Oceansong by C.W. Rose takes readers on a captivating journey into the world of Angie Song, a snarky and guarded aspiring marine biologist who loves working at the docks in her Alaskan hometown. The story begins with Angie waiting for the last boat to dock, only to discover that the fish supply has been mysteriously dwindling over the past few weeks. Concerned about the impact on her local fishing village, Angie decides to investigate. Her summer spent with her beloved Baba, sister Mia, niece Rose, and her often-irritating brother-in-law Nick takes an unexpected turn when Angie discovers that merfolk are real and responsible for the disappearing fish. This discovery propels her into a conflict between her family and the villagers, who vow to destroy the merfolk, and her budding alliance with Mer-Prince Kaden, who seeks peace between their worlds. As tensions rise, Angie finds herself torn between loyalty to her family and her growing connection with Kaden, leading to a forbidden romance that could change everything.

What makes Oceansong especially appealing to fans of sci-fi romance is its rich character development and intricate plot. Angie is a compelling protagonist, balancing her snarky exterior with a deep-seated dedication to her community and a passion for marine biology. Her interactions with Kaden, who is equally snarky yet principled, are filled with chemistry and tension, adding layers to their relationship. The story expertly explores themes of loyalty, identity, and the clash of cultures, all set against the backdrop of a beautifully depicted Alaskan fishing village. C.W. Rose’s ability to blend the fantastical elements of merfolk with the realistic struggles of a community reliant on natural resources creates a narrative that is both enchanting and thought-provoking. Readers will be drawn in by the high-stakes drama and the emotional depth of the characters, making Oceansong a must-read for those who enjoy a blend of romance, mystery, and fantasy.

In Oceansong, C. W. Rose has created a world where merfolk come alive and readers experience the underwater world as seen by scuba divers, all from the comfort of their couch. The inhabitants of Creston, a fishing town in Alaska, are anxious about their dwindling fish supply. Angie Song, a dock worker and aspiring marine biologist, joins her townsfolk to solve this mystery. When they discover that merfolk are the culprits, it throws Angie into a brewing war between the species. A mer prince, Kaden, extends an olive branch, hoping to end the bloodshed. Delving into the mer world, Angie struggles with her passion for Kaden and her duty to her family and loved ones on land. In a moment when every decision has dire consequences, will Angie be able to choose without losing everything she holds dear?

Oceansong by C. W. Rose is a paranormal romance that also focuses on environmental destruction, especially the sea and its creatures, and the consequences of human actions on other species. The world-building was imaginative. I loved the vivid descriptions used to paint a picture of the underwater world, the architecture of the mer city, the bioluminescent creatures, and even the textures of seaweed and coral. The story is presented from a third-person perspective, focusing on Angie’s thoughts and feelings. C. W. Rose has liberally used figurative language, similes, and metaphors to create the imagery. Angie and Kaden are both well-developed characters who are curious, adventurous, and willing to find a solution to the ongoing war between the species. The narrative presents the perspectives of the fishermen, who rely on fishing for their livelihood, and the merfolk, who believe that humans are exploiting the sea’s resources out of greed, not necessity. At one point in the story, I wondered if destruction would be the only way out. The narrative also brings to light the importance of communication and understanding between species. Oceansong has left me mulling about the need for harmony between humans and nature.