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Pirates and Water Nymphs #3
A Naiad's Promise
An MM fantasy romance with a human virgin, a naiad pirate, a failed one-night stand, age-difference, hurt/comfort, magic, and a kraken.
Ratherin is a virgin who dreams of a world beyond his small island. When pirates visit, Ratherin is captivated by the older water nymph and pirate Aneya. They share one passionate night. But as the sun rises and Aneya departs, Ratherin is left with nothing but memories. And a promise. A promise that Aneya will return and seek Ratherin out.
But when Aneya comes back, Ratherin’s world has been engulfed by grief after the death of his beloved uncle. On an impulse, Ratherin leaves his home and travels to Temple Island. Unable to leave Ratherin alone with his sorrow, Aneya stays by his side, offering solace and comfort.
Their connection and passion deepen, and Ratherin realises he wants more than just a temporary respite from his pain. He wants a love that will last a lifetime. And he wants that with Aneya.
But Aneya only planned for their relationship to be temporary. After all, Ratherin is too young and his grief is too deep for him to truly know his own heart.
Will Aneya open his heart to Ratherin? Or will fear cause him to hold back?
Ratherin is a virgin who dreams of a world beyond his small island. When pirates visit, Ratherin is captivated by the older water nymph and pirate Aneya. They share one passionate night. But as the sun rises and Aneya departs, Ratherin is left with nothing but memories. And a promise. A promise that Aneya will return and seek Ratherin out.
But when Aneya comes back, Ratherin’s world has been engulfed by grief after the death of his beloved uncle. On an impulse, Ratherin leaves his home and travels to Temple Island. Unable to leave Ratherin alone with his sorrow, Aneya stays by his side, offering solace and comfort.
Their connection and passion deepen, and Ratherin realises he wants more than just a temporary respite from his pain. He wants a love that will last a lifetime. And he wants that with Aneya.
But Aneya only planned for their relationship to be temporary. After all, Ratherin is too young and his grief is too deep for him to truly know his own heart.
Will Aneya open his heart to Ratherin? Or will fear cause him to hold back?
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 30, 2023
5 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
Gigi Rivers
27 books72 followersGigi spent her childhood daydreaming and living inside the imaginary worlds in her mind. As an author, she now shares these worlds with her readers.
Born and raised in Australia, she now resides in Berlin, Germany. She is mixed race, being half-Filipino and part Welsh. She is a traveller, potter, gym enthusiast, nature and animal lover, an avid consumer of stories, and now, a writer.
Gigi writes mm fantasy romance. Her debut series is A Naiad Romance.
Born and raised in Australia, she now resides in Berlin, Germany. She is mixed race, being half-Filipino and part Welsh. She is a traveller, potter, gym enthusiast, nature and animal lover, an avid consumer of stories, and now, a writer.
Gigi writes mm fantasy romance. Her debut series is A Naiad Romance.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
April 2, 2023
Rath and meet Aneya when Naiads Revenge comes to Rath and Levriths island.
Rath and Aneya’s relationship is cute but didn’t feel like the main focus. It felt like we spent more time learning about how good magic works. They didn’t have as much chemistry as others had but I still enjoyed their relationship. These two also have issues that could be solved simply by just communicating and not acting out on an uninformed opinion for part of the book, not as bad as the last one.
I’m hopeful we get to spend more time at the temple in future books. The plot line with The Order continues here and we get some cameos from Naiads Revenge and co. I’m dying to know how it all comes together.
And now I have to impatiently wait for the next one!
Rath and Aneya’s relationship is cute but didn’t feel like the main focus. It felt like we spent more time learning about how good magic works. They didn’t have as much chemistry as others had but I still enjoyed their relationship. These two also have issues that could be solved simply by just communicating and not acting out on an uninformed opinion for part of the book, not as bad as the last one.
I’m hopeful we get to spend more time at the temple in future books. The plot line with The Order continues here and we get some cameos from Naiads Revenge and co. I’m dying to know how it all comes together.
And now I have to impatiently wait for the next one!
May 1, 2023
What a beautiful story!
Full of emotions and a touch of angst. Rath is innocent and sweet, while Aneya seems more worldly, but the way he is drawn to Rath gave me goosebumps. Excellent world-building and 3D characters.
This may have been my first book of Gigi’s, but I’ve definitely gone back to the beginning of this series and devoured them one by one!
Full of emotions and a touch of angst. Rath is innocent and sweet, while Aneya seems more worldly, but the way he is drawn to Rath gave me goosebumps. Excellent world-building and 3D characters.
This may have been my first book of Gigi’s, but I’ve definitely gone back to the beginning of this series and devoured them one by one!
October 10, 2023
4.5)
This is my favorite book in this series!! I fell in love with Rath's eagerness and curiosity about the world, and what's out there, and I even grew fond of Aneya's skepticism, although, he made me quite upset when he broke Rath's heart.
But don't worry, this book has a happy ending! I not only really enjoyed the two MC's more in this book, but I also really loved the background. I enjoyed that this book has a different place setting than the previous books. I was exploring the new island right alongside these characters. The fact that Gigi came up with so many new ideas and concepts, along with different characters, just shows how determined she is to keep improving with each book in this series. They aren't the same, each book is quite different in its own way. The scenery was so beautifully written, I could imagine the island these characters were on, and I really liked Eirooka. I wasn't expecting that, and I'm really glad Gigi had put that character in the book, and not just as a background character that doesn't do much, but Eirooka played a pivotal role to the main action scene.
I do have to say this book just made me more intrigued by the overarching plotline, and now there are more characters that I'm curious about. For example, Sion! I really would like to get his story at some point, as his character was somewhat of a mystery in this book.
Overall, a really great book about learning how to carry on while dealing with grief and loss. How to find joy and beauty in the world, even when you feel bleak.
This is my favorite book in this series!! I fell in love with Rath's eagerness and curiosity about the world, and what's out there, and I even grew fond of Aneya's skepticism, although, he made me quite upset when he broke Rath's heart.
But don't worry, this book has a happy ending! I not only really enjoyed the two MC's more in this book, but I also really loved the background. I enjoyed that this book has a different place setting than the previous books. I was exploring the new island right alongside these characters. The fact that Gigi came up with so many new ideas and concepts, along with different characters, just shows how determined she is to keep improving with each book in this series. They aren't the same, each book is quite different in its own way. The scenery was so beautifully written, I could imagine the island these characters were on, and I really liked Eirooka. I wasn't expecting that, and I'm really glad Gigi had put that character in the book, and not just as a background character that doesn't do much, but Eirooka played a pivotal role to the main action scene.
I do have to say this book just made me more intrigued by the overarching plotline, and now there are more characters that I'm curious about. For example, Sion! I really would like to get his story at some point, as his character was somewhat of a mystery in this book.
Overall, a really great book about learning how to carry on while dealing with grief and loss. How to find joy and beauty in the world, even when you feel bleak.
March 19, 2023
Do With Me As You Will
‘He hoped Ratherin would be pleased to see him again. He smiled as excitement bubbled up inside him. He was going to see Ratherin again. He would fulfil his promise.’
In Gigi Rivers’ A Naiad Romance series, we have met magical and wonderful creatures who are able to find their person, usually after some miscommunication or lots of hard work.
Aneya and Rath’s story comes with some angst and sorrow, but love, like always, prevails in Gigi’s stories.
An older nymph, Aneya has felt the pain of loss, but finds himself emotionally attaching himself to a younger human who has also had his own share. Together they are on a path that has them searching deep inside, while always trying to make sure the other is taken care of.
Once again Gigi creates a fantastical world of beings with whom love, in its deepest form, takes precedence. We are overjoyed as their love grows, as well as crushed when things get rocky.
With supporting characters, some we have previously met, and a host of new nymphs, dryads, humans, and creatures of the sea helping them stay on their path, we can truly enjoy A Naiad’s Promise.
‘He hoped Ratherin would be pleased to see him again. He smiled as excitement bubbled up inside him. He was going to see Ratherin again. He would fulfil his promise.’
In Gigi Rivers’ A Naiad Romance series, we have met magical and wonderful creatures who are able to find their person, usually after some miscommunication or lots of hard work.
Aneya and Rath’s story comes with some angst and sorrow, but love, like always, prevails in Gigi’s stories.
An older nymph, Aneya has felt the pain of loss, but finds himself emotionally attaching himself to a younger human who has also had his own share. Together they are on a path that has them searching deep inside, while always trying to make sure the other is taken care of.
Once again Gigi creates a fantastical world of beings with whom love, in its deepest form, takes precedence. We are overjoyed as their love grows, as well as crushed when things get rocky.
With supporting characters, some we have previously met, and a host of new nymphs, dryads, humans, and creatures of the sea helping them stay on their path, we can truly enjoy A Naiad’s Promise.
March 24, 2023
❤️ all the feels with reading this book.
A good start as Rath and Aneya make a connection on the beach.
Ratherin was 24 and a human virgin longing to meet someone from his fantasies. Being caught nude by a naiad pirate in the early morning caught him off guard.
Aneya 35 years, was from the naid’s revenge sent ahead for Levrith and Ceto .
Rath wanted to travel but his uncle needed him.
A good first meeting for Rath and Aneya even if Kythe was stirring his friend.
The Order are still capturing naids for their powers and now they are using magic to fight.
I felt for Rath’s grief as he’d lost his uncle in scenes playing out, Aneya does everything he can once he’s back.
Visiting the Temple Island in an attempt to learn how magics would work in fighting the Order.
Rath puts the friendship label firmly in place with Aneya which disappoints him. Scenes play-out and a few surprises come to light for them both regarding what they feel.
I could have kicked Aneya for what he does near the ending.
Wow what a finish with all the action happening.
A good start as Rath and Aneya make a connection on the beach.
Ratherin was 24 and a human virgin longing to meet someone from his fantasies. Being caught nude by a naiad pirate in the early morning caught him off guard.
Aneya 35 years, was from the naid’s revenge sent ahead for Levrith and Ceto .
Rath wanted to travel but his uncle needed him.
A good first meeting for Rath and Aneya even if Kythe was stirring his friend.
The Order are still capturing naids for their powers and now they are using magic to fight.
I felt for Rath’s grief as he’d lost his uncle in scenes playing out, Aneya does everything he can once he’s back.
Visiting the Temple Island in an attempt to learn how magics would work in fighting the Order.
Rath puts the friendship label firmly in place with Aneya which disappoints him. Scenes play-out and a few surprises come to light for them both regarding what they feel.
I could have kicked Aneya for what he does near the ending.
Wow what a finish with all the action happening.
October 18, 2025
Such tragedy for someone so young. Rath losing his parents at a young age then finally both his Great Uncles who raised him.
Tailsen (Levrith's grandmother) the village healer and family friend is a source of strength for Rath through his grieving. That is until Aneya returns to the island for Levrith and Ceto's wedding and finds out that Rath has lost his last remaining Great Uncle a few weeks earlier.
Aneya can't bear to leave Rath and they end up going on an adventure to a nearby island in search for knowledge to assist in defeating The Order. Rath's initial reason for visiting is this is where Uncle Orin was born. Rath feels broken and underserving of the attention Aneya gives him. However, on Temple Island they discover themselves as individuals and as a couple.
Such a beautiful love story. On Temple Island Tailsen also finds her great love.
Tailsen (Levrith's grandmother) the village healer and family friend is a source of strength for Rath through his grieving. That is until Aneya returns to the island for Levrith and Ceto's wedding and finds out that Rath has lost his last remaining Great Uncle a few weeks earlier.
Aneya can't bear to leave Rath and they end up going on an adventure to a nearby island in search for knowledge to assist in defeating The Order. Rath's initial reason for visiting is this is where Uncle Orin was born. Rath feels broken and underserving of the attention Aneya gives him. However, on Temple Island they discover themselves as individuals and as a couple.
Such a beautiful love story. On Temple Island Tailsen also finds her great love.
March 29, 2023
Aneya and Rath’s story is full of emotion, and their relationship is fraught with chemistry and feeling. Despite their differences– in age, in experience, etc.–they share a profound connection and an understanding of loss and struggle. It’s super easy to feel all the feelings with this story– without giving away in plot details, there are heartbreaking moments and beautiful ones and deeply frustrating ones (looks askance at a certain main character, who knows who he is). Overall, it’s an immersive story that makes the most of the imaginatively realized setting and develops its characters, central and supporting, in interesting and rewarding ways.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 9, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐ I loved it
I got mad, laughed, cried, felt the horror of Ceto and Raiya about the Vegan thing 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 My new least favorite line is "we're friends" or "you're my friend" OMFG!!!
Leaving aside my feelings (which are all over the place) This book explores the difficulties of a relationship between people with very different backgrounds. Ratherin is young and inexperienced while Aneya is mature and more experienced.
Ratherin and Aneya complement each other just perfect and not only in terms of their relationship, but also with their magic.
They take care of each other and their relationship develops in the exact way that they both need.
I love that in each book I discover and learn more about the world in which it takes place, the magic, the creatures, the places, the kraken (yes, there is a kraken).
Another thing I love about the books in the series is that even though each book is about a different couple, there is a subplot that can only be understood by reading the books in order. And for me that's a bonus.
I'm looking forward next book!! I want The Order to be defeated once and for all!
I got mad, laughed, cried, felt the horror of Ceto and Raiya about the Vegan thing 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 My new least favorite line is "we're friends" or "you're my friend" OMFG!!!
Leaving aside my feelings (which are all over the place) This book explores the difficulties of a relationship between people with very different backgrounds. Ratherin is young and inexperienced while Aneya is mature and more experienced.
Ratherin and Aneya complement each other just perfect and not only in terms of their relationship, but also with their magic.
They take care of each other and their relationship develops in the exact way that they both need.
I love that in each book I discover and learn more about the world in which it takes place, the magic, the creatures, the places, the kraken (yes, there is a kraken).
Another thing I love about the books in the series is that even though each book is about a different couple, there is a subplot that can only be understood by reading the books in order. And for me that's a bonus.
I'm looking forward next book!! I want The Order to be defeated once and for all!
April 6, 2023
I’m so glad that Rath got his chance at a HEA after things did not go his way in the previous book. This was a lovely deeper dive into the magic in this world, along with a dive into the heart of a pirate who maybe doesn’t know himself as well as he thinks he does. (I really wanted to tell Aneya to start making “I” statements instead of continuing to assume what “you” need, lol.) A fascinating set of supporting characters, especially Eirooka! (Did not see that coming, lol.) It was lovely to see Rath and Aneya figure things out amidst a whole lot of emotional upheaval. A great addition to the series!
April 16, 2023
This was a beautiful and moving story full of emotions, love, angst, and sorrow. The MC’s had a deep connection and their chemistry was strong and passionate. Rath was sweet and a bit naive. Aneya was so worldly, yet he was so fascinated with Rath that it made me sigh several times. This book was well-written and the characters were well-developed. This was a good book to read and being that it was the first time reading a book from this author, I am looking forward to reading the whole series and any other works available.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 25, 2025
Much better than the first two, but the miscommunication/lack of communication trope is STILL used and is STILL the least favoured by the romance community! Authors take notes! It’s a cheap trope, c’mon.
Saying that, I loved that Aneya was put in his place for claiming to know what’s best for Rath and making decisions for him. And I love that he came to the realisation that it was actually just a defence mechanism for his own abandonment issues.
I had my misgivings about Temple Island and was as apprehensive as Aneya at first, but it ended up being so interesting and a really nurturing community. Can’t wait to read Everett and Kythe’s book next.
Saying that, I loved that Aneya was put in his place for claiming to know what’s best for Rath and making decisions for him. And I love that he came to the realisation that it was actually just a defence mechanism for his own abandonment issues.
I had my misgivings about Temple Island and was as apprehensive as Aneya at first, but it ended up being so interesting and a really nurturing community. Can’t wait to read Everett and Kythe’s book next.
March 29, 2023
I adore this series and every character I have gotten to know! Poor Rath is feeling so much grief and sadness. He is a shy sweet human but despite his fascination with the nymph Aneya he is not ready to move forward. Aneya has experienced loss and is older than Rath, but he cannot seem to tamp down the wonderful feelings Rath brings out in him. This one a little more angsty then the previous stories, but these are quicker reads so out of the heartache grows love and an undeniable chemistry! Beautiful first times for Rath!
April 1, 2023
Sweet with a hint of sorrow
Rath and Aneya’s story was a bit different to me than the other’s. Gigi’s stories don’t always present a perfect straight line to happiness but I felt with this one there was a little more sadness making the book feel a little more soulful? I’m not sure how to explain it but I enjoyed seeing the slightly sadder side before we got to the sweetness. Rath and Aneya were fantastic and it was lovely to see him move through his sadness with someone supportive. I really enjoy this series so it was also great to see some old faces and some new.
Rath and Aneya’s story was a bit different to me than the other’s. Gigi’s stories don’t always present a perfect straight line to happiness but I felt with this one there was a little more sadness making the book feel a little more soulful? I’m not sure how to explain it but I enjoyed seeing the slightly sadder side before we got to the sweetness. Rath and Aneya were fantastic and it was lovely to see him move through his sadness with someone supportive. I really enjoy this series so it was also great to see some old faces and some new.
April 5, 2023
My first venture into this author's works, and this book has definitely made me want to go back and read the other books in this series. Rath and Aneya are sweet together, even if Aneya spends a lot of time trying to guide Rath's life, with little input from Rath himself. Once they get their ducks in a row, the relationship is finally built up to what it shoulkd have been if Aneya actually listened to Rath, and his own heart. The kraken is an interesting twist. Overall, a good story with hints of hurt/ comfort.
March 31, 2023
This book was pretty good, other than I kept debating how to pronounce Aneya with myself in my head lol
I liked that Aneya was such a caretaker, trying to make sure that Rath has what he needs and takes care of himself. I thought the kraken part of the story was really interesting, and how their connection transformed all the things he had spent most of his life thinking and believing. Looking forward to the next one!
I liked that Aneya was such a caretaker, trying to make sure that Rath has what he needs and takes care of himself. I thought the kraken part of the story was really interesting, and how their connection transformed all the things he had spent most of his life thinking and believing. Looking forward to the next one!
March 26, 2023
Rath was an absolute sweetheart and Anyea tested my patience but the relationship that they had was worth it.
While A Naiad's Promise can be read as a standalone, there is more of an overarching storyline now, with the addition of magic, so I feel like reading more of the books would be better before reading this one.
These are shorter books but enjoyable reads and this one had a few surprises.
While A Naiad's Promise can be read as a standalone, there is more of an overarching storyline now, with the addition of magic, so I feel like reading more of the books would be better before reading this one.
These are shorter books but enjoyable reads and this one had a few surprises.
April 4, 2023
This is a story about saying goodbye - sometimes forever and sometimes just for a while. Rath and Aneya have an immediate connection but initially only one night with Aneya's promise to return. He does, but only to find Rath lost in the pain and darkness of grief. How Aneya steps up and out of his comfort zone to stay with Rath as he heals makes for a wonderful, emotional story.
March 31, 2023
Rath and Aneya
I enjoyed this story. This was a great addition to the series. There is adventure and excitement with great characters and a good storyline. The characters connect and they are very good together. This has a great ending. Very enjoyable.
I enjoyed this story. This was a great addition to the series. There is adventure and excitement with great characters and a good storyline. The characters connect and they are very good together. This has a great ending. Very enjoyable.
April 1, 2023
This is the first book that I read from this series. Rath is human and met Aneya while he was in the water in the early morning Aneya is a pirate and a naiad. I love this world and really enjoyed this book. There was some angst and great chemistry between these 2. Cannot wait to read more.
April 3, 2023
One night was all they had before he left them and now all they have is the memories. He will reappear when they loses their uncle and he will not leave them with their grief. What will happen now? How will they get on? See just what what is going to happen to them now
August 29, 2025
fucking lovely!!!!
March 30, 2023
Enjoyable read!
Rath and Aneya's story is well written and emotional. It's an interesting and enjoyable read.
This is such a fab series!
Rath and Aneya's story is well written and emotional. It's an interesting and enjoyable read.
This is such a fab series!
March 30, 2023
A fantastic addition to series!
Rath’s pain and loss hit me hard - my tears wouldn’t stop. My heart broke at how broken and withdrawn he became - I wanted to hug him so freaking bad.
Aneya tested my patience but he came through in the end.
A few good surprises were thrown in and one in particular, made my jaw drop - what Aneya achieved was so freaking cool.
I really enjoyed this book. Im absolutely loving this series and would highly recommend it.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
Rath’s pain and loss hit me hard - my tears wouldn’t stop. My heart broke at how broken and withdrawn he became - I wanted to hug him so freaking bad.
Aneya tested my patience but he came through in the end.
A few good surprises were thrown in and one in particular, made my jaw drop - what Aneya achieved was so freaking cool.
I really enjoyed this book. Im absolutely loving this series and would highly recommend it.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
December 19, 2023
A naiad, a human, and a kraken oh my!
This is book 5 in A Naiad Romance series. This was the first book in the series that I've read. I really enjoyed it and I don't believe it's necessary to have read the prior books to enjoy this book as I did.
This was the story of young human named Ratherin and an older naiad named Aneya. Ratherin is a shy fisherman raised by his great uncles. Aneya is a pirate who raised his younger brother.
This was such a sweet, endearing story with all the feels. I'm planning to go back and read the first 4 books to get caught up.
Fourteen year age gap, opposites attract, brings the heat, low angst
This is book 5 in A Naiad Romance series. This was the first book in the series that I've read. I really enjoyed it and I don't believe it's necessary to have read the prior books to enjoy this book as I did.
This was the story of young human named Ratherin and an older naiad named Aneya. Ratherin is a shy fisherman raised by his great uncles. Aneya is a pirate who raised his younger brother.
This was such a sweet, endearing story with all the feels. I'm planning to go back and read the first 4 books to get caught up.
Fourteen year age gap, opposites attract, brings the heat, low angst
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews