Evergreen (Mer Tales, #2)

Sep 07, 2012 Cici rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, romance, mythology, firstreads

Got my signed copy in the mail today along with a signed bookmark, thanks to the Goodreads giveaway! Thank you!
Cover is gorgeous!

3.5 stars

Evergreen is a fun and cute beach read. Brenda Pandos created a unique and interesting mermaid world. I love how a mermaid/mermans kiss is so special, binding and promising the two together. Evergreen has a great story line and it took quite a few cool, unexpected twists.
The romance was cute, sometimes a little cheesy, but sweet.
I'm used to the characters in...more

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May 01, 2013 Shelby rated it 4 of 5 stars

Better book than the first. It was nice to see Fin and Ash getting to actually spend some time with each other or at least talking to each other. Still it felt a little ridiculous how often the wouldn't tell the other person everything that was going on. I think part of what I like more about this book was there was actually some action going on.

I think one of my biggest complaints about this book was how often characters personalities filp flopped, Colin and Galadriel most specifically. Their...more

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May 02, 2013 Deanna rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-id-read-again, paranormal, mild-language

Just as good as the first book. (Which I was concerned about since the second and third books in Pandos' Talisman series were both very disappointing and I was worried that it would be the same case for this series).

In this book, Fin and Ash are apart as Fin and his parents travel to Florida for safety. Meanwhile, Ash is stuck in Tahoe where Fin's uncle and cousin have returned and have formed an unhealthy interest in her. But she keeps them a secret from Fin. (Agh! Don't you always hate it when...more

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Apr 08, 2013 Guitar Chick rated it 3 of 5 stars

I'm a bit of a cornball, I'm not going to lie. My favorite musical is Les Miserables. Adam West Batman was my first Batman. I sometimes watch kid's TV and answer enthusiastically. I don't have (non-existent) dates, I have (non-existent) gentleman callers.
But Evergreen takes cornball to a whole 'nother level, and that's not always a good thing.
The "romantic" dialog in this book is enough to gag a maggot. I thought it was a little charming and geeky and awkward in the first book, but here, it's a...more

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Sep 06, 2012 Evie rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Fans of mermaid stories and good fantasy books!

Shelves: 2012-ya, best-thing-ever, blog-tour, charming, fantasy, favorites, finished-copy, freaking-awesome, mermaids, pure-awesomeness, signed-by-author, very-enjoyable, ya

Evergreen is the second book in Brenda Pandos' fabulous and gorgeously imagined Mer Tales. I absolutely adored the first book, Everblue, and was literally counting the days to the release of Evergreen. Brenda Pandos' mermaids and mermen are truly extraordinary and insanely fun to read about. I knew I would love Evergreen just as much as I loved Everblue. I knew this book would be a huge treat. And I knew I would stay up all night reading it, desperate to soak up every delicious detail of Pandos...more Evergreen is the second book in Brenda Pandos' fabulous and gorgeously imagined Mer Tales. I absolutely adored the first book, Everblue, and was literally counting the days to the release of Evergreen. Brenda Pandos' mermaids and mermen are truly extraordinary and insanely fun to read about. I knew I would love Evergreen just as much as I loved Everblue. I knew this book would be a huge treat. And I knew I would stay up all night reading it, desperate to soak up every delicious detail of Pandos' careful and magical world building. And yet I was still totally blown away when I finally sat down to read it. This book proved to be even better than the first one, even more action packed, exciting, swoon-worthy, dramatic, and addictive! Brenda Pandos made an even bigger splash with this excellent new addition to the series, and boy, did I love it!

Evergreen picks up exactly where Everblue left off. Bound together by a powerful mer kiss, Fin and Ash are now forced to endure a long time separation while Fin and his family are on the run for their lives, trying desperately to figure out a way to free Fin's sister, Tatchi. They know that one day they will need to decide which one of them will convert to the other's life, what they don't know is just how soon that moment will come. The rotten, treacherous underwater Kingdom of Natatoria holds many more dark secrets then anyone ever expected. Secrets that will put Fin and Ash's relationship -- and possibly their lives -- in great danger!

I said that before and I will say it again: Brenda Pandos world-and-character building skills are extraordinary. There are so many fun little details to the story, so many exciting plot developments, vibrant new characters, moments of absolute heartbreak and longing, amusing dialogues and blood-pressure-rising situations that this book is virtually impossible to put down mid-way. The narrative flow - alternating points of view between Fin and Ash - is so effortless and magnetic, you just can't bring yourself to pause. Whenever the story gets too emotionally intense or too serious, Brenda throws in a humorous back-and-forth between the characters, a hilarious situation, or a clever mermaid joke, and the tension instantly deflates, just so she can build it back up again few pages later! It's a wild roller coaster ride, and you'll need to hold on tight to your seats!

Evergreen is even more action packed than Everblue. More is happening -- Fin has some serious problems to deal with, and Ash's life is not drama-free either -- and it seems that something evil is lurking around every corner. At the same time Brenda expands the fictional world -- introducing us to some wicked new characters -- and we get a way better understanding of the mer world, complete with the kingdom's politics and customs. We learn more about the magical bond created by mer kiss, as well as about what happens when a merman loses his fin. The plot is thick with secrets, lies, and longing. There's a feeling of urgency to the story, of time that is running out, of uncertainty about the future. Like I said, it's a pretty intense ride, but also one that is perfectly balanced and very enjoyable.

As much as I loved Fin and Ash, I must say that two characters that really stood out for me were Galadriel and Collin. Both of them have very strong, vibrant, interesting personalities and there's more to them than meets the eye. Galadriel is a character that one loves to hate, though at the same time there is something very intriguing about her, a certain dark and dangerous aura that surrounds her, and maybe just a tiny bit cuckoo-crazy to complete the picture. She's strong-willed, bold, sassy, fierce, and often mean and ruthless. I was utterly fascinated by her wild personality! Collin, while trying to appear all manly, irresistible and unbeatable, was in fact quite adorable, especially in his interactions with Ash. I laughed so hard at his failed attempts to enchant Ash with his singing!

I had so much fun reading Evergreen, it was a sweet, seductive, adventurous and enchanting novel. A wonderful addition to the series that once again leaves me counting the days to the release of the next book. If mermaid stories tickle your fancy, Brenda Bandos' Mer Tales are the books to go with!(less)

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Jun 30, 2012 Lori Horne rated it 5 of 5 stars

Evergreen, Book #2 in the Mer Tales saga by Brenda Pandos returns us to the lives of Ashlyn and Finley, a human and Mer, as they endure the trials of separation soon after their romance began.
In Book #1 (Everblue) a magical kiss created a promise that linked hearts with a binding and deep love. As we travel through the pages of Book #2 we are ensconced into their lives. Ash continues to go through the normal teenaged woes of being in high school, keeping up with her position on the swim team, ha...more

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Jan 08, 2013 Amy (Books, College, and Other Random Things) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed, favorites

*May contain spoilers from previous book*

Finley and his family are on the run from the royal family of Natatoria and his cousin, Colin, and Uncle Alastor. Ashlyn can only communicate with Fin by phone and e-mail. Ash doesn’t expect to have any trouble with mermen until she sees Colin and Alastor taking residence in Fin’s house. She decides not to tell Fin, but it’s clear that Colin has set his sights on Ash. He’s also not the only one she has to dodge.

She never really broke things off with Calla...more

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Jul 01, 2012 Candy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: lord-love-a-lobster

I enjoy all things Mer but I absolutely loved this book! Everblue left off with some crazy stuff going down in Natatoria; Tatchi being left behind because of the bassface Azor forcing her promise, Fin and his parents escaping with the aid of their band of ferrymen, Fin proposing to Ash with a red stone for his ginger girl, and Fin, leaving Ash behind, taking a family road trip to Florida to escape evil mermen. So now we continue this adventure that takes place over a span of 11days...slightly le...more I enjoy all things Mer but I absolutely loved this book! Everblue left off with some crazy stuff going down in Natatoria; Tatchi being left behind because of the bassface Azor forcing her promise, Fin and his parents escaping with the aid of their band of ferrymen, Fin proposing to Ash with a red stone for his ginger girl, and Fin, leaving Ash behind, taking a family road trip to Florida to escape evil mermen. So now we continue this adventure that takes place over a span of 11days...slightly less than actually but a lot can happen as Pandos proves.

While the dates being in the title of each chapter helped to keep me on track, I was still blown away with the amount of action and drama that occurred in said time frame. Doesn't anyone ever sleep?! Well, without the help of incapacitating octopus ink at least? I am by no means complaining whatsoever because Pandos brilliantly introduces new characters, subtly brings back memorable ones, and then weaves them seamlessly into the evergrowing, eversurprising, and evermysterious plot.

While the mission to rescue Tatchi is still a running theme, some other surprises take priority. Events that took place behind the palace walls years ago are well kept secrets...until now. Who really is "royalty"? What does being "promised" truly mean? Does anyone have the answers?

With mergirls like Galadriel, who may mirror Ash in looks but screams danger, and the return of the dark side with the likes of Uncle Alaster, who is so disgustingly evil that readers will recoil at the mention of his name, there is no room for boredom or even a potty break! I ended up burning my dinner because I left it on the stove as I was finishing the last chapter...not a smart thing to do *cough* children do not follow this example! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this amazing creation by Pandos and definitely recommend this to anyone and everyone. Action, romance, suspense, humor, and fantasy all rolled into this delectable treat. Bon appetite!

“We could try the window. It looks a little small but once the light comes in, we can lob Gidget through the window.” “Gidget?” I asked. “Yeah.” He pointed at Ash. “Girl midget.”

Pandos, Brenda (2012-06-26). Evergreen (Mer Tales) (Kindle Locations 4857-4860). Obsidian Mountain Publishing. Kindle Edition.
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Aug 24, 2012 Jessica rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult

Ever since reading Everblue last year, I've been eagerly waiting to see what fate awaited Ash and Fin. These two have a love that is too adorable for words! It's hard not to want to root for something good to happen to them. Everblue left off with some cliffhangers happening in Natatoria. Tatchi, Fin and Ash were all left hanging in some type of precarious position. So I don't think I need to explain too deeply why I had such a deep need to see what happened! I dove right in.

I wouldn't have thou...more

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Jul 22, 2012 Stacy rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: just-plain-awful

This book wasn't really great. The story was unique (I guess), but I didn't really enjoy it. Also, if I were a redhead, I don't think I would enjoy a man calling me their 'ginger girl.' I would find it offensive, since being called a "ginger" isn't really a good thing.

I have one question: was this book even proofread before it was published? Ashlyn is going to college, not 'collage.' Also, 'dossal' doesn't equal 'docile' (they're not even REMOTELY the same thing), 'aloud' doesn't equal 'allowed....more

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Feb 05, 2013 Amanda rated it 3 of 5 stars

I've debated and I would have to give this book 3.5 stars. I wanted to love this book. I was so drawn in to the first in the series. However, I could not get into this book at the beginning. I would have to say the first 40% of the book was so slow for me and I did not even look forward to coming back to read it. I felt like nothing at all happened in that time except Ash and Fin talking about their relationship and feelings. Hell, I'm all for a romance but I had enough with this.(view spoiler)...more

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Jul 06, 2012 Amy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Brenda Pandos did it again! I want more of Ash and Fin!!! The Talisman series was one of my favorite sets before this and now this one is surpassing that as my favorite! I thought the first book was awesome but this one was even better. This set is so different than anything I have read before. I enjoy learning about the world of merpeople as much as I enjoy the romance of Ash and Fin and everything they go through just to be together. This book is beautifully written and gives you a vivid pictu...more

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Jan 25, 2013 Jillian rated it 3 of 5 stars

Ugh. The conversations between the guy and girl were even cheesier than book two. So many things happened in this one that didn't pertain to the plot (like a trip across the country- TWICE!) that just felt like a waste of words, I finally had to skim through it to get to the meat of the novel.

Once the important stuff finally started happening it was pretty cool. But it does feel like Pandos didn't thoroughly think through her new world and is continually making new rules to make her story go whe...more

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Jul 19, 2012 Jen*The Geeky Book Gal* rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: mermaid-sea

I dove right into this, the second installment of the Mer tales right after the cliffhanger ending of the first book. I'm so glad I did..it has the same everlasting love and devotion between Ash and Fin as well as bringing in some secondary characters I grew interested in. The mermaid mythology is expanded-the author really makes the same old same old in mermaid lore new and interesting! AND several things that I really didn't expect happened.

All in all, it was a great installment in the series,...more

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Jul 14, 2012 fяσzєη marked it as to-read

Damn it, I was hoping this cover would've been temporary. D: I hate it. Compared to the first book's cover, this one is so...ugh, it's just such a letdown.

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Jul 28, 2012 Amy rated it 5 of 5 stars

I can't wait! Everblue was awesome.

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Aug 29, 2012 Valia Lind rated it 5 of 5 stars

Full Review: http://wordsareinnermusic.blogspot.com

This book picks up where Everblue left us almost a year ago. Ash and Fin are in love, but their lives are set on keeping them apart. Fin is now across the states, on a trip that’s taking him farther and farther away, while Ash is trying desperately to keep some kind of normalcy to her life. With Tatchi, her best friend, gone and now losing Fin, she tries to get back to the human way of life. But the Mer world is never too far behind, and on the...more Full Review: http://wordsareinnermusic.blogspot.com

This book picks up where Everblue left us almost a year ago. Ash and Fin are in love, but their lives are set on keeping them apart. Fin is now across the states, on a trip that’s taking him farther and farther away, while Ash is trying desperately to keep some kind of normalcy to her life. With Tatchi, her best friend, gone and now losing Fin, she tries to get back to the human way of life. But the Mer world is never too far behind, and on the brink of war, Ash and Fin’s love for each other is tested like it’s never been tested before.

I can’t begin to tell you how much I love this story. Evergreen is a perfect book two in this Mer saga. Ash is learning so much about herself, and the world that she is pulled into, but she’s staying strong through it all. Sure, she girl was driving up the wall with her keeping things from Fin and in the end making more work for him, but I can understand her a little. She’s navigating troubled waters. I’ll give her the benefit of the doubt.
As for Fin, can I have one please? The handsome and amazing one, not the one for swimming :-) Fin is one of my favorite characters. I did kind of wish there was more of Fin and his awesomeness in this book, but since he was away and trying to figure out what in the world was going on, I forgive him. Sure, I was mad at him a few times, but in the end, he’s still Fin. (I always need more Fin)
I have to say, more than anything, I love Fin and Ash together. This is one part of the book that was missing for me. I know that the storyline called for them being apart like this, but Brenda does such a fabulous job at creating Fin and Ash relationship that I just want them together all the time. They make each other a better version of themselves, and that is the best love possible.
Evergreen is a full on hurricane ride. There is so much going on in every page, with twists and turns to take you on a real journey. Brenda has created a world full of wonder, love and adventure. I can’t wait to see where the next book takes us and how my beloved characters come out in the end.

PS. Did you guys see my blurb in the back? Brenda is a sweetheart :-D(less)

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Jan 19, 2013 Witchmag rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-2012, young-adult, paranormal, shifters, zzz-reviewed

Read the full review at Witchmag's Boekenplank

*May contain spoilers if you haven’t read the first book*

It took some time before this book fully set off. Although little things happen, the focus is on Ash’s and Fin’s phone calls. I wished things were a bit more spiced up, since the first book ended with a big bang. Oh well, it wasn’t exactly a bother to read about one of the cutest couples in bookland. It really felt nice to see how they took care of each other and tried to make the other one fee...more

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Sep 02, 2012 Ariel Avalon rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 4-stars, 2012-challenge, mermaids, reviewed, relationships

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Originally posted at arielavalon.com

Ash and Fin are already being separated right after they have bonded. Fin and his family are on the run from their kingdom and heading off to the safe house in Florida. The separation is painful to the both of them, but that is the least of their problems. Between Fin's cousin Colin hanging around Ash and the princess Galadriel hanging around Fin, and the secrets and lies being passed around, their problems are only beginning.

I liked the characters less in thi...more Originally posted at arielavalon.com

Ash and Fin are already being separated right after they have bonded. Fin and his family are on the run from their kingdom and heading off to the safe house in Florida. The separation is painful to the both of them, but that is the least of their problems. Between Fin's cousin Colin hanging around Ash and the princess Galadriel hanging around Fin, and the secrets and lies being passed around, their problems are only beginning.

I liked the characters less in this book. The bond was made out to be this horribly painful thing in the first book, and yet here it was made out to be this annoying pest of a thing. It made the characters start to feel whiny. Fin and Galariel's interactions with each other got to me. For Fin's bond to be pestering him so hard, I don't really understand why she kept drawing him in. It made for a plot point that I felt could've been avoided. I know it was testing Fin's commitment, but it felt insulting that it needed to be there at all. Ash lying to Fin about Colin seemed more natural. She thought she could handle it and didn't want him to worry. Was it stupid? Yes, she should've told him, but I at least understand why she didn't whereas his "baby betrayals" weren't explained and didn't need to be there.

I was not a fan of Galariel or Jax, not at all. I know you don't see much of Jax, but there is something about both of their characters that really irks me. There are more secrets there that we aren't seeing. If there isn't then their characters just have annoying personalities.

The story became very very obvious shortly after Fin and his family arrived at the safe house, and even more obvious when Callahan slugged Colin. I know it was a bridge, setting things up for the return to the kingdom, but it was disappointing to have no eyes in the kingdom the entire novel and for it to almost drag along the way it did. The truth about Azor that came out felt a bit sudden. I feel like it should've been built up and hinted upon in the first book, even slightly and I don't recall that being the case.

Or will someone else make the choice for them if they can’t decide?
This was the worst part of the summary. As soon as I read it I knew it would be true. The novel took a nosedive for me after that. Things started feeling anti-climatic. Ash and Fin's little heart-to-heart in the enclave didn't help either. She was so depressed and doubting about things and her emotions just didn't feel genuine. Sure, they made sense, but they didn't feel real enough. Fin's reassurance felt about the same. Afterwards Fin starts talking about the bond and how he feels its more of a mind over matter thing, a way to strengthen real feelings, not a forced feeling like it had seemed to be in the beginning of the book and in the first novel.

As much as all that sounds like I didn't like the book, or that it wasn't well written, I really did like it. I can't help but love the story and the characters and want to see what will happen. I do recommend the series still. (less)

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Sep 29, 2012 Amanda rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012, a-young-adult, g-fantasy-paranormal, b-favorite

This book reminds me of why I love Brenda Pandos. I really enjoyed the first book in this series and this one was just as good. The story starts right where it left off in Everblue. Ash and Fin are promised to each other and Fin is heading across country to a safe house. The action in this book is almost non-stop.

The story itself remains fantastic. You get an action packed tale of greed, treachery, jealousy, adventure, and of course love. I adore Ash and Fin. Their relationship was a bit sappy,...more

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Aug 05, 2012 Samantha rated it 4 of 5 stars

Spoilers for Everblue!
Epic. That is all I have to say about this book. It was epic. I loved it. I was thrown a new surprise every couple pages and I just loved it. Though there were parts that I was sitting there thinking why am I still reading? It’s just Ash all sad and lonely, but then it would become epic again and I would love it all over again!
Cover:
I like the cover. I don’t really like the close-up aspect of this one. The make-up was too much and it just didn’t seem to fit the book. I thin...more Spoilers for Everblue!
Epic. That is all I have to say about this book. It was epic. I loved it. I was thrown a new surprise every couple pages and I just loved it. Though there were parts that I was sitting there thinking why am I still reading? It’s just Ash all sad and lonely, but then it would become epic again and I would love it all over again!
Cover:
I like the cover. I don’t really like the close-up aspect of this one. The make-up was too much and it just didn’t seem to fit the book. I think it would have been a little better to be like the cover of Everblue a lot more. It just seemed to fit, and this one didn’t seem to.
Plot/Writing:
Oh. My. Word. Talk about a roller coaster ride. You had one twist after another and you barely had time to catch your breath. I like how she continued the story and added new characters without making them seem to be invading on the story and not distracting from the main point, but helping it and propelling it forward. Beware, if you hate cliff hangers, then well… You’re kinda screwed cause this one ends on a major cliff hanger and I was about to throw the book across the room.
Characters:
I wanted to strangle Ash most of the time. She was just being reckless and a liar for a good part of the book. Why couldn’t she just tell the truth and make do with what happened? But no, she didn’t and well the whole stinkin’ book was her fault! Okay, end rant. She was more confusing and indecisive in this book then the last one, she knew what she wanted but wouldn’t go after it. She snuck around and hid from the people she loved. I wasn’t proud of her until the very end. Then she became the Ash we know and love.
I love Fin. I adore Fin. I was annoyed with Fin. He just seemed to not be doing much in this book. You get to see things from his perspective and it just felt wrong. Sure it gave you more to the story and explained things, but I didn’t seem to want to see that. I wanted him with Ash and them to live happily ever after and swim off in the sun set. (Metaphorically speaking, of course.) I just couldn’t get into Fin’s character all that much in this book, but the stuff that he did made me happy and swoon! 
All in All:
I really did enjoy this book, the characters got on my nerves but that was for just little stuff and that is just me ranting. If you haven’t yet you should pick up Everblue and continue on with the epic tale of Ash and Fin! 
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Dec 10, 2012 Once Upon rated it 5 of 5 stars

Oh Evergreen, you know how to win a girl over. I am not sure where to begin on how wonderful this sequel was. Evergreen in no way, shape or form came close too having the sequel syndrome. This sequel was its on entity and passed with flying colors. Before you continue reading my review, I ask that if you have not read Everblue, to please head to amazon or BN.com and download it on your ereader. We are talking only $0.99 on Amazon right now. You will not regret starting this series. There are a f...more Oh Evergreen, you know how to win a girl over. I am not sure where to begin on how wonderful this sequel was. Evergreen in no way, shape or form came close too having the sequel syndrome. This sequel was its on entity and passed with flying colors. Before you continue reading my review, I ask that if you have not read Everblue, to please head to amazon or BN.com and download it on your ereader. We are talking only $0.99 on Amazon right now. You will not regret starting this series. There are a few Mermaid stories out and about and this happens to be my favorite by far. You know from my past reviews that when I beg you to read the book or series, its FANTASTIC!!! I don't give out my 5 trees to just anyone, these are books that will stay on my shelves for a long time and even get re-read at some point. Why? because the story is so wonderful, that I know in a few years or sooner, I'll want to revisit with Ash and Fin in their journey.

Brenda writes with such vivid details, you feel a part of the story from the beginning. They jump, you jump, they kiss, you blush. Its such an awarding moment when us the reader pick up a book and dive in and immediately we are capture by what is written on the pages in front of us. That's talent folks. Not everyone that writes or has publish a book has that kind of talent. Its just pure bliss I tell ya.

Evergreen starts where Everblue ended last year. We are once again immersed in Ash and Fin's relationship. Of course if you did read Everblue, you know that their journey has separated them now. The lovebirds have had to split up by creating distance, Fin is traveling across the country with his family and Ash has stayed behind just counting the days till she can be standing in front of Fin again. Every minute they are apart because of their bond is just torture. They need each other like we need oxygen to breathe. They know that this separation is needed because Fin and his family need to figure out how to rescue his sister Tatchi. While Ash must act like nothing is different while she is home and especially around her neighbors that have taken residence in Fin's home. Ash can't let them figure out about their bond and where they are headed. How does a girl handle all this happening to her. Even worse Ash and Fin only are able to communicate for a short period of time on cell phones just before he hits the water ever day and she has gotten home from school. So much begins to take place and change for both of them, they know also they have a big decision coming up soon. Who will have to make the biggest sacrifice they will ever make in their lives, so that they can stay together as one. Will Ash turn Mermaid or will Fin give up everything and become human. Problem is that when you have a few issues to work out, you get dumped a world of more problems. Ash and Fin will have to work hard to try and figure out their lives and the secrets that Fin's underwater world springs on them. Certain events take place that will leave you holding your breath and others will melt your heart. Will Ash and Fin's love be strong to over come everything that will be thrown into their laps or should I say scales?

Evergreen will keep you roused up from the moment you jump in. You will not want to put the book down. I know I didn't. Evergreen exceeded more than what I was expecting. Like I said earlier Brenda's world and character building is amazing. I enjoy how she splits the point of views between Ash and Fin. The new characters introduced quickly become favorites just like the returning favorites. She just didn't get a single part wrong. Well maybe one, the fact that now I have to wait for the third book in the series. I have the same deep bond that Ash and Fin have for one another for this series.

Its simple, if you like action, humor, romance, thrills, vivid details and memorable characters then Evergreen and Everblue are for you. Evergreen will be one of you favorite reads of 2012 once you read it. Mermaids are the new vampires. (less)

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Aug 29, 2012 Katie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Brenda Pandos continues to impress me with every book she writes. I adored the Talisman trilogy from Brenda Pandos but I think the Mer Tales series is even better! Everything about her books just keeps improving.

Ash and Fin are one of those couples you both love and hate. They are super cute together and nothing could come between them. It's clear how much they love each other and how they would do anything for the other. However they are a little bit clingy and needy. Ash and Fin can barely be...more Brenda Pandos continues to impress me with every book she writes. I adored the Talisman trilogy from Brenda Pandos but I think the Mer Tales series is even better! Everything about her books just keeps improving.

Ash and Fin are one of those couples you both love and hate. They are super cute together and nothing could come between them. It's clear how much they love each other and how they would do anything for the other. However they are a little bit clingy and needy. Ash and Fin can barely be separated for a week before they are dying from loneliness and despair. Admittedly being apart for them is very different than a regular couple. Since they are now promised to each other they actually ache when they are apart. The need to be together is pretty much all consuming and it's almost all they can think about. It's a little annoying to read about but it's not your typical "oh I'm going to die without him/her." I do think there relationship is a good one and they are so sweet.

The world of the Mers is really starting to build in Evergreen. There was some basic world building in Everblue but not as much as I had hoped for. Once again there wasn't enough world building to completely satisfy me but more history was revealed in Evergreen and I was pleased with the direction of the story. Based on the ending to Evergreen it seems like the underwater world of the Mers will be the central focus of Everlost and I'm very excited to see what Brenda Pandos does with that world. From the glimpses of Natatoria in the first two books, I think it will be a very awesome underwater world.

A few more characters are introduced in Evergreen and some of the old ones are rather different than before. Both Ashlyn's parents and Fin's parents are a little less likable but that is only because of how they treat Fin's and Ashlyn's relationship. They are good parents and they care for the children and it's nice to have parental figures as a focal point of the story. Colin and Alaster are back and they are just as evil and conniving as ever. Everything they do is just terrible and they are some seriously messed up villains. The refugee Mers in Florida are some of the new characters and they are a mix of characters. Some are rather mysterious with unknown motives and others are just a little annoying. They could all use some development but I have a feeling that will come in Everlost.

The story is very fast paced and picks up very early on in the book. It takes no time to get back into Ash and Fin's world and it's nearly impossible to stop reading. So much goes on in Evergreen but there is still so much more to come in the third book. I'm happy to say that the ending was not a total cliffhanger and while the wait for the next book is going to be hard it won't be terrible.

Overall, Evergreen is a fabulous follow-up to Everblue and if you haven't checked out this series yet I recommend it. Brenda Pandos is a great author and I'm eager to read more from her.(less)

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Sep 05, 2012 Heather from NightlyReading rated it 4 of 5 stars

I was nervous at first about trying to jump back into the world of the Mers after having read book one so long ago! But, Evergreen just jumps right back into the story and the reader feels like they had never left.

The book starts off with Ash and Fin being separated with Fin off to Florida and Ash going back to school. The reader really gets a sense of how much these two care for each other. It is hard for them to be apart from each other for three days with out them thinking about one another c...more

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Jun 29, 2012 Renee rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: summer-2012, 2012-reading-challenge

Jumping back into the lives of Fin and Ash in the world of Natatoria was like coming home. Some may say like a ship pulling into port. Fin's overwhelming charisma (which had me laughing at moments) along with Ash's tenacity and spunk truly endear me to their story and tribulations. The second book in the series is very well-paced and kept the pages turning. Every chapter revealed a new incite into the plot, characters, and facts in regard to life as a mer. I was happy with the amount of action a...more

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Sep 10, 2012 Anna Tee (The Bursting Bookshelf) rated it 4 of 5 stars

I was completely thrilled and grateful when I got the news that I had been invited to be a part of the blog tour for Evergreen (for those of you who are new, or just don't remember, I participated in the tour for Everblue and the Onyx Talisman as well). I loved the first book of the series and I couldn't wait to dive straight into this one. When I did, I found myself not loving it quite as much as I loved the first one.

As always, the cover is simply gorgeous, following the tradition about Brenda...more I was completely thrilled and grateful when I got the news that I had been invited to be a part of the blog tour for Evergreen (for those of you who are new, or just don't remember, I participated in the tour for Everblue and the Onyx Talisman as well). I loved the first book of the series and I couldn't wait to dive straight into this one. When I did, I found myself not loving it quite as much as I loved the first one.

As always, the cover is simply gorgeous, following the tradition about Brenda's covers. I really love the cover model's eyes in this picture, the way they are so vibrant and well made up. Also visible is a headdress of sorts, beautifully setting off the lack of other jewellery with the exception of the ring. The makers of this cover didn't just pay attention to the bigger details, though. They also put in small ones like the reflection of the trees in the water. I hope on the next cover that we'll get to see Fin instead of Ash, but as long as it follows the beauty of the first two, I'll be a happy book blogger.

Ash and Fin were the two characters whose points of view were used to narrate the novel. I tended to enjoy Ash's side of the story more simply because it seemed like more of the action happened to her instead of him. Both characters were relatively the same as they were in the first book, though both seemed to get a tad bit more distant from their families. Relationship-wise there wasn't a whole lot of growth between Ash and Fin, but that was to be expected with the long distance nature that their relationship retained throughout the majority of the book. One fact I'd like to highlight is the fact that their romance is of the instant variety, though it is a well justified sort of instant love that I didn't end up minding. The lesser characters were great to read, too, but some of them were able to elicit stronger reactions from me than others (namely, Colin).

My biggest concern with this book was the writing. Though Brenda's writing is usually stellar, this time it just didn't quite keep up to her standards. That being said, it wasn't a terribly written book, but just not a particularly greatly written one. The story continued right from where Everblue left off without any stop or break before getting into the action. So far in this series, the story has been well balanced between the two books without creating a stereotypical sequel. Though I'm not usually a fan of books containing the instant love I mentioned above, this one seemed to pull it off with more grace than most books are able to. Whether that can be attributed to the story or the characters, I'm not sure, but I did enjoy it nonetheless. I can't wait to read the next book in the series to find out how the story of the star crossed ends and how the series wraps itself up.

I'd recommend this book to anyone in the mood for a book featuring a different paranormal creature or who have read and enjoyed any of Brenda's other works. I will be continuing this series when the next book comes out, but until then I give Evergreen a 3.5/5 for, unfortunately, not quite living up to it's predecessor.(less)

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Jul 05, 2012 Kathy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: mermaid, read-2012

3.5

While I enjoyed this one, I think I liked the first book a little more. This book picks up where the last book ended. Fin and Ash are separated. Fin is on the run with his parents and Ash is attempting to live her normal high school life. They have to deal with their separation with minimal contact. I got a little frustrated with all the secrets. I mean, if you’re supposed to be so in love shouldn’t you trust your partner with anything? I guess it’s just to add some tension, but it did bother...more

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Jul 08, 2012 Sarah (Catching Books) rated it 4 of 5 stars

After the cliffhanger ending of Everblue (the first book in this series)..I couldn't wait to read Evergreen! This book definitely didn't disappoint and it made me like this series even more.

The romance between Ash and Fin is SO sweet! I was rooting for them to be together all throughout this book. Even though they were apart, you could just tell my by their phone conversations that they both truly love each other and would do anything to be together. They hit some bumps along the way..but in the...more

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Jul 10, 2012 Howard Parsons rated it 5 of 5 stars

There MUST be some sort of "Mer Mojo" in this book because once I opened it, the covers of my Kindle were glued to my hands. I had promised myself that I would take it one chapter at a time but that went by the boards quickly and I wanted to send my wife over to her mother's for the week-end so I could read this in one marathon sitting. No food. No naps. The only time I'd stop would be for bathroom calls. Fortunately, none of that happened . . . for the most part. I don't know HOW Brenda Pandos...more There MUST be some sort of "Mer Mojo" in this book because once I opened it, the covers of my Kindle were glued to my hands. I had promised myself that I would take it one chapter at a time but that went by the boards quickly and I wanted to send my wife over to her mother's for the week-end so I could read this in one marathon sitting. No food. No naps. The only time I'd stop would be for bathroom calls. Fortunately, none of that happened . . . for the most part. I don't know HOW Brenda Pandos does it but she does it very, very well and the reader would be well advised to strap themselves in and prepare for the ride of their life.

Consistency - in anything - is difficult and as is often the case, the second book in a series is not quite as good as the first. The reader need not worry about this happening with Evergreen; This book is just as good as the first but for different reasons. In Everblue, there is the requisite exposition by way of introducing characters and world-building wrapped up in a very compelling story. Evergreen allows Brenda Pandos to take what she created in the first book and give it all a good workout where assumptions are tossed into the proverbial cocked hat and quite a bit of what you thought you knew turns out to be wrong to one degree or another. This is what helps to make the second book in the Mer Tales series a success.

Then, there are the two main characters; Ashley Lanski and Finley Helton, a.k.a. Ash & Fin. Ash is a young woman of seventeen years and a member of her school's swim team. Fin is a Mer-boy and used to live with his parents next door to Ash. Together, they are promised to each other; a bit of Mer magic that binds the hearts and souls of two people from the moment of their very first kiss. Forever after, any significant separation can be gut-wrenching and emotionally trying, especially in the early part of their new relationship. Mononucleosis is a breeze compared to this.

Fin and his parents are on the run from the decidedly unsavoury elements of their politically deteriorating Kingdom known as Natatoria. Their destination is Boca Raton, Florida - the home of Florida Atlantic University - where Ash plans to attend school on a swimming scholarship. Ash is looking forward to a possible trip to the Olympics and a quiet college career on the FAU swim team where the most excitement will probably come from a bit of sub-aquatic snogging with Fin. As the story progresses, that becomes less and less likely. Ash will learn that sometimes, choices we thought we had are made for us and, most poignantly, that there is no going back from some things & gains are often accompanied by losses. Fin will learn that he doesn't have quite as many options as he believed and that talking on the phone with Ash for too long can be hazardous to his health.

Evergreen is a YA-friendly book with enough thrills and excitement to keep older readers enthralled as well the young. Brenda Pandos teaches her YA readers about overcoming fear, enduring love, fidelity and hope. I cannot give this book any higher recommendation than this; It is a compelling and exciting book with endearing characters. If humans want an idea of the pain of separation that those who are promised to one another must endure, then they should by all means read Evergreen and then try waiting until the next book in the series comes out in 2013.(less)

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Sep 24, 2012 Amy (Amy's Book Den) rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: mermaids

Evergreen picks up where Everblue left off. Fin and his family have left their home and are on their way to the safe house in Florida. They’re doing their best of keeping their secret, but the lakes/ponds they have to stop at each night are becoming increasingly dangerous. Some have contaminated waters and other have too many humans around who might see them transform. Fin is doing his best to keep in touch with Ash, trying not to lose his mind in the process because the bond they now have make...more Evergreen picks up where Everblue left off. Fin and his family have left their home and are on their way to the safe house in Florida. They’re doing their best of keeping their secret, but the lakes/ponds they have to stop at each night are becoming increasingly dangerous. Some have contaminated waters and other have too many humans around who might see them transform. Fin is doing his best to keep in touch with Ash, trying not to lose his mind in the process because the bond they now have makes being apart literally painful for them. However, for all that they love and care for each other, they keep lying to each other.

I still have mixed feeling about this sequel and it mostly has to do with these three things: 1) Ash’s attitude (more on that below), 2) the overall defeatist feeling of the book, and 3) some icky characters. This turned out to be one of those books where everything—and I mean e-ve-ry-thing—goes wrong for our heroes. I wouldn’t have minded so much if a little reprieve or two had been woven in, but ever twist and turn brings on worse events. As a reader, I was exhausted and pretty much depressed for Ash and Fin.

On top of all the misery there’s Ash’s attitude. Though it irked me sometimes, I got why she continually pined for Fin. It’s a result of the bond. I get it. It doesn’t mean I didn’t get tired of hearing her whine all the time. Also, I was kind of thrown with Ash’s strong dislike and lack of patience with her school friend Georgia. I don’t remember Ash hating her in the first book. Again, I get it that the bond is making Ash crazy for Fin, but going as far as saying that her friend ruined all her plans for the future was a bit harsh. There were also comments like this all around…

“There was no way I’d share my Fin time with her. Maybe it was time to finally tell her I had a boyfriend.”

Maybe it bothered me so much because she turned into one of those girls. You know, the ones who drop a friend in a second once they get a boyfriend. Ash goes as far as saying she would have to glamour Georgia a boyfriend so that she’d have something to occupy herself with. Seriously? You want to give your friend a fake boyfriend so that she leaves you alone? Not cool.

Some new characters appear in this book that I didn’t like at all. Fin’s uncle and cousin come back and seriously bring on the creepy and icky feelings. There’s a mer-princess involved that really got on my nerves, and I mean REALLY. Even Ash’s mom made me want to fling the book away. Add anger to exhaustion from reading everything go wrong, and you see why I have mixed feelings.

Overall Fin was the best character, the one that kept me reading. I now think Ash doesn’t deserve all his love, care, and devotion. She needs to grow he hell up. As for the story, the final twists and revelations were great. It was a good mystery to keep through the whole book and I never saw it coming. Even though this sequel and I didn’t click, Mer Tales is still one of my favorite mermaid series and I’ll be waiting for book 3.
(less)

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Evergreen (Mer Tales #2)

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