who he was. Didn't care for the insta love, at least not on his part. Or how his mom was already thinking marriage.
I wouldn't mind reading the next one.
February 12, 2020
Oh em gee! I cannot wait for book #2!!! This was very much a Cinderella retelling in my opinion. Tri was “orphaned” at a young age and forced to serve her step mother and sister....she entered the Trials and meets Dane and Starla who quickly become her best and only friends. There are quick feelings between between Tri and Dane much to the chagrin of the other female Mers. In order to not ruin this for others I will stop there!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 10, 2020
This was a fun and exciting view of merpeople. Katriana was forced to become a servant in her home when her father passed away. Her stepmother was expecting a child. Her half sister was raised like royalty. Katriana scrapped for everything she had. She had to enter the trials and met Dane and Starla along with some other mer. The trials were brutal for them as individuals, as teams and for their familiars. But Katriana was determined to make it through on top a help those that she loved.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 12, 2020
This is the little mermaid meets Hunger Games meets cinderella meets Divergent Series. I really loved this book, it was one of a kind with a bit for everybody. I won't give anything away so this is a spoiler free review. But for Katarina, the mermaid trials is everything, a chance to escape and the opportunity of a lifetime. The author truly wrote an amazing story that takes you on a ride of a lifetime
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 20, 2018
I Absolutely adore Cameron Drake's books! They aren't something I would normally read but Cameron is an amazing author who pulls you in anyway. With that being said, The Mermaid Trials is the first mermaid book I have read and I wasn't disappointed. Honestly, I struggled in the very beginning but quickly turned into a book I couldn't put down! I LOVED Katrina, Starla and Dane! I hope to see them again in the future!!
February 28, 2018
Entertaining
The Mermaid Trails is the first story I have read from Cameron Drake, and it will certainly not be the last. This story reminded me of some of my favorite books. The Little Mermaid as Cinderella just trying to survive the Hunger Games in the Wizarding World. It was unique, although a bit predictable. I can hardly wait for book number 2. Now all I need is for this to be in hard back so I can put it on my bookshelves!
The Mermaid Trails is the first story I have read from Cameron Drake, and it will certainly not be the last. This story reminded me of some of my favorite books. The Little Mermaid as Cinderella just trying to survive the Hunger Games in the Wizarding World. It was unique, although a bit predictable. I can hardly wait for book number 2. Now all I need is for this to be in hard back so I can put it on my bookshelves!
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