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A review by tatiana_luz
A Song Below Water by Bethany C. Morrow
challenging
emotional
funny
mysterious
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? It's complicated
3.5
This is the first book I've read in a while. Overall, it was a fun read. I love a modern fantasy setting. I appreciated the nuance in intersectionality of different magical being, as eloks are not feared or attacked like siren. It was a good metaphor for how white and Black women are treated differently. There is also the concept of how race plays a role in the treatment of sirens, since it only occurs to Black women.
All that said, the pacing and direction were left somewhat lacking. I thought the story would center around Tavia based on the summary, but the latter half seemed to be more about Effie, who I found to be more interesting. It's a shame, because I thought Tavia had a good plot but little time to build on it. The author, understandably, took time setting up the world but ended up sacrificing plot. Regardless, I found this to be an enjoyable read.
All that said, the pacing and direction were left somewhat lacking. I thought the story would center around Tavia based on the summary, but the latter half seemed to be more about Effie, who I found to be more interesting. It's a shame, because I thought Tavia had a good plot but little time to build on it. The author, understandably, took time setting up the world but ended up sacrificing plot. Regardless, I found this to be an enjoyable read.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Racism and Police brutality