The Mermaid of Black Conch

Escape to the ocean with the entrancing, unforgettable winner of the Costa Book of the Year – as read on BBC Radio 4.

‘Mesmerising’ MAGGIE O’FARRELL

‘A unique talent’ BERNARDINE EVARISTO

‘Wonderful’ BRIDGET COLLINS

‘Brilliant’ CLARE CHAMBERS

Near the island of Black Conch, a fisherman sings to himself while waiting for a catch. But David attracts a sea-dweller that he never expected – Aycayia, an innocent young woman cursed by jealous wives to live as a mermaid.

When American tourists capture Aycayia, David rescues her and vows to win her trust. Slowly, painfully, she transforms into a woman again. Yet as their love grows, they discover that the world around them is changing – and they cannot escape the curse for ever . . .

‘A bittersweet love story . . . A joy to read’ BBC News

‘A fiercely modern mermaid story’ The Times

‘Wondrous . . . A striking achievement’ Sunday Times

‘Not your standard mermaid’ MARGARET ATWOOD

‘Exquisite’ ELIZABETH MACNEAL