What do you think?
Rate this book
The Sirens of Falkeld
2016 RONE Award Winner and Reader's Favorite Finalist
Kade Finley, of the Scottish Isles, was raised on legends of the sea. His Gaffer, Toran Finley said, that beneath Muireall’s wind-swept cliffs, deep under the waves, there lived a legend as old as the Highlands themselves. Of Manannán Mac Lir, the sea god, and his beautiful sea maidens, the maighdean mhara, who swam the tides, luring sailors to their deaths.
But they’re not just legend.
Kade saw one on his ninth birthday. On that day, a fierce storm swallowed half the island, and his da, Aidan Finley, was never seen again.
It’s been nine years since Da disappeared, and Gaffer is dying.
Desperate to save him, Kade decides to capture a maighdean mhara, of whom the stories say will grant one wish if caught. But Admiral Gilbert Owen, commander of the island’s WWII naval base, complicates things. In his quest for power, the Admiral has enraged the maidens, making it dangerous to be human in maighdean mhara infested waters.
Kade Finley, of the Scottish Isles, was raised on legends of the sea. His Gaffer, Toran Finley said, that beneath Muireall’s wind-swept cliffs, deep under the waves, there lived a legend as old as the Highlands themselves. Of Manannán Mac Lir, the sea god, and his beautiful sea maidens, the maighdean mhara, who swam the tides, luring sailors to their deaths.
But they’re not just legend.
Kade saw one on his ninth birthday. On that day, a fierce storm swallowed half the island, and his da, Aidan Finley, was never seen again.
It’s been nine years since Da disappeared, and Gaffer is dying.
Desperate to save him, Kade decides to capture a maighdean mhara, of whom the stories say will grant one wish if caught. But Admiral Gilbert Owen, commander of the island’s WWII naval base, complicates things. In his quest for power, the Admiral has enraged the maidens, making it dangerous to be human in maighdean mhara infested waters.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 4, 2015
3 people are currently reading
152 people want to read
About the author
Julie Tuovi
4 books20 followersJulie Tuovi is a read-a-holic, Diet Coke addict, and lover of all things sparkly. Especially nail polish. In her spare time Julie likes to hunt zombies, debate the merits of pirate v. ninja, and rescue small kittens from trees. Oh . . . and plot ways to take over the universe. A history enthusiast, concert pianist, and attorney (but only when there’s nothing better to do), she currently lives in a small town at the base of the majestic, Wasatch Front, where her only complaint is that the library isn’t nearly big enough. Her debut novel, The Sirens of Falkeld, was a 2016 RONE Award Winner and Reader's Favorite Finalist. Stay tuned for more at: www.julietuovi.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
September 30, 2015
Yes, I, a grown man, am reading a book about MERMAIDS.
And loving it, I may add.
Julie Tuovi's brilliant debut, The Sirens of Falkeld, brings the reader in the dismal, war-torn setting of WWII Scotland, where a young man named Cade is desperate to save his ailing grandfather. His last hope is to somehow catch a maighdean maara, one of a group of legendary mermaid-like creatures that allegedly grant a wish to whomever catches her.
But nothing's that simple.
Complicating matters is The Admiral, a cold, callous, evil military leader who has come to the island of Muireall in search of an ancient Spanish treasure, and who believes that it is to be found on the nearby mysterious island of Falkeled ... where the maara are reputed to live.
Told in alternating first-person POV, this story brilliantly weaves together the perspectives of not only Cade but Cora, a maara who has a connection to Cade that neither of them realizes. Can two beings from such vastly different worlds band together to defeat a powerful and evil enemy?
This story will grip you tight from the first page and never let go. And the ending is so heart-rending and beautiful, it had me crying actual tears, and I'll tell you, there's not many books that can do that.
Wonderful, wonderful story. Stellar work, Ms. Tuovi.
And loving it, I may add.
Julie Tuovi's brilliant debut, The Sirens of Falkeld, brings the reader in the dismal, war-torn setting of WWII Scotland, where a young man named Cade is desperate to save his ailing grandfather. His last hope is to somehow catch a maighdean maara, one of a group of legendary mermaid-like creatures that allegedly grant a wish to whomever catches her.
But nothing's that simple.
Complicating matters is The Admiral, a cold, callous, evil military leader who has come to the island of Muireall in search of an ancient Spanish treasure, and who believes that it is to be found on the nearby mysterious island of Falkeled ... where the maara are reputed to live.
Told in alternating first-person POV, this story brilliantly weaves together the perspectives of not only Cade but Cora, a maara who has a connection to Cade that neither of them realizes. Can two beings from such vastly different worlds band together to defeat a powerful and evil enemy?
This story will grip you tight from the first page and never let go. And the ending is so heart-rending and beautiful, it had me crying actual tears, and I'll tell you, there's not many books that can do that.
Wonderful, wonderful story. Stellar work, Ms. Tuovi.
May 7, 2015
Julie Tuovi has a unique talent of not only hooking the reader from the beginning but keeping the pages turning. I was especially impressed by the unique twist at the end. Well written; excellent character development. Will look forward to more books by Ms. Tuovi.
June 14, 2015
One word to describe 'The Sirens Of Falkeld' by Julie Tuovi is magical.
Get ready for a fairytale, kiddos.
I was hooked(Fish pun definitely intended)up until the very end. I read it in one day! It was really, really hard to put this book down, even when I had stuff that needed to be done. My priorities are obviously straight since I carried on reading instead of doing chores.
The story was so engaging and there was never a dull moment. And it's full of badass mermaidyness. So, it's pretty awesome.
Set in Scotland during World War II, Readers follow Kade Finley, a young man desperate to save his dying, Gatter (Grandfather), and willing to do anything to do that. The legends has it that if you capture a maighdean mhara, you get a wish. However, When Kade sets out to catch one, he gets way more then he bargains for...
Honestly, I really felt Kade's struggle and desperation to save his Gatter through the whole book and I sympathized with him. Kade, as a character, is loyal, strong and . I don't really read a whole bunch of YA's where the male lead really impresses me.But Kade did. I kinda wanted to hug the living hell out of him. He is thrown into a world completely out of his experience, almost dies a couple of times and goes through some real emotional conflict.
Having grown up on myths and legends and having actually seen a mermaid, Kade thinks he knows all he needs to about the maighdean mhara. Expecting to capture a soulless killer, Cora,the siren he captures, is definitely not what he thought she would be. Cora is different and she reminds him of a very special someone that he used to know...She breaks down all the stereotypes: Saving him instead of killing him. Bewildering not only him but her.
Cora doesn't understand the feelings she has for Kabe. She saves him rather than killing him, going against her every maighdean mhara instinct while also being irresistibly drawn to him.
But besides all that-Cora is incredibly badass. This is what a mermaid is supposed to be. She fights for her sisters and her life-Sharing the trait with Kabe of doing what ever it takes to save the people you love. The love she feels for her sisters is palpable and she fights with a vicious integrity. She's a fecking warrior.
There is real conflict and tension between all the characters of the book, that you could really feel and be drawn into (much like a siren's song). By the end of the book, I truly felt that I knew these characters and what made them who they are(Except you,Admiral.You're just a straight up dick with a power complex).
Some pretty awesome action scenes take place-War means WAR, in this book. Mermaid/maighdean mhara against soldiers. This is what dreams are made of!
The action scenes, like the whole book, were extremely well written and I could visualize them perfectly. (That swarming of the mermaids, in that gif up there-TOTALLY HAPPENS. CAN WE TALK ABOUT HOW AWESOME THAT IS!?)
I loved the whole atmosphere of the book which is well detailed and
Julie Tuovi beautifully crafts the story of 'The Sirens of Falkeld' drawing from history and myth like a pro. Julie brings Scottish lore and their mythical creatures to life, making you wander...Is there something underneath the oceans surface?
Special thanks to Julie Tuovi for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Playlist:
U2-Every Breaking Wave
Lana Del Rey-In The Land Of Gods and Monsters
Lana Del Rey-Radio
Patrick Wolf - Damaris
In This Moment - Her Kiss
Celtic Music - Siren's Call
Billy Boyd-The Edge of Night---This song is totally the song is for sure the song that was playing when everyone is gearing up for shit to go down.
Assassins Creed Revelations - Main Theme song (01) (Full version)--This is the song where shit IS going down.
June 17, 2016
When an author creates something out of pure fiction, it has to be written with authority. The characters have to be believable. Most of all, any preconceptions one might have had about the story have to be discarded right from the outset.
The Sirens of Falkeld is the debut novel of Julie Tuovi, but you wouldn't know it from the writing. Here is a story that has rather incredible world building. The author really has a talent for describing literally everything in the book. The titular Sirens, of course, are nothing like the Disney mermaids. It's a risk to describe them as Miss Tuovi has done in her story, but the payoff is wonderful because the main Siren, Cora, is no airhead waif. She's actually something to be respected, and yes - something to be feared.
The style of the book is interesting given its shifting perspective, chapter to chapter. Our hero, Kade, is threatened with death more times than seems fair by the shifty, arrogant and pompous Admiral near the start of the story. Kade's perspective is quite formulaic so we can relate to him easily. Initially, he is not an overly complex character. But as the story advanced and he interacts with Cora, we get a glimpse of the man in this youngish-boy.
Cora seems too advanced, too wily, too clever and yes - too dangerous for Kade to interact with her.
But inbetween these wonderful character developments, we really are swept along by the author's engrossing story. Not once did I think 'this is a fluffy story about mermaids.'
However, I did find the book a challenging read at times. The first third of the book takes a little while to find its 'sea legs', but once it does, it rewards readers with action, danger, romance and thrills.
This could be said of many a debut author's story, so it is no slight on the author, who has created an incredibly detailed and believable world. I like the authentic use of the Scottish language, it's well done and never grates.
One thing I really loved and rounded off the book just perfectly was the author's notes. I know, some of you will skip that part but I urge you to read it. The author is honest in her influences for her story, which I could see early on in the book. Thankfully The Sirens of Falkeld grows into its own very deep rewarding story.
It's the very best kind of story, a wonderful mix of myth and legend that will pull you down to the depths of the sea and demand that you read it to the very end.
The Sirens of Falkeld is the debut novel of Julie Tuovi, but you wouldn't know it from the writing. Here is a story that has rather incredible world building. The author really has a talent for describing literally everything in the book. The titular Sirens, of course, are nothing like the Disney mermaids. It's a risk to describe them as Miss Tuovi has done in her story, but the payoff is wonderful because the main Siren, Cora, is no airhead waif. She's actually something to be respected, and yes - something to be feared.
The style of the book is interesting given its shifting perspective, chapter to chapter. Our hero, Kade, is threatened with death more times than seems fair by the shifty, arrogant and pompous Admiral near the start of the story. Kade's perspective is quite formulaic so we can relate to him easily. Initially, he is not an overly complex character. But as the story advanced and he interacts with Cora, we get a glimpse of the man in this youngish-boy.
Cora seems too advanced, too wily, too clever and yes - too dangerous for Kade to interact with her.
But inbetween these wonderful character developments, we really are swept along by the author's engrossing story. Not once did I think 'this is a fluffy story about mermaids.'
However, I did find the book a challenging read at times. The first third of the book takes a little while to find its 'sea legs', but once it does, it rewards readers with action, danger, romance and thrills.
This could be said of many a debut author's story, so it is no slight on the author, who has created an incredibly detailed and believable world. I like the authentic use of the Scottish language, it's well done and never grates.
One thing I really loved and rounded off the book just perfectly was the author's notes. I know, some of you will skip that part but I urge you to read it. The author is honest in her influences for her story, which I could see early on in the book. Thankfully The Sirens of Falkeld grows into its own very deep rewarding story.
It's the very best kind of story, a wonderful mix of myth and legend that will pull you down to the depths of the sea and demand that you read it to the very end.
October 21, 2015
Never would have thought I'd love a book with mermaids so much. These aren't the mermaids of your children's stories or Disney movies. These things are bad ass, pardon my French. They are evil but still sympathetic. They kill but it's more out of necessity than want. They have this urge inside of them that sends them reaching out for good souls. I would not want to get on their bad side. I think it's safe to say, we're lucky out oceans are filled with sharks and not these women.
Kade, a Scottish young man, doesn't know who he is, not really. His father died when he was a boy. His mother was never around. Since he was nine, all he had was his gaffer, his best friend, and Bonnie. By the time our story starts, Bonnie has been dead for two years and Kade has never fully recovered. When he is faced with losing his gaffer as well, he decides to go on a suicide mission to attempt the impossible. What he finds out about himself along the way is enough to shock anyone.
This book was awesome! With a cute and adventurous boy, a host of family secrets, a love story to top all love stories, and bad ass sea monsters - where can you go wrong?
The writing is superb. The pace, fast. The setting is three quarters parts bleak Scotland crags and one quarter charming Scottish island. This is one that I couldn't put down.
Kade, a Scottish young man, doesn't know who he is, not really. His father died when he was a boy. His mother was never around. Since he was nine, all he had was his gaffer, his best friend, and Bonnie. By the time our story starts, Bonnie has been dead for two years and Kade has never fully recovered. When he is faced with losing his gaffer as well, he decides to go on a suicide mission to attempt the impossible. What he finds out about himself along the way is enough to shock anyone.
This book was awesome! With a cute and adventurous boy, a host of family secrets, a love story to top all love stories, and bad ass sea monsters - where can you go wrong?
The writing is superb. The pace, fast. The setting is three quarters parts bleak Scotland crags and one quarter charming Scottish island. This is one that I couldn't put down.
May 16, 2015
A fabulous debut by Julie Tuovi! The character Kade surprised me as someone who's determined to save those whom he cares most about. In this case, Gaffer, his grandfather who is dying. Its the kind of affection that I believe we all can relate to sometime in our lives. You feel his struggle and determination to save his grandfather and it's a noble sacrifice in the name of family. Since this story is set within the perimeters of Scotland during WWII, it's a paramount character trait for someone such as Kade to have. He knows what he wants and will do anything to get it.
Set perfectly in Scotland, this story has a dark, yet beautiful fairytale quality. Ms. Tuovi has tapped into a part of the world where people go specifically to find a little magic of their own. It is like you expect to go Falkeld and find Sirens and perhaps a Loch Ness monster or two in the waters. It begs you to risk everything for a chance that may change your life forever. All you have to do is dare yourself to go.
I encourage everyone who enjoys history and a bit of magic to read this book! I look forward to reading more from this author!
Set perfectly in Scotland, this story has a dark, yet beautiful fairytale quality. Ms. Tuovi has tapped into a part of the world where people go specifically to find a little magic of their own. It is like you expect to go Falkeld and find Sirens and perhaps a Loch Ness monster or two in the waters. It begs you to risk everything for a chance that may change your life forever. All you have to do is dare yourself to go.
I encourage everyone who enjoys history and a bit of magic to read this book! I look forward to reading more from this author!
May 8, 2015
This book! Where to even start...The story was so engaging, and the writing was just as evocative and stunning as the world-building and characters. Sirens of Falkeld is set in Scotland against a backdrop of WWII, drawing richly from both history and myth, and combining them in an original and brilliant way. The sense of mystery and intrigue is gripping from page one, and holds you tight throughout the rest of the narrative. The characters are beautifully written, with palpable tension and real conflict that masterfully mirrors the perfectly paced plot and darker story environment. Probably my favorite aspect was the chapters from the maighdean mhara POV. Those chapters were GORGEOUS. I loved seeing the fight, the terrible and raw emotions of the sirens - testament to Julie's writing, because she made me come to empathize and understand a VERY deadly and seductive predator.
Bravo, Mrs. Tuovi...I love this, and I give it a very enthusiastic five stars!
Also, fans of Scorpio Races will love this!
Bravo, Mrs. Tuovi...I love this, and I give it a very enthusiastic five stars!
Also, fans of Scorpio Races will love this!
May 10, 2017
Just...WOW!
Fantastic, beautiful writing. Unique and refreshing story line. Suspenseful and imaginative. Great read! Highly recommend! 5 Stars! All. The. Way!
Fantastic, beautiful writing. Unique and refreshing story line. Suspenseful and imaginative. Great read! Highly recommend! 5 Stars! All. The. Way!
May 20, 2015
Julie Tuovi has created a magical world in her new book, The Sirens of Falkeld. Kade, a young man living on an island in Scotland, is pulled into a world he never expected to be a part of. Desperate to save a loved one, he goes to incredible lengths to find the ones who can save his grandfather, the maighdean mhara. The legends say, if you capture a maighdean mhara, you get a wish. Luckily, his grandfather told him just how to do it. But, when Kade sets out to catch one, he gets more than he bargained for.
She has dark eyes to match the sea. She’s not like the soulless creatures he’s heard stories about. Cora is different. She reminds him of someone he used to know. The way she tilts her head. The way her eyes see right through him. But it can’t be…
Then there’s the Admiral. The men call him the Terror of Tomberlyn. He’s heard of treasure off the coast of Falkeld Island. He doesn’t know the island very well. But his new captive, Kade, does. He’s lived of its coast all his life. The Admiral can’t let an opportunity like this slip him by. Kade will have no choice but to guide his captor where he wants to go.
From being captured by the navy, to almost drowning, to being saved by the legendary killers of men, Kade must uncover the secrets of these beings of legend before it’s too late for his grandfather.
If you like Scottish lore and fairy tale creatures come to life, you’ll love this new read from a very talented writer. A painter of words, Julie Tuovi will put you inside the heads of two characters who were destined to meet and help one another. With her stunning descriptions of the ocean and what it would be like to live underneath its surface, she takes her readers to a new world full of soul stealing and treasure hunting. Thrilling and heart-breaking, this story will keep you up late into the night, unable to put it down.
Reviewed by: Sarah Scarbrough
She has dark eyes to match the sea. She’s not like the soulless creatures he’s heard stories about. Cora is different. She reminds him of someone he used to know. The way she tilts her head. The way her eyes see right through him. But it can’t be…
Then there’s the Admiral. The men call him the Terror of Tomberlyn. He’s heard of treasure off the coast of Falkeld Island. He doesn’t know the island very well. But his new captive, Kade, does. He’s lived of its coast all his life. The Admiral can’t let an opportunity like this slip him by. Kade will have no choice but to guide his captor where he wants to go.
From being captured by the navy, to almost drowning, to being saved by the legendary killers of men, Kade must uncover the secrets of these beings of legend before it’s too late for his grandfather.
If you like Scottish lore and fairy tale creatures come to life, you’ll love this new read from a very talented writer. A painter of words, Julie Tuovi will put you inside the heads of two characters who were destined to meet and help one another. With her stunning descriptions of the ocean and what it would be like to live underneath its surface, she takes her readers to a new world full of soul stealing and treasure hunting. Thrilling and heart-breaking, this story will keep you up late into the night, unable to put it down.
Reviewed by: Sarah Scarbrough
June 1, 2015
An ARC was given in exchange for an honest review.
The story as a whole was was very detailed. Usually in some books, I find that the author has left major holes in the plot, leaving me with unanswered questions and the feeling of "Wait, what just happened?". However, Tuovi did just the opposite. She covers almost every part of the book, starting with the origins of the sirens(or the mhara as the book calls them) to how the main character Kade gets his abilities and more. The only 'holes' that are present in the story (that aren't really necessary to know in order to understand and enjoy the plot, but would have been really interesting to know) are how exactly Nim came up with Cora's name and the reasoning behind the object of which the mhara soul was placed in. In other words, how do the mhara get their names [as the name "Cora" is very different from her previous name] and why specifically was Cora's soul placed in a shell and Aria's in a black stone pendant?
Tuovi crafts the story in a way that we as readers are able to see the story from both of the main characters, Cora and Kade. Rather than making it so that each character sounds like they have the exact same voice, a big mistake in many books that switch viewpoints, Tuovi shows the individual and unique personalities of the two. Through their perspectives, we are able to feel a range of emotions from infuriation and anguish to wonder and relief.
Overall, the story was very enjoyable; I read it in one sitting. For anyone who enjoys historical fantasy with a hint of very light romance, this is a fun read.
The story as a whole was was very detailed. Usually in some books, I find that the author has left major holes in the plot, leaving me with unanswered questions and the feeling of "Wait, what just happened?". However, Tuovi did just the opposite. She covers almost every part of the book, starting with the origins of the sirens(or the mhara as the book calls them) to how the main character Kade gets his abilities and more. The only 'holes' that are present in the story (that aren't really necessary to know in order to understand and enjoy the plot, but would have been really interesting to know) are how exactly Nim came up with Cora's name and the reasoning behind the object of which the mhara soul was placed in. In other words, how do the mhara get their names [as the name "Cora" is very different from her previous name] and why specifically was Cora's soul placed in a shell and Aria's in a black stone pendant?
Tuovi crafts the story in a way that we as readers are able to see the story from both of the main characters, Cora and Kade. Rather than making it so that each character sounds like they have the exact same voice, a big mistake in many books that switch viewpoints, Tuovi shows the individual and unique personalities of the two. Through their perspectives, we are able to feel a range of emotions from infuriation and anguish to wonder and relief.
Overall, the story was very enjoyable; I read it in one sitting. For anyone who enjoys historical fantasy with a hint of very light romance, this is a fun read.
October 26, 2015
This story was so captivating and different from the usual mermaid tales I've read. The story switches POV between Kade and Cora and it gives you insight to both worlds: the mermaid's, or maighdean mhara, and the human's.
The maighdean mhara feel an uncontrollable urge to kill humans by drowning because they need the souls for Mac Lir, also known as the sea god. So when Cora marks Kade's soul as hers, things start falling out of control between the two, especially when she is unsuccessful with drowning him. But Kade seems different from the other humans and it sparks Cora's curiosity.
Kade knows of the maighdean mhara's existence and wants to capture one because it is said that they grant you a wish. He wants to use this wish to save his Gaffer. But Kade finds himself stuck in a predicament with the soldiers who are stationed on his island home. Instead of seeking the maighdean mhara, he is forced to help the Admiral in his quest for treasure, while catching the attention of Cora.
This books draws you in just by the first page. Julie's writing is well-crafted and alluring and I didn't want to put it down. This is one mermaid tale you won't want to miss.
The maighdean mhara feel an uncontrollable urge to kill humans by drowning because they need the souls for Mac Lir, also known as the sea god. So when Cora marks Kade's soul as hers, things start falling out of control between the two, especially when she is unsuccessful with drowning him. But Kade seems different from the other humans and it sparks Cora's curiosity.
Kade knows of the maighdean mhara's existence and wants to capture one because it is said that they grant you a wish. He wants to use this wish to save his Gaffer. But Kade finds himself stuck in a predicament with the soldiers who are stationed on his island home. Instead of seeking the maighdean mhara, he is forced to help the Admiral in his quest for treasure, while catching the attention of Cora.
This books draws you in just by the first page. Julie's writing is well-crafted and alluring and I didn't want to put it down. This is one mermaid tale you won't want to miss.
June 16, 2015
So it's rare that an author can express such vivid emotions in such few pages. I'm a big Brandon Sanderson fan and a Robert Jordan fan so I'm used to marathon series and several hundred pages of reading before I really start caring about the characters. Not so with SIRENS. Ms Tuovi's talent really lies in developing characters and helping you understand perspective. I'm a fan! What else you got Ms. Tuovi?!?!?!
January 4, 2016
Gripping fantasy novel full of action and adventure. The stories are not just that... The legends are true.
Star crossed from two different worlds. Destined to be on different sides. He wants her help and she suppose to sink all their kind.
Fantastic story that will keep you at the end of your seat right until the end.
*An advanced copy of this book was given to me in exchange for an honest review*
Star crossed from two different worlds. Destined to be on different sides. He wants her help and she suppose to sink all their kind.
Fantastic story that will keep you at the end of your seat right until the end.
*An advanced copy of this book was given to me in exchange for an honest review*
May 4, 2015
Pretty much if there were ten stars, this book would be an eleven. Just sayin'.
Fans of Maggie Stiefvater's The Scorpio Races, and Margo Lanagan's The Brides of Rollrock Island will love this too!
Fans of Maggie Stiefvater's The Scorpio Races, and Margo Lanagan's The Brides of Rollrock Island will love this too!
January 3, 2020
Beautifully written and so gripping! I loved it! Now that I am finished it, I am sad to no longer be present with the characters. I got my sister to read it too and she read it in one day, just like me. She stayed up until 3 am reading it. It is joining the short list of my favourite books of all time, along with Moonfleet, Watership Down, the Hobbit, and Lord of the Rings. :)
But... *Spoiler Alert*
I didn't understand that reference in the epilogue to 9 years.../family in America... ?
What did I miss?
...after reading the author's closing statement at the end the book, I did look up pictures of Fingal Cave in Scotland and it totally fired up my imagination...modelling Falkeld after that was genius :)
But... *Spoiler Alert*
I didn't understand that reference in the epilogue to 9 years.../family in America... ?
What did I miss?
...after reading the author's closing statement at the end the book, I did look up pictures of Fingal Cave in Scotland and it totally fired up my imagination...modelling Falkeld after that was genius :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2023
I read this a while ago and am just now getting around to reviewing it, but overall, very enjoyable!! I loved how thoughtful the historical research seemed to be. I’m no expert about any of it, but it felt like it was transitioned smoothly into the story, along with all the folklore involved. If you’re a fan of mermaids or sirens, don’t forget to pick this one up.
June 24, 2016
"Mermaids. In World War II Scotland."
This is how the book was explained to me by a friend, and those two simple sentences were enough to have me very interested. "Well, I need to read this," I told myself, because the premise was different and fascinating, and because mermaids and Scottish folklore/history sounded like my cup of tea. I immediately tracked down a copy.
I was not disappointed. "Sirens of Falkeld" is a fantastic read, and the author definitely did her research. The story begins with Kade, a young man raised in the Scottish Isles by his grandfather. His father disappeared at sea, and Kade has grown up hearing his grandfather's stories of the magical creatures that roam the isles--among them, the unsettling mermaids that will drown a man to claim his soul.
Now a young man, Kade's grandfather is dying. Desperate to find any cure to save his grandfather's life, Kade turns to long-forgotten methods of coercing a siren to his side, determined to use the siren's magic to save his grandfather.
Along with this tale of magic and mermaids, there is the added complication of a British naval base having been set up on the island. In the course of his quest, Kade finds himself at odds with the commanding Admiral, who sets Kade on a hunt for a long-lost treasure from the Spanish Armada. But the Admiral might be hiding his true motives, and the Kade's martial surroundings might just collide with the sirens he's been seeking.
Tuovi does a wonderful job of juxtaposing the world of 1940's Scotland against the ethereal and otherworldly setting of the sirens' underwater dwellings. Kade's determination to save his last remaining family member leaves you rooting for him, and the story is compelling and beautifully written, drawing you in from the first word--much like the titular sirens do--and not releasing you until well after the last page.
A wonderful read, one I definitely plan on recommending to any and all friends who are looking for a historical fantasy with a slightly different twist, or anyone who is looking for a mermaid story with a little more teeth and a sharper edge.
This is how the book was explained to me by a friend, and those two simple sentences were enough to have me very interested. "Well, I need to read this," I told myself, because the premise was different and fascinating, and because mermaids and Scottish folklore/history sounded like my cup of tea. I immediately tracked down a copy.
I was not disappointed. "Sirens of Falkeld" is a fantastic read, and the author definitely did her research. The story begins with Kade, a young man raised in the Scottish Isles by his grandfather. His father disappeared at sea, and Kade has grown up hearing his grandfather's stories of the magical creatures that roam the isles--among them, the unsettling mermaids that will drown a man to claim his soul.
Now a young man, Kade's grandfather is dying. Desperate to find any cure to save his grandfather's life, Kade turns to long-forgotten methods of coercing a siren to his side, determined to use the siren's magic to save his grandfather.
Along with this tale of magic and mermaids, there is the added complication of a British naval base having been set up on the island. In the course of his quest, Kade finds himself at odds with the commanding Admiral, who sets Kade on a hunt for a long-lost treasure from the Spanish Armada. But the Admiral might be hiding his true motives, and the Kade's martial surroundings might just collide with the sirens he's been seeking.
Tuovi does a wonderful job of juxtaposing the world of 1940's Scotland against the ethereal and otherworldly setting of the sirens' underwater dwellings. Kade's determination to save his last remaining family member leaves you rooting for him, and the story is compelling and beautifully written, drawing you in from the first word--much like the titular sirens do--and not releasing you until well after the last page.
A wonderful read, one I definitely plan on recommending to any and all friends who are looking for a historical fantasy with a slightly different twist, or anyone who is looking for a mermaid story with a little more teeth and a sharper edge.
December 10, 2015
**This review was done in conjunction with NerdGirl. For more information, visit them on Facebook www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.NG/**
Fantastic! I really truly liked this story, and the depth that it had. I'm a big fan of mermaid, especially when they are portrayed in a darker light. That's exactly what this novel does. There's both darkness and light, and it's so wonderful together.
The setting is fantastic, a small island in Scotland during WW2, and it's so perfectly written, described, and highlighted that I fell in love almost instantly, and wanted to head there myself. As for the featured characters, Kade & Cora, the author does a fantastic job giving us an alternating POV story that doesn't leave us confused. The story flows well, and shows us how Kade & Cora's connection grows, and how they need to work together to help save the island, and the people on it. There's also a deeper level to this book. Kade is struggling to save his dying gaffer which is why he tries to even catch a mermaid at all. In taking that fateful chance, everything Kade knows begins to change, and he gets in a bit over is head, in all ways.
The villain (the Admiral) in this story was interesting as well, his consuming need for treasure and something much darker underneath. It really lent itself well to the setting, and the time period, and I instantly hated him. (that didn't change for the whole book, he's an ass).
Overall, the author blends history and myth fantastically, and tells a tale of love, loss, hope and sorrow. It's a beautiful written story and the ending emotionally broke me. It's one of the best mermaid stories I've read recently, and really was impressed by the quality of the author's writing. Well done!
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Fantastic! I really truly liked this story, and the depth that it had. I'm a big fan of mermaid, especially when they are portrayed in a darker light. That's exactly what this novel does. There's both darkness and light, and it's so wonderful together.
The setting is fantastic, a small island in Scotland during WW2, and it's so perfectly written, described, and highlighted that I fell in love almost instantly, and wanted to head there myself. As for the featured characters, Kade & Cora, the author does a fantastic job giving us an alternating POV story that doesn't leave us confused. The story flows well, and shows us how Kade & Cora's connection grows, and how they need to work together to help save the island, and the people on it. There's also a deeper level to this book. Kade is struggling to save his dying gaffer which is why he tries to even catch a mermaid at all. In taking that fateful chance, everything Kade knows begins to change, and he gets in a bit over is head, in all ways.
The villain (the Admiral) in this story was interesting as well, his consuming need for treasure and something much darker underneath. It really lent itself well to the setting, and the time period, and I instantly hated him. (that didn't change for the whole book, he's an ass).
Overall, the author blends history and myth fantastically, and tells a tale of love, loss, hope and sorrow. It's a beautiful written story and the ending emotionally broke me. It's one of the best mermaid stories I've read recently, and really was impressed by the quality of the author's writing. Well done!
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
July 15, 2015
I received this book as an ARC from the author :)
This book is such a nice read! It follows an 18-year-old, Kade, during war-time Scotland, on an island where mhara , or mermaids, are very real, and are often the stuff of nightmares.
SO GOOD!!!!!!!
I loved the characters so much! Cora/Bonnie is an awesome mermaid, because she's not like the others, because of Kade, who is a firm believer of the mhara tales, will go to all ends to help his Gaffer (grandpa), and who is a genuinely good friend!
The admiral is a GREAT villain! His constant quest for power and treasure during such a time really makes him good at being bad!
One thing that I liked about the story, and please let me know if you thought the same, but it kinda reminded me of the latest Pirates of the Caribbean movie! I really appreciated that aspect of it, actually! :D (saying how would be really spoiler-ish ^-^)
The rhythm of the writing was also beautiful, and flashbacks, memories and prices of information came in and out like steady waves, with a storm at the end.
Kade and Cora are so sweet together!!! :3
The epilogue was both happy and very heart-wrenching!
Overall, this book was an amazing, magical debut novel, and I can't wait to see what else this author has to offer in the YA universe! (I'm thinking that his dad's story as a side novel could be very interesting!!)
This book is such a nice read! It follows an 18-year-old, Kade, during war-time Scotland, on an island where mhara , or mermaids, are very real, and are often the stuff of nightmares.
SO GOOD!!!!!!!
I loved the characters so much! Cora/Bonnie is an awesome mermaid, because she's not like the others, because of Kade, who is a firm believer of the mhara tales, will go to all ends to help his Gaffer (grandpa), and who is a genuinely good friend!
The admiral is a GREAT villain! His constant quest for power and treasure during such a time really makes him good at being bad!
One thing that I liked about the story, and please let me know if you thought the same, but it kinda reminded me of the latest Pirates of the Caribbean movie! I really appreciated that aspect of it, actually! :D (saying how would be really spoiler-ish ^-^)
The rhythm of the writing was also beautiful, and flashbacks, memories and prices of information came in and out like steady waves, with a storm at the end.
Kade and Cora are so sweet together!!! :3
The epilogue was both happy and very heart-wrenching!
Overall, this book was an amazing, magical debut novel, and I can't wait to see what else this author has to offer in the YA universe! (I'm thinking that his dad's story as a side novel could be very interesting!!)
March 4, 2016
Generally I am not a fan of books written in first person point of view. However, Sirens has gone some way to changing my mind about that. Well written, engaging and with a good sense of Scotland, both in the dialogue and in the descriptions of the coastal areas, it tells a compelling story of an island with a dark secret. With vivid language, “gutting me like a fish with a frozen blade,” we follow a young man, Kade, as he is forced against his will into searching for a lost treasure. Kade is tormented by memories, things he would rather not remember. Things he has tried to forget. But he too has a secret, one that threatens his life, and more than that, his soul.
Added to that is the constant threat posed by the Mhara, dangerous, unpredictable supernatural beings that live in the sea. Our first introduction to them, as Kora meets one face to face is breathtaking. The tension is real.
Unusually, the author allows us to see the world from the perspective of the enemy, the monstrous creatures that seek only to kill and damn. An unusual viewpoint, which enables the reader to understand, and perhaps even sympathise with them. Not something that I had expected in the least.
Overall a book that, while not perfect, provides enough twists, turns and stomach churning confrontations to satisfy even the most jaded.
Added to that is the constant threat posed by the Mhara, dangerous, unpredictable supernatural beings that live in the sea. Our first introduction to them, as Kora meets one face to face is breathtaking. The tension is real.
Unusually, the author allows us to see the world from the perspective of the enemy, the monstrous creatures that seek only to kill and damn. An unusual viewpoint, which enables the reader to understand, and perhaps even sympathise with them. Not something that I had expected in the least.
Overall a book that, while not perfect, provides enough twists, turns and stomach churning confrontations to satisfy even the most jaded.
December 22, 2015
The Sirens of Falkeld is so full of mystery and suspense; readers will be at the edge of their seats. This is about mermaids, but don’t expect a fairy tale. Tuovi introduces many interesting characters throughout the book and several twists.
Every time you think you have an idea of how this will end, you will be wrong. Once you get used to the dialog, it adds comedy to the magical fantasy, suspense and drama.
Overall, I really enjoyed it, so I give The Sirens of Falkeld 4 stars....Beth
http://www.boundlessbookreviews.com
https://www.facebook.com/BBReviews
Every time you think you have an idea of how this will end, you will be wrong. Once you get used to the dialog, it adds comedy to the magical fantasy, suspense and drama.
Overall, I really enjoyed it, so I give The Sirens of Falkeld 4 stars....Beth
http://www.boundlessbookreviews.com
https://www.facebook.com/BBReviews
May 11, 2015
Such an amazing read! Kade is such a terrific character, and it was SO hard to put the book down! I actually felt like I was there with Kade, desperate to save Gaffer myself! Julie Tuovi is a fantastic writer and I can't wait until she writes MORE!
October 18, 2015
“The Siren’s of Falkeld" is a courageous glimpse of historical details entwined in the tales of Scottish tradition.
Read full review in the 2015 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2015 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
February 5, 2016
I'm a little biased, because I know the author, but I thought this was a haunting and creative story. Non-formulaic and well written, I enjoyed reading this book, because it felt like a departure form the mainstream.
July 17, 2016
Pretty much if there were ten stars, this book would be an eleven. Just sayin'.
Fans of Maggie Stiefvater's The Scorpio Races, and Margo Lanagan's The Brides of Rollrock Island will love this too!
Fans of Maggie Stiefvater's The Scorpio Races, and Margo Lanagan's The Brides of Rollrock Island will love this too!
July 26, 2016
What a beautiful story!
March 31, 2017
The Sirens of Falkeld is a beautifully written story with rich, well-developed characters that pull you into their world from the very start. If mermaids were real, and honestly I won’t be the one to say they aren’t, I imagine that they would be very much like Cora, curious and lovely, but compelled by her nature to kill humans. Her confusion leads to self-awareness and the author has an amazing way of describing the emotions that flood through her when she meets Kade. Their meeting makes Cora question her purpose and ultimately changes her destiny.
Kade believes a wish from a mermaid is what he needs to save his Grandfather’s life. He knows they are real, he saw one the night his father went out to the sea and disappeared. What he isn’t prepared for is just how closely tied Cora is to his past.
Ms. Tuovi’s descriptive writing style is easy to visualize, and allows the reader to experience the characters journey first hand. I will definitely read more from this author, and am looking forward to seeing what she comes up with next.
Genre: YA Fantasy/Mythology
Kade believes a wish from a mermaid is what he needs to save his Grandfather’s life. He knows they are real, he saw one the night his father went out to the sea and disappeared. What he isn’t prepared for is just how closely tied Cora is to his past.
Ms. Tuovi’s descriptive writing style is easy to visualize, and allows the reader to experience the characters journey first hand. I will definitely read more from this author, and am looking forward to seeing what she comes up with next.
Genre: YA Fantasy/Mythology
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews