The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea

The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea by Maggie Tokuda-Hall is a sweeping fantasy novel that follows two unlikely characters—Florian, a pirate with a secret past, and Lady Evelyn Hasegawa, a highborn Imperial daughter. Florian, originally born as Flora, has long survived by sailing under false pretenses as a marauder on the ship Dove. Evelyn, bound for an arranged marriage in the Floating Islands, is carrying with her a mysterious casket. Their fates intertwine when the Dove's crew reveals their true colors, enslaving the wealthy passengers, including Evelyn. Both Florian and Evelyn have been shaped by the whims of others, but when they find each other, they decide to take control of their own destinies.

As their love story unfolds, the novel weaves a tale of stolen memories, mermaid's blood, and dangerous mythical creatures. The couple must fight against forces—both human and supernatural—that seek to control their identities. Set against a backdrop of high seas adventure, betrayal, and haunting mysteries, The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea is a powerful story about love, defiance, and the pursuit of freedom in the face of overwhelming odds.