Curse of the Nautilus

by Ralynn Kimie

And he didn’t just break my heart. He shattered it. He tried to pick up the pieces and put them back together, but only dropped it again when the shards drew blood.

A modernized Hawaiian mythology-inspired fairy tale of a Sea Nymph and the Prince of the Atlantic.

There was once a sea witch with powers that rivaled Poseidon himself.

When she challenged him for his throne, he killed her, and her magic was locked away in a nautilus shell lost in the dark ocean depths.

Sought after by many, none had the power to wield it.

Until now.

Villains are not born. They're made.

Anela is a 26-year-old sea nymph in Hawai'i. Still nursing a broken heart from a former flame, she keeps others at an arm's length away so no one can hurt her again. Her life is turned upside down when her mother brings home a man brought to the Hawaiian Islands by raging storm, whose presence in the Pacific angers the shark gods, but pleases her younger sister, Malia. Hi'iaka, her mother, insists on protecting him from them and Anela is determined to find out why.

Triton is a 28-year-old prince of the Atlantic Ocean. Charming and handsome, yet arrogant and self-serving, he only really has one goal on his mind: get back home by any means necessary. When his plan goes south and someone is severely hurt, he reconsiders that he may be stuck as a land dweller forever. Forced to be in the company of beings he hates most, he has to stop playing life like a game before someone gets killed.

Warnings: Book also contains sexual assault, r*pe (mentioned), manipulation, violence, open door sexual themes, and aquatic animal violence.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Mythology, Romantasy, Ebooks, Fantasy Romance, Retellings

428 pages, Paperback

Published May 22, 2024

About the author

INSTAGRAM: rayekimie

Ralynn Kimie is an independent author with her own publishing imprint known as Steely Co. Publishing. Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, she is a mixing pot of different ethnic backgrounds, but primarily Japanese and Irish.

She’s autistic and has ODD, ADHD, and Depression.

Ralynn Kimie is an advocate for Suicide Prevention, Asexual Awareness, Body Positivity, and Operation Santa.

Reviews

[lynds library · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the absolute pleasure of having an early copy sent to me and for that, I am so thankful!

I absolutely adored this from start to finish and although there are some heavier topics everything is handled with the care and diligence it deserves from the author. Trigger warnings are super clear and I would definitely recommend giving them a once over before you dig in.

I was so so beyond excited by this story! I absolutely loved the mythology, the way the retelling is woven and the characters are written so well too. It feels like a true fairytale for adults, this book is so so special. One of the top books of the year for me FOR SURE. 🖤

[Tracey Hazel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Raye’s writing before but I love her writing this genre! I could not put it down. I really enjoyed how she made us fall in love with the “villain” and made us cheer for her! Were her actions righteous? No. Did they make sense? Absolutely 💯. We truly never know the motivations that drive people to do the things they do and I loved that message. I NEED more of these characters! You’re definitely going to want to snatch this book up when it comes out!

[Adreanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curse of the Nautilus is an amazing villain origin story. The world-building, characters, magic, and overall plot were so well written I fell in love with this book instantly. It is such a unique take on a story a fair amount of people know about, with twists and turns, heartbreaking love and loss, it had my heart in a wreck while still hoping for the best ending. The relationship between Anlea and Triton is so back and forth but I still wanted to root for them. This book definitely casts a light on how actions have consequences and how those actions can drastically change a person. I am so glad I was able to read this book, it will have a special place in my heart as I've never felt so strongly while reading a book before.

Thank you, NetGalley and Steely Co. Publishing for giving me the honor of receiving an ARC for my honest opinion.

[Brooke Webster · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for this ARC.

This book was such a new twist on the story of The Little Mermaid. It’s interesting to think about the villain’s perspective and their role in the story. This retelling did a great job at exploring the backstory and also adding unique elements to make it stand out.

*Please check all trigger warnings prior to reading*

The Spice:
3/5

The Good:
•The unique elements of the Hawaiian mythology was such an interesting twist and made the story stand out.
•I really enjoyed the comparison of the sirens to the sharks. I enjoyed the journey of trying to figure out who really was the villain of the story.
•The addition of the different species and creatures was done in a way that was easy to follow.
•The characterization of Anela and Triton. I felt that I was learning and growing with them throughout the book.

The Not Good:
•I wish we spent more time fleshing out Hi’iaka’s relationship with her daughters. I also would have enjoyed another chapter away with Pele.
•I feel like things with Brooke were just kind of left. There was build up about her having the prophecy and then nothing. This is something that could be explored if there was another book.

This is a book that I’m not going to be able to stop thinking about for a while.

[Lexy · Rating 2 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️

Thank you netgalley and steely co. Publishing for the gifted arc in exchange for an honest review.

The curse of the nautilus is a villain origin story that ties Hawaiian and Greek mythology together. I was really drawn to the idea of this book and find it very unique! Kimie did a wonderful job of combining gods across Hawaiian and Greek mythology to create a unique world.

Unfortunately, the execution didn’t do it for me. I found the pacing to be off and the world building wasn’t quite there for me. I would’ve loved to see more explanations for certain things (ex. Hi’iaka and pele’s conversation about anela). The plot didn’t really develop until the last quarter of the book and there wasn’t a ton of build up to it. I also thought the amount of SA/r*pe was too much. It was constantly being mentioned and justified by certain characters. It’s important to bring light to these topics, but equally important to be sensitive of these topics and not use it as a main plot point.

I really disliked all of the characters. Hi’iaka was a TERRIBLE mother and I still don’t understand why she encouraged what happened to anela (this should’ve been explained). Anela didn’t have much depth and I was very confused about her falling for triton, despite his actions. Triton was just awful all around.

The romance was also very sudden. They hated each other and then all of a sudden decided to bang and became super attached. They truly didn’t know each other at all. Normally I loveeee a hate to love trope, but this just wasn’t it for me. Also, triton going after both of the sisters and them being okay with it? Weird.

I would like to note that these are just my opinions! There are plenty of wonderful reviews, so check them out also to see if this is your cup of tea!

[Kaitlyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

I got this copy from netgally and was intrigued by the blurb and the beautiful cover so I thought this seems like something I'd like, I however did not love it..


I will start with things I did like about this book

-the mythology/gods, Im a huge lover of Greek and thought I'd love to read about the mix

- the variety of species (shark shifters, sirens, cecaelian)

- the plot idea

- the world


There really was a lot of neat things however I felt that's where it ended FOR ME.. this book just couldn't keep my attention, I couldn't stand the characters, they didn't seem to have much personality and just annoyed me to the point of they were real I would walk away from them ..Anela was the one I liked the most I think and even she was nothing I'll remember, the 'relationship' between her and Triton irked me, they didn't really seem to have chemistry it was more lust and the fact he went from one to the other with what seemed like no care at all. I love Greek mythology and found Poseidon to be kinda week and ick, I know his stories relates to what he did in the book however for being a god I kinda expected more..


I just found a lot of the book was slow but it had promise.


I did however enjoy the ending of the book.

If you like different mythology, cool species and a really interesting world then this may be right up your alley!

[Kasey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a modernized Hawaiian mythology-inspired fairy tale of a Sea Nymph and the Prince of the Atlantic.
I really enjoyed this retelling, and it is one of the best villain origin stories I’ve read so far. It was a little darker (which I enjoy), but it was unique and well written. I love Raye’s writing and will read anything she writes. She has a way with words, and it just flows so well. The world-building and characters in this story are a perfect example of that. When you read her writing it is so descriptive you feel like you’re watching a movie and not reading a book. I liked the spin on this and I hope to see another book from it!

[Amber's Book Cave · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Curse of the Nautilus" offers a unique twist on the origins of Ursula the sea witch, merging Hawaiian and Greek myths into a captivating narrative. Ralynn Kimie's masterful world-building and character development draw you in, portraying a complex and nuanced villain. Anela’s journey from a sea nymph to a feared witch is both heart-wrenching and compelling, highlighting how repeated betrayals and hardships can lead to darkness.

The relationship between Anela and Triton is intricate, marked by misunderstandings and deep emotional struggles. The book's exploration of Hawaiian mythology is refreshing, though it leaves you yearning for more details about Hi’iaka and Pele. Be aware of sensitive content, as the story includes themes of sexual assault. Despite this, Curse of the Nautilus remains a powerful read for fans of mythological retellings.

Thank you, NetGalley, Steely Co. Publishing, and Ralynn Kimie, for the ARC. All opinions are my own. 🖤

[jas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curse of the Nautilus is so different from my usual read and I’m so happy I gave it a chance and dove right in. It had a captivating plot, twists, turns, sacrifice, tension, spice, revenge and took me on a Hawaiian roller coaster ride *plays the song from lilo & stitch*

Don’t think romance book, think villain origin story. We’ve all watched Maleficent’s villain origin story, now get ready for Ursula’s, but with a Hawaiian goddess spin-off. This book had me rooting for the villain and left a long lasting impact on me aka finishing it at 3 in the morning and crying, to the point I’ll never look at The Little Mermaid the same again.

Anela and Triton can both be seen as the admirable older siblings, but I really felt for their younger siblings Malia and Benthesikyme who often felt overshadowed by them. It wasn’t hard to get attached to the characters even when they do something incredibly inconvenient.. especially Triton *insert eye roll emoji here* homeboy really.. oooh. He’s lucky he’s hot, I guess.
The connection between Anela and Triton as star-crossed lovers was written so well, it pulled at my heart strings. There was tension and spice scenes between them, but this isn’t about romance, this was an empowering story that really makes you root for the “villain” by the end of it and I’ll recommend it to anyone!
As always, check the trigger warnings (even though I don’t, oops)

Thank you Ralynn Kimie for making this book, I definitely think it should be made into a movie! I would DEFINITELY watch this if it gets adapted into a movie!

P.S. I may be bias, but I’ve never liked Ariel’s dad lol

[Allie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The backstory/history of The Little Mermaid that you didn’t know you needed until the little girl in you grew up.
A brilliant twist on the classic characters of a story we know and a love.
Just go read it, you won’t regret it, it fact you will thank me, you will thank Raye for writing it, you will kick yourself for sleeping on it.

Just check your trigger warnings.

[Ashley (andtheniwasbookish) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book. My heart is furious and it's breaking, and it has been through a JOURNEY. I absolutely loved it

This book is a very unique twist on Ursela the sea witch, King Triton, and how they both came to be. First few chapters, I wasn't sure to think, wasn't sure where it was going. Ralynn does an amazing job at building her characters and the world. No one is wholly good or bad, nothing is wholly black or white.

You want it to be a love story, and maybe at parts it is, but it's a story of what can truly build a villain. Even if that villain tried at every step of the way to do the right thing, and what can happen when they are only pushed down time and time again.

I caution on triggers, there are definitely some to watch out for.

Overall: I recommend this book!

[Ashley DiMatteo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has the honor of being my first ARC, and I really enjoyed it!! Such a different take by using a combination of Hawaiian culture with sea god Mythology. Super excited for this book to be published and everyone to enjoy it!

[Lauren Bruce · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of Curse of the Nautilus in exchange for an honest review.

Unfortunately, I had a lot of issues with this book and I was kind of surprised to see it had such a high rating. I was really excited about the ideas I read in the blurb. It's a mixing of cultures and mythologies surrounding gods and goddesses of water. We have Poseidon, Triton, Ceto, Hi'iaka/Ursula, Benthesikyme, and Kāmohoali"I. There are sirens and sharks and various other sea creatures. Some of the descriptions (particularly the underwater palace made of lava) are absolutely beautiful. But, in my opinions, the negatives outweighed the positives.

I hated pretty much all of the characters. Triton and Poseidon were awful. Triton was a weak, naive, privileged character. Poseidon was a violent SA'er, a perv, and a horrible father. I didn't get a family vibe from Anela's family at all. She swung wildly between judging her sister, treating her like her only personality traits were being naive and boy crazy and then wanting to protect her. The mother left for the majority of the book and felt like she was barely part of the story. The best friend felt irrelevant and unnecessary.

The "love story" was so quick and I didn't like that he jumped directly from her to her sister. I also felt like they sort of skipped right over the sirens luring people to the water to SA and kill them. The MC brings it up several times to talk about how wrong it is but then she sort of just gets over it because he's attractive?? Even after he uses his song on her own sister?? We see a bit of guilt and contemplation from Triton on the subject, but he really doesn't change at all in the end. His character growth was basically a parabola.

I felt really uncomfortable with how prevalent the themes of SA and the actual on screen descriptions of it were. I don't feel that they were all necessary. There is definitely something to be said for discussing the themes in a tactful way. But, I feel like this was just on screen assault over and over for shock factor and I didn't like it.

This book had a lot of promise. The ideas were spectacular and the lore was really cool. It was a very quick, easy read. But, I did feel that for all of the very adult themes, the book read kind of juvenile. The dialogue was a bit amateurish and there were several things that repeated themselves and weren't relevant (like Anela always having iced coffee and it getting mentioned like six times?). All that, combined with my opinions on the SA content made me give this book a 2 star rating.

[Adrianna Heaney-velu · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Curse of the Nautilus,” by Ralynn Kimie

Triton, Prince of the Atlantic, is banished from his lands by his father to the Pacific Ocean, all because he saved his sister’s life. A goddess saves Triton from being eaten by sharks when he was banished. Now the goddess’ daughter Anela has the babysit the obnoxious prince until he gave get his trident and go back to his sea.

OMG!!!!!!!! I was blown away by how much I absolutely loved this book. I can’t even write barely anything because I feel like even the smallest information might spoil it. I loved the characters so much! They were annoying and self-centered at the beginning but they all (almost all) did a 180 by the end of the book. The tension and bickering between Triton and Anela were perfect. The story line was flawless. I wish I could go back a re-read this book for the first time (I will be re-reading it even without the first-time effect). 5 out of 5 stars, this is one of the best books I’ve read in a while. Do check the trigger warnings because this book was a lot of traumas.

-Hawaiian Mythology
-Sea Nymph
-Witch
-Magic
-Multi POV
-Enemies To Lovers
-Greek Mythology
-Forced Proximity

[Kim Layman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whoa…just, whoa. Contempt to lust to destruction in a beautifully, tragic villain origin story. And I am once again blown away by how brilliant of a writer Ralynn is. She flawlessly blends mythology with modern, and creates characters we care about. She morphs a shallow prince into one with humbled open eyes, and a strong, female lead into a broken shell. The attraction between Anela and Triton feels desperate and lustful…abandoning reason for stolen moments. Their back and forth is reminiscent of watching a relationship you know will end badly, even if the ones in it do care for one another. I also loved the development of both Triton’s, and Anela’s-both of which are trying to step out of their older sibling’s shadows, and realizing it may cost them greatly.

What I was not prepared for was how traumatic Anela’s transformation was going to be. It was gutwrenching, but completely believable-written in a way that breaks the reader’s heart.

I loved everything about this book. It was a fantastic take on the Sea Witch’s origins.

[Starflakes · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review 🐚
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This review is going to be spoiler free. And is also my birthday gift to myself.

Ralynn Kimie tossed me a line with a hook. So I took the bait and ate it (a little fishing pun, perfect for the theme of this book.) And it was such a pleasure to be part of this ARC team. I couldn’t stop reading this book. I was on the edge of my seat for parts of it, crying for others. I wished so much for a HEA, so much it hurt.

This book is a Sea Witch Origin story and a darn good one at that. Multi-person POV, but very easy to follow. A beautiful merging of Hawaiian and Greek mythology. The story starts with Hi’iaka dancing hula on a beach, I had chicken skin (that’s how you know it’s good), where she receives Triton, Prince to the Atlantic Sea. Then this story starts to take you on a trip of love and pain (so much pain!).

My only wish is, that Ralynn makes more in this series following the merging of Hawaiian mythology along with others. Bravo!! And thank you for having me on this journey with you Ralynn 🌊

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review to come! 🐚

(FINAL REVIEW:)

This was an interesting modern spin on the origin story of the sea witch from The Little Mermaid tale with wonderful inclusions of Hawaiian mythology. 🌺

The story follows Anela who is the daughter of the goddess of hula, Hi’iaka. She’s a sea nymph with the ability to transform into an octopus from the chest down. Her gradual transformation into the notorious sea witch was an interesting take on the character, but I wasn’t the biggest fan of the use of r@p€ to show for her gradual descent into villainy. 😣

Her and Triton’s relationship was an interesting plot that I quite enjoyed, their continued decision to not talk about things not only led to a weird miscommunication that somehow got the message across to each other, but I found myself rather annoyed with it. 😐

I loved the use of Hawaiian mythology in this book. The only thing I do find myself wishing is for more of a focus on it for the book. Hi’iaka has a wonderful reveal that’s not really fully explored, and her curse is also left unexplained. I also just wanted to see more of Pele as a literal fiery protective older sister. 🔥

In general, I felt like I was left with more questions than answers, and I would really suggest readers who might be sensitive to sexual assault (and rather descriptive descriptions of it) to decide whether or not to pick it up. Big thank you goes to NetGalley and Steely Hearts Press for accepting my request to read in exchange for an honest review and to the author for crafting a modern Hawaiian twist to this villainous character. 🐙

Publication date: May 22!

Overall 3.5/5 ⭐️

[Megan O'Brien · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars!!

A villain origin story! A little mermaid retelling! Hawaiian mythology!! Greek mythology!! This book is a perfect amalgamation of all kinds of fun things!!

I love a villain origin story because I always go into it thinking...hmm not me I could never sympathize and then I walk out every single time and I'm like MAN if that was my circumstances, I could totally also go all villain on them. In this case, into the sea witch we all know and love and hate...Ursula, but with a Hawaiian twist.

Anela is the daughter of a Hawaiian goddess and a mortal, gifted with some special abilites (including turning into an octopus-like sea nymph). One fateful morning, her mother brings home Triton, siren Prince of the Atlantic, who has been banished from his ocean and is in danger just by existing anywhere near water. Mysterious things are happening in the water and on the land, and the strong pull the two have to each other brings them to helping each other try to protect their respective loved ones. However, not all is what it seems- and a mysterious shell filled with rage, horror, and all things bad in the world is being sought by a number of different parties- and can change the fate of the world as they know it.

This was such an incredible read, from the beautiful mythological stories interwoven to Anela's (rightful) descent into the sea witch. The author describes it best in her author's note at the end- this story brings Triton to understanding, but Anela to spiraling. I absolutely ate this up- and couldn't help by getting excited by all the fun little little mermaid references!!

Thank you so much to Ralynn Kimie and NetGalley for a chance to read this in exchange for an honest review. Check this out in May!

[Inês Serra · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Villains are not born. They’re made.”

My God guys, this was intense. I love cute romances and happy endings, so I confess my heart got a bit tight at the end. This is not an easy story (check the trigger-warnings before reading!), there’s so much injustice in the life of these characters, it gets to the point of being revolting. The FMC is the daughter of an Hawaiian Goddess and she’s a good person, really. She gave everything she had without hoping for much in return. While others took everything se had, in such a revolting way.
The story is captivating and easy to read, even though at some point the plot gets a bit heavy… I recommend you give it a try!

Meu Deus malta, isto foi intenso. Eu adoro romances fofinhos e finais felizes e confesso que o meu coração se apertou ali no fim.
Esta história não é fácil (verifiquem os trigger-warnings antes de a lerem!), há tanta injustiça na vida destas personagens, que chega a ser revoltante. A personagem principal é filha de uma Deusa Havaiana e é uma boa pessoa, é mesmo. Deu tudo o que tinha sem esperar nada em troca. Enquanto outros tiraram tudo o que ela tinha, de forma revoltante.
A história é cativante e fácil de ler, apesar do seu conteúdo ser bastante pesado a partir de dada altura… recomendo!

TW:
sexual assault
r*pe (mentioned)
manipulation
violence
open door sexual themes
aquatic animal violence.

Thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity!

[tasya ☾ · Rating 5 out of 5]

"so much i wanted to forget, but so much rage i wanted to hold on to." 🔱🌟

first of all, huge thanks to the author for the gifted copy 🤍🧜‍♀️🐚🪼🌊🫧

curse of the nautilus is a villain origin story that doubles as a modernized hawaiian myth inspired fairy tale about a sea nymph and the prince of atlantic.

the nautilus in this story isn't just a shell. it's so much more—a vessel filled with rage, danger, and a history that's deeply intertwined with the plot. its presence looms large over the story, adding an incredible depth and sense of peril to the entire narrative.

the characters are so well-developed and multifaceted. anela, the sea nymph, is brave, smart, and calculating. her journey is not just a physical adventure but an emotional odyssey that will grip your heart. like for real i just want to HUG HER 😭❤️‍🩹

the other characters are equally compelling, each bringing their own unique strengths and vulnerabilities that make the story so rich and engaging. the complex dynamics and relationships raye weaves throughout the story are nothing short of mesmerizing.

the story explores profound themes of courage, resilience, family, love and revenge. these themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding layers of meaning and resonance that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, Ralynn Kimie, and Steely Co. Publishing for letting me read and review this ARC!

My rating is 3.5/5
This book was my first ARC ever, and it was very good! The Hawaiian mythology was interesting to read and I loved how the different mythologies co-existed in this novel. The writing was fantastic and I think this author has definitely established a name for themselves with this book.
I docked a couple points because I was not a fan of Triton's character. His character development towards being a "better person" felt forced and I did not sympathize with him or his growth. I also felt like Anela's character shift happened like a switch was flipped, which was not realistic to the things she had experienced. Because of the character shortfallings, I felt like their chemistry missed the mark for me. It felt uncomfortable and impractical based on the happenings throughout the story.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, it kept me intrigued and I wanted to know what happened next!

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wowowow. This is a an extremely dark take on Ursula and the little Mermaid and I loved every second of it. The prince of the Atlantic and a broken hearted sea nymph.... yes, please!

This is a villain origin story unlike any other I have read -- it takes place primarily in Hawaii, both in the ocean and on land. I found the mix of Greek and Hawaiian mythology to be very interesting and all of the characters have complicated family dynamics.

While the author provides beautiful descriptions of the ocean, sea, land and all of the creatures, she also does a great job moving the story along at a nice pace.

I really hope we get the continuation of this story, soon! Thank you to Netgalley and Ralynn Kimie for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.

P.S. It is super thoughtful that both a closed door and open door version were offered. Check the trigger warnings.

[Kristen Tougas · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fascinating villain origin story of Ursela! The book contains a mix of lore from Greek gods, Hawaiian gods, plus some hints at the story of The Little Mermaid, of course. This combination made for a unique fantasy world and interesting lore. The book is mostly set in modern day Hawaii, where Prince Triton of the Atlantic washes up on the shore of Oahu and is found by a Hawaiian goddess. While fantasy and romantasy books are getting more popular, I truly feel like we are missing out on more mermaid/siren stories, so I love that about this book!

This is a dark fantasy book and contains multiple scenes of sexual assault and violence towards animals. Please review other trigger warnings before reading.

Thank you to Steely Co. Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with a free ARC of this book in exchange for my review.

[christinac_reads · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF at 28%

I struggled most with the dual POV. Not cause it's dual POV but cause Triton, the MMC is of a people that think rape is a normal and inherent part of who they are. There's frequent justification of inter-species rape and frequent thoughts about sexual assault from an arrogant and very entitled male character. Just the amount of SA and rape was far too much and far too justified for my tastes, especially the way it seems to be used as the basis for the potential of character building and as central plot points.

Overall, the rest of the characters presented were highly unlikeable to me. Anela read as a foot-stomping teenager and the younger sister was one dimensionally a boy obsessed ditz. Perhaps later on in the novel these characters grow? I kept hoping for as I was reading more but ultimately decided that this wasn't for me.

[MiraelGrinna · Rating 2 out of 5]

The idea of this book was quiet interesting. It tells a story of how a villain can be created and why it all had to happen.

Firstly I would like to say what i enjoyed:
Very interesting idea of a plot (unfortunately it was not done that well in the end in my opinion)
I really liked the gods, the setting
Some characters were likeable(some were not like Triton).

But there are negatives. The love was not portrayed that well and it was really fast. Too many sexual things that were unnecessary. I also think that the author did not focus on the plot that much which is a shame.

Anyway, some of you may find it interesting so you can try this book.

[Kenai Alvares · Rating 4 out of 5]

That was certainly a ride. I finished it much faster than I was expecting to, as it took a bit for it to hook me, but once it did there was no turning around. The characters were interesting and I enjoyed seeing how they played off one another. The blending of Hawaiian and Greek mythology was also quite fascinating and I thought, handled fairly well.

The igniting conflict ends almost too easily, though in the context of the story, I understand why. It just feels, by the end of it, less of a proper plot-line and more of a plot device. Ultimately, it seems a bit like Triton really didn't learn anything from what he did, though there are certainly hints that he might've. I'm not sure that's tied up as well as I'd like, I think is what I'm getting at, but I also am not sure it could've been handled better given the way events fell.

I also kind of found the little tie-ins to The Little Mermaid and its sequel fascinating. My mind kept finding things to link them together and being tickled at the connections. They were probably purposeful, and honestly that makes it all the better.

Overall, a solid read, well-handled. Do be mindful of the content warnings, and enjoy the trip.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for a review.

This was described as a villain origin story, and boy did it deliver on that front. Anela was an interesting main character to get behind, and my girl was justified in the decisions she made for sure. I found all of the characters interesting and compelling, and there is certainly no clear hero in this story. In terms of storyline and pacing, I enjoyed the first half of this book more than the second half because the character and world building was so interesting. The pacing at the end felt like we were racing to the finish, but nonetheless, I enjoyed. The tension and darkness worked well together.

Content warning for on page sexual assault, which happens twice during the book.

[Rikka Kang · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun read and an interesting play on pre-little mermaid ocean dynamics. We get to see the life of a young Triton facing consequences of his actions, yet how does his current predicament interweave with his father, Poseidon's past indiscretion.

I really enjoyed Kimie's writing and boy does this story pick up in the second half. One second you are rooting for one character and next, another comes in for surprise feels... the spice was appropriate and not exaggerated. There is some trigger spots, so check that before you read.. but overall I enjoyed this read immensely.

[Brooke Thacker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this book moments ago and my mind is on overload but I want to first say I absolutely love the authors writing style and didn’t want to put the book down! I read it so quickly and really really hope there will be a book two as I don’t think the story is complete.

This story was so different from anything I’ve ever read before but I devoured it! It makes me look at The Little Mermaid differently now. No one is 100% good or bad and you never truly know what drove someone to be the way that they are. The author does such a good job of showing you the good and bad in people.

She wrote the characters so perfectly and made you understand them better and fall in love with them.

The world building and detail were also incredible and makes me want more of it. Shark boys, sirens, dolphins and more, it was all so fascinating to read!

I highly recommend this book!

Thank you NetGalley, Steely Co. publishing and Ralynn Kimie for the arc!

[Bellasbooklife · Rating 2 out of 5]

Received as an ARC from NetGalley last year but read on KU a year later.

It was a truly interesting take on a story and not the more usual hero story. I like the Greek mythology and the world building. I just wished there could been a bit more focus on the world building!

The romance was a bit rushed, one second they hated each other the next they banged.

The characters overall was not really likable and felt childish. Poseidon felt weak and not ”big and strong”. Triton was just big no no.