The Moorings of Mackerel Sky: A Novel By M.Z. Emily Zack

Debut author MZ weaves fantasy into the fabric of everyday life in a Maine lobstering town, where local myths blend with reality. Inspired by the legend of Captain Burrbank and the mermaid Nimuë, Mackerel Sky is both enchanted and burdened by its past.

Myra Kelley, a gruff widow, cares for troubled teenager Leo Beale, whose struggles with addiction mirror the town's turbulent history. Star pitcher Derrick Stowe grapples with his identity and desires in a community that may not accept him. Meanwhile, Manon Perle, known for her exquisite quilts depicting the mermaid legend, hides her own heartache.

As the town faces challenges and changes, the enduring power of love and folklore becomes evident. From Leo's quest for solace to Derrick's journey toward self-acceptance, each character navigates their own trials against the backdrop of Mackerel Sky's mythical legacy.

With praise likening it to Alix E. Harrow's "The Ten Thousand Doors of January," MZ's debut is hailed as arresting, lyrical, and emotionally resonant. Through intertwining narratives, the novel explores themes of grief, hope, and the resilience of community in the face of adversity.

In Mackerel Sky, where mermaids are both revered and feared, the bonds of love and lore shape the town's destiny. As the inhabitants grapple with their past and present, they must harness the power of their shared stories to ensure the town's survival for generations to come.