Morgan Reilly is the author of The Dark Library Series, a seven-book YA dark fantasy retelling of fairy tales.
In The Book of Water, the first book in The Dark Library series, mermaid Celine and human Owen form an unlikely alliance in the midst of a war between their peoples. But as they grow closer, they must navigate the treacherous waters of love and betrayal. In this dark fantasy retelling of The Little Mermaid, Celine and Owen will risk everything to seek their revenge-but their hearts may be the price they pay.
This story is described as, “The Little Mermaid + To Kill A Kingdom with Count of Monte Cristo vibes.”
Q: What/who were your early literary influences, and how do you think their writing has shaped you as a storyteller today?
A: I love this question! I grew up loving mysteries and fantasies, essentially cutting my teeth on Nancy Drew and books about magic. I also adored the Baby Sitters Club (the Scholastic Book Fair was my favorite time of year). That’s when I started to write my own stories, centering around characters and the events that shaped them. I’ve loved character-driven stories ever since I could read, so those are the types of stories I love to tell.
Write on the World 