Teen Book Review: TEMPEST RISING by Tracy Deebs

TEMPEST RISING

by Tracy Deebs

pub: May 10

Teen Paranormal Fiction (Mermaids)

Amazon / Website

Tempest Maguire wants nothing more than to surf the killer waves near her California home; continue her steady relationship with her boyfriend, Mark; and take care of her brothers and surfer dad. But Tempest is half mermaid, and as her seventeenth birthday approaches, she will have to decide whether to remain on land or give herself to the ocean like her mother. The pull of the water becomes as insistent as her attraction to Kai, a gorgeous surfer whose uncanny abilities hint at an otherworldly identity as well. And when Tempest does finally give in to the water's temptation and enters a fantastical underwater world, she finds that a larger destiny awaits her—and that the entire ocean's future hangs in the balance.

 Tracy Deebs creates Mermaid Magic with TEMPEST RISING!

I was captivated by this fresh and unique tale. Tempest's strong voice  hooked me from the start. On the surface she seems to have it all going on, but underneath the storm's a-brewing - she's a mess!

She's sprouting gills, angry that her mermaid-mom ditched the family, and has a big decision looming about her future - mermaid or human. And Deebs has us right there with her in that writhing pit of conflicting emotions.

The surfing angle was fun and there's a good dose of romance. Mark, her regular steady, is sweet, sexy, and genuinely cares for Tempest. But then the uber hot, Kai, shows up and steals the show with his playful, flirty, yet strong, mysterious deliciousness!

Once Tempest heads out of the human realm, the pace really kicks into high gear. I loved the vivid 'other' worlds, both underwater and the magical lands, as well as the interesting creatures, including a nasty sea witch and her minions. The exciting action, increasing romantic heat along with good twists and dark consequences kept me riveted. Tempest takes a beating emotionally and physically, but she's strong and determined and can kick butt when she has to.

A terrific coming of age story, delivering drama and thrills while showing how people and life are complicated, and the choices we must make are difficult and far from black-and-white. 

TEMPEST RISING is delightfully refreshing. An excellent mix of fast-paced action, mystery, romance and emotion played out with characters who reveal plenty of depth. A fantastic adventure!