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I read this magical book during some of the hottest days of this year, which contributed to making it more dream like. Out fishing, David, a fisherman on a small Caribbean island, encounters Aycayia, a mermaid, cursed by jealous women to live in the sea for eternity. A wordless courtship begins. But then Aycayia is caught by American tourists, father and son, who want to possess and make a trophy of her. David makes a decision which will change the course of many lives. Can Aycayia exist out of the water, and how? Part fable, part poem, all love story, The Mermaid of Black Conch is about transformation, and the secrets the heart can carry for centuries. It sings with beauty and sadness, and will stay with you long after you read it. I was mesmerised by it.

Sophie Dahl

- Sophie Dahl