A review by lady_smith
Into the Drowning Deep by Mira Grant

challenging dark sad tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

I read this because it was on a list of fantasy books with excellent representation, but I cannot in good faith give it a star rating.

On the one hand, it is a very well-written book with detailed science, engaging and diverse characters, vivid descriptions, and a good plot. So objectively it should get at least 4 stars for all that.

But I'm writing this review 2 years after reading it and honestly cannot reread the SYNOPSIS without starting to hyperventilate because this book was so bloody terrifying (for me). I know there are people out there who would enjoy the stress of

following worker dolphins' last thoughts before they are massacred by mermurdermaids

but I'm not one of them. So in my heart I'd give this like -50 stars because I'll never be comfortable with mermaids again, except that it wouldn't be fair to the author, who clearly was writing this for an audience that isn't me. 

So if you like mermaids, oceans, boating, or HEA... probably don't read this book. 

If you like terrifying monsters attacking a bunch of characters that you're emotionally invested in... go for it??

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Death, Animal death, Grief, and Violence

Most of the characters will die in a horrific bloodbath.