The Mermaid of Black Conch

Escape to the ocean with the entrancing, unforgettable winner of the Costa Book of the Year - as read on BBC Radio 4. 'Mesmerising' MAGGIE O'FARRELL 'A unique talent' BERNARDINE EVARISTO'Wonderful' BRIDGET COLLINS'Brilliant' CLARE CHAMBERSNear the island of Black Conch, a fisherman sings to himself while waiting for a catch. But David attracts a sea-dweller that he never expected - Aycayia, an innocent young woman cursed by jealous wives to live as a mermaid.

When American tourists capture Aycayia, David rescues her and vows to win her trust. Slowly, painfully, she transforms into a woman again. Yet as their love grows, they discover that the world around them is changing - and they cannot escape the curse for ever .

. . 'A bittersweet love story .

. . A joy to read' BBC News'A fiercely modern mermaid story' The Times'Wondrous .

. . A striking achievement' Sunday Times'Not your standard mermaid' MARGARET ATWOOD

'Exquisite' ELIZABETH MACNEAL