Mermaid of Black Conch set in the Caribbean

Submitted: 9th December 2021

Bookreview of Mermaid of Black Conch by Monique Roffey

There were so many reasons I wanted to read this novel. The cove for one is stunning, and the promise of a story with mermaid mythology set in an exotic location was just too attractive for words.

This book is more than that however. It takes us below the surface of that sparkling sea to the dark and dangerous depths below.

BookTrail locations in The Mermaid of Black Conch

Boarding Pass Information :

Destination : A fictional Caribbean Island

Author guide: Monique Roffey

Genre: Literary fiction

Food and drink to accompany: Coconut cake and rum

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BookTrail locations in The Mermaid of Black Conch

A novel to transport you via mermaid mythology to a tropical island

A gorgeous mythical tale. Aycayia is the mermaid of the title and she was a joy to meet. Fisherman find her and don’t know what to make of her. She is a mystery to them, a danger of sorts, a strange creature they don’t know what to do with. When the villagers see her, they too treat her with disdain and fear. Who is she and what is she?

This book is just wonderful and sumptuous. A story of light and darkness, love and loss, what you see above the surface and what lies hidden. There are threads about attitudes to women and slavery too. Lots of material for book clubs to discuss.

BookTrail locations in The Mermaid of Black Conch

What really shone for me here was the way the author evoked setting and the entire ecology of the island where we were. She transports you there heart and soul and I was enthralled, enchanted and moved in so many ways. Oh the love story between Aycayia and someone else is just perfection in its portrayal and emotional impact.

Monique, you are a gem. A gem of a writer for building this world, this scenery, bringing Aycayia into our lives and for evoking the magic of the Caribbean too. Apt that having finished the book, I want to dive straight back into it.