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Dark Tides #2
Siren's Surrender
Never embracing her mermaid heritage, Gwen Lonike lives in the human world as the owner of a Maine B&B. But when the gateway to a lost mermaid kingdom is opened, freeing its dangerous queen, Gwen can no longer hide, nor keep her secret from covert agent Blake Whittaker, who's assigned to trail a strange thread of paranormal activity.
How long can Gwen and her sisters remain safe from a destructive queen, and from Blake's superiors, whose ultimate mission could prove the greatest threat of all?
How long can Gwen and her sisters remain safe from a destructive queen, and from Blake's superiors, whose ultimate mission could prove the greatest threat of all?
376 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 10, 2010
7 people are currently reading
692 people want to read
About the author
Devyn Quinn
48 books301 followersDevyn Quinn lives in the scenic Southwest, though she has called several other states home. She is a huge fan of dark gothic music & shoot-’em-up action movies. But reading is her first love and Devyn spends too much time with history books, as well as feeding her addiction for celebrity biographies. She especially enjoys reading books on Hollywood before the 1960′s and is crazy about Marilyn Monroe, her legend and her myth.
Has also written under AKAs:
Caitlyn McKenna
Jeya Jenson
From website:
I started out writing paranormal romance under a few pen names that didn’t get very far in the publishing world. Later on, after years of not writing, I debuted in small press and used the name of Caitlyn McKenna. My first releases were Echoes of Angels (later re-released as The Keeper of Eternity) and Descent of Demons (later re-released as The Price of Eternity). When I began writing erotic romance, I wrote under the name of Jeya Jenson for several epublishers/small presses such as Ellora’s Cave, Extasy Books and others. Later, I was offered a contract by a NY publishing house, and neither pen name was acceptable to the editor. After batting some names around, I became Devyn Quinn. Several of my Jeya Jenson titles also made the jump to print, such as Flesh and the Devil (Kensington Aphrodisia), Before Night Falls (now published as Sins of the Flesh, Kensington Aphrodisia) and Sins of Flesh (now published as Sins of the Night, Kensington Aphrodisia).
At this time I write solely under the name of Devyn Quinn and will continue to do so in
Has also written under AKAs:
Caitlyn McKenna
Jeya Jenson
From website:
I started out writing paranormal romance under a few pen names that didn’t get very far in the publishing world. Later on, after years of not writing, I debuted in small press and used the name of Caitlyn McKenna. My first releases were Echoes of Angels (later re-released as The Keeper of Eternity) and Descent of Demons (later re-released as The Price of Eternity). When I began writing erotic romance, I wrote under the name of Jeya Jenson for several epublishers/small presses such as Ellora’s Cave, Extasy Books and others. Later, I was offered a contract by a NY publishing house, and neither pen name was acceptable to the editor. After batting some names around, I became Devyn Quinn. Several of my Jeya Jenson titles also made the jump to print, such as Flesh and the Devil (Kensington Aphrodisia), Before Night Falls (now published as Sins of the Flesh, Kensington Aphrodisia) and Sins of Flesh (now published as Sins of the Night, Kensington Aphrodisia).
At this time I write solely under the name of Devyn Quinn and will continue to do so in
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
February 12, 2011
This is book two in the Dark Tides series. I didn’t read book one but I never felt lost without it. I think the author did a good job of making this book stand on its own. So, if you’re interested in jumping right in I don’t think you should have any issues.
It was hard for me to get into the book at first because I wasn’t caught up enough to be distracted from the author’s writing style. This is not a unique style, I’ve seen it before in other books, but it’s just not for me. I could never forget that the author was telling me this story. She inserted her author voice in heavily throughout the story. Characters would have clunky chunks of explanation paired to a comment or actions that didn’t feel natural for an inner voice. Also, a lot of things were told instead of shown, and the characters did not have unique voices to help you fall into their pov’s.
I also felt that some things were a little too heavy-handed in addition to the author’s voice in the narrative. On page two--Page Two!!!--I was hit over the head with some very heavy hints about the hero’s past mother issues. I just didn’t like that. I would like some time to get to know the characters and actually start to care about them before I have to hear about their issues. Then later in the book he decides to open up and dump what would seem to me to be very private memories of his past with barely any provocation. It just seemed like an odd time and place for a heart to heart.
I found the storyline really interesting, but it didn’t lend itself very well to a Romance. There was barely any time spent on face time in the relationship because they were under lockdown for most of the book and they were on opposites sides to boot. Most of the time was spent on their captivity and the various ways they had lost their rights. I liked that the author didn’t shy away from this, but I felt it would have been a little bit better if the book had been a little darker or more intense. It was just a little too light to handle the subject well.
I also liked that the author had the hero, Blake, stay true to his job. He didn’t give up his career willy-nilly for Gwen or her family even though he had doubts about the rightness of the government’s actions. But…once again, that doesn’t lend itself very well to a Romance. It’s hard to get into a hero when he’s aligned with a group that is holding the heroine and her family prisoner and shows no sign of changing his loyalties. I may still like his narrative, but it doesn’t make him date material.
So, I liked the storyline idea, but I didn’t like it as a Romance. The actual romance was a background feature in the story and that’s not what I’m drawn to in books like this. I want to see the main characters fall in love and grow as a couple. That didn’t happen here. Honestly, I think Gwen and Blake spent under five days in each other’s company. More time than that elapsed in the story, but they weren’t hanging out together for most of it.
Because of the weakness in the romance I’m glad the author ended the book with the characters getting together but not exchanging I Love You’s. I couldn’t have swallowed it if they did. I have to admit that they did have a few inner thoughts about love before that, but I was able to ignore it while I was reading.
I don’t think I’ll rush out to buy the next book in this series, but I definitely don’t regret my time reading this one. The author has some very interesting ideas that I liked exploring.
Favorite Quote:
Review originally posted on Fiction Vixen.
It was hard for me to get into the book at first because I wasn’t caught up enough to be distracted from the author’s writing style. This is not a unique style, I’ve seen it before in other books, but it’s just not for me. I could never forget that the author was telling me this story. She inserted her author voice in heavily throughout the story. Characters would have clunky chunks of explanation paired to a comment or actions that didn’t feel natural for an inner voice. Also, a lot of things were told instead of shown, and the characters did not have unique voices to help you fall into their pov’s.
I also felt that some things were a little too heavy-handed in addition to the author’s voice in the narrative. On page two--Page Two!!!--I was hit over the head with some very heavy hints about the hero’s past mother issues. I just didn’t like that. I would like some time to get to know the characters and actually start to care about them before I have to hear about their issues. Then later in the book he decides to open up and dump what would seem to me to be very private memories of his past with barely any provocation. It just seemed like an odd time and place for a heart to heart.
I found the storyline really interesting, but it didn’t lend itself very well to a Romance. There was barely any time spent on face time in the relationship because they were under lockdown for most of the book and they were on opposites sides to boot. Most of the time was spent on their captivity and the various ways they had lost their rights. I liked that the author didn’t shy away from this, but I felt it would have been a little bit better if the book had been a little darker or more intense. It was just a little too light to handle the subject well.
I also liked that the author had the hero, Blake, stay true to his job. He didn’t give up his career willy-nilly for Gwen or her family even though he had doubts about the rightness of the government’s actions. But…once again, that doesn’t lend itself very well to a Romance. It’s hard to get into a hero when he’s aligned with a group that is holding the heroine and her family prisoner and shows no sign of changing his loyalties. I may still like his narrative, but it doesn’t make him date material.
So, I liked the storyline idea, but I didn’t like it as a Romance. The actual romance was a background feature in the story and that’s not what I’m drawn to in books like this. I want to see the main characters fall in love and grow as a couple. That didn’t happen here. Honestly, I think Gwen and Blake spent under five days in each other’s company. More time than that elapsed in the story, but they weren’t hanging out together for most of it.
Because of the weakness in the romance I’m glad the author ended the book with the characters getting together but not exchanging I Love You’s. I couldn’t have swallowed it if they did. I have to admit that they did have a few inner thoughts about love before that, but I was able to ignore it while I was reading.
I don’t think I’ll rush out to buy the next book in this series, but I definitely don’t regret my time reading this one. The author has some very interesting ideas that I liked exploring.
Favorite Quote:
"Don't settle for ordinary," he told her. "There's already too damn much of that going around. Be what you really are, Gwen. Be extraordinary. Hiding who you are, what you really are, is no way to go through life."
Gwen's gaze locked with his. Her compelling green eyes glimmered with the rise of tears. "Will anyone accept what I really am?" she asked softly.
Review originally posted on Fiction Vixen.
November 17, 2024
2.5 ⭐️
Read this during Helene, truly don’t remember much about the book except for it was fine, but I also wanted it to be more adventuring or even more swashbuckling. I got the impression that the book that proceeded this one which I have not read was more that vibe. Not sure if I will search for it tho as I got this copy second hand🤷♀️
Read this during Helene, truly don’t remember much about the book except for it was fine, but I also wanted it to be more adventuring or even more swashbuckling. I got the impression that the book that proceeded this one which I have not read was more that vibe. Not sure if I will search for it tho as I got this copy second hand🤷♀️
January 27, 2011
Devyn Quinn creates an intriguing and imaginative twist to her new paranormal series. The latest installation of her Dark Tides series will suck readers deep into her mythological world.
Gwen Lonike has always hated being a Mermaid. Spending her whole life denying her heritage, she is upset when she is forced to come out and help defeat the evil mermaid queen that her sister accidentally released (Siren’s Call). To make matters worst, Blake Whittaker, an FBI agent working in a special unit, shows up to investigate paranormal activities that were reported in their region.
Blake is from Port Rock, Maine and is far from happy to return home. His hometown stirs up a lot of painful memories. It is rather ironic that Gwen’s love interest is a man who is afraid of the water. Blake’s mother was an alcoholic who had abused him with some very painful and disturbing tactics, so his fear is warranted. It is almost fitting that Gwen and Blake are paired up because she does deny her Mer side for the most part.
The book starts off interesting enough. We learn that Jake and the sea queen are ready to take over the sea and the land. They still need Tessa to go through the Seagate and they plan a full attack to abduct her. The government becomes involve and deem the mermaids as dangerous creatures. Gwen and her sister are detained by the government and Blake is used by his superiors to try to convince Gwen to share some of the Mer’s secrets.
This is where the story goes down hill. The bulk of the book is focused on the government trying to figure out who the Mer is and what type of powers they possessed. After a chapter or two of the constant questions and redundant dialogue, I wanted some more action. What I have noticed in this series is that sometimes the romance is lost in the story. There are so many details in the story that the author almost forget about the main characters. The world building and back story is very important but the need for the romance still need to remain forefront in the novel. Eventually she re-focuses more on Gwen and Blake at the government compound but by then, the book is almost over and I almost lost interest.
Overall, I am recommending this story to the fans of the first book and paranormal lovers. I would still pick up the next book in the series because I’m curious to know how they will finally defeat the mermaid queen.
Gwen Lonike has always hated being a Mermaid. Spending her whole life denying her heritage, she is upset when she is forced to come out and help defeat the evil mermaid queen that her sister accidentally released (Siren’s Call). To make matters worst, Blake Whittaker, an FBI agent working in a special unit, shows up to investigate paranormal activities that were reported in their region.
Blake is from Port Rock, Maine and is far from happy to return home. His hometown stirs up a lot of painful memories. It is rather ironic that Gwen’s love interest is a man who is afraid of the water. Blake’s mother was an alcoholic who had abused him with some very painful and disturbing tactics, so his fear is warranted. It is almost fitting that Gwen and Blake are paired up because she does deny her Mer side for the most part.
The book starts off interesting enough. We learn that Jake and the sea queen are ready to take over the sea and the land. They still need Tessa to go through the Seagate and they plan a full attack to abduct her. The government becomes involve and deem the mermaids as dangerous creatures. Gwen and her sister are detained by the government and Blake is used by his superiors to try to convince Gwen to share some of the Mer’s secrets.
This is where the story goes down hill. The bulk of the book is focused on the government trying to figure out who the Mer is and what type of powers they possessed. After a chapter or two of the constant questions and redundant dialogue, I wanted some more action. What I have noticed in this series is that sometimes the romance is lost in the story. There are so many details in the story that the author almost forget about the main characters. The world building and back story is very important but the need for the romance still need to remain forefront in the novel. Eventually she re-focuses more on Gwen and Blake at the government compound but by then, the book is almost over and I almost lost interest.
Overall, I am recommending this story to the fans of the first book and paranormal lovers. I would still pick up the next book in the series because I’m curious to know how they will finally defeat the mermaid queen.
February 9, 2014
Heartwarming Dedication & Passionate!
Devyn Quinn’s intriguing mythological world of the Mermaids is one of the best worlds I love being immersed into. With imaginative visionary scenes I found myself captivated and wanting the story to last forever.
Gwen Lonike is an unusual Mermaid because she tries to deny her heritage regardless of her sister’s constant reminders. I love her stubbornness and wit and she becomes humorous at times with her determination especially when she meets the almighty Blake Whittaker.
Blake Whittaker is an FBI agent that is duty bound but his compassion and understanding of the situation with Gwen give him a better insight of trust such as the Mer’s secrets than with his own special unit. I loved the fact that his honor to do what is right and what he believes in is worth the sacrifice and fight.
The story’s plot remains interesting as it is carried over from the first book “Siren’s Call”. With this book as circumstances have it, Gwen’s sister accidently releases an evil mermaid queen that is hell bent on abducting Tessa to go through the Seagate along with the help of Jake to take over the sea and rule the land. However when the FBI gets wind of the paranormal activities going on around Mer Island then all kinds of drama and action unfold.
Meanwhile, between all the investigation and questioning done by the several government agencies, Blake and Gwen’s attraction builds and trust wins the heart even through the mistrust of the other team members in the FBI special unit. Their chemistry electrifies with heart pounding exploding passion.
I loved this story, I felt the heartwarming dedication and passion from the characters and I can’t wait for the next book to see the Lonike Sisters defeat the evil Mermaid Queen and see all the sisters with their happy ever after life they deserve.
Excellent Read!
Devyn Quinn’s intriguing mythological world of the Mermaids is one of the best worlds I love being immersed into. With imaginative visionary scenes I found myself captivated and wanting the story to last forever.
Gwen Lonike is an unusual Mermaid because she tries to deny her heritage regardless of her sister’s constant reminders. I love her stubbornness and wit and she becomes humorous at times with her determination especially when she meets the almighty Blake Whittaker.
Blake Whittaker is an FBI agent that is duty bound but his compassion and understanding of the situation with Gwen give him a better insight of trust such as the Mer’s secrets than with his own special unit. I loved the fact that his honor to do what is right and what he believes in is worth the sacrifice and fight.
The story’s plot remains interesting as it is carried over from the first book “Siren’s Call”. With this book as circumstances have it, Gwen’s sister accidently releases an evil mermaid queen that is hell bent on abducting Tessa to go through the Seagate along with the help of Jake to take over the sea and rule the land. However when the FBI gets wind of the paranormal activities going on around Mer Island then all kinds of drama and action unfold.
Meanwhile, between all the investigation and questioning done by the several government agencies, Blake and Gwen’s attraction builds and trust wins the heart even through the mistrust of the other team members in the FBI special unit. Their chemistry electrifies with heart pounding exploding passion.
I loved this story, I felt the heartwarming dedication and passion from the characters and I can’t wait for the next book to see the Lonike Sisters defeat the evil Mermaid Queen and see all the sisters with their happy ever after life they deserve.
Excellent Read!
February 9, 2011
MAGICAL!!!
I loved this book. You can read what it's about in the editorial section. I want to tell you about Devyn Quinn's writing. I love it. She has this way of lulling you into a blissful complacency, and just when you least expect it, her hero will say something or do something that has your heart in your throat it is so sexy and so unexpected. This story is sensual and desperate and surreal. I loved it. Loved the magic. Loved the main characters. And then there's that gorgeous cover! Just wow all the way around.
I loved this book. You can read what it's about in the editorial section. I want to tell you about Devyn Quinn's writing. I love it. She has this way of lulling you into a blissful complacency, and just when you least expect it, her hero will say something or do something that has your heart in your throat it is so sexy and so unexpected. This story is sensual and desperate and surreal. I loved it. Loved the magic. Loved the main characters. And then there's that gorgeous cover! Just wow all the way around.
dnf
July 11, 2015I dunno. Stuff happened. I skimmed, I skimmed some more. Yawn. DNF. It was ok, but who wants ok?
August 12, 2025
I was really sad with how short this book was, as I was so invested! It seemed like there was a lot that had to happen that didn't--but I realize there is still a book 3.
I felt the mermaid reveal to Blake was a bit too fast and then they all too willingly told him everything which wasn't very realistic. They hopped into bed too quickly as well, esp for someone like Gwen who seems very cautious (and she was a virgin. I feel like the payoff would have been way better.for them to make love once they were both free.) Another odd element was how easily Blake got them out of a max security Area 51 and how he had no charges (I thought Thompson had to go with him to see the cells and that he did not have a ton of authority...yet he "pulled rank") ...BUT I suppose if the govt wants to keep "aliens" a secret theyll let treason go? A bit funny, but sure I can suspend disbelief for that and for an HeA.
Here's where my heartstrings hurt:
1.) Gwen and Blake's love story was half spent ripped apart (they fucked one night and had this DEEP soul connection that was never explored (see above where I referenced them fucking too quickly). Gwen never told him she could feel this "mate?" tug, but apparently he could feel it too and yet it was never a thing that was discussed and was passed off as normal heat between two lovers wanting one another.
2.) When everything *finally* cleared to make way for their unbidden romance, the book had ended. I wish we got to see a lot more of their romance outside of the conflicts. (But again, this will probably be through Addison's eyes in Book 3). I related to Gwen hard though and I wish we could still be in her and Blake's POV for the progression of their relationship.
3.) Blake centered a lot of his love of life around his child, Trevor, and then just...let him go with the mom in the end with a nonchalant shrug which was out of character. I would have thought Gwen would help him fight for *more* custody and not less. Blake didnt seem like he wanted his young son moving across the country away from him.
4.) Why the hell was the cousin storyline dropped? Like..NOTHING came of it? ALL of those girls deserve to meet Kendra and Sandra and those twins NEED to know their mother wasnt just a looney toon who comitted suicide bc of "voices in her head" and that it was actually her MerCraft driving her crazy! And why wasnt it established that that can happen if suppressed too long?? We had clues that it was slooowly starting with Gwen but then NOTHING about it ever again...even though she still kinda wants to remain as human as possible in the end and basically theyre forced to. Do they even know it will drive them to madness?? [I HOPE the cousin thing is picked up in Book 3 or Imma be mad tbh. They WANTED to meet the sisters]
5.) And finally...I was thinking we would see Gwen slowly help Blake conquer his fear of the water. She's a mermaid and if he wants to be with her he's going to have to get used to it eventually. She even promised him he would be safe when they were fleeing. I would've loved it more, due to his childhood abuse and difficulty trusting women, if he had 100% trusted HER in the moment to keep him safe as she had the whole book. That moment fell so flat for me when he still refused to go with her. I also think Kenneth 100% wouldve gone with Tessa.
ALL IN ALL, I lovedddd the characters and loveddd the premise but some of the scenes didn't totally match the established character traits given to the characters which made me a bit upset. I am def still going to read Addie's book though, esp to see the resolution of the giant war with Magaera (but tbh shes a cliche villain imo which is also sad. I hope she gets more evil in Book 3 or else shes a bit cartoony.)
Oh, and Jake Massey...I hope the fuck you get killed bc of your own stupidity you arrogant fucking perverted prick.
I felt the mermaid reveal to Blake was a bit too fast and then they all too willingly told him everything which wasn't very realistic. They hopped into bed too quickly as well, esp for someone like Gwen who seems very cautious (and she was a virgin. I feel like the payoff would have been way better.for them to make love once they were both free.) Another odd element was how easily Blake got them out of a max security Area 51 and how he had no charges (I thought Thompson had to go with him to see the cells and that he did not have a ton of authority...yet he "pulled rank") ...BUT I suppose if the govt wants to keep "aliens" a secret theyll let treason go? A bit funny, but sure I can suspend disbelief for that and for an HeA.
Here's where my heartstrings hurt:
1.) Gwen and Blake's love story was half spent ripped apart (they fucked one night and had this DEEP soul connection that was never explored (see above where I referenced them fucking too quickly). Gwen never told him she could feel this "mate?" tug, but apparently he could feel it too and yet it was never a thing that was discussed and was passed off as normal heat between two lovers wanting one another.
2.) When everything *finally* cleared to make way for their unbidden romance, the book had ended. I wish we got to see a lot more of their romance outside of the conflicts. (But again, this will probably be through Addison's eyes in Book 3). I related to Gwen hard though and I wish we could still be in her and Blake's POV for the progression of their relationship.
3.) Blake centered a lot of his love of life around his child, Trevor, and then just...let him go with the mom in the end with a nonchalant shrug which was out of character. I would have thought Gwen would help him fight for *more* custody and not less. Blake didnt seem like he wanted his young son moving across the country away from him.
4.) Why the hell was the cousin storyline dropped? Like..NOTHING came of it? ALL of those girls deserve to meet Kendra and Sandra and those twins NEED to know their mother wasnt just a looney toon who comitted suicide bc of "voices in her head" and that it was actually her MerCraft driving her crazy! And why wasnt it established that that can happen if suppressed too long?? We had clues that it was slooowly starting with Gwen but then NOTHING about it ever again...even though she still kinda wants to remain as human as possible in the end and basically theyre forced to. Do they even know it will drive them to madness?? [I HOPE the cousin thing is picked up in Book 3 or Imma be mad tbh. They WANTED to meet the sisters]
5.) And finally...I was thinking we would see Gwen slowly help Blake conquer his fear of the water. She's a mermaid and if he wants to be with her he's going to have to get used to it eventually. She even promised him he would be safe when they were fleeing. I would've loved it more, due to his childhood abuse and difficulty trusting women, if he had 100% trusted HER in the moment to keep him safe as she had the whole book. That moment fell so flat for me when he still refused to go with her. I also think Kenneth 100% wouldve gone with Tessa.
ALL IN ALL, I lovedddd the characters and loveddd the premise but some of the scenes didn't totally match the established character traits given to the characters which made me a bit upset. I am def still going to read Addie's book though, esp to see the resolution of the giant war with Magaera (but tbh shes a cliche villain imo which is also sad. I hope she gets more evil in Book 3 or else shes a bit cartoony.)
Oh, and Jake Massey...I hope the fuck you get killed bc of your own stupidity you arrogant fucking perverted prick.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2018
Decent storyline. While part of a much bigger story, this second installment was an okay read. The ending seemed too forced but not to the extent that is was beyond the realm of possibilities. Great characters and development. Good dialogue. Further attention paid to the "other" side of evil mermaids and their helper would have been welcome. Ultimately, a good read in the mermaid fiction paranormal romance categories.
May 13, 2020
Good read
The second book in the series is not as good as the first one. The middle of the novel was a bit slow and tedious. The character Gwen and Blake were not as exciting and interesting as Kenneth and Tessa. Overall exciting adventure in the high seas.
The second book in the series is not as good as the first one. The middle of the novel was a bit slow and tedious. The character Gwen and Blake were not as exciting and interesting as Kenneth and Tessa. Overall exciting adventure in the high seas.
January 6, 2021
This is the second in the series and I did enjoy it but not as much as the first! The end felt a bit rushed and the stay in federal custody seemed to go on about things we really didn’t care about! But we got to see Gwen find her love! An enjoyable series!
Read
June 20, 2021I love everything mermaid related. This book made my heart smile with a love story in the middle of a war. I liked the pacing and the way gwen revealed who and what she was. If you are like me and love adult mermaid stories, this will quench your thirst, lol.
December 16, 2019
I am very much enjoying this series.
November 13, 2020
This book was wayyyyy better than book 1... where it took me 7 years and 3 forceful tries to finish book 1 it only took me 2 days to finish this book..
January 26, 2011
Siren’s Surrender by Devyn Quinn
Paranormal Romance -Feb. 1st, 2011
3 ½ stars
This is the 2nd installment of Devyn Quinn's Dark Tides, a mermaid series in which danger lurks for the Lonike sisters.
This book focuses on the middle sister, Gwen. Gwen, unlike her other sisters, has tried to deny her mermaid heritage. She wants to be more human but this denial of her true self brings consequences. Gwen’s troubles being when her hotel in Port Rock is visited by a mysterious government agent named Blake Whittaker.
Blake’s character reminded me of the X-Files because he investigates so-called paranormal events and explains them rationally. But Blake has a past in Port Rock: he is tired and doesn't want to return to his home town where his life was a misery. The painful memories soon make him question why he agreed to this assignment. When he meets the owner of the hotel where he is staying, he soon discovers that Gwen is related to the people who inhabit the area where unusual disturbances have occurred. Gwen offers to take him to meet them (So she can control what he sees). But as soon as he arrives, strange people attack, and he is forced to believe that the paranormal may be real. But who are these violent and strange people and what do they want? Blake must find the answers before it is too late.
This is an imaginative story. I liked the idea of an X-files type agent. My main difficulty with the book is that the plot wanders and has some gaping holes. For example, I wish Blake’s past had been explained more since it is not really resolved. I even wondered why the author brought it up since it never came into the story except for the very beginning. I kept thinking he would meet someone from his past, which would add more mystery to the story.
This book also involves a treasure hunt and the characters seemed to drift off a bit then. Because of this, the characters seemed a little bland except for the youngest sister, who is distracting. I was frustrated by the youngest sister because she keeps leaking information about her family’s mermaid heritage and even tells family secrets. Since she is so open, I kept wondering how her family had maintained their identities secret for so long. This story has a lot of potential. I really enjoyed the beginning when Blake comes to investigate, but once the mayhem begins, the story feels erratic.
This book is wildly original and creative but the plot is so chaotic that it is difficult to follow. Eventually, the plot makes it hard to become seriously involved in the main characters. I have read the authors book before and enjoyed them but perhaps this series has too many ideas that do not mesh well together.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Paranormal Romance -Feb. 1st, 2011
3 ½ stars
This is the 2nd installment of Devyn Quinn's Dark Tides, a mermaid series in which danger lurks for the Lonike sisters.
This book focuses on the middle sister, Gwen. Gwen, unlike her other sisters, has tried to deny her mermaid heritage. She wants to be more human but this denial of her true self brings consequences. Gwen’s troubles being when her hotel in Port Rock is visited by a mysterious government agent named Blake Whittaker.
Blake’s character reminded me of the X-Files because he investigates so-called paranormal events and explains them rationally. But Blake has a past in Port Rock: he is tired and doesn't want to return to his home town where his life was a misery. The painful memories soon make him question why he agreed to this assignment. When he meets the owner of the hotel where he is staying, he soon discovers that Gwen is related to the people who inhabit the area where unusual disturbances have occurred. Gwen offers to take him to meet them (So she can control what he sees). But as soon as he arrives, strange people attack, and he is forced to believe that the paranormal may be real. But who are these violent and strange people and what do they want? Blake must find the answers before it is too late.
This is an imaginative story. I liked the idea of an X-files type agent. My main difficulty with the book is that the plot wanders and has some gaping holes. For example, I wish Blake’s past had been explained more since it is not really resolved. I even wondered why the author brought it up since it never came into the story except for the very beginning. I kept thinking he would meet someone from his past, which would add more mystery to the story.
This book also involves a treasure hunt and the characters seemed to drift off a bit then. Because of this, the characters seemed a little bland except for the youngest sister, who is distracting. I was frustrated by the youngest sister because she keeps leaking information about her family’s mermaid heritage and even tells family secrets. Since she is so open, I kept wondering how her family had maintained their identities secret for so long. This story has a lot of potential. I really enjoyed the beginning when Blake comes to investigate, but once the mayhem begins, the story feels erratic.
This book is wildly original and creative but the plot is so chaotic that it is difficult to follow. Eventually, the plot makes it hard to become seriously involved in the main characters. I have read the authors book before and enjoyed them but perhaps this series has too many ideas that do not mesh well together.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
January 12, 2023
Living as a human but knowing that no matter how much she wishes she was normal, the heroine denies herself any powers than come from being a mermaid. She's never slept with a man because she could never trust anyone with her secret. The hero is a FBI agent who's in the sector of paranormal studies. He's in the small town to look into some electronic frequencies and a death. There he meets the heroine. Immediately after they reach the small island belonging to her family, they are attacked by the evil mermaids and all parties are severely injured. The heroine wakes up under the control of the US government. They're keeping all Mer fork under lock and key for study and experimentations. At first they are given special treatment. Their rooms aren't prisons or cages and they have as much freedom as a top secret bunker can afford. But it's clear that they are feared and treated as less the human but the doctors and the military involved. The hero is given a mission to get close to the heroine and gain her trust, something he does easily and without much remorse. But steadily, as predicted, the family begins to be less and less 'guests' and more as prisoners. The government is experimenting on the enemy Mer is horrible ways and soon the heroine finds herself in chains when she demonstrates her power. I really disliked the hero because he wasn't ignorant of the governments plans but did nothing to stop them until it was too late. He knew from the instant he found out what the heroine was that the FBI would imprison them. He also knew how his colleges felt about them and how the enemy Mer were treated. Of course things were going to be bad for the heroine and her family because it's obvious the humans are assholes who are afraid of anything different to them. So it's after the family are imprisoned and the heroine experimented on that he finally decides to help them. Took him long enough. Also, he lies to the heroine throughout the book. And for the most part I don't feel any remorse from him, even when he sleeps with the heroine and thinks about being with her, he lies about everything he knows. I'm sorry, what a scumbag to basically use a very insecure female like that for you're own gain. But at least feel sorry about it. The heroine went from an independent woman, strong and resilient though lacking confidence with herself to a puddle of mush. She has no control of her powers and has a tendency to cave in of herself when embarrassed. Overall, I didn't like the pacing with the story as most of the time the characters are just sitting in a bunker talking to themselves. And add that to the dislike of the hero's character and the heroines weakness, I thought this book was Meh at best.
Read
August 24, 2012I picked up Devyn Quinn's DARK TIDES trilogy to read in May when it was hard for me to concentrate on books with deeper plots. Someone who knew I liked mermaids gave me the books as a gift, not realizing that I'm not a big romance novel reader. When I was talking about how I was looking for a book that didn't make me think but took my mind off life, a co-worker jokingly recommended FIFTY SHADES OF GREY. While I didn't take him up on the advice, I did remember that I had a mermaid romance series sitting unread and decided to pull the books out once and for all. While the books are traditional romance novels, there's also an overarching fantasy plot revolving around mermaids that kept my interest.
Each of the books in the trilogy centers around one of the Lonike sisters, all of which are mermaids living among us as humans. As half-mer-babies are born, if they aren't given a soul-stone, they'll never be able to tap into their mer-powers and transform later in life. The Lonike sisters are among the last of the mermaids, and they all accept--or reject--their heritage in different ways. In the first novel, SIREN'S CALL, Tessa makes the discovery of a lifetime when she finds a wormhole that's been sealed off for centuries, one full of mermaids who have been banished from the human world. These mermaids are dangerous and with a path between the two worlds once again open, may spell the end for humanity.
I enjoyed the way Quinn developed mermaid lore in new and unexpected ways. The vicious mermaids live in a gritty world on the cusp of destruction and are desperate to escape, yet they view humans as inferior beings. At times, their methods were extreme, but these same scenes also enforced the image of a savage being that's not fully human, and let's face it: Mermaids aren't fully human. The deep sea can be a wild, unruly place, and it makes sense that mermaids are more animalistic, especially when their blood hasn't been as diluted with human blood over the centuries. I really liked the inclusion of a new species of sea-being in the third book (I won't spoil what here) and wish that element had evolved further and not been left for the very end.
There's enough lore and magical elements to create a fantasy world that maintains a reader's interest even if romance novels aren't a top genre of choice.
Each of the books in the trilogy centers around one of the Lonike sisters, all of which are mermaids living among us as humans. As half-mer-babies are born, if they aren't given a soul-stone, they'll never be able to tap into their mer-powers and transform later in life. The Lonike sisters are among the last of the mermaids, and they all accept--or reject--their heritage in different ways. In the first novel, SIREN'S CALL, Tessa makes the discovery of a lifetime when she finds a wormhole that's been sealed off for centuries, one full of mermaids who have been banished from the human world. These mermaids are dangerous and with a path between the two worlds once again open, may spell the end for humanity.
I enjoyed the way Quinn developed mermaid lore in new and unexpected ways. The vicious mermaids live in a gritty world on the cusp of destruction and are desperate to escape, yet they view humans as inferior beings. At times, their methods were extreme, but these same scenes also enforced the image of a savage being that's not fully human, and let's face it: Mermaids aren't fully human. The deep sea can be a wild, unruly place, and it makes sense that mermaids are more animalistic, especially when their blood hasn't been as diluted with human blood over the centuries. I really liked the inclusion of a new species of sea-being in the third book (I won't spoil what here) and wish that element had evolved further and not been left for the very end.
There's enough lore and magical elements to create a fantasy world that maintains a reader's interest even if romance novels aren't a top genre of choice.
December 30, 2011
The 2nd book in the Dark Tides series picks up a few months after the events from Siren's Call.
********possible plot spoilers ********
do not read this, if you have not read the 1st book, yet!
Gwen Lonike is the middle daughter of the 3 Lonike sisters, and she refuses to embrace her Mer heritage. She lives as a human, running a motel on the mainland coast near Mer Island where eldest Sister Tessa lives with her new husband Kenneth. Tessa had opened up a portal to the lost mermaid kingdom and accidentally freed it's dangerous queen.
Covert-ops agent Blake Whittaker is assigned to trail paranormal activity back in his hometown, and there's some bad memories associated from his childhoood he'd rather not re-live! When he meets the beautiful Gwen, he finds that he needs to stick this out, but he can't tell her his true mission.
The girls find themselves in trouble from 2 different sides... the Mer people who want to destroy them... and the government who wants to experiment on them as if they were lab animals!
Another good read with some interesting situations! I really like the Lonike sisters and the men they are starting to fall for! Love it when Blake finally makes a stand for this family, too!
********possible plot spoilers ********
do not read this, if you have not read the 1st book, yet!
Gwen Lonike is the middle daughter of the 3 Lonike sisters, and she refuses to embrace her Mer heritage. She lives as a human, running a motel on the mainland coast near Mer Island where eldest Sister Tessa lives with her new husband Kenneth. Tessa had opened up a portal to the lost mermaid kingdom and accidentally freed it's dangerous queen.
Covert-ops agent Blake Whittaker is assigned to trail paranormal activity back in his hometown, and there's some bad memories associated from his childhoood he'd rather not re-live! When he meets the beautiful Gwen, he finds that he needs to stick this out, but he can't tell her his true mission.
The girls find themselves in trouble from 2 different sides... the Mer people who want to destroy them... and the government who wants to experiment on them as if they were lab animals!
Another good read with some interesting situations! I really like the Lonike sisters and the men they are starting to fall for! Love it when Blake finally makes a stand for this family, too!
March 30, 2011
This is the second book in this series, but I had no difficulty catching up on the story, characters and previous story. The Lonicke sisters, Tessa, Gwen and Addison have were born and raised in Rock Point, Maine. They are also Mer, an entirely female race of, well obviously, mermaids. Gwen is the middle sister, and has submerged her Mer tendencies beneath years of denial, as she tries to convince herself she is completely human. Blake is an FBI agent within in the science division, who has been assigned to investigate a surge of magnetic energy coming from deep in the ocean. His investigation has led him to Little Mer Island and the Lonicke sisters.
Although there is a strong romantic thread in the story between Blake and Gwen, I found this to be more of a suspense/thriller work. There were secret agencies, conspiracies, Mer invasions, self discoveries, and just all kinds of action going on. It was a very enjoyable and sometimes nail biting ride. I particularly liked Blake's evolution in this book, from a cold, repressed agent to a burgeoning compassionate person with the strength to fight for what he knows is right. There was also a theme of sacrifice for the greater good which added a sobering touch of realism. There is an HEA in this book, but there are also some hard knocks taken. I REALLY liked this author's style. Sometimes happy, happy, joy, joy, just makes me sick, sick.
Although there is a strong romantic thread in the story between Blake and Gwen, I found this to be more of a suspense/thriller work. There were secret agencies, conspiracies, Mer invasions, self discoveries, and just all kinds of action going on. It was a very enjoyable and sometimes nail biting ride. I particularly liked Blake's evolution in this book, from a cold, repressed agent to a burgeoning compassionate person with the strength to fight for what he knows is right. There was also a theme of sacrifice for the greater good which added a sobering touch of realism. There is an HEA in this book, but there are also some hard knocks taken. I REALLY liked this author's style. Sometimes happy, happy, joy, joy, just makes me sick, sick.
November 25, 2011
Siren's Surrender is the second installment of the Dark Tides mermaid trilogy by Devyn Quinn. This one is quite different from the first novel, due to the fact that humans discover the existence of the Mer, and the mermaid sisters must deal with the realization that their lives may not belong to them anymore.
Unlike the first book, this one did not have as much mermaid action as the first. There were only two scenes, both brief, of the girls in their mer forms. This book focused more on the discovery of the Mer, and how they dealed with the G-men who had them quarantined. Basically, it reminded me of the last half of Splash, in which Madison the mermaid is caught by scientists, and then it's a race against the clock to save her. That's kind of like what happened here.
I do have to admit that I love the villain in this series. Queen Magaera is one evil mer queen, and she doesn't care who gets hurt along the way: she wants power, and lots of it. The actions she commits at the very end make me feel like the Lonike sisters are going to brace for an epic battle in the next book. I can't wait to see how the sisters deal with the Queen for good in the final novel.
All in all, it was another great addition to the Dark Tides trilogy, and I certainly can't wait to see how everything ends with the next book, Siren's Desire, which is Addison's story, and will be released next February.
Unlike the first book, this one did not have as much mermaid action as the first. There were only two scenes, both brief, of the girls in their mer forms. This book focused more on the discovery of the Mer, and how they dealed with the G-men who had them quarantined. Basically, it reminded me of the last half of Splash, in which Madison the mermaid is caught by scientists, and then it's a race against the clock to save her. That's kind of like what happened here.
I do have to admit that I love the villain in this series. Queen Magaera is one evil mer queen, and she doesn't care who gets hurt along the way: she wants power, and lots of it. The actions she commits at the very end make me feel like the Lonike sisters are going to brace for an epic battle in the next book. I can't wait to see how the sisters deal with the Queen for good in the final novel.
All in all, it was another great addition to the Dark Tides trilogy, and I certainly can't wait to see how everything ends with the next book, Siren's Desire, which is Addison's story, and will be released next February.
June 14, 2011
This was the first novel I have read by Devyn Quinn and while I didn't love it, I definitely liked elements of it. For starters, this is the second book in her Dark Tides series and I had not read the first novel when I read 'Siren's Surrender'. I was able to pick up the general story line from the first novel throughout my reading. After finishing the novel, I'm wondering if I would have enjoyed it more if I had read the first novel first. For example, the relationship between the three sisters wasn't really explored and I think that would have strengthened the story line. However, I wonder if this was established more in the first novel and therefore wouldn't have needed to be elaborated on it this book. I also really liked the mermaid mythology but again would have liked to read more about it. I felt like there were lots of things like this in the book, ideas and characters that were introduced but never really elaborated on. An interesting idea and some fun characters, however I was left feeling like something was missing.
March 14, 2011
I enjoyed this one more than I anticipated. I love mermaid stories and while the romance was fairly lackluster, I loved that I could see a romance building versus the common theme of books right now is to hop them into bed immediately or the soul/fated/destiny-mated stories. This book relied on the story - not sex and I loved that.
Oh, I didn't read the first one and only felt like I might have missed a tiny bit but not enough to ruin my enjoyment of this story. I have no plans to go back simply because the blurb on the first book, Siren's Call sounds as if it will rely heavily on sex. I only hope the third one does not as I want to read it.
Oh, I didn't read the first one and only felt like I might have missed a tiny bit but not enough to ruin my enjoyment of this story. I have no plans to go back simply because the blurb on the first book, Siren's Call sounds as if it will rely heavily on sex. I only hope the third one does not as I want to read it.
February 26, 2016
One thing's for sure, this novel did not go the way I expected it to.
Most of it in a bad way.
Gwen Lonike seemed like a total Mary Sue, and she was just really annoying in general. And sure, there were plenty of action, but the main characters weren't even in the center of the action which took away most of the excitement and just disengaged me from the story.
In a good way, though, this book really surprised me when it escalated and presented me an action-packed introduction. But what was really disappointing there was that it didn't escalate, it just further descended. The ending was also quite disappointing and anti-climactic.
Most of it in a bad way.
Gwen Lonike seemed like a total Mary Sue, and she was just really annoying in general. And sure, there were plenty of action, but the main characters weren't even in the center of the action which took away most of the excitement and just disengaged me from the story.
In a good way, though, this book really surprised me when it escalated and presented me an action-packed introduction. But what was really disappointing there was that it didn't escalate, it just further descended. The ending was also quite disappointing and anti-climactic.
July 8, 2013
One of a kind series-won't find one like it and that is what I look for in books since I do read alot. This one is next part in world of Port Rock Maine were everyone isn't as they seem to be. Mr. Blake is sent to investigate a recent event and in this one he meets Gwen. Looking for adventure filled with fantasy, bad guys, and some romance thrown in there this is it. Also couldn't help feel for them when they are all under guard and how would we feel in this situation. Great job here and ready for the next one.
January 21, 2016
The second book in the Dark Tide series is another winner. I absolutely adore the the fantasy elements of Quinn's world building.
The romance in this novel seemed a bit forced. The author has such a great background story going on that it felt like the romance was forced and it was a bit too "love-at-first-sight." But the characters were true and the hero isn't an alpha male, so bonus points there.
The romance in this novel seemed a bit forced. The author has such a great background story going on that it felt like the romance was forced and it was a bit too "love-at-first-sight." But the characters were true and the hero isn't an alpha male, so bonus points there.
January 18, 2013
One of the books I won the Christmas before last, and while I'm not a huge fan of shapeshifters in general, I do have a lot of affection for mermaid stories. Sadly this managed to incorporate a lot of the tropes of shifter stories that I don't get on with. People who like that sort of thing may well love this series.
March 22, 2014
Not as good as the first one but I think it was a little more frustrating to read due to the fact that they are locked up for most of it. Also government conspiracy themes and area 51 just don't intrigue me as much as how mermaids would function in their natural state and not in a government compound.
June 9, 2011
It took me a few pages to get into the story but things sped up. Once I got in the story it went quickly. I have not read the first one which would have been helpful but this one is a stand alone story too.
February 26, 2013
This was an alright book. I enjoyed it, but I found the characters a bit bland. Yeah, it's probably how I would have acted if I'd been taken in by the FBI, but I expect the characters in a book to have a bit more spunk, and not just kind of shrug and accept what's happening.
October 14, 2016
This one has much less sex than the last one, which is a relief. There is more of a plot to it. I enjoyed it enough. The writing's not great. I'll probably never read this series again, but it is interesting.
September 16, 2014
3.5 stars. I liked this book better than I did the first one. There was more action and better character development. The story played out and it was not too sappy. I had debated whether to get the third book, and I am leaning toward yes.
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