From Goodreads: Kaia’s entire life has erupted in flames after an assassin appears and burns her village down. She’s rescued by a god from another planet who requests her help because she’s the descendant of their last savior. Together with Reeze — the only other survivor from her village and her appointed guardian — they set off on a quest to find the treasures of the gods in hopes of preventing a dire prophesy. Kaia and Reeze quickly meet the Tueors, a group of people many thought extinct, who are searching specifically for Kaia. Their intention: to protect the truth. As Kaia discovers more about the truth and her family’s past, she also learns of the Tueors’ bloody secret. Will Kaia be the savior the gods have been waiting for? Or will she let the prophesy come true?

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This was a very interesting novel, especially as it deals with different worlds, complete with mermaids/mermen, gods and goddesses, and even vampires.  Although I didn’t always agree with, or like, Kaia’s character, I must say that she has spunk!  She has the world pulled out from under her, in a way, as everything she ever knew, and everyone she ever loved, is taken away from her in one foul swoop, yet she remains strong and is able to quickly overcome feelings of despair.  I really liked her based on this aspect alone, and though I thought some of the decisions she made were not the best, per say, I think, overall, that Freitas did a great job creating a round main character in Kaia. 

Reeze is another interesting character, and though all the foreshadowing within the novel pointed in one direction, I remained stoutly by his side, even as he was cast into doubt by others around him.  He’s a quiet brooding type, handsome and reclusive, yet caring just the same.  Just like with Kaia, although I didn’t always agree with him or his actions, I truly enjoyed him as a character.

Freitas has created a great novel for MG and YA, and although it can be a little slow at times, the plotline and characters are interesting enough that it keeps the reader bound to it.  I really enjoyed reading about the many different types of heroes that Freitas has strung together in her novel, and watching this unlikely crew, humans, mermaids, vampires, Tuoers, and demigods all work together to save and protect Kaia was a real treat.  Three and a half stars.

I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.