Into the Drowning Deep (Rolling in the Deep, #1) by Mira Grant

Synopsis:

 

Seven years ago, the Atargatis set off on a voyage to the Mariana Trench to film a “mockumentary” bringing to life ancient sea creatures of legend. It was lost at sea with all hands. Some have called it a hoax; others have called it a maritime tragedy.

Now, a new crew has been assembled. But this time they’re not out to entertain. Some seek to validate their life’s work. Some seek the greatest hunt of all. Some seek the truth. But for the ambitious young scientist Victoria Stewart this is a voyage to uncover the fate of the sister she lost.

Whatever the truth may be, it will only be found below the waves. But the secrets of the deep come with a price.

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

 

This would've been a five star read for me had I not read the prequel novella. This book really is incredible - but much of the mystery and suspense was taken away from me because I already understood the creatures based off of the novella. Instead, the suspense just made for a slow read, despite how absolutely amazing the premise and world-building is.

One of my biggest critiques of the novella was not having enough space to really care about the large cast of characters, and Into the Drowning Deep fixes that by leaps and bounds. Every character had their own personality and goals, and really stood out from one another. I didn't particularly love anyone, but all of them were very thoroughly fleshed-out.

Also, gay girls in this book. Thank you goddess Mira Grant (Seanan McGuire).

Highly, HIGHLY recommend this one!!!