The Little Mermaid: Against the Tide

This young adult novel, inspired by Disney's The Little Mermaid, delves into a compelling underwater mystery and family drama. After the death of their mother, King Triton's seven daughters have grown apart. When Ariel's sister Mala is abducted, Ariel, at fifteen, must unite her estranged siblings on a dangerous quest. They travel through various seas, outsmarting creatures and exploring forbidden waters to uncover secrets about their family and the true circumstances of their mother's death. The story explores themes of grief, sisterhood, leadership, and resilience, making it suitable for readers aged 12-18 who enjoy fantasy, adventure, and mysteries with emotional depth. Parents should note the central themes of loss and family estrangement, handled with a focus on healing and empowerment.

After the death of Ariel’s mother, the queen of the sea, the seven daughters of King Triton have grown estranged at best. It’s been years since Ariel’s older sisters have visited home. But this year’s Coral Moon is fast approaching, and it’s a special one for Ariel. Finally fifteen, she will be dubbed the Protector of her very own ocean territory as is tradition, and her sisters have agreed to visit for the celebration. But the ceremony is halted when Mala, one of the most renowned daughters of Triton, is abducted. The only clue to where she might have been taken is a hastily scribbled seaweed note, which says, “What could have saved Mother could save me, too.” To rescue Mala, Ariel must work together with her siblings, traveling to various seas, outsmarting dangerous ocean creatures, and delving into forbidden waters to find the truth of what happened to their mother. But as Ariel and her sisters begin uncovering new secrets about their family and their kingdom, Ariel will have to face the loss of a mother she never had a chance to know and discover what it means to be both a good sister and a strong leader. And the clock is ticking, because on the day of the festival, when the moon turns a true shade of coral, her sister will be lost, like her mother, forever.