The Mermaid of Black Conch: Winner of the Costa Book of the Year 2020

This summer, immerse yourself in the captivating allure of the ocean with the mesmerizing, award-winning novel that clinched the Costa Book of the Year title in 2020. As Bernardine Evaristo remarks, this book showcases 'a unique talent'. The narrative unfolds near the island of Black Conch, where a fisherman named David passes the time singing, hoping to catch something in his nets. Unexpectedly, his melodies draw the attention of Aycayia, a young and innocent woman trapped in the form of a mermaid by the spiteful curse of envious wives. Captured by visiting American tourists, Aycayia is saved by David, who becomes determined to earn her trust. Their connection grows as Aycayia painfully regains her human form. However, as their bond deepens, they realize the world around them is shifting, and the curse haunting Aycayia remains a looming threat they cannot ignore indefinitely. BBC News describes the story as 'a bittersweet love story . . . A joy to read', while The Times calls it 'a fiercely modern mermaid story'. The Sunday Times praises it as 'wondrous . . . A striking achievement', with Margaret Atwood noting it's 'not your standard mermaid' tale.