Promises

Aug 31, 2012 Nickle [NightOwlReads] Love rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-reading-challenge, tbr-challenge, tbr-challenge3, july2012-faes-and-mers, 2012-paranormal-fantasy

Read my review at my blog, Night Owl Reads

May 02, 2013 Majanka rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: book-tours, reviews-april-2013, young-adult, paranormal-romance, mermaids

Review originally appeared here: http://www.iheartreading.net/book-rev...

Promises is the first book in the Syrenka Series. I’ll read and review all of these books during April. It was a bit of a surprise jump starting to read the series because I had no idea what to expect. Mermaids, yes, but well, that hardly covers any ground. I expected these books to be good though because I’d heard about them before. Well, I wasn’t disappointed – at least not by this one (I’m still reading book two, and hav...more Review originally appeared here: http://www.iheartreading.net/book-rev...

Promises is the first book in the Syrenka Series. I’ll read and review all of these books during April. It was a bit of a surprise jump starting to read the series because I had no idea what to expect. Mermaids, yes, but well, that hardly covers any ground. I expected these books to be good though because I’d heard about them before. Well, I wasn’t disappointed – at least not by this one (I’m still reading book two, and haven’t gotten started on book three yet).

Eviana is the oldest daughter of the Dumahl clan, a mermaid clan run by her mother. She’s supposed to follow in her mother’s footsteps as a clan leader. The clans are pretty much stuck in the eighteenth century with arranged marriages and ceremonials much resembling old royal balls. Either way, Eviana is to marry the soon-to-be leader of the Matthews clan, Kain. While Kain has feelings for her, Eviana is actually in love with Brendan, a selkie. She doesn’t want her arranged marriage to take place so she comes up with a plan to escape along with Brendan. They live happily for a while, until Brendan is attacked by a group of selkies and his skin is stolen. Afraid she might lose him forever, Eviana gets in touch with Kain and her old friends to ask for their help. But she might be up against something a lot more terrifying than she thought possible.

I liked Eviana. She was an interesting, unique character. I liked her mermaids abilities, and how she’d just begun to grasp her powers. She’s very stubborn and also quite brave when it comes to protecting the people she loves. Although she has a lot of flaws as well, those only added to her personality, making her richer and more complex. Like when she risked everything to be with Brendan, I felt that was a very selfish move and the consequences slapped her straight in the head almost right away. I also really liked Kain. He’s a nice guy, but he can be tough when needed and he has all the qualities of a great leader. He can make tough decisions when he has to, and well, he’s just very powerful. Brendan was actually the opposite. I have no idea why Eviana is so head over heels for him, and I hope to see more of him in the next book because here it seemed like his personality just wasn’t all that developed yet. He was there, yes, but he went through things instead of actually doing things.

The other secondary characters were all right. I liked Carissa, and Daniel seemed all right as well, although Eviana and Daniel’s friendship seemed to have progressed overnight. Didn’t sound entirely too convincing to me.

What really drew me in here though, was the setting. The world of Syrenka is filled with wonderful creatures from ancient myths, ranging from mermaids to water sprites to selkies to kelpies and more. I enjoyed discovering this world and its rich culture and history. Plot-wise the book was all right as well, although the ‘great war’ thing came out of nowhere and some things happened a bit too conveniently.

All in all, I really enjoyed Promises and I’m looking forward to reading the next two books in the series.(less)

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Apr 04, 2013 Eustacia Tan rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Finally a self-aware heroine! I mean, she still has the "most powerful" thing going on, but at least she knows that she's been selfish.

Ok, let me back-up and explain. Eviana is the oldest daughter (and thus next-in-line) to one of the most powerful merfolk clans. That means that she's betrothed to Kain, this pretty nice guy that's in love with her. Unfortunately, she loves another - the Selkie Brendan, and to escape her marriage, they elope.

Unfortunately, she can't run away so easily. Although s...more Finally a self-aware heroine! I mean, she still has the "most powerful" thing going on, but at least she knows that she's been selfish.

Ok, let me back-up and explain. Eviana is the oldest daughter (and thus next-in-line) to one of the most powerful merfolk clans. That means that she's betrothed to Kain, this pretty nice guy that's in love with her. Unfortunately, she loves another - the Selkie Brendan, and to escape her marriage, they elope.

Unfortunately, she can't run away so easily. Although she was shunned by her mother (shunned = has never existed), her powers are way to strong to ignore. So someone is sent to attack Brendan and steal his seal-skin from him. Without the skin, he's doomed to a long and painful death. In desperation, she has to call the fiancee that she ran away from - Kain (and their friends).

I think it's a pretty powerful testament to how nice Kain is that he actually comes to help her. And I'm glad that by the end of the book, she realises how selfish she has been. (And even got a "shape-up" lecture) The character growth is my favourite part of the novel!

Apart from Kain, Eviana and Brendan, there are a bunch of other characters. There's her younger sister Marisol, who seems like she might turn to the dark side in the later books (rather than just being whinny), there's Carissa, a pretty Japanese mermaid who might have a thing for Brendan and so many more. These are just the good guys mind you. There are also those on the other side, and those that are in-between. In short, there are many many characters.

Because of the introduction of all these characters, the plot was quite short. It's very obviously the first book in a series, because I felt like the character introduction took slightly more precedence than the plot (but here is plot!).

If you like merfolk, forbidden love, and a love-triangle that doesn't quite exist (everyone knows how Eviana feels. Even Kain) you have to pick up this book. I'm so glad that there are more books that don't feel the need for the requisite love triangle - that alone is enough to entice me into reading the other books.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book as part of the Enchanted Blog Tours blog stop. I was not obliged to give a positive review in any way.

This review was first posted at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile (less)

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Aug 10, 2012 Celise Winters rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Please click here to read the full review!

Wow! Promises simply left me open-mouthed! This book is seriously one of the best I've ever read. Since I was little, I was always of fan of mermaids. The ocean fascinates me, with all its mysteries and wonders, so much so that I always spent my time watching The Little Mermaid. I thought it was the best movie ever. But, don't get me wrong. I never once imagined that fish and lobsters and seagulls were singing while in the water. I wasn't that gullible.

S...more Please click here to read the full review!

Wow! Promises simply left me open-mouthed! This book is seriously one of the best I've ever read. Since I was little, I was always of fan of mermaids. The ocean fascinates me, with all its mysteries and wonders, so much so that I always spent my time watching The Little Mermaid. I thought it was the best movie ever. But, don't get me wrong. I never once imagined that fish and lobsters and seagulls were singing while in the water. I wasn't that gullible.

So, it's no surprise for me that Promises was such a good book! I haven't read a mermaid book in awhile, but I liked Mrs. Garr's version of mermaids. Mermaids who can control humans? That sounds pretty cool! When I imagined mermaids, I thought of girls who longed to be human. But these merfolk were quite different. They had wealth, influence, and control over humans! Frankly, I loved these merfolk(although since I'm a human, I shouldn't be too happy).

The main character was Eviana. Let me just mention something quickly. I love the name Eviana! It's not one I've ever heard, but the name certainly befits a mermaid. It's very unique. Now, let's move onto the character herself. I thought Eviana acted a tad childish for her age(17-18). But then again, she does live the life of a spoiled heiress. But, boy is she in for a surprise when her world comes crumbling down. I won't say anymore, lest I ruin the book.

Speaking of boys, there were two very yummy guys in this book. Kain and Brendan. Apparently, most of the mermen are hotties, and I'm completely alright with it. Although my heart strayed sometimes towards Kain, the sexy heir, I just couldn't get enough of Brendan, the selkie. Sort of a forbidden love. He was just too cute and mature. I thought he was good for Eviana. Plus, I always think an older guy is hotter, and he was already 21(Kain was around 18/19)!

All I can say about Promises is that you need to get your hands on it! It was an amazing book with a beautiful cover(for all of you out there who judge a book by its cover). And who doesn't love mermaids?(less)

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Aug 09, 2012 Tee loves Kyle Jacobson rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012-summer-must-reads, blog-tour-review, aug-2012

Promises is a FABULOUS read! Once I started reading it I could not put it down. I had to continue reading to see what would happen. I have the honor of being on The Syrenka Series Blog Tour and I have to say this series so far is AMAZING. There is something about Mermaids and Mermen that draws you in and you can't help but want to read and read until you get to the end. In Promises there are so many twists and turns you would have never thought but the way Amber weaves her story makes it fit nic...more

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Jul 31, 2012 Dawnandwini rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Wow what would you do when you have to choose between love and duty ? when you are forced to choose between the life you have always known or the life that you actually want. Promise is a story about Eviana a mermaid who is betrothed to another mermaid named Kain. Kain has been infatuated with Eviana since child hood and cannot wait to start a new life with Eviana. The only problem, she is in love with someone else. Actually this is a forbidden type of love because Eviana has given her heart to...more

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Jul 29, 2012 Dawn ross rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Wow what would you do when you have to choose between love and duty ? when you are forced to choose between the life you have always known or the life that you actually want. Promise is a story about Eviana a mermaid who is betrothed to another mermaid named Kain. Kain has been infatuated with Eviana since child hood and cannot wait to start a new life with Eviana. The only problem, she is in love with someone else. Actually this is a forbidden type of love because Eviana has given her heart to...more

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Jul 27, 2012 Tifferz rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Promises was my first story about mermaids and other creatures. I felt Promises was a breath of fresh air. The story line was awesome and Eviana was typical 18 year old. Eviana makes some choices that she thinks are the best for her. But are they really? I really felt for Eviana and Kain. Kain is a rock and as the story unfolds I like him all the more. Brendan I am not sure how I feel about him. As I read this amazing story I found myself swallowed up and surprised by the things that unfolded be...more

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Apr 05, 2012 Avry15 rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, paranormal-romance, fiction, young-adult, reviewed

originally appeared on:Bookshelf Confessions

First, I’d like to say that I loved the cover. It fits wonderfully into the theme of the novel.

“Promises” is the first book of The Syrenka Series trilogy following Eviana and her friends through the perils of clan wars, tragedies and immense loss.
I admit that it’s easy to predict the storyline in the first chapters, but soon I’d find a lot of unexpected turns and twist that left me stunned and emotionally affected. And from there, I was totally hooked...more originally appeared on:Bookshelf Confessions

First, I’d like to say that I loved the cover. It fits wonderfully into the theme of the novel.

“Promises” is the first book of The Syrenka Series trilogy following Eviana and her friends through the perils of clan wars, tragedies and immense loss.
I admit that it’s easy to predict the storyline in the first chapters, but soon I’d find a lot of unexpected turns and twist that left me stunned and emotionally affected. And from there, I was totally hooked with the story.

What makes the story so relatable and enjoying to read is Ms. Garr’s writing. I enjoyed reading the conversations, and she made the story flow naturally.
I enjoyed the author’s description especially how these sea creatures change from human form to their magical form. It’s easy to picture it happening. I enjoyed the mermaid lore and other stuffs about them. This is actually my first mermaid novel and I was not disappointed.

This book is a love triangle, and even though it was Brendan that Eviana loves, I find Kain to be charming and lovable. With Eviana’s narration, it’s easy to see that she has a mounting feeling for Kain, which makes Kain almost the center of the book. There was more detail on him than Brendan, but I hope to learn more of Brendan in the next book too.

Eviana meanwhile, even though I want to smack her most of the times, her character was developed as the story goes on. In every situation she was put in, she grows and learns something from it.

The ending of this book meanwhile is a little too-happily-ever-after for me. But the excerpt of the second book takes that feeling back and replaces it with thrill and excitement..:)

All in all, Promises is a great book to start The Syrenka Series. I was deeply absorbed with the book from beginning til end. YA Romance mixed with sea folklores and legends make “Promises” a unique book that is fascinating, engaging and over-all a must-read!

Highly Recommended to everyone!..:)

P.S.There is a free excerpt of the Chapter 1 of Betrayal , the sequel at the back of the book. It promises another Eviana and Kain moment, and a little bit creepy…:)
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Jan 31, 2012 Erika rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-in-2012

Title: Promises (The Syrenka Series #1)
Author: Amber Garr
Number of Pages: 276
Date of Release: December 7th, 2011
Summary From Goodreads:

Sometimes following your heart can end up destroying the ones you love.

When seventeen-year-old Eviana Dumahl is faced with the responsibility of an arranged marriage and clan leadership, she is forced to choose between the life required of a mermaid and one of a teenage girl simply infatuated with the wrong guy. Kain, her devoted fiancé would make a wonderful hu...more Title: Promises (The Syrenka Series #1)
Author: Amber Garr
Number of Pages: 276
Date of Release: December 7th, 2011
Summary From Goodreads:

Sometimes following your heart can end up destroying the ones you love.

When seventeen-year-old Eviana Dumahl is faced with the responsibility of an arranged marriage and clan leadership, she is forced to choose between the life required of a mermaid and one of a teenage girl simply infatuated with the wrong guy. Kain, her devoted fiancé would make a wonderful husband except that she’s been in love with Brendan, a shape-shifting selkie, ever since they were kids. Choosing to abandon her family, her clan, and her life with Kain will have dire consequences far beyond anything she could have imagined.

A war is brewing amongst the clans and Eviana unwittingly becomes a pawn in the intricate schemes of a twisted mastermind. With Brendan’s life on the line, she has no choice but to involve those who she once considered friends. Amidst encountering senseless tragedies and immense loss, Eviana discovers that she is more valuable as a clan leader than anyone ever suspected. Her survival is not only dependent upon the loyalty of her friends, but also on her acceptance of a life that she had so adamantly tried to escape.

Promises is the first book of The Syrenka Series trilogy following Eviana and her friends through the perils of growing up in a discrete world that inherently threatens human society.

Review: I don’t even know where to begin in this review! Let’s start with the cover that I cannot take my eyes off of. The design is not only breathtaking but also fits flawlessly with the novel. I am always leery of mermaid stories, because I haven’t had a good history with them. I was not expecting Promises to take me on such a ride! Promises is a breathtaking debut, that will leave your heart aching for Eviana. Amber Garr’s writing is effortless and the refined way she writes, left me needing more.

Eviana, has a sweet name, who has read a book with a character with that name before? I know I haven’t and I liked the originality. Anyways, I thought being trapped between two guys would make her kind of a well not nice person who I would hate to read about. That so didn’t happen and I loved every minute of her narration. The way Amber portrayed her as a character and the situations she put her in, was what made the novel. Seeing how Eviana was being forced to marry Kain, I expected him to be kind of dull, but man oh man was he HOT! There are things that he said to Evianna, that I just keep thinking about and man oh man that rarely happens. Not only that but he is one of the sweetest guys I have read about in a long time. Brendan while I knew was really sweet held back a lot, and it was that which made me a Kain fan instantly, but as you read on the favorite, kind of blurs. So now I have no idea which one is my favorite I am so TORN!!

So while I did anticipate some of the key plot points, it didn’t bother me because it was the minor conversations and events in those points that were such a surprise. Like I mentioned before, there is just something so effortless and lyrical about Ambers writing style and I can’t quite put my finger on it yet, but I love it. Another cool part of the novel was the legends and folklore that was added in on all of these creatures that you have only ever briefly heard of. I really liked that element and it made Promises truly unique. The only thing I really disliked was how Promises sucked me in and then spit me out! HOW COULD YOU DO THAT TO ME AMBER! I really need more, right now I am like a junkie waiting for my next fix.
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Jan 03, 2012 Mandy (I read Indie) Anderson rated it 5 of 5 stars

Eviana is absolutely in love with her boyfriend and would love it if her parents would lay off her and just let them be. But there is just one little problem, Eviana is a mermaid and Brendon is a selkie. Oh yeah, she is also engaged to marry another merman, Kain. So you see, things are a little complicated for her. But all of that is just the half of her problems. When Eviana and Brendon run away to be together; things go from bad to worse for the couple. Will the family she turned her back on h...more Eviana is absolutely in love with her boyfriend and would love it if her parents would lay off her and just let them be. But there is just one little problem, Eviana is a mermaid and Brendon is a selkie. Oh yeah, she is also engaged to marry another merman, Kain. So you see, things are a little complicated for her. But all of that is just the half of her problems. When Eviana and Brendon run away to be together; things go from bad to worse for the couple. Will the family she turned her back on help her in her time of need? Will the one person she left at the altar forgive her enough to help the man she loves? And what role does Eviana play in the war raging between the clans?

This is my second book about mermaids, mermen and selkies and let me tell you…I love me some underwater mystical creatures! Eviana is torn between the love of her life and doing what is right where her family and clan are concerned. But love wins out when she and Brendon run off together. The only thing was her relationship with Brendon, like she stayed with him just because she has always been with him. I liked Brendon, I really did, but the author spent more time and detail on Kain, and Eviana’s mounting feelings for him. To me I felt that she was really starting to have real feelings for him, other than friendship. And I was hoping that she would stick around for him.

The story line is pretty predictable at first, but soon twists and turns are thrown at you, leaving you heartbroken or sorta shocked. The author did a fantastic job describing the change process for both the selkies and the mermaids, although the selkies are kinda weird with their skins and all. But everything was enjoyable to read none the less.

Promises is a really good book about following your heart and doing what is right, not only for yourself but for others as well. So glad to have been offered the chance to read this story and be welcomed into Eviana's world. Great characters and an intriguing stroryline makes me a happy girl! So much so, I am eagerly anticipating book 2 in the series, Betrayal.

Oh and there is a sneak peek at chapter 1 of Betrayal at the back of the book and let me tell you its not only encouraging for Eviana and Kain, but creepy too. *squeeee*

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Feb 21, 2012 Jmbswim rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I liked this book. I really did; however, there were a lot of things that bugged me. This book isn't really well known, but a lot more people should read it! It is only 99 cents on Kindle and iBooks. You should go buy it. Now.

This is, you guessed it, a mermaid book. It starts off with out main character named Evania who has been in love with a selkie but is promised to another merman who she is not as in love with so she decides to run away with him and that leads to chaos. Brendan, the selkie,...more

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Sep 07, 2012 тɛяɛƨα ℓσʌɛƨ ℓαмв cнσρƨ rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

[More of a rant than review]

I do not know where to start with this book.

But lately, I've been getting into indie reads and trying to discover something awesome, particularly in supernatural or folklore stuff, something as good as Angelfall.

But it turns out not every indie read can be expected to be as good as a debut as Susan Ee's book.

When I first read the blurb/summary for this story, I thought, sure, why not? It's a mermaid/selkie story and I haven't read anything fishy since the Little Merma...more

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May 27, 2012 Erica rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

First off the covers for this trilogy are really beautifully done.

I happened to win the first two installments of this trilogy in a competition on Gravetells (an awesome website that reviews paranormal genre books - check it out)

The book is about Mermaids and Selkies (seals/shapeshifter), this is not usually a genre I go for but after recently reading the Warriors of Poseiden series by Alyssa Day I was already in a watering/sea mood.

So far I have to say the story is very well written, the plot...more

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Jul 19, 2012 Jordan Erika rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: won, e-copy

This is the first time I've encountered mermaids since...I guess Disney's The Little Mermaid when I was five! For all the faults I'm about to list, I have to say that I really did enjoy it.

Getting into Promises is a little hard. It's fast paced, but the beginning is so slow I had to push myself to keep reading it. I think it was the style of writing. It was so strange...forced really. It was like Garr was just trying to get it over with so it could get to the stuff that mattered. Definitely bec...more This is the first time I've encountered mermaids since...I guess Disney's The Little Mermaid when I was five! For all the faults I'm about to list, I have to say that I really did enjoy it.

Getting into Promises is a little hard. It's fast paced, but the beginning is so slow I had to push myself to keep reading it. I think it was the style of writing. It was so strange...forced really. It was like Garr was just trying to get it over with so it could get to the stuff that mattered. Definitely because it seems to shift from formal to informal so frequently throughout the book. There's stiff descriptions and then single fragments like "Whatever."

The characters are a bit the same. I realize they are young and forced into a situation beyond their years, so at times they act/talk their age and then the next they've got a stick up their butts. Still, there are times when it makes sense (such at when they're at Cotillion being all regal) and then random moments later when they seem to change into totally different types of people instantly. It also makes for a bit of confused dialogue. The characters don't have distinct voices all the time because it's all so formal in those moments, so the only way you can tell who it is is if it says who's speaking at the moment. I actually thought Eviana was talking once when she wasn't...

Eviana. Beautiful name, but it can be a mouthful. I prefer when Brendan calls her Evs. She's got fight in her. That much is clear from the start. She's a leader that doesn't want to be and is forced to be. Pretty standard. The love triangle though. That can be annoying since she seems so stupid about it. She vehemently attests to loving Brendan when she's clearly got the hots for Kain.

I liked Kain because he cares about Eviana and makes allowances for her in many ways. Even though he's angry with her after what she does, I think it's more the stress he's under himself rather than him just not loving her anymore. I don't think he blames her so much once he realizes it was mostly because her parents kept her pretty stupid to mermaid politics/history/everything she essentially needed to know based on her position in the clan.

Brendan...I'm hoping more of his character develops in the next book since he was mostly in the background of this one.

My favorite character was actually Abhainn, but I also hated him the most too. He's the most developed of the bunch, maybe just because he's given a Scottish accent so (most of the time, at least) it's clear who he is. He's also got an air about him that simply makes him distinctive even in those moments where his accent apparently disappears. However, his character pretty much serves as a cop-out for all the action and adventure you want and expect. Sure, magic/magical people tend to do this, but he takes it to the extremes so that our main characters essentially don't have to do anything but wait and let the bad guys come to them/instantly escape at need. Major letdown.

I personally felt like it was written with the feel of long short story/novella that tells the history and events that led to...whatever is going to happen in the second book really. I've started the second book, and it's already so much better at pulling you into their world than this one is. Still, I did really like this book for all it's faults. I'm looking forward to finishing the series. (less)

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May 13, 2012 Rachel at theJeepDiva rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

If only I was born a mermaid. ‘sigh’ I really enjoyed this book. I haven’t read any mermaid books before so when this opportunity came forth I was excited. I really enjoyed this story. I give this story four stars.
In the world that Amber created, mermaids live on land like you and me but when they enter water they transform into a mermaid. This is also how the selkies (shapeshifters who turn into seals) are. If only the Little Mermaid had lived in this world she would have been happy.
World - I...more If only I was born a mermaid. ‘sigh’ I really enjoyed this book. I haven’t read any mermaid books before so when this opportunity came forth I was excited. I really enjoyed this story. I give this story four stars.
In the world that Amber created, mermaids live on land like you and me but when they enter water they transform into a mermaid. This is also how the selkies (shapeshifters who turn into seals) are. If only the Little Mermaid had lived in this world she would have been happy.
World - I love the world created by Amber Garr. The descriptions are vivid and the scenery beautiful. The different mythological creatures in this story was brought together masterfully. I love a book that reminds about all the different creatures that you have heard mentioned but you dont always hear alot about. In this story there are naiads and water sprites in addition to the selkies and mermaids mentioned.
Characters – I really like Kain in this story. I think he is my favorite. He seems like an awesome guy and he is totally in love with Eviana. He seems like he will be a good leader for his clan. Brendan seems like a nice guy but it doesn’t seem like Eviana and Brendan would be good together permanently. Who knows though? I am kind of on the fence for Eviana. I like her at times and other times I want to shake her and ask what she thinks she is doing. She can’t make up her mind about the two boys who love her and ends up hurting them both. She is sometimes hurtful and selfish but then again so are some teens as well so this does make her seem more realistic. I must bring up Eviana’s mother in all of this also. I don’t understand why you wouldn’t prepare your daughter and tell her what is going on in the mermaid world. She leaves her daughter completely ignorant and unprepared. Eviana is the next in line for clan leadership of her mothers clan. Once she marries Kain she would help him run his clan and her younger sister would be next in line for their mothers clan. Towards the end though you really start to see Eviana's character develop towards becoming a great adult and leader.
Plot – The story keeps you reading and interested. I didn't want to put it down but sadly had to go to work. You are introduced to the world as Eviana knows it at the beginning then you begin to find out other details that she was not aware of as she learns them also. Eviana was not told about a possible war brewing or who she should stay away from. She has to wing it at times. When Eviana goes to the Cotillion she is presented with Kain as her fiancée. She starts to find out that she is unprepared for the politics that go along with being a leader as she was not told anything. She encounters some strange mermaids there but also makes new friends. When tragedy strikes Kain’s family the marriage is moved up and Eviana is sent into a panic. The decisions that were made by Eviana and Brendan seemed realistic to me for the problems they faced. When Brendan is injured Eviana must turn to her past friends for help. When tragedy also strikes Eviana she really starts to shape up. I think I will like her better in the second book. The ending of this book I felt was good it wrapped a lot of things up and at the same time left you waiting for the next book. It was a good story and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
I would recommend this book and this series to anyone who loves mermaids or just a good fantasy story. I am looking forward to book two in The Syrenka Series, Betrayal.(less)

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Mar 06, 2012 Valerie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

3.5 stars.

I really enjoyed reading this book! Are mermaids going to be the new vampire? Perhaps. Hope to be able to get more background on all these water creatures in the next book because I really love hearing the mythology.

One problem I have is that this is a young adult book. I know that's what it's supposed to be and I don't have a problem with that at all. However, because it is geared towards young adults, specifically older teens, I feel a major disconnect from the characters and their...more

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Apr 23, 2013 Francine rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: april-reads

"Sometimes following your heart can end up destroying the ones you love.

When seventeen-year-old Eviana Dumahl is faced with the responsibility of an arranged marriage and clan leadership, she is forced to choose between the life required of a mermaid and one of a teenage girl simply infatuated with the wrong guy. Kain, her devoted fiancé would make a wonderful husband except that she’s been in love with Brendan, a shape-shifting selkie, ever since they were kids. Choosing to abandon her family,...more "Sometimes following your heart can end up destroying the ones you love.

When seventeen-year-old Eviana Dumahl is faced with the responsibility of an arranged marriage and clan leadership, she is forced to choose between the life required of a mermaid and one of a teenage girl simply infatuated with the wrong guy. Kain, her devoted fiancé would make a wonderful husband except that she’s been in love with Brendan, a shape-shifting selkie, ever since they were kids. Choosing to abandon her family, her clan, and her life with Kain will have dire consequences far beyond anything she could have imagined.

A war is brewing amongst the clans and Eviana unwittingly becomes a pawn in the intricate schemes of a twisted mastermind. With Brendan’s life on the line, she has no choice but to involve those who she once considered friends. Amidst encountering senseless tragedies and immense loss, Eviana discovers that she is more valuable as a clan leader than anyone ever suspected. Her survival is not only dependent upon the loyalty of her friends, but also on her acceptance of a life that she had so adamantly tried to escape.

Promises is the first book of The Syrenka Series trilogy following Eviana and her friends through the perils of growing up in a discrete world that inherently threatens human society."

When I first got this book I wasn't too sure if I'd like it, there has only been one mermaid-type series to truly grip me and that would be the Of Poseidon series by Anna Banks.

But wow, was I wrong or was I WRONG? Mrs. Garr created such an amazing story with a plot that kept making me wonder what was going to happen.

Eviana Dumahl is the next in line for clan leadership, and getting married to Kain. Unfortunately she has absolutely no interest in either, she's in love with her childhood best friend, Brendan. Did I mention he was a Selkie?

To be honest, when Mrs Garr first introduces Brendan into the mix, I didn't really feel a pull towards his and Evi's cause. I understand the whole "love of my life" thing, but when Kain came into the picture, I knew which way I was casting my vote.

I finished the book under a day, but it left me wanting more so I was compelled to grab the next book in the series right away.

FOUR STARS! A beautifully written book. (less)

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Oct 20, 2012 Chasity rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

‘Promises’ was the first mermaid novel I have ever read, and I have to say I was majorly impressed. I just may be hooked on them now, that is if they turn out to be as good as Amber Garr’s writing. ‘Promises’ was such a thrilling story; I read it in two days which honestly it probably would have only taken me a day if I had not had to work. Simply because I just didn’t want to put it down.

Eviana’s story is just so engaging and refreshing. It sucks you in from the beginning. Eviana is the eldest...more ‘Promises’ was the first mermaid novel I have ever read, and I have to say I was majorly impressed. I just may be hooked on them now, that is if they turn out to be as good as Amber Garr’s writing. ‘Promises’ was such a thrilling story; I read it in two days which honestly it probably would have only taken me a day if I had not had to work. Simply because I just didn’t want to put it down.

Eviana’s story is just so engaging and refreshing. It sucks you in from the beginning. Eviana is the eldest daughter to one of the most powerful mermaid clans. She is about to turn eighteen and here parents have arranged a marriage for her, to Kain. The son of the other most powerful clan, his father is very ill and Kain will need to take over in a matter of time. Once they are married they can rule the clans together, like intended.

Eviana is very upset about this entire situation not only does she not want to be in charge but she does not want to marry Kain. Sure he’s practically perfect but he’s not Brendan.
Brendan is Eviana’s true love; however he is not a mermaid, which causes major problems for everyone. He is a selkie, a shifter. Mermaids and selkies don’t belong together they have different mating rules. Her parents forbid her to see Brendan and Brendan has to hid his relationship, so the question is how far will Brendan and Eviana go to be together and what will be the cost?

I have to say I really sympathize for Eviana and I understand why she does everything she does to be with Brendan but however I do have to admit I have a soft spot for Kain and a big part of me wanted Eviana to just give in and marry him. Honestly part of me is still hoping she takes her place beside him :D

Anyways I loved the plot; it wasn’t what I call a repeat plot. Where you pretty much know what’s going to happen just with new characters and a slight difference. No this was fresh and I had no idea what was going to happen, I loved the amazing sea creatures that she brought to life, I had never even thought of that.

I definitely cannot wait to read more of this series and since I have the other two already downloaded, I won’t have to wait long, so check back for the reviews on those!
Amber Garr had definitely earned a spot on my favorites list, and I will be reading everything she comes out with!
(less)

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May 10, 2012 Nilsa rated it 5 of 5 stars

Promises is a WONDERFUL book! I read it in one sitting, because I couldn't put it down. I love stories with mermaids and mystical sea creatures, so I totally got wrapped in the story from page one!

Promises is a book about a girl named Eviana (Mermaid) who is to marry a Merman named Kain. Their marriage was arranged when they were just kids...but now that Eviana is old enough to understand LOVE and commitment, she rebels against this age old custom and follows her own heart which belongs to Brend...more

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Aug 06, 2012 Stephanie Ward rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: for-review

'Promises' is a fun and thrilling first book of the Syrenka trilogy that brings mythological sea creatures to life. It focuses on Eviana, our heroine, as well as her boyfriend Brendan and her friends. After running from her duties to her merfolk clan, Eviana is faced with serious circumstances and must figure out what is happening between the clans and how to stop the war that is threatening to erupt. What Eviana discovers will change her life forever.

I found this to be a fast-paced, fun adventu...more

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Aug 29, 2012 Christina Madison rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011-2012, ebooks, fae-elves-pixies, mermaids-sirens-nymphs-nixies

Full review here: http://zodiacbookreviews.blogspot.com...

For anyone in a young love relationship, nothing else matters and responsibility and duty fly out the window. It's no different for Eviana Dumahl, next in line as leader of the Dumahl Clan, one of the strongest merfolk clans in the world. Forced into an arranged marriage to Kain Matthew, next in line as leader of the Matthew Clan, another of the strongest merfolk clans, by her parents, Eviana plans to run away with Brendan, who is a shape...more Full review here: http://zodiacbookreviews.blogspot.com...

For anyone in a young love relationship, nothing else matters and responsibility and duty fly out the window. It's no different for Eviana Dumahl, next in line as leader of the Dumahl Clan, one of the strongest merfolk clans in the world. Forced into an arranged marriage to Kain Matthew, next in line as leader of the Matthew Clan, another of the strongest merfolk clans, by her parents, Eviana plans to run away with Brendan, who is a shapeshifting selkie and her boyfriend.

Eviana knows that it's selfish to run away from her family, her clan, her fiance, and her duties. She knows that her choice will hurt some and anger a lot. But what she doesn't know is that her choice has more dire consequences than she ever thought possible. An all-out war is brewing between the merfolk clans--and Eviana is unwittingly caught in the middle. Eviana will need to find the strength to rise to her place as leader of her clan and fight back--for all their sakes.

Something I wanted to point out was how Eviana, once she was informed of the war and internal clan struggles, said that if she had known of everything from the beginning, she would have made a different choice. I personally don't think she would have. This statement was made by an Eviana who grew and matured from who she was when she chose to run away. Eviana knew how important her role and duties within the clan were, even without the finer details, and she still ignored it all and only thought of herself. That is not a good trait in a leader--a leader thinks of her people first and herself last. Though Eviana grew from her experiences, it was too little, too late to prevent the consequences of her choice.

If I had to choose between Kain and Brendan, I would choose Kain, hands down. I felt so bad for him in the beginning, I wanted to give him a giant hug. It must be painful to love the girl you're engaged to marry and know that she'll never love you back. You know how in fairytales the princes has to be pure of heart to wake the sleeping princess? I like to think of Kain as being pure of heart, only his princess refuses to wake up. He tries to show Eviana the benefits of marrying him and the good it would do both their clans, but Eviana refuses to see. Kain is sweet, loving, and has so much strength. He really cares about his people--a great leader in the making! Toward the end, I felt Kain was right in his anger against Eviana--she ditched him on their wedding day! And what really irritated me was that she felt she had the right to feel hurt by his behavior toward her. I wanted to slap some sense into her. Though we don't see much of Brendan in Promises, I still feel I would choose Kain in the end.

The war brewing is between a group of merfolk who feel it is their right to use the Legacy they were gifted with, and those who feel it is wrong to use it. What is the Legacy, you ask? It is a gift the merfolk have to basically control other sea creatures (selkies, water sprites, nixies, kelpies) and humans. Those who think it is right to use the Legacy view themselves above everyone and see themselves as gods. Now what does Eviana have to do with all this? Eviana discovers she has a very strong, if not the strongest, ability to use the Legacy. Now both sides want her on their side of the war. As Sutherland said, Eviana is the key to, not only the two strongest clans, but also to winning the war.

The first chapter preview to book two, Betrayal, left me wanting to read more right away. I can't wait to see what happens next for Eviana and her friends, and the fate of all merfolk and sea creatures alike. (less)

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Aug 10, 2012 Amber Garza rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012-challenge

There were many things I loved about this book. First off, I really enjoyed all the mermaid folklore. The book was filled with many mythical creatures – water sprites, selkies, kelpies, merfolk, shape shifters. Garr did an amazing job of creating another world for me to explore in and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I found myself whisked away into an imaginary realm. I also am a total sucker for fobidden love and love triangles and this book had both! The pacing was great and I read through the book q...more

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Jul 25, 2012 Rebekah rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: self-pubbed-books-of-awesome

Originally posted at Reflections of a Bookworm

What worked: The cover completely drew me in but before I read Promises, I had never read a mermaid book before but if the rest of the series is anything like this book, I'm in for a treat! Amber really has a talent for conjuring up really vivid scenes in your imagination and I have to say that I'm Team Kain all the way. I found the world and hierarchy's that Amber created were really intriguing and I loved all of the characters, especially Kain of c...more

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Mar 26, 2012 Latoya rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Evianna is a fantastic character, though she seemed a bit preoccupied with herself sometimes.It is action packed and loaded with twists and turns, as soon as it seems one thing is going to happen, something completely unexpected takes place. Kain, one of the male love interests is the most likeable of the two for me, because he is willing to sacrifice so much for her even though she doesn't love him. The other fella Brendan, just wasn't feeling him that much. Now, the reason is there is somethin...more

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Dec 04, 2012 YA Reads Book Reviews rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: nichole

Originally posted on www.yareads.com, reviewed by Nichole.

Sometimes following your heart can end up destroying the ones you love.
When seventeen-year-old Eviana Dumahl is faced with the responsibility of an arranged marriage and clan leadership, she is forced to choose between the life required of a mermaid and one of a teenage girl simply infatuated with the wrong guy. Kain, her devoted fiancé would make a wonderful husband except that she’s been in love with Brendan, a shape-shifting selkie, ev...more Originally posted on www.yareads.com, reviewed by Nichole.

Sometimes following your heart can end up destroying the ones you love.
When seventeen-year-old Eviana Dumahl is faced with the responsibility of an arranged marriage and clan leadership, she is forced to choose between the life required of a mermaid and one of a teenage girl simply infatuated with the wrong guy. Kain, her devoted fiancé would make a wonderful husband except that she’s been in love with Brendan, a shape-shifting selkie, ever since they were kids. Choosing to abandon her family, her clan, and her life with Kain will have dire consequences far beyond anything she could have imagined.
A war is brewing amongst the clans and Eviana unwittingly becomes a pawn in the intricate schemes of a twisted mastermind. With Brendan’s life on the line, she has no choice but to involve those who she once considered friends. Amidst encountering senseless tragedies and immense loss, Eviana discovers that she is more valuable as a clan leader than anyone ever suspected. Her survival is not only dependent upon the loyalty of her friends, but also on her acceptance of a life that she had so adamantly tried to escape.
Promises is the first book of The Syrenka Series trilogy following Eviana and her friends through the perils of growing up in a discrete world that inherently threatens human society.
At seventeen-years old a lot is expected of Eviana Dumahl. She’s expected to become a clan leader, marry Kain, and have children all within the next few years. Unfortunately for everyone else, Eviana is determined to be with her one true love, Brendan, who is not a fellow Syrenka. Eviana’s mother, the clan leader, does not approve of Brendan and makes it clear from the get-go that Eviana is going to marry Kain whether she likes it or not. So, naturally, Eviana and Brendan make a plan to run away together, leaving their families and friends behind forever.
Once Eviana and Brendan travel half way across the world to get away from their families, things seem to be so much better. While times are now tough, they have eachother, which is all they ever really needed. But things take a dark twist when someone steals Brendan’s seal skin, something he needs in order to survive. Now Eviana must face her fears and call upon the people that she left behind in order to save Brendan’s life.

I was first attracted to Promises because of how gorgeous the cover is. I love the blue-greenish colors that make up the cover. I also really liked the idea of the syrenka, or mermaids. I’m not an overly HUGE mermaid fan, so I was a tad nervous to begin reading Promises, but I just had a feeling that it was going to be good.
The first….50 or 60 or so pages of Promises were a little slow for my taste. I thought I knew everything that was going to happen in the book, so I set myself up for early disappointment. Honestly, I almost set the book down, because there really is no action in the beginning parts of the book. There was a specific part of the book, though, that absolutely changed my opinion. All of a sudden all of these things that I never expected to happen were happening. Action scenes started to become more frequent and intense, and I was on the edge of my seat throughout a large chunk of the book.
There were many times that I wanted to compare Amber Garr to authors such as Richelle Mead or Anna Banks. While their writing styles and storylines are very different, I could tell that Garr had that extra spark that I like my writing to have. She didn’t quite reach the potential that I know she has in her in Promises, but I’m definitely expecting it as the series progresses. I was really impressed with how Garr completely blindsided me on what happened throughout the book. I expected Eviana and Brendan to get caught before they could run away together, Eviana to marry Kain right away, and no action to happen whatsoever. I was prepared for it, and I was going to set the book down as soon as it happened. I don’t even know how to explain what DID happen. It was great. It was brilliant. It was just…..entertaining and shocking.
I did have a bit of a problem with how everyone was just always….naked. I think it bugged me the most when Eviana was naked in front of her parents and it was just supposed to be normal. I get that that was the Syrenka life style or culture, but I was a little creeped out by that factor. Thankfully, it didn’t happen very often. There were really only two parts that seriously bugged me. 1. the parent’s section in the beginning and 2. when all the kids get out of the water at the end and walk around naked. It was weird. It didn’t take away from the story or the writing, but it was weird.
I also found it interesting how I am not a fan of Brendan at all. I am 100% team Kain and that will never ever ever change. I found Brendan to be too soft and whiney for my taste. I guess he really didn’t whine during the book, I just kind of associated the term with him. I expect a lot from Kain in the future books. I don’t know how it’s all going to play out, but I really hope he’s the one that Eviana chooses. I’m not a big fan of love triangles, because I don’t really see the point. The author obviously knows who the main character is going to ultimately end up with, and I would just rather see that relationship progress. Let’s be honest, most of us don’t get two hunky guys fighting for our attention on a regular basis. Love triangles usually do one or two things for me. 1. they upset me because I already know what’s going to happen or 2. they make me insanely angry like the love triangle between Rose/Dimitri/Adriane in Richelle Mead’s Vampire Academy series. I just want to see the original relationship play out.
Overall, I was a big fan of Promises. I would definitely recommend it to fans of Anna Banks. I would also recommend it to fans of Indie Author, Leigh Michael. The characters and plot were very strong, and it was a intense read that I’m going to hold on to for a very long time. I cannot wait to read more from Amber Garr!
Pages: 251
Publication Date: December 7th, 2011
Publisher: Self-published
Rating: : 3.5

Teaser Quote: “Once I slide into the back seat, I held the bottle up in front of me, searching for Abhainn. We were on the road heading to my hotel when a tiny face suddenly appeared pressed against the side of the clear plastic. I almost screamed and dropped my new friend, but recovered quickly enough to avoid disaster.”(less)

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Aug 10, 2012 Debdatta Dasgupta Sahay rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: review-copy

“Promises” is the first book in the Syrenka trilogy, followed by Betrayal & Arise.

Eviana Dumahl is like any other girl, living with her doting father, a dominating mother and a irritating younger sister. She goes to high school and dates a guy named Bredan. But what most people do not know about her is that her she belongs to one of the strongest clans, she is the future ruler of the clan, she is engaged to Kain Matthews who is also destined to be the ruler of his clan and her boyfriend is a...more “Promises” is the first book in the Syrenka trilogy, followed by Betrayal & Arise.

Eviana Dumahl is like any other girl, living with her doting father, a dominating mother and a irritating younger sister. She goes to high school and dates a guy named Bredan. But what most people do not know about her is that her she belongs to one of the strongest clans, she is the future ruler of the clan, she is engaged to Kain Matthews who is also destined to be the ruler of his clan and her boyfriend is a shape shifting selkie. And Oh! She is a mermaid!! Eviana has been promised to Kain as a way of bringing the two strongest of merpeople clans together. Kain has been in love with Eviana for like forever. And all this while Eviana has been in love with Brendan. But there’s a war brewing and Eviana finds out just how much is on the line when Bredan’s life is threatened. She is forced to grow out of her teenage life and take control. Will she be able to embrace the life she wanted nothing to do with? Will she be able to rely on the friends she once let down?

Look at the cover… isn’t it amazing?? Now, I officially like mermaids!

Ms. Garr has built the most scintillating world with mermaids, selkies, water sprites and many more creatures. Though lacking major action towards the beginning, the climax steals the show. The plot builds up slowly giving us ample idea about the major characters that are going to play important roles in the trilogy. The setting and the dialogues are well done. Author’s attention to detail is amazing – I especially like the way she has described the different species, their lifestyle and their transitions.

Coming to the characters, Eviana is a normal teenage girl, making me feel like shaking her a number of times and say ‘what’s wrong with you?’ She refuses to accept the decisions made by her parents for her and rebels against them. She is utterly in love with Brendan, but at the same time she has a strong connection and very deep feelings for Kain. Having practically grown up together, she feels that Kain is the best friend anyone can have. We see a lot of Kain too. He seems to be matured for his age and though he is scared, he is almost ready to take his position as the leader of his clan. Even before he assumes this role, we know that he would be good at it. However, I found his plan of action to deal with the Eviana – Brendan situation bit immature – that is the only weakness that Kain shows – Eviana. I am yet to make up my mind about Brendan. Especially with the ending that this book has, I don’t think I like Brendan. He loves Eviana, no doubt and they do have a few weeks of complete bliss. But there is something that is holding him back.

Overall, I am mesmerized by the merpeople and intrigued about the brewing war. I am looking forward to betrayal now – I have to know what happens next!(less)

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Aug 16, 2012 Disincentive/Feta rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: review

Read my review and enter a huge giveaway here: http://disincentive-reviews.blogspot....

I picked this book to review because I heard a lot of good things about it and also the name of the series made me smile. Syrenka is a polish word for mermaids!

I see that almost everyone loves mermaid books. This is the second book of that type I read and so far… YES! YES! YES!

I loved the world Amber created. It’s full of magical creatures and amazing characters. Some are crazy, some are caring and some are...more

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Feb 17, 2012 Alice Belikov First lady Ivashkov rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I am happy to say that 'Promises' was my first mermaid book and I enjoyed it! Amber Garr did an AMAZING job creating this magical world of mermaids, nymphs, water sprites and Selkies. I fell in love with all of the characters they played a great roll in the story/plot.

The Plot:
Seventeen year old Evianna Dummahl is a mermaid that just wants to live her life, her way. That is clearly impossible for Eviana because she is next in line to be clan leader of her tribe and she also is being forced to ma...more

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Aug 20, 2012 Tien rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: blog-tour, young-adult, paranormal

I’m pleased to read this book as it is my first mermaid book and it was a wonderful experience. I love that events unfolded one right after the other and twists were un-ending. I don’t particularly know what to expect from a mermaid book; as in there are certain thing I’d expect of a vampire / werewolves but aside from tails and being able to swim like a fish, I’d have no idea what to expect in terms of power, race protocols / cultures, etc. So, it was a fascinating read into another world of my...more

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Promises (Syrenka #1)

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