A review by mattiedancer
Skin of the Sea by Natasha Bowen

adventurous sad fast-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

4.25

Writing: 4.25⭐️/5 
The novel started off a bit rough, but it quickly cleaned up into some very clean and clear prose. She handles complex plot points with precision and foreshadows the progression clearly enough that you’re not caught off guard, even if you are still surprised. 

Characters: 4.75⭐️/5
The characters were well-described and felt mostly realistic. At all times they felt complex without being overwhelming. I particularly loved her method of humanizing the gods without stripping them of their powers. They felt real, raw, and dangerous, even as they talked to humans. The antagonist, too, is a formidable opponent who, at all moments, felt dangerous and unhinged.

Plot: 5⭐️/5 
The novel is described as “The Little Mermaid” inspired by West African mythology. While I think this is a great description of the opening section of the novel, I do think it sells the rest of the novel a bit short actually. The depth this plot goes to, blending the seriousness of real-life events with the levity of this magical world, is wonderful to read and an addicting page-turner. 

Post-Reading Rating:  4.5⭐️/5
Slight cliff-hanger. There is a sequel, so maybe have that on hand if you like the first half of the novel. 

Who Should Read This? 
  • Fans of The Little Mermaid
  • Fantasy readers
  • Young adult readers 14+
  • Fans of mythology-inspired stories

Final Rating: 4.25⭐️/5
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