Skin of the Sea by Natasha Bowen has been sitting on my shelves for the longest time, and I’m so glad I finally picked it up.
We follow Simi, a Mami Wata, whose duty is to collect the souls of those who die at sea and blessing their journeys back home. When she rescues a boy named Kola, breaking an ancient rule, she sets off a chain of events that could spell disaster for her kind. What follows is a sweeping journey filled with mythical beings, loyal allies, and danger lurking at every turn.
One of my favourite things about this book was the rich weaving of West African mythology and Yoruba culture into the story. The concept of Black mermaids honouring and guiding the souls of those lost at sea is both heartbreaking and powerful. Bowen blends the brutal history of the trans-Atlantic slave trade with ancient spiritual knowledge and folklore in a way that feels deeply respectful and immersive.
The adventure itself is gripping, with plenty of twists to keep you turning the pages but beyond the action, this is a story that carries real emotional weight.
I loved the cast of characters, the pacing felt spot on and the world-building was lush without being overwhelming. Overall, Skin of the Sea is a poignant, thought-provoking tale of love, courage and resistance and one that will absolutely linger long after the final page.
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Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd
Format: Paperback, 336 pages
ISBN: 9780241413975
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Here’s the synopsis
This is the story of a great love – a love that will threaten worlds and anger Gods.
This is a story that will change history.
Simidele is one of the Mami Wata, mermaids duty-bound to collect the souls of those who die at sea and bless their journeys back home to the Supreme Creator.
But when a living boy is thrown overboard a slave ship, Simi saves his life, going against an ancient decree and bringing terrible danger to the mami wata.
Now Simi must journey to the Supreme Creator to make amends – a journey of vengeful gods, treacherous lands and legendary creatures. If she fails, she risks not just the fate of all Mami Wata, but also the world as she knows it.
What Caz Read 