Fated Mates - Episode S07:09 Summary: Mermaid Romance with Zoraida Córdova/Zoey Castile

Hosts: Sarah MacLean & Jennifer Prokop
Guest: Zoraida Cordova (also known as Zoey Castile)
Release Date: November 5, 2024

Welcome and Introduction

The episode kicks off with Sarah MacLean and Jennifer Prokop engaging in their signature banter, introducing their guest, mermaid expert Zoraida Cordova. Their playful exchange sets a lighthearted tone as they segue into the main topic of mermaid romance in literature.

Sarah MacLean (00:29): "Everybody, please welcome, for the third time, I think, I don't know, fourth, maybe fourth time. Fourth. Zoraida Cordova is with us, who is also Zoe Castile."

Mermaid Anatomy and the Physics of Mermaid Romance

The conversation delves into the intricacies of mermaid anatomy, particularly focusing on the logistics of mermaid-human relationships. Sarah and Jen express their curiosity about the feasibility of mermaid interactions with humans, leading Zoraida to elaborate on her unique approach to mermaid physiology in her works.

Sarah MacLean (00:11): "I do have a question about, like, the physics of mermaid sex that I used to have questions about one version. One, like, mermaid sex question."

Zoraida Cordova (14:00): "So I'm like, okay, if mermaids are mammals, they have to have mammary glands. They need some seashells or some protection for their nipples."

Zoraida introduces the concept of a "pocket" in mermaid anatomy to address coverage during swimming and intimacy, blending scientific reasoning with magical elements to maintain plausibility within her fantasy settings.

Global Mermaid Lore and Mythology

Zoraida expands the discussion to mermaid myths from various cultures, highlighting the universal presence of merpeople in global folklore. This segment underscores the diversity and richness of mermaid legends, from Greek sirens to Slavic Rusalkas.

Jennifer Prokop (07:20): "That's when I saw the broadcast of the shell in, like a Batman sign."

Zoraida Cordova (09:42): "Russian people and Slavic people have the Rusalkas."

Zoraida Cordova's Contributions to Mermaid Romance

The hosts explore Zoraida's extensive bibliography, including her YA debut novels "Vicious Deep" and its sequels, the novella "The Captive Mermaid's Promise" (written under the pen name Zoe Castile), and various short stories. Sarah praises Zoraida's world-building and her blend of romance with fantastical elements.

Sarah MacLean (03:43): "She was one of my picks for the best of last year."

Zoraida Cordova (03:31): "It's a rockstar romance, but also a retell. A contemporary retelling of the Little Mermaid."

Challenges in Publishing Mermaid Romances

The discussion shifts to the publishing industry's reluctance to embrace mermaid romances robustly, despite the genre's rich potential. Zoraida reflects on the saturated vampire and paranormal markets, noting the scarcity of mermaid-focused narratives.

Zoraida Cordova (38:05): "Publishers are scared of it. They never know what to do with it."

Sarah MacLean (36:39): "Publishers don't always know how to market it."

Recommendations: Mermaid Romantic Novels

Both hosts and Zoraida recommend a selection of mermaid romance novels, spanning from classic tales to contemporary works. They highlight the diversity of storytelling approaches, from cozy witchy romances to dark, suspenseful narratives.

Zoraida Cordova (48:04): "The first book is 'Witchful Thinking' by Celestine Martin... it's like a super cozy witchy romance."

Sarah MacLean (55:00): "My first pick is Marjorie M. Liu's 'Soul Song'... a full standalone within a larger series."

Spotlight on Zoraida's Upcoming Works

Zoraida shares insights into her upcoming projects, including "Tentacles and Triathlons," a male-male queer romance, and her involvement in anthology editing. She also teases her future works, hinting at expansive world-building and diverse creature mythologies.

Zoraida Cordova (63:57): "It's called Tentacles and Triathlons... a Leviathan fitness novel."

Zoraida Cordova (82:20): "My next book doesn't come out till 2026. It's called 'The Fall of Rebel Angels.'"

Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with heartfelt thanks to Zoraida for her participation and contributions to the discussion on mermaid romances. The hosts encourage listeners to explore the recommended books and follow Zoraida’s work across her social media platforms.

Sarah MacLean (84:26): "Find her at @ZoraidaCordova.com... check show notes for all the many links and the books that we've talked about today."

Jennifer Prokop (87:00): "Thank you both for being with us."

Notable Quotes

• Sarah MacLean (00:11): "I do have a question about, like, the physics of mermaid sex that I used to have questions about one version."
• Zoraida Cordova (14:00): "If mermaids are mammals, they have to have mammary glands. They need some seashells or some protection for their nipples."
• Zoraida Cordova (38:05): "Publishers are scared of it. They never know what to do with it."
• Sarah MacLean (03:43): "She was one of my picks for the best of last year."
• Zoraida Cordova (63:57): "It's called Tentacles and Triathlons... a Leviathan fitness novel."

Conclusion

This episode of Fated Mates offers an in-depth exploration of mermaid romance, blending scientific curiosity with rich mythological context. Zoraida Cordova provides expert insights into mermaid anatomy, the challenges of writing mermaid romances, and the broader landscape of mermaid lore. The hosts and guest collaboratively celebrate the allure of mermaid narratives while addressing industry hurdles, making this episode a must-listen for romance enthusiasts seeking to dive deeper into aquatic amore.