Title: The Changeling Sea
Author: Patricia A. McKillip
First published October 1, 1988
137 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780141312620 (ISBN10: 0141312629)
Rating: 4.08
Overview
Ever since Peri’s father disappeared at sea, her mother has been consumed by grief. Peri tries to cope with her own anger and sadness by using her small magical abilities to cast spells on the sea.
Unexpectedly, her hexes attract the attention of the King’s sons, who are changelings with mysterious connections to the underwater world. As Peri becomes entangled in their magical realm, she also finds herself falling in love with a young magician.
But will her newfound happiness be enough to overcome the tragedy of her past?
About the Author
Patricia Anne McKillip, a renowned American author, is recognized for her exceptional works of fantasy and science fiction novels. Her writing style is distinguished by its lyrical and delicate prose, and her careful attention to detail and characterization.
She has been honored with numerous awards including the World Fantasy Award and Locus Award. Currently residing in Oregon, McKillip’s recent novels are adorned with cover paintings by Kinuko Y.
Craft. She is happily married to David Lunde, a poet.
As per a report by Fantasy Book Review, Patricia McKillip spent her childhood in Oregon, England, and Germany. She earned her Bachelor of Arts (English) degree in 1971 and went on to complete her Master of Arts in 1973 from San Jose State University.
The stories written by McKillip are typically set in a medieval-like period, with castles, forests, lords or kings, minstrels, tinkers, and wizards. Her writing often places her characters in situations involving mysterious powers which they do not understand.
Many of her characters are unaware of their own ancestry. Music plays a crucial role in her stories, and love between family members is also an important theme, even though members of her families often disagree.
Editoral Review
In “The Changeling Sea,” award-winning author Patricia A. McKillip delivers a magical tale that captivates readers with its lyrical prose and vivid imagery.
First published in 1988, this novel remains a beloved work of fantasy literature that appeals to readers of all ages. The story follows the young girl Peri, who lives in a seaside village and is known as a witch’s daughter.
When a prince comes to town seeking help to break a terrible curse, Peri becomes embroiled in his quest and sets out on a journey that will change her life forever. Along the way, she encounters a cast of wonderfully imagined characters, including sea creatures and personified elements of nature.
McKillip masterfully weaves a tale of love, loss, and redemption that is both haunting and uplifting. Through Peri’s journey, she delves into themes of identity, acceptance, and the power of nature.
The author’s descriptive language transports the reader into the fantastical world she has created, immersing them in the briny depths of the sea and the rugged coastline of the village. At its core, “The Changeling Sea” tells a story about the importance of love and forgiveness, and how these virtues can heal even the deepest wounds.
The characters are beautifully drawn, each with their own unique flaws and strengths that make them a joy to follow throughout the narrative. Perhaps the only weakness of this novel is its pacing, which can be slow in some places.
However, this leisurely pace also allows the reader to fully savor McKillip’s vivid prose and detailed world-building, making it easy to forgive the occasional lulls. Overall, “The Changeling Sea” is a remarkable work of fantasy, one that showcases the author’s talent for creating fully-realized worlds and deeply-drawn characters.
Highly recommended for anyone who loves lyrical prose, enchanting tales, and stories that touch the heart. Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars.
