Reviews
A Mermaid's Kiss
Sensual Romance
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2nd Place RWA-RWI More Than Magic Contest
3rd Place FF&P Prism Award
ParaNormal Romance Reviews
Reviewed by Sonya Harrison
September 2008
Rating: 5 Stars
http://www.paranormalromance.org
“An absolute pleasure to read…beautiful, sensual, and uplifting”
A MERMAID’S KISS is that rare experience that reminds us of why we read. This story spoke to me on so many levels that I found myself completely drawn into Anna and Jonah’s world, hoping to find answers of my own along the way. Readers will connect with Jonah’s struggle to cope with the weariness of his spirit while Anna reminds us of the enduring strength and renewal of hope that comes from love. Joey W. Hill has written a beautifully sensual novel that compels us to consider the story beyond the last page of the book. Her talent and strength as a writer is evident as she weaves imagery and symbolism into the story with ease. At turns humorous and at times heart-wrenching, this novel flows with depth and emotion – an absolute pleasure to read.
I am in awe of this book. I have read lots of books, and many are enjoyable. Some make an impression while some blend in with all the others. A MERMAID’S KISS remains with me, and I imagine it will for a long time to come.
Night Owl Romance
Reviewed by Zollyanna
October 2008
Hearts: 5/5 - Reviewer Top Pick
http://www.nightowlromance.com
Joey W. Hill is an amazing author; her characters spring to life before your eyes. The story pulls you in and keeps your attention, and, before you know it, you are done with the book. This is definitely a novel that I will add to my growing collection of Joey W. Hill books. This is also the first in a series, so I'll be looking forward to picking up the next. You can't go wrong with a Joey W. Hill book.
Wild on Books
Reviewed by Jennifer
August 2008
Rating: 5 Bookmarks
http://www.wildonbooks.com
Oh my. As big a fan as I am of Joey W. Hill’s work, I really didn’t expect A MERMAID’S KISS. In fact, I’ll go on the record right now saying I believe this to be her best work yet. Fans used to her sexy brand of romance will be more than thrilled with that element in this book, but this story is so much more than that. The author has crafted a tale that inspires hope and faith along with love and romance. Truly, A MERMAID’S KISS has a depth to it that touches the soul along with the heart, inciting the reader to embrace their own faith in a benevolent higher power.
Jonah is just heart-breaking. His despair is so intense it makes one wonder just how he will be able to find his way out of the darkness that engulfs him. Yet along the way, we see glimpses of his heart that tell us he isn’t completely lost, even if he himself doesn’t realize it. Anna sees it, though. With her effervescent personality and her ability to find joy in the smallest of things, she is the perfect foil for his darkness, warming Jonah with a heart that is absolutely pure.
For a compelling story of faith and redemption, infused with plenty of searing romance, pick up a copy of Joey W. Hill’s A MERMAID’S KISS!
Penelope's Romance Reviews
Reviewed by Penelope
January 2009
Rating: Grade A+
http://www.penelopesromancereviews.blogspot.com/
My good friend Michelle once gently suggested that I check out an author named JR Ward, not knowing that I would turn into one of those (slightly) deranged fans who actually joined The Black Dagger Brotherhood message boards on this author's website. Point being, Michelle is chock full of excellent recommendations. This past weekend she told me to check out Joey W. Hill and offered me her copy of A Mermaid's Kiss (which, let's face it, she's never getting back!). I am in love! What an amazing author, what an amazing book...it has the perfect combination of lusty sex and that emotional love connection I crave in romances. It also has an awesome paranormal world with angels, demons, witches, mermaids, fairies, dragons....you name it, she's got it. Jonah (an angel who is the Prime Legion Commander for the Goddess) is the kind of tortured hero I cannot resist. As he struggles with his inner demons, Anna (an innocent and loving mermaid) reawakens his will to live. Hill is one incredible writer...I was sucked into the story from page one and totally forgot I was reading a book until my kids got back from school and ran screaming into the house. (Then I set them up with a snack and locked myself in my bedroom until I finished). I am now going to Amazon to order the next installment, A Witch's Beauty. Thank you, Michelle...I owe you one!
The Romance Readers Connection
Reviewed by Sarah Silversmith
November 2008
Rating: 4 1/2 plugs - Ultimate Paranormal Romance
http://theromancereadersconnection.com
Wow! I know that is not the most eloquent of expressions, but…..wow! I am almost speechless after reading A MERMAID'S KISS. I am so stunned, and overwhelmed by the story and the writing I do not truly know where to begin this review. I have read Ms. Hill's books, going back to the beginning of her Ellora's Cave offerings and I have always enjoyed the style and depth of her stories. She has always taken chances, written about differences and ideas that are not necessarily easy to grasp, but I think she's outdone herself with this one.
There is nothing I hate more than reading a "preachy" story. Proselytizing one's beliefs or expounding upon what is morally right is a sure fire way to get me to detest a book. Ms. Hill writes an incredible story about angels, and faith and the supernatural (God/Goddess) that encompasses all religious (and even non religious) thought. Flirting with philosophy and asking difficult questions about what makes us who we are. There are parts to this story that make you THINK and others that solely make you FEEL.
Anna and Jonah are sensual creatures so do not let the spiritual overtones of this story fool you, the sex is varied and hot. There is a lot of symbolism, and concrete issues tackled in this book. A reader can get in depth or skim the surface and enjoy this book equally. A MERMAID'S KISS is an outstanding offering, but be warned, it is not light and fluffy; there are parts that are dark and nitty-gritty.
Leontine's Book Realm
Reviewed by Leontine
October 2009
Rating: 4 1/2 stars
http://leontine1976.blogspot.com/
If there is one cover I noticed in my early days of blog hopping this year then it is the one of A Mermaid’s Kiss and it compelled me to look further then what met my eye. When I read the synopsis I could only wonder how an angel and a mermaid would get a happily ever after together. Now after closing the book all I can do is sit here and ride the last emotional waves of my first experience with a novel from Joey W Hill.
Because with each chapter read I fell more and more for the characters and world this author created. A Mermaid’s Kiss is not a story you would want to read for the extensive thrilling action, nor for the rich abundance in world building, and I will honestly say that this kind of storytelling is an acquired taste. Still, the love story is of such an exquisite quality it just knocked me off my feet with its ending.
The journey Anna and Jonah undertake on land not only speaks of the erotic pull between them with the Joining Magic but also of faith, perception, wisdom, healing and the knowledge of their impossible love. These aspects give the romance such depth and it grows with each moment spent together, with each conversation and with each page I read. Every separate thread would lead to a conclusion that would make this an unforgettable read for me.
Because the story was so condensed in a character and emotion driven aspect I really connected with Jonah’s internal struggles. The questions why he still battled the Dark Ones after so many centuries? Why did he still wanted to fight for the Lady when it was a never ending cycle. What was the point in the end? All his emotions came across with a desperation that made him feel so real and made him so realistic in his actions. The quest revolved around the salvation of a powerful angel and this is where Anna comes in to play.
Two very strong characters in their own way and with the lyrical and poised prose it often just threw me in to the emotion of the moment. That is the true strength of this author; the ability to touch upon such a range of emotions. Another hallmark essence of this author is the provocative sensuality which at times gave my imagination a stretch in the erotically charged scenes.
A Mermaid’s Kiss; what started out with the love for a cover and the interest piqued with its synopsis turned out to be an enthralling and emotionally powerful read.
Romance Reviews Today
Reviewed by Allegra Alston
November 2008
http://storywitch.com
I never could have imagined that the love between an angel and a mermaid could be so visually stimulating and erotically impressive. With the use of inventive imagery and brilliantly descriptive characters, this tale defines erotic romance at its best. Joey Hill provides the reader with adventure, multi-dimensional characters, love and even humor to keep the momentum going. Jonah's dominant and deliriously sexy aura is so intoxicating, yet he's equally intuitive and sensitive while interacting with children. It's interesting to watch the interaction between a mermaid who yearns for closeness as she fights so desperately to protect an angel ironically destined to protect all of mankind. A MERMAID'S KISS is a riveting tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat and satisfy your craving for a deeper sense of love and emotion.
Eye on Romance
Reviewed by Heather
October 2008
Rating: 10
http://www.eyeonromance.com
This story is beautifully written and packed with description and feeling. As I read, I wondered what image I could use to describe Ms Hill’s writing and I thought of chocolate. Those times when you sit and savor your favorite chocolate, when you nibble a square to keep it as long as possible, or you eat the whole square to savor the chocolate explosion in your mouth. It is an unforgettable experience. I understood, and felt, the innocence and strength in Anna, and the despair and anger in Jonah as characters, both, at times, felt so real. There is an undeniable chemistry and sensuality between these two characters. The reader can also feel that Jonah is better than most heroes at denying what he feels. This is one pairing that is meant to be. These characters come together at the end of the story in a scene that is dramatic, heartrending and heartfelt and shows what can only be a true, soul binding love.
The Romance Studio
Reviewed by Abi
September 2008
Rating: 5 hearts
http://theromancestudio.com
The sheer magnitude of magic of this story weaves a spell around the reader and draws them in. A beautifully written novel that's reminiscent of an adult fairytale, I found it extremely thought provoking. I found myself long after I'd finished reading, considering the similarities of our own real battles for freedom and peace. The eternal fight against light and dark, maintaining the balance. The author has you believing that all things are possible. The love scenes are provocative, erotic, and add warmth. These counteracted the emotional tear jerking scenes. Thrilling action, vividly depicted, holds the reader breathless and tense. An outstanding book, from an outstanding author. And I can't finish this review without a comment on the absolutely gorgeous cover art that's worthy of being framed and hung on my wall.
Coffee Time Romance
Reviewed by Lototy
October 2008
Rating: 4 Cups
http://coffeetimeromance.com
I cannot begin to tell you what a gem this story is. It will wring laughter and tears out of any reader. The innocence of Anna gives her character a treasured and heartwarming presence throughout the story. She is everything we should all aspire to be, completely selfless, and loving. Jonah is so battle weary and beaten, your heart breaks for him. So find yourself a comfy seat and a box of tissues. I guarantee you this story will sweep you along in the tides of emotion and adventure shared by Anna and Jonah.
Romance Junkies
Reviewed by Sarah W
October 2008
Rating: 4 and Blue Ribbon Review
http://romancejunkiesreviews.com
A MERMAID’S KISS is the kind of gripping story that comes along only once in a while. Joey W. Hill definitely takes paranormal romance to a new edge with her love story of a mermaid shape-shifter and an angel. Jonah is a warrior but he is tired, unsure if he is truly making a difference in the world. Anna has her own concerns, her own destiny to fight. Ms. Hill gives the Little Mermaid mythology a new twist in A MERMAID’S KISS. Anna is a strong character who is fighting for Jonah from the very moment he falls into the sea. She is unafraid to risk her life for him. Jonah has a lot of anger and sadness in him. He sees himself as death in many ways I think, and Anna becomes the key to reawakening his humanity, his soul, and his drive to eradicate evil. As with any Joey W. Hill story, the sensuality and passion pulsates off the pages. A MERMAID’S KISS is probably not for every romance reader, but if you want to take a chance on something new and different, you will be well satisfied with this story.
Bitten By Books
Reviewed by Lyda
October 2008
Rating: 4 1/2
http://bittenbybooks.com
Mermaid’s Kiss is truly awe-inspiring. Blood and sacrifice, love and faith, courage and hope. It is all in this story. The only complaint I could possibly have is that there was a lot of sex, which in reality is not a bad thing. The references to the realms of heaven and hell as well as the deities could have also been a bit more simplified for the reader, but on the other hand, when is it ever simple? This is still a wonderful read that simply will draw you into the pages that show a very human side to an ethereal being and an angelic quality from a mere mortal.
Joyfully Reviewed
Reviewed by Amelia
October 2008
Rating: 5 Stars
http://www.joyfullyreviewed.com
A Mermaid’s Kiss is a lush tale of the battle between good and evil. The differences between these two characters, Anna’s sweet innocence and her search for something meaningful in her life, and Jonah’s scarred view of the world are a perfect blend for a look at the mythical world created in this story. Ms. Hill does not pull any punches, as usual, and has produced a fascinating story set in a world of mermaids and angels that will mesmerize lovers of the paranormal. A Mermaid’s Kiss will capture your head, and keep you reading until the very last page.
Fresh Fiction
Reviewed by Mandy Burns
October 2008
http://freshfiction.com
A romantically sensuous love story between two unique characters…Joey W. Hill is one of my favorite authors. The creativity and depth of the characters she writes are phenomenal, whether it's vampires, mermaids or angels. Her books are always must-reads!
Red Roses for Authors Blogspot
Reviewed by Anne Herries
March 2010
Rating: 5 Stars
http://redrosesforauthors.blogspot.com
This is a wonderful story. It is also one that requires a box or two of Kleenex to be close by. This is one story that you can read over and over again and still get lost in the story. You will be taken on an emotional roller coaster but is worth reading until the very last page. You won’t want to put this story down until the very end.
