When We Believed in Mermaids

Like O'Neal's previous release, [b:The Art of Inheriting Secrets 38093951 The Art of Inheriting Secrets Barbara O'Neal https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1526017073l/38093951.SX50.jpg 59764662], this book is stuffed with a little too much plot in its attempt to be both Women's Fiction and Romance Novel. It's not enough to have a woman searching for the sister she long believed was dead; she also has to fall in love with a handsome Spanish musician along the way. And the sister (not a spoiler, she narrates the second chapter) not only has a troubled past that led to her disappearance, she also just purchased her dream house that was previously inhabited by a movie star whose murder was never solved. Plus there are lots of flashback scenes to the sisters' unconventional, often traumatic childhood. That's a lot to fully cover in 350 pages, and something has to suffer. Unfortunately what suffers most is the sisters' reunion, which feels rushed and unresolved. Also Josie/Mari barely has a chance to reflect on the relationship with her alcoholic mother, who neglected their well-being for years but is now sober and trying to make amends.But still, this is Barbara O'Neal, and she is a talented writer and storyteller. The sisters' characters are fully developed and the dynamic between them feels very real. The flashbacks especially are powerful, and the relationship they had with a young man who was part of their family for many years is complex and tragic. Their shared love of surfing comes through clearly, and I could strongly relate to their need to always be able to see and hear the ocean. It's really a lovely book, but I wish O'Neal had let the characters and plot breathe a little bit. However, at the current price point ($3.99, and available through Kindle Unlimited) I strongly recommend it.