The Ferryman and the Sea Witch by D. Wallace Peach #bookreview #mermaids #fantasy #paranormal #TuesdayBookBlog

On By Teri PolenIn Book Reviews

The merrow rule the sea. Slender creatures, fair of face, with silver scales and the graceful tails of angelfish. Caught in a Brid Clarion net, the daughter of the sea witch perishes in the sunlit air. Her fingers dangle above the swells.

The queen of the sea bares her sharp teeth and, in a fury of wind and waves, cleanses the brine of ships and men. But she spares a boy for his single act of kindness. Callum becomes the Ferryman, and until Brid Clarion pays its debt with royal blood, only his sails may cross the Deep.

Two warring nations, separated by the merrow’s trench, trade infant hostages in a commitment to peace. Now, the time has come for the heirs to return home. The Ferryman alone can undertake the exchange.

Yet, animosities are far from assuaged. While Brid Clarion’s islands bask in prosperity, Haf Killick, a floating city of derelict ships, rots and rusts and sinks into the reefs. Its ruler has other designs.

And the sea witch crafts dark bargains with all sides.

Callum is caught in the breach, with a long-held bargain of his own which, once discovered, will shatter this life.

With the author posting an occasional teaser from this book on her blog, I’ve been anticipating it for quite a while. It was absolutely worth the wait.

Having read several other books by this author, I knew it would be a treat to immerse myself in the world of the merrows and kingdoms of Brid Clarion and Haf Killick. Her lavish descriptions always make me feel like I’m experiencing everything right alongside the characters – the salt spray across my face while sailing the high seas, the rolling of the ship as it crosses the Deep, and the graceful beauty of the merrow. In spite of Callum’s attempt to save the life of the Sea Witch’s daughter, she dies. After killing the rest of the crew responsible for her death, the Sea Witch spares his life for his kindness. It’s a bargain he can’t refuse but considering what he’s forced to do, Callum may wish he perished with the crew. My heart went out to him immediately after he’s put in an incredibly difficult position. He has no choice other than to take a human life every time he crosses the Deep and spend his life caught between two warring nations unless he sacrifices royal blood.

The characters are wonderfully flawed and well-drawn. Some I had a love/hate relationship with, not knowing where their loyalties fell until nearly the end. They kept me guessing – which I totally enjoy.

Warring nations, deceit, lies – it’s impossible to trust either nation, but it soon becomes evident Callum has something precious worth saving and fighting for. Don’t assume you’ll accurately predict the path of this plot. Alexa read this to me from my Kindle, and I had to stop and immediately rewind (more than once!) to make sure I’d heard correctly when some astonishing twists spun the story in a different direction.

Exciting battles, long held secrets, treachery, and deadly bargains – this novel engaged me from the first page. The ending was everything I’d hoped for these characters. I can’t go without mentioning the incredibly beautiful cover. Easily five stars!

43 thoughts on “The Ferryman and the Sea Witch by D. Wallace Peach #bookreview #mermaids #fantasy #paranormal #TuesdayBookBlog”

  4. I thought I’d have read Diana’s book by now. I have it and will read it by the end of the year. I’ve left lots of gaps in my schedule around the holidays to give me time to read some books I purchased and this is at the top. I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed it. It makes my fingers itch to pick it up now 🙂

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    1. I know what you mean about leaving some gaps in the schedule, Tessa. I’ve got my eye on a few days in September when I plan to get caught up on some friends’ novels. Diana’s book is well worth the wait.

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    2. Your comment made me smile, Tessa. I look forward to hearing what you think of the book. Teri’s review certainly had me dancing. I’m so glad that readers are enjoying the twists. It can get dark at times. Thanks so much for stopping by. 🙂

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    2. Thanks so much for reading, John. I’m tickled to hear that and hope the book continues to entertain. Teri’s review was a delight and I couldn’t be happier to hear that you’re enjoying the story. Have a wonderful Sunday and be well.

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        2. Thanks for the kind comment, Miriam. These characters have a lot of flaws, and I had to work hard to make even Callum likeable. He’s in such a touch spot for most of the book. I’m so mean to my characters. Have a lovely Sunday, my friend. ❤

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          1. You’re very good in creating dynamic characters, Diana. It would be boring if they’re straight forward. It’s good in real life. I like predictable people so my heart wouldn’t skip a jump. But we seem to like conflicts in fictional characters. 💖

            It was so dark here last night at the beach house with no street lights. The beach is right at the back porch. I was afraid the waves would keep me awake but the rhythmic sound gave me a best night of sleep in a long time.💖

            Have a wonderful Sunday, my friend. 😊

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  10. Woo hoo, Teri. Sorry I’m so late to this post. What a fabulous review. Thank you! I’m so glad you enjoyed the story, and I don’t mind making you rewind at the twists and turns. I loved sticking a few shockers in there and being totally cruel to my characters. We finished my day with a huge smile that’s going to carry me through the week. Thanks so much for reading and sharing your thoughts. ❤

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