“Captures the mystery, tragic loss, and beauty of Hans Christian Andersen's original mermaid tale while thoughtfully and passionately updating it.” —Publishers Weekly
A modern-day expansion of Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Little Mermaid,” Ann Claycomb’s unforgettable debut novel weaves a spellbinding tale of magic and the power of love.

Since childhood, Kathleen has been plagued by bizarre maladies, from stabbing pains in her feet to the terrifying sensation of her tongue being cut out. Teams of doctors have been unable to diagnose her, and only the touch of seawater temporarily eases her pain.

Studying opera at a top conservatory, Kathleen shows tremendous promise as a soprano, but her phantom pains and obsession with the sea grow more debilitating every day. Her girlfriend, Harry, a talented singer in her own right, worries Kathleen will suffer the same fate as her mother and grandmother. When Kathleen has yet another dangerous breakdown, Harry convinces her to return to her Irish birthplace to try to make sense of a legacy of tragedy.

But in Ireland, they soon discover that Kathleen’s family history is far older and darker than either could have imagined. Kathleen’s fate seems sealed, and the only way out is to make the worst choice of all: ending her lover’s life or her own.

“Beautifully written and captivating … Claycomb's use of the fairy tale is deft and enchanting … A satisfying emotional journey, one that's heart-wrenching and also a little magical." —New York Daily News

“Anyone who reads it will never look at The Little Mermaid the same way again.” —Kim van Alkemade, New York Times–bestselling author of Orphan #eight

Fairy Tales, Folk Tales, Legends & Mythology