What’s New in the Merworld?

When I launched my debut novel, Ice Floe, the idea of writing a completed story was both exciting and daunting. I daydreamed about characters, reworked and cut chapters, and partnered with professional editors and artists. All my hard work paid off when I finally held the printed book in my hands.

Fast forward a few years, and I’m ready to share my second novel with the world. Thin Ice represents my new vision for the Merworld. In this Merworld you’ll dive into improved world-building. You’ll be sucked into adventure, romance, and mystery. Best of all, you’ll meet half a dozen new characters. From quirky humans to mermaids with aquatic powers to Mesos ready to kick tail, you’re sure to find someone to root for!

My writing has come a long way both in style and direction. I am happy to share this new vision for the Merworld and can’t wait for you to explore Thin Ice.

For those interested in the details, here’s a snapshot of what to expect whether you read my first novel or not.

What’s staying the same?

• Glacia Andraste returns! The leading mermaid heroine from Ice Floe remains front and center in my new novel. Thin Ice is the second story in Glacia’s chronological timeline, told from her perspective. She is big-hearted, brave, and loveable, with the same dash of anti-heroine qualities that make her tick.
• Tucker Denet is still heartthrob-y. Of course, Tucker’s a main character in Thin Ice. You didn’t think I’d let you down there, did you? In Thin Ice, Glacia and Tucker get a chance to grow their love. Whether they can make it work in a world trying to pull them apart? You have to read the book.
• Ice Floe’s backstory. The juicy, gritty backstory of Glacia and her supporting cast remains intact for Thin Ice. The good news is, if it’s been a while since you’ve read Ice Floe, you can jump into Thin Ice without a problem. No need for a re-read. All the relevant plot points from Ice Floe are built in as reminders throughout the book. If you haven’t read Ice Floe, see your options in the paragraph below.

What’s new?

• A fresh cast of fantastic characters. Fan favorites, Glacia and Tucker, take a spotlight in Thin Ice. At the same time, you will be introduced to a new crew of maddening and loveable personalities. Based on preliminary reader feedback, these characters were worth the wait between novels.
• Mermaid powers! Yup, you read that right. I’ve upgraded our mermaid friends to mimic real life aquatic skills…with a little artistic flair, no doubt. You may know that Earth’s fish and sea creatures have bizarre and impressive defense and offense abilities like venom, camouflage, etc. After continuing to research all the wacky traits in our big blue planet, I had to incorporate these tail-kicking powers into the Merworld.
• Improved worldbuilding. To include a mermaid herb potion that allows humans to function and breathe underwater. Fun details for questions like – do mermaids drink underwater? And other such algae-coated delights.
• Mature readers alert. I adore my new characters so much I’ve decided to adjust the series to the adult fantasy genre (rather than young adult) with a potential for spinoffs. As a result, Thin Ice has a few more chili peppers added for our adult romance fans. The novel also has mature language and plotlines. Consider yourself warned and adjust according to your reading preferences. P.S. Glacia and Tucker’s age and corresponding details have been updated for them to be 20-something to better fit the future vision.

How does this affect me?

• If you’ve already read Ice Floe:
  • Not to worry. You will jump into Thin Ice without trouble. All you have to do is grant me a little forgiveness and leeway with some of the previous details you may remember.
• If you haven’t read Ice Floe, you have two options:
  • Option one – jump into Thin Ice without reading Ice Floe (Glacia and Tucker’s initial romance) first. You will enter the Merworld seamlessly without any previous knowledge of characters or backstory required. WARNING: The first page and chapter of Thin Ice has a massive SPOILER for Ice Floe. If you would like to avoid said SPOILER, see option two.
  • Option two – give me a little time and I’ll have Ice Floe updated to match the new vision. Once Ice Floe edition 2 is out…there’s no stopping you from binging both novels in a row.

A big THANK YOU to my friends, family, and professional partners who have helped me navigate the very difficult question of…what comes next after my first novel? Without your support and guidance, I wouldn’t have the courage to keep learning and growing. Hugs to all of you.

Until next time.

~Emme