Natasha Bowen

Natasha Bowen is a Nigerian-Welsh author known for her young adult fantasy novels that blend African folklore with mythological elements. Her debut novel "Skin of the Sea" achieved New York Times Bestseller status and garnered attention for its unique portrayal of Black mermaids and Yoruba culture against the backdrop of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Born in Cambridge, England to a Nigerian Yoruba father and Welsh mother, Bowen studied Creative Writing at Bath Spa University before becoming a teacher in East London. She wrote her first novel while maintaining her full-time teaching position, drawing inspiration from her Nigerian heritage and personal interest in mermaid mythology. The "Of Mermaid and Orisa" series, which began with "Skin of the Sea" in 2021, follows the journey of Simi, a Mami Wata (water spirit) who must seek the Supreme Creator after breaking an ancient law. The series has been praised for its incorporation of West African mythology and historical elements into young adult fantasy. Currently residing in the UK with her family, Bowen continues to write and develop stories that explore the intersection of fantasy, cultural heritage, and historical themes. Her work has contributed to the diversification of young adult fantasy literature through its incorporation of African mythology and storytelling traditions.

Readers connect strongly with Bowen's fresh take on mermaid mythology and her integration of Yoruba culture into young adult fantasy. Reviews highlight the detailed world-building and representation of West African folklore. What readers liked: - Rich descriptions of underwater scenes and mythology - Educational elements about West African culture - Strong female protagonist - Complex handling of historical themes - Beautiful cover art and physical book design What readers disliked: - Pacing issues in middle sections - Romance subplot feels rushed - Some terminology can be confusing without prior knowledge - Younger readers report difficulty with heavy historical themes Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (20,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (1,000+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.3/5 (500+ ratings) One reader noted: "The blend of history and fantasy created something unique in YA literature." Another mentioned: "The learning curve for Yoruba terms is steep but worth it." Several reviews praised the "lush descriptions" but wanted "more character development."

Skin of the Sea (2021) A historical fantasy about Simidele, a young Mami Wata who defies ancient laws to save a drowning human boy, setting off a quest across West Africa where she must navigate both divine powers and the brutal realities of the slave trade.

Soul of the Deep (2022) The sequel to Skin of the Sea follows Simi as she faces the consequences of becoming fully human while battling ancient deities and confronting new threats to both the human and divine worlds.

Roseanne A. Brown writes YA fantasy based on West African mythology and folklore, focusing on Ghana. Her work combines historical elements with fantasy storylines and features Black protagonists discovering their connection to ancient powers.

Tomi Adeyemi created a fantasy series rooted in Yoruba mythology and Nigerian culture. Her books explore themes of power, identity, and resistance while incorporating African magic systems and cultural elements.

Karen Strong writes stories that blend African American folklore with contemporary fantasy elements. She incorporates supernatural elements from Black cultural traditions while addressing themes of family, identity, and coming of age.

Bethany C. Morrow creates fantasy narratives featuring Black merfolk and water spirits in both historical and contemporary settings. Her work examines race, identity, and power through speculative fiction frameworks while incorporating African diaspora mythology.

Namina Forna writes West African-inspired fantasy that combines traditional folklore with feminist themes. Her work features Black female protagonists navigating complex magical systems while dealing with colonialism and power structures.