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The Sirenia Chronicles #1
Changing Tides
MAGIC. SECRETS. MERFOLK.
It was supposed to be like any other free dive, except I drowned. At least, I was until a mermaid saved me… by transforming me into one.
Yes, a real freaking mermaid!
I can’t go home, but the mer community doesn’t trust an ex-human either. The mermaid who saved me is the only person I consider a friend, and her blood-boiling brother said he’s trying to help me.
Actions speak louder than words, bucko.
I am not wanted here, and I no longer belong on land. I’ve always considered the ocean my home, but until I convince those around me the same, my life hangs in the balance.
10% of author profits go towards ocean conservation.
Perfect for fans of LGBTQ+ characters, slow burn romance, real world science turned fantasy, adventure, and lovers of the ocean.
It was supposed to be like any other free dive, except I drowned. At least, I was until a mermaid saved me… by transforming me into one.
Yes, a real freaking mermaid!
I can’t go home, but the mer community doesn’t trust an ex-human either. The mermaid who saved me is the only person I consider a friend, and her blood-boiling brother said he’s trying to help me.
Actions speak louder than words, bucko.
I am not wanted here, and I no longer belong on land. I’ve always considered the ocean my home, but until I convince those around me the same, my life hangs in the balance.
10% of author profits go towards ocean conservation.
Perfect for fans of LGBTQ+ characters, slow burn romance, real world science turned fantasy, adventure, and lovers of the ocean.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2021
4 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Braddock
6 books63 followersCharacters and their worlds have inundated Kristen's mind since she was a kid. Traveling to far off places and having words on a piece of paper transform into entire scenes pulling at her emotions is an obsession.
Her goal as a fantasy author isn't solely to relish in her imagination, but to bring representation to this genre. She wants stories with characters who are diverse inside and out. Their differences are not the focal point of the narrative, but rather a natural part of their being. Due to this, you will often not only find characters of varying ethnicities, but also of the LGBTQ+ community, who battle diseases, are neurodiverse, and plenty of other areas that make us all so different from each other. These are not their defining qualities. It's simply a part of who they are.
When Kristen isn't cooped up on her computer or curled up with a book, she is often outdoors-- traveling, hiking, snorkeling, diving, camping, etc.
Currently, she resides in California with her husband and fur babies (two dogs and a cat).
You can join her newsletter, join her facebook page, or follow her on Instagram to stay up to date.
Her goal as a fantasy author isn't solely to relish in her imagination, but to bring representation to this genre. She wants stories with characters who are diverse inside and out. Their differences are not the focal point of the narrative, but rather a natural part of their being. Due to this, you will often not only find characters of varying ethnicities, but also of the LGBTQ+ community, who battle diseases, are neurodiverse, and plenty of other areas that make us all so different from each other. These are not their defining qualities. It's simply a part of who they are.
When Kristen isn't cooped up on her computer or curled up with a book, she is often outdoors-- traveling, hiking, snorkeling, diving, camping, etc.
Currently, she resides in California with her husband and fur babies (two dogs and a cat).
You can join her newsletter, join her facebook page, or follow her on Instagram to stay up to date.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
November 17, 2021
I received an ARC of Changing Tides in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 STARS ✨
Changing Tides follows the story of Billie who is still consumed by the grief of the loss of her parents four years ago, her true home is the ocean where she can truly find solace to sooth her mind from the isolation she’s placed herself in and she holds a soul deep passion for protecting the sea and the beauty of life within it. However, her determination results in being her downfall and, whilst trying to help, is placed in a near death situation which transforms everything she has ever known entirely. The world of Oceanus and the merpeople is arguably somewhere where Billie should feel at home and finally get a sense of belonging, but, like most situations in life, Billie quickly finds out that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side, or the ocean isn’t clearer the further you dive in its depths.
I rated the book four stars because I was so divided between 3.5 stars and 4, so I decided to round it up. It’s an incredibly easy read and flows in a way where you don’t necessarily need to hold a lot of concentration to understand the world, which is perfect for someone who has been in a reading slump after being ill half of the month. Braddock has written some truly phenomenal descriptions of sea life and the ocean which really makes the read something special and her passion for marine conservation really shines through the character of Billie.
This book’s release date truly is perfect contextually being published so shortly after COP26 when people are, or should be, having more conversations about the impact that we are having on our oceans. Yes, this is a fantasy book, but it highlights some incredibly important issues that everyone needs to be considering and I do like how Braddock has crafted that in her work and given it a dual meaning.
Personally, I found the first sixty percent of the book to be pretty slow, there were events going on, but I was just raring to get into the action, which the final parts of the book definitely delivered in. It does end on a cliffhanger and I am eager to find out what happens next as there were a lot of seeds sewn, especially in the last few chapters that I need explanations for. There is a suggestion that the protagonist is bisexual or pansexual later on in the novel and especially as the book is explained as being perfect for fans of LGBTQ+ characters, I would like to see more of that explored in book two as it was very brief, because, I’m not going to spoil anything, but I am interested in finding more about that character who made a very brief appearance, because I don’t think that they were supposed to be there.
Overall, I do think that this was a promising first book to the series and a great read, if you’re a fan of mermaids, self/contextual reflection and looking for something to keep you gripped, impatient for answers, then Changing Tides is definitely for you.
3.5 STARS ✨
Changing Tides follows the story of Billie who is still consumed by the grief of the loss of her parents four years ago, her true home is the ocean where she can truly find solace to sooth her mind from the isolation she’s placed herself in and she holds a soul deep passion for protecting the sea and the beauty of life within it. However, her determination results in being her downfall and, whilst trying to help, is placed in a near death situation which transforms everything she has ever known entirely. The world of Oceanus and the merpeople is arguably somewhere where Billie should feel at home and finally get a sense of belonging, but, like most situations in life, Billie quickly finds out that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side, or the ocean isn’t clearer the further you dive in its depths.
I rated the book four stars because I was so divided between 3.5 stars and 4, so I decided to round it up. It’s an incredibly easy read and flows in a way where you don’t necessarily need to hold a lot of concentration to understand the world, which is perfect for someone who has been in a reading slump after being ill half of the month. Braddock has written some truly phenomenal descriptions of sea life and the ocean which really makes the read something special and her passion for marine conservation really shines through the character of Billie.
This book’s release date truly is perfect contextually being published so shortly after COP26 when people are, or should be, having more conversations about the impact that we are having on our oceans. Yes, this is a fantasy book, but it highlights some incredibly important issues that everyone needs to be considering and I do like how Braddock has crafted that in her work and given it a dual meaning.
Personally, I found the first sixty percent of the book to be pretty slow, there were events going on, but I was just raring to get into the action, which the final parts of the book definitely delivered in. It does end on a cliffhanger and I am eager to find out what happens next as there were a lot of seeds sewn, especially in the last few chapters that I need explanations for. There is a suggestion that the protagonist is bisexual or pansexual later on in the novel and especially as the book is explained as being perfect for fans of LGBTQ+ characters, I would like to see more of that explored in book two as it was very brief, because, I’m not going to spoil anything, but I am interested in finding more about that character who made a very brief appearance, because I don’t think that they were supposed to be there.
Overall, I do think that this was a promising first book to the series and a great read, if you’re a fan of mermaids, self/contextual reflection and looking for something to keep you gripped, impatient for answers, then Changing Tides is definitely for you.
November 19, 2021
ARC Review
I loved the immersion into the underwater world. It was beautiful and seamless world-building.
I also liked Edmound! He was just such a warm character and felt his voice come through so well. In general I felt the characters were very varied and inclusive which I wholeheartedly support.
My only issue was the ending. I felt like we were getting somewhere and then it ended to abruptly for my taste (though it means I did enjoy it so much I didnt want it to end!). There was just not enough resolution for me. I feel like the reader gets invested and it had a cliff hanger before we feel we got anything enough to engage us. But certainly that it partly what is driving me to read book 2 asap!
I don't think there is enough mermaid stories out there at this quality and with so much relevant messaging and colourful characters. This one is a fine addition to the genre and I encourage more asap!
I loved the immersion into the underwater world. It was beautiful and seamless world-building.
I also liked Edmound! He was just such a warm character and felt his voice come through so well. In general I felt the characters were very varied and inclusive which I wholeheartedly support.
My only issue was the ending. I felt like we were getting somewhere and then it ended to abruptly for my taste (though it means I did enjoy it so much I didnt want it to end!). There was just not enough resolution for me. I feel like the reader gets invested and it had a cliff hanger before we feel we got anything enough to engage us. But certainly that it partly what is driving me to read book 2 asap!
I don't think there is enough mermaid stories out there at this quality and with so much relevant messaging and colourful characters. This one is a fine addition to the genre and I encourage more asap!
November 22, 2021
So good to see a human turning into a mermaid. I really enjoyed exploring under the sea through Billie's eyes. So many secrets though, I want to know more!
Even though it's marketed as lgbt the main romance is still m/f. She does dance and get flirty with a girl mermaid but that's near the end.
All in all really enjoyed this book and thankful to receive a review copy from the author.
Even though it's marketed as lgbt the main romance is still m/f. She does dance and get flirty with a girl mermaid but that's near the end.
All in all really enjoyed this book and thankful to receive a review copy from the author.
November 22, 2021
ARC Review
This was a really great quick read. I thought the idea of a girl saved by a mermaid by turning into a mermaid was really unique. All of the information about diving and the ocean was accurate, which I really enjoyed. It helped make the story seem more believable and real. I enjoyed the relationships between the characters as well. It does end on a cliffhanger, but considering it's the first in a series it makes sense. The next one is out next year, and I look forward to reading it! Also worth noting, 10% of the profits are donated to ocean conservation.
This was a really great quick read. I thought the idea of a girl saved by a mermaid by turning into a mermaid was really unique. All of the information about diving and the ocean was accurate, which I really enjoyed. It helped make the story seem more believable and real. I enjoyed the relationships between the characters as well. It does end on a cliffhanger, but considering it's the first in a series it makes sense. The next one is out next year, and I look forward to reading it! Also worth noting, 10% of the profits are donated to ocean conservation.
November 13, 2021
🌊 Changing Tides - Kristen Braddock 🌊
🧜♀️Human turned Mermaid
👥 Striving to fit in
🐟 Cold fish
🔥 Slow burn?
🧐 Something is fishyyyy (and it's not the actual fish)
MAGIC. SECRETS. MERFOLK.
When Billie finds herself drowning she thinks it's the end. The ocean will take her life as it took her parents. But a mermaid (yes, you read that right) saves her.... by turning her into a mermaid herself! 🌊
Billie is a fish out of water even in the mer-community and until she can convince them she's not a danger her life hangs in the balance. But there's something fishy going on - will Billie be able to help the Merfolk before it's too late? 🐟
Omg can I just start with saying I was so frustrated with Billie the entire time she's just trying to fit in and do as she's told while some SUPER SUSPICIOUS STUFF IS GOING ON. Not once does she go snooping or trying to get to the bottom of things and how can I figure it out if Billie isn't collecting clues? Come on I gotta know!!! 😤
Overall I enjoyed this book. I loved that it was about mermaids, and I liked how all of the ocean info was incorporated and the underwater worldbuilding (like bioluminescent fireworks - so cool) 🎆
I was completely suckered in by all the suspicious goings on around the Royal Mer Family, with certain Mer Factions wanting to get rid of Billie, the looming threat of the Abssyals and something being covered up - which thanks to BILLIE we don't even remotely get to the bottom of 😂 I don't want to spoil so I'll just refer to it as "suspicious stuff".
I liked the characters - Veron was so cute and made me smile! I hope she's not invlolved in the suspicious stuff. Gavin is a COLD FISH. Man, you barely opened up to Billie. Are you even the love interest after all? Because you could have fooled me!!! If he is, it's super slow burn. AND he's definitely somehow involved in the suspicious stuff. 🧐
The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger and I NEED to know so many things still. I'll be waiting for the next book!🧜♀️
🧜♀️Human turned Mermaid
👥 Striving to fit in
🐟 Cold fish
🔥 Slow burn?
🧐 Something is fishyyyy (and it's not the actual fish)
MAGIC. SECRETS. MERFOLK.
When Billie finds herself drowning she thinks it's the end. The ocean will take her life as it took her parents. But a mermaid (yes, you read that right) saves her.... by turning her into a mermaid herself! 🌊
Billie is a fish out of water even in the mer-community and until she can convince them she's not a danger her life hangs in the balance. But there's something fishy going on - will Billie be able to help the Merfolk before it's too late? 🐟
Omg can I just start with saying I was so frustrated with Billie the entire time she's just trying to fit in and do as she's told while some SUPER SUSPICIOUS STUFF IS GOING ON. Not once does she go snooping or trying to get to the bottom of things and how can I figure it out if Billie isn't collecting clues? Come on I gotta know!!! 😤
Overall I enjoyed this book. I loved that it was about mermaids, and I liked how all of the ocean info was incorporated and the underwater worldbuilding (like bioluminescent fireworks - so cool) 🎆
I was completely suckered in by all the suspicious goings on around the Royal Mer Family, with certain Mer Factions wanting to get rid of Billie, the looming threat of the Abssyals and something being covered up - which thanks to BILLIE we don't even remotely get to the bottom of 😂 I don't want to spoil so I'll just refer to it as "suspicious stuff".
I liked the characters - Veron was so cute and made me smile! I hope she's not invlolved in the suspicious stuff. Gavin is a COLD FISH. Man, you barely opened up to Billie. Are you even the love interest after all? Because you could have fooled me!!! If he is, it's super slow burn. AND he's definitely somehow involved in the suspicious stuff. 🧐
The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger and I NEED to know so many things still. I'll be waiting for the next book!🧜♀️
December 20, 2021
Young Adult Merpeople
More of a 3.5 star book for me. I really don't enjoy cliffhangers and this one had one of the worse ones I've read in awhile. I mean, you have to read the next one to get any answers at all. I have to say that is not great for me.
Having said all that, I still enjoyed the book. It made a lot more sense than some mermaid books I've read as far as how they cook their food or have light in their homes or many other everyday things they do. They talk about bathrooms and about fish eggs but nothing about how they use the bathrooms or procreate with a full length tale is discussed. I'm sure others will be wondering as well. It is young adult but the main character Billie is considered an adult in her human life. And she is really interested in a merman that is a bit older than her. So it was kinda like a new adult book but written for young adults if that makes sense? Or maybe just a clean romance. And I should mention that Billie is a new mermaid due to dying in the ocean and being saved by a mermaid.
There's plenty of scary moments and adventure to be had here. For the most part I enjoyed the read and just wish that it ended at a better place. There’s quite a bit about ocean conservation and what needs to be done to help clean up our oceans. A percentage of the sales are being given to ocean conservation which is admirable on the authors part. Recommended to young adults or people that enjoy adventure with a hint of romance. FYI the sequel won’t be out until October of 2022. That’s a long wait for how bad that cliffhanger is. 3.5 stars.
More of a 3.5 star book for me. I really don't enjoy cliffhangers and this one had one of the worse ones I've read in awhile. I mean, you have to read the next one to get any answers at all. I have to say that is not great for me.
Having said all that, I still enjoyed the book. It made a lot more sense than some mermaid books I've read as far as how they cook their food or have light in their homes or many other everyday things they do. They talk about bathrooms and about fish eggs but nothing about how they use the bathrooms or procreate with a full length tale is discussed. I'm sure others will be wondering as well. It is young adult but the main character Billie is considered an adult in her human life. And she is really interested in a merman that is a bit older than her. So it was kinda like a new adult book but written for young adults if that makes sense? Or maybe just a clean romance. And I should mention that Billie is a new mermaid due to dying in the ocean and being saved by a mermaid.
There's plenty of scary moments and adventure to be had here. For the most part I enjoyed the read and just wish that it ended at a better place. There’s quite a bit about ocean conservation and what needs to be done to help clean up our oceans. A percentage of the sales are being given to ocean conservation which is admirable on the authors part. Recommended to young adults or people that enjoy adventure with a hint of romance. FYI the sequel won’t be out until October of 2022. That’s a long wait for how bad that cliffhanger is. 3.5 stars.
November 27, 2021
Billie’s whole life changed the second she got trapped in the ocean. Sure, she was saved, but at what cost? Billie is now a mermaid, surrounded by those who look down on her for once being a human. Billie feels alone and unwanted, as the only people who stick up for her are Veron, the mermaid who saved her, and Gavin, Veron’s skeptical, snarky older brother.
Although Gavin claims he’s trying to help her, Billie is constantly infuriated by his actions. And since the rest of the underwater population seems to hate her, she’s worried about her safety as well. Billie’s always loved the ocean, but she’ll live in fear (but not acceptance) unless convince her new people of that fact.
Braddock is a wonderful author, and I was so excited when I realized she was going to publish a new series. I absolutely loved this new world she’s created! The world building was incredible, and I was hooked from the first chapter. I loved reading about Billie’s journey, and as for that ending… well, I’ll be lying in wait for book two!!!
Billie. I really feel for her. She’s dealing with the death of her parents and her struggle to feel okay mentally and emotionally, when all of a sudden she gets turned into a mermaid. And the people don’t even accept her! I love that she didn’t back down and stood up for herself when the other merpeople were being unnecessarily cruel. If you love mermaids and adventure, than this is definitely the book for you!!!
Although Gavin claims he’s trying to help her, Billie is constantly infuriated by his actions. And since the rest of the underwater population seems to hate her, she’s worried about her safety as well. Billie’s always loved the ocean, but she’ll live in fear (but not acceptance) unless convince her new people of that fact.
Braddock is a wonderful author, and I was so excited when I realized she was going to publish a new series. I absolutely loved this new world she’s created! The world building was incredible, and I was hooked from the first chapter. I loved reading about Billie’s journey, and as for that ending… well, I’ll be lying in wait for book two!!!
Billie. I really feel for her. She’s dealing with the death of her parents and her struggle to feel okay mentally and emotionally, when all of a sudden she gets turned into a mermaid. And the people don’t even accept her! I love that she didn’t back down and stood up for herself when the other merpeople were being unnecessarily cruel. If you love mermaids and adventure, than this is definitely the book for you!!!
November 5, 2021
Two of my favourite's meld together in this appealing story, merpeople and the ocean. Having always loved the ocean, I love how descriptively alive the author makes the ocean, I feel as one with it and the various creatures, the colours the vibrant nuances, the beauty and the danger. I loved how Kristen highlights a very real environmental problem, all within the storyline, pertinent to the tale. I loved the world beneath the surface, so realistic. Billie's entire existence has been turned on it's tail (literally!) and she is thrust into a society she has no clue how to navigate. Her sense of wonder is so authentic, loved it. She is accepted by some but loathed and ostracized by others and she realises she is not as safe as she assumed. She's feisty and strong, even though she's out of her depth, she strives to find her place. I enjoyed the characters, they are all multi layered and interesting, from the impulsive, fun loving Veron, to the stoic, reserved Gavin, to the warm, gentle, kind Edmound. Just as Billie is finding her feet, or tail in this case, an attack by a renegade faction, has her relegated to the safety of the palace. And then all hell breaks out! And the ending! The cliffhanger had jaw on my chest! I can't wait to read how Kristen spins this tale going forward, like peeling an onion, one layer at a time, whilst keeping me engaged and enthralled.
November 22, 2021
A story that grabbed me from its beautiful cover and left me with my heart beating a mile a minute with that ending.
Changing Tides has been an incredible, but short read that will always remain in my memory and in my heart, because I liked many things about this book that I hope to tell you without giving too many spoilers.
Let's start the main character, a girl who has lost her parents and must face and accept this fact, who knows that, who has taken care of her those years, has done the best to make her well and now she must face the reality that she is a mermaid. Wow. What a roller coaster.
I thought it would be more mysterious or bring more suspense that Billie, the main character, has become a mermaid. I expected it to take time and beforehand, I should mention that I liked the friendship of Billie and Veron, who turned her and it was nice and sad that she won't forget her aunt, who had given herself to her since her parents died and showed concern for what she might think.
Among my favorite places is the palace, because it reminded me of my childhood, when I watched the Disney series ''The Little Mermaid'', I also liked the world or universe of the Merpeople and the curious thing about getting drinking water.
When I was half way through the book I felt a little discouraged, although I was getting to know this world of Mermaids and Tritons, but I didn't feel that there was enough action, although approaching the final chapters there was a little, like the attack of a shark and that end so disturbing that makes you create a lot of theories for the second book.
Also, this book makes you create awareness about marine life and makes you want to protect it, as well as you read that this affects and bothers the Merpeople and that's why they are angry with Billie and the rest of the humans, because it is a reality that we are finishing with the oceans.
Of Gavin's character I was curious about the mysteries or secrets he has yet to reveal, but I was also annoyed by his attitude in general and couldn't connect with him. I was also intrigued by the secrets in this story that make me want to read the second book to find out.
I loved this story, it had highs and lows, but what I liked most was the great call to take care of our planet, especially the oceans.
Thank you so much, Kristen Braddock for allowing me to read this story, I hope to soon learn Billie's fate and join her on her next adventure.
Changing Tides has been an incredible, but short read that will always remain in my memory and in my heart, because I liked many things about this book that I hope to tell you without giving too many spoilers.
Let's start the main character, a girl who has lost her parents and must face and accept this fact, who knows that, who has taken care of her those years, has done the best to make her well and now she must face the reality that she is a mermaid. Wow. What a roller coaster.
I thought it would be more mysterious or bring more suspense that Billie, the main character, has become a mermaid. I expected it to take time and beforehand, I should mention that I liked the friendship of Billie and Veron, who turned her and it was nice and sad that she won't forget her aunt, who had given herself to her since her parents died and showed concern for what she might think.
Among my favorite places is the palace, because it reminded me of my childhood, when I watched the Disney series ''The Little Mermaid'', I also liked the world or universe of the Merpeople and the curious thing about getting drinking water.
When I was half way through the book I felt a little discouraged, although I was getting to know this world of Mermaids and Tritons, but I didn't feel that there was enough action, although approaching the final chapters there was a little, like the attack of a shark and that end so disturbing that makes you create a lot of theories for the second book.
Also, this book makes you create awareness about marine life and makes you want to protect it, as well as you read that this affects and bothers the Merpeople and that's why they are angry with Billie and the rest of the humans, because it is a reality that we are finishing with the oceans.
Of Gavin's character I was curious about the mysteries or secrets he has yet to reveal, but I was also annoyed by his attitude in general and couldn't connect with him. I was also intrigued by the secrets in this story that make me want to read the second book to find out.
I loved this story, it had highs and lows, but what I liked most was the great call to take care of our planet, especially the oceans.
Thank you so much, Kristen Braddock for allowing me to read this story, I hope to soon learn Billie's fate and join her on her next adventure.
November 22, 2021
Overall this is a good YA mermaid fantasy. Billie is living her life on autopilot, not really finding much direction since the death of her parents, and the only thing that gives her any solace is the ocean, something that her parents loved and instilled in her. But when she finds herself caught during a free dive, she’s shocked when the person who comes to save her turns out to be a mermaid, and now, she is one too.
She’s caught between the two worlds, missing her life on land and her aunt, even though she can’t go back, but fascinated by the mermaid life. Some are more accepting than others, and she struggles to feel totally comfortable in her new surroundings. At times the story gets a bit preachy about the terrible things that humans are doing to the ocean - while not wrong, the tone just gets to be a little much, but it’s not usually strong enough for me to be completely put off. One of the biggest conflicts is the mermaids hate for humans and what they’re doing to their home. But humans so rarely get turned into mermaids, and an old poem hints that there is something more to what Billie is now faced with.
This really seems a lot like a big book of world building, but it’s an interesting world with interesting characters, and I’m curious to see where the story goes from here.
She’s caught between the two worlds, missing her life on land and her aunt, even though she can’t go back, but fascinated by the mermaid life. Some are more accepting than others, and she struggles to feel totally comfortable in her new surroundings. At times the story gets a bit preachy about the terrible things that humans are doing to the ocean - while not wrong, the tone just gets to be a little much, but it’s not usually strong enough for me to be completely put off. One of the biggest conflicts is the mermaids hate for humans and what they’re doing to their home. But humans so rarely get turned into mermaids, and an old poem hints that there is something more to what Billie is now faced with.
This really seems a lot like a big book of world building, but it’s an interesting world with interesting characters, and I’m curious to see where the story goes from here.
November 21, 2021
If you love mermaids and a slow build up
Let me first start off, that I struggled with the rating. For me it's more a 3.5 but I think if this is your style book it deserves a 4. Hence, as there's no half point rating, I m rounding it up.
What I disliked:
- the pacing: the story starts really fast (much sooner than I thought). I thought we'd see a bit more of her as a human.... But then everything else after felt quite slow. When I hit the 60% mark I was really wondering when the action and suspense would kick in.
- FL: unfortunately, I couldn't relate to Billie. She was a bit too naive and stubborn... Then again, it is a YA book. I don't want a perfect FL but the way she dealt with things would annoy me at times. Again, this is a personal preference so I m sure other folks can relate to it.
What I liked:
- the world building is beautiful and easy to understand.
- For people who are unaware of what's happening to our oceans, this is a great introduction to the waste pollution and fishing industry.
So if you love mermaids, rich world building and don't mind a slower pace, this book is for you.
Let me first start off, that I struggled with the rating. For me it's more a 3.5 but I think if this is your style book it deserves a 4. Hence, as there's no half point rating, I m rounding it up.
What I disliked:
- the pacing: the story starts really fast (much sooner than I thought). I thought we'd see a bit more of her as a human.... But then everything else after felt quite slow. When I hit the 60% mark I was really wondering when the action and suspense would kick in.
- FL: unfortunately, I couldn't relate to Billie. She was a bit too naive and stubborn... Then again, it is a YA book. I don't want a perfect FL but the way she dealt with things would annoy me at times. Again, this is a personal preference so I m sure other folks can relate to it.
What I liked:
- the world building is beautiful and easy to understand.
- For people who are unaware of what's happening to our oceans, this is a great introduction to the waste pollution and fishing industry.
So if you love mermaids, rich world building and don't mind a slower pace, this book is for you.
November 11, 2021
Changing Tides
by Kristen Braddock
I adored this book! Braddock does an amazing job world building Oceanus and creating great characters. If you love The Little Mermaid and YA Fantasy, this book is for you!
Billie is a human girl who is transformed into a mermaid by Veron, who saved her from drowning. Veron and her brother, Gavin, help Billie adjust to life in Oceanus (even when Gavin sometimes doesn't always say the right things). As Billie adjusts to life, not everyone is happy a human girl has been transformed, much less now living with the merpeople. Billie comes across some of these angry merpeople and is trying to find her footing in this new world.
I really understood Billie and her desire for the human world to take ocean pollution more seriously. This book makes you think about your own life and what choices you can make to help create positive change. This was a great quick read and I can't wait to read the next book because that cliff hanger has me stressed!
by Kristen Braddock
I adored this book! Braddock does an amazing job world building Oceanus and creating great characters. If you love The Little Mermaid and YA Fantasy, this book is for you!
Billie is a human girl who is transformed into a mermaid by Veron, who saved her from drowning. Veron and her brother, Gavin, help Billie adjust to life in Oceanus (even when Gavin sometimes doesn't always say the right things). As Billie adjusts to life, not everyone is happy a human girl has been transformed, much less now living with the merpeople. Billie comes across some of these angry merpeople and is trying to find her footing in this new world.
I really understood Billie and her desire for the human world to take ocean pollution more seriously. This book makes you think about your own life and what choices you can make to help create positive change. This was a great quick read and I can't wait to read the next book because that cliff hanger has me stressed!
November 22, 2021
3.5 stars
NOTE: I was given a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
Billie is suffering from the loss of her parents and finds comfort in the ocean. One morning, she goes diving in an attempt to clear her head, but one little misstep changed everything...
▪️good world building
▪️very very abrupt ending. Like beyond a cruel cliffhanger.
▪️the story pace is FAST. Sometimes it moves too quickly for my liking
▪️slow burn romance
▪️some of the story came off more like a PSA about cleaning the oceans forced abruptly into the story
▪️I wish we had seen more of the relationship with Billie and Veron. Given how they met, you expect more.
▪️ there's something we don't know about the council. We're missing something here and what happened at that meeting..hope we find out more in book 2
▪️I really like the author's writing. It was enough to paint some beautiful imagery and create such a magnificent world without overdoing it.
▪️recommend for those who like mermaids, ocean, ya, fantasy, slow burn romance, the little mermaid
NOTE: I was given a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
Billie is suffering from the loss of her parents and finds comfort in the ocean. One morning, she goes diving in an attempt to clear her head, but one little misstep changed everything...
▪️good world building
▪️very very abrupt ending. Like beyond a cruel cliffhanger.
▪️the story pace is FAST. Sometimes it moves too quickly for my liking
▪️slow burn romance
▪️some of the story came off more like a PSA about cleaning the oceans forced abruptly into the story
▪️I wish we had seen more of the relationship with Billie and Veron. Given how they met, you expect more.
▪️ there's something we don't know about the council. We're missing something here and what happened at that meeting..hope we find out more in book 2
▪️I really like the author's writing. It was enough to paint some beautiful imagery and create such a magnificent world without overdoing it.
▪️recommend for those who like mermaids, ocean, ya, fantasy, slow burn romance, the little mermaid
November 3, 2021
I loved this story. This is the first Mermaid book I've read, and I was pleasantly surprised. I loved Billie's story from the start to be honest just because I related to her pain.
Her character growth, and let me tell you is a lot, was inspirational. From being alone to fighting for a place to belong and then all these obstacles in the way, it made for an amazing story. She has a lot of potential and let me tell you with that ending I kind of hope she and the supposed villain has a thing because usually it's the bad guys who brings out all your deepest desires and fights, although we haven't met this group of people as of yet so to say I'm excited is an understatement. I didn't expect the ending, I thought something would happen because of the people against her being apart of their people but not that.
I'm so invested I need book two ASAP. I cannot wait to see what happens next. This story has so much potential in book two so let's bring on 2022.
Her character growth, and let me tell you is a lot, was inspirational. From being alone to fighting for a place to belong and then all these obstacles in the way, it made for an amazing story. She has a lot of potential and let me tell you with that ending I kind of hope she and the supposed villain has a thing because usually it's the bad guys who brings out all your deepest desires and fights, although we haven't met this group of people as of yet so to say I'm excited is an understatement. I didn't expect the ending, I thought something would happen because of the people against her being apart of their people but not that.
I'm so invested I need book two ASAP. I cannot wait to see what happens next. This story has so much potential in book two so let's bring on 2022.
November 4, 2021
Fascinating. Honestly was the one word I could say after finished this novel. Going in knowing it’s a series I had expected the slow pace. Setting the world (or worlds as it’s human and merfolk ) but just woah. Kristen really captured my attention with its realism. The actual facts and knowledge with Billies driving to the actual issues around the world we are having.
What if there is this uncharted world we aren’t aware of or have explored yet and we as humans just keep on moving forward without the realization what we are doing to our world.
This book connected with me more so than anything else recently because I absolutely love the water. The wild life and the unknown. I connected so easily with Billie, not at the
loss a parent but someone close that changed my world. I’m emotionally invested now that I need the next book.
That cliffhanger though. Dang you !
What if there is this uncharted world we aren’t aware of or have explored yet and we as humans just keep on moving forward without the realization what we are doing to our world.
This book connected with me more so than anything else recently because I absolutely love the water. The wild life and the unknown. I connected so easily with Billie, not at the
loss a parent but someone close that changed my world. I’m emotionally invested now that I need the next book.
That cliffhanger though. Dang you !
November 25, 2021
Absolutely devoured this in one sitting.
The world building, the explanation of the colors, the different fish, how under the sea looks, I was mesmerised.
At some points I was actually quite terrified, I mean, I can't swim and I'm petrified of drowning! So being based underwater was scary but at the same time I was so on edge that I needed to keep going!
But oh man, the deep, the darkness, boy that was scary!
I truly adored this book and in all honesty its not something I ever thought I would pick up, but it completely flipped me around! (No mermaid pun intended)
On a side note, I have a theory, about the Abyssals and Billies parents! But I mean, I have alot of theories about alot of books and they never turn out right! So this leaves me in a predicament and on edge waiting for the next book!
Also, David! Tut. What have you been up too! I'm so intrigued. This book gripped me.
The world building, the explanation of the colors, the different fish, how under the sea looks, I was mesmerised.
At some points I was actually quite terrified, I mean, I can't swim and I'm petrified of drowning! So being based underwater was scary but at the same time I was so on edge that I needed to keep going!
But oh man, the deep, the darkness, boy that was scary!
I truly adored this book and in all honesty its not something I ever thought I would pick up, but it completely flipped me around! (No mermaid pun intended)
On a side note, I have a theory, about the Abyssals and Billies parents! But I mean, I have alot of theories about alot of books and they never turn out right! So this leaves me in a predicament and on edge waiting for the next book!
Also, David! Tut. What have you been up too! I'm so intrigued. This book gripped me.
November 6, 2021
This was a really fun and entertaining read. There was a good mix of light and heavy, a nice dose of angst. I enjoyed diving (see what I did there? lol) into this world. The writing was great, the world-building and descriptions really helped to set the mood. The character interactions were believable. I also appreciated that the author added some of the knowledge she has gathered through her own education and work dealing with marine life and its recent struggles due to pollution.
If you are looking to read a book that is not only entertaining but makes you think about some steps that you could take to prevent any more destruction to our oceans, then Changing Tides is a book you'll want to read.
If you are looking to read a book that is not only entertaining but makes you think about some steps that you could take to prevent any more destruction to our oceans, then Changing Tides is a book you'll want to read.
November 8, 2021
Changing Tides is a successful first book of a series, drawing you in with great world building and adding real life environmental concerns without feeling specifically preachy. To me however, there were some drawbacks, the timeline slips in and out--meaning something happens and its only after the fact that it is established its weeks later, not days, and the characters and conversations can sometimes feel juvenile--this may just be because I am beyond being a young adult--so the characters don't quite resonate with me the same way they might with others. Overall though, the story line is fast paced and interesting. The ocean world comes alive and is truly believable. I will be picking up book 2 when available.
November 24, 2021
𝙉𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙖𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙘𝙚𝙖𝙣 , 𝙄 𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙨. 𝙉𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙥𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙮. 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙚.
Billie feels so at home in the ocean, it's her home away from home... Till she nearly dies, and a mermaid saves her by turning her into one... Now as a mermaid she cannot go back to her human home, and the ocean is the only home she has...
A home where she feels unwelcome, a home where she is not as capable as the rest of the mer-folk, a home where she is determined to prove her usefulness to the community...
As she's struggling and making progress towards fitting in, she gets mer-napped... The book ended on this HUGE cliffhanger, and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in this series...
Billie feels so at home in the ocean, it's her home away from home... Till she nearly dies, and a mermaid saves her by turning her into one... Now as a mermaid she cannot go back to her human home, and the ocean is the only home she has...
A home where she feels unwelcome, a home where she is not as capable as the rest of the mer-folk, a home where she is determined to prove her usefulness to the community...
As she's struggling and making progress towards fitting in, she gets mer-napped... The book ended on this HUGE cliffhanger, and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in this series...
November 20, 2021
I really likes this book! It was a fast paced-read that left me wanting more when it ended!
The main character Billie is struggling with finding her place in the world after losing both her parents years earlier. The ocean is the one place that brings her happiness, but while snorkeling she nearly drowns. A mermaid saves her life by turning her into one of them! Not only are these mythical creatures real, but they have an entire city hidden deep in the ocean! Billie tries to navigate this new life under the sea!
I really enjoyed this world and characters Kristen created! I can’t wait to see what happens next after that ending!
The main character Billie is struggling with finding her place in the world after losing both her parents years earlier. The ocean is the one place that brings her happiness, but while snorkeling she nearly drowns. A mermaid saves her life by turning her into one of them! Not only are these mythical creatures real, but they have an entire city hidden deep in the ocean! Billie tries to navigate this new life under the sea!
I really enjoyed this world and characters Kristen created! I can’t wait to see what happens next after that ending!
November 21, 2021
The new book from her is again a super fast and exciting read. It is also the very first book about mermaids I ever read. It also talks about a lot of important topics like the waste in our water. I really liked the different personalities and perspectives. I hope we can learn more about the different stories and motives. Especially from the mermaids. I really hope we find out more about Billies family. I am really excited if there will be a love relationship between her an Gavin. And that cliffhanger, that was really hard for me. I am really looking forward reading the next one in these series. I need the next one and that now. Thank you for that!
November 22, 2021
This book is great fun with real heart.
You can tell Kristen Braddock has a marine science and diving background, mixing science and magic and weaving it in seamlessly. I love how her writing captures that wonder we humans have when exploring the ocean depths.
This isn't at all preachy; these are people struggling with issues and navigating relationships. Kristen Braddock does a great job of bringing characters to life, with their own agendas and hopes and dreams. There are laugh out loud moments and real heart-jerking scenes. This is perfect for the YA audience who like drama and relationships with meaning and a splash (sorry not sorry) of science.
You can tell Kristen Braddock has a marine science and diving background, mixing science and magic and weaving it in seamlessly. I love how her writing captures that wonder we humans have when exploring the ocean depths.
This isn't at all preachy; these are people struggling with issues and navigating relationships. Kristen Braddock does a great job of bringing characters to life, with their own agendas and hopes and dreams. There are laugh out loud moments and real heart-jerking scenes. This is perfect for the YA audience who like drama and relationships with meaning and a splash (sorry not sorry) of science.
November 22, 2021
*ARC review*
This was a super fun, quick read! The gorgeous cover was what originally drew me to the book and I'm glad that it did.
I didn't originally find Billie (our MC) to be that likeable, appearing selfish and annoying at times, but that all changed by the end! And also, this is only the first book so I can't wait to see how she does when she's used to being a mermaid!
Gavin and Veron were our two main supporting characters. Gavin (I'm sorry but I can't take him serious with that name; I've watched too much Gavin and Stacey) is who I'm assuming to be our love interest in later books. I actually quite like him and am excited to see what secrets he holds himself because after that ending, we know they're there! Veron is such a nice best friend character. She's supportive and obviously wants the best for Billie.
I'm excited to see where this story leads us as this was a short - but amazing - introduction into Oceanus and the Mer people!
This was a super fun, quick read! The gorgeous cover was what originally drew me to the book and I'm glad that it did.
I didn't originally find Billie (our MC) to be that likeable, appearing selfish and annoying at times, but that all changed by the end! And also, this is only the first book so I can't wait to see how she does when she's used to being a mermaid!
Gavin and Veron were our two main supporting characters. Gavin (I'm sorry but I can't take him serious with that name; I've watched too much Gavin and Stacey) is who I'm assuming to be our love interest in later books. I actually quite like him and am excited to see what secrets he holds himself because after that ending, we know they're there! Veron is such a nice best friend character. She's supportive and obviously wants the best for Billie.
I'm excited to see where this story leads us as this was a short - but amazing - introduction into Oceanus and the Mer people!
November 22, 2021
Billie died. Or at least she thought she did until a mermaid turned her into one, causing her to say goodbye to the human world forever. But the merworld doesn't trust her, and the only person she can call friend is Veron, the one who changed her and maybe her brother Gavin.
I loved the merworld immersion that the author created. It was unique and the story telling was incredible. This was a fun, fast paced read, but leaves you on an awful cliffhanger that leaves you needing book two asap!
I loved the merworld immersion that the author created. It was unique and the story telling was incredible. This was a fun, fast paced read, but leaves you on an awful cliffhanger that leaves you needing book two asap!
November 11, 2021
Billie has suffered her fair share in life. As death was on her door, she was changed. Her new life under the ocean is filled with many challenges. She must learn a whole new way of living, knowing she can never return to life on land. This is a well paced enjoyable story. I highly recommend this book for teen to adult.
February 18, 2024
Kristen is a fantastic writer and this beautifully descriptive book is a showcase of her talent. YA magic with incredibly powerful undercurrent (see what I did there?) of modern issues all while diving deep into the ocean. I absolutely loved the imagery, the lovely descriptions and the meld of magic, merfolk, science and all around darn good YA fantasy awesomeness.
November 9, 2021
Changing Tides by Kristen Braddock.
Sirenia Chronicles, Volume 1.
I really enjoyed this book. Long chapters. But worth it. I hope the next book comes soon. Great story and characters. Apart from Harris. 5*.
Sirenia Chronicles, Volume 1.
I really enjoyed this book. Long chapters. But worth it. I hope the next book comes soon. Great story and characters. Apart from Harris. 5*.
November 25, 2021
This book was awesome, but that cliffhanger left me wanting more!
A human gets turned into a mermaid and has to learn how to live with them. While trying to give them information on humans and why they do the things they do that hurts the ocean. What could go wrong?
A human gets turned into a mermaid and has to learn how to live with them. While trying to give them information on humans and why they do the things they do that hurts the ocean. What could go wrong?
November 21, 2021
I enjoyed this book. It took some turns I wasn't expecting. I love the characters and the storyline. I look forward to reading more stories by Braddock.
November 24, 2021
Enjoyable and wanting more
Love the world building, the struggles, and all the real science to develop the mer-society. Recommended to anyone looking for a YA mermaid book.
Love the world building, the struggles, and all the real science to develop the mer-society. Recommended to anyone looking for a YA mermaid book.
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