The Fish in Room 11

I found this book totally by accident when I was searching publishers to write to with my own story. A brief glance at the outline, and I thought it would be worth having a look. And I'm glad I did! Compared by some to Roald Dahl, I would say that Heather Dyer's book is not quite at the whackiness of Dahl, but it's pretty good.

Toby, an orpan from birth, lives in a seaside hotel and is bossed around by the 'orrible hotel owner. One day, a trip down to the beach brings him into contact with Eliza Flot, a mermaid. Several problems lead Eliza and her parents to take up residence in Room 11 of the Hotel. Needless to say, the officious owner is less than happy.

The way Heather deals with him reminds me of Dahl's brilliance in setting up an atrocious character and then knocking them down with a big punch. This is a great book for someone who is unlikely to read much without a push. It's exciting, fun, and not the kind of story you'd want to stop at half way through.

Like Roald Dahl? Then you'll like this too. I'm definitely going to find Heather's other books.