Larimar: Gem of the Sea

The Amielian Legends #1

by Christine E. Schulze

A fearless captain and a mysterious girl who walks on water. An underwater city and a destined deadly curse. What could possibly go wrong?

Captain Jorah is notorious for being one of the youngest explorers to ever sail Zephyrian waters. He's also notorious for landing his crew in situations they hadn't counted on—situations involving man-eating mermaids and other dangerous misadventures.

When Jorah decides to search for the legendary underwater City of Larimar, he doesn't account for the quest that follows. Rescued from shipwreck by a mysterious young lady who walks on water and carries a singing seashell around her neck, he soon finds himself reunited with an old friend once thought lost to him. Before he knows it, he’s caught up in a race against time to save her yet again, this time from a looming prophecy about a deadly serpent destined to consume her entire race.

Can Jorah help the girl save her people before the dark prophecy can complete itself?

The Amielian Legends is a collection of stand-alone young adult books, all set in the same fantastic universe, that can be read in any order. Read Larimar: Gem of the Sea and dive into new worlds filled with new adventures today!

Genres: Fantasy

140 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 17, 2011

About the author

Hullo there, dear reader! Christine E. Schulze here, author of YA fantasy, as well as a few kids’ books about special needs. I’ve been living in castles, exploring magical worlds, and creating fantastical romances and adventures since I was too young to even write of such stories. My collection of YA and children's fantasy books, The Amielian Legacy, is comprised of series and stand-alone books that can all be read separately but also weave together to create a single, amazing fantasy.

One of my main aspirations for The Amielian Legacy is to create grand fantasy adventures with characters that connect with readers from diverse backgrounds. My current focus is to include racially diverse characters, as well as those with disabilities. The latter is inspired by my day job working with adults who have autism and other developmental disabilities at Trinity Services in Southern Illinois.

I draw much of my inspiration from favorite authors like Tolkien and Diana Wynne Jones, favorite games like The Legend of Zelda, and especially from the people in my life. Some of my exciting ventures include the publication of my award-winning Bloodmaiden, as well as The Gailean Quartet, my first series with Words Matter Publishing. My books for younger readers include In the Land of Giants and The Amazing Captain K.

I love connecting with new raeders! Come find me on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, or at my author website: http://authorchristineschulze.com

On that note, God bless, happy reading, and may you be truly inspired! I’ll see you in my next book.

- Christine E. Schulze

Reviews

[Sherry Fundin · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of Christine E Schulze’s reasons for writing The Amielian Legacy was to enthrall readers with a fantastical adventure, with characters that will grab the reader’s imagination, bringing them along on an epic quest. Larimar: Gem of the Sea is the first novella of the series, and once I began reading, I didn’t stop until I was finished.

We begin with a map of the Four Realms, and at the end of the book Christine E Schulze explains their history.

Captain Jorah is at the helm of the Gem of the Sea, sailing on another adventure. There is no place he would rather be, and as we learn his story, we find this adventure was a long time coming. It will take him to places he never could imaging, encountering many magical creatures. He is good and kind. At times, his crew thinks he’s out of his mind, but they are loyal to the core.

Larimar seeks his help. Only a mortal can pull the sword, the Serpent’s Bane, from the stone and save the City of Larimar. Reminded me of a Charmed episode, and, of course, King Arthur.

If you love action and adventure, fantasy and characters that run the spectrum, from human to supernatural, quests to solve the riddles of myths and legends, then Larimar: Gem of the Sea by Christine E Schulze may be for you.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Larimar: Gem of the Sea by Christine E Schulze.

[Alex · Rating 2 out of 5]

***I received a free copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only to be reviewed.

Larimar follows a sea captain on a quest driven by a sense of adventure and self duty who journeys to find an ancient mermaid community.

Overall I really enjoyed the premise of this book. Schulze created a fun fantastical world and story that came to life with her enriched descriptive language. I enjoyed in particular how lyrical the descriptions of the settings and landscape features were.

I appreciated a strong sense of journeying and adventure and enjoyed the addition of female characters that held some agency and assisted the male protagonist.

However, this may be due to the form of the story, but parts felt rushed or unnatural or clunky. There was a lot of "telling" rather than "showing" which I understand can add to a fairytale element as if the story is being told to you, but this can also make it harder for a reader to fully immerse themselves within the narrative. It felt like the relationships between characters weren't fully substantiated and Jorah's crew seemed almost like a prop, it would've been nice to just have a paragraph or so describing them as individuals so there was more of a sense of community on the ship.

Also, I enjoy fantasy and generally don't have to suspend disbelief as I'm happy to fully believe in a fantastical world (or someone's fantastical version of our world), but the descriptions of race lost me. I assumed Arabis was meant to be a version of Arabia or something, especially as it was described as east of Spain, but then the protagonist was described as pale, which seemed bizarre for what the rest of the story seemed to claim. Also, as a person of colour I may be extra sensitive to descriptions relating to people of colour, but no matter how you dress it with rain from early spring or whatever, when you describe someone's skin colour to dirt, you're still comparing them to literal dirt. This description agitated me quite a bit, there are less tone deaf ways to describe race that can still be lyrical.

Additionally, this is minor but there appeared to be a typo on p24 with "so" instead of "no".

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short story that drew me in from the start. Once I started I didn’t stop reading until the story ended.
Romance, adventure, friendship, mermaids and a young sea Captain.
I received a copy of this book from the author via Voracious Readers Only.
I voluntarily decided to review it.

[Lynxie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Christine is a talented storyteller, her stories a complex, rich in description and while the writing craft isn't the best I have seen, she is still quite sound.

The tale of Larimar, gem of the sea should have been captivating, romantic and full of beautiful creativity, unfortunately it fell short of my expectations.

There were a few places where the characters got confused due to changes in name or scene, times when things that seemed important were glossed over and times when the plot felt supremely rushed.

I think this tale needs to be dissected and drawn out with some more of Christine's beautiful imagery, greater emphasis on the flavours of the tale too, not just they did this, went there and saw them.

A few things I noticed:

Typos picked up have been removed from this review at the authors request.

*NOTE: The author provided a copy of the book to me in return for an honest review*

[Lacey · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very nice story. I liked that it had more to do with enduring friendship then romance. I liked learning about Michael and his choice between what he wanted to do in his heart and what he was afraid he would be forced to do with his life. I did notice a discrepancy with the timeline of the story. At the beginning it states that Captain Michael is a young sea captain and only 19 years old. But the next section of the story is titled Rozul, 14 years ago and states that Michael is only 14. Later in the story, Michael asks Larimar about her capture 6 years ago. Other than that the story flowed well and was full of creative ideas.

[Zil Nedrub · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Complimentary copy of this book was received through Voracious Readers.

Lovely little story about island kingdoms, bejewelled cities under the sea and overcoming oppression and sweeping judgments.

This story is big on action and adventure. The story is fast paced without a lot of space for contemplation. While more time could also have been spent on character development, enough information is given to get a sense of them.

In the beginning Jorah's first mate is introduced but does not reappear in the story. This is a shame as he has a great wry humour which I missed in the rest of the book.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an amazing short read. This story is about a man that saves an underwater race from being devoured by a sea serpent. So much happens in just 50 pages. There is mystery, love and adventure. A cruel king, a downtrodden boy with rights to the throne, magic shells, mystical storms and a ships captain who believes in myths and legends. I haven't done my research yet because I was so excited to let you know how amazing this read was, but I hope there's a sequel.

[Karen Fox · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely short story of good over evil. A nice read whilst drinking my morning coffee before work. In a world where war and power are more important than the life you lead out steps Jorah a lad who's adventurous spirit will bring an end to that

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this lovely story from the author through Voracious Readers and enjoyed it so much had no hesitation in doing a review. A well written, easy to read, gem of an adventure. Suitable for all ages, as is not too long. Started reading and couldn’t put it down.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers, it’s not the genre I normally read but the book blurb seemed interesting and tempted me to read it. The author did a wonderful job in creating a vivid picture in my mind through the use of her word choices.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Recieved a free copy from Voracious Readers Only in exchange for a fair review).

Larimar: Gem of the Sea is a story about a Captain named Jorah who proves that legends are true. His current one brings him in contact with a person he met five years before. Together they must save a city of legend.

I personally thought the last two chapters were rushed. Other than that I really enjoyed it. The ending was well written. I definitly recommend it.

[Evie Asterwyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful tale with a great take on the mermaid meets a prince story. Loved this one!

[Tiara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Complimentary copy of the book was recieved from the author via Voracious Readers Only.

This book was so beautiful. A tale of good verses evil. This short story captivated me from the first page.

My only complaint is the length. A story as beautiful and a plot as strong as this could be expanded to make a full novel or even a series.

Overall, it is a beautiful story, a really quick, easy and fun read.

[DLV · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a Complimentary Copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only.
I read this Story without putting it down.
The characters are Great!!
I Enjoyed this Adventure/Romance Story!!

[Tina Billings · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received this book from Voracious Readers in return for a honest review.

This book was great!! Story was engaging, characters were well evolved, just wish it was longer. I need more adventures of Jorah!!

Will be adding this author to my list of must reads!

[Sarah-Jayne Briggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

I actually only intended to start reading this story today, since I was feeling tired and wasn't sure I could concentrate enough to finish it. I think it's a big point in the story's favour that I continued reading until the end.

I did really enjoy the story. I liked the characters and I think I'd like to see more with the supporting characters - whether other short stories or longer novels/novellas. Sometimes, I struggle to see a romance forming in a shorter story, especially one that's not just romance, because I've seen it just glossed over in other... well, even novellas before (Loki and Sigyn: A Love Story is a pretty good example of this). That wasn't the case here. Larimar and Michael worked well together and I found them both to be likeable characters.

One thing I will say - I think the flashback might have worked better as being at the beginning of the story and then have a timejump. Having the flashback didn't really detract from the story, but since it was fairly long, I thought it might have been better to have it split into two parts.

I liked the ending of the story. There's a sense that it's not the end and I always think that, with a story, it's good to have that sense of characters having lives outside of what's been told. I definitely thought that happened here.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via voracious readers only.

This book drew me in from page one. The writing really paints a picture of the world the story is set in. I was quite sad when I finished. I wanted to spend more time in this fascinating world with Larimar and Jorah. It is short (only six chapters fifty pages long) but it doesn't feel rushed. A book for all ages not just young adults.

[Jennifer Ricketts (Donnie Darko Girl) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this story from the author in exchange for an honest review.

I was immediately drawn into this story--Michael's character played a large role in that. He's brave and puts the safety of his crew before his own, and I really admired that about him. He gave up a life of luxury as a prince to become an explorer. I wanted to know about their past adventures before the one they embark on in this story. They sounded exciting and dangerous and would make for awesome reading!


Natalie was also a character I loved. She was dreamy and mystical, and I really appreciated the relationship between Michael and Natalie because it was different and special. I did find myself rooting for them to get together; I just couldn't help myself! I'm a sucker for romance. :)


This story was beautiful, a little dark, and magical. I loved all of the elements that were incorporated into the telling, and I highly recommend reading this. It was completely original and extraordinary. :D

[Antoinette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked it. Its a very different tale of two people who meet and become friends. A friendship that is so meaningful and true that it is what changes the future. I think it was nice, a bit of romance and action....it was a nice tale. I would say it is a story about an explorer who is searching for an underground city and he is looking for a beautiful maiden who lives in the sea, who he had helped six years before. It is of a unselfish person who is willing to help no matter the risk. It is believing in what you never seen and being courageous when never expected. It is standing up to and going against to be strong in danger and of family and friendship. I think its a must read and it would leave you wishing for more, but it was just as sweet short and given a great end.

[Oriana · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very nice short story. I thought she built up the captain really well, even before the background to his life was given. This altogether helped a connection be made with Michael so that when he finds Larimar, you couldn't help but wish for them to stay together.

I also liked the idea of the Queen of Larimar controlling the weather at sea and the legend they had to fulfil to survive. I just wonder with all these recent ship wrecks whether someone has upset the current queen. ;P

Anyhow...it was a nice read. Perfect for children who like mermaid stories ( though it technically didn't involve mermaids in that sense but the sea element is in there ).

[Alyssa Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always find the greatest gift in these stories is the themes of friendships that span life times and endure even the greatest tests of time, there is always a sense of great adventure and a deep meaning given to each one of the authors stories in a way that helps to progress the story. It shows that there is hope even in the darkest of times, for such a short story there is a lot of heart packed into it and that is what makes this such a great and inspirational tale of adventure, friendship, and not being afraid to follow your dreams.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this short story. Once again I just wish it was longer. I love story and that he is an explorer looking for all the amazing things we all dream were real. The Larimars sound fantastic and I enjoyed his back story. Thank you for sending me a copy Christine, this just might be my favourite by you :)

[Alegna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although a short read, it was truly a fascinating tale. Adventure into a mythical land for a friend he made long ago, this hero shows just how noble one can be and how strong friendships are, no matter the amount of years gone by.

[Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this short story. I feel like the ending may have been rushed a little. However, it was still a great book that anyone could love.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read - Christine has done a marvellous job of creating a fast paced story of Captain Jorah which comes full circle.

Would highly recommend

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Capt. Jorah is an avid explorer and he's at his happiest being on his ship and discovering new civilizations, myths and legends. He tries to find out if what he's read or heard is true. As a boy, he became friends with a prisoner of his land of Muriel. She was his age, fascinating and beautiful and said her name was Natalie. She needs a certain object then she can escape and go back home. He helps her and she does escape.
Years later, Capt. Jorah is on a mission to try to find the ancient City of Larimar. He hits a terrible storm. He has his men get the life boats and orders them to leave. He stays with his ship until it breaks up and he's thrown into the water. He hangs onto a piece of wood as he watches his beloved ship sink. All of a sudden the storm stops, a beautiful woman appears walking on the water. He recognizes her as the girl he helped years ago, only her name isn't Natalie but Larimar. She saves him and brings him to shore and gives him something to keep him safe. He's not done yet, he gets another ship and is going to find the ancient city of Larimar with the help of something special Larimar had given to him.
Even though this is a YA book, I just loved this story and the wonderful characters. There is no sex in this story, but it's so enjoyable I didn't care. It's a make you feel good story!! I definitely recommend it.

[Patricia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Captain Jorah is the youngest explorer out on the Zephyrian waters and he is always getting his crew into some pretty sticky situations . Now he is hunting for the underwater city of Larimar . What happens is an shipwreck and the help from a beautiful young woman saves him from a watery death . Now they are in a race against time to save her again . Can Jorah save the girl that haunts his dreams and save a whole society .
This is a short novella with some fun characters . Jorah is an explorer with a sweet smile and a penance of really getting into some tight spots . He seems to have a good sense of humor and a his crew seems to really care for him. The lost city Larimar seems like a take off of Atlantis,. The characters are well written but I felt like the book went to fast to really connect with them .
This is a story that you can sit down and read in about an hour. The author has a very descriptive way of writing that kind of sucks you. I would of loved to see the author expand her characters just a little bit . I felt like there is really more that could of been said and done to round out the book . I felt like we were just getting the tip of the ice berg. Don't get me wrong I did truly enjoy the book and would love to see where the author takes theses characters in other books . If you want a fast read for the lake check it out and tell me what you think.

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 1st book in a young adult magical fantasy series, full of a variety of creatures and magical abilites. In this story we get to meet a young Jorah who is supposed to be a prince, but who has no interest in ruling, and Larimar a young prisoner in the castle. He helps her escape and go back to the sea, a sea he is enamoured with, so much so that he trains with Titus, and becomes the youngest captain to travel the zephyrian sea. He seeks dangerous adventures to his crew's chagrin, and his latest is to seek the city of Larimar, the one below the waves. He is shipwrecked and a young woman walking on the waves comes to his rescue, the same young woman he had helped before. She tells him of a prophecy, a serpent about to surface and annihilate all her people, unless a human wields the sword to save them. Can Jorah be that human and save not only his dear friend, but also her people from the savage monstrous serpent? This is a beautiful tale of love and courage, of faith and hope, the strength of friendship and looking out for family. It is a story beautifully written which makes me want to continue reading the rest of the Amielian Legends.

[Kylie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Larimar is a short story about a Captain Jorah and his search for the underwater city of Larimar. While the idea for the story was a good one, I felt like it needed to be longer to do it justice. The character introductions are rushed and we don't know much about them. The timeline jumps around and is somewhat hard to figure out as the time line doesn't jump at each chapter but in the middle of chapters. This story is also mostly told to us as if we are being read a bed time story. I really did enjoy the characters that we were introduced to and the world building, but I just felt like it was really rushed and left me feeling a little "ehh" at the end.

I received a review copy from Story Origin.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jorah was born a royal but the only thing he wanted was to roam the world looking for treasures. Not the kind of gold and silver but of the truth of myths, legends and ancient civilizations. But when his life and crew are in danger, he sends them to safety and prepares to see if the legends of Larimar are true. When he is saved by a young woman who can walk on the water. She saves his live and disappears but not before giving a gift saying it will keep him safe. But he finds more then he bargained he finds out another legend is true and he is the only one who can help. Will he be able to help or will a prophecy come true.