Tideborn (Drowned World, #2) Review: A Journey of Resilience and Rebuilding
As a book lover, it’s not often that I find myself deeply transported by a tale of mermaids and multicultural conflicts, yet Eliza Chan’s Tideborn, the second novel in the Drowned World duology, holds a special place in my heart. Picking up right where Fathomfolk left off, this continued saga of Mira, Nami, and Cordelia deeply resonated with me—as it explores not just survival in a world turned upside down, but the beautiful complexity of rebuilding lives amid chaos.
From the very first pages, the ruins of a city—once teeming with life—serve as a poignant backdrop for our characters’ journeys through grief and loss. Chan truly shines in her intricate portrayal of Mia and Nami, showcasing their personal growth while navigating the tumultuous waters of their new existence. Nami’s evolution from the angry, rebellious mermaid I initially met into a mature, grounded figure was particularly captivating. It felt as if I were witnessing a dear friend blossom, which brought with it both joy and reflection—reminding me that every personal struggle can lead to a form of redemption.
Mira’s journey toward healing is just as powerful, forcing me to confront my own emotional landscapes. Readers, be prepared to feel deeply: Chan’s use of poetic language paired with evocative imagery had me highlighting passages, lost in their rhythm. One moment that caught me was when Chan writes about the fragility of hope: “In a world drowned, it’s hope that swims against the tide.” Isn’t that a profound reminder of our own pursuits in life?
However, as much as I enjoyed these characters, Cordelia’s journey felt a bit different. While she does experience a redemption arc, I found myself yearning for a deeper emotional connection with her character. At times, her past actions loomed too large over her development, making it hard to forgive and fully engage with her storyline. Though her redemption is sought, it occasionally felt like a slightly uneven thread in an otherwise vibrant tapestry.
The pacing of Tideborn is worth mentioning too; while it may lull at moments during introspective passages, these moments are necessary for the emotional heft they carry. Chan successfully dives into the multifaceted theme of cultural coexistence, showing how disparate cultures struggle to find harmony—a relevant and thought-provoking aspect that echoes in our current global narrative.
In conclusion, Tideborn is a novel that will undoubtedly resonate with readers who loved Fathomfolk. It captivates with its richly woven themes of culture, community, and the relentless journey toward understanding. While some character arcs may leave you wishing for more, the book’s overall exploration of loss, resilience, and rebuilding makes it an emotionally satisfying journey. If you’re in the mood for a fantasy that prompts introspection and reconnection with one’s roots, then I wholeheartedly recommend diving into Chan’s enchanting world.
Personally, this read left me pondering my own paths to healing and understanding—reminding me that, like the characters, we’re all navigating through our own Drowned Worlds, seeking the tide that will carry us home.
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