Waterfell (The Aquarathi)
Nerissa has been sequestered among humans, protected by her handlers, Echlios and Soren, and their teenage son, Speio. The evil Ehmora has disposed of both the king and queen of Waterfell, Nerissa’s parents, and is ruling the underwater kingdom by default. Once Nerissa comes of age, she is obligated to return to Waterfell to challenge Ehmora to the death. If she wins, she will become queen of the Aquarathi people, never to revisit her human form. Nerissa, however, is loath to return. She’s happily ensconced in high-school life with best friend, Jenna; a spot on the championship field hockey team; and a strange but exciting relationship with new guy Lo Seavon. Yet Ehmora draws menacingly closer, causing Nerissa to wonder just whom she can trust. Howard has crafted a page-turning blend of magical realism and fantasy, set in an American high school starring a main character who morphs from sea monster to gorgeous sixteen-year-old with ease. Plot shifts, surprises, and a love affair not yet fully realized sets readers up for the second in the trilogy. Grades 9-12. --Frances Bradburn