Captivating . . . With a plot rich in description, written in a straightforward style that reflects the no-nonsense attitude of its heroine, this is an inspiring read. * The Lady *
An original and uplifting novel that beautifully captures a young woman's determination to succeed. * S D Sykes, author of Plague Land *
Rebecca Mascull's second novel continues to showcase her talent for writing intelligent, impeccably researched, absorbing historical fiction. Dawnay Price - foundling, scientist, feminist - is a wondrous character and I was on the edge of my seat following her fortunes. * Louise Walters, author of MRS SINCLAIR'S SUITCASE *
I adored this book. Dawnay Price is possibly one of my favourite characters I've ever read and I loved seeing her journey from ignorant (in the sweetest way possible) orphan girl to woman of science. Her story isn't always a happy one, but that's what makes it such a believable tale . . . I would recommend it to anyone looking for an amazing female character, loves stories set in the depths of nature, or suffers from a bit of wunderlust. You can almost feel the sun shining through the pages. Five stars from me! * Pixiecrop.com *
It felt as if I was reading a work by a modern and accessible Dickens.Song of the Sea Maid is a highly intelligent novel - a feminist text, a scientific text, a philosophical text, a love story and an historical novel. However, above all else it is a fabulous blend of all these genres into a wonderful and hugely satisfying read. Song of the Sea Maid enriches the reader's life. * Linda's Book Bag *
This is a beautifully written story, it speaks profoundly, and I know that I am going to go on thinking about it for a very long time . . . I was utterly captivated by Dawany, by her story, by her experiences. She was - they were - so utterly real, and I was infected by her life and her spirit . . . I loved the heart and soul of this book. * Fleur in Her World *
From the heartbreaking days in the orphanage to the series of events which sees her boarding a ship to Portugal, I was with Dawnay all the way . . . The clever weaving of real life historical events, such as the Lisbon earthquake really added to the overall atmosphere and time of the novel.
Quite a discovery!
* The Book Trail *
This book is beautifully written. The words are lyrical and the plot is compelling . . . Dawnay, herself, is a brilliant lead. You can't help but love her from the moment she is introduced. * Lost in a Daydream *
Terrific. A vindication of the pleasures of reading . . . a book which draws the reader in, deceptively making it an easy, page turning journey, and then pounces on the complacent, relaxed reader and swallows them up! * Lady Fancifull *
Song of the Sea Maid is a beautiful book, with a heroine that I now definitely have a bit of a girly crush on. A must read! * The Welsh Librarian *
Just like The Visitors, this novel is beautifully written. The descriptions of some of the places she experiences and the creatures she encounters are wonderful and often full of colour. * Typewritered *
Firmly rooted in history, but not at all dense, this is an absorbing read. . . I can wholeheartedly recommend this book. * In the Nick of Time *
This novel takes the reader into unfamiliar worlds - mid-18th century London, Lisbon, Minorca, but also the worlds of natural science and maritime warfare . . . I revelled in the well written prose and the upbeat, energetic movement of the narrative. * We Love This Book *
From the opening chapter I was totally captivated and felt completely at ease in the company of a fine array of characters and by the storytelling skill of an author who clearly knows how to hold a reader in the palm of her hand. * Jaffa Reads Too *
Rebecca Mascull's writing is brilliantly clever and completely engaging. Her compelling storytelling is fabulous . . . I loved this memorable story and Dawnay Price was a fantastic and endearing character. * David at OMG that Book Review, GoodReads *
This book makes my heart sing. * Readingwritingandriesling.wordpress.com *