Christy fictional_traits's Reviews > The Sirens

'I know people who said they've heard it, standing on the beach at night. Voices, coming from the waves. Women's voices'.

Lucy awakes with a start, horrified, mystified at what she's done. There's only one thing to do: flee. Loathe to admit anything to her parents, only her estranged sister, Jess, is left to turn to. Although they've not been in contact in ages, Lucy makes her way to Comber Bay - a sleepy town best known for its own series of mysterious disturbances. Indeed, when Lucy finally knocks on Jess's door, she discovers that not only is she not at home, it's clear she fled. More ominous is the painting in Jess's studio, depicting two sisters standing in front of the ocean, two sisters who have been haunting Lucy's vivid dreams. Lucy must take a step back; in time and from everything she's ever believed, in order to truly understand herself and her family.

'The Sirens' is told in a dual timeline, one contemporary and the other from over 200 years in the past. The story's multiple POVS create a haunting, atmospheric tale of betrayal, lies, love, and acceptance - anointed by the magic of the sea: its wisdom and fantastical myths. The clarity of water distills the truth, and cleanses them so that they may find a different future.

Despite all the success of Weyward, this is my first novel from Emilia Hart, and I was taken away on a journey with it. Like most good stories, it does take a while to build and get to know the characters. Being shrouded in some mystery, the story a slow burn but takes the reader on an evocative journey along the way. This book will suit historical fiction fans who also appreciate magical realism.

'I have always seen this. This moment. Us, changed by the sea.'