dhiyanah's reviews
478 reviews

Watermyth is an unapologetically feminine, dreamy, and thoughtful epic fantasy set in a world that reimagines post-colonial cultural dynamics, told in a narrative voice tempered like the sea and grounded in authenticity. Its structure is fragmented, much like the breaking of waves and the turbulent memories of its main characters - variations of watermaidens gravitating and shapeshifting towards each other by a shared determination to sustain the safe spaces they've found and forged together.

The style of storytelling reminded me of classical epic poetry, where the journey told the story more clearly than the characters or plot could. I could slow down here and let the current take me to the places and plot lines it needed me to witness. Towards the end, the asynchronous storytelling unfolded and a linearity emerged where the pieces fell into place, a doorway to the sequel blossoming open.

Watermyth has a diverse and lovable cast of characters that each uncover and explore an aspect of being, becoming, and living with the realities of watermaidens. The nature of watermaidens in this world is reminiscent of the transformative forces of trauma and recovery, along with the tension that trembles ceaselessly between them. The exploration of storytelling, from form to memory to the emotional reality of the practice, is treated with such reverence here.

Every time I sat down with the book, I was drawn to prepare a cup of tea for myself (and some snacks!), because honestly? It felt so right!

It was the best way to spend time with tea-loving mermaids tasked to face a multiverse of uncertainty.

Watermyth is a book for those who've gone through their own silenced hardships and are looking for a bit of softness within storms. A story for those who enjoy witnessing stories unfold in their authentic voices. A journey for those drawn towards reverie, mystery, and quietly courageous, intellectually sharp characters.

I'm looking forward to the sequel!

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