Fathomfolk by Eliza Chan

Book Description

Welcome to Tiankawi – shining pearl of human civilization and a safe haven for those fleeing civil unrest. Or at least, that’s how it first appears. But in the semi-flooded city, humans are, quite literally, on top: peering down from shining towers and aerial walkways on the fathomfolk – sirens, seawitches, kelpies and kappas – who live in the polluted waters below.

For half-siren Mira, promotion to captain of the border guard means an opportunity to help her downtrodden people. But if earning the trust and respect of her human colleagues wasn’t hard enough, everything Mira has worked towards is put in jeopardy when Nami, a know-it-all water dragon and fathomfolk princess – is exiled to the city, under Mira’s watch. When extremists sabotage a city festival, violence erupts, as does the clampdown on fathomfolk rights. Both Nami and Mira must decide if the cost of change is worth paying, or if Tiankawi should be left to drown.

Review

Have you ever picked up a book expecting one thing, only to have it completely surprise you? That was my experience with Fathomfolk by Eliza Chan. I went in thinking, “Cool, mermaids and magic!” And yes, I got that, but I also found a story packed with politics, social tension, and some serious commentary on immigration, class, and identity.

Fathomfolk takes place in Tiankawi, a city quite literally drowning in its own problems. It’s home to both humans and fathomfolk (magical sea creatures like sirens, water dragons, and sea witches), but their coexistence? Yeah… not exactly smooth sailing. We follow three characters: Mira, a half-siren captain, trying to keep the peace; Nami, a rebellious water dragon with a streak of entitlement; and Cordelia, a sea witch who thrives on cunning and ambition. Their stories weave together in a way that makes you question who the real monsters are—because it’s definitely not just the ones with scales.

Chan’s world-building is lush, layered, and full of East Asian mythology. You can practically feel the grime in the lower parts of the city and the weight of social inequality pressing down on everyone.

But, unlike The Fox Wife, Chan could have set this world anywhere. Yes, it includes many elements readers might expect from an Asian fantasy novel, but the conflicts between the magical and non magical folks are universal. This book would have worked if set in a fictionalized New York, Seattle, or San Francisco too. Basically, any maritime urban environment.

If you love fantasy that has something to say, Fathomfolk is worth the read. Plus, who doesn’t love a story where mermaids might actually mess you up?

Content Warning

Addiction, Blackmail, Blood, Corruption, Death, Fire, Injury, Kidnapping, Murder, Panic Attacks, Police Brutality, Racism, Violence, Xenophobia

The header photo is a composite image. Base image by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash