The youngest of six talented sisters, Elyse d’Abreau was destined for stardom—until a boating accident took everything from her. Now, the most beautiful singer in Tobago can’t sing. She can’t even speak.

Seeking quiet solitude, Elyse accepts a friend’s invitation to Atargatis Cove. Named for the mythical first mermaid, the Oregon seaside town is everything Elyse’s home in the Caribbean isn’t: An ocean too cold for swimming, parties too tame for singing, and people too polite to pry—except for one.

Christian Kane is a notorious playboy—insolent, arrogant, and completely charming. He’s also the only person in Atargatis Cove who doesn’t treat Elyse like a glass statue. He challenges her to express herself, and he admires the way she treats his younger brother Sebastian, who believes Elyse is the legendary mermaid come to life.

When Christian needs a first mate for the Cove’s high-stakes Pirate Regatta, Elyse reluctantly stows her fear of the sea and climbs aboard. The ocean isn’t the only thing making waves, though—swept up in Christian’s seductive tide and entranced by the Cove’s charms, Elyse begins to wonder if a life of solitude isn’t what she needs. But changing course again means facing her past. It means finding her inner voice. And scariest of all, it means opening her heart to a boy who’s best known for breaking them…

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Reviews

“A sweet summer romance, Sarah Ockler’s newest book sings with mermaid lore and characters you wish you could spend your summer with. This look at finding your voice is the perfect poolside read.” — Justine Magazine

“Elyse’s journey and struggles to assimilate her disability—portrayed with compassion and insight—are compelling and original. A beach read with depth that will keep readers engaged.” — Kirkus Reviews

“…another fantastic summer story by Twenty Boy Summer’s Sarah Ockler… Aside from having probably the best summer cover ever, The Summer of Chasing Mermaids will totally capture your summer spirit this June.”  — Bustle

“Ockler dives beneath the surface in writing about her characters’ emotions and family relationships, and writes sensuously about love and desire. This is a good choice for older teens looking for a well-written romance.” — VOYA Magazine

“Ockler’s poetic writing captivates from the outset (“My first breath outside my mother’s body was salt water; the Caribbean Sea lay claim to my soul the moment it took hers”), and Elyse’s backstory—including the mystery of exactly how she lost her voice—is inventive and well-drawn.” — Publishers Weekly

“Despite being unable to speak, Elyse’s lyrical and authentic voice shines through. Teens will relate to her struggle to find her place in a complicated world and applaud her efforts to fight back against the heartless powerbrokers threatening to destroy the Cove.” — School Library Journal