When We Believed in Mermaids summary

Rekindling the Past

In When We Believed in Mermaids by Barbara O'Neal, we meet Kit, an ER doctor in Santa Cruz, who is shocked to see her sister, Josie, on the news. The problem? Josie died in a terrorist attack fifteen years ago. Kit's world is turned upside down as she grapples with the possibility that her sister might still be alive.

Kit's journey to uncover the truth takes her to New Zealand, where she discovers that Josie has been living under a different name. As she delves deeper into her sister's new life, Kit is forced to confront the painful memories of their shared past. She also meets a man named Kieran, who was a significant part of their lives during their teenage years.

Unearthing Secrets

As Kit continues to unravel the mystery of Josie's disappearance, she learns about the traumatic events that led to her sister's decision to fake her own death. She also discovers the depth of Josie's love for Kieran, and the sacrifices she made to protect him and their shared secrets.

Meanwhile, Kit's own life takes an unexpected turn as she finds herself falling for Kieran. Their shared history with Josie creates a complicated dynamic, but they are drawn together by their love for her and their desire to understand the truth.

Healing and Forgiveness

As the story unfolds, Kit and Kieran's relationship deepens, and they find solace in each other's company. Together, they come to terms with the past and the choices they made. Kit also begins to understand the reasons behind Josie's actions, and she learns to forgive her sister for the pain she caused.

Ultimately, When We Believed in Mermaids is a story of healing and forgiveness. Kit and Kieran find closure in their shared past, and they are able to move forward with their lives. The novel ends with a sense of hope and the promise of a brighter future for both of them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, When We Believed in Mermaids is a poignant tale of loss, love, and the enduring bond between siblings. Barbara O'Neal's skillful storytelling draws us into the complex lives of Kit, Josie, and Kieran, and keeps us engrossed until the very end. The novel reminds us that the past, no matter how painful, can be a source of healing and growth.