Mermaids have long fascinated readers with their allure, mystery, and danger. Whether depicted as enchanting sirens, noble ocean warriors, or cursed beings yearning for freedom, mermaids add a unique and magical depth to fantasy literature. If you’re looking for adult fantasy books featuring mermaids, including those with romance and darker themes, here are some of the best books to dive into.
The Deep by Rivers Solomon
This hauntingly beautiful novel is inspired by the song “The Deep” by Clipping, which itself was influenced by the work of Drexciya, an Afrofuturist techno duo. The story follows Yetu, a mermaid-like being from a race descended from the unborn children of pregnant African women thrown overboard during the transatlantic slave trade. These beings, known as the wajinru, have a rich but painful history that only the Historian, Yetu, is burdened with remembering. As Yetu struggles with the overwhelming weight of the past, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and freedom.
A deeply emotional and thought-provoking read, The Deep explores identity, memory, trauma, and the power of storytelling.
Into the Drowning Deep by Mira Grant
If you love your mermaid stories dark, suspenseful, and filled with horror, this book is a must-read. Into the Drowning Deep is a gripping science-fiction horror novel that follows a scientific expedition searching for evidence of real mermaids in the Mariana Trench. But the mermaids they find are nothing like the beautiful, whimsical creatures of fairytales—they are monstrous, terrifying predators.
With a strong cast of characters, scientific intrigue, and intense action, this book is perfect for those who enjoy thrilling, horror-infused fantasy featuring mermaids.
To Kill a Kingdom by Alexandra Christo
This dark fantasy romance is a perfect choice for those who love morally complex characters and deadly sirens. To Kill a Kingdom follows Lira, a ruthless siren princess known as the Prince’s Bane for hunting and killing human royalty. But after angering her mother, the Sea Queen, she is cursed to live as a human. If she wants to return to the sea, she must bring back the heart of Prince Elian, a human pirate who also happens to be a siren hunter.
This novel is filled with action, witty banter, and slow-burn romance. If you’re looking for a book that blends enemies-to-lovers romance with high-stakes adventure, this is a great pick.
The Mermaid by Christina Henry
Christina Henry is known for her dark and twisted retellings, and The Mermaid is no exception. This historical fantasy reimagines the story of P.T. Barnum’s mermaid hoax with a fascinating twist. Amelia, a real mermaid, leaves the ocean to live among humans and eventually becomes part of Barnum’s traveling show. However, as she navigates human greed and cruelty, she must fight for her freedom.
This novel is more atmospheric and literary, focusing on themes of captivity, exploitation, and self-empowerment. Perfect for fans of character-driven fantasy with a touch of magical realism.
Skin of the Sea by Natasha Bowen
Inspired by West African mythology, Skin of the Sea follows Simidele, a mermaid-like being called a Mami Wata. She is tasked with guiding the souls of those who die at sea to the afterlife. But when she saves a drowning boy—breaking the sacred laws of the gods—she sets off on a journey that could change everything.
With rich worldbuilding, mythology, and a slow-burn romance, this novel offers a fresh take on mermaids in fantasy literature, blending history with magic.
A Song Below Water by Bethany C. Morrow
Set in a modern world where sirens are feared and discriminated against, A Song Below Water follows Tavia, a Black siren who must hide her abilities to avoid persecution. Alongside her best friend Effie, she navigates a world that sees her existence as a threat while also dealing with secrets and magic in their hometown.
This novel blends urban fantasy, social commentary, and siren mythology, making it a compelling and unique mermaid story unlike most traditional fantasy tales.
The Surface Breaks by Louise O’Neill
A feminist retelling of The Little Mermaid, The Surface Breaks follows Gaia, a mermaid princess who dreams of escaping her oppressive underwater world. But when she makes a bargain to live on land, she soon realizes that life as a human isn’t as idyllic as she imagined.
Dark, lyrical, and poignant, this novel is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy deep character exploration and feminist themes in fantasy.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for dark and deadly sirens, romantic mermaid adventures, or horror-infused deep-sea thrillers, there’s a mermaid fantasy novel for every reader. From To Kill a Kingdom’s enemies-to-lovers romance to Into the Drowning Deep’s terrifying deep-sea creatures, these books showcase the vast possibilities of mermaids in fantasy literature.
Are there any mermaid fantasy books you love that we missed? Let us know your favorites!