Review by Booklist Review
After Sera learns about her destiny at the end of Deep Blue (2014), she and the other mermaids depart to track down the mystical talismans that will help them defeat Abbadon, a monster with the power to destroy the world's oceans. Sera and Neela separately return to their kingdoms only to discover that Traho's nefarious control extends farther than they ever imagined, while simultaneously using their newfound magic skills and knowledge of their realm's history to figure out where the talismans are hidden. Donnelly's rich world building is as enticing as ever, though much of the plot seems like stage setting for the forthcoming trilogy ender. Additionally, certain elements of Sera's ocean life are baffling how does a mermaid drink hot tea from a cup underwater, for instance? Most readers probably won't mind that quibble, however, and will instead immerse themselves in the twisty tale of betrayal, intrigue, and steamy romance. A compelling cliff-hanger ending will likely guarantee interest in the next volume. Familiarity with the first book is a must.--Hunter, Sarah Copyright 2015 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 6-9-Donnelly continues the story of the mermaid Serafina and her friends in an undersea world remarkably like our own. Following the events from Deep Blue (Disney-Hyperion, 2014), Serafina is still reeling from the deaths of her royal parents and the betrayal of her fiancé. She summons the strength to search for the six magical talismans that once belonged to the Six Who Ruled, powerful mages who governed the lost empire of Atlantis. Serafina had joined forces with five other mermaids in the previous volume, and each mermaid is now seeking the talismans that the protagonist is convinced will help keep their underwater world from being destroyed. A kind of magic allows the merls (girls) to communicate with one another, and the story focuses mainly on Serafina and her best friend, girly-girl mermaid Neela, as they each try to find one of the talismans. Along the way, Serafina encounters her fiancé and discovers that his betrayal was not what it seemed. Although the story has all the features of a Disney movie, the characters are likable and suspense and romance abound. The biggest challenge for readers may be the use of "mermish," the language of the mermaids. A 13-page glossary is appended. However, be warned: most of the words refer to people and places instead of terms, which can be confusing. If readers can get past that, they will find a well-trod story line with appealing protagonists. VERDICT Recommended as a second purchase where the first volume is popular.-Kathy Kirchoefer, Henderson County Public Library, NC (c) Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Horn Book Review
Mermaids Serafina, Neela, and the other descendants of the Six go their separate ways. Sera sets out in search of the talismans needed to destroy Abbadon, while Neela returns to Matali to warn her parents about the dangers that destroyed Miromara. The fast-paced plot, enchanting setting, and resourceful protagonists will keep fans of the series engaged. Glos. (c) Copyright 2015. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
