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Mer Chronicles #1
Mythos
Mermaids, rival species hell-bent on revenge, and a magical ring capable of stopping an impending war are just a few things David Cooley did not expect to find on his Spring Break jaunt to the Bahamas. A little sun, sand, and surf was how he imagined he would spend his vacation. But fate had other plans in store for him—death and destruction, heartache, and true love.
Faren Sands is everything he has ever wanted in a companion. She is beautiful, kind, mysterious, and has… fins? But she is also forbidden, risking execution if her government ever catches her fraternizing with a human.
Despite the danger, and rivaling all that David has ever known to be reality, Faren shows him a way of life far beneath the surface of the sea he never knew existed. She puts off a sweet scent that wards off sharks and can speak to dolphins in their own language. Faren uses camouflage as a defense and can read minds at will, a gift David ultimately inherits from her.
Atlantis—fictitious island created by a great scholar or historic landmark now sheltered beneath the sea floor? David finds out the hard way, sometimes you can believe what you read in storybooks. And Atlantis is only one of many cities tragically devoured by the vast Atlantic thousands of years ago.
Because of David and Faren’s budding romance, he can breathe underwater as if on land. He can swim faster and see better beneath the surface of the sea than any other human. But with these magical gifts come the sours. A cold war raging between the mers and sea demons is on the verge of exploding, hurling David into the midst of an age-old feud, and forcing him to make the toughest decision of his young life. Does he stay and fight for a civilization that hates him or turn his back on Faren, Atlantis, and the monsters dominating the waters around the Bahamas, doomed to regret his decision for the rest of his days?
Just as the couple thinks their situation cannot get any worse, an unexpected enemy betrays them the first chance they get. Once their forbidden relationship surfaces, the couple flees Atlantis's High Council to an island crawling with sea demons to escape persecution, but they cannot hide out for long. With an epic battle exploding around them, their future looks bleak, their unbreakable bond fragile for the first time.
Mythos proves fate to be a cruel temptress, leading lovers down winding paths only to tear them apart, and it soon becomes obvious that David and Faren may not live long enough to see another sunrise.
Faren Sands is everything he has ever wanted in a companion. She is beautiful, kind, mysterious, and has… fins? But she is also forbidden, risking execution if her government ever catches her fraternizing with a human.
Despite the danger, and rivaling all that David has ever known to be reality, Faren shows him a way of life far beneath the surface of the sea he never knew existed. She puts off a sweet scent that wards off sharks and can speak to dolphins in their own language. Faren uses camouflage as a defense and can read minds at will, a gift David ultimately inherits from her.
Atlantis—fictitious island created by a great scholar or historic landmark now sheltered beneath the sea floor? David finds out the hard way, sometimes you can believe what you read in storybooks. And Atlantis is only one of many cities tragically devoured by the vast Atlantic thousands of years ago.
Because of David and Faren’s budding romance, he can breathe underwater as if on land. He can swim faster and see better beneath the surface of the sea than any other human. But with these magical gifts come the sours. A cold war raging between the mers and sea demons is on the verge of exploding, hurling David into the midst of an age-old feud, and forcing him to make the toughest decision of his young life. Does he stay and fight for a civilization that hates him or turn his back on Faren, Atlantis, and the monsters dominating the waters around the Bahamas, doomed to regret his decision for the rest of his days?
Just as the couple thinks their situation cannot get any worse, an unexpected enemy betrays them the first chance they get. Once their forbidden relationship surfaces, the couple flees Atlantis's High Council to an island crawling with sea demons to escape persecution, but they cannot hide out for long. With an epic battle exploding around them, their future looks bleak, their unbreakable bond fragile for the first time.
Mythos proves fate to be a cruel temptress, leading lovers down winding paths only to tear them apart, and it soon becomes obvious that David and Faren may not live long enough to see another sunrise.
260 pages, Paperback
First published December 15, 2013
2 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Heather McLaren
9 books28 followersHeather McLaren is a Cherokee/Greek writer that lives in southern Illinois with her husband, three children, and three grandchildren. She began her life in an unfortunate situation, much like thousands of children in this country. She was born to a fifteen-year-old mother who was too young to take care of her. After living in foster homes for two years, at the age of four, a loving couple adopted Heather, but feeling unwanted and rejected never left her mind. Who was she? Where did she come from? But Heather was lucky to have found her new parents. They helped her realize her own potential. They told Heather the sky was the limit when it came to what she could accomplish in life.
Over the years, Heather’s struggles mounted. She escaped an abusive marriage and lost a baby to RH incompatibility before turning 21. On May 17, 2002, Heather gave birth to Kimber Liliana—a child whom the doctors said could never survive the stroke she had suffered in the womb. After seven long months in the neonatal wing at Cardinal Glennon and then Children’s Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, Heather brought Kimber home to the amazement of the doctors. Though Kimber is still bedridden from spastic cerebral palsy, she celebrated her eleventh birthday last May—a joyous event Heather never takes for granted.
At the age of twenty-six, doctors diagnosed Heather with bipolar disorder, but instead of giving in to her disease, she picked herself up, met and married her soul mate, and began writing fantasy novels. Heather McLaren wants others in her situation—either adopted and looking for answers, families of disabled children, or sufferers of mental illness—to see her own success story as evidence that life does prevail. They can have active and fulfilling lives no matter the difficulties they may face.
Heather's passion for writing began at an early age. As far back as she can remember, she wanted to publish a novel she could call her own. She wrote the outlines for books one (Mythos) and two (Beyond Legend) of the Mer Chronicles series during free time in tenth grade creative writing class, but it took many years for her to find the courage to send her completed novels to publishers. Now, that Heather has found her niche in today's literary world, she plans on bringing fantasy into the lives of our youth for years to come.
When asked if she created her characters to inspire others, Heather immediately had an answer. ABSOLUTELY! She wanted to embrace her husband's kind and protective nature, thus bringing David Cooley's character to life. (Her son) Bryce's loyalty shines through as David's best friend, and (her daughter) Charlie's innocent and inquisitive nature and (her step daughter) Dakota's playfulness triumph in future books. Heather's youngest child's bravery and determination to live despite her handicap was inspiration enough to immortalize her in black and white. By creating Cindel's character, Heather hopes that readers will see people with special needs as having the same potential as every one else.
Over the years, Heather’s struggles mounted. She escaped an abusive marriage and lost a baby to RH incompatibility before turning 21. On May 17, 2002, Heather gave birth to Kimber Liliana—a child whom the doctors said could never survive the stroke she had suffered in the womb. After seven long months in the neonatal wing at Cardinal Glennon and then Children’s Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, Heather brought Kimber home to the amazement of the doctors. Though Kimber is still bedridden from spastic cerebral palsy, she celebrated her eleventh birthday last May—a joyous event Heather never takes for granted.
At the age of twenty-six, doctors diagnosed Heather with bipolar disorder, but instead of giving in to her disease, she picked herself up, met and married her soul mate, and began writing fantasy novels. Heather McLaren wants others in her situation—either adopted and looking for answers, families of disabled children, or sufferers of mental illness—to see her own success story as evidence that life does prevail. They can have active and fulfilling lives no matter the difficulties they may face.
Heather's passion for writing began at an early age. As far back as she can remember, she wanted to publish a novel she could call her own. She wrote the outlines for books one (Mythos) and two (Beyond Legend) of the Mer Chronicles series during free time in tenth grade creative writing class, but it took many years for her to find the courage to send her completed novels to publishers. Now, that Heather has found her niche in today's literary world, she plans on bringing fantasy into the lives of our youth for years to come.
When asked if she created her characters to inspire others, Heather immediately had an answer. ABSOLUTELY! She wanted to embrace her husband's kind and protective nature, thus bringing David Cooley's character to life. (Her son) Bryce's loyalty shines through as David's best friend, and (her daughter) Charlie's innocent and inquisitive nature and (her step daughter) Dakota's playfulness triumph in future books. Heather's youngest child's bravery and determination to live despite her handicap was inspiration enough to immortalize her in black and white. By creating Cindel's character, Heather hopes that readers will see people with special needs as having the same potential as every one else.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
September 30, 2013
I'm new here, not really sure what I'm doing yet. But I read the free PDF version of Mythos, and I was impressed. Although Mythos is clearly fantasy, the author definately did her research. It comes alive as if it were on the big screen. There were so many twists, I couldn't wait to see what would happen next. And I loved her characters.They were so well rounded and original-easy to fall in love with. Mythos is a gripping underwater adventure I hated putting down. Can't wait for book two!!!
May 26, 2019
Mythos by Heather McLaren is a very readable Mer-fantasy set in the modern world. It falls into the New Adult sub-genre with late teen partying, and yet has a certain innocence in delivery which makes the drinking and sexuality less “in your face.”
While I am not generally a reader of Romance, I am a fan of good fantasy. The link here is good, as McLaren’s “Love at first sight” (in reality “The love I dreamed of fulfilled”) plot-line is not sickly or grating, but fits smoothly into the underlying fantasy genre. If this were a “real life” romance story, it might have been seen as unreal, but isn’t the “fanciful” why people read fantasy? I personally liked the blend.
The imagery of the author’s descriptions is rich, and yet not excessive. The underwater world is particularly vivid. There are some great moments of tension, and the action and battle scenes believably written.
Some of the principle character, David’s teenaged companions (and Spring Break encounters) are types and/or stereotypes of young adults, but they work as plot devices and remain believable.
This is a quality “first work,” by the author and well worth a read for anyone into the Mer genre or of Fantasy more generally.
While I am not generally a reader of Romance, I am a fan of good fantasy. The link here is good, as McLaren’s “Love at first sight” (in reality “The love I dreamed of fulfilled”) plot-line is not sickly or grating, but fits smoothly into the underlying fantasy genre. If this were a “real life” romance story, it might have been seen as unreal, but isn’t the “fanciful” why people read fantasy? I personally liked the blend.
The imagery of the author’s descriptions is rich, and yet not excessive. The underwater world is particularly vivid. There are some great moments of tension, and the action and battle scenes believably written.
Some of the principle character, David’s teenaged companions (and Spring Break encounters) are types and/or stereotypes of young adults, but they work as plot devices and remain believable.
This is a quality “first work,” by the author and well worth a read for anyone into the Mer genre or of Fantasy more generally.
January 11, 2015
I think I had posted this review on another edition of the book, but then I deleted that edition from my books because it was a duplicate without thinking that I would lose the review. So anyway, if you had already read my review of Mythos, this is the same text.
When I first opened Mythos, I thought it was going to be a love story in a fantasist setting. At least that was the impression I had from the summary at the back and the interview of Heather McLaren I had watched. Because of that, I was at first a little disappointed by the lack of details about how David and Faren fall in love for each other. It seemed to me like it happened way to fast. But then I realized that instead of complaining because the story was not what I thought it was, I had to appreciate it for what it really was: to me, it is not a love story with fantasy, but a fantasy story with a couple as main characters. Understand the difference?
Now that that is established, I really enjoyed reading Mythos. The pace is great: slow enough in the beginning to set the story, and as the problems arrive and the whole plot unveils, it picks up.
I loved the underwater world created by McLaren, especially because it was actually the lost city of Atlantis that had sunk and using a real fact made the story more believable. Plus, I’m a real fan of mermaids and the whole Atlantis legend, so… it was kind of the perfect setting.
The book was really original in that it does not take a long time for David to accept that Faren is part of a whole other world, and he doesn’t really reject her, as it may have been in other mermaid books. Instead of focusing on the relationship between two very different individuals, the problem is that they need to be accepted for who they are and who they want to be with by their peoples. I think this is a nice hidden way to speak about issues like acceptance of homosexuality, in that their love is not accepted by everyone and they have to find a way to deal with this. But this is not the only social issue spoken about in this book: the character of Cindel is a great example of a different person that finally finds her place and purpose.
One thing that I have to criticize about though is the fact that the sea demons, the means guys, were really created to destroy the mers and they don’t have any other purpose or way of thinking. There is no grey in this fight; the mers are white and the demons are black. It is a little hard to believe that not a single sea demon stopped to think about the reason for what they we doing. Also, having a whole group of people created only to cause trouble to another group is considering them like a tool, a weapon, and therefore less important beings. The mers have no problem at all in killing them. I understand that they are their enemies, but even then they should have had at least some concern in taking the life of someone else.
Other than that, I think that Mythos was really impressive, especially since it is Heather McLaren’s first published novel. Her writing is just amazing: she makes you feel like you are there. You can feel that she wants to tell readers about issues that she cares about while telling an entertaining story. I recommend this book for anyone who likes fantasy mixed up with our daily world.
When I first opened Mythos, I thought it was going to be a love story in a fantasist setting. At least that was the impression I had from the summary at the back and the interview of Heather McLaren I had watched. Because of that, I was at first a little disappointed by the lack of details about how David and Faren fall in love for each other. It seemed to me like it happened way to fast. But then I realized that instead of complaining because the story was not what I thought it was, I had to appreciate it for what it really was: to me, it is not a love story with fantasy, but a fantasy story with a couple as main characters. Understand the difference?
Now that that is established, I really enjoyed reading Mythos. The pace is great: slow enough in the beginning to set the story, and as the problems arrive and the whole plot unveils, it picks up.
I loved the underwater world created by McLaren, especially because it was actually the lost city of Atlantis that had sunk and using a real fact made the story more believable. Plus, I’m a real fan of mermaids and the whole Atlantis legend, so… it was kind of the perfect setting.
The book was really original in that it does not take a long time for David to accept that Faren is part of a whole other world, and he doesn’t really reject her, as it may have been in other mermaid books. Instead of focusing on the relationship between two very different individuals, the problem is that they need to be accepted for who they are and who they want to be with by their peoples. I think this is a nice hidden way to speak about issues like acceptance of homosexuality, in that their love is not accepted by everyone and they have to find a way to deal with this. But this is not the only social issue spoken about in this book: the character of Cindel is a great example of a different person that finally finds her place and purpose.
One thing that I have to criticize about though is the fact that the sea demons, the means guys, were really created to destroy the mers and they don’t have any other purpose or way of thinking. There is no grey in this fight; the mers are white and the demons are black. It is a little hard to believe that not a single sea demon stopped to think about the reason for what they we doing. Also, having a whole group of people created only to cause trouble to another group is considering them like a tool, a weapon, and therefore less important beings. The mers have no problem at all in killing them. I understand that they are their enemies, but even then they should have had at least some concern in taking the life of someone else.
Other than that, I think that Mythos was really impressive, especially since it is Heather McLaren’s first published novel. Her writing is just amazing: she makes you feel like you are there. You can feel that she wants to tell readers about issues that she cares about while telling an entertaining story. I recommend this book for anyone who likes fantasy mixed up with our daily world.
May 22, 2014
Mythos: Mer Chronicles, Book 1, is a delightful fantasy romp under and above the ocean that propels listeners/readers through mystical lands. With a strong nod toward The Little Mermaid, this story goes far behind that particular movie's theme, which was slated for a younger audience, and would be appropriate for those kids who watched the Disney classic as children, but are now teens or older. Note: There were a few violent scenes which made this not appropriate for sensitive or younger readers, such as bodies without limbs, a bloody war scene, etc, but most of this story is magical and beautiful.
The characters were distinct and memorable, which strong voices and natural dialog. Told from various points of view, the reader/listener is brought into the current day life of a young mermaid ("Mer"), named Faren Sands, who falls for a human, much to her father's dismay. But there's much more than just a star-crossed lovers' story here, it's about various species, their links to Atlantis and more, and their centuries-old feud that leads to an ultimate bloody battle on the beach.
My favorite character was Faren Sands little sister, Cindle (sp? I listened so I'm not sure of spelling!), a sweet and brave young lady with intellectual challenges and a great big heart.
In addition to the romance, thrills, action, and great tension in this story, there is also a sprinkling of of poetry within its pages that moved me deeply, particularly some of the descriptions of the sea. It's clear that the author, Ms. McLaren, has a passionate relationship with the ocean, and the talent to share that love with her readers/listeners.
I also thoroughly enjoyed the heartfelt thank yous at the end of the book, which showed the author's love for her family.
Well done, Ms. McLaren. This is just the start of a what promises to be a very successful series!
The characters were distinct and memorable, which strong voices and natural dialog. Told from various points of view, the reader/listener is brought into the current day life of a young mermaid ("Mer"), named Faren Sands, who falls for a human, much to her father's dismay. But there's much more than just a star-crossed lovers' story here, it's about various species, their links to Atlantis and more, and their centuries-old feud that leads to an ultimate bloody battle on the beach.
My favorite character was Faren Sands little sister, Cindle (sp? I listened so I'm not sure of spelling!), a sweet and brave young lady with intellectual challenges and a great big heart.
In addition to the romance, thrills, action, and great tension in this story, there is also a sprinkling of of poetry within its pages that moved me deeply, particularly some of the descriptions of the sea. It's clear that the author, Ms. McLaren, has a passionate relationship with the ocean, and the talent to share that love with her readers/listeners.
I also thoroughly enjoyed the heartfelt thank yous at the end of the book, which showed the author's love for her family.
Well done, Ms. McLaren. This is just the start of a what promises to be a very successful series!
October 1, 2013
“Sorry for sounding like a traumatized parrot.” – This line made me laugh.
As for this story, I liked it a lot. I RARELY read fantasy stories like this and enjoyed this from start to finish. If you love action, then you will love this story. There are chases, battles on land, battles undersea, escape plans are executed, it’s just a ton of action packed into a fast paced book.
A romance between Fern and David takes place during a war of the mers versus the sea demons. David is human and Fern is a mer. I liked their personal stories and the romance plot more than the war plot, but still the war plot held its own. Besides action and romance, this book had a bit court room drama.
Another thing I liked about this book was the Ring of the Ancients .We were introduced to the item at the start of the book and towards the middle and end it played a necessary role. The ring was accompanied by a lot of mer mythology that didn’t confuse me. In most stories like this the Authors over explain or under explain backstories, but she did a perfect job explaining the reasons for the war and the mers’ history.
All the characters just had a modern feel to them and I loved the tropical setting. Having this take place during a Spring Break also added to the modern feel of the story, even though it dealt with an age old civilization of mers.
Her ending was as enjoyable as the entire story. The writing was great. I wish I could find something to complain about, but it was just a well put together book. I started thinking it was going to be a rip off of The Little Mermaid but I’m glad that I was wrong.
As for this story, I liked it a lot. I RARELY read fantasy stories like this and enjoyed this from start to finish. If you love action, then you will love this story. There are chases, battles on land, battles undersea, escape plans are executed, it’s just a ton of action packed into a fast paced book.
A romance between Fern and David takes place during a war of the mers versus the sea demons. David is human and Fern is a mer. I liked their personal stories and the romance plot more than the war plot, but still the war plot held its own. Besides action and romance, this book had a bit court room drama.
Another thing I liked about this book was the Ring of the Ancients .We were introduced to the item at the start of the book and towards the middle and end it played a necessary role. The ring was accompanied by a lot of mer mythology that didn’t confuse me. In most stories like this the Authors over explain or under explain backstories, but she did a perfect job explaining the reasons for the war and the mers’ history.
All the characters just had a modern feel to them and I loved the tropical setting. Having this take place during a Spring Break also added to the modern feel of the story, even though it dealt with an age old civilization of mers.
Her ending was as enjoyable as the entire story. The writing was great. I wish I could find something to complain about, but it was just a well put together book. I started thinking it was going to be a rip off of The Little Mermaid but I’m glad that I was wrong.
November 25, 2013
I haven't read many mermaid books, but now that I have read MYTHOS, I will be looking for more! What I loved about this book was how alive the ocean became for me. I felt like I was in the currents with Faren and David, swimming with them and falling in love with them. The love story is touching, and they each save the other several times. Their relationship is much more equal than in some other books I have read recently, and I really liked that.
But this book isn't just a nice love story, it is a complete world with multiple dangers lurking around every corner. There is a great battle scene with several kinds of mythical beings - and as with all battle scenes, there are painful losses. I loved how the author managed to turn loyalties and alliances - and I alternately hated and loved some of the characters. There is one character, Cindel, that I hope we will see more of in the next book - I loved her and want to know more!
The world of MYTHOS holds many surprises, and nothing is black and white. My favorite kind of read!
But this book isn't just a nice love story, it is a complete world with multiple dangers lurking around every corner. There is a great battle scene with several kinds of mythical beings - and as with all battle scenes, there are painful losses. I loved how the author managed to turn loyalties and alliances - and I alternately hated and loved some of the characters. There is one character, Cindel, that I hope we will see more of in the next book - I loved her and want to know more!
The world of MYTHOS holds many surprises, and nothing is black and white. My favorite kind of read!
February 9, 2014
I have been meaning to read this for a while. Having not read a lot of mermaid fiction, this put a new twist on one of the oldest themes of love stories, forbidden love. Faren is a mer (mermaid), and David is a human. Mer society forbids mers from associating with humans, let alone falling in love. At the same time, Sea Demons plot the destruction of Atlantis, the undersea homeland of the mers. In the middle of the approaching conflict, the two star-crossed lovers secret is exposed and if the mers don't kill them, the sea demons might.
The dialog gets a little overly sweat at times. One other drawback is the end is a little to deus ex machina, with human forces appearing out of nowhere to save the day. Still, for those who love mermaids, myths, and romance, it is a book well worth reading.
The dialog gets a little overly sweat at times. One other drawback is the end is a little to deus ex machina, with human forces appearing out of nowhere to save the day. Still, for those who love mermaids, myths, and romance, it is a book well worth reading.
May 26, 2019
Really wish I didn't spend over $20 on this book, it wasn't what I expected at all... I really hate insta-love, especially when I don't even know if I like the characters yet. It all happened so fast, and they seemed to be in more danger on land then in the water... For a mermaid book I found that so strange. The ending was ridiculous and just when I thought the big battle scene was finished... It got worse (even though I had a feeling it wasn't over). Would not recommend even if you like reading about mermaids.
October 16, 2013
I was given this book for a honest review from Paranormal Romance & Author Rock! I loved this book. I haven't been one on mermaids till this book. It take you on a journey of Faren and David. They fall in love but it is forbidden by the other mers. The sea demons wants Faren for other reasons. Will they be able to be together or will the sea demons win and kill them? I will give this book a 5 fang review it's a great read.
December 11, 2020
(Youtube Channel-Jennys Book) This book was amazing had me wanting to know what was going to happen next ...A lot going on with romance and Faryn life where she lives...Cant wait to read the second book. If you love mermaids 🧜♀️ this is one that would keep you entertain. Has good characters and easy to read and understand!
Currently reading
October 13, 2013It's exam time for me.... so I have barely started reading this!!
May 7, 2015
If you enjoy a good fantasy, check this out. I was intrigued by the world and character development. An enchanting read.
January 20, 2021
A well-written, ‘love at first sight’ fantasy, packed with intrigue, action, and descriptive imagery. I’m generally not a romance reader but couldn’t resist a book with so many excellent world-building comments. I thoroughly enjoyed being taken both above and below the sea for many beautifully written scenes where it was easy to get lost in the imagery. While swimming in this imagery, Faren and David fall in love and save each other numerous times, which kept the pages turning. The pacing matched the world-building, and there was a great combination of narrative and dialogue. I mostly enjoyed the nonstop action of wars, betrayals, and sea demons; Which smoothly flowed to an ending that ties everything up nicely and leaves the reader wanting much more. Highly Recommended!
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September 30, 2022Pass.
Not what I was looking for. This was more focused on the action than the romance, and that part was extremely mediocre, giving off a touch and go feeling. Otherwise if you're up for a clean, teenage adventure type of mermaid story, then this might appeal to you.
Personally, when you're more into dark romance, like me...I'm soooo in the wrong place with this book.
Not what I was looking for. This was more focused on the action than the romance, and that part was extremely mediocre, giving off a touch and go feeling. Otherwise if you're up for a clean, teenage adventure type of mermaid story, then this might appeal to you.
Personally, when you're more into dark romance, like me...I'm soooo in the wrong place with this book.
June 15, 2014
***This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review. The review originally appeared on Author Alliance.***
Mermaids. Atlantas. Selkies. There are a lot of legends surrounding the sea that have been told over the years. In Mythos, David, a young high school graduate takes a boat from Florida to Bimini with his friends before starting college. While there, he is attacked by a sea demon. The demon boards his boat (where he's out for a late night sail alone) and attacks him, dragging him under the water, trying to kill him.
Faren, a mer, saves his life. He doesn't see her, but she fights the demon and he's able to climb back on his boat and return to his hotel. From the first time she sets eyes on him, she knows that there is something special about him and so she risks everything to see him again. You see, human/mer relationships are illegal and Faren can be imprisoned for consorting with him.
Faren and David fall in love very quickly through stolen days together. But every night, Faren must return to the sea or risk death.
If their forbidden relationship weren't enough to deal with, the mer people and the sea demons are also at war. A long standing war that was "cold" and is now "hot". David and Faren end up caught in the middle.
I struggled a little with this book. It fell right on the cusp of 2.5 and 3 stars. In the end, I decided to go with three stars because it did hold my interest on an airline flight and make the time pass by quickly. But there are a few caveats I feel I should mention. Of course there are good things too.
So let's talk about the good.
I liked Faren. She's young, but she's strong and smart and courageous. Most of the mers are. There are jerks, like there are in every society, but for the most part, these were characters I could respect, even if some of their decisions were short-sighted and judgmental. Faren's sister was even spunkier.
David was a good character too. Strong, brave, and loyal. These are traits you don't often see in an eighteen year old kid. Though to be fair, this does go to one of the less than positive aspects of this review as well.
The battles were well done and exciting, even though there was a lot of back and forth and Faren and David seemed to get themselves into trouble a little too much.
Okay, onto the less than good. I have a problem with books that talk about soul mates when the main characters are eighteen. I'm probably a little cynical, but I don't think you can find your soul mate at that age. It's a little more acceptable when the characters are mythical, but even so, David is human. I'm all good with love at eighteen, but the idea of soul mates is a little hard to swallow.
The story itself could have used a little tightening. There were a few aspects that felt unresolved or fragmented. At one point, Faren gets shot in the leg with a dart. Now, when you read that, what do you think? She's going to be drugged, right? Poisoned? Able to be tracked by GPS or something? Nope. Nothing. It was just a piece of wood that was never explained again. Is this a typical sea demon weapon? Why? It certainly can't be very effective if it doesn't even cause her to limp overly much. There were a handful of issues of that ilk. Nothing so drastic that it made me stop reading or yell out, "PLOT HOLE!" But issues nonetheless.
Overall, this was a quick read, had some nice action, and a sweet love story. I enjoyed the ending. I'll recommend it, for I think the author worked hard on it and did a decent job. The style of writing wasn't my favorite, but it was well executed. Even though there were parts of the book I wasn't thrilled with, I can respect a decently written book and recommend it because we're all different. My issues may not be your issues and I don't want to deprive you of a nice, sweet book about mers and Atlantis.
Mermaids. Atlantas. Selkies. There are a lot of legends surrounding the sea that have been told over the years. In Mythos, David, a young high school graduate takes a boat from Florida to Bimini with his friends before starting college. While there, he is attacked by a sea demon. The demon boards his boat (where he's out for a late night sail alone) and attacks him, dragging him under the water, trying to kill him.
Faren, a mer, saves his life. He doesn't see her, but she fights the demon and he's able to climb back on his boat and return to his hotel. From the first time she sets eyes on him, she knows that there is something special about him and so she risks everything to see him again. You see, human/mer relationships are illegal and Faren can be imprisoned for consorting with him.
Faren and David fall in love very quickly through stolen days together. But every night, Faren must return to the sea or risk death.
If their forbidden relationship weren't enough to deal with, the mer people and the sea demons are also at war. A long standing war that was "cold" and is now "hot". David and Faren end up caught in the middle.
I struggled a little with this book. It fell right on the cusp of 2.5 and 3 stars. In the end, I decided to go with three stars because it did hold my interest on an airline flight and make the time pass by quickly. But there are a few caveats I feel I should mention. Of course there are good things too.
So let's talk about the good.
I liked Faren. She's young, but she's strong and smart and courageous. Most of the mers are. There are jerks, like there are in every society, but for the most part, these were characters I could respect, even if some of their decisions were short-sighted and judgmental. Faren's sister was even spunkier.
David was a good character too. Strong, brave, and loyal. These are traits you don't often see in an eighteen year old kid. Though to be fair, this does go to one of the less than positive aspects of this review as well.
The battles were well done and exciting, even though there was a lot of back and forth and Faren and David seemed to get themselves into trouble a little too much.
Okay, onto the less than good. I have a problem with books that talk about soul mates when the main characters are eighteen. I'm probably a little cynical, but I don't think you can find your soul mate at that age. It's a little more acceptable when the characters are mythical, but even so, David is human. I'm all good with love at eighteen, but the idea of soul mates is a little hard to swallow.
The story itself could have used a little tightening. There were a few aspects that felt unresolved or fragmented. At one point, Faren gets shot in the leg with a dart. Now, when you read that, what do you think? She's going to be drugged, right? Poisoned? Able to be tracked by GPS or something? Nope. Nothing. It was just a piece of wood that was never explained again. Is this a typical sea demon weapon? Why? It certainly can't be very effective if it doesn't even cause her to limp overly much. There were a handful of issues of that ilk. Nothing so drastic that it made me stop reading or yell out, "PLOT HOLE!" But issues nonetheless.
Overall, this was a quick read, had some nice action, and a sweet love story. I enjoyed the ending. I'll recommend it, for I think the author worked hard on it and did a decent job. The style of writing wasn't my favorite, but it was well executed. Even though there were parts of the book I wasn't thrilled with, I can respect a decently written book and recommend it because we're all different. My issues may not be your issues and I don't want to deprive you of a nice, sweet book about mers and Atlantis.
January 18, 2015
Question what you thought you knew.
It is no secret that I am a fan of Mermaids...and pretty covers. Never judge a book by its cover, I know but sometimes the cover does match what is on the inside. Mythos was an interesting take on the interaction between humans and mermaids, and the consequences of such interactions. This book was unlike any other Mer read that I have picked up before and that is saying a lot because I pick up as many of them as I possibly can. McLaren wove this tale wonderfully and created something that even a fanatic like myself, would be able to fall into.
The world building in Mythos was beautiful. McLaren brought the Bahamas to life and the underwater world was stunning. This is one of those reads that you can really see and almost feel where the characters are. Everything was just so vivid and easy to see. The pacing for the most part matched the world building and was wonderful. Things just seemed to fit, and flow to where it felt right. There were a few places that seemed a little bit on fast forward, but honestly for the most part it was perfect. This was one of those books that the very few flaws fly away because of all of the other amazing things packed into it!
David and Faren were wonderful together. They just worked and felt right, right from the start. Their interactions were not always perfect, but how could it be when they were always in danger of being caught. Actually to be honest, only Faren knew the danger that they were in by being together to start because David (like most humans) lived not knowing who/what he was really falling for. Their attraction was fairly quick and the fall was fast, but as you get more interaction it all just feels natural. Faren is not reliant upon David but she knows she wants him in her life, often trying to take him out of dangers way. Where Faren pushes him, David shows that he can stand for himself and actually even astounded me with his bravery. Actually, despite how fast he fell for her, David's feelings for Faren are unwavering. When he finds out what/who she is, he doesn't flip...mostly keeps his cool but his feelings don't change. There were times that their relationship was challenged and I felt that Faren let go a little easier but she didn't give up in the long run.
There is also a lot of action in this book, a lot going on. I appreciated the fact that McLaren, created Faren with the inner strength to stand up to the challenges that arose. However, I often found myself wishing she would believe in the strength that David had within himself as well, instead of seeing him as unable to help. I never wish for a character to rely on someone else but I also never wish for a character that can't see the strength within their partner. However, it was also the action that helped proved that human does not equal weak, even when we don't fully understand what is going on.
Mythos was a wonderful read, that ended in a way that will keep the wheels in my mind turning with possibilities for the next book. I admittedly loved the ending and found so much beauty in how everything was tied up. The wait for the next book is on and I can't say I am going to be exactly patient. The world, the characters and whatever comes next for all of them, is floating around my mind and pulling out possibilities. If you are a fan of Mermaids, action and wonderfully developed worlds, Mythos is not to be missed.
It is no secret that I am a fan of Mermaids...and pretty covers. Never judge a book by its cover, I know but sometimes the cover does match what is on the inside. Mythos was an interesting take on the interaction between humans and mermaids, and the consequences of such interactions. This book was unlike any other Mer read that I have picked up before and that is saying a lot because I pick up as many of them as I possibly can. McLaren wove this tale wonderfully and created something that even a fanatic like myself, would be able to fall into.
The world building in Mythos was beautiful. McLaren brought the Bahamas to life and the underwater world was stunning. This is one of those reads that you can really see and almost feel where the characters are. Everything was just so vivid and easy to see. The pacing for the most part matched the world building and was wonderful. Things just seemed to fit, and flow to where it felt right. There were a few places that seemed a little bit on fast forward, but honestly for the most part it was perfect. This was one of those books that the very few flaws fly away because of all of the other amazing things packed into it!
David and Faren were wonderful together. They just worked and felt right, right from the start. Their interactions were not always perfect, but how could it be when they were always in danger of being caught. Actually to be honest, only Faren knew the danger that they were in by being together to start because David (like most humans) lived not knowing who/what he was really falling for. Their attraction was fairly quick and the fall was fast, but as you get more interaction it all just feels natural. Faren is not reliant upon David but she knows she wants him in her life, often trying to take him out of dangers way. Where Faren pushes him, David shows that he can stand for himself and actually even astounded me with his bravery. Actually, despite how fast he fell for her, David's feelings for Faren are unwavering. When he finds out what/who she is, he doesn't flip...mostly keeps his cool but his feelings don't change. There were times that their relationship was challenged and I felt that Faren let go a little easier but she didn't give up in the long run.
There is also a lot of action in this book, a lot going on. I appreciated the fact that McLaren, created Faren with the inner strength to stand up to the challenges that arose. However, I often found myself wishing she would believe in the strength that David had within himself as well, instead of seeing him as unable to help. I never wish for a character to rely on someone else but I also never wish for a character that can't see the strength within their partner. However, it was also the action that helped proved that human does not equal weak, even when we don't fully understand what is going on.
Mythos was a wonderful read, that ended in a way that will keep the wheels in my mind turning with possibilities for the next book. I admittedly loved the ending and found so much beauty in how everything was tied up. The wait for the next book is on and I can't say I am going to be exactly patient. The world, the characters and whatever comes next for all of them, is floating around my mind and pulling out possibilities. If you are a fan of Mermaids, action and wonderfully developed worlds, Mythos is not to be missed.
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