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Broken Tides #3
Maelstrom
A white tide is crashing.
Jade flees home to Thessalonike to find her brother kidnapped and the king assassinated. As the city awaits the arrival of a conquering foreign army, violence surges between the Royal Mer Guard and the revolutionaries, and everyone Jade loves is caught in the ensuing riptide. If the Neptunian army arrives before the city unites, nothing can stop Thessalonike from falling.
Floundering to navigate treacherous currents, Jade must rescue her brother before it's too late. And as the city descends into turmoil, she must resist the lure of violence and hatred that threatens to swallow her whole.
Can the city mend its divisions to face the Neptunian threat, or will its factions tear it apart? And can Jade protect her loved ones amid the swelling torrent?
Experience the stunning culmination of Jade's story in Maelstrom, the final novel in a spine-tingling series of YA mermaid fantasy books. If you like enigmatic mystery, stirring romance, and harrowing intrigue, you'll love Catherine Jones Payne's riveting underwater world.
Dive into a page-turning adventure perfect for fans of Alexandra Christo, Leigh Bardugo, and Kiera Cass.
Jade flees home to Thessalonike to find her brother kidnapped and the king assassinated. As the city awaits the arrival of a conquering foreign army, violence surges between the Royal Mer Guard and the revolutionaries, and everyone Jade loves is caught in the ensuing riptide. If the Neptunian army arrives before the city unites, nothing can stop Thessalonike from falling.
Floundering to navigate treacherous currents, Jade must rescue her brother before it's too late. And as the city descends into turmoil, she must resist the lure of violence and hatred that threatens to swallow her whole.
Can the city mend its divisions to face the Neptunian threat, or will its factions tear it apart? And can Jade protect her loved ones amid the swelling torrent?
Experience the stunning culmination of Jade's story in Maelstrom, the final novel in a spine-tingling series of YA mermaid fantasy books. If you like enigmatic mystery, stirring romance, and harrowing intrigue, you'll love Catherine Jones Payne's riveting underwater world.
Dive into a page-turning adventure perfect for fans of Alexandra Christo, Leigh Bardugo, and Kiera Cass.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 4, 2018
50 people are currently reading
243 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
December 27, 2023
Solid conclusion to a trilogy full of thought-provoking themes, engaging characters, and sudden twists. I'm here for any story where the protagonist surprises me with her choices, and this book had plenty of those.
January 24, 2019
This book is probably the saddest of the series. Can Jade bring her family back together after her brother is kidnapped and the new Crowned Prince refuses to be helpful? Some negativity dealt with in this book are prejudice, treason/revolutionaries, a few beloved characters are killed.
Jade also helps a criminal in this story and it gets her into more trouble than she's ever known. Just as this point is getting resolved, Thessalonike goes to war. And Payne knows how to write in a very descriptive way so even though you're just reading it, it's still horrific.
Peace to Aunt Junia, Orua and Maximus. Pippa was so awesome in this story, I wanted to really hug her. Really thought Cassian would have a bigger role in the story, was disappointed about that. I believed after the fiasco in Breakwater with Alexander that there was a possibility Jade would end up with Cassian. I just never felt that Alexander was trustworthy and he was immature, but I guess the author had different plans for him.
The war part takes place about 75% in, but if you're a sensitive reader you might want to consider skipping that part. There is LOTS of blood, dead bodies, sharks, screaming, and even one dragon that goes after Jade. Kiki was SO AWESOME in that part but it was still SO VIOLENT.
Then the naiads came to help the mer and I was already crying and that made me cry even more because of how the city had abused and slaughtered them from Breakwater and yet they came back to help defeat the enemy. The best part of this violence was that it forces the mer people to band together for once and fight as one. Yeah, this conclusion really tugs at your emotions!
It really is a great series and loved Jade in every decision she made, there was just some details I didn't agree with.
Jade also helps a criminal in this story and it gets her into more trouble than she's ever known. Just as this point is getting resolved, Thessalonike goes to war. And Payne knows how to write in a very descriptive way so even though you're just reading it, it's still horrific.
Peace to Aunt Junia, Orua and Maximus. Pippa was so awesome in this story, I wanted to really hug her. Really thought Cassian would have a bigger role in the story, was disappointed about that. I believed after the fiasco in Breakwater with Alexander that there was a possibility Jade would end up with Cassian. I just never felt that Alexander was trustworthy and he was immature, but I guess the author had different plans for him.
The war part takes place about 75% in, but if you're a sensitive reader you might want to consider skipping that part. There is LOTS of blood, dead bodies, sharks, screaming, and even one dragon that goes after Jade. Kiki was SO AWESOME in that part but it was still SO VIOLENT.
Then the naiads came to help the mer and I was already crying and that made me cry even more because of how the city had abused and slaughtered them from Breakwater and yet they came back to help defeat the enemy. The best part of this violence was that it forces the mer people to band together for once and fight as one. Yeah, this conclusion really tugs at your emotions!
It really is a great series and loved Jade in every decision she made, there was just some details I didn't agree with.
March 8, 2024
The climactic ending to a well-crafted, unique mermaid story. Definitely enjoyed!
January 11, 2022
I'm not entirely sure what I think of this one, hence why I can't decide between 2.5-3 stars or 3.5-4 stars. I did expect there to be a little more about some things, but alas.
December 31, 2018
Maelstrom was a very satisfying conclusion to Catherine Jones Payne’s Broken Tides Trilogy. Jade's transformation from a young, naive, privileged noble to a strong, politically aware, compassionate woman was as believable as the underwater world of Thessalonike. Readers may have their political beliefs challenged and/or changed by reading this series.
May 13, 2024
Hmmmm…
I like how the tension continues and hard choices have to be made but the conclusion was not super satisfactory to me. The climax seemed too fast and abrupt and then the ending felt unfinished.
Here’s what I mean. I think the Neptunian angle was too much. There was already tension and drama with the naiads and the anti-monarchists. I think that’s could have been explored and solved and been an amazing story. Adding the Neptunians seemed almost random. However, I think there is more to explore in this world. Like the seven kingdoms they keep taking about. Maybe the Neptunians could have shown up in another series that broadened the world. That’s not what happened but I do think more stories would be a good idea.
I get not wrapping everything up but maybe an epilogue to see how things progress?
Still, this is an excellent series. It’s quality storytelling, unique and interesting, and deals with good lessons without being preachy. Recommended for 14+.
I like how the tension continues and hard choices have to be made but the conclusion was not super satisfactory to me. The climax seemed too fast and abrupt and then the ending felt unfinished.
Here’s what I mean. I think the Neptunian angle was too much. There was already tension and drama with the naiads and the anti-monarchists. I think that’s could have been explored and solved and been an amazing story. Adding the Neptunians seemed almost random. However, I think there is more to explore in this world. Like the seven kingdoms they keep taking about. Maybe the Neptunians could have shown up in another series that broadened the world. That’s not what happened but I do think more stories would be a good idea.
I get not wrapping everything up but maybe an epilogue to see how things progress?
Still, this is an excellent series. It’s quality storytelling, unique and interesting, and deals with good lessons without being preachy. Recommended for 14+.
December 29, 2018
I've enjoyed this whole series so far. It is a mermaid tale that deals with several "classes" of underwater "peoples". The mer in Jade's city hold themselves better than the other classes and many persecute the "lower" classes. They are ruled by a king who holds supreme power. In this story, the king has died and his wishy-washy son takes his place. The Naiads have left the city and are living in Marbella, a democratic society. Alexander and Jade have returned to their city after a political trip to Marbella, discovering further the sins of Felix. There is one mer who is trying to silence or kill those in Jade's family, and they have no idea why.
This isn't your Little Mermaid tale. There is a lot of action, some romance, and a look at the darker side of society.
This is a clean read.
This isn't your Little Mermaid tale. There is a lot of action, some romance, and a look at the darker side of society.
This is a clean read.
August 17, 2019
A Worthy Conclusion to an Epic Trilogy
I have always enjoyed Catherines worldbuilding. Normally when I read mermaid tales it's about the mermaid trying to interact with the surface world and these books, and this last one in particular describe a world so set part from our own and so unique that you can't help but be picked into it.
I'd give a more thorough synopsis but if you're here, you've read booms 1 and 2 so you know what coming, a rescue, a showdown of epic proportions and a clash of civilizations.
I have always enjoyed Catherines worldbuilding. Normally when I read mermaid tales it's about the mermaid trying to interact with the surface world and these books, and this last one in particular describe a world so set part from our own and so unique that you can't help but be picked into it.
I'd give a more thorough synopsis but if you're here, you've read booms 1 and 2 so you know what coming, a rescue, a showdown of epic proportions and a clash of civilizations.
December 6, 2019
What a devastating but perfect ending to the broken tides series. I'm really sad that so many good characters died, especially Maximus. I was hoping him and Orua would live. I'm glad the traitor Octavian is dead. Im not sad at what happened to Elias. But I am so sad about theo 😔 It was a devastating book! When the naaids came in to save the day, I was in tears. After everything that was done to them, they still wanted to save the city and still helped! Just a perfect ending all around. Even after all the loss, there was a lot to celebrate.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2025
A thrilling end to a fabulous story!
I simply cannot say enough for this series! I enjoyed it thoroughly! I thought that I sitting down with a YA mermaid story and I ended up being waist deep into a mystery that led me right into the middle of a war zone. And the fact that the naieds saved the day with coming back and beating back the enemy was just icing on the cake! The story teaches us how we shouldn’t feel prejudiced about our neighbors and how we can help each other in times of crisis! I definitely recommend this series!
I simply cannot say enough for this series! I enjoyed it thoroughly! I thought that I sitting down with a YA mermaid story and I ended up being waist deep into a mystery that led me right into the middle of a war zone. And the fact that the naieds saved the day with coming back and beating back the enemy was just icing on the cake! The story teaches us how we shouldn’t feel prejudiced about our neighbors and how we can help each other in times of crisis! I definitely recommend this series!
January 6, 2019
This was an excellent end to the series! I think I will have to go back and read all three books back to back to put together all the threads, but that will not be a hardship. I especially enjoyed the character development Jade went through and the relevancy of the issues brought to the forefront in this book (I MIGHT have felt convicted once or twice in regards to my own attitude.) I'm greatly looking forward to more from Catherine!
May 30, 2019
Payne does it again
I got hooked on these books with the first one about mer Alexander. But Jade's story has a special place in my heart. Fantasy is often missing people of color, so this trilogy is a real treat.
The author's attention to detail with mermaid life and the city will have you believing in them. Payne has become one of my favorite authors in a very short time.
I got hooked on these books with the first one about mer Alexander. But Jade's story has a special place in my heart. Fantasy is often missing people of color, so this trilogy is a real treat.
The author's attention to detail with mermaid life and the city will have you believing in them. Payne has become one of my favorite authors in a very short time.
February 15, 2020
I struggled to get into this one a bit. I think the start was slower than I'd have liked. But everything I like about this series is here again. I love that it's more political strategy through words than battle. And I like how we see that there is no clear solution, just the lesser of two evils so to speak.
April 10, 2022
hit and miss
I really enjoyed some parts of this book series, but no matter how much I wanted to… there were something I just couldn’t stomach. I’m glad Jade grew over time, still can’t stand Alexander… at all. I am happy for Pippa, loved Maximus… sad for his loss. And where did the princess go? The princes were discovered but what of their sister?
I really enjoyed some parts of this book series, but no matter how much I wanted to… there were something I just couldn’t stomach. I’m glad Jade grew over time, still can’t stand Alexander… at all. I am happy for Pippa, loved Maximus… sad for his loss. And where did the princess go? The princes were discovered but what of their sister?
January 2, 2020
Solid end to the adventure
I think this was a great way for the journey to end. Jade has been through so much in such a short time, not everything ends happily but a silver lining can be found in the pain and destruction and that seems a fitting end.
I think this was a great way for the journey to end. Jade has been through so much in such a short time, not everything ends happily but a silver lining can be found in the pain and destruction and that seems a fitting end.
May 24, 2020
Love this series!
As I hoped, this book exceeded my expectations! The plot twists and unexpected happenings kept me guess up to the end. I love when you really don't know if it will be a happy ending or not! Must read this to find out!
As I hoped, this book exceeded my expectations! The plot twists and unexpected happenings kept me guess up to the end. I love when you really don't know if it will be a happy ending or not! Must read this to find out!
May 4, 2023
Really good!
I really enjoyed this series! This is my first fantasy read and I’m sad that it came to an end. Definitely didn’t expect some of the things that happened but it all worked out. I hope to read about lady Jade and her family again in the future.
I really enjoyed this series! This is my first fantasy read and I’m sad that it came to an end. Definitely didn’t expect some of the things that happened but it all worked out. I hope to read about lady Jade and her family again in the future.
December 29, 2018
An excellent wrap up to the trilogy. I enjoyed the political intrigue and have loved seeing Jade's opinions and ideas develop. It will be a series I reread!
January 23, 2019
Entertaining mer adventure
Great world building and lots of coming of age trials that Jade must go through. Family and friends are also tried.
Great world building and lots of coming of age trials that Jade must go through. Family and friends are also tried.
February 13, 2019
Great books
OMG these books are so good. You won't want to put them down. I love these stories about love and family and prejudice. With a happy ending.
OMG these books are so good. You won't want to put them down. I love these stories about love and family and prejudice. With a happy ending.
November 7, 2019
The ending was a bit lacking but it was a good book overall.
November 28, 2020
A good charming ending to an interesting series. The only thing I wish she would fix is the ending. Felt a bit dragged out for drama, but other that, it was a great ending.
December 27, 2020
This was a good ending to a fun trilogy of mermaid YA books that have deep characters and deep themes about immigration, war, and violence.
June 30, 2022
Great Ending to the Trilogy
I loved how the ending battle kept me off balance, never quite knowing what was true. But the ending was about hope!
I loved how the ending battle kept me off balance, never quite knowing what was true. But the ending was about hope!
June 2, 2023
This was a good trilogy. It was a little heavy on the political talks for my liking, but I was able to get through it.
Jade had a great story to tell and it was awesome to see her grow and mature.
Jade had a great story to tell and it was awesome to see her grow and mature.
October 12, 2020
The Best in the Series... So Far
Overall: 4.97
What an awesome read! I hope the main story resumes.
Cover: 5
The attention to detail in this series just keeps getting better. Yet more elements of the story were introduced, some in full display and others ever so subtly. I'm just delighted.
Writing: 5
Beautiful prose is all over this book, and I'm not even sure if that is a result of the writer getting better at her craft, the characters growing up, or both. Again, Mrs. Jones picks up right where she left off, takes us up and down a roller coaster of emotions of every variety, color, and size and then... well, I wouldn't wanna spoil it for ya. READ IT! Though not absolutely necessary, I would recommend picking up A Gathering Tempest no later than between Breakwater and Crosscurrent, though.
Editorial: 4.9
This facet was almost perfect, and I'm giving it 4.9 stars not as punishment for the editorial team (I know it's very hard work; kudos, guys!) but as a clear conscience that I didn't just overlook certain errors just because I wish I missed them or they weren't there altogether. Yes, there is such thing as flawless editorial work.
Overall: 4.97
What an awesome read! I hope the main story resumes.
Cover: 5
The attention to detail in this series just keeps getting better. Yet more elements of the story were introduced, some in full display and others ever so subtly. I'm just delighted.
Writing: 5
Beautiful prose is all over this book, and I'm not even sure if that is a result of the writer getting better at her craft, the characters growing up, or both. Again, Mrs. Jones picks up right where she left off, takes us up and down a roller coaster of emotions of every variety, color, and size and then... well, I wouldn't wanna spoil it for ya. READ IT! Though not absolutely necessary, I would recommend picking up A Gathering Tempest no later than between Breakwater and Crosscurrent, though.
Editorial: 4.9
This facet was almost perfect, and I'm giving it 4.9 stars not as punishment for the editorial team (I know it's very hard work; kudos, guys!) but as a clear conscience that I didn't just overlook certain errors just because I wish I missed them or they weren't there altogether. Yes, there is such thing as flawless editorial work.
April 2, 2024
This book was a very well-written mermaid fantasy with a lot of related topics from the real world. Catherine wrote a solid conclusion to her trilogy, with very engaging and related characters, many twists, and not too childish and very thought-provoking themes. The main character was my favorite, even though she was a teen almost an adult she was not written as a child-minded highschool kid ( most fantasy love to portrait FL as an annoying teenager, and for that I don't get to enjoy the book) but the author did a great job with her books, love the level of maturity and growth she made all her characters go through. This was a very much appreciated book and can't wait to see what the author write again.
October 24, 2020
Shit has legit hit the fan in the third installment of the Breakwater Trilogy. Jade has pretty much had to step up for her family in ways that surely will age her. She has had to grow up so fast over the last couple of books and it really shows in Maelstrom. The character development for Jade from book one to now is purely amazing and it goes to show that you are never too old to learn what is right compared to what is just.
March 19, 2024
Maelstrom is an intense conclusion to this series of merpeople, murder, and mystery, with just enough death, resolution, and loose ends to create a satisfying, bittersweet, and realistic ending. And the author continued to weave in themes of justice, pursuing truth, and acting rightly.
So I liked it!
Content: a few kisses (not super descriptive), violence
So I liked it!
Content: a few kisses (not super descriptive), violence
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews