It’s been a while since I’ve been as excited to read a book as I was to read Of Songs and Saltwater, and author Heather Carter did not disappoint. The story is a retelling of The Little Mermaid, but with a genderbent twist. Fivrial is a redheaded siren who dreams of the human world… or rather, he dreams of meeting Meryn, the human woman he adores from afar. Naturally, he finds a way to trade his fins for legs, but the magic is temporary unless Meryn says she loves him.
With phrases like “Don’t be such a minnow,” and, “You, sir, are the barnacle on the ass of a whale,” the book was a fun romp of a read. The main characters are likable, and their developing relationship is believable. Watching Fivrial adjust and learn about life on dry land is as endearing as it is entertaining, and the reader experiences Meryn’s joy as she introduces the things she loves to her new friend.
As with most good novels, things aren’t as easy as they seem. Stakes are raised, and there are a few unexpected twists that lead to a quest, complete with swords and magical tests of character. I don’t want to give away too much with details here, but again, this is a really fun read. Heather Carter does a great job giving the reader the sense of urgency and desperation the characters are feeling, and the quest itself is a well crafted hero’s journey. If you enjoy reading authors like Mercedes Lackey or Sarah J. Maas, pick up Of Songs and Saltwater. The storytelling is magically befitting of the plot, and when you’re finished, you’ll find yourself waiting for the next book by Heather Carter.
Of Songs and Saltwater is available for purchase on Amazon.
S. R. Logan is a writing mom of three who dabbles in writing, drawing and other crafty things. You can find her work on Medium and Instagram.