Gillian's Book Review: Selena Flowers and the Phantom Tides, the latest YA/children's fiction book, by Ella English
- gillianyoung
- Apr 1
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 2
Today's review is Selena Flowers and the Phantom Tides, the second in the Merblood Saga by Ella English. This is a YA/children's middle-grade fiction series, and to be honest, the sound of a story about zombie mermaids interested me. I've read stories that feature mermaids, but zombie mermaids? Never. This was something different, which drew me to this book. This is also the first book of Ella's that I've read, and I always love discovering new authors! So, please read on to discover more about Ella English, her latest book, Selena Flowers and the Phantom Tides, followed by my honest review.
Author Bio
Ella English is the delightfully witty British author and illustrator who hopped across the pond from London to Baltimore, where she now conjures up charming children's books full of imagination and mirth.
Ella left behind the whimsy of England for a taste of American adventure. Trading afternoon tea for latte to go, this clever Brit began dreaming up tales brimming with talking animals, magical mishaps, and daring kids on epic quests.
With a sprinkle of humour and lots of heart, Ella's stories enchant young readers looking for a fun escape. Her plucky heroines, daring heroes, and lovable creatures lead the way through hilarious hijinks and thrilling exploits.
When she's not busy spinning yarns or bringing characters to life with colourful illustrations, you can find Ella strolling Baltimore's Inner Harbour in search of inspiration. She soaks up the sights and sounds of this captivating city by the sea, always on the lookout for magical new story ideas.
So if you're looking for entertaining, imagination-sparking children's books, check out the latest delightful world from Ella English. This whimsical Brit is charming young readers in America one delightfully fun tale at a time.
Book Blurb
Something strange is going down in the sleepy seaside village of Madderly Bay. Best friends Selena and Chloe are stuck in the most boring summer ever—until food starts coming to life and running wild in the streets.
But that’s just the beginning. Earthquakes start shaking the village, and creepy claw marks show up, hinting at something dark stirring beneath the waves. Only Selena and Chloe know the real story about the zombie mermaids they faced before—and now they’re worried the threat they thought was gone might be back.
As the tremors get worse and the water turns a scary green, the girls have to figure out what’s awakening in the depths before it’s too late. With their friend Zelda and her magical squid, Glowella, by their side, they’ll risk everything to save both the human and magical worlds from a danger that could destroy them all.
In this thrilling adventure, Selena and her friends have to face their fears and dig up some serious secrets between the human and magical worlds. With their village and the ocean in danger, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Can they figure out what’s messing with the sea before it’s too late? Or will they realize that saving their town—and both worlds—might be way harder than they thought?
My Review
Selena Flowers and the Phantom Tides follows on from book 1 in the Merblood saga: Selena Flowers and the Cursed Ruby. Having not read the first in the series, I wondered whether I’d struggle to get into the story. However, yes, it’s a sequel, but it’s also a standalone. I easily followed the story and learned who the characters were and their history. Now, having read Selena Flowers and the Phantom Tides, I want to go back and read the first in this thrilling new series.
The story follows Selena Flowers and her friends Chloe and Zelda. They live in a small coastal town called Madderly Bay where nothing much happens – until now…
Enter Faustina, the queen of the merkingdom. This kingdom resides underwater and is home to a community of zombie-mermaids. Even though only 12 years old, Faustina is a force to be reckoned with. The zombie queen is joined by her minions, Bubblya (a bloated zombie mermaid), Necrilla (a muscular, vain zombie mermaid with lustrous locks), Slima (and yes, she oozes yellow slime 🤢) and Palisada (whose translucent body reveals her pulsating organs). Merkingdom is home to the Undead Academy – the school for all zombie mermaids. Here, the reader meets the headteacher, Mr Bottomley and Aunt Ada. Personally, Aunt Ada has to be my favourite character, everyone’s favourite teacher. Keeping her undead impulses in check, she peppers the story with her witty puns. She can also communicate with Selena telepathically. She is a character who possesses mind-blowing magic.
When strange things start to happen in Madderly Bay, such as food coming to life (skipping scones and a grinning donut wearing a top hat), Selena and her friends know something is amiss. Then, Selena gets a call from Aunt Ada. Trouble is brewing, and it stems from the Merkingdom. Ancient magic, sea-witches, monsters and curses target not only the survival of the merkingdom but also Madderly Bay. Selena, Chloe and Zelda need to break a curse and face the biggest fight of their lives. This particular quote, taken from the book, encapsulates the task ahead for Selena, Chloe and Zelda:
“How could the universe have the audacity to look this peaceful when their to-do list included overthrowing an ancient sea witch?”
This story is teeming with adventure, mystery, and so many characters that are all entertaining in their own way. It’s a book that will leave the reader wanting more, and I’m glad to say that Ella English is doing just that. The third in the MerBlood series will be released soon.
Thank you, Ella English, for inviting me to review Selena Flowers and the Phantom Tides. It was a thrilling read which took me on an amazing underwater adventure. Perfect for both 8-12-year-olds and teens, and even those like me, who are over the 50-mark and love a good adventure oozing with mythical creatures and magic!
What's Next ...
My next read is a children's picture book entitled More Fun with Bob the Bear, by Alice Chambers. Join me next time for my honest review. Until then, here's a taster of what Bob the Bear's latest adventure is about.
Bob the Bear has a fantastic day playing hide and seek with some farm animals and has a ride on a pony. Come and join Bob the Bear on his farm adventure. He is sure to bring a smile and a giggle for both little ones and big ones on his fun day out.
Until next time,
Happy Reading!
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