What fun to travel back to Cornwall in Deborah M. Hathaway’s newest book, In the Waves of Tristwick! Her books just keep getting better and better. The mermaid theme was fresh and creative, and the story gave insight into the prevailing thoughts and customs of 1815 Cornwall. The characters were colorful, layered, and intriguing. Trevik Honeysett is an industrious, considerate, likeable hero who seems to carry the weight of the entire fishing community on his shoulders. The heroine, Morvoren Hollow, is spunky, courageous, and longing for a different life away from her controlling uncle. What she finds is a warm, mostly welcoming, stay with the Honeysett family. The chemistry between Trevik and Morvoren was perfect as they slowly got to know each other and their relationship and perceptions changed and grew.

Filled with adventure, intrigue, romance, and wonderful historical detail, this story is a fantastic journey back in time to a small Cornish fishing village you won’t soon forget. It’s a delightful read for those who enjoy visiting other countries through historical fiction. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own. ( )

“She blew out a breath. What was the world coming to, now that she, Morvoren Hollow, admired a fisherman?” I absolutely loved this fourth book in Deborah M. Hathaway’s Cornish Romance series. Morvoren, the sassy spirited heroine and Trevik, the handsome flirtatious fisherman completely drew me into the story. I loved the witty dialogue, enemies to lovers slow-burn romance, and the twists and turns in this original story.

The last thing Morvoren wants is life with a fisherman. Running away from a cruel uncle and untenable marriage proposal, she decides to indulge in something her uncle has forbidden, a swim in the ocean. She has no idea her indulgence will land her in a fisherman’s net.

When Trevik and his fellow drifters pull in their net, the last thing they expect is a “mermaid” known to bring havoc and destruction. So when Morvoren is found caught in Trevik’s net, rumors quickly fly and to one superstitious older man, Edern, she’s a menace that needs to go. Trevik may have saved Morvoren’s life, but there’s hardly gratitude expressed. In fact, her sharp tongue at once intrigues but also infuriates him. With nowhere else to go and an injured ankle, Morvoren must find a way to endure until she can travel to her friend’s house. What she doesn’t expect is to find friendship, romance, and feeling part of a family again.

I loved the characters, not only Trevik and Morvoren, but his mother and sister Poppy too. Also enjoyed Trevik’s fellow fishermen, even the irascible Edern, and fell in love with this endearing fishing village where they all look out for each other and work together to survive.

There were so many swoonworthy scenes. I especially loved it when Morvoren accuses Trevik of not knowing how to flirt and boy does he show her he does. The romantic tension between the two is palpable and I loved the humorous good natured teasing moments between the two.

The Cornish setting is amazing and Ms. Hathaway really makes it come alive with her beautiful descriptions. I felt like I could hear the waves crashing on the shore and smell the salty sea air. I enjoyed the historical aspects of the novel and the careful detail the author includes in the story.

Highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the other books in the series. This book can definitely be read as a standalone, though may be more enjoyable for those familiar with previous characters who show up in the book. I can’t wait to read Poppy’s story and look forward to the next book in the series. Thank you to Deborah M. Hathaway for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review. ( )