'the best interpretation and depiction of a mermaid I have witnessed'

Written by Stephanie Ramlogan for Paper Based Bookshop Advent Calendar 2020 on Saturday, December 4th, 2021

Stephanie says, "The Mermaid of Black Conch is not just one of my absolute favourite books that I've ever read, but it is also the best interpretation and depiction of a mermaid I have witnessed. The realism is convincing and almost plausible. Monique Roffey glides through Caribbean history, language, unconventional love, family drama, womanhood, macocious neighbours and nostalgic terrain, with details so intimate that you can smell and feel everything. She provides a refreshing concept of beauty, and how lovers love. The book is almost impossible to put down, as through the chapters it breaks and rebuilds your heart over and over again."