Review: The Deep-Sea Duke by Lauren James

Hugo is an android travelling with his (rather odd) group of friends (Duke Dorian and living island Ada) to Dorian’s
home planet, Hydrox, for the summer only to run into a butterfly refugee crisis and a mysterious creature causing chaos beneath the sea.

In The Deep-Sea Duke, James creates the intricate world of Hydrox and throws us in feet first, and yet the planet is familiar enough that she is able to do so. James uses mythological creatures that already exist in our mythos and puts
a beautiful spin on them, making them unique in her newest novel. James’s language is simple and eloquent, and her dialogue snappy and realistic.

The Deep-Sea Duke drew me in from the first chapter with its colourful characters, hilarious interactions, and fun premise, and it kept me entertained with its excellent and teen-friendly depictions of the climate crisis, racism, and LGBT+ love. The protagonists get what they need by the end of the book, but not necessarily what they want. The story emphasises that this is okay. While aimed at readers aged twelve and up, this novel is a mesmerising science-fiction story perfect for children, teens and adults alike who like to step into a new world.

The Deep-Sea Duke is the perfect story to read in one sitting on a warm summer day in the garden with a fresh glass of lemonade. Or any day, really. This book is just that good.

Elliot Gallogly