What do you think?
Rate this book
Shallows #1
Shallows
The sea isn't safe. Only the bravest and strongest become sailors. Luminescent mermaids roam the depths and the shallows, mouthing words no one can hear, never surfacing. Raised all his life in an island fishing village, bookish Emerson Kadwell has always been warned away from the shore. But an infant memory of a song and the lapping of waves continually draw him.When Emerson finds a mermaid stranded in an isolated part of the shoreline, the truth about his past and hers will change his world forever. A luminescent mermaid. A bookish inventor. A terrible truth. Shallows is a clean YA fantasy novel with elements of paranormal and romance. It is the first in a series.
246 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2018
11 people are currently reading
143 people want to read
About the author
Denver Evans
5 books22 followersDenver is a fun-sized person who dislikes talking about herself in third person. (Feels pretentious, ya know?) She lives with her handsome hubby and an army of small gnomes that look suspiciously like the two of them combined. She spends her days desperate to write a good story without too many dumb typos.
She thrives on hearing from her fans. (Like, really!)
Denver Evans is the fantastical alter-ego of mystery/thriller writer, Perry Elisabeth Kirkpatrick.
She thrives on hearing from her fans. (Like, really!)
Denver Evans is the fantastical alter-ego of mystery/thriller writer, Perry Elisabeth Kirkpatrick.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
August 30, 2019
FTC DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
This was a little out of the box for me, but I liked it. A lot. :D
The author did a great job presenting a world so authentic-feeling it almost seemed like historical fiction besides the huge splash of a speculative element.
Emerson was a sweet, relatable character. He’s an absentminded, big-hearted inventor who wears a newsie cap and looks like a young Andrew Garfield. What’s not to love? Also, he has social anxiety and panic attacks which never made him seem weak but instead made me root for him even more.
I appreciated the portrayal of good parent/child relationship and the theme of not jumping to conclusions about people. Emrie and Saria are the cutest e.v.e.r. And I may or may not have cried a little at the end.
This book may not be classified as Christian Fiction, but the strong pro-life theme really spoke to me. Like Emerson, I have trouble speaking out, but this book encouraged me to be a voice for the voiceless--no matter how uncomfortable it is for me.
Just a note, this book does include mermaids and a sweet, appropriate attraction between older teens. Also, the evil dude is the leader of a pagan religion that practices human sacrifice and magic, though we never see him doing any spells, fortunately.
Best quote: "His planned words forgotten, Emerson blurted, "I've been a horrible person. I didn't really see the real you. I didn't really hear you. I was inexcusably rude. I'm... sorry." He ran a hand through his hair frustratedly. "It's not enough, I know."
Saria was quiet for a moment.
"I am sorry I would tease you when we were little," she said softly.
Altogether, I’m so glad I gave this book a try. A great debut novel from this author! I can’t wait for the sequel. ;)
Also, Andrew Garfield.
This was a little out of the box for me, but I liked it. A lot. :D
The author did a great job presenting a world so authentic-feeling it almost seemed like historical fiction besides the huge splash of a speculative element.
Emerson was a sweet, relatable character. He’s an absentminded, big-hearted inventor who wears a newsie cap and looks like a young Andrew Garfield. What’s not to love? Also, he has social anxiety and panic attacks which never made him seem weak but instead made me root for him even more.
I appreciated the portrayal of good parent/child relationship and the theme of not jumping to conclusions about people. Emrie and Saria are the cutest e.v.e.r. And I may or may not have cried a little at the end.
This book may not be classified as Christian Fiction, but the strong pro-life theme really spoke to me. Like Emerson, I have trouble speaking out, but this book encouraged me to be a voice for the voiceless--no matter how uncomfortable it is for me.
Just a note, this book does include mermaids and a sweet, appropriate attraction between older teens. Also, the evil dude is the leader of a pagan religion that practices human sacrifice and magic, though we never see him doing any spells, fortunately.
Best quote: "His planned words forgotten, Emerson blurted, "I've been a horrible person. I didn't really see the real you. I didn't really hear you. I was inexcusably rude. I'm... sorry." He ran a hand through his hair frustratedly. "It's not enough, I know."
Saria was quiet for a moment.
"I am sorry I would tease you when we were little," she said softly.
Altogether, I’m so glad I gave this book a try. A great debut novel from this author! I can’t wait for the sequel. ;)
Also, Andrew Garfield.
Read
March 12, 2024Shallows proved to be the perfect beachy summer read I was hoping for, complete with an island atmosphere, a quirky and adorable main character, and plenty of time in the water!
December 30, 2019
This was not what I was expecting, but it was interesting.
I liked that the MC was unique. Him being an inventor and having anxiety was interesting.
The cute friendship between him and Saria was fun, it brought back memories of some of my favorite middle-grade books. Some of the switches in how he viewed her was jarring and awkward, but oh well, honestly that's kind of how it is in real life anyway. XD
And the whole mermaid-ghost thing was also interesting, though not what I was expecting. I appreciated the creativity of the problems/goals it posed.
Overall, this was pretty clean, except that ghosts were a big part of it, which I know some of my Christian friends will find questionable. I'm not sure what I think of it, except it never made me feel creeped out or uncomfortable. Other questionable content might be a girl being embarrassed because water made her clothes tight and a girl kissed a boy's cheek. Also, a boy gets beat up and another boy has to stab someone in self-defense.
I liked that the MC was unique. Him being an inventor and having anxiety was interesting.
The cute friendship between him and Saria was fun, it brought back memories of some of my favorite middle-grade books. Some of the switches in how he viewed her was jarring and awkward, but oh well, honestly that's kind of how it is in real life anyway. XD
And the whole mermaid-ghost thing was also interesting, though not what I was expecting. I appreciated the creativity of the problems/goals it posed.
Overall, this was pretty clean, except that ghosts were a big part of it, which I know some of my Christian friends will find questionable. I'm not sure what I think of it, except it never made me feel creeped out or uncomfortable. Other questionable content might be a girl being embarrassed because water made her clothes tight and a girl kissed a boy's cheek. Also, a boy gets beat up and another boy has to stab someone in self-defense.
July 8, 2023
This imagining of mermaids is such a super-cool idea. I won't give away the "secret" of who they are etc, but I will say that having a reason for mermaids to BE mermaids is genius! I love it so much.
I also loved the characterization, the world Evans has created, and the subtle faith woven in. Because this is a fantastical world, God isn't as overt as He might be in our world, and I think it works well. That was a surprise. I also love the growth of the characters. They pricked my own conscience without me feeling as if I were preached to.
In the end, I'm eager to go to the ocean with my own version of Emerson's invention and see if I can find a mermaid of my own.
I'm still ruminating, so it will surprise no one to discover that I may revise my stars and bump them one. Right now I'm at the "Really enjoyed it but something's holding me back" stage. Then again, I'm trying to find a way to justify reading the next one right away, despite a mile-high TBR. So what does that even mean? It means, I suppose, that it may deserve five stars.
I also loved the characterization, the world Evans has created, and the subtle faith woven in. Because this is a fantastical world, God isn't as overt as He might be in our world, and I think it works well. That was a surprise. I also love the growth of the characters. They pricked my own conscience without me feeling as if I were preached to.
In the end, I'm eager to go to the ocean with my own version of Emerson's invention and see if I can find a mermaid of my own.
I'm still ruminating, so it will surprise no one to discover that I may revise my stars and bump them one. Right now I'm at the "Really enjoyed it but something's holding me back" stage. Then again, I'm trying to find a way to justify reading the next one right away, despite a mile-high TBR. So what does that even mean? It means, I suppose, that it may deserve five stars.
did-not-finish
May 25, 2018This just isn't my type of book. I've never read a Mermaid or ghost story before. I got about 25% through and realized it just isn't my thing.
May 12, 2018
A refreshing twist on the mermaid myth, this story is not your typical romance and features rather atypical mermaids. Emerson is a brilliant inventor whose shortsightedness when it comes to people (or one person, anyway!) had me chuckling and shaking my head on numerous occasions. Lilyse is my favorite, and Saria is a sweetheart. I recommend this to readers who enjoy mermaid tales with a dash of romance and plenty of heart.
August 9, 2019
First off, I want to say that this book was really well written, and the characters and storyline were absolutely phenomenally done. I felt that for the most part I really related to Emerson, appreciated Saria, liked Emerson's Mom, and had an odd connection with Cyrus Hammer (maybe because both he and I try to help people but end up doing it in a dumb/obnoxious way...*shrugs*). The author is most certainly a very skilled writer, and her style and character development deserves five stars.
That being said I didn't really enjoy the book as much as I thought I would. I guess fantasy/paranormal isn't really my genre. I wasn't particularly comfortable with a story dealing with mermaids, ghosts, and dark magic (used only by the villain, but anyway). Although there was clearly a moral of protecting innocent lives in the story, as well as not treating people poorly because we assume things about them, there was very little directly Christian about the book, and although there was an allegorized version of God referred to (known as Omega), this God has absolutely no bearing on the character's lives. Not saying that's wrong, but I personally prefer a story where the Christianity is more clearly seen and has more impact on the characters. I suppose it is better to have that than nothing at all...
Aside from that, if you like fantasy than this very well could be the book for you!
That being said I didn't really enjoy the book as much as I thought I would. I guess fantasy/paranormal isn't really my genre. I wasn't particularly comfortable with a story dealing with mermaids, ghosts, and dark magic (used only by the villain, but anyway). Although there was clearly a moral of protecting innocent lives in the story, as well as not treating people poorly because we assume things about them, there was very little directly Christian about the book, and although there was an allegorized version of God referred to (known as Omega), this God has absolutely no bearing on the character's lives. Not saying that's wrong, but I personally prefer a story where the Christianity is more clearly seen and has more impact on the characters. I suppose it is better to have that than nothing at all...
Aside from that, if you like fantasy than this very well could be the book for you!
December 28, 2019
*Indiecember 10-29 reviews*
I loved this story! Great read for all ages with a captivating mystery, a dash of sweet romance and a twist on mermaids that I didn't expect.
I loved this story! Great read for all ages with a captivating mystery, a dash of sweet romance and a twist on mermaids that I didn't expect.
January 31, 2020
Really enjoyed this creative story by a skilled author! I especially delighted in the characters (notably Emerson, a really likable protagonist) and the ambiance of the seaside/island setting. It felt like a seventeenth/eighteenth-century Pirates of the Caribbean-type locale.
January 2, 2021
I adored this book. I don't think I have any other words. I want to read the rest of the series, and I have them on Kindle. I just will have to get to them.
And wish "I were a rich man, la..."
And wish "I were a rich man, la..."
January 5, 2022
Shallows was a pleasant read with an interesting take on mermaids. I wished there had been a little more depth to the characters and the worldbuilding. Even though the story moved at a leisurely pace, I never felt like I got much background on anyone or anything.
Emerson was a likeable main character, but his obvious misjudgment of Saria drove me crazy at times. It was hard to believe he could be so dense!
Still, it was nice to read something with a simpler feel to it for a change. I'll probably continue the series at some point!
Emerson was a likeable main character, but his obvious misjudgment of Saria drove me crazy at times. It was hard to believe he could be so dense!
Still, it was nice to read something with a simpler feel to it for a change. I'll probably continue the series at some point!
June 10, 2018
A wonderful tale of learning what is really important and finding love. I love that the town also learned that different is not bad.
April 10, 2020
Interesting take on mermaids!
Shallows is a story about shy, inventive Emerson, who befriends one of the feared mermaids, only to find that their story is much different and horrible than they ever imagined. He decides to help them with the help of Saria, braving mockery and several attempts on his life.
I thought the author’s take on mermaids was so unique! And I liked how it was all in the main guy, Emerson’s, POV, which is so rare. Although I would have liked some scenes from Sairia, but that’s just my personal preference.
I loved all of the characters and really enjoyed watching Emerson grow more confident. The romance is sweet and very light, 100% clean.
Now I want to read the next book, which includes pirates!! XD
Shallows is a story about shy, inventive Emerson, who befriends one of the feared mermaids, only to find that their story is much different and horrible than they ever imagined. He decides to help them with the help of Saria, braving mockery and several attempts on his life.
I thought the author’s take on mermaids was so unique! And I liked how it was all in the main guy, Emerson’s, POV, which is so rare. Although I would have liked some scenes from Sairia, but that’s just my personal preference.
I loved all of the characters and really enjoyed watching Emerson grow more confident. The romance is sweet and very light, 100% clean.
Now I want to read the next book, which includes pirates!! XD
May 15, 2020
This was an enjoyable twist on a mermaid story. I really liked Emerson; his creativity and resourcefulness, his introverted shyness that gave him more than one opportunity to be brave...
If you like clean, adventurous stories of fantasy, I would recommend this book.
If you like clean, adventurous stories of fantasy, I would recommend this book.
December 1, 2019
The writing style seemed overly simplistic at first, but it really grew on me. A fantastic main character gives the story heart. I'll definitely be continuing this series.
3.5 out of 5 stars
3.5 out of 5 stars
May 16, 2023
Pleasurable Read!
This is one of those books that just hit right.
Likes:
~As always, gotta mention that awesome cover! Love the color schemes.
~The super short chapters made this a very quick read.
~The writing style was fun and engaging. It was so easy to get lost in the story.
~The fantasy world-building was immersive and downright fun.
~Let's talk Emerson! Sweet, creative, and anxious Emerson. He was the best part of the story. Faulty yet adorable. He had some lessons to learn the hard way but he's an underdog to root for. I liked just about all the characters, really.
~The mermaid plot sold me but there was so much more to the storyline, and I was there for every bit. While there are paranormal elements, don't let that drive you away. I thought they were very very mild and not scary.
Dislikes:
~Towards the end and only for a couple of chapters, I started to lose interest.
~Saria and Emerson...as cute as they are...
Overall:
~4 glowing stars! The writing, characters, plot, and worldbuilding all really appealed to me and I had the most awful time putting it down. I've already started book 2, Phantoms.
~Strongly recommend if you enjoy seaside adventures, unlikely heroes, unsolved murders, and mysteries of the deep. Okay, maybe that last one was a bit dramatic but, in all seriousness, this was amazingly good, and you should totally give it a read!
This is one of those books that just hit right.
Likes:
~As always, gotta mention that awesome cover! Love the color schemes.
~The super short chapters made this a very quick read.
~The writing style was fun and engaging. It was so easy to get lost in the story.
~The fantasy world-building was immersive and downright fun.
~Let's talk Emerson! Sweet, creative, and anxious Emerson. He was the best part of the story. Faulty yet adorable. He had some lessons to learn the hard way but he's an underdog to root for. I liked just about all the characters, really.
~The mermaid plot sold me but there was so much more to the storyline, and I was there for every bit. While there are paranormal elements, don't let that drive you away. I thought they were very very mild and not scary.
Dislikes:
~Towards the end and only for a couple of chapters, I started to lose interest.
~Saria and Emerson...as cute as they are...
Overall:
~4 glowing stars! The writing, characters, plot, and worldbuilding all really appealed to me and I had the most awful time putting it down. I've already started book 2, Phantoms.
~Strongly recommend if you enjoy seaside adventures, unlikely heroes, unsolved murders, and mysteries of the deep. Okay, maybe that last one was a bit dramatic but, in all seriousness, this was amazingly good, and you should totally give it a read!
February 3, 2019
4.5 stars for an unexpectedly delightful story about a young inventor's encounter with the mermaids everyone in his island village fears. I say "unexpected" because the story took twists and turns that surprised me and made for a rich reading experience. The story has a 17th century feel with realistic details and a nail-biting climax! The MC begins the story as naive and affectionately absent-minded, but the villagers go from seeing him as an oddity or an annoyance to a threat after he discovers the truth about the "mermaids." Recommended for anyone who likes fantasy with a fairy tale feel and, of course, mermaids.
May 11, 2018
Mermaids with a twist...
This was a fabulous fantasy with a great mystery. The characters are delightful and the writing keeps you engaged from start to finish. Mermaid lovers will enjoy this new take on mermaid legends.
This was a fabulous fantasy with a great mystery. The characters are delightful and the writing keeps you engaged from start to finish. Mermaid lovers will enjoy this new take on mermaid legends.
July 25, 2022
What a very unique read! I’m not a fan of fantasy at all, but I gave it a shot and to my surprise, I actually enjoyed the concept of this book. The author crafted the characters in a relatable manner, and I’m excited to dive into the rest of this series!
February 28, 2019
Hints of an Irish tale
Love the simple story line that kept me up to read. The characters came to life, and I found myself rooting for Emerson and Saria.
Love the simple story line that kept me up to read. The characters came to life, and I found myself rooting for Emerson and Saria.
Read
December 29, 2021Review and rating to come...
2nd read and I still need to review it...
*shakes head sadly at my excessive procrastination*
2nd read and I still need to review it...
*shakes head sadly at my excessive procrastination*
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews