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A review by kimberly_hoffman_author
The Surface Breaks by Louise O'Neill
4.0
Good story, but dark.
O'Neill paints a world that is very misogynistic to the point that women have virtually no voice, no power and are suppressed by the males in their society. Gaia (the little mermaid) obeys, but wants to break free of these constraints as she feels she is about to be lost forever in an unwanted, arranged marriage. The story explains the lengths she goes to in order to escape her situation and the consequences that decision brings. There is imagery throughout to drive home the reality of her plight.
I enjoyed the tale and the creativeness the author added, bringing her own twist to the story, but I was a bit uneased by the ending. (SPOILER) I felt Gaia should not have become that vengeful. I understand where she was coming from, but she changed to a very negative, spiteful and vengeful girl. I had anticipated her changing at the end, but was hoping for a matured character who had power under control and would be there to teach her sisters the truth.
Definitely an interesting read, especially if you are found of fairy tales. Just be aware this one is more toward the originals than a Disney version.
O'Neill paints a world that is very misogynistic to the point that women have virtually no voice, no power and are suppressed by the males in their society. Gaia (the little mermaid) obeys, but wants to break free of these constraints as she feels she is about to be lost forever in an unwanted, arranged marriage. The story explains the lengths she goes to in order to escape her situation and the consequences that decision brings. There is imagery throughout to drive home the reality of her plight.
I enjoyed the tale and the creativeness the author added, bringing her own twist to the story, but I was a bit uneased by the ending. (SPOILER) I felt Gaia should not have become that vengeful. I understand where she was coming from, but she changed to a very negative, spiteful and vengeful girl. I had anticipated her changing at the end, but was hoping for a matured character who had power under control and would be there to teach her sisters the truth.
Definitely an interesting read, especially if you are found of fairy tales. Just be aware this one is more toward the originals than a Disney version.