"What readers will remember are the exceedingly well drawn atmospheric setting and the winning heroine, torn between her two callings," claims Publishers Weekly.

The entire fantasy is solidly based, with a maritime culture that permeates every aspect of life, including the Royal Ballet. Readers can almost smell the briny air, taste the hint of salt on the wind, and feel the rough texture of the beach and the coolness of the waves. Even the major deity referred to throughout, the Sea Maid, travels the sea in a large scallop shell drawn by a team of six blue sea horses and sends the Black Ship, escorted by silver dolphins, to claim the souls of the dead. Cerinthe's memory of seeing the Black Ship come for her mother is chilling. Shipbuilders are held in high esteem, particularly since ships are the only means of travel between the islands forming the...