Mermaid by Carolyn Turgeon Review

If you've ever read the original story of The Little Mermaid by Hans Christian Andersen, you might remember the human princess that stole the human prince's heart, as well as stole him from the little mermaid. It's a unique twist to be able to get inside her head for once and see the story from her eyes, in addition to the little mermaid's. The mermaid in this story, named Lenia, lives in a beautiful underwater kingdom ruled by her mother, the sea queen, and though contact with the human world is forbidden, Lenia dreams to explore this world and gain an immortal soul.
If you're familiar with the original story, this novel follows it fairly closely. However, this is not a children's book at all, and it does contain some adult content, especially concerning the little mermaid adapting to the differences between a human body and her mermaid body. It gets very detailed, but then again, it puts you in the fins shoes of a mermaid who is trying to get used to her new form.
There were also quite a few big changes to the story that were of the author's own imagination. For example, everyone gets a happy ending in this story, in their own way, a deviation from the original fairytale, which is darker and more heartbreaking. However, Carolyn Turgeon manages to capture the darkly beautiful essence of the original story while managing to spin her own version of the tale at the same time. Fans of the original The Little Mermaid looking for a more adult version of the tale will delight in Mermaid: A Twist on the Classic Tale.

Tangled Tides by Karen Amanda Hooper Review

Tangled Tides was one of my most anticipated books this year, and I am so glad it did not disappoint! From the opening chapter, the book jumps right into the action. Yara becomes a mermaid early on, and a whole new magical world beneath the sea is unveiled.
The mythology of this book was rich, refreshing, and a well-needed break from vampires, werewolves, and fallen angels. None of those here, but there are mermaids, selkies, sirens, and gorgons (even a water sprite or two), and learning the back stories and rules for each species, as well as how the different species interact with each other, was one the things most interesting to me about the book. And another thing - it’s difficult to choose which creature I liked the most. I loved them all!
The characters were also unique and fully fleshed out. You’ll cheer for Yara, our heroine, the girls will swoon over Treygan, and Pango will make you laugh. I loved each one of these uniquely amazing characters.
And the surprises! Filled with secrets, these characters are part of a feud that has lasted for eighteen years, and the complex web of lies and secrets that each character is a part of unravels as the novel progresses. You’ll probably gasp a time or two…I know I did.
So definitely read Tangled Tides, especially if you’re a fan of warring supernatural creatures, but you’re tired of the vampires and the werewolves. But also, give it a try if you’re looking for a great story filled with romance, adventure, and shocking twists.

Once Upon A Time's Ariel (Almost) Cast?

Remember yesterday when I blogged about ABC's fairytale-themed show Once Upon a Time including Ariel as one of the characters? Well, not only are they pursuing a storyline for The Litle Mermaid, but it looks like they've got someone in mind to play the Disney heroine as well.
The casting directors appear to be chasing down Joanna Garcia to play Ariel. I've never heard of the actress before, but from her overall appearance, it looks like she would be able to capture Ariel's carefree and bubble personality quite well. Plus, she's a redhead, and we all know how much Ariel's hair is her signature trademark.
Do you think Joanna Gsrcia would be able to successfully play Ariel on Once Upon a Time?

Guess Who's Swimming to ABC's Once Upon A Time?

Hey, guys! Sorry I've been gone so long, but this semester has been busy! I'm back now, with exciting news! Our favorite Disney heroine, Ariel from The Little Mermaid, might be showing up on ABC's Once Upon A Time! For those not familiar with the show, it puts well-known fairytale characters in our world, characters like Snow White, Cinderella, and various others. I've been hoping our favorite mermaid would pop up, and it looks like that's about to happen!
My only thought is whether or not the character is indeed Ariel, or another version of the little mermaid story. Other characters on the show, such as Sleeping Beauty's Malificent and the dwarves from Snow White, appear to be based on the Disney versions rather than the actual fairytales. And it wouldn't be too far of a stretch to include Ariel - after all, ABC is owned by Disney, so they could include her.
Will you guys watch the Little Mermaid in action on Once Upon a Time, as well as (hopefully) Ursula, Eric, King Triton, and all our other favorite characters from the film?

Exciting Disney News!

REALLY big news for those who loved the mermaids in Pireates of the Carribean.
Disney has just confirmed that they will be adding mermaids to the Pirates ride at Disney World!




I'm a bit hesitant to publish this, but OH. MY. GOD. I'm sorry, I'm a little kid every time I've been to Disney (like twice, but roll with me here). This is going to be amazing. Looking forward to this more than you know!

What are your opinions on this new addition? Let me know in the comments.

-Randi