There’s always been something a little … suspicious about mermaids and sirens. Stories of their hypnotic songs and mesmerizing beauty have enchanted sailors for centuries, but what if there was more to the legend? What if their allure wasn’t just about magic but something else entirely? After all, anything that rare is bound to be coveted. Whether as myth, muse or mystery, mermaids and sirens continue to inspire stories that lure readers into the depths. From dark transformations to dangerous romances, these books take the siren song to new and unexpected places.
Chlorine by Jade Song
Jade Song’s Chlorine offers a haunting exploration of transformation and identity. The protagonist, Ren Yu, is a competitive swimmer who feels an inexplicable pull toward the ocean. As she grapples with the pressures of her sport and her own desires, Ren’s journey becomes a visceral metamorphosis, blurring the lines between human and mermaid. Song’s lyrical prose immerses readers in a world where water symbolizes both freedom and confinement, challenging perceptions of self and the allure of the unknown.
Mermaids Never Drown by Zoraida Córdova and Natalie C. Parker
This anthology brings together a diverse array of voices, each presenting a unique take on mermaids and sirens. Edited by Zoraida Córdova and Natalie C. Parker, Mermaids Never Drown features stories that range from enchanting to eerie, exploring the multifaceted nature of these sea beings. Contributors like Darcie Little Badger infuse indigenous perspectives, adding depth and cultural richness to the collection. It’s a treasure trove for readers seeking varied and contemporary mermaid tales.
Hexed by Emily McIntyre
In Hexed, Emily McIntire crafts a dark romance intertwined with supernatural elements. The story follows a witch entangled with a siren, their fates bound by magic and desire. As they navigate a world filled with danger and passion, McIntire delves into themes of power, love and the sacrifices one makes for both. The novel’s rich character development and intricate plot make it a standout in contemporary fantasy romance.
The Sirens by Emilia Hart
Emilia Hart’s The Sirens weaves historical fiction with mythology and female resilience. In 1800, two Irish sisters endure a brutal convict ship voyage, while in 2019, a journalist unearths their long-buried secrets. Like Weyward, it blends past and present with a fast-paced, atmospheric narrative. Fans of Hart’s debut will enjoy this tale of survival, sisterhood and fate.
Dragged Down Deep by Michael Okon
Michael Okon‘s Dragged Down Deep plunges readers into a thrilling adventure beneath the waves. The narrative centers on a group of explorers who encounter mermaids far removed from the benign creatures of folklore. These mermaids are formidable and enigmatic, challenging the protagonists’ perceptions and survival skills. Okon’s fast-paced storytelling and imaginative world-building keep readers on the edge of their seats, redefining mermaid lore for a modern audience.
In the Veins of Drowning by Kalie Cassidy
Kalie Cassidy‘s debut novel, In the Veins of the Drowning, delves into themes of belonging and identity through the lens of siren mythology. The protagonist, Imogen, is a siren escaping a tyrannical kingdom, who must aid neighboring realms against a monstrous threat. Cassidy draws from her mixed Puerto Rican and Irish heritage, infusing the narrative with rich cultural elements. The novel’s dynamic romantic elements challenge characters to confront their prejudices, fostering mutual understanding.
The Island by Kerri King
In The Island by Kerri King, reality and myth entwine in a mesmerizing gothic fantasy that pulls you deep beneath the surface. Co-written with Underjungle author James Sturz, the story follows Mack, a man desperately searching for his lost wife on an enigmatic island where art, mystery, and dark secrets collide. As the island’s haunting beauty and its artistic inhabitants draw him in, Mack is forced to confront the shifting boundaries of truth and legend. Atmospheric and immersive, The Island explores obsession, transformation, and the seductive power of the unknown, weaving a tale that lingers like a half-remembered dream. Perfect for fans of speculative fiction and eerie, otherworldly mysteries, this novel will leave you believing in magic — both beautiful and terrifying.
