Kiss of the Bionic Mermaid

by Leslie Dacapo

A theme park performer. Her billionaire boss. An off-limits romance threatening to dash them on the rocks.

When mermaid-themed amusement park Realms of Neptune is sold to a notorious job killer, Jayna Cooper rallies the cast to try an employee buyout. To show her determination, she pledges her winnings from an upcoming mermaid competition, the Manutai Merathlon.

Jayna is surprised when the park's new owner, the distractingly hot Obsidian "Sid" Hayes, not only agrees to consider the employee buyout, but also offers to help by flying Jayna to the competition - halfway around the world.

She reluctantly accepts the flight and is caught off guard by how different Sid is from the heartless villain she expected. He's as kind and funny as he is handsome, and the intense connection she feels with him is undeniable. Still, he's her boss, and they both know the damage that comes when a workplace liaison goes wrong.

But as they spend time together, their mutual attraction grows too strong to ignore. When their romance becomes public it draws fire from a vindictive ex and the scrutiny of friends, coworkers, and total strangers.

Can their love weather the storm, or will rushing into a relationship torpedo their professional reputations, sink the employee buy-out of Realms, and scuttle their shot at happily ever after?

“Kiss of The Bionic Mermaid is highly recommended for fans of the romance genre, especially those with an interest in light science fiction. The novel’s blend of imaginative settings, romantic tension, and a touch of futuristic flair ensures an enjoyable reading experience. For anyone looking to escape into a world where love and innovation intertwine, this book is a perfect choice.” Literary Titan Review

Genres: Romance

230 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2024

About the author

Leslie Dacapo loves laughing, kissing, and dreaming about the future (though not necessarily in that order), which is why he writes futuristic romantic comedy.

He supports his writing habit by working as a software engineering team lead. He has a Master's of Engineering degree in Project Management, which is helpful for both planning stories and squeezing every last drop of writing time from an overloaded schedule.

Leslie lives in the Kansas City area with his wife and special-needs daughter. They like to build LEGO, play "extreme Candyland", and road trip to visit his other daughter in New Mexico every chance they get. When not working, writing, or caregiving, Leslie enjoys bicycle riding, ukulele playing, and attending as many writers conferences as possible.

Kiss of the Bionic Mermaid is Leslie's debut novel. It’s the story of Jayna Cooper, the star mermaid performer at the Realms of Neptune theme park, and Obsidian Hayes, the handsome billionaire profiteer she soaked with her trademark Bionic Cannonball the day he bought the park.

Reviews

[Amelia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love this book! The dynamic between the characters was enjoyable to read. The balance between seeing the characters falling in love with each other and fighting their attraction made putting the book down hard as I deeply felt for them and understood why they were hesitant to be together. That did not stop me from SCREAMING at them to get their act together.

The addition of futuristic elements was the cherry on top as it added to the story's uniqueness. The world building was interesting as the book shows an evolution of devices, transportation and mermaid tails.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Avian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly an unexpected favorite book of the month. I got this through a goodreads giveaway (thanks goodreads). Not a fan of third act breakups but I still finished and liked the book. Will probably buy a print copy to put on my shelf.

[Savannah powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this on good read. And I’m going to be honest I didn’t think I would like it. But I LOVED it. I like how it’s in the future and I’m shocked a man wrote it! The love story was amazing and he is now on my top list of favorite authors!! I can’t wait for a new book from him!!!

[Teri Easterling · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun read with a few unexpected plot twists as it is set in the future. I would have liked some indication of the date closer to the beginning of the story. It took me a few paragraphs to realize that it takes place in the future.

The characters are believable, flawed human beings who often act on assumptions instead of facts, as many of us do. They were true to the expected character types of misunderstood wealthy man and working folk in their interactions and expectations.

The future travel modes and communication methods are interesting and fun. I wish we had them now!

I enjoyed the story and read it pretty quickly.

As a retired copy editor, a couple of minor typos jumped out at me. They did not detract from the story. I will let the author know about them.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks goodreads giveaway for the book. I enjoyed this book. Such a quick, light, fun read.

[Athena · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.

This futuristic romance has the following tropes:

Boss/employee
Insta-love
Miscommunication

I loved the futuristic touches to this story, but would have preferred that this was established earlier in the plot. However, the romance felt a little forced and not believable. The actions and dialogue between the two characters could have been portrayed smoother for a more realistic relationship.

With that being said, the overall story was enjoyable and it seems that the author has setup a second book for a standalone romance for another couple in the same world.

[Tanya Strong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kiss of the Bionic Mermaid is a sweet futuristic rom com.
I’ve never read a futuristic romance before but this one was fun!

This high tech romance wasn’t so out there that I couldn’t follow along. The writer described things in a way that made sense and I could picture the gadgets easily.

The romance between Sid and Jayna was sweet and complicated. I liked that they didn’t fight it too hard like in some books and their sweet kisses were total swoon.
But of course nothing goes perfectly smooth and soon drama strikes.
Fun, entertaining, and romantic. I’m glad I gave this book a try and after that twist at the end I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

[Shana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun Futuristic Field!

Such a fun read with so many ways to enjoy this romantic romp. The mer world with all of the mer words, activities and swearing!

[Sterre · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a fun romance!

I loved the futuristic elements in this book. Most were subtle but it really helped with immersing myself in this story. Although the main story was obviously about the romance, the little things surrounding that story really kept me entertained.

There were lots of lovable characters which was fun. However, I disliked some of the plot elements of the main relationship and how it progressed, which is why I rated the book 4 stars.

I definitely recommend this book to romance lovers that like a hint of something different (in this case bionic mermaids).

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Catherine Tripp · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kiss of the Bionic Mermaid was solidly fine. The characters of Jayna and Sid are sweet. My issues with the book were mostly from the forces keeping them apart and the third act breakup. The book spends a lot of time with the couple each telling themselves, that they are totally off limits. But then less than a week later they are ready to go out. And less than 24 hours later they were boyfriend girlfriend. Which I guess if the chemistry had been better , god knows I have suspended disbelief for shorter insta love tales. But the breakup is public and could have been avoided with a conversation. It just felt very formulaic. The writing wasn’t terrible. And if you love mermaids and mermaid related puns, this is the book for you. (I received an ARC) oh also it is sweet so only kisses are exchanged.

[Kristy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Futuristic bionic mermaids are definitely a new take on romance. This was a refreshing palate cleanser of a book. A delightful read.

[Lili_Recs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly really good. I loved their relationship and characters. Emmeline freaks me out though, especially after that ending. I def don't trust her anymore.

[Literary Titan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kiss of The Bionic Mermaid, by Leslie Dacapo, is a futuristic love story set in the enchanting mermaid-themed amusement park, Realms of Neptune. The story takes an intriguing turn when successful businessman Obsidian Hayes acquires ownership of the park, causing a stir among its employees. The novel delves into the unique Mer community, a close-knit group of men and women who use bionic mermaid tails to perform captivating mermaid acts at the park. At the heart of the story is Janna Hayes, a stunning performer known by her mersona, Mermaid Aramere. When Janna and Obsidian meet, their mutual attraction ignites a passionate romance.

Leslie Dacapo skillfully blends science fiction with romance in this light-hearted tale. His imaginative portrayal of the mermaid community and the futuristic world is both convincing and engaging. The creative concepts around the bionic mermaids add a refreshing twist to the narrative. Dacapo’s writing and plot provide a delightful take on the romance genre. The story offers a fresh perspective, which is a welcome change. I feel that enhancing the character development of the main protagonists would add an extra layer of depth to the already engaging story.

While the plot follows a somewhat predictable path typical of romance novels, it is a format that will undoubtedly appeal to many readers. I believe readers seeking a more complex storyline might find it a bit straightforward. Nonetheless, Dacapo excels in bringing his vision to life, making the story a pleasant and heartwarming read. The ending is particularly satisfying, leaving readers with a sense of warmth and enjoyment.

Kiss of The Bionic Mermaid is highly recommended for fans of the romance genre, especially those with an interest in light science fiction. The novel's blend of imaginative settings, romantic tension, and a touch of futuristic flair ensures an enjoyable reading experience. For anyone looking to escape into a world where love and innovation intertwine, this book is a perfect choice.

[Kath · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun, interesting storyline. The future of the Merpeople is good and alive in this heart warming and interesting love story.

Jayna, the beautiful mermaid with red hair and main attraction at Realms of Neptune, was so much like a real mermaid. Thanks to her mer tech outfits that were used to help with swimming, jumps from cannons and dives and being able to breath long stretches at a time in the water tanks has been looking forward to the first Merathlon and competing with these honed and well preserved skills. Her water venue, Realms, was sold by Carter to a Billionaire Sid Hayes. This is where the guy in this sweet love story comes in.

Sid was coxed and nudged to buying Realms a week or so before the Merathlon. Obsidian, Sid, is very much hands on and went to this Merathlon and lots of well described athletic fetes and shows took place. Sid came through as a hands on owner and ended up participating with Jayna in some of the attractions for audiences and to draw attraction to these events. From here came a lot of ups and down the Merathlon and shows for their love story.

The reason for the 4 is I would have liked a more definitive Epilogue for Sid and Jayna then being centered on Emmaline, Sid's personal assistant. Also, felt Jayna got ego centered in end of story, much unlike her main loving and caring character throughout.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kamelle Ruano · Rating 3 out of 5]

Like, this book was fine. It gives readers who enjoy romance the same formula for a love story, with hints of science fiction through the inventive technological advances made that our narrators describe.

I found it comical when “what the shark” and other mermaid puns were used in general conversation and narrative, but if it floats your boat, even better. I took issue with the forces keeping the protagonists from each other and how the conflict at the end boils over, where it’s very straightforward laying the groundwork for (hopefully in the works) a sequel following the endeavors of a personal assistant. The protagonists’ chemistry could have been developed more, but I found it truly exciting to have a moment where I couldn’t find another moment like the Jubilee in any other story I’ve read, where knowing that the skillset needed in dancing is in having a knowledgeable partner willing to take risks. Quick read, but I finished at least 60% of the book on an hour-long train ride.

[Kerri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book through a Goodreads Giveaway. To be honest, when I was notified that I won this book, I wasn't overly enthusiastic about it. But, I am so glad I did! I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it. The MCs are adorable and the supporting characters, for the most part, are developed enough to add substance to the story. The romance is sweet without being over the top. It reads like a woman wrote it, and I mean that in the best way possible. There were a couple of places where I thought some additional details or follow up could have been added, but overall, this is a solid book to read if you want something fun and light to make you feel good!

[T. Rash · Rating 5 out of 5]

I often give my star ratings based on comparisons with other similar types of books. I really don't have anything to compare this to -- I don't think I've ever read a romance based in the future, one with a bionic mermaid, or any characters working in an amusement park. This book was very creative, and I gave it five stars partly because of the novelty of the story.

The main characters in this book were very likeable, and their misunderstandings seemed believable. I loved the twist at the end, even though there were hints of it throughout the book. I also liked that there was a great setup for plots of future books without having a cliffhanger.

[Teddy G · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun fast read set in a futuristic Mermaid theme park!
Romance and Comedy it delivers on both.
Reality maybe not but I think that’s the point definitely not your typical setting or story so that was refreshing.
It’s so cheesy and fantastical but surprisingly it works.
I loved the main characters…a strong female lead is always a plus.
The pace is great in the beginning it does meander a little towards the end but ends well enough you can over look it.
If you’re needing a fun fast read this is it!

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really wonderful book! I loved the futuristic MerWorld. Jayna and Sid were fascinating characters. Their personalities were written with the real thoughts and fears that anyone would have entering a relationship especially with the background of their previous relationships. It was an entertaining story all in all and a great escape. Definitely recommend it. I look forward to reading more of this author’s books!

Advanced Reader’s Copy

[Dina Peters · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is not something I usually reach for, as I don’t typically read fantasy or romantasy. However, I decided to give it a try out of curiosity, and I was pleasantly surprised. The story balanced mystery, past baggage, romance, and a dash of mer-talk perfectly, making it a fun and charming read.

[Angela - Enjoy Life With Me Podcast · Rating 4 out of 5]

This RomCom takes place on Earth in the future. It's fun to see what technological advances were created and I hope some happen for real!

Great imagination while keeping the characters relatable; with their own insecurities they aren't perfect and their intentions aren't always executed well.

The humor was subtle but you'll laugh when you get to the lines like “Do you want me to go back and punch her out? I can do it, you know.”

Don't miss out on this fun book!

Content:
Style - Futuristic RomCom (workplace)
Intimacy - Moderate (makeouts, hands on hips, longing)
Language - Once (rest were “What the Shell” or “bull shark”)
Violence - None
Potential Triggers - bad past relationships, cheating, strained family relationships, lying & manipulation

[Brittany Lutz · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF at 50%. I was just bored with this.

[Barb · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story takes place in the future. Jayna is a famous mermaid who loves performing at the Realms of Neptune Park but likes helping disabled children love the water the most. If she can win the Manutai Merathlon she will have fame and money to help fund her interest. I found the community of mermaids interesting and thought there was a lot of creativity in clothes worn and transportation. The relationship between Sid and Jayna had a lot going for it also. Good story and characters.

[Chad Barrus · Rating 5 out of 5]

An unlikely love story between an employee and her new boss. Jayna is a crowd favorite at a theme park sporting a bionic mermaid tail who meets the new owner but doesn’t realize who he is. She feels an attraction towards him but then tries to distance herself when she realizes that he is now her boss and not just a fellow employee. Accepting a flight to a competition with him and spending time with him she begins to think he may be different from those she’s known before. Then a chance encounter changes everything and words are exchanged in anger before any explanations can be made and things look pretty bleak. She tries to correct the narrative the media is telling by painting him in a much better light and decides to move on with her life when he shows up unexpectedly and makes a better offer that she finds she can’t refuse!

This is a sweet romantic love story between two people who have been hurt before but it proves once again just how important it is to have open communication between each other! Insecurities and
past relationships can have devastating results if things are kept from each other and honesty isn’t respected and given.

I enjoyed this book and give it an enthusiastic recommendation as one I think you’ll enjoy reading!
As always remember to just be open and honest in your relationships whether they be in matters of the heart or something else and you won’t go wrong!