This was a well written and a unique story, with a really interesting blend of pure fantastical elements and historical accuracy. I was just expecting something more or different. I think I went into this expecting a bit of a horror/mystery slant, or even a new twist on mermaid tales, but got something that was a lot more introspective. More around the importance of remembering your own and your cultures history, understanding the impact of generational trauma. Based on the evolution of a species from pregnant African slaves being thrown overboard. This book is about the burdens you have to accept and endure for those around you, from the culture you are from, the desire to forget and the mental health impacts this duality has. It was interesting to read all these heavy themes with gender fluid and lesbian characters wrapped in a mythical story all, without it seeming forced. It was strong and poignant, if slow paced. It took me a while to get though this.