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ashs_bookshelf's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Content Warnings
Moderate: Toxic relationship, Drug use, Emotional abuse, Gaslighting, Domestic abuse, and Physical abuse
adventure_in_books's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Domestic abuse
jalialynn's review against another edition
2.75
This book is a little mermaid retelling which, when i saw that i was so excited!! the little mermaid is one of my favorite disney movie, so i thought i’d love this but this book just fell flat for me.
There were things that i liked about this book. I really liked the magic system and how it was more of multiverse thing i thought that was really cool. I also love how the cultural aspect was a big part of this book. The whole concept of this book was really good.
This book was really fast paced in a way that i just felt like i couldn’t connect to the character and it was just scene after scene just to get to the end point. The book was fast paced but just also felt so slow at the same time.
Thank You Netgalley & the publishers for a copy of the audiobook for an honest review.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, Death, and Domestic abuse
bread_loaf_star's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
3,75 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
The book delivers an action-packed narrative with fast-paced fight scenes that, at times, leave room for a more immersive experience. The Filipino mythological creatures introduced lack detailed enough descriptions, hindering my ability to vividly envision them. The exploration of an abusive relationship adds a layer of depth, instead of glorifying it as many other books do, it showed how horrible and the unseen sides can be. The later romance came across as less convincing. On a positive note, the magic system is intriguing, and the inclusion of research as a navigation tool adds a refreshing element to the storytelling. Overall, it's a fascinating blend of a Little Mermaid retelling with Filipino mythology, offering a unique perspective despite some areas that could benefit from further development.
Thank you #netgalley for providing me with the audiobook in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own!
The book delivers an action-packed narrative with fast-paced fight scenes that, at times, leave room for a more immersive experience. The Filipino mythological creatures introduced lack detailed enough descriptions, hindering my ability to vividly envision them. The exploration of an abusive relationship adds a layer of depth, instead of glorifying it as many other books do, it showed how horrible and the unseen sides can be. The later romance came across as less convincing. On a positive note, the magic system is intriguing, and the inclusion of research as a navigation tool adds a refreshing element to the storytelling. Overall, it's a fascinating blend of a Little Mermaid retelling with Filipino mythology, offering a unique perspective despite some areas that could benefit from further development.
Thank you #netgalley for providing me with the audiobook in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, Domestic abuse, and Death
ashdeclet's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Content Warnings
Moderate: Emotional abuse and Domestic abuse
alysbookishdaydream's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
A great modern take on a classic. This book is the perfect mix of a story we all love, the little mermaid mixed with practical magic. The knods to filipino culture were beautifully woven in. This novel showcases the importance of family bonds in their heritage. This was honestly my favorite part of the book was experiencing their culture thru the storytelling. This story felt very close to my heart because it reminded me of abuses, and someone dear to me endured. Therefore, please check the trigger warnings. This book had action, suspense, paranormal mythical creatures, and unbreakable sister bonds.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gaslighting, Domestic abuse, and Emotional abuse
It's a character development that show how one decision can impact your life.arbramirez's review against another edition
adventurous
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.75
A Rushed Journey with Untapped Potential
When Oceans Rise by Robin Alvarez, narrated by Jennifer Aquino, offers a promising premise and a well-constructed world that captures the essence of YA fantasy. Aquino's narration deserves commendation for breathing life into the characters and making the listening experience enjoyable. She skillfully aids in bringing the story to life.
However, despite its potential, the book falls short of delivering a satisfying narrative experience. Reading it feels like embarking on twelve different stories simultaneously, leaving readers craving deeper connections with the characters. Regrettably, the book's pacing issues hinder the reader's ability to truly engage with the plot and its cast.
The author's decision to introduce numerous plot points without providing adequate resolution leaves the reader with a sense of unfulfilled anticipation. It becomes apparent that the story would have greatly benefited from being a duology or even a trilogy, allowing for the exploration and resolution of these intriguing plot elements.
Moreover, the romance subplot feels forced and lacks the organic development that would have made it more compelling. Had the book been given the space to unfold as a series, readers would have had the opportunity to genuinely care about the plot, the characters, and the intricately built world.
In terms of pacing, the story oscillates between moments of stagnation and instances where events unfold in rapid succession. This lack of balance creates an uneven reading experience, leaving readers yearning for a more cohesive and consistent narrative flow.
Despite its flaws, When Oceans Rise possesses a captivating premise and commendable world-building, making it a potentially engrossing read for fans of YA fantasy. However, the rushed execution, insufficient character development, unresolved plot points, and forced romantic elements prevent the book from reaching its full potential.
Additionally, it is important to address the portrayal of domestic violence in When Oceans Rise. Unfortunately, the incorporation of the main character's experience with domestic violence falls flat. Rather than delving into the complex dynamics and emotional struggles that young people face in abusive relationships, the author clumsily reiterates common talking points, akin to those found in a high school health class pamphlet on domestic violence.
The inclusion of this element feels forced and unnecessary, as the story could have progressed without it. It gives the impression that the author added this tragedy solely for shock value, without fully exploring the profound impact it has on survivors and the challenging process of leaving such relationships. This missed opportunity to authentically depict the experiences of domestic violence survivors is a disappointment within the narrative.
Overall, I believe that if the author had expanded the story into a series, allowing for more time to delve into the plot, romance, and the intricacies of the world, it could have provided a more satisfying and immersive reading experience.
When Oceans Rise by Robin Alvarez, narrated by Jennifer Aquino, offers a promising premise and a well-constructed world that captures the essence of YA fantasy. Aquino's narration deserves commendation for breathing life into the characters and making the listening experience enjoyable. She skillfully aids in bringing the story to life.
However, despite its potential, the book falls short of delivering a satisfying narrative experience. Reading it feels like embarking on twelve different stories simultaneously, leaving readers craving deeper connections with the characters. Regrettably, the book's pacing issues hinder the reader's ability to truly engage with the plot and its cast.
The author's decision to introduce numerous plot points without providing adequate resolution leaves the reader with a sense of unfulfilled anticipation. It becomes apparent that the story would have greatly benefited from being a duology or even a trilogy, allowing for the exploration and resolution of these intriguing plot elements.
Moreover, the romance subplot feels forced and lacks the organic development that would have made it more compelling. Had the book been given the space to unfold as a series, readers would have had the opportunity to genuinely care about the plot, the characters, and the intricately built world.
In terms of pacing, the story oscillates between moments of stagnation and instances where events unfold in rapid succession. This lack of balance creates an uneven reading experience, leaving readers yearning for a more cohesive and consistent narrative flow.
Despite its flaws, When Oceans Rise possesses a captivating premise and commendable world-building, making it a potentially engrossing read for fans of YA fantasy. However, the rushed execution, insufficient character development, unresolved plot points, and forced romantic elements prevent the book from reaching its full potential.
Additionally, it is important to address the portrayal of domestic violence in When Oceans Rise. Unfortunately, the incorporation of the main character's experience with domestic violence falls flat. Rather than delving into the complex dynamics and emotional struggles that young people face in abusive relationships, the author clumsily reiterates common talking points, akin to those found in a high school health class pamphlet on domestic violence.
The inclusion of this element feels forced and unnecessary, as the story could have progressed without it. It gives the impression that the author added this tragedy solely for shock value, without fully exploring the profound impact it has on survivors and the challenging process of leaving such relationships. This missed opportunity to authentically depict the experiences of domestic violence survivors is a disappointment within the narrative.
Overall, I believe that if the author had expanded the story into a series, allowing for more time to delve into the plot, romance, and the intricacies of the world, it could have provided a more satisfying and immersive reading experience.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse and Violence
confessionsofabibliophile's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
informative
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
I was l lucky enough to receive the audio arc for review via Netgalley. Thank you, Tides Collide Publishing, for giving me the chance to listen to this magical story in return for an honest review. Thank you, Robin Alvarez, for creating this fantastical retelling of The Little Mermaid laced with Filipino Legends and Lore.
*Trigger Warnings* Domestic Abuse (physical, emotional and mental) from a partner, gaslighting, cheating, brainwashing and all the bad things that go along with abusive partners.
*Trigger Warnings* Domestic Abuse (physical, emotional and mental) from a partner, gaslighting, cheating, brainwashing and all the bad things that go along with abusive partners.
Tiktik. A bird that is believed to fly alongside a Manananggal. It makes a sound “tik-tik-tik-tik” or “ik-ik-ik-ik” It is said that the fainter the call of the bird the nearer the Manananggal is to you, the louder the ticking the further away it is. This is meant to confuse victims of this Filipino myth.
Alvarez paints an ordinary life of a teenage Filipino girl, growing up in the United States. The girl is caught between the throws of a more Westernised ways of life and the life and ways of the old customs her Filipino mother tries to push on her. As someone who is tri-racial myself I grew up in a culture very similar to the Filipino one with the way of doing certain things. So I found myself mirroring Malaya thinking back to when I was her age and struggling with being who I wanted and yet still trying to keep the family happy.
I really loved learning about the Filipino culture and the Mythology and Lore. As I am a sucker for Cryptids in any culture; Wendigos, Chupacabras, Skinwalkers and more. So finding out that this was not only a fairytale retelling, which is one of my favourite genres, but also used Cryptids and Mythology from the Filipino culture, I was like yes, sign me up.
The story started off a little slow. Though it begins to pick up and after the speed change I was able to focus a lot more on the story. I loved how the use of magical realism was used and it kept the story interesting. I hated Ian the second he entered the chat. I was a little irked by how fast their relationship went, all because of a fortune. I felt like that was the reason Malaya went so hard for Ian and fell victim to all his rubbish. Blinded by love, I didn't understand how it happened. Then again teenage romance does that. Another thing, that I thought was a little clunky was the time shifts in the storyline. Though was easy to ignore.
After loads of lies, gaslighting, tons of abuse, Malaya finds herself drowning in the ocean. She is snatched up by a mythological creature and taken to a Sea Witch. Where she makes a deal to erase the love and heartache, for the price of her voice. This thrusts her into a different timeline. I guess a parallel universe to the one she came from. Ian is not apart of her life in this time, and she has a second chance at life or so she thinks. All if her personal relationships are different and seem better in this life. I won't go too into it as I don't want to drop any big spoilers. There is A LOT of time shifting and A LOT of fighting Cryptids, with the help of everyone in this time and the parallel in which she came. Even the Filipino Gods come in to help using a Mortal they chose as a Champion. All this is happening while Malaya learns some valuable life lessons, and works on a plot to get her voice back and defeat the Sea Witch.
I finished the audio book in two days, maybe two and a half days, as I listened driving to and from work and in bed or while cleaning. It did tie up nicely with an epilogue, I was just a bit eh on one part, because something happens and a choice is made by a key character that is literally the thing the book spent the half the time trying to right as it was wrong for it to happen. I guess I felt like the message that I thought was perfectly conveyed by Alvarez was then dismantled by her as well. That aside I still enjoyed the book and it left me wishing for more even though it didn't have a cliffhanger ending. That is just me wanting more of the Cryptids and lore. All in all I was very pleased with this retelling even with the minor flaws I would recommend.
*Review can also be found on IG, Netgalley and Goodreads.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Toxic relationship, Domestic abuse, Gaslighting, and Physical abuse
Moderate: Grief, Racism, Injury/Injury detail, and Misogyny
Minor: Murder and Death
paulineerika's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Bumping this rating up. This is definitely an ambitious book. Alvarez tackles so many things in this book, from abusive dating relationships to complicated mother-daughter relationships to feeling like an outsider no matter what you do to wanting your culture to be seen, all within the backdrop of Filipino mythology.
I think my biggest gripe with the book is that it can read as a little scattered, jumping from plot point to plot point and not letting certain elements develop enough.For example, we really don't see very much of the gaslighting or abuse Malaya suffers at the hands of her boyfriend--instead, we're mostly told that she did in the first couple of chapters. This may have been a stylistic choice by Alvarez to avoid too graphic of details, but I would have liked at least a little more description to give more context to Malaya's decision and desperation. Similarly, the family "curse" is really only mentioned in passing and doesn't actually play that large a role in the story. And then randomly, there are gods and Salvador is their champion? What? But as I said, it's ambitious and while the story doesn't always hit its marks, I still applaud the effort.
I think my biggest gripe with the book is that it can read as a little scattered, jumping from plot point to plot point and not letting certain elements develop enough.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse and Emotional abuse
Moderate: Gaslighting
mezzythedragon's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
medium-paced
3.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Domestic abuse and Gaslighting
Minor: Physical abuse, Violence, Xenophobia, and Racism