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A review by leandrathetbrzero
The Salt Grows Heavy by Cassandra Khaw
challenging
dark
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
A Kingdom Devoured, A Mermaid On The Run👑
↓ Similar Reads ↓
1. A Dowry of Blood by ST Gibson
2. A House With Good Bones by T Kingfisher (want to read!)
3. Any recommendations?
In this dark fairytale retelling, the prince takes a mermaid for his bride, and their monstrous daughters devour the kingdom. Only bones and ashes are left in their wake. The mermaid is now on the run, joined by a mysterious plague doctor, and the two must unleash the darkest parts of themselves in order to survive the nights ahead. Equal parts beautiful and cruel, Khaw's storytelling asks you to rethink what it means to be a monster.
As a horror newbie, I’m still figuring out which reads I am guaranteed to enjoy. However, when I saw this at the top of my library’s pile of newest additions, I actually couldn’t help but start reading it during my shift! I’ve always been a fan of fairytale retellings, especially those that bring back the stories’ original dark atmosphere. This is definitely an atmospheric read more than one belonging to the jump scare variety, which complements the hauntingly beautiful prose style. I was also heavily invested in the intimacy that grew between the two main characters as the narrative progressed. The plague doctor is depicted as a nonbinary character as well for those looking for inclusive horror recommendations!
Be sure to check out the content warnings on this title if you feel the need to do so!
↓ Similar Reads ↓
1. A Dowry of Blood by ST Gibson
2. A House With Good Bones by T Kingfisher (want to read!)
3. Any recommendations?
In this dark fairytale retelling, the prince takes a mermaid for his bride, and their monstrous daughters devour the kingdom. Only bones and ashes are left in their wake. The mermaid is now on the run, joined by a mysterious plague doctor, and the two must unleash the darkest parts of themselves in order to survive the nights ahead. Equal parts beautiful and cruel, Khaw's storytelling asks you to rethink what it means to be a monster.
As a horror newbie, I’m still figuring out which reads I am guaranteed to enjoy. However, when I saw this at the top of my library’s pile of newest additions, I actually couldn’t help but start reading it during my shift! I’ve always been a fan of fairytale retellings, especially those that bring back the stories’ original dark atmosphere. This is definitely an atmospheric read more than one belonging to the jump scare variety, which complements the hauntingly beautiful prose style. I was also heavily invested in the intimacy that grew between the two main characters as the narrative progressed. The plague doctor is depicted as a nonbinary character as well for those looking for inclusive horror recommendations!
Be sure to check out the content warnings on this title if you feel the need to do so!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gore, Violence, and Child death
Moderate: Blood and Body horror
Minor: Sexual violence