Reviews

The Mermaid and Mrs. Hancock by Imogen Hermes Gowar

meimi's review against another edition

⭐️ 2.5

The writing is quite beautiful but unfortunately I just found myself bored.

northernfleabag's review against another edition

dark emotional funny sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

simplyamysue's review

emotional mysterious sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25

sputniknorman's review

reflective slow-paced

2.0

kristenmneal's review against another edition

Boring

derunkle2's review

dark mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

seymone's review against another edition

4.0

A whimsical story with hints of magical realism. It was an enjoyable read.

3.5 stars

hannahwillmehr's review against another edition

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted mysterious reflective slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

jckrbbt's review against another edition

dark slow-paced

2.0

chester_jeebs's review against another edition

4.0

A slow start, definitely missold by the style of the cover and blurb. It took me 100-200 pages to really 'get with the programme' and get into enjoying the rhythm of this historical/social exploration of a novel. It tackles themes of freedom and money (and prostitution features heavily within this) with likeable and interesting characters, but those expecting a more supernatural novel will find a distinct lack of mermaid, which acts as more of a plot device than a creature in its own right. Rather than embracing its MacGuffin*, it does try to give the mermaid a point of view in little interludes throughout the book, which I consider a misstep but not a damning one. It's not a light speedy read, taking effort and attention to get through, and I think this only adds to the potential disappointment of those going in expecting 'mermaid drama!'.

However, I don't regret reading this and ultimately feel happy to keep it on my shelf. Those interested in the themes and setting provided will likely find themselves rewarded.

(*The MacGuffin's importance to the plot is not the object itself, but rather its effect on the characters and their motivations. (wikipedia))