About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is navigating the friction between duty and desire, or when they are searching for stories that normalize queer identity within a high-stakes adventure. The story follows Rayleigh, a cursed pirate, and Maren, a determined mermaid, as they form a reluctant alliance to confront a Sea Witch. While the plot is driven by swashbuckling action, the heart of the book explores how we break free from the expectations of others to define ourselves. It is an ideal pick for older teens (14+) who enjoy romantic fantasy with complex female leads. Parents will appreciate the focus on agency, the nuances of building trust after betrayal, and the healthy, consensual development of a romantic relationship amidst the chaos of a magical quest.
