Review: Skin of the Sea by Natasha Bowen
I really enjoyed the writing in this book. I loved the characters, I loved the worldbuilding, I loved the prose. The only thing I didn't love was the actual plot. It wasn't that compelling to me. I didn't mind being along for the ride though because the rest of the story was so beautiful. I cried more than one in Simi's memories. I especially loved the way it was sometimes hard to tell exactly when we were living the present or a memory; she slipped into them so easily without much distinction. It was disorienting, yes, but that made it feel even more authentic. I felt like I was in Simi's head, slipping into the flashbacks alongside her.
I definitely would recommend this book, especially if you like brief action scenes when they are there. I used to love action but l've found my tastes changing as I get older and find it kind of exhausting now, but that wasn't a concern with this book.
I also appreciate the subtle disability representation, with Simi's struggles with adapting to the way her body works on land. She has a lot of joint pain that I really resonate with.
3.5/5⭐️
#blackhistorymonth #blackbooks #fantasybooks #skinofthesea #mermaidcore #booklemon8 #readersoflemon8
Set against the backdrop of African mythology, 'Skin of the Sea' features Simi, a mermaid turned girl, who experiences a deep connection to her past. The book highlights the struggle she faces in adapting to land, eloquently represented through her physical challenges, including joint pain. This subtle representation adds depth to the narrative, making it relatable for many readers. Also, the narrative shifts between memory and present seamlessly, enhancing the emotional weight of the story. Readers who enjoy fantasy with strong character development and a reflective tone will find this book particularly engaging. Discussions around its themes are resonating with readers in the #skinofthesea community, showcasing its relevance and the importance of disability representation in literature.