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Skin of the Sea #2
Soul of the Deep
For fans of The Gilded Ones, Children of Blood and Bone, and Circe, this is the breathtaking follow-up to SKIN OF THE SEA - an epic love story infused with West African mythology and a powerful new imagining of a devastating time in history, told through the eyes of a bold and unforgettable heroine.One life. One choice. One sacrifice.To save those closest to her, Simi sacrificed everything - her freedom, her life as mami wata, and the boy she loves.Now she serves a new god, watching over the Land of the Dead at the bottom of the ocean. But the tide of change is coming and when Simi discovers demons have entered the human realm bent on destruction, she must break her vow and return to the world above the water.The fate of the world lies in her hands.Praise for SKIN OF THE SEA - a NEW YORK TIMES 'Epic and original . . . Simi's story will stay with me for a long time' Nicola Yoon, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Everything, Everything'The most engrossing, thought-provoking, beautiful novel . . . knocks your socks off and leaves you wanting more' Namina Forna, New York Times bestselling author of The Gilded Ones'A triumph of storytelling' Kalynn Bayron, bestselling author of Cinderella is Dead'This poignant supernatural romance stands out for its sensuous prose' Financial Times'Fantastical creatures and vengeful gods form a vivid backdrop to this rich and original story of one girl's journey to find herself' Observer (YA Books of Month)
304 pages, Paperback
First published September 27, 2022
235 people are currently reading
9400 people want to read
About the author
Natasha Bowen
11 books1,239 followersNatasha Bowen is a writer, a teacher, and a mother of three children. She is of Nigerian and Welsh descent and lives in Cambridge, England, where she grew up. Natasha studied English and creative writing at Bath Spa University before moving to East London, where she taught for nearly ten years. Her debut book was inspired by her passion for mermaids and African history. She is obsessed with Japanese and German stationery and spends stupid amounts on notebooks, which she then features on her secret Instagram. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, watched over carefully by Milk and Honey, her cat and dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 652 reviews
November 13, 2022
This is book two in the Skin of the Sea series. I liked the first one a lot more than this one, but this was a nice conclusion to the story. I love the mythology woven between the words of the story. I also love the creative world. I thought the story was rushed and I was confused that a lot of this story was kind of wiping away what happened in the last (which is a weird way for a sequel to go). Simi is serving in the Land of Dead - her sacrifice to save those she cared for leaving her miserable in the deep dark below. Until she learns that all is not what she thinks with the deal she made and the world above. Overall I gave this one 3.5 stars, rounded up for the cool African Mythology.
September 3, 2022
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Soul of the Deep is the second installment within the Skin of the Sea series. The first book was so freaking good and made me super excited to jump into this one. Now while this was good, it wasn't my absolute favorite. The whole open ending slightly annoyed me because I have so many questions. Maybe we will get another book? If not, I will riot.
In this, we have lots of action, drama, and betrayals. With so many characters to keep track of, I had no idea who I could or couldn't trust. Sure, at one point I kept focusing on Esu and how they just seemed untrustworthy. Then Ara comes into the picture and completely surprises me. As for Kola and Simi, things are definitely starting to add up and make more sense.
Secretly hoping Natasha announces another book is on the way. I'm not sure how I will feel if this is the last book because there's so much more to explore. I would also like a reunion between certain characters for sure. Other than that, I'm happy that I found my way to this series. Definitely need another book.
Soul of the Deep is the second installment within the Skin of the Sea series. The first book was so freaking good and made me super excited to jump into this one. Now while this was good, it wasn't my absolute favorite. The whole open ending slightly annoyed me because I have so many questions. Maybe we will get another book? If not, I will riot.
In this, we have lots of action, drama, and betrayals. With so many characters to keep track of, I had no idea who I could or couldn't trust. Sure, at one point I kept focusing on Esu and how they just seemed untrustworthy. Then Ara comes into the picture and completely surprises me. As for Kola and Simi, things are definitely starting to add up and make more sense.
Secretly hoping Natasha announces another book is on the way. I'm not sure how I will feel if this is the last book because there's so much more to explore. I would also like a reunion between certain characters for sure. Other than that, I'm happy that I found my way to this series. Definitely need another book.
September 13, 2022
This is the second instalment in the Skin of the Sea series.
Simidele was once saved by the sea, but now she is imprisoned in it. She traded her heart and her freedom for the safety of others and now must spend her days on the sea bed, preparing the dead for their next journey. But when old enemies resurface, she must find a way to free herself from her present prison or the entire kingdom above will fall to the waves, along with her.
Simidele, as one of the Mami Wata, presented the perspective of both the human and the fantastical other. She felt everything so keenly and it made her insights imbued with high emotion at all times. She found as much to appreciate in sunlight as she did in the world beneath the waves, but found elements to mourn in both too. There was always wonders to experience but loss to feel, which made this book one full of as much awe and beauty as it was grief and pain.
I adored how steeped in mythology this was. Creatures appeared, abilities were uncovered, and battles were fought consistently, making this a fast-paced read. It almost veered on the edge of becoming a little confusing on times, so regularly were these new elements introduced, but the author ensured her reader did not stumble as she took the time to deliver proper introductions even as action was allowed to dominate.
I adored the conclusion to this story, which saw a hoped-for resolution come to fruition but also the appearance of something other I did not anticipate. It ensured closure for this narrative but also hope to be conjured for a continuation in Simidele's story.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, Natasha Bowen, and the publisher, Penguin, for this opportunity.
Simidele was once saved by the sea, but now she is imprisoned in it. She traded her heart and her freedom for the safety of others and now must spend her days on the sea bed, preparing the dead for their next journey. But when old enemies resurface, she must find a way to free herself from her present prison or the entire kingdom above will fall to the waves, along with her.
Simidele, as one of the Mami Wata, presented the perspective of both the human and the fantastical other. She felt everything so keenly and it made her insights imbued with high emotion at all times. She found as much to appreciate in sunlight as she did in the world beneath the waves, but found elements to mourn in both too. There was always wonders to experience but loss to feel, which made this book one full of as much awe and beauty as it was grief and pain.
I adored how steeped in mythology this was. Creatures appeared, abilities were uncovered, and battles were fought consistently, making this a fast-paced read. It almost veered on the edge of becoming a little confusing on times, so regularly were these new elements introduced, but the author ensured her reader did not stumble as she took the time to deliver proper introductions even as action was allowed to dominate.
I adored the conclusion to this story, which saw a hoped-for resolution come to fruition but also the appearance of something other I did not anticipate. It ensured closure for this narrative but also hope to be conjured for a continuation in Simidele's story.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, Natasha Bowen, and the publisher, Penguin, for this opportunity.
June 28, 2025
The sequel to Skin of the Sea duology is pretty action packed! Taking place in 1500s West Africa, this book uses more African legends and less Grimm elements than the first book. The imagery of the gems, water drumming, tentacled monsters inspired by Congo legends, and trees that eat people were exciting and well written. I enjoyed the first book more probably because I liked getting to know the characters for the first time, and this book focuses more on the characters relationship and fighting sea monsters. The romance could have benefitted from a little more character work. There were moments the protagonists' inner world was well portrayed, there were just some elements that could have been expanded on more. The afterword explains where some of the legends came from, it would have been neat to see some of that incorporated into the story as well.
3.75 *
3.75 *
September 26, 2022
So I really enjoyed the first book and went into this one with fairly high expectations. However, I was rather underwhelmed.
One thing that stayed consistent from the first book was the writing. I really like Bowen's way of writing. She knows how to set a scene and allows this amazing visual to come through. There's a poetry and grace in her words, almost as if she's telling these old folklore tales and not a YA book published in 2022.
And it's also not that I didn't like the characters. I did feel for them and rooted for them to complete their mission. I was also happy to see so many familiar faces weave throughout this book as so many things were left unsolved from the first book. But despite the good, there were things I wasn't sold on.
One of these things was the pacing. For being a fairly short book, it seemed to take me forever to read. Sections just dragged and the pacing was way off. I would find myself getting bored by the never ending journey with not a lot happening. A lot of the plot points were dragged out to the point that a lot of the information was redundant.
But I think that my biggest issue was how this book pretty much erased everything that was done in the first one. All the trials and pain the characters went through was pretty much washed away within the first few chapters. And that just didn't sit right with me. It really felt like this was a completely separate story from the first one and the only thing connecting them is the fact that it's the same characters. Idk, this might just only irk me but it just seemed like putting characters in perilous situations just because.
I almost wish I would have left it at the first book. But I still am interested in what this author will come out with next. I would definitely give her new books a read.
One thing that stayed consistent from the first book was the writing. I really like Bowen's way of writing. She knows how to set a scene and allows this amazing visual to come through. There's a poetry and grace in her words, almost as if she's telling these old folklore tales and not a YA book published in 2022.
And it's also not that I didn't like the characters. I did feel for them and rooted for them to complete their mission. I was also happy to see so many familiar faces weave throughout this book as so many things were left unsolved from the first book. But despite the good, there were things I wasn't sold on.
One of these things was the pacing. For being a fairly short book, it seemed to take me forever to read. Sections just dragged and the pacing was way off. I would find myself getting bored by the never ending journey with not a lot happening. A lot of the plot points were dragged out to the point that a lot of the information was redundant.
But I think that my biggest issue was how this book pretty much erased everything that was done in the first one. All the trials and pain the characters went through was pretty much washed away within the first few chapters. And that just didn't sit right with me. It really felt like this was a completely separate story from the first one and the only thing connecting them is the fact that it's the same characters. Idk, this might just only irk me but it just seemed like putting characters in perilous situations just because.
I almost wish I would have left it at the first book. But I still am interested in what this author will come out with next. I would definitely give her new books a read.
August 11, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review!
2.5 stars
Again, just like with the first book, my main issue is with the characters of this world. The concept of the book is amazing, but it all just fell quite flat for me once again. I just wish that Kola and Simi were friends; I don't feel the chemistry between them, and this forced romance just takes away from the actual interesting part of the book which is the rest of the plot, because it is just shoved in there every page.
A large problem for me is that the events of the first book are pretty much undone within the first 50 pages, and so the entirety of the first book just didn't matter, which is not the route a sequel should take in my opinion. The pacing is so fast, just like in book 1, but it just went too fast - you barely got to see anyone's reactions to anything that happened, and it leaves you feeling even more disconnected, and Simi was frustrating me throughout because she made rash decisions without talking to anyone else about it.
The ending feels like we're leading onto another book, but if there is going to be one, I don't think I'll be picking it up sadly.
2.5 stars
Again, just like with the first book, my main issue is with the characters of this world. The concept of the book is amazing, but it all just fell quite flat for me once again. I just wish that Kola and Simi were friends; I don't feel the chemistry between them, and this forced romance just takes away from the actual interesting part of the book which is the rest of the plot, because it is just shoved in there every page.
A large problem for me is that the events of the first book are pretty much undone within the first 50 pages, and so the entirety of the first book just didn't matter, which is not the route a sequel should take in my opinion. The pacing is so fast, just like in book 1, but it just went too fast - you barely got to see anyone's reactions to anything that happened, and it leaves you feeling even more disconnected, and Simi was frustrating me throughout because she made rash decisions without talking to anyone else about it.
The ending feels like we're leading onto another book, but if there is going to be one, I don't think I'll be picking it up sadly.
October 12, 2024
Update: there's a cover and it's so beautiful!
...
I might be getting a little ahead of myself here, what with not even a cover and the fact that I'm still halfway through the first book in this series. But I'm already so excited for this sequel!
...
I might be getting a little ahead of myself here, what with not even a cover and the fact that I'm still halfway through the first book in this series. But I'm already so excited for this sequel!
Want to read
April 4, 2022idk didn't like the first one but i'll put it on my tbr anyways because i'm problematic :)
August 15, 2023
“I think of all my own memories, reclaimed and mine. To know where you came from holds so much power over how you feel about yourself.”
TW: blood, body horror, colonization, death, death of a loved one, injury/injury detail, kidnapping, murder, slavery, terminal illness, trafficking, violence, war.
My feelings on this book are much the same as they were for book 1. In fact, I could probably copy and paste most of my review for Skin of the Sea and not have to change much at all for it to describe my thoughts.
Briefly, this was very much okay. It follows in the footsteps of the first book, having an incredible concept but an execution that I genuinely struggle with. From the romance to the actual arc of their journey, I can't help but feel like I'm missing... something. Like this has been a seven book series with years of build-up, rather than a pretty short duology with characters that have known each other for an extremely short period of time.
All that being said, I still love how the historical elements are woven in with the fantasy. I love reading about the author's portrayal of Mami Wata and the cultural aspects of the setting, I just simply wish I had enjoyed the story itself more than I did.
Still, I do recommend this duology to anyone that loves mermaids and/or books with a heavy focus on mythology.
TW: blood, body horror, colonization, death, death of a loved one, injury/injury detail, kidnapping, murder, slavery, terminal illness, trafficking, violence, war.
My feelings on this book are much the same as they were for book 1. In fact, I could probably copy and paste most of my review for Skin of the Sea and not have to change much at all for it to describe my thoughts.
Briefly, this was very much okay. It follows in the footsteps of the first book, having an incredible concept but an execution that I genuinely struggle with. From the romance to the actual arc of their journey, I can't help but feel like I'm missing... something. Like this has been a seven book series with years of build-up, rather than a pretty short duology with characters that have known each other for an extremely short period of time.
All that being said, I still love how the historical elements are woven in with the fantasy. I love reading about the author's portrayal of Mami Wata and the cultural aspects of the setting, I just simply wish I had enjoyed the story itself more than I did.
Still, I do recommend this duology to anyone that loves mermaids and/or books with a heavy focus on mythology.
August 7, 2023
Everything began right until they weren't
I loved book one. Reading it knowing it's a duet, I was anticipating that the second book will shed more light on what happened and why and how the characters developed especially the Romance between Simi and Kola because she was obsessed with him
Kola this Kola that Kola Kola Kola
So the book begins were book 1 ended
Simi is now bound by her word to Okulun to stay with him in the Land of the Dead
And for a bitter Orisa, I thought he treated her quite fine
Her friend Folasade finds her and informs her that Esu probably wasn't returned to the Supreme God and because of that Chaos erupted because someone was trying to free the anti-gods whom were bound by Esu
While on the surface I vestigating, she sees Kola on a ship and que love struck 🤩
Simi finds Esu still imprisoned, frees him and takes him to Yemoje which makes Olucun angry
So far, the story was well written and intriguing with good pacing
But then everything went downhill
The writer was so consumed in including all the beautiful African historical culture in less than 300 pages that what we left with was info after info with little connection to each other
And I get it, I really do. Representation and drawing from history is important
But not a 300 pages book where you have to
- solve a conflict
- present a romance
- show internal struggle
- have flashbacks
- connect the characters
Somehow all these backgrounds felt lost
But my biggest issue was with
1- the characters themselves
2- how the romance was handled
Simi has a flaw. She is rash and impulsive. I get that! But girl! Haven't you learned from your mistakes! Folasade clearly tells her "don't act rash and wait for Yemoje"
But what does Simi do? She takes the decision herself
And over and over we see her doing this then blaming herself for acting rash
And the way she was obsessing over Kola you'd thing she'd be over the moon staying with him. But ... I'll get to that later
And where is her promise to Olucun! The poor guy helped her over and over as she promised she would plead his case! But she didn't! So selfish
As amatter of fact! She did come out as selfish! Sure she sacrificed herself! But did she though? Everything was about her
And this is my problem with first POV in fantasy
Esu, the villian of book 1, was presented as this cunning smart all powerful orissa. In book 2 he is turned into a 🤡 clown!! An eating machine! I lost all respect I had for him
Where are the twins! The whole of book 1 is about how the world will end if the twins and the rings are not saved and we get one tiny scene of them doing nothing
Kola, where do I begin with this one
Well, first of all, I never believed he loved Simi. There was no indication of his GREAT LOVE
As a matter of fact, he was avoiding her all the time. And we get like one dialogue between them!
She had a better romance chance with Yimka if you asked me
The only character I felt was worth reading was Folasade and she died so that Simi and Kola could be together
What a waste
2- the romance in this book was non existence. All we get is Simi obsessing over Kola
We never feel his side
And the number of times she says "we can never be" started getting on my nerve! We get it
So to see how this was resolved in the end was laughable
Kola is an Orisa!!!! What! That is one blessed family! Yemoje makes him a Mami Wata using Folasade's shell! How convenient
So what does Simi do? She leaves him to go look for her parents 😅😅 because " she has to be herself"
Sorry
This was not handled well
I loved book one. Reading it knowing it's a duet, I was anticipating that the second book will shed more light on what happened and why and how the characters developed especially the Romance between Simi and Kola because she was obsessed with him
Kola this Kola that Kola Kola Kola
So the book begins were book 1 ended
Simi is now bound by her word to Okulun to stay with him in the Land of the Dead
And for a bitter Orisa, I thought he treated her quite fine
Her friend Folasade finds her and informs her that Esu probably wasn't returned to the Supreme God and because of that Chaos erupted because someone was trying to free the anti-gods whom were bound by Esu
While on the surface I vestigating, she sees Kola on a ship and que love struck 🤩
Simi finds Esu still imprisoned, frees him and takes him to Yemoje which makes Olucun angry
So far, the story was well written and intriguing with good pacing
But then everything went downhill
The writer was so consumed in including all the beautiful African historical culture in less than 300 pages that what we left with was info after info with little connection to each other
And I get it, I really do. Representation and drawing from history is important
But not a 300 pages book where you have to
- solve a conflict
- present a romance
- show internal struggle
- have flashbacks
- connect the characters
Somehow all these backgrounds felt lost
But my biggest issue was with
1- the characters themselves
2- how the romance was handled
Simi has a flaw. She is rash and impulsive. I get that! But girl! Haven't you learned from your mistakes! Folasade clearly tells her "don't act rash and wait for Yemoje"
But what does Simi do? She takes the decision herself
And over and over we see her doing this then blaming herself for acting rash
And the way she was obsessing over Kola you'd thing she'd be over the moon staying with him. But ... I'll get to that later
And where is her promise to Olucun! The poor guy helped her over and over as she promised she would plead his case! But she didn't! So selfish
As amatter of fact! She did come out as selfish! Sure she sacrificed herself! But did she though? Everything was about her
And this is my problem with first POV in fantasy
Esu, the villian of book 1, was presented as this cunning smart all powerful orissa. In book 2 he is turned into a 🤡 clown!! An eating machine! I lost all respect I had for him
Where are the twins! The whole of book 1 is about how the world will end if the twins and the rings are not saved and we get one tiny scene of them doing nothing
Kola, where do I begin with this one
Well, first of all, I never believed he loved Simi. There was no indication of his GREAT LOVE
As a matter of fact, he was avoiding her all the time. And we get like one dialogue between them!
She had a better romance chance with Yimka if you asked me
The only character I felt was worth reading was Folasade and she died so that Simi and Kola could be together
What a waste
2- the romance in this book was non existence. All we get is Simi obsessing over Kola
We never feel his side
And the number of times she says "we can never be" started getting on my nerve! We get it
So to see how this was resolved in the end was laughable
Kola is an Orisa!!!! What! That is one blessed family! Yemoje makes him a Mami Wata using Folasade's shell! How convenient
So what does Simi do? She leaves him to go look for her parents 😅😅 because " she has to be herself"
Sorry
This was not handled well
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2023
2023 reads: 18/350
buddy read with lou!
this is the sequel to skin of the sea and follows simi and the repercussions of her trading away her freedom, family, and love in the last book. demons have found their way into the mortal realm and simi finds herself teaming up with a trickster god to put an end to it.
i honestly really enjoyed how this book played out. the plot was really interesting, as were the characters. there were some plot twists as well which kept things interesting!
i think this was a great conclusion to the first book and i loved the ending!
buddy read with lou!
this is the sequel to skin of the sea and follows simi and the repercussions of her trading away her freedom, family, and love in the last book. demons have found their way into the mortal realm and simi finds herself teaming up with a trickster god to put an end to it.
i honestly really enjoyed how this book played out. the plot was really interesting, as were the characters. there were some plot twists as well which kept things interesting!
i think this was a great conclusion to the first book and i loved the ending!
May 23, 2023
DNF: attempted 134 pages.
Boy do I have some notes for this one, cause I was not enjoying it from the outset. I wanted to, because I liked the first book so much, but this has unfortunately soured the entire series for me so far. If there's another book coming out, I will not be continuing.
The writing is repetitive: the reminder of healing wounds is said over and over again within the first 50-70 pages. At least once every page for a while: ok, we get it, move on already! It almost feels like it wasn't really edited, and that's not a good feeling to have with an anticipated read.
Idk I thought the comedy in here from what I got up to was a little juvenile. I didn't find it funny at all, and it was so distracting at the time I put the book down and sighed with a big eye roll. It just felt a little dumb.
Kola's attitude towards Simi was infuriating and felt very childish. I know this is a forbidden relationship, but there comes a point when pining becomes unhealthy and I started feeling that in this particular section. And the way he just blatantly ignores her or only speaks to her to argue or ridicule her, no. I don't subscribe to that mildly abusive attitude.
Also if I have to hear the pet name little fish ever again, I shall scream.
Also I would've liked a bit more description in the foreign objects, foods, titles and such that are spoken throughout the story. It's as if the author expects us to remember what the fuck all of it means, and it took me out of the story because 'enter pretty name of food' but what is it? Describe it! 'Enter title of authority and instantly moves on' what does it mean?? Is it a general? Is it a chief? Found this super annoying this time around.
So yeah, these were all the things that were killing it for me and as a result, I deemed it better to DNF cause I knew I wouldn't finish it.
Boy do I have some notes for this one, cause I was not enjoying it from the outset. I wanted to, because I liked the first book so much, but this has unfortunately soured the entire series for me so far. If there's another book coming out, I will not be continuing.
The writing is repetitive: the reminder of healing wounds is said over and over again within the first 50-70 pages. At least once every page for a while: ok, we get it, move on already! It almost feels like it wasn't really edited, and that's not a good feeling to have with an anticipated read.
Idk I thought the comedy in here from what I got up to was a little juvenile. I didn't find it funny at all, and it was so distracting at the time I put the book down and sighed with a big eye roll. It just felt a little dumb.
Kola's attitude towards Simi was infuriating and felt very childish. I know this is a forbidden relationship, but there comes a point when pining becomes unhealthy and I started feeling that in this particular section. And the way he just blatantly ignores her or only speaks to her to argue or ridicule her, no. I don't subscribe to that mildly abusive attitude.
Also if I have to hear the pet name little fish ever again, I shall scream.
Also I would've liked a bit more description in the foreign objects, foods, titles and such that are spoken throughout the story. It's as if the author expects us to remember what the fuck all of it means, and it took me out of the story because 'enter pretty name of food' but what is it? Describe it! 'Enter title of authority and instantly moves on' what does it mean?? Is it a general? Is it a chief? Found this super annoying this time around.
So yeah, these were all the things that were killing it for me and as a result, I deemed it better to DNF cause I knew I wouldn't finish it.
February 26, 2023
4+ Stars!
"Sacrafice may not save you, but love always will."
This was a fantastic story. Rich in historical accuracy and woven with myth and fantasy. Lots of action and a sweet angsty love story on the side. I loved seeing Simi grow to be everything she was meant to be. Happy reading!
"Sacrafice may not save you, but love always will."
This was a fantastic story. Rich in historical accuracy and woven with myth and fantasy. Lots of action and a sweet angsty love story on the side. I loved seeing Simi grow to be everything she was meant to be. Happy reading!
April 10, 2023
Simi was an awesome character: to the end she was true to her nature. I also liked other chracters but I think the amount of action didn't leave space to develope characters further.
I loved this world and how I got to learn more about African mythology and even some habits.
If you think about this only as a fantasy novel then you can't unnotice how simple and straightforward the plot is. One twist was easy to see coming so that wasn't a real twist.
I was intrigued by mythology, world and I also enjoyed the action. I just hoped I could have felt a bit more.
I loved this world and how I got to learn more about African mythology and even some habits.
If you think about this only as a fantasy novel then you can't unnotice how simple and straightforward the plot is. One twist was easy to see coming so that wasn't a real twist.
I was intrigued by mythology, world and I also enjoyed the action. I just hoped I could have felt a bit more.
October 4, 2023
#1) Skin of the Sea ★★★☆☆
➸ Trigger warnings for .
▷ Representation: Black cast.
Blog • Trigger Warning Database • StoryGraph
October 19, 2022
Soul of the Deep is the sequel to Skin of the Sea and Bowen spins another magical tale of West African mythology with mermaids, danger and the burden of carrying the fate of a world in your hands.
The story takes place above water, a war is about to break out when rumours of demons entering the land and causing destruction spread. The first few chapters take place underwater, Simidele serves Olokun, watching over the Land of the Dead, but misses the world above water. Being kept underwater feels like a prison until a familiar face finds her and everything changes.
Light is shed on lies and Simi quickly realises the deceit that has kept her bound to Olokun. With the threat of the demons, Simi does everything in her power to right the wrongs and restore order.
I enjoyed being back in Simi's world and seeing how she handles new dangers. I loved her in the first book and even more in the second. At times I felt the pace was slow and I hoped for more of the story to take place underwater, but I was surprised by plot twists and certain characters. The writing is detailed and the tension builds after each chapter. The stakes are higher in this story, there are some swoony moments as well as character development, love and loss and a satisfying ending.
For fans of The Gilded Ones, Witches Steeped in Gold and Children of Blood and Bone.
- Mermaids
- Threat to the world
- Deceit/Betrayal
- West African Mythology
- Creatures
- Romance
- YA Fantasy
*Ages: 14+
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Random House for the gifted eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story takes place above water, a war is about to break out when rumours of demons entering the land and causing destruction spread. The first few chapters take place underwater, Simidele serves Olokun, watching over the Land of the Dead, but misses the world above water. Being kept underwater feels like a prison until a familiar face finds her and everything changes.
Light is shed on lies and Simi quickly realises the deceit that has kept her bound to Olokun. With the threat of the demons, Simi does everything in her power to right the wrongs and restore order.
I enjoyed being back in Simi's world and seeing how she handles new dangers. I loved her in the first book and even more in the second. At times I felt the pace was slow and I hoped for more of the story to take place underwater, but I was surprised by plot twists and certain characters. The writing is detailed and the tension builds after each chapter. The stakes are higher in this story, there are some swoony moments as well as character development, love and loss and a satisfying ending.
For fans of The Gilded Ones, Witches Steeped in Gold and Children of Blood and Bone.
- Mermaids
- Threat to the world
- Deceit/Betrayal
- West African Mythology
- Creatures
- Romance
- YA Fantasy
*Ages: 14+
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Random House for the gifted eARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2022
After the first book's somewhat abrupt ending, I was really looking forward to how the sequel would play out. Simi has gone to the deepest part of the ocean to help Olokun bury the bodies of those lost at sea. I hoped there might be something between these two, but we quickly see Simi is still pining for Kola. I'm not a big fan of that romance, maybe because it developed so quickly in the first book, and was hoping it would be over after Simi made her decision.
I enjoyed the mythology in this, the addition of the ajogun and the Mokele-mbembe were cool even if they weren't explored as much as I'd like. There's also the sisterhood of the Mami Wata that I adore. It was nice that we saw Simi and Folasade's friendship and got another perspective on the duties of releasing souls to the afterlife.
I think my main disappointment was that so much of the first book was made irrelevant in this one. Simi makes a choice to give up Kola and life on land, but that doesn't last. Some people we thought were lost came back, and Esu's capture was basically pointless. You could almost just start with this book and wouldn't miss much story.
I am still hoping for a third book because a couple things are not resolved at all, mainly Olokun's story. I think a new point of view would be nice and we could leave Simi and Kola to their own devices.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thank you to Random House Books for Young Readers and NetGalley for the copy.
I enjoyed the mythology in this, the addition of the ajogun and the Mokele-mbembe were cool even if they weren't explored as much as I'd like. There's also the sisterhood of the Mami Wata that I adore. It was nice that we saw Simi and Folasade's friendship and got another perspective on the duties of releasing souls to the afterlife.
I think my main disappointment was that so much of the first book was made irrelevant in this one. Simi makes a choice to give up Kola and life on land, but that doesn't last. Some people we thought were lost came back, and Esu's capture was basically pointless. You could almost just start with this book and wouldn't miss much story.
I am still hoping for a third book because a couple things are not resolved at all, mainly Olokun's story. I think a new point of view would be nice and we could leave Simi and Kola to their own devices.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thank you to Random House Books for Young Readers and NetGalley for the copy.
August 15, 2023
SOUL OF THE DEEP by Natasha Bowen is a captivating second installment in the Skin of the Sea series. Simidele's sacrifice to protect her loved ones leads her to serve a new god, watching over the Land of the Dead in the ocean's depths. However, when demons resurface, she must join forces with a cunning god to prevent their havoc on the human realm. The novel artfully explores the perspective of Simidele, blending the human and fantastical worlds with emotional depth. It portrays awe, beauty, grief, and empowerment, particularly for black women. The rich mythology, with its creatures, abilities, and battles, keeps the story fast-paced and engrossing, even with occasional complexity. The book's conclusion delivers a satisfying resolution while leaving room for further adventures in Simidele's journey. This book is an enthralling and empowering read that resonates with its themes of sacrifice, redemption, and self-discovery.
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February 9, 2025
Enjoyed this one a lot more than the second one
February 22, 2024
This is another breathtaking installment of Simidele's story, filled with rich African myth, magic, action, and suspense that I just can't get enough of!
I loved this story and I'm really sad there isn't a third book but this one leaves off with the potential for the author to add one if she chooses, so I will remain hopeful.
This book picks up six months after Skin of the Sea ends. Simi is in the realm of the dead with Oloku, helping him with his task of burying the bodies who are cast into the sea.
When one of her fellow mami wata warns her of unfathomable turmoil in the world above, Simi learns that the anti-gods, embodiments of war, disease, famine, and all things destruction, are close to being released. And what's more, Eshu is the only Orisha who can stop them.
I really enjoyed this sequel. I love the author's beautiful and descriptive language. The way the words flow I can picture everything so perfectly in my mind. I really hope there is a third book.
I love how she reveals even more African mythology and folklore stories. Mythology what is my favorite thing to read!
I do have 2 complaints. One is that I feel like Eshu got nerfed. The whole book 1 he was portrayed as a terrifying and powerful Orisha that the other orishas were afraid of crossing. But here he just reads like a normal bloke who is really skilled at swordplay. Idk, it was a little underwhelming.
My other complaint is that they never thought about using the rings to contact Olodumari and putting and end to the whole thing. They ask Eshu if he can intercede to Olodumari for help, but he says it takes weeks to set something up and they only have 2 days before the anti-gods emerge. But...what about the rings????
I get that the rings are "Tolkien's eagles." HOWEVER, given how important they are to book 1 and the power they hold, I was a little baffled why they were never even addressed. I think a reason could have easily been woven in why this wasnt an option, but it felt more like the author wanted to just pretend they didn't exist at all in this story. They're not mentioned a single time.
All in all, I highly recommend this book. The narrator did a beautiful job bringing this story to life and it's well worth your time.
I loved this story and I'm really sad there isn't a third book but this one leaves off with the potential for the author to add one if she chooses, so I will remain hopeful.
This book picks up six months after Skin of the Sea ends. Simi is in the realm of the dead with Oloku, helping him with his task of burying the bodies who are cast into the sea.
When one of her fellow mami wata warns her of unfathomable turmoil in the world above, Simi learns that the anti-gods, embodiments of war, disease, famine, and all things destruction, are close to being released. And what's more, Eshu is the only Orisha who can stop them.
I really enjoyed this sequel. I love the author's beautiful and descriptive language. The way the words flow I can picture everything so perfectly in my mind. I really hope there is a third book.
I love how she reveals even more African mythology and folklore stories. Mythology what is my favorite thing to read!
I do have 2 complaints. One is that I feel like Eshu got nerfed. The whole book 1 he was portrayed as a terrifying and powerful Orisha that the other orishas were afraid of crossing. But here he just reads like a normal bloke who is really skilled at swordplay. Idk, it was a little underwhelming.
My other complaint is that they never thought about using the rings to contact Olodumari and putting and end to the whole thing. They ask Eshu if he can intercede to Olodumari for help, but he says it takes weeks to set something up and they only have 2 days before the anti-gods emerge. But...what about the rings????
I get that the rings are "Tolkien's eagles." HOWEVER, given how important they are to book 1 and the power they hold, I was a little baffled why they were never even addressed. I think a reason could have easily been woven in why this wasnt an option, but it felt more like the author wanted to just pretend they didn't exist at all in this story. They're not mentioned a single time.
All in all, I highly recommend this book. The narrator did a beautiful job bringing this story to life and it's well worth your time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2023
A great finale to a wonderful duology, SOUL OF THE DEEP picks up shortly where its predecessor left off and completes Simi's journey to find and fight for her friends, even if it means allying with an enemy and angering the gods.
Simi remains a great, empathetic character. She cares deeply for her friends and is always willing to sacrifice her happiness. She endures quite a bit in her journey to protect those she loves, which was inspiring to see. It was equally as wonderful to see many familiar characters return as well as new ones be introduced.
The story was packed with adventure, action, emotional moments, and plenty of world building inspired by mythology and culture. I felt that the plot moved at a good pace, though I don't feel entirely sold on the antagonist. It felt like that could have been fleshed out more for greater impact at the ending.
Despite the ending being a little bit rushed, I deeply enjoyed this duology. It's a perfect series for anyone who is looking for a fresh, culturally inspired take on The Little Mermaid, for anyone who likes empathetic heroines, and is looking for a fresh voice in YA fantasy. Check it out!
Simi remains a great, empathetic character. She cares deeply for her friends and is always willing to sacrifice her happiness. She endures quite a bit in her journey to protect those she loves, which was inspiring to see. It was equally as wonderful to see many familiar characters return as well as new ones be introduced.
The story was packed with adventure, action, emotional moments, and plenty of world building inspired by mythology and culture. I felt that the plot moved at a good pace, though I don't feel entirely sold on the antagonist. It felt like that could have been fleshed out more for greater impact at the ending.
Despite the ending being a little bit rushed, I deeply enjoyed this duology. It's a perfect series for anyone who is looking for a fresh, culturally inspired take on The Little Mermaid, for anyone who likes empathetic heroines, and is looking for a fresh voice in YA fantasy. Check it out!
March 24, 2023
4.5 rounded up
I loved Skin of the Sea, and this was a fantastic continuation to that story. We get to see some more mythical creatures and the return of many of the characters from the first story. Simi is tasked with saving the world again, and the way she saved everyone at the end of the first story is actually a catalyst to why she needs to save everyone this time.
I liked seeing Simi’s relationships develop even more, mainly her platonic relationships since the romance aspect was already plainly established coming in.
Some of the plot was predictable, but that’s okay and didn’t take away from the story. I wasn’t here to be shocked by a crazy plot twist.
I loved Skin of the Sea, and this was a fantastic continuation to that story. We get to see some more mythical creatures and the return of many of the characters from the first story. Simi is tasked with saving the world again, and the way she saved everyone at the end of the first story is actually a catalyst to why she needs to save everyone this time.
I liked seeing Simi’s relationships develop even more, mainly her platonic relationships since the romance aspect was already plainly established coming in.
Some of the plot was predictable, but that’s okay and didn’t take away from the story. I wasn’t here to be shocked by a crazy plot twist.
February 17, 2025
as good as the first
After Skin of the Deep, wasn’t sure if the sequel would be as good, as sequels often disappoint. I’m glad to have been wrong. It was fun and full of action from start to finish and offers the possibility of a trilogy. Hope so!
After Skin of the Deep, wasn’t sure if the sequel would be as good, as sequels often disappoint. I’m glad to have been wrong. It was fun and full of action from start to finish and offers the possibility of a trilogy. Hope so!
October 13, 2022
I simply adored this. Very strong sequel in my opinion and the audiobook made it 10x better.
December 4, 2022
I was a little disappointed by this one. The pacing wasn’t all there for me and I felt underwhelmed at times.
July 21, 2024
DNF. Ended up skimming and reading the last chapter. The first book was so good. This one is just monotonous and mind numbing.
December 25, 2025
These books are amazing. The story will keep you engaged and is so exciting. I am hoping that this will not be the end of our adventures with Simi. Thank you Natasha Bowen for writing such amazing stories that transcend time.
Want to read
January 29, 2024Review for book 1: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
More to come.
More to come.
September 11, 2022
First, I wanted to thank Netgalley, the publishing house and most importantly Natasha Bowen for granting the privilege of reading advance copy of Soul Deep. I will always only give my honest opinion.
I read Skin of The Sea last month and knew I needed the follow up book. It took me a little while to read it as life happens and slows us down. I'll start with what I liked.
1. No profanity and excessive sex scenes, as a matter of fact there were no sex scenes period and in a world where everything and everyone no matter the age are engrossed in sexual activities this was welcomed with immense joy.
2. As a black Caribbean woman I admit I do not know much about the history or Africa where it pertains to there spirituality. While I have no idea if all of these are or once we're beliefs of the African people I quite liked learning of them.
3. The foods (plantains 😋). That's all on that lol.
4. The story was female driven.
5. Simidele is always do what she believes is right for all and not just the few. This shows a strength in her that I wish we all had at her age and even now that we're older and wiser.
Now for the parts that I didn't necessarily dislike but I felt were left somewhat unanswered or enough wasn't shared about.
1. I understand that Simidele is young and because of this while she make decisions she believes is best for the situation at hand she hasn't learned mich from the first book. Every experience we encounter I'm life teaches us something. Whether it is about our selves or those around us, we are meant to learn and grow. In this I find Simidele lacking to the point where she almost, almost annoyed me. She ignores blatant warnings in her gut and this causes further damage at times. Simidele must at some point understand that your gut/intuition or mind are very strong and the more we listen to it and heed it, the stronger it gets. It alerts us to danger and that keeps us alive. Yet time and again, Simidele gets these warnings and chooses to 'ignore them or push them aside'.
2. She has a big heart and because of this she doesn't see what's right in front of her, this goes back to #1.
3. At times I felt as if this series could have more magic similar to bolts shooting out of someone's hands etc but then it'll make it like so many other stories. However, if the Mami Wata are made of the Orisha Yemoja wouldn't it stand to reason that she can feel them sense them? Simidele can mentally command the fishes around her but can't communicate with her creator?
4. The orishas appearances can and do differ but still seems inconsistent to me. Sanjon is presented in such a way that you picture him tall and powerful but Esu and Yemobja seem almost human size? These are powerful beings, that not being represented in their appearance seems like and oversight to me.
5. I'd have loved more of a back story on all the main characters involved. We got glimpses of Simidele capture but not of Adekola's. We got a snippet of who Yinka truly is but not Bem. Even Yemobja and Esu have pasts and hope one day that we can see those a bit more.
6. I need more of what Oko looks like. Maybe I missed it but I don't think I did.
7. Someone from Simidele pasts is now in her present and you a side of her that I enjoyed. The reminiscing. However, she knows what Simi is and it felt disjointed from the history of Simi's making. In book one we see where she was hesitant to show her true form to the others but now her business is just on the street to this person from her past and told by Kola? He didn't even want to say what his brother and sister are in book one but found it acceptable to share this about Simi?
My dislikes may out number the likes but this is not to be used as a deterrent for reading this book. In fact it I'd encourage all to still read it because this story is at its core lure of heart and stands on strength. It maybe wishful thinking on my part but I see this as a nod to the generation after that they be aware of the strength they have within them and knowing that our world would be left in good hands.. I give this a solid 3.9
I read Skin of The Sea last month and knew I needed the follow up book. It took me a little while to read it as life happens and slows us down. I'll start with what I liked.
1. No profanity and excessive sex scenes, as a matter of fact there were no sex scenes period and in a world where everything and everyone no matter the age are engrossed in sexual activities this was welcomed with immense joy.
2. As a black Caribbean woman I admit I do not know much about the history or Africa where it pertains to there spirituality. While I have no idea if all of these are or once we're beliefs of the African people I quite liked learning of them.
3. The foods (plantains 😋). That's all on that lol.
4. The story was female driven.
5. Simidele is always do what she believes is right for all and not just the few. This shows a strength in her that I wish we all had at her age and even now that we're older and wiser.
Now for the parts that I didn't necessarily dislike but I felt were left somewhat unanswered or enough wasn't shared about.
1. I understand that Simidele is young and because of this while she make decisions she believes is best for the situation at hand she hasn't learned mich from the first book. Every experience we encounter I'm life teaches us something. Whether it is about our selves or those around us, we are meant to learn and grow. In this I find Simidele lacking to the point where she almost, almost annoyed me. She ignores blatant warnings in her gut and this causes further damage at times. Simidele must at some point understand that your gut/intuition or mind are very strong and the more we listen to it and heed it, the stronger it gets. It alerts us to danger and that keeps us alive. Yet time and again, Simidele gets these warnings and chooses to 'ignore them or push them aside'.
2. She has a big heart and because of this she doesn't see what's right in front of her, this goes back to #1.
3. At times I felt as if this series could have more magic similar to bolts shooting out of someone's hands etc but then it'll make it like so many other stories. However, if the Mami Wata are made of the Orisha Yemoja wouldn't it stand to reason that she can feel them sense them? Simidele can mentally command the fishes around her but can't communicate with her creator?
4. The orishas appearances can and do differ but still seems inconsistent to me. Sanjon is presented in such a way that you picture him tall and powerful but Esu and Yemobja seem almost human size? These are powerful beings, that not being represented in their appearance seems like and oversight to me.
5. I'd have loved more of a back story on all the main characters involved. We got glimpses of Simidele capture but not of Adekola's. We got a snippet of who Yinka truly is but not Bem. Even Yemobja and Esu have pasts and hope one day that we can see those a bit more.
6. I need more of what Oko looks like. Maybe I missed it but I don't think I did.
7. Someone from Simidele pasts is now in her present and you a side of her that I enjoyed. The reminiscing. However, she knows what Simi is and it felt disjointed from the history of Simi's making. In book one we see where she was hesitant to show her true form to the others but now her business is just on the street to this person from her past and told by Kola? He didn't even want to say what his brother and sister are in book one but found it acceptable to share this about Simi?
My dislikes may out number the likes but this is not to be used as a deterrent for reading this book. In fact it I'd encourage all to still read it because this story is at its core lure of heart and stands on strength. It maybe wishful thinking on my part but I see this as a nod to the generation after that they be aware of the strength they have within them and knowing that our world would be left in good hands.. I give this a solid 3.9
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