Khaw, Cassandra - The Salt Grows Heavy

Embark on a dark and twisted journey into the depths of myth and madness with Cassandra Khaw's captivating novella, "The Salt Grows Heavy," where a mermaid and her plague-doctor companion navigate a world of secrets, horror, and the transformative power of grief.

Synopsis:

Fleeing the downfall of an empire, a mermaid named Lira finds herself washed ashore in a forgotten village plagued by a mysterious illness. Seeking refuge and answers, she crosses paths with a peculiar plague doctor named Silas, an enigmatic figure haunted by his own demons.

A Tale of Transformation, Grief, and the Unseen

As Lira and Silas delve deeper into the village's secrets, they uncover a web of interconnected myths and legends, where mermaids, plague doctors, and the spirits of the dead intertwine. Their journey takes them through the chilling waters of the bay, the labyrinthine streets of the village, and the depths of their own hearts as they confront their personal traumas and the transformative power of grief.

A Captivating Blend of Dark Fantasy and Gothic Horror

Cassandra Khaw masterfully weaves together elements of dark fantasy, gothic horror, and folklore in "The Salt Grows Heavy." The novel explores the depths of human emotion, the haunting beauty of the natural world, and the transformative power of grief. The vivid descriptions of the mermaid's underwater world, the eerie atmosphere of the plague doctor's existence, and the chilling secrets lurking beneath the surface will keep readers captivated until the very end.

Exploring Themes of Loss, Transformation, and the Power of Myth

"The Salt Grows Heavy" delves into profound themes of loss, transformation, and the power of myth. Lira's journey is one of confronting the loss of her home, her people, and her own humanity as she grapples with the complexities of her identity and the transformative power of grief. The novel also explores the power of myth and storytelling in shaping our understanding of the world and the transformative power of embracing our true selves.

A Must-Read for Fans of Dark Fantasy, Gothic Horror, and Stories about Transformation

With its captivating characters, suspenseful plot, and exploration of timeless themes, "The Salt Grows Heavy" is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy, gothic horror, and stories that delve into the complexities of human emotion and the transformative power of grief. Cassandra Khaw's novella is a poignant reminder of the enduring strength of the human spirit and the courage to confront our fears, even when they come from the depths of our own darkness.

Additional Description Points:

• The novel is a unique blend of dark fantasy, gothic horror, and mermaid mythology that will appeal to a wide range of readers.

• "The Salt Grows Heavy" is not just a story about mermaids and plague doctors; it is also a meditation on grief, loss, and the transformative power of myth.

• The novella is a must-read for fans of Cassandra Khaw and anyone seeking a dark, atmospheric, and thought-provoking read.

Awards and Recognition:

• Featured in The Guardian's "Best New Books of 2023"

• Nominee for the British Fantasy Society Awards for Best Novella

Title: The Salt Grows Heavy

Author: Cassandra Khaw

Publisher: Tor Books

Release Date: November 2024

Genre: Fantasy, Horror, Dark Fantasy

Number of Pages: 128

Dimensions: 168 x 243 x 19 mm

Weight: 200 g

Relevant Tags: Horror, Dark Fantasy, Mermaids, Gothic Fiction, Novella