The first half of this book is deeply engrossing from the point of view of a fantasy reader. Once Harry and Ronin come up with a plan to break the curse, I'll admit that I found their idea a bit silly. It does pick up again at the end to the novel proper, though, which was surprising and yet, once it was revealed perfect. I'm not sure how much the short story about Andersen and the original little mermaid that follows the ending adds to it, however. It felt like backstory that was cut from the main book for slowing it down.
Overall: B