Fathomfolk

In the semi-submerged city of Tiankawi, a clash of cultures and a fight for survival ensue when humans and fathomfolk, who live in the polluted waters below, come into contact. Mira, a half-siren who has risen to the position of captain of the border guard, is determined to help her people, but her efforts are jeopardized when Nami, a know-it-all water dragon and fathomfolk princess, is exiled to the city. When extremists sabotage a city festival, violence erupts, and the clampdown on fathomfolk rights intensifies. Mira and Nami must decide if the cost of change is worth paying, or if Tiankawi should be left to drown.

Format: Hardback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Prepare to be immersed in a captivating world that mirrors our own, where oppression presents no straightforward solutions and success comes at a heavy price. This unforgettable fantasy novel blends fast-paced action with profound social depth, making it a must-read for enthusiasts of the genre.

Set in the semi-submerged city of Tiankawi, Shelley Parker-Chan's debut fantasy is inspired by East Asian mythology and ocean folk tales. It revolves around a brewing revolution between humans and the fathomfolk, who inhabit the polluted waters beneath them.

Tiankawi appears to be a shining pearl of human civilization, offering refuge to those seeking safety from civil unrest. However, the reality is quite different. Humans dominate the semi-flooded city, towering over the fathomfolk, including sirens, seawitches, kelpies, and kappas.

For Mira, a half-siren who has risen to the position of captain of the border guard, it represents a chance to improve the lives of her oppressed people. But her task becomes increasingly challenging when Nami, a know-it-all water dragon and fathomfolk princess, is exiled to the city under Mira's watch.

As tensions escalate and extremists disrupt a city festival, violence breaks out, and the government begins to crack down on fathomfolk rights. Mira and Nami are forced to confront the harsh reality of their situation and decide whether the cost of change is worth pursuing or if Tiankawi should be allowed to drown.

This novel is a vivid and textured exploration of migration, prejudice, and change. It offers a captivating portrayal of a world that is both familiar and utterly unique, filled with intricate characters, intricate plotlines, and breathtaking imagery.

Aliette de Bodard, one of the most acclaimed fantasy authors of our time, praises this novel as "wonderful and breathtaking." She praises the author's ability to create a world that has as many turns as the tide, and expresses her hope to see more of this world and this author in the future.

Sarah Rees Brennan, another renowned fantasy author, also praises the novel, describing it as "a richly imagined and captivating tale of migration, prejudice, and change." She praises the author's ability to blend fast-paced action with profound social depth, creating a novel that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, "The Water Dancer" is a must-read fantasy novel that transports readers to a world that is both familiar and utterly unique. It blends fast-paced action with profound social depth, creating a captivating tale of migration, prejudice, and change. The novel's vivid and textured portrayal of a world dominated by humans and the fathomfolk offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. Whether you are a fan of fantasy or simply seeking a novel that challenges your perspective, "The Water Dancer" is an unforgettable and must-read experience.

Weight: 666g
Dimension: 244 x 165 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780356522395