From the Depths is the second installment in Emily Renk Hawthorne’s Of Mountains and Seas series, and it continues to deliver the unique blend of urban fantasy, mythology, mystery, and social commentary that made the first book so intriguing.
Drawing inspiration from Chinese mythology and immigrant experiences, Hawthorne has created a series that feels refreshingly different from many contemporary fantasy novels. Rather than relying solely on epic battles or romance-driven plots, this story focuses on identity, memory, family, and the complicated ways communities shape the people within them.
Following a failed coup, a new regime has found a disturbing solution for maintaining peace: erase everyone’s memories.
Every Shifter has forgotten.
Except Nivi.
The Weight of Remembering
One of the most compelling aspects of this novel is its central premise. Nivi remembers everything. While everyone around her moves forward unaware of what was lost, Nivi becomes the sole guardian of truths no one else can access. Hawthorne captures the emotional consequences of this situation beautifully. The isolation, frustration, grief, and responsibility that come with remembering are explored with nuance and care. Nivi’s journey forms the emotional core of the novel, and it was easily my favorite aspect of the story.
Mystery Beneath the Surface
While the emotional storyline is strong, the mystery elements are equally engaging.
Strange events begin to unfold across the world:
- Abandoned homes appear in Yuras.
- A crabbing crew vanishes in Alaska.
- Students disappear from the local Shifter school.
- Reality itself seems to be unraveling.
These mysteries create an underlying tension that carries the story forward and encourages readers to piece together clues alongside the characters.
The result is a fantasy novel that often feels like a puzzle waiting to be solved.
Chinese Mythology and Cultural Influences
One of the elements that sets this series apart is Hawthorne’s incorporation of Chinese mythology and cultural influences. As noted in the series materials, the story explores themes of conformity, otherness, belonging, and generational trauma through the lens of a shapeshifting community. These themes add richness to the narrative and help elevate the story beyond a simple fantasy adventure. The mythology feels naturally woven into the world rather than existing as window dressing, creating a setting that feels distinct and memorable.
Character-Driven Fantasy
Readers looking for constant action may find From the Depths moves at a more measured pace. However, readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy will likely appreciate the time spent developing relationships, motivations, and emotional stakes. The multiple perspectives continue to provide different viewpoints on the unfolding events, while the interconnected mysteries gradually reveal deeper truths about the world and its inhabitants.
Final Thoughts
From the Depths is an intelligent and thoughtful sequel that successfully expands the scope of the Of Mountains and Seas series while remaining grounded in its characters. Emily Renk Hawthorne continues to explore meaningful themes through a unique fantasy lens, delivering a story filled with mystery, emotional depth, and compelling worldbuilding.
If you enjoy fantasy that asks bigger questions about identity, memory, and belonging while delivering a layered mystery, this series deserves a place on your reading list.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars)
Recommended For:
- Fans of Chinese mythology-inspired fantasy
- Readers who enjoy urban fantasy mysteries
- Multi-generational storytelling lovers
- Character-driven fantasy readers
- Fans of political intrigue and social commentary
- Readers who enjoy layered mysteries and multiple POV narratives
Book Details
📖 Title: From the Depths
✍️ Author: Emily Renk Hawthorne
🌊 Series: Of Mountains and Seas #2
⭐ Rating: 4 Stars
📚 Genre: Urban Fantasy / Mystery / Mythology-Inspired Fantasy