16 Mermaid Books For Adults That Will Steal Your Heart
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Looking for clean mermaid books for adults? You’re in the right place!
Who says mermaid tales are just for kids and teens? Mythical sea creatures have long captivated readers of all ages, and the world of adult fantasy is overflowing with enchanting, clean mermaid books that will sweep you into the depths of adventure, without any awkward blushing in public.
Maybe you’ve already enjoyed the Daughters of the Sea series with your kids, or perhaps you’re just diving into mermaid fiction and want stories with magic, mystery, and romance—without the steam. Either way, I’ve spent years scouring Goodreads and reading novels to find books that are as refreshing as an ocean breeze.
Scroll down to find the best mermaid fantasy books, perfectly magical and completely clean!
Top 3 favorite books about mermaids for adults
Deep Blue by Jennifer Donnelly
✅ 4 book series that has strong female characters, friendships, and sweet romance
Breakwater by Catherine Jones Payne
✅ Amazing worldbuilding and interesting mer politics
Skin of the Sea by Natasha Bowen
✅ Must read that mixes African mythology and a fast plot
Best mermaid fantasy books
1. Fatham by L.L. Standage
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.47 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Paranormal Romance, Mystery | 💝 On Kindle Unlimited | ✅ Read it!
Eighteen-year-old Olivia dreams of winning a marine biology scholarship but gets caught up in a whirlwind when she poses as a mermaid for a friend. Unexpectedly, she becomes entangled in a plot involving a glowing clam, a failing theme park, and the mysterious merpeople.
To protect secrets and survive, Olivia must navigate treacherous waters with newfound allies.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
I totally fell for the storyline and characters in this book! Such a great mix of friendship and mystery that’ll grab you into the story.
2. A Kingdom Submerged by Deborah Grace White
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.27 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: YA Fantasy Romance | 💝 On Kindle Unlimited | ✅ Read it!
Merletta, a determined orphan, sets her sights on becoming a Record Holder despite facing universal disdain. Meanwhile, Lord Heath of the House of Dragonfriend works to ease tensions among power-wielders and royal cousins.
Their paths converge on the forgotten island of Vazula, presenting unexpected trials as they confront threats from both land and sea.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
I’m a huge fan of all the books Deborah Grace White writes, and this one is no exception! The worldbuilding totally sucks you in with a mix of humans, mermaids, and dragons.
And let me tell you, the slow burn romance in this 4 book series is just pure perfection. Be warned, you’ll lose track of time reading this one!
3. The Heart of the Sea by Chesney Infalt
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.34 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: YA Fantasy Romance | 💝 On Kindle Unlimited | ✅ Read it!
Childhood friends, Prince Caspian and Princess Sabine, share a long-standing love story. A tragic event separates the most powerful Kingdom the Above and Below, creating an unbridgeable gap between their worlds.
Years later, a mysterious force stirs in the deep waters. To protect Sabine, Caspian strikes a risky deal with a sea witch. Unbeknownst to them, an ancient curse tests not just their lives but their bond.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
The romance in this book was super swoony and sweet! The plot was expertly woven together, told across two timelines – the present and five years ago when Caspian and Sabine were young.
It was so immersive to read! And let’s not forget, the characters are just absolutely amazing!
4. Tears of the Sea by MaryLu Tyndall
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.05 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
Perdita, under a curse to become a mermaid cast by the warlock Forwin, is on the quest for a man willing to die for her to break the spell. Savion, cautious of charming ladies because of past betrayals, crosses paths with Perdita on a stormy night.
Despite his reservations, Perdita falls for him, leading to a dilemma as her time in human form is running out – save Savion and stay cursed or break the curse at the expense of his life.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
This isn’t your typical fairy tale romance! The characters in this book are seriously captivating! They’re so well-crafted with compelling arcs that unfold beautifully in the story.
The romance is heartwarming, and the vivid descriptions of the world just pull you right in.
5. Cry of the Sea by D.G. Driver
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.14 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: YA Paranormal Romance | ✅ Read it!
Juniper Sawfeather finds herself at a crossroads when it comes to college after high school. Wanting to break free from her activist parents, she stumbles upon a game-changing discovery at the beach – three mysterious creatures that are mermaids.
An intriguing story of secrets, plots, and a fight for the mermaids’ destiny begins to unfold.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
This book really nails the environmental message all through the story. The mermaids are so different from humans, giving a fresh twist to the usual mermaid tale.
The romance takes a back seat, focusing more on a coming-of-age plot.
6. The Mermaid’s Tale by L.E. Richmond
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.16 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
Locklyn Adair, with her cursed legs and no mermaid tail, makes her feel like an outcast and decides to shield her niece from a similar fate by sending her to Atlantis. Darin Aalto, fueled by a desire to protect his family, joins Locklyn on a quest.
Together, they confront a family curse, hunt for lost treasure, and navigate unrequited love while striving to save their realm without losing each other.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
The story is full of fantasy romance book is full of action and moves quickly, keeping you engaged until the very end! Also, the world-building was incredibly immersive and captivating with its diverse cultures and legends.
The characters are so relatable and lovable. Just a heads up, this book leaves you hanging, so get ready to patiently wait for the sequel with me.
7. Rising by Holly Kelly
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.77 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
In a battle between humans and sea-dwellers, Xanthus Dimitriou, a powerful Dagonian, aims to protect humanity by an unexpected means – killing a young woman.
However, when he encounters Sara Taylor, a mysterious girl who is a human/Dagonian hybrid, his mission takes an unforeseen turn as he finds himself torn between duty and unexpected feelings.
Saving the world will have to wait as he faces a choice that could endanger his life.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
The characters in the book were such a joy to read, each with complex personalities. I really liked how Sara’s character, being in a wheelchair, represented a disability we don’t often see in books.
The first love romance was so heartwarming, making it a perfect addition to my collection of clean mermaid books for adults!
“I’ve never met a more unusual woman.” He smiled. “She is like being caught in a whirlpool. She’s moody, unreasonable, childish, overprotective, and by the gods, I’m beginning to like her.”
― Holly Kelly, Rising
8. Of Sea and Stone by Kate Avery Ellison
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.86 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: YA Fantasy Romance | 💝 On Kindle Unlimited | ✅ Read it!
Aemi, a slave from a seaside village, dreams of discovering her mother’s paradise, Perilous. But her life takes a sharp turn when she’s captured and taken to Itlantis, an underwater realm of advanced technology.
To break free, she must navigate a perilous path, encountering unexpected alliances and dangers lurking below. Unraveling the mysteries of this new world, Aemi realizes that her quest for freedom might bring her closer to her elusive homeland.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
The plot in this book moves along just right, and diving into the fascinating underwater world was a joy. The characters? Oh, I adored them!
Main and side characters alike were so well-developed with unique personalities. Brace yourself for unexpected twists that’ll have you itching for the sequel!
9. Skin of the Sea by Natasha Bowen
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.81 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: YA Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
Simi, once a mortal who sought the gods’ help, now serves as Mami Wata, a mermaid gathering souls of the sea’s departed. When she breaks ancient rules to save a boy’s life, she faces consequences.
To make amends and protect her kind, Simi sets off on a risky adventure. As secrets come to light and dangers loom, she must confront wrathful deities and mythical creatures to safeguard Mami Wata’s destiny and the world.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
This book is a new release that weaves together African history, mythology, and an immersive world that truly draws readers in. The inclusion of black mermaids and creatures was amazing to read.
The plot was so engaging and fast-paced. The cast of characters was so lovable, and the romance was truly so sweet. Plus the incredible covers in the series look amazing on your bookshelf.
“Do not be ashamed of who you are.”
― Natasha Bowen, Skin of the Sea
10. Tangled Tides by Karen Amanda Hooper
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.93 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Paranormal Romance | ✅ Read it!
Yara Jones, who once doubted the existence of sea monsters, finds herself plunged into an underwater realm of merfolk and selkies after waking up with fins during a hurricane.
Caught in a clash between the two underwater groups, she must navigate through broken promises, perilous threats, and unexpected romance with Treygan, a merman. As she battles to protect herself and those around her, Yara faces the prospect of losing her soul or discovering a love as deep as the oceans.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
This story dives right into action from the start and keeps the plot flowing throughout. While the characters sometimes fit into basic archetypes, they remain interesting and develop as the story unfolds.
The underwater world filled with magic was a delight, and the gradual reveal of mysteries and secrets kept me hooked. Make sure to add this gem to your fantasy reading list!
11. Wake by Amanda Hocking
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.69 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: YA Paranormal Romance | ✅ Read it!
Gemma, an easygoing girl who falls for her long-time friend Alex, finds herself caught up with the newcomers in her small town Penn, Lexi, and Thea over the summer. Following a mysterious night with them, Gemma wakes up transformed with newfound powers, but with a chilling price to pay.
She’s now confronted with a life-changing decision between her loved ones and a world shrouded in dark secrets.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
The plot was super intriguing and totally different from your usual mermaid books. I was all about the characters, and the romance? So much fun!
12. Captivate by Vanessa Garden
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.80 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: YA Fantasy Romance | 💝 On Kindle Unlimited | ✅ Read it!
When seventeen-year-old Miranda Sun’s parents pass away, she’s burdened with a dark secret that strains her bond with her only sibling, her older sister Lauren. During a beach getaway with her grandparents, a mysterious stranger kidnaps Miranda underwater. In an underwater city ruled by King Marko, Miranda refuses his proposal to marry her for his crown.
Teaming up with Marko’s guard Robbie, Miranda uncovers perilous secrets in the depths of the underwater city.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
This book features a love triangle that adds tension to the romantic storyline. The surprising depth of the underwater kingdom’s infertility subplot caught me off guard for a YA novel.
It’s packed with action, and you’ll definitely get hooked!
13. Born of Water by A.L. Knorr
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.20 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Paranormal Romance | 💝 On Kindle Unlimited | ✅ Read it!
Targa MacAuley finds herself torn between the human world and mermaid heritage as she keeps her true identity hidden to safeguard her mother’s secret.
When she joins a salvage dive, unexpected challenges arise, from a budding romance to perilous discoveries from an ancient shipwreck. With her entire life hanging in the balance, Targa must tap into her inner strength to navigate the treacherous waters ahead.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
This was a fun book and I had such a great time with the characters! The mother-daughter bond was just heartwarming, and I couldn’t get enough of the banter between Targa, the main character, and her friends.
The storyline was so intriguing, putting a cool spin on mermaid books for adults.
14. Deep Blue by Jennifer Donnelly
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.83 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
Serafina, daughter of Isabella the sea Queen of Miromara, is destined to be the ruler of the oldest civilization of the merfolk. On the eve of the Dokimí ceremony, she has a strange dream about the return of an ancient evil.
Amidst preparations, she worries about her future with the prince of Matali. During the ceremony, a shocking event occurs: the queen is wounded. Chaos ensues, confirming Serafina’s fears. With her friend Neela, she sets out to find the assassin’s master and prevent war. Joined by other mermaid heroines from across the seas, they uncover a world-threatening conspiracy.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
This is the first book in the Watersaga series (made up of 4 books), and I was totally hooked from the get-go! It’s not heavy on romance in the first book, but it’s all about strong female characters and tight-knit friendships.
The mermaids bring in a mix of ethnic backgrounds, making it diverse, and the worldbuilding is top-notch. This is a great book to add to your mermaid books for adults TBR!
15. Awaken by Skye Malone
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.85 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: YA Paranormal Romance | ✅ Read it!
Chloe Kowalski never planned to run away from home but finds herself entangled in a dangerous situation, her body undergoing strange changes. What was meant to be a vacation away from her peculiar family turns sinister as she faces impossible occurrences at sea.
Now hunted by madmen and followed by a mysterious figure, Chloe realizes her getaway is more than she bargained for.
Why you should read this mermaid book?
This book falls under YA fiction, so sometimes the storyline might seem a bit straightforward, but the author compensates with intriguing characters and unique magic elements.
I particularly liked the dual perspectives and found the underwater setting to be well-developed.
16. Breakwater by Catherine Jones Payne
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.72 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Fantasy Romance | 💝 On Kindle Unlimited | ✅ Read it!
Seventeen-year-old Jade, daughter of the mer-king’s advisor, finds herself juggling major responsibilities when her fiancé’s actions trigger conflict between the mer and naiads in the underwater city of Thessalonike.
Navigating scandal and unrest, Jade must safeguard her family and the city’s delicate peace. Can she bring the divided city together before hatred shatters all she treasures?
Why you should read this mermaid book?
I really enjoyed the strong world building in this good book and the addition of mermaid culture was fascinating. The plot kept me hooked with plenty of twists.
The characters were amazing and easy to relate to. The romance was sweet and light. Even though it’s a Christian book, there isn’t much focus on faith content, making it suitable for all readers.
FAQs about mermaid novels for adults
Okay, but are these books really just for adults?
Yep, they are! But hey, don’t worry. While they’re aimed at adults, they’re super clean so YA age readers will easily be able to pick up these books.
Can I find any romance in these mermaid tales?
Oh, definitely! Love and romance are really in the air. But it’s that sweet, heart-fluttering kind. Picture more hand-holding and meaningful glances rather than steamy scenes.
Not all the books are romantic, so be sure to check out the genre listed underneath the book and my thoughts to gauge if the romance is light or not that prominent.
Did you discover the best clean mermaid books for adults?
Honestly, there’s just something magical about getting lost in fantasy mermaid books. From their shimmering underwater worlds to their unique blend of mystery and adventure, these stories always leave me hooked.
I’ve loved immersing myself in tales of the sea, and they’ve become some of my favorite escapes. If you feel the same, why not keep track of your reading adventures?
Download my FREE printable book journal HERE and start capturing your thoughts, favorite moments, and the stories that make a splash in your imagination!
Excited for some more fantasy book recommendations?
Don’t forget to check out my other fantasy book lists!
- 12 Good Clean Vampire Romance Books to Read Today
- 8 Clean Books like Caraval by Stephanie Garber
- 13 Best Clean Hades x Persephone Books
- 15 Best Clean Werewolf Romance Books for your TBR List
- 12 Magical Clean Books Like The Cruel Prince
- 22 Sweet Novels like Beauty and the Beast (Clean Romance Edition!)
- 15 Clean Enemies to Lovers Fantasy Books You Don’t Want To Miss
