An unforgettable first novel by 28 year old Lisa Carey, this book explores the love experiences of a grandmother and daughter torn between the Irish "island  of the mermaids", and life in America.   Grace, the mother, is dying of cancer in America. Grainne her daughter returns to Ireland with her Grandmother Cliona, and eventually meets the father she has never known.   Each chapter is related by one of the women, and relationships between mother and daughter are a main theme.   The sorrow of loss and depths of love relationships are bound together with the imagery of the sea, the legends of the mermaid and the pirate sea queen.   This novel is sensual and poetic, harsh and emotional, sad yet full of opportunity.

This novel could be compared with 'The Joy Luck Club' by Amy Tan - similar theme, different culture.