Dive into the enchanting world of Amanda Hocking’s Watersong series, where the ocean’s mysteries and mermaid magic weave a spellbinding tale! This young adult paranormal fantasy quartet follows sisters Gemma and Harper Fisher as they navigate love, danger, and a siren’s curse in the seaside town of Capri. With its fresh take on mermaid lore, Watersong blends romance, suspense, and coming-of-age themes, making it a must-read for fantasy fans.
Hocking, a self-publishing sensation turned New York Times bestseller, crafts a world where beauty hides dark secrets, and sisterhood is the ultimate strength. Ready to lose yourself in a story that’s as captivating as a siren’s song? Let’s explore Watersong’s origins, stories, and lasting charm!
How Watersong Began
Amanda Hocking, known for her Trylle trilogy, launched Watersong with Wake in 2012, inspired by her love for paranormal tales and Greek mythology. After selling over a million self-published eBooks, she signed a $2 million deal with St. Martin’s Press, cementing her status as a publishing powerhouse. Hocking’s fascination with sirens—mythical creatures who lure with beauty and song—sparked a series that reimagines mermaids as both alluring and dangerous, set against a modern coastal backdrop.
The Heart of Watersong
The Watersong series spans four books: Wake (2012), Lullaby (2012), Tidal (2013), and Elegy (2013), with a prequel novella, Forgotten Lyrics. In Wake, Gemma, a talented swimmer, is transformed into a siren after a night with mysterious newcomers Penn, Thea, and Lexi. As she grapples with her new powers and dark hungers, her practical sister Harper fights to save her. Lullaby deepens the stakes as Gemma’s loved ones confront the sirens’ deadly influence, while Tidal and Elegy build to a thrilling climax, exploring Gemma’s quest to break the curse and reclaim her life.
Watersong’s themes of identity, family, and sacrifice resonate deeply, wrapped in Hocking’s vivid world-building. The series stands out for its darker spin on mermaid mythology, blending Greek lore with modern romance and suspense. Capri’s seaside setting amplifies the story’s pull, with the ocean serving as both a haven and a threat. Fans praise Hocking’s attention to character dynamics, especially the contrasting bond between free-spirited Gemma and protective Harper, which grounds the fantastical elements.
Why Watersong Resonates
Watersong has carved a niche in young adult fantasy, captivating readers with its unique siren mythology and emotional depth. Hocking’s ability to blend paranormal thrills with relatable coming-of-age struggles has earned the series a loyal following. Its exploration of sisterhood and self-discovery speaks to teens and adults alike, while its fast-paced plots and romantic subplots keep readers hooked. Though less mainstream than Hocking’s Trylle series, Watersong’s cult status endures, with fans on platforms like Goodreads lauding its refreshing take on mermaids.
The series also highlights Hocking’s trailblazing journey as a self-published author, inspiring aspiring writers. Its influence lingers in the paranormal fantasy genre, where it paved the way for more diverse mythological retellings. Watersong remains a testament to the power of storytelling that dares to dive deep into the unknown.
- Publication Years: 2012–2013
- Number of Books: 4 novels, 1 novella
- Genre: Young Adult Paranormal Fantasy
- Author: Amanda Hocking
Grab Wake and dive into Watersong’s mesmerizing blend of magic, mystery, and mermaid lore! Whether you’re a fantasy lover or just craving a thrilling escape, this series will pull you under its spell.