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Broken Tides #2
Crosscurrent
A black tide is swelling.
In the wake of a horrific massacre, the naiads have chosen to leave Thessalonike, and the merman Jade loves is leaving with them. But the naiads’ departure can’t quell the city’s political tensions or satisfy Jade’s enemies.
After disaster strikes, Jade must face sea dragons and the fathomless deep as she journeys to Marbella. There she learns that Thessalonike’s infighting is the least of her world’s concerns. A new empire is rising in the ocean, and it will stop at nothing in its quest for dominion.
Can Jade survive the churning current of fear and violence, or will it drag her to the depths?
Dive into an underwater adventure in Broken Tides, a series of mermaid tales perfect for fans of Carrie Anne Noble, Leigh Bardugo, Jennifer Donnelly, and Kiera Cass.
PRAISE FOR BREAKWATER BY CATHERINE JONES PAYNE
"A compelling story about helping others at great personal cost. With artful world-building, skillful dialogue, and a powerful message, Breakwater is a book you can immerse yourself in with an ending you won't believe." -New York Times bestselling author Tosca Lee
"Breakwater has it all: a lifelike merworld, political intrigue, emotional wreckage, and--of course--murder. My only disappointment is having to wait for the sequel!" -Carol Award-winning author Nadine Brandes
"Action. Romance. Political intrigue. And it all happens underwater. In Breakwater, Catherine Jones Payne combines the courage of youth with the polish of a seasoned professional in this stunning debut." -award-winning author Ben Wolf
"Woven through with intrigue and a touch of romance." -Carrie Anne Noble, award-winning author of The Mermaid's Sister
In the wake of a horrific massacre, the naiads have chosen to leave Thessalonike, and the merman Jade loves is leaving with them. But the naiads’ departure can’t quell the city’s political tensions or satisfy Jade’s enemies.
After disaster strikes, Jade must face sea dragons and the fathomless deep as she journeys to Marbella. There she learns that Thessalonike’s infighting is the least of her world’s concerns. A new empire is rising in the ocean, and it will stop at nothing in its quest for dominion.
Can Jade survive the churning current of fear and violence, or will it drag her to the depths?
Dive into an underwater adventure in Broken Tides, a series of mermaid tales perfect for fans of Carrie Anne Noble, Leigh Bardugo, Jennifer Donnelly, and Kiera Cass.
PRAISE FOR BREAKWATER BY CATHERINE JONES PAYNE
"A compelling story about helping others at great personal cost. With artful world-building, skillful dialogue, and a powerful message, Breakwater is a book you can immerse yourself in with an ending you won't believe." -New York Times bestselling author Tosca Lee
"Breakwater has it all: a lifelike merworld, political intrigue, emotional wreckage, and--of course--murder. My only disappointment is having to wait for the sequel!" -Carol Award-winning author Nadine Brandes
"Action. Romance. Political intrigue. And it all happens underwater. In Breakwater, Catherine Jones Payne combines the courage of youth with the polish of a seasoned professional in this stunning debut." -award-winning author Ben Wolf
"Woven through with intrigue and a touch of romance." -Carrie Anne Noble, award-winning author of The Mermaid's Sister
262 pages, Paperback
Published March 3, 2018
73 people are currently reading
283 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
February 8, 2023
2023 Read-Through: This book continues an entertaining series. Lots of crazy things happening right and left. I love mermaids, but the second time through these books I'm noticing a lot of things that, for me personally, aren't my favorite. I still want to finish the series and see what happens with Jade and her family and friends, but I don't know if the Broken Tides series is one I'll collect for my bookshelf.
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WHAT?? Goodness, this author knows how to end on cliffhangers! O.o More mermaid adventures and danger and politics and life lessons. Looking forward to Book Three! More thoughts to come ...
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WHAT?? Goodness, this author knows how to end on cliffhangers! O.o More mermaid adventures and danger and politics and life lessons. Looking forward to Book Three! More thoughts to come ...
August 27, 2023
I adored the first book in this series. And I loved this sequel. Payne's worldbuilding is exquisite, and she does a great job in leveling up the moral dilemmas and stakes from the first book. Eager to see how this series wraps up!
January 22, 2019
Great sequel, but very intense and sad with all the mayhem and political uprisings going on. Jade goes on a journey with the delegation traveling to the other city and she is suspicious of everyone except the guard Maximus.
I don't like Alexander and honestly don't trust him, he also learns that Jade is in the city and I kept wondering, how did he find out? Also there is no Cassian in this book and I want to know more about him.
Several characters die in this sequel, including a character I loved, and that ending was so intense!! So well written but wishing it hadn't been so sad. Gorgeous cover and loved the new creature Jade adopts!
I don't like Alexander and honestly don't trust him, he also learns that Jade is in the city and I kept wondering, how did he find out? Also there is no Cassian in this book and I want to know more about him.
Several characters die in this sequel, including a character I loved, and that ending was so intense!! So well written but wishing it hadn't been so sad. Gorgeous cover and loved the new creature Jade adopts!
June 17, 2021
Crosscurrent was an excellent, engaging sequel. The descriptions are still just as breathtaking and beautiful, and the story is laced with mystery and intrigue. Explorations of power and government add to the book’s thematic impact, and Jade remains a marvelous protagonist. I don’t adore the romance, but it’s stayed fairly light and doesn’t annoy me too much. Overall, I’m greatly enjoying this series, and I’m looking forward to reading the conclusion!
Content: mild violence, a few kisses (not super descriptive), a nondescript reference to an affair
Content: mild violence, a few kisses (not super descriptive), a nondescript reference to an affair
January 11, 2022
Still good, though something seemed 'off' to me about it. Maybe I can't quite put my finger on it, but it's there at the back of my mind.
January 2, 2020
You can't leave it this way
You ever read a book that pulls you through it so fast you can't believe you've hit the end already? This is one of those books. You have to read the next book you can't just be left hanging on a cliff the way the end leaves you.
You ever read a book that pulls you through it so fast you can't believe you've hit the end already? This is one of those books. You have to read the next book you can't just be left hanging on a cliff the way the end leaves you.
April 23, 2018
Oh.my.goodness! Crosscurrent is the second book in the Broken Tides series and I'm just blown away by how good this book is! I first discovered this author on Netgalley and I really liked her first book, Breakwater. The series was off to a good start and though I had a few minor issues, the book still made it to my top 10 for 2017.
To say I was excited about Crosscurrent would have been an understatement. And when you have that kind of excitement for a book, it can be so easy to be let down. I promise you, I was not let down. Crosscurrent is better than the first book! I've fallen in love with the characters, the animals, the world—everything. The small issues that I had in the first book were non-existent in this book. All of the supporting cast was so well-developed. I love them all.
The world building in this book is absolutely exquisite. The author brings mythical creatures to life in a way that makes them feel absolutely tangible. She's added little details such as the flare of gills or how a mermaid would respond to temperature changes. She takes us into their homes and shows us how they eat, how they dress and how they write.
This book demanded my attention from the first page until the very last. And about that...I couldn't have known how my heart would sink like a stone on that very last page. My heart is shattered. I need this third book NOW! I have all the feels for these characters and I just don't know how I'll survive without knowing what happens to....well, you'll just have to read for yourself to find out!
This review originally posted on A Simply Enchanted Life
To say I was excited about Crosscurrent would have been an understatement. And when you have that kind of excitement for a book, it can be so easy to be let down. I promise you, I was not let down. Crosscurrent is better than the first book! I've fallen in love with the characters, the animals, the world—everything. The small issues that I had in the first book were non-existent in this book. All of the supporting cast was so well-developed. I love them all.
The world building in this book is absolutely exquisite. The author brings mythical creatures to life in a way that makes them feel absolutely tangible. She's added little details such as the flare of gills or how a mermaid would respond to temperature changes. She takes us into their homes and shows us how they eat, how they dress and how they write.
This book demanded my attention from the first page until the very last. And about that...I couldn't have known how my heart would sink like a stone on that very last page. My heart is shattered. I need this third book NOW! I have all the feels for these characters and I just don't know how I'll survive without knowing what happens to....well, you'll just have to read for yourself to find out!
This review originally posted on A Simply Enchanted Life
December 6, 2019
So much craziness in this book!!! Man I absolutely love Jade. Her resolve is second to none. Her morals are concrete. She's kind, thoughtful, and thinks of others. Yes she has flaws. She has martyr syndrome but she tries to hard to make things right. Alexander is an amazing companion for Jade. Just wish her mother would get her head out of her ass. Tor is redeeming himself kinda. I want to know what the author is going to do with him. There is so much. Holy crap! The king ended up being pyscho!! I hope to heavens the city gets together and stands up for each other. The division is ridiculous!! And worst cliffhanger ever 😭😭 why why why!?!?!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2018
Do you believe in mermaids? You will after reading this fish tale. The sequel to Breakwater is every bit as nail-biting with political intrigue and teeming with underwater creatures and their genuine qualities as its predecessor. You will enjoy this book from the gorgeous cover to the very end. Payne is so deft with her pen that I want to go looking for Jade and her posse the next time I go to the beach. Be sure to check out her other mermaid books, as well.
I also found it refreshing that the protagonist, Jade, was African American. You rarely find people of color in fantasy as main characters.
Keep writing, Ms. Payne. You are a remarkable storyteller!
I also found it refreshing that the protagonist, Jade, was African American. You rarely find people of color in fantasy as main characters.
Keep writing, Ms. Payne. You are a remarkable storyteller!
June 16, 2019
This was a great followup! Everything I wished would happen did to some capacity. I really enjoy the diplomacy of this series and how most of it is done through talking and debate. It isn't about a special snowflake warrior but a girl who I slowly realizing that there is more to life outside of her bubble. I also loved how Jade realized she suffers from being a martyr when the time comes.
Really enjoyed the audio. It was a little stiff at times but a very easy listen!
Really enjoyed the audio. It was a little stiff at times but a very easy listen!
August 1, 2018
Getting better and better
This series got better with the second book. The focus shifts more to the action than the main character's feelings and inner turmoil, so it was a much more interesting read to me. Threats loom around every corner throughout the book, and it ends on another thrilling cliffhanger. Definitely will keep going.
This series got better with the second book. The focus shifts more to the action than the main character's feelings and inner turmoil, so it was a much more interesting read to me. Threats loom around every corner throughout the book, and it ends on another thrilling cliffhanger. Definitely will keep going.
August 7, 2018
Loved the sequel. Got to the end and was both disappointed and excited that the story wasn't over. More intrigue and excitement.
September 28, 2018
Mermaids are real
I enjoyed this book. It was a lot of action about an underwater world. Can't wait to read more from this author.
I enjoyed this book. It was a lot of action about an underwater world. Can't wait to read more from this author.
February 12, 2019
A great book
You will fall in love with this book. I love the Author. The characters are so great you we believe your with them.
You will fall in love with this book. I love the Author. The characters are so great you we believe your with them.
July 13, 2019
HOLY WOW!!
Catherine's books about jade are amazing! I find myself having a hard time putting my kindle down! Each book has been a page turned since the beginning!
Catherine's books about jade are amazing! I find myself having a hard time putting my kindle down! Each book has been a page turned since the beginning!
July 2, 2022
Holy cliffhanger!!!
January 19, 2020
Overall : 5
Crosscurrent begins right where Breakwater ends, following the story of Jade Cleopola, a coming-of-age member of the nobility in the mer kingdom of Thessalonike. I'm happy to say this book in no way let me down. Here our heroine does quite a bit of growing up and reevaluating herself and the world she has always known, more so than in the first installment.
Cover: 5
This is my favorite cover in the series so far. It has the effect of making you see the ambience as it was probably intended by the author. The attention to detail is just awesome. We have Kiki in the background, and the hint that a new friend is adopted through the course of the story is posing on Jade's right shoulder; The promise of yet more trouble is portrayed ever so subtly, but beautifully.
Writing and Delivery:5
From the beginning, the narrative flows with ease; it's like picking up a book you had put down for a while, rather than a new one. We're plunged from one conflict right into the next, from then on. The only reason I didn't read this book in one sitting is I'm no longer able to do that, unless it's a very short book. Not once did I put it down because it was boring. The Jade I met at the beginning of Breakwater or even at the beginning of Crosscurrent itself was not the Jade I saw at the end, and yet she was; that's character developing at its finest, in my book.
And... don't even get me started on the cliffhanger. I'll just say, if you have a cardiac condition, tread lightly with this one. Be sure to take your meds without fail through the end, 'cause we might just lose you at the end otherwise!
Editorial:5
As far as I could see, this book is flawless, down to the editorial work. Kudos, y'all!
My review of Maelstrom coming soon!
Crosscurrent begins right where Breakwater ends, following the story of Jade Cleopola, a coming-of-age member of the nobility in the mer kingdom of Thessalonike. I'm happy to say this book in no way let me down. Here our heroine does quite a bit of growing up and reevaluating herself and the world she has always known, more so than in the first installment.
Cover: 5
This is my favorite cover in the series so far. It has the effect of making you see the ambience as it was probably intended by the author. The attention to detail is just awesome. We have Kiki in the background, and the hint that a new friend is adopted through the course of the story is posing on Jade's right shoulder; The promise of yet more trouble is portrayed ever so subtly, but beautifully.
Writing and Delivery:5
From the beginning, the narrative flows with ease; it's like picking up a book you had put down for a while, rather than a new one. We're plunged from one conflict right into the next, from then on. The only reason I didn't read this book in one sitting is I'm no longer able to do that, unless it's a very short book. Not once did I put it down because it was boring. The Jade I met at the beginning of Breakwater or even at the beginning of Crosscurrent itself was not the Jade I saw at the end, and yet she was; that's character developing at its finest, in my book.
And... don't even get me started on the cliffhanger. I'll just say, if you have a cardiac condition, tread lightly with this one. Be sure to take your meds without fail through the end, 'cause we might just lose you at the end otherwise!
Editorial:5
As far as I could see, this book is flawless, down to the editorial work. Kudos, y'all!
My review of Maelstrom coming soon!
July 30, 2021
Wow. That cliffhanger...
I've been curious about these series for a while, then took a chance by burrowing Breakwaterfrom a library. At first, I had mixed feelings. For one, the worldbuilding was GORGEOUS! I LOVED seeing the beautiful underwater world through Jade's eyes from coral structures to facinating creatures. The story-plot was REALLY good, centering around two races living rather tensely together in Thesselonike. On the other hand, I had trouble liking Jade as the story progressed from her shock of discovering her "jerk" of a fiance who had murdered a naiad into discovering dark secrets linking to the tensions between the mer and the naiads.
But then, I took a peek at this book... and I'm glad I did. The more I learned about Jade, the more I truly liked her! In spite her initial naiveté, she's a mer driven by compassion and a strong desire to do the right thing. Even those traits tend to overboard, often trying to carry the weight of the ocean on her shoulders and solve everyone's problems. (That I can definitely relate to!)
This book was truly a shift forward as Jade's enemies seem to be in every canal, targeting her loved ones and freinds. We see so much more of the oceanic world as she travels with the delegation to another city far deeper than she's ever been! Web-foot dragons, corals... and HIPPOCAMPI! (I admit I internally squealed when it emerged.) And yet, as old alliances become torn apart by racism and politics, an ancient enemy long-thought gone rises to conquer the seas.
I really enjoyed this incredible series by a very talented author! Definitely waiting to grab a copy of Maelstrom!
I've been curious about these series for a while, then took a chance by burrowing Breakwaterfrom a library. At first, I had mixed feelings. For one, the worldbuilding was GORGEOUS! I LOVED seeing the beautiful underwater world through Jade's eyes from coral structures to facinating creatures. The story-plot was REALLY good, centering around two races living rather tensely together in Thesselonike. On the other hand, I had trouble liking Jade as the story progressed from her shock of discovering her "jerk" of a fiance who had murdered a naiad into discovering dark secrets linking to the tensions between the mer and the naiads.
But then, I took a peek at this book... and I'm glad I did. The more I learned about Jade, the more I truly liked her! In spite her initial naiveté, she's a mer driven by compassion and a strong desire to do the right thing. Even those traits tend to overboard, often trying to carry the weight of the ocean on her shoulders and solve everyone's problems. (That I can definitely relate to!)
This book was truly a shift forward as Jade's enemies seem to be in every canal, targeting her loved ones and freinds. We see so much more of the oceanic world as she travels with the delegation to another city far deeper than she's ever been! Web-foot dragons, corals... and HIPPOCAMPI! (I admit I internally squealed when it emerged.) And yet, as old alliances become torn apart by racism and politics, an ancient enemy long-thought gone rises to conquer the seas.
I really enjoyed this incredible series by a very talented author! Definitely waiting to grab a copy of Maelstrom!
March 15, 2020
The politics in this one felt a bit muddier. I knew what was going on in the first volume and while I didn't agree with everyone, I knew why they were doing what they were doing, in this one I felt less certain. I also still wasn't on board with the romance yet. They just didn't feel like a 'new' couple to me, especially not a new young couple.
Despite that, I still had fun with the intrigue and adventure.
I look forward to the next book, though I'm waiting for the audiobook, because I'm a mum with two jobs, so my time for paper and ebooks is minimal ;p
Despite that, I still had fun with the intrigue and adventure.
I look forward to the next book, though I'm waiting for the audiobook, because I'm a mum with two jobs, so my time for paper and ebooks is minimal ;p
December 21, 2018
This is an interesting series of stories, very intense. It continues with the theme of racism in a society. One society is a monarchy and very intolerant of other races besides the mer. The other city is a democracy, also with problems, but at least tolerant and welcoming of other races. The main character in the story is Jade, a noble mer who is seeing how her system isn't working. Her king is going mad and making terrible mistakes in his ruling. The anti-monarchists are growing stronger and more deadly.
The story begins after the Neptunians over run Marbella (I think that is the right name). The team that came to the city flee as the Neptunians are invading. Their journey back is frought, once again, with danger and the attempts on Jade's life continue. Jade picks up a new baby animal friend as well, a touch of awww in the midst of the danger.
I am really enjoying this series, and so far it has been a clean read.
The story begins after the Neptunians over run Marbella (I think that is the right name). The team that came to the city flee as the Neptunians are invading. Their journey back is frought, once again, with danger and the attempts on Jade's life continue. Jade picks up a new baby animal friend as well, a touch of awww in the midst of the danger.
I am really enjoying this series, and so far it has been a clean read.
January 21, 2025
I got quite a surprise with this series!
Here I am, at 61 years of age, thinking that I was sitting down with a YA mermaid series! Boy, did I ever get a surprise! Yes, it’s a great series depliciting the life of a mermaid civilization that the author has made completely believable. But I also joined a political movement that is underway and the beginning of a war between different cultures. I never thought this series would be so exciting and I have not been able to put it down! I’m now moving on to the next chapter of the series because I can’t wait to see what h next!
Here I am, at 61 years of age, thinking that I was sitting down with a YA mermaid series! Boy, did I ever get a surprise! Yes, it’s a great series depliciting the life of a mermaid civilization that the author has made completely believable. But I also joined a political movement that is underway and the beginning of a war between different cultures. I never thought this series would be so exciting and I have not been able to put it down! I’m now moving on to the next chapter of the series because I can’t wait to see what h next!
August 18, 2023
Loved listening to this book, the narrator, Emily Lawrence, suited the POV perfectly.
Story was an underwater narrative of power struggles, right and wrong, death and marriage, told with mermaid antidotes.
I found the ending unfinished, ending right at the second transition point of a full length novel. Leaving readers to either buy the next book, which I hate being felt compelled to do, or just write a bad review which would be sad as it’s a good story.
A conundrum indeed.
Story was an underwater narrative of power struggles, right and wrong, death and marriage, told with mermaid antidotes.
I found the ending unfinished, ending right at the second transition point of a full length novel. Leaving readers to either buy the next book, which I hate being felt compelled to do, or just write a bad review which would be sad as it’s a good story.
A conundrum indeed.
May 13, 2024
4.5
Things are certainly getting interesting. And what an ending! I’m glad I have the next book at the ready.
I really feel for Jade. Her life is shifting and changing faster than she can keep up and it’s challenging everything she has always believed to be right and true.
There are some good developments but a lot of negative things too, because we are building up to the climax!
Things are certainly getting interesting. And what an ending! I’m glad I have the next book at the ready.
I really feel for Jade. Her life is shifting and changing faster than she can keep up and it’s challenging everything she has always believed to be right and true.
There are some good developments but a lot of negative things too, because we are building up to the climax!
October 3, 2018
Confusing plot & a Cliffhanger
This is an extremely talented writer. Unfortunately she is using a cookbook style for Kindle readers to maximize her pockets.
The result ruins some great story telling and every book is a cliffhanger. Do not waste your time.
This is an extremely talented writer. Unfortunately she is using a cookbook style for Kindle readers to maximize her pockets.
The result ruins some great story telling and every book is a cliffhanger. Do not waste your time.
April 9, 2022
good read!
I was much more intrigued with this book, although I will say I don’t love the chemistry with Alexander. I really liked it better with Maximus or even a chance with Tor. Or maybe a marriage alliance with a neptunian? Going to read number 3 now.
I was much more intrigued with this book, although I will say I don’t love the chemistry with Alexander. I really liked it better with Maximus or even a chance with Tor. Or maybe a marriage alliance with a neptunian? Going to read number 3 now.
November 17, 2022
This sequel surpassed my expectations. Quick read because you get wrapped up into the characters and plot! And boy does the author throw in some major curveballs and cliffhangers. Can’t wait to read the third book!
March 8, 2024
Adventuring beyond Thessalonike to Marbella raises the stakes and reveals trouble on a larger scale threatening Jade's way of life. Loved the differing ruling system and the new characters drawn into the story - plus the baby webbed-foot dragon :)
February 27, 2019
Review to come soon.
November 25, 2020
Great book! Wonderful themes and deep characters, no pun intended! Fun and worth reading.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews