Revenge vs. Justice

DAGANA: THE LAST MERMAID by Kody Boye is a cryptid-thriller for YA or new adult fiction readers. During Christmas break, Jessica's parents are both found dead, their bodies savagely mutilated by some unidentifiable creature. Unfortunately, the beach is not closed and more people die.

The transition from teen to adult is difficult enough, but with the murders and the nightmares overwhelming Jessica, she begins having panic attacks. In addition to the multiple deaths, she is also dealing with a new relationship, as well as some violent mean girls tormenting her at school. After having her fear confirmed by two others who have witnessed the sea creature, Jessica feels she is the only one who can make the waters safe again.

While I did find Jessica's thoughts and feelings well-developed, I think Boye missed a great opportunity to create a more complicated and unpredictable storyline. The author could have revealed the source of Dagana's fury through her own POV, forcing readers to decide for themselves who is or isn't a victim. If anyone could pull off such opposing viewpoints from two characters, it is Boye.

If you're looking for a different coming-of-age story, this novel will definitely pull you into the darkness.

As always,
AstraDaemon

The Beautiful Ones Rise From The Ashes

THE BATTLE WITHIN by Kody Boye is the final book in THE BEAUTIFUL ONES trilogy. This book begins exactly where the second one ended, with Kelendra joining up with The Southern Saints. The Countess is planning to use nuclear weapons against the North, which will likely trigger a similar response, but the three surviving Beautiful Ones have a plan to give the country back to the people.

The author has created such a detailed dystopian drama featuring eugenics and civil war, readers might be slightly disappointed with the lack of resolution in the ending. However, I would like to remind everyone, this series has always been Kelendra's coming-of-age story. From an unknown country girl to an ambassador of a revolution, from daughter to wife and more, she has discovered something more powerful than beauty: faith.

With faith in her friends, her allies and, most importantly, herself, Kelendra is determined not only to save her people, but she hopes to save the world from nuclear fallout. This young woman's personal battle is a trilogy I can recommend to readers of all ages.

As always,
AstraDaemon