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Forbidden Sea #1
Forbidden Sea
A mermaid haunts Adrianne's dreams . . . is she coming to warn her, save her, or drag her down into the depths of the briny sea forever?
When Adrianne comes face-to-face with the mermaid of Windwaithe Island, of whom she has heard terrible stories all her life, she is convinced the mermaid means to take her younger sister. Adrianne, fierce-willed and courageous, is determined to protect her sister from the mermaid, and her family from starvation. However, the mermaid continues to haunt Adrianne in her dreams and with her song.
When Adrianne comes face-to-face with the mermaid of Windwaithe Island, of whom she has heard terrible stories all her life, she is convinced the mermaid means to take her younger sister. Adrianne, fierce-willed and courageous, is determined to protect her sister from the mermaid, and her family from starvation. However, the mermaid continues to haunt Adrianne in her dreams and with her song.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published July 1, 2010
41 people are currently reading
6602 people want to read
About the author
Sheila A. Nielson
5 books176 followersSheila Nielson was terrified of the dark as a child. Her very overactive imagination made the monsters she imagined hiding under her bed seem all too real. Then one day her mother suggested that she use her imagination to think up stories rather than monsters every night. There was no turning back after that. Now Ms. Nielson creates stories to scare her readers rather than herself! She already has two stories published—Forbidden Sea and it's sequel, Shadow in the Sea. She graduated from college with a BFA in illustration and has worked as a children's librarian for over twenty-four years.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 402 reviews
February 23, 2020
Meh, I wouldn't really say this book is about mermaids. There's only a couple scenes in this book that involve the ocean or mermaids. But the story was relatively okay even though I felt like I had read it before in other books. I'd recommend it for someone who's looking for a nice quick read.
August 7, 2010
It's kind of a cross between Cinderella and The Little Mermaid - or, to be more precise, one of those fairytales dealing with a fisherman lured into the sea by a terrifyingly beautiful sea creature. Rather sad, but featuring a strong heroine and concluding on a satisfying note.
3.5 stars.
Later clarification on the sadness part:
The writing is good. I just do not feel well, when I am constantly pitying an almost angelic heroine - and screaming in frustration for her the rest of the time.
Adrianne's father had been stable master. He died and his wife fell into depression, leaving her 12-year-old daughter to manage the household including their servants. Adrianne did not know how to proceed and ran into debts by continuing to pay everyone instead of sacking them and selling the house. She got blamed for losing her family's house and fortune later by her mean aunt. Her mother never stood up for her daughter after she recovered. The mother and the aunt work as seamstresses and Adrianne works her ass of as a cow-shed-muckeress. The aunt sees to it, that good-for-nothing Adrianne does not get new shoes or dresses and shortens her food rations to punish her for her supposed nightly pantry-raids - which are in fact done by the pampered nine year old sister Cecily, who is the aunts favorite and who never admits she is to blame. Cecily's every whim has to be accommodated. Additionally Adrianne is ridiculed and gets threatened by the village boys and her old rival, pretty Cora Lynn, who tries to gain the affections of Adrianne's best childhood-friend Denn, whom Adrianne secretly loves. On top of all that Adrianne gets marked by a mermaid as her prey, when she saves her sister, who went to the shore to have a good sulk (Naturally mother and aunt sit at home wringing their hands as Adrianne braves the storm and the waves and are reluctant to pay the doctor, when Adrianne falls into a short coma.)
You get the drift? Cinderella comes in many shapes.
3.5 stars.
Later clarification on the sadness part:
The writing is good. I just do not feel well, when I am constantly pitying an almost angelic heroine - and screaming in frustration for her the rest of the time.
Adrianne's father had been stable master. He died and his wife fell into depression, leaving her 12-year-old daughter to manage the household including their servants. Adrianne did not know how to proceed and ran into debts by continuing to pay everyone instead of sacking them and selling the house. She got blamed for losing her family's house and fortune later by her mean aunt. Her mother never stood up for her daughter after she recovered. The mother and the aunt work as seamstresses and Adrianne works her ass of as a cow-shed-muckeress. The aunt sees to it, that good-for-nothing Adrianne does not get new shoes or dresses and shortens her food rations to punish her for her supposed nightly pantry-raids - which are in fact done by the pampered nine year old sister Cecily, who is the aunts favorite and who never admits she is to blame. Cecily's every whim has to be accommodated. Additionally Adrianne is ridiculed and gets threatened by the village boys and her old rival, pretty Cora Lynn, who tries to gain the affections of Adrianne's best childhood-friend Denn, whom Adrianne secretly loves. On top of all that Adrianne gets marked by a mermaid as her prey, when she saves her sister, who went to the shore to have a good sulk (Naturally mother and aunt sit at home wringing their hands as Adrianne braves the storm and the waves and are reluctant to pay the doctor, when Adrianne falls into a short coma.)
You get the drift? Cinderella comes in many shapes.
June 19, 2025
Listen, was this worth the almost-10 year wait? Yes. Because I will wait whatever length of time for mermaids. But, was it really that good? No, not really. It was fine. I was a little disappointed by the ending.
A lot of the book was Adrianne being a martyr and people being shitty to her. It was very Cinderella-esque. That whole trope gets old for me really fast.
Overall, I'm glad I finally got to read it and assuage my curiosity.
Pre-read *⁀➷
I. LOVE. MERMAIDS.
This is the oldest book on my TBR, it's been on there since like 2016. I couldn't find this book anywhere for the longest time (because it came out 15 years ago), but a couple months ago I was thrifting and just HAPPENED to spot a HARDCOVER copy! It was FATE.
A lot of the book was Adrianne being a martyr and people being shitty to her. It was very Cinderella-esque. That whole trope gets old for me really fast.
Overall, I'm glad I finally got to read it and assuage my curiosity.
Pre-read *⁀➷
I. LOVE. MERMAIDS.
This is the oldest book on my TBR, it's been on there since like 2016. I couldn't find this book anywhere for the longest time (because it came out 15 years ago), but a couple months ago I was thrifting and just HAPPENED to spot a HARDCOVER copy! It was FATE.
August 20, 2010
I really liked Adrianne. I guess it was kind of important that she be the type of character that she was--selfless and hardworking--but it's still refreshing, especially since she was only fourteen. I come across so many whiny, self-centered characters in YA fiction, and though I can appreciate them despite their faults, it's nice to have one whom I can like and sympathize with at the same time. Not to say that Adrianne's faultless; she is way too hard on herself and allows herself to be undermined by the many less pleasant characters on the island. It takes a mermaid ambassador/matchmaker (of sorts) for her to finally see the light. She underestimates her value, and I felt she really did deserve the life offered her--unlike the people who have spent all this time putting her down. Nonetheless, I wasn't surprised by her choice at the end (in a satisfying this-is-how-it's-supposed-to-be way) because it fit her character. While none of the other characters really compared to Adrianne, several had redeeming qualities, or at least some justification for their actions. This story caught my attention from the start and kept me captivated.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2012
What an amazing book! Sheila A. Nielson has woven a beautifully imagined tale of magic and mermaids that is imaginative and wonderfully written. I read this in one evening and found it absolutely impossible to put down. I loved the central character Adrianne who is compassionate and empathetic and wholly unselfish. After the death of her father, she is left to look after her younger sister and mother. She is responsible for ensuring that they have food on the table, although there is little of that to go around. She also has to deal with her unfeeling Aunt who favours Adrianne's younger sister. The only good thing she has in her life, is local boy Denn, who she has grown to love, even though she fears he will never return her feelings. When she encounters the Windwaithe Island mermaid, her life changes in unexpected ways.
This story is just achingly gorgeous. Sheila A. Nielson says that she was inspired by Hans Christian Anderson's 'The Little Mermaid' but in 'The Forbidden Sea' she's made the mermaid genre all her own. There are some twists and turns in the latter part of the book which fairly skips along and a perfect ending. I re-read the last few pages a couple of times over because I couldn't bear for the story to have finished. I loved it! I would adore a follow-up book because I connected so strongly with the characters that I want to know what happens to them next.
This is Nielson's debut novel and I shall certainly be looking out for more from her!
This story is just achingly gorgeous. Sheila A. Nielson says that she was inspired by Hans Christian Anderson's 'The Little Mermaid' but in 'The Forbidden Sea' she's made the mermaid genre all her own. There are some twists and turns in the latter part of the book which fairly skips along and a perfect ending. I re-read the last few pages a couple of times over because I couldn't bear for the story to have finished. I loved it! I would adore a follow-up book because I connected so strongly with the characters that I want to know what happens to them next.
This is Nielson's debut novel and I shall certainly be looking out for more from her!
January 29, 2010
This is a warm human story with enough suspense to grab you and hold you from the first page. The characters were so real to me, I couldn't put it down. There is no needless explanations in the beginning or long episodes of backtracking in time. The story stays in the moment and so does the reader. Children and adults will both love this book. I can't wait for the sequel.
November 28, 2019
4.5🌟 Love it to the max, except there were certain parts where I think could be cut of to be a bit shorter. Anyway, it's a great experience. 😚
July 13, 2010
After the first nail-biting chapter, I knew this was not going to be one of those books I would have to feign praise for. The writing is beautiful, original and I instantly related to the main character--Adrianne.
When Adrianne's father is killed in a riding accident, her mother spends months listless on her bed, leaving Adrianne to care for the household. At 12 years old, she was forced into early adulthood when the money ran out and she and her mother and sister became destitute. Once pretty, admired and spoiled, 14-year old Adrianne now barely survives on two meals a day while working farm chores that make her constantly smell and sweat. Her mother takes in mending from the town while her 9-year old sister does nothing. Their Auntie Minna (her father's sister) lives with them, constantly harping on Adrianne for the loss of her father and their money.
Adrianne's one true friend, Denn, whom she has loved since childhood, pines away after the spoiled, vacuous Cora Lynn. Adrianne herself is tortured by the local bullies for her short hair (she sold her long, beautiful hair to a wig salesman to bring in money for her family) and dirty appearance.
While saving her sister Cecily from drowning, a mermaid marks Adrianne and attempts to pull her into the sea. When the attempt fails, the mermaid continues to call to Adrianne in dreams, in her mind and through her mark.
At this point, the book reminded me very much of Harry Potter. At some points in the series by JK Rowling, I wondered how it could get any worse for Harry. Adrianne's dismal plight seemed similar.
Beautiful and imaginative, I wished I could have read more about the world of the mermaids. I'm madly jealous Sheila! Amazing job!
When Adrianne's father is killed in a riding accident, her mother spends months listless on her bed, leaving Adrianne to care for the household. At 12 years old, she was forced into early adulthood when the money ran out and she and her mother and sister became destitute. Once pretty, admired and spoiled, 14-year old Adrianne now barely survives on two meals a day while working farm chores that make her constantly smell and sweat. Her mother takes in mending from the town while her 9-year old sister does nothing. Their Auntie Minna (her father's sister) lives with them, constantly harping on Adrianne for the loss of her father and their money.
Adrianne's one true friend, Denn, whom she has loved since childhood, pines away after the spoiled, vacuous Cora Lynn. Adrianne herself is tortured by the local bullies for her short hair (she sold her long, beautiful hair to a wig salesman to bring in money for her family) and dirty appearance.
While saving her sister Cecily from drowning, a mermaid marks Adrianne and attempts to pull her into the sea. When the attempt fails, the mermaid continues to call to Adrianne in dreams, in her mind and through her mark.
At this point, the book reminded me very much of Harry Potter. At some points in the series by JK Rowling, I wondered how it could get any worse for Harry. Adrianne's dismal plight seemed similar.
Beautiful and imaginative, I wished I could have read more about the world of the mermaids. I'm madly jealous Sheila! Amazing job!
November 24, 2012
Reviewed by Kira M for TeensReadToo.com
When Adrienne's little sister, Cecily, goes missing, she goes down by the beach and finds her sister unconscious on a rock. While there, she sees a legendary mermaid, who has been known to pull humans into the sea. When the mermaid attempts to grab them, Adrienne and Cecily barely escape.
Adrienne, however, is scratched and is unconscious for three days. When she awakes, the townsfolk avoid her and distrust her and she begins having dreams where the mermaid is calling to her. When Adrienne visits a fortune teller, she is told that the mark is a curse from her attacker and has marked her for death.
In an attempt to change her fate, Adrienne enlists the help of her friend, Denn, to protect her. Her efforts soon grow tiresome, though, and she revisits the spot where she was attacked. There, the mermaid tells her that she has been chosen to be the wife of the sea prince. She can have a life in which she will know acceptance and happiness.
But Adrienne is still reluctant to go with the mermaid. Her family depends on her for financial support, and she thinks she's starting to have feeling for Denn. Will Adrienne go with the mermaid? What about what the fortune teller said? Who is telling the truth?
A great book filled with fantasy, horror, love, and friendship. The characters are well-developed, and the plot moves quickly and is well-done. Readers who like non-traditional fairy tales, fantasy, adventure, paranormal fiction, and mystery will enjoy FORBIDDEN SEA.
When Adrienne's little sister, Cecily, goes missing, she goes down by the beach and finds her sister unconscious on a rock. While there, she sees a legendary mermaid, who has been known to pull humans into the sea. When the mermaid attempts to grab them, Adrienne and Cecily barely escape.
Adrienne, however, is scratched and is unconscious for three days. When she awakes, the townsfolk avoid her and distrust her and she begins having dreams where the mermaid is calling to her. When Adrienne visits a fortune teller, she is told that the mark is a curse from her attacker and has marked her for death.
In an attempt to change her fate, Adrienne enlists the help of her friend, Denn, to protect her. Her efforts soon grow tiresome, though, and she revisits the spot where she was attacked. There, the mermaid tells her that she has been chosen to be the wife of the sea prince. She can have a life in which she will know acceptance and happiness.
But Adrienne is still reluctant to go with the mermaid. Her family depends on her for financial support, and she thinks she's starting to have feeling for Denn. Will Adrienne go with the mermaid? What about what the fortune teller said? Who is telling the truth?
A great book filled with fantasy, horror, love, and friendship. The characters are well-developed, and the plot moves quickly and is well-done. Readers who like non-traditional fairy tales, fantasy, adventure, paranormal fiction, and mystery will enjoy FORBIDDEN SEA.
August 9, 2019
I am not expecting this novel to turn out so damn good. I had plenty of precious times crying over the beautiful words, the insight of Adrianne (our main protagonist). This book opened a new eye on me towards appreciating life. It changed me in a way I couldn’t describe
November 7, 2009
Loved this book, it is a must read. Grabs your attention on the first page and you can't put it down.Sheila knows what a great book is all about and knows how to write them. She knows what the young readers like and so she put her soul and heart out there to grab there attention in a way a lot of writers don't know how to do. You will love this book and can't wait for more of hers to come out. I would recommend this book for all ages. Great job Sheila! Love ya tons!
November 10, 2023
The book wasn’t really about mermaids but more about the protagonist’s struggles in life. Dealing with the loss of her father, living with a toxic aunt, feeling unappreciated etc. It’s still a pretty enjoyable read and the descriptions of the underwater world of the merfolks were stunning. 4 STARS ⭐️
August 14, 2018
great book!
July 17, 2010
Since her father died in an accident two years ago, fourteen-year-old Adrianne Keynnman and her family have struggled to survive. They once lived a comfortable life on Windwaithe Island, but now they live in a small cottage and Adrianne must work hard to help provide for her mother, cruel aunt, and beloved younger sister, Cecily. One night during a storm, Cecily runs away from home, and when rescuing her, Adrianne encounters a mermaid who tries to drag them down into the sea. Adrianne is able to rescue her sister, but continues to be haunted by the events of that night.
From that day on, Adrianne’s life only becomes more difficult. She must continue to work hard so that her family can survive, and endure the constant teasing of the local bullies, who think she is an easy target now that she is so poor. Only her friend Denn Young seems to support her, but her feelings of friendship for him are growing into something more, though she doubts he returns her feelings, since he seems to admire Cora Lynn, a beautiful girl who is spoiled and selfish. And now she must also struggle with her fears of the mermaid and the superstitious people of her island. As the mermaid continues to try and lure Adrianne into the sea, she realizes the mermaid wanted her, not Cecily.
I really enjoyed reading Forbidden Sea, the story was very different from anything I read before. It is an original story with the feel of an old-fashioned fairy tale. Adrianne is a strong and admirable heroine, she is determined and brave and sacrifices so much to help her family. Despite the many difficulties she faces, she remains strong and determined. I would recommend this book to both middle grade and young adult readers who enjoy fantasy and fairy tales, there is nothing inappropriate for younger readers but I think the story could appeal to some older readers as well. This is the author Sheila Nielson's first book and I would love to read more by her in the future!
From that day on, Adrianne’s life only becomes more difficult. She must continue to work hard so that her family can survive, and endure the constant teasing of the local bullies, who think she is an easy target now that she is so poor. Only her friend Denn Young seems to support her, but her feelings of friendship for him are growing into something more, though she doubts he returns her feelings, since he seems to admire Cora Lynn, a beautiful girl who is spoiled and selfish. And now she must also struggle with her fears of the mermaid and the superstitious people of her island. As the mermaid continues to try and lure Adrianne into the sea, she realizes the mermaid wanted her, not Cecily.
I really enjoyed reading Forbidden Sea, the story was very different from anything I read before. It is an original story with the feel of an old-fashioned fairy tale. Adrianne is a strong and admirable heroine, she is determined and brave and sacrifices so much to help her family. Despite the many difficulties she faces, she remains strong and determined. I would recommend this book to both middle grade and young adult readers who enjoy fantasy and fairy tales, there is nothing inappropriate for younger readers but I think the story could appeal to some older readers as well. This is the author Sheila Nielson's first book and I would love to read more by her in the future!
April 29, 2010
My thoughts...One of the biggest things I look for when reading a book is a strong heroine. Adrianne, the young girl from The Forbidden Sea is just that. She is very strong willed, smart, determined, and very devoted to her family. I instantly felt sympathetic for this girl who lost her father in a tragic accident. She finds herself living in poverty with her mother, sister, and an aunt that treats her very disdainfully. She has an inner strength that helps her deal with some very difficult people and situations. The other characters helped build the story, but they were not as memorable as Adrianne.
The plot of The Forbidden Sea moved at a steady pace. The book takes place in an earlier time and the author did a good job of describing the lifestyle of the villagers. I could imagine the fear from a time when legends seemed alive in memories and stories. The book really got vivid toward the ending. The story got very suspenseful and I was very unsure how it would end.
Overall, I really enjoyed the writing style and the originality of the book. This is a safe title for younger readers and I would recommend it to fans of YA literature.
The plot of The Forbidden Sea moved at a steady pace. The book takes place in an earlier time and the author did a good job of describing the lifestyle of the villagers. I could imagine the fear from a time when legends seemed alive in memories and stories. The book really got vivid toward the ending. The story got very suspenseful and I was very unsure how it would end.
Overall, I really enjoyed the writing style and the originality of the book. This is a safe title for younger readers and I would recommend it to fans of YA literature.
February 22, 2011
I really enjoyed reading this book. One of the biggest reasons I liked this book is even though the girl is more of a tomboy, there is a very good reason behind it instead of just the author wanting to write a period piece but not wanting to write true characters from that period.
April 22, 2011
So for once I'm actually hoping this turns into a series.
May 2, 2013
"Men are fools. They see only with their eyes, and are blinded to the truest treasures that stand before them dressed in the ordinary dust and sweat of hard life... The men and women of this island should beware, for they are pitiful creatures indeed when true greatness can be hidden from them by mere dirt and rags."
"The whale let out a haunting cry that reverberated through my whole being. The song was so beautiful, I ached inside with its infinite sadness. Mourning for dreams which had never come true, for courage that went unsung, and for the spark of hope that refused to die --- even in the darkness of a world that tried to smother it. The song was mine. The whale keened my pain and sorrow for the entire ocean to hear."
Sheila Nielson is a beautiful writer!! I was immediately struck by the flowing, descriptive language, so well-crafted that one soars through the story effortlessly. Like an island native who accompanies you on a tour, Nielson paints a vivid, believable picture of the island life of Adrianne Keynnman, a fourteen-year-old girl who carries the weight of the world on her shoulders. In an unspecified century past, Adrianne has supported her small family almost single-handedly, ever since her father died two years previously. Painfully poor, this scrappy and noble girl lives a bleak life, a skin-and-bones shadow of her former happy self. But she labors on, hoping that things will get better.
One night, sweet younger sister Cecily is caught in a terrible storm. After hours of searching Adri finds her in the company of a captivating mermaid. In the struggle to free her sister from this frightening and beautiful creature, the mermaid grasps Adri's right wrist in a powerful grip, and embeds it with a magical and painful mark that serves as a conduit of communication between the two. When the local townsfolk become aware of the mermaid's mark, Adrianne is shunned by all but her best friend Denn, whom she loves, but without hope of his returning it. As the mermaid begins to call to her from the sea, it becomes increasingly difficult for Adrianne to ignore, until finally she determines that she must face the creature, even if it means death.
In a surprising turn of events, the mermaid doesn't wish to harm her, but rather to offer her a different life, apart from her loved ones and all of the trials that attend her present situation. The beauty and magic of the world underseas is overwhelming and almost impossible to resist. She is certain that very few islanders would even miss her, if she disappeared. So the anxiety mounts as she contemplates the choices in front of her. A perfectly spell-binding tale, with complex, believable characters in a lush, fantastical setting. Five stars! And this is just her first book! Can't wait to see more from this author.
"The whale let out a haunting cry that reverberated through my whole being. The song was so beautiful, I ached inside with its infinite sadness. Mourning for dreams which had never come true, for courage that went unsung, and for the spark of hope that refused to die --- even in the darkness of a world that tried to smother it. The song was mine. The whale keened my pain and sorrow for the entire ocean to hear."
Sheila Nielson is a beautiful writer!! I was immediately struck by the flowing, descriptive language, so well-crafted that one soars through the story effortlessly. Like an island native who accompanies you on a tour, Nielson paints a vivid, believable picture of the island life of Adrianne Keynnman, a fourteen-year-old girl who carries the weight of the world on her shoulders. In an unspecified century past, Adrianne has supported her small family almost single-handedly, ever since her father died two years previously. Painfully poor, this scrappy and noble girl lives a bleak life, a skin-and-bones shadow of her former happy self. But she labors on, hoping that things will get better.
One night, sweet younger sister Cecily is caught in a terrible storm. After hours of searching Adri finds her in the company of a captivating mermaid. In the struggle to free her sister from this frightening and beautiful creature, the mermaid grasps Adri's right wrist in a powerful grip, and embeds it with a magical and painful mark that serves as a conduit of communication between the two. When the local townsfolk become aware of the mermaid's mark, Adrianne is shunned by all but her best friend Denn, whom she loves, but without hope of his returning it. As the mermaid begins to call to her from the sea, it becomes increasingly difficult for Adrianne to ignore, until finally she determines that she must face the creature, even if it means death.
In a surprising turn of events, the mermaid doesn't wish to harm her, but rather to offer her a different life, apart from her loved ones and all of the trials that attend her present situation. The beauty and magic of the world underseas is overwhelming and almost impossible to resist. She is certain that very few islanders would even miss her, if she disappeared. So the anxiety mounts as she contemplates the choices in front of her. A perfectly spell-binding tale, with complex, believable characters in a lush, fantastical setting. Five stars! And this is just her first book! Can't wait to see more from this author.
March 31, 2010
Adrianne is a strong female character - one that has dealt with the weight of loss in more than one way. She holds herself responsible for her father's death and her family's financial ruin - yet she lives up to taking care of her family and being looked down upon by those her age. The aunt that resides with them also gives Adrianne grief on a regular basis -but she takes it all in and keeps doing as she feels she must. And for that reason, I just loved her character. I love my flawed and stubborn characters - the ones you know can survive nearly anything.
I loved how much you felt from the main character without having to be inside her head. Adrianne was easy to relate to - a girl in love with her neighbor and friend, an older sister, a trouble maker always by default without proof, and a girl who loves so deeply you can't begin to fathom her heart.
Sheila does a fantastic job with the setting and eludes to the older times without having to put it right out there. You feel like you're on this island when you're reading the book. I was also a bit surprised about how the story ended up. The mermaid is eluded to as powerful and dangerous, yet there's something more than that to the story. I must say that between the life of a girl struggling to reconcile with her past and the fantastical elements of the mermaid - it really was one powerful novel.
This is one of those books that is wrapped up wonderfully but you ache for what happens next in the characters' lives.
Did I say the word "love" enough in this review? No? I really loved it!
Read more: http://www.bookworminginthe21stcentur...
I loved how much you felt from the main character without having to be inside her head. Adrianne was easy to relate to - a girl in love with her neighbor and friend, an older sister, a trouble maker always by default without proof, and a girl who loves so deeply you can't begin to fathom her heart.
Sheila does a fantastic job with the setting and eludes to the older times without having to put it right out there. You feel like you're on this island when you're reading the book. I was also a bit surprised about how the story ended up. The mermaid is eluded to as powerful and dangerous, yet there's something more than that to the story. I must say that between the life of a girl struggling to reconcile with her past and the fantastical elements of the mermaid - it really was one powerful novel.
This is one of those books that is wrapped up wonderfully but you ache for what happens next in the characters' lives.
Did I say the word "love" enough in this review? No? I really loved it!
Read more: http://www.bookworminginthe21stcentur...
May 10, 2010
Adrianne is young, at only fourteen but she’s hardworking, determined and does what she can to help provide for her family. Adrianne used to have a comfortable life on the island but after her father’s sudden death, her family came upon hard times—both of which she feels responsible for.
The story takes place on Windwaithe Island which has a small close nit community and seems like an idyllic place to live. One of the first things I noticed was that the author never specifically states which particular time period the story takes place in but while reading you get a sense that the story does take place in an older time period.
There’s a big mystery connected to the island and it’s that over one hundred years ago Lady Lauretta was taken from the island by a mermaid into the ocean and never to be seen again. This legend of Lady Lauretta along with the villager’s superstitions really made me believe that the mermaids featured in this story were evil, killer mermaids that wanted a human sacrifice. That’s not the case, there’s a reason the mermaid kept coming after and luring Adrianne to her but you’ll just have to read the book to find out why.
I’m not sure if Forbidden Sea is a stand alone book or not. At the end of the book, Adrianne’s story is tied up nicely but I would love to revisit this world that Ms Nielson created and learn more about the mermaids.
The story takes place on Windwaithe Island which has a small close nit community and seems like an idyllic place to live. One of the first things I noticed was that the author never specifically states which particular time period the story takes place in but while reading you get a sense that the story does take place in an older time period.
There’s a big mystery connected to the island and it’s that over one hundred years ago Lady Lauretta was taken from the island by a mermaid into the ocean and never to be seen again. This legend of Lady Lauretta along with the villager’s superstitions really made me believe that the mermaids featured in this story were evil, killer mermaids that wanted a human sacrifice. That’s not the case, there’s a reason the mermaid kept coming after and luring Adrianne to her but you’ll just have to read the book to find out why.
I’m not sure if Forbidden Sea is a stand alone book or not. At the end of the book, Adrianne’s story is tied up nicely but I would love to revisit this world that Ms Nielson created and learn more about the mermaids.
October 23, 2010
This book has many things that make it quite special. The character development throughout it, is exquisite! I knew exactly what Adrianne, the main character felt like and I knew what was going on the whole time. It did take me a bit to figure out that it is set in either the early 1800's, the late 1800's or in the early 1900's. It takes place at Windwaithe, a small fishing town, where the people are more than superstitious. With tales of mermaids and mermen awaiting for prey in the vast ocean, the families of the island try to live life normally... but how normal is it for you to have a father who died in a tragic accident? Or to live with your rather brash Aunt Minna, while solely being the prime provider for the family? Or having a best friend who is blind to your love? Or to have a mermaid lure you into the ocean to take you away, for some reason unknown?
This book sure took me by surprise- and I did enjoy it. I wish the ending could have been different, but alas I was moved and provoked, and persuaded that "life under the sea" would be the next magical place, I'd sink into a book of.
This book sure took me by surprise- and I did enjoy it. I wish the ending could have been different, but alas I was moved and provoked, and persuaded that "life under the sea" would be the next magical place, I'd sink into a book of.
November 14, 2010
Call me crazy, but maybe I was completely off base in thinking that a book titled "Forbidden Sea" would actually be about the sea.
Unfortunately, there were only a few actual pages in this whole entire story that involved either the sea or mermaids, which was the biggest reason for me picking up the book to begin with.
I really wanted a book to get away from the mass amounts of paranormals that I had been reading lately involving vamps, shifters, magic users, etc. So the notion struck me, "let's find some books about mermaids, sirens, or maybe even selkies - something different for a change."
Yeah, well...so much for that idea. Don't get me wrong. This book was alright. The first half didn't really grab me, but it had its moments. If nothing else, the story slowly evolved into a cute emulation of a fairy tale. It never hurts for the overlooked heroine to finally catch the eye of the guy that she's pining for.
3 stars because the story wasn't bad, but I find myself having a harder time going any higher because nothing felt new or fresh to me.
Unfortunately, there were only a few actual pages in this whole entire story that involved either the sea or mermaids, which was the biggest reason for me picking up the book to begin with.
I really wanted a book to get away from the mass amounts of paranormals that I had been reading lately involving vamps, shifters, magic users, etc. So the notion struck me, "let's find some books about mermaids, sirens, or maybe even selkies - something different for a change."
Yeah, well...so much for that idea. Don't get me wrong. This book was alright. The first half didn't really grab me, but it had its moments. If nothing else, the story slowly evolved into a cute emulation of a fairy tale. It never hurts for the overlooked heroine to finally catch the eye of the guy that she's pining for.
3 stars because the story wasn't bad, but I find myself having a harder time going any higher because nothing felt new or fresh to me.
October 12, 2010
this author is my nieces' librarian, and when I was in Provo, she was the guest speaker at my sister's book group (clearly my sister has a higher standard for book group than I do). It was so interesting to hear her talking about the book and the stories that didn't make it into the book, and getting it published. She also had her own illustrations that didn't make it into the book, but they were so great and really added a lot to the story, I was glad I got to see those especially. It's a young adult novel, but great story, really liked the characters.
October 9, 2009
This is an amazing book about a young girl who is struggling to deal with the loss of her father, sudden poverty, and coming of age. She finds herself in love with a boy who has never thought of her as anything more than a sister. In all of this she then as to deal with being cursed by a mermaid, and potentially losing her life to the sea. I thought it was such a wonderful visual novel, entertaining with a strong female character. I LOVED this book. Everyone should read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2016
Wow, this book is beautiful! I'll admit, I was a little unsure of the writing style at first, but soon grew to love it. It's simple, yet elegant; understated, yet magical. The scenes with Denn were great, but the minute the mermaids were introduced, that was all I could think about. My only wish is that Jendayi was featured for more of the book. I'll probably buy the sequel soon.
August 23, 2023
I really identified with Adrianne and loved her character. Adrianne Keynnman, a fourteen-year-old girl living on Windwaithe Island is kind of like Cinderella. She is selfless and hardworking. She used to be rich then her father died and her family lost everything. Her mom and sister were kind but her aunt was so mean. Her mom irritated me, I wish she had more of a backbone and told Auntie Minna off. She believes Adrianne is responsible for their misfortune and is straight up awful to her but it really is the mom’s fault. I love a strong female character, but she also never stood up for herself and never expressed her emotions, which really upset me that she let people walk all over her. I hate that she thinks she’s nothing and not good enough.
Her father was killed in a riding accident. He used to be the horse master for Lord Durran but was replaced after his death by Master Wickliff, a cruel, incompetent trainer who beats the horses. Adrianne saves Wickliff after he fell off his horse and Lord Durran asks if she wants to replace Wickliff. Woo hoo!
Denn the boy next door, doesn’t see her as anything but a little sister/friend and is infatuated with this awful girl, Cora Lynn. Cora is the worst! She bullies Adrianne along with the rest of the island. Cora also belittles anyone who doesn’t have money like the tide drifters. Adrianne gives them her two slices of bread for the day because they are starving and Cora had three giant loaves and wouldn’t give them any. She also called the police and had them arrested and taken off the island.
Denn and his family help Adrianne and her family after her father died. He even takes their dog, Lark since they can’t afford him anymore. However, Denn is a stupid young male who doesn’t see Adrianne for the gem she is. Adrianne is in love with Denn and he doesn’t see it. She even professes her love for him and he is speechless…page 210-211 “I tried not to love you, Denn. I really didn’t want our friendship to end this way. I’m sorry”. He cares about her but his feelings don’t change until she leaves.
Now to the weird part of the story. They just popped a little bit of magic and mermaids to this story. She has grown up hearing stories about the Windwaithe Mermaid, who supposedly abducted a woman a century ago. One stormy night, Adrianne actually sees the mermaid, who tries to abduct Adrianne's nine-year-old sister Cecily. Adrianne is determined to protect Cecily, but the mermaid isn't giving up. During Adrianne and Cecily's first encounter with the mermaid, the mermaid grabs Adrianne by the wrist and scratches her, leaving three raised welts that don't seem to be healing as quickly as they should. Adrianne sleeps for three days after. The mermaid attacks Adrianne and Cecily while they're in a boat in the lagoon. The mermaid holds Cecily underwater, and to make her let go, Adrianne yanks her hair. Adrianne doesn't think it's unusual until she and Cecily visit a fortuneteller, who says that she bears the mark of the Windwaithe Mermaid, just like Lauretta Durran, who was similarly marked a hundred years ago, causing the island to be stricken by catastrophic storms until she agreed to go into the ocean to be the Sea Prince's bride. The fortuneteller screams at the sisters to leave the island before they get everyone killed. Then she starts hearing and dreaming about the mermaid! The Windwaithe Mermaid comes, summoning Adrianne and terrifying the superstitious villagers. Honestly the first 200 pages of the book I didn’t know if the mermaid was real or not. It was kind of a mystery. Was she imagining this mermaid? Nope! The mermaid is real! They meet up at the Rumbles and she takes Adrianne away! She takes her to visit the Sea Prince. He lives in a palace in Siarah, a city thousands of feet under the sea, lit by magic orbs that draw energy from the surrounding water. Most merfolk live in towering structures that consist of many houses stacked on top of each other. Adrianne was chosen by the mermaid, Jendayi to marry the handsome Sea Prince. Adrianne meets Lauretta the girl who was taken by the mermaid 100 years prior and she’s happily married to Prince Dasarian and still alive! Now Adrianne needs to make a choice between a magical life of undersea romance or the poverty and degradation she knows on land. It ought to be an easy choice, but perhaps not. Before she meets her Sea Prince, Adrianne freaks out. She realizes she’ll never be able to go home and see her family or Denn again. She tells Jendayi to take her home. She refuses because no one on land sees Adrianne for the wonderful person she is and Adrianne says she is just like Lauretta’s father who 100 years ago tried to keep her from doing what she wanted. So Jendayi took her back and said she would never see her again and hopes she’s happy with her decision. Adrianne runs off to find Denn who is happy and relieved she’s back.
Honestly I was upset there was only 90ish pages about the mermaid and underwater sea world. The whole book it was a mystery if the mermaid was even real. I thought there would be a lot more mermaids and world building. I didn’t like the ending! I really wish she stayed and at least met the sea prince. I was on Jenayi’s team! Instead, she ran away back to Denn and her family that were all just awful to her. Glad she got the Horse Master job. At least she had that to look forward to and hopefully everything changes for her and Denn finally sees her for what she is. It’s baffling and sad to think Adrianne had to travel to an underwater sea world to find her own self-worth. Well at least she’s happy…or at least I hope she is. Hopefully I’ll find out in the next book what became of her.
Her father was killed in a riding accident. He used to be the horse master for Lord Durran but was replaced after his death by Master Wickliff, a cruel, incompetent trainer who beats the horses. Adrianne saves Wickliff after he fell off his horse and Lord Durran asks if she wants to replace Wickliff. Woo hoo!
Denn the boy next door, doesn’t see her as anything but a little sister/friend and is infatuated with this awful girl, Cora Lynn. Cora is the worst! She bullies Adrianne along with the rest of the island. Cora also belittles anyone who doesn’t have money like the tide drifters. Adrianne gives them her two slices of bread for the day because they are starving and Cora had three giant loaves and wouldn’t give them any. She also called the police and had them arrested and taken off the island.
Denn and his family help Adrianne and her family after her father died. He even takes their dog, Lark since they can’t afford him anymore. However, Denn is a stupid young male who doesn’t see Adrianne for the gem she is. Adrianne is in love with Denn and he doesn’t see it. She even professes her love for him and he is speechless…page 210-211 “I tried not to love you, Denn. I really didn’t want our friendship to end this way. I’m sorry”. He cares about her but his feelings don’t change until she leaves.
Now to the weird part of the story. They just popped a little bit of magic and mermaids to this story. She has grown up hearing stories about the Windwaithe Mermaid, who supposedly abducted a woman a century ago. One stormy night, Adrianne actually sees the mermaid, who tries to abduct Adrianne's nine-year-old sister Cecily. Adrianne is determined to protect Cecily, but the mermaid isn't giving up. During Adrianne and Cecily's first encounter with the mermaid, the mermaid grabs Adrianne by the wrist and scratches her, leaving three raised welts that don't seem to be healing as quickly as they should. Adrianne sleeps for three days after. The mermaid attacks Adrianne and Cecily while they're in a boat in the lagoon. The mermaid holds Cecily underwater, and to make her let go, Adrianne yanks her hair. Adrianne doesn't think it's unusual until she and Cecily visit a fortuneteller, who says that she bears the mark of the Windwaithe Mermaid, just like Lauretta Durran, who was similarly marked a hundred years ago, causing the island to be stricken by catastrophic storms until she agreed to go into the ocean to be the Sea Prince's bride. The fortuneteller screams at the sisters to leave the island before they get everyone killed. Then she starts hearing and dreaming about the mermaid! The Windwaithe Mermaid comes, summoning Adrianne and terrifying the superstitious villagers. Honestly the first 200 pages of the book I didn’t know if the mermaid was real or not. It was kind of a mystery. Was she imagining this mermaid? Nope! The mermaid is real! They meet up at the Rumbles and she takes Adrianne away! She takes her to visit the Sea Prince. He lives in a palace in Siarah, a city thousands of feet under the sea, lit by magic orbs that draw energy from the surrounding water. Most merfolk live in towering structures that consist of many houses stacked on top of each other. Adrianne was chosen by the mermaid, Jendayi to marry the handsome Sea Prince. Adrianne meets Lauretta the girl who was taken by the mermaid 100 years prior and she’s happily married to Prince Dasarian and still alive! Now Adrianne needs to make a choice between a magical life of undersea romance or the poverty and degradation she knows on land. It ought to be an easy choice, but perhaps not. Before she meets her Sea Prince, Adrianne freaks out. She realizes she’ll never be able to go home and see her family or Denn again. She tells Jendayi to take her home. She refuses because no one on land sees Adrianne for the wonderful person she is and Adrianne says she is just like Lauretta’s father who 100 years ago tried to keep her from doing what she wanted. So Jendayi took her back and said she would never see her again and hopes she’s happy with her decision. Adrianne runs off to find Denn who is happy and relieved she’s back.
Honestly I was upset there was only 90ish pages about the mermaid and underwater sea world. The whole book it was a mystery if the mermaid was even real. I thought there would be a lot more mermaids and world building. I didn’t like the ending! I really wish she stayed and at least met the sea prince. I was on Jenayi’s team! Instead, she ran away back to Denn and her family that were all just awful to her. Glad she got the Horse Master job. At least she had that to look forward to and hopefully everything changes for her and Denn finally sees her for what she is. It’s baffling and sad to think Adrianne had to travel to an underwater sea world to find her own self-worth. Well at least she’s happy…or at least I hope she is. Hopefully I’ll find out in the next book what became of her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2013
I read this book to my 5th graders two years ago. They loved it and I enjoyed it as well! Great twist to a mermaid story. We e-mailed the author to ask her for a sequel. She e-mailed us back, which the kids thought was amazing! I would definitely read anything else this author puts out there.
May 25, 2015
Not my favorite genre but I couldn't put this one down. I'm really impressed with this author. Middle grades and young adults who love fantasy (mixed with real life) will love this book. 4.5
July 4, 2019
Forbidden Sea was a captivating land versus sea adventure! My niece picked this one out from the children's section at our local library to kick off our summer book club. And I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this book myself!
The action jumps off at the first page when Adrienne, a young teenage girl who's father died two years prior in a tragic accident, and she is left with the responsibility of caring for her family. One night when Adrianne's sister goes missing during a horrible storm, she goes in search to find her by the shore of their town.
But when Adrienne finds her sister during a maylay of events, she comes face-to-face with the mermaid of Windwaite Island, of whom she has heard awful tales all her life.
Adrienne believes the mermaid means to take her younger sister away and drag her down to the depths of the sea, much like the tales she has heard before. But Adrienne is determined to protect her sister from the mermaid and also try to keep her family from starvation.
But the mermaid continues to haunt Adrienne in her dreams with her enchanting song...
So, any time I hear the word mermaid I always think of Ariel from The Little Mermaid. (Lol, my favorie movie as a kid, by the way!) But this book definitely takes on a mysterious edge.
The writer does a great job of keeping the reader vacillating back and forth anout mermaid's intentions throughout the story, that will definitely keep you flipping the pages for more!
Adrienne is such awesome heroine in this story! She was just so brave, determined and kind, even when people were horrible to her. Adrianne's aunt being at the top of list...There were a few parts where I felt like "lady you can catch these hands!", lol! But the despite the hardships Adrienne went through, she is continually compassionate to those around her.
Denn, Adrienne best friend who she secretly fallen for, was one of my favorite characters as well! He was so easy going andsweet to Adrienne! Lol! Complete oblivious to her true feelings towards him, but still sweet! I adored the friendship between them, it brought a needed lightness to the story.
I also loved the beautifully vivid descriptions of the Irish seaside town, the sea below and the characters within, that made you feel like you are being transported to another world.
This was definitely a fun read!
I give it 4 stars!
August 5, 2020
How do I not have a review written for this book yet??? I mean, I've read it so many times already!! It's such a quick read, but so unforgettable, if you ask me!
To keep it short and sweet, this is a book that has stayed with me ever since I found it on the shelves at my middle school back in the day. I was entranced by the cover (my copy now is the UK edition, somehow, but I love the US edition as well!) and the story of this island girl getting to go to a kingdom of mermaids beneath the sea that's more beautiful than anything in her wildest dreams.
But I'm getting ahead of myself. The story definitely does not start out that way.
Instead, it starts in a storm as MC Adrianne is trying to find her little sister Cecily and meets what appears to be a vicious mermaid of island legend. Mermaids, the people on her island say, will mark a girl and drown her at sea as a sacrifice--and they will terrorize the rest of the island until they get the girl. Everything that follows in this story is tied to Adrianne's meeting with that mermaid on that tempestuous night.
I won't summarize the whole plot, but Adrianne is as worthy a heroine as you can get. She is so good, but not the kind of good that makes you roll your eyes or gag at her self-righteousness. She understands riches and poverty, hunger, desperation, and painful yearning and regret. I loved her and empathized with her from the first chapter. And I loved her even more when I learned about the tragedy in her past that still affected her family each day. No, she is just the kind of good that melts your heart, for she has the quiet kind of strength that chooses what's best for others even if it hurts.
And it does hurt. I have cried out my heart for her while reading and rereading this book. Seriously. This book is so incredibly heart-wrenching. The first time I read it, I was lying on the couch, and my tears slid down my face so steadily that I left a noticeable patch of tears on the armrest by the time I finished. I don't think I've ever bawled over a book like I have this one. But I can't help it. This book just pushes all the right emotional buttons for me.
Anyway, if you want a sweet fairytale about islands, mermaids, the sea, and a character who is so real but heart-achingly unselfish, this book is for you. Just don't forget to have some tissues nearby. I promise you'll need them! 😉
To keep it short and sweet, this is a book that has stayed with me ever since I found it on the shelves at my middle school back in the day. I was entranced by the cover (my copy now is the UK edition, somehow, but I love the US edition as well!) and the story of this island girl getting to go to a kingdom of mermaids beneath the sea that's more beautiful than anything in her wildest dreams.
But I'm getting ahead of myself. The story definitely does not start out that way.
Instead, it starts in a storm as MC Adrianne is trying to find her little sister Cecily and meets what appears to be a vicious mermaid of island legend. Mermaids, the people on her island say, will mark a girl and drown her at sea as a sacrifice--and they will terrorize the rest of the island until they get the girl. Everything that follows in this story is tied to Adrianne's meeting with that mermaid on that tempestuous night.
I won't summarize the whole plot, but Adrianne is as worthy a heroine as you can get. She is so good, but not the kind of good that makes you roll your eyes or gag at her self-righteousness. She understands riches and poverty, hunger, desperation, and painful yearning and regret. I loved her and empathized with her from the first chapter. And I loved her even more when I learned about the tragedy in her past that still affected her family each day. No, she is just the kind of good that melts your heart, for she has the quiet kind of strength that chooses what's best for others even if it hurts.
And it does hurt. I have cried out my heart for her while reading and rereading this book. Seriously. This book is so incredibly heart-wrenching. The first time I read it, I was lying on the couch, and my tears slid down my face so steadily that I left a noticeable patch of tears on the armrest by the time I finished. I don't think I've ever bawled over a book like I have this one. But I can't help it. This book just pushes all the right emotional buttons for me.
Anyway, if you want a sweet fairytale about islands, mermaids, the sea, and a character who is so real but heart-achingly unselfish, this book is for you. Just don't forget to have some tissues nearby. I promise you'll need them! 😉
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