Muriel Quinn and Zane Erickson's story was such a wonderful retelling of 'The Little Mermaid'. I so thoroughly enjoyed it that I finished it in one sitting. The book design by "Carpe Librum Book Design" is lovely, and I adore the play on words. Set in Galveston, TX 1886, we are treated to a delightful tale of a woman whose head is often in the sea rather than firmly planted on the ground and responsibility. She lives with her wonderfully Irish father, Patrick, and is the last daughter left at home. Additionally, Zane is from a wealthy family whose heart desires a love match directed by God and a career in Architecture. His controlling parents are set to push him towards a marriage that will meet their ideals and enlist the help of a matchmaker. I love that St. Ursula's by the Sea run by Octavia Underhill 🦑 was a real place (based on the Ursuline Academy for young ladies or St. Ursula's in 1847).
This book doesn't drag you into the Disney version of the story, but rather whispers to your heart of the fanciful nature of it, yet gives a delightfully grown-up take with nods to the old and a tale you will want to revisit.
I give this book five starfish!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌊
I received an eVersion from the author. All thoughts and opinions are mine alone without expectation or compensation.
Read 05/17/2026
Release date is June 16, 2026
Until next time, Hugs and a Cup of Tea (by the Sea!)
