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The Alayan Series #1
Emerald of the Sea
Backstabbing pirates. Extravagant dinner parties. Falling in love with the one man who’s out of reach. Seventeen-year-old Emma doesn’t know who she is or where she came from. The not-exactly-legal merchant ship she was raised on is the only home she’s ever known, and she’s had enough of the captain’s lies. Her plans to break free from her three-masted prison are thrown off course by a deadly mutiny, and she finds herself on the run with a target on her back. A charming naval officer becomes her unlikely companion, and though they’re constantly running from danger, Emma is even more afraid of the feelings she’s developing for a man she’ll likely never see again—if she can ever make it home. Maggie’s only friend in the world is the kitchen boy who works in her manor. When Maggie’s mother dies, she’s left to be raised by a controlling father whose only concern is marrying her off to the highest bidder. But when Maggie returns from finishing school, she finds that the kitchen boy isn’t a boy anymore, and he’s starting to feel like much more than just a childhood best friend. How can she choose a husband from the upper crust of society when her heart lies with the boy downstairs? When Emma’s and Maggie’s fates collide, the secrets from the past begin to unravel. But when danger finds them, will they regret pulling the thread?
328 pages, Paperback
Published June 5, 2023
262 people are currently reading
2268 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Pearl
6 books93 followersKimberly grew up in Flagstaff, Arizona and Wildwood, Missouri, the baby of seven children in a fun-loving and creative family. She got her first bachelor’s in Liberal Arts with a minor in Spanish at Utah State University, and returned for a second bachelor’s in Communicative Disorders. She loves ancient history, old stuff, and all things speech and language. She loves hiking in the woods and singing at the top of her lungs while doing the dishes, and hopes to someday become the old lady in the cottage who may or may not be a witch. She also loves to write.
Kimberly lives in Utah with her husband, Rob, their four lively kids, and two questionable cats.
Kimberly lives in Utah with her husband, Rob, their four lively kids, and two questionable cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
May 20, 2023
So, I need to warn you up front - this book is amazing, but also has a cliffhanger that will make you scream that the second book isn't out yet. However, I do have it on very good authority one is in the works!
This book is, in my opinion, the epitome of a YA adventure novel. It has mystery, swordplay, banter, romance, and a hefty dose of piracy with zero swearing, sex, or graphic violence. I could easily pass this off to a young teen and not worry at all about the content.
Characters - this book is a dual POV with two alternating stories. Although very different in feel, both have a feisty heroine with a slow and clean romance.
Atmosphere - Kimberly does a great job of slowly world building. She doesn't dump it on you all at once, but introduces things throughout the story. I'm assuming she's setting this world up to be used in multiple subsequent books because she employs a religious system, unique maps, cultures, and dialects. And really it's just too good not to use.
Writing Style - this book is fast-paced and good for someone who bores or gets distracted easily. She has a great vocabulary, but with a penchant for ellipses.
Plot - this was such a fun adventure/romance. I'd list the tropes included, but it definitely spoils a lot of the book. It's a comfortable and familiar tale, but with a few unexpected twists that keep you on your toes.
Intrigue - there's lots in this story to keep you hooked and interested. All of Emma's background is a mystery, you have no idea who Maggie is or how their stories are even related. Hints are given along the way, but don't expect to guess everything.
Logic/Relationships - I had to remind myself that Emma is 17, because otherwise I started to get confused by some of her actions and choices. However, all I had to do was remember what I was like when I was 17 and then it all checks out.
I loved the friendships and slow burn romances that developed between the characters.
Enjoyment - overall, this book was really fun to read. I loved the characters. I'm extremely invested in Hugo's story and I can't wait for the next book to be done. Write fast Kimberly!
This book is, in my opinion, the epitome of a YA adventure novel. It has mystery, swordplay, banter, romance, and a hefty dose of piracy with zero swearing, sex, or graphic violence. I could easily pass this off to a young teen and not worry at all about the content.
Characters - this book is a dual POV with two alternating stories. Although very different in feel, both have a feisty heroine with a slow and clean romance.
Atmosphere - Kimberly does a great job of slowly world building. She doesn't dump it on you all at once, but introduces things throughout the story. I'm assuming she's setting this world up to be used in multiple subsequent books because she employs a religious system, unique maps, cultures, and dialects. And really it's just too good not to use.
Writing Style - this book is fast-paced and good for someone who bores or gets distracted easily. She has a great vocabulary, but with a penchant for ellipses.
Plot - this was such a fun adventure/romance. I'd list the tropes included, but it definitely spoils a lot of the book. It's a comfortable and familiar tale, but with a few unexpected twists that keep you on your toes.
Intrigue - there's lots in this story to keep you hooked and interested. All of Emma's background is a mystery, you have no idea who Maggie is or how their stories are even related. Hints are given along the way, but don't expect to guess everything.
Logic/Relationships - I had to remind myself that Emma is 17, because otherwise I started to get confused by some of her actions and choices. However, all I had to do was remember what I was like when I was 17 and then it all checks out.
I loved the friendships and slow burn romances that developed between the characters.
Enjoyment - overall, this book was really fun to read. I loved the characters. I'm extremely invested in Hugo's story and I can't wait for the next book to be done. Write fast Kimberly!
January 13, 2026
“…being your friend—being with you—was worth it to me. Finding a way around the rules or just plain ignoring them, knowing that any moment I could be discovered and my life could be destroyed simply because I was born into a different class than you—all of that was worth it to me. You were worth it.”
Emerald of the Sea
This is one you just need to trust me on!! And you definitely want to go in blind to this one! I purposely kept this review as vague as I could.
Oh my word, I loved it so much!😍
Pirates, mutiny, ladies, swoony handsome men, secrets, so many secrets to be revealed!
Wow!
We’ve got Emma on a pirate ship who doesn’t know what happened to her when she was young and somehow separated from her mother.
We’ve got Maggie and a friends-to-lovers and forbidden romance story with Hugo. She is growing up in a castle and must marry for advantage to the crown.
I highly recommend this one. Everything about it! And goodness, that ending has me wanting to forget all of my ARCs and dive into book 2 right now!
Favorite parts:
Dual unique POV
Pirates
Castle
Adventure
Charlie
Hugo
Tending her wound
Friends to lovers
Meet cute
The whole book
All the reveals at the end
Epilogue😱
Series: The Alayan series book 1
Genre: Romantasy (no magic)
Romance Level: Kisses only
Release Date:
Available now on Hoopla, Amazon, KU
Publisher: Indie
Narrator: Tegan Bourke
POV: Dual
Content Guide:
Language: none
Romance Content: Closed-door: Some ogling of man’s muscles, chest; feelings of attraction, kissing
Violence/gore: Mild-gun/knife violence, some wounds
(bloody; burned), death (on page)
Substance Use: Moderate- One of the main characters drinks and becomes drunk, other characters drink
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: none
Other: death of loved ones (past), unknown past, grief
Emerald of the Sea
This is one you just need to trust me on!! And you definitely want to go in blind to this one! I purposely kept this review as vague as I could.
Oh my word, I loved it so much!😍
Pirates, mutiny, ladies, swoony handsome men, secrets, so many secrets to be revealed!
Wow!
We’ve got Emma on a pirate ship who doesn’t know what happened to her when she was young and somehow separated from her mother.
We’ve got Maggie and a friends-to-lovers and forbidden romance story with Hugo. She is growing up in a castle and must marry for advantage to the crown.
I highly recommend this one. Everything about it! And goodness, that ending has me wanting to forget all of my ARCs and dive into book 2 right now!
Favorite parts:
Dual unique POV
Pirates
Castle
Adventure
Charlie
Hugo
Tending her wound
Friends to lovers
Meet cute
The whole book
All the reveals at the end
Epilogue😱
Series: The Alayan series book 1
Genre: Romantasy (no magic)
Romance Level: Kisses only
Release Date:
Available now on Hoopla, Amazon, KU
Publisher: Indie
Narrator: Tegan Bourke
POV: Dual
Content Guide:
Language: none
Romance Content: Closed-door: Some ogling of man’s muscles, chest; feelings of attraction, kissing
Violence/gore: Mild-gun/knife violence, some wounds
(bloody; burned), death (on page)
Substance Use: Moderate- One of the main characters drinks and becomes drunk, other characters drink
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: none
Other: death of loved ones (past), unknown past, grief
January 10, 2026
This was…not for me.
It wasn’t horrible…I just did not enjoy literally one second of this which is really sad. There wasn’t anything blatantly wrong with it, so you may like it, it just definitely was not a book I liked.
To me the plot was predictable, boring, and lacked depth. The characters fell really flat and boring, my favorite being the captain at the beginning but he really isn’t in it much. The ending was rushed and hastened to give a cliffhanger but it just made me mad. Do I want to want to know what happens to ONE character, yes. Will it make me read the next book, no. The story itself just felt immature.
I’m sad to give this a low rating, but this is just my honest thoughts and opinions. I’m not hating on the author or her work, it just wasn’t for me.
Content:
Death, grief, drinking, drunkenness, kissing, details of attraction and a man without a shirt, battles, injuries. No spice romance.
It wasn’t horrible…I just did not enjoy literally one second of this which is really sad. There wasn’t anything blatantly wrong with it, so you may like it, it just definitely was not a book I liked.
To me the plot was predictable, boring, and lacked depth. The characters fell really flat and boring, my favorite being the captain at the beginning but he really isn’t in it much. The ending was rushed and hastened to give a cliffhanger but it just made me mad. Do I want to want to know what happens to ONE character, yes. Will it make me read the next book, no. The story itself just felt immature.
I’m sad to give this a low rating, but this is just my honest thoughts and opinions. I’m not hating on the author or her work, it just wasn’t for me.
Content:
Death, grief, drinking, drunkenness, kissing, details of attraction and a man without a shirt, battles, injuries. No spice romance.
March 18, 2024
Phenomenal. Just phenomenal. Amazing world building and compulsively readable.
July 2, 2023
I loved this one! Oh my goodness, people. This debut was so impressive. The plot line is robust and adventurous. The romance (double romance!) is deliciously sweet and achingly beautiful. The piratey stuff is SO MUCH FUN. Not many first time authors have such a well-defined (and witty) voice but this book delivers all the goods. Receiving it as an ARC and getting to read it early was a pleasure. Thank you, Kimberly, for writing such a sweeping (and clean) adventure.
Fair warning: It's a cliff hanger, and I am ANXIOUS for book two.
Fair warning: It's a cliff hanger, and I am ANXIOUS for book two.
October 11, 2024
I found the writing style annoying. By the end of the book, I was just---just done over---like--- this type of---of talking by the main character. Wayyy too much of the hesitating, tripping-over-ourselves-and-others-with- awkwardness conversations that the author kept setting up. And both MCs were killing me with how they were going on and on in their heads about how attractive their guy was and oh! His bulging muscles are---just---gulp.... don't look at them---can't resist---
Like really? They were like two horny wenches. I couldn't stop eye rolling. Did NOBODY else find any of this annoying except me?? I swear this is part of the reason i don't write reviews. It's like I'm the only one that seemed to notice it and find it unappealing.
EVERY situation just HAD to be turned into an opportunity to accidently touch each other (like the rocking boat scene... and the straddling his chest on this casket-sized dinghy to rebandage his shoulder while he's sleeping and hope that he doesn't wake... and yet she woke him up earlier to make him drink water. But now of course he wakes up at the most inconvenient and awkward yet romantic time).
Or the wayy overdone scene of them having to grasp each other intimately for the sake of not falling in this dark room that their trying to walk in to their beds (that are only 2 feet apart from each other, so you can imagine the size of this room). And she is constantly bumping into his large---firm---gulp---muscled chest and him having to grasp her closely to himself... and the reason the room is dark is because she quickly "laugh" huffed out her nose and it happened to blow out her lantern?! That's not logical. She's not a horse and it wasn't a candle.
Then, Mags didn't even choose Hugo! Who cares that in the next book they will be together...20 years later! It just ruined everything for me. She had a kid with another man that she didn't love and was an enemy of her country. Even Hugo suggested that she say no to the arranged marriage, but she refused to ever even try...
I'm rating this 3 instead of 2 stars because i really liked both male MC.
Also, the story supposedly continues in the second book, but it doesn't look like the focus is even on these characters. Instead, the author introduces new MCs to the book...and there is so much that needs to still be addressed from this book.
And their really was no plot twist. Everything that happened was expected, except maybe Hugo being the captain, but that wasn't surprising either once it was revealed
Just to mention a few..
Like really? They were like two horny wenches. I couldn't stop eye rolling. Did NOBODY else find any of this annoying except me?? I swear this is part of the reason i don't write reviews. It's like I'm the only one that seemed to notice it and find it unappealing.
EVERY situation just HAD to be turned into an opportunity to accidently touch each other (like the rocking boat scene... and the straddling his chest on this casket-sized dinghy to rebandage his shoulder while he's sleeping and hope that he doesn't wake... and yet she woke him up earlier to make him drink water. But now of course he wakes up at the most inconvenient and awkward yet romantic time).
Or the wayy overdone scene of them having to grasp each other intimately for the sake of not falling in this dark room that their trying to walk in to their beds (that are only 2 feet apart from each other, so you can imagine the size of this room). And she is constantly bumping into his large---firm---gulp---muscled chest and him having to grasp her closely to himself... and the reason the room is dark is because she quickly "laugh" huffed out her nose and it happened to blow out her lantern?! That's not logical. She's not a horse and it wasn't a candle.
Then, Mags didn't even choose Hugo! Who cares that in the next book they will be together...20 years later! It just ruined everything for me. She had a kid with another man that she didn't love and was an enemy of her country. Even Hugo suggested that she say no to the arranged marriage, but she refused to ever even try...
I'm rating this 3 instead of 2 stars because i really liked both male MC.
Also, the story supposedly continues in the second book, but it doesn't look like the focus is even on these characters. Instead, the author introduces new MCs to the book...and there is so much that needs to still be addressed from this book.
And their really was no plot twist. Everything that happened was expected, except maybe Hugo being the captain, but that wasn't surprising either once it was revealed
Just to mention a few..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2025
This is one of those books that is hard for me rate. For one, I'm not in the range of the target audience so I try to keep that in mind. UNLESS. Unless there is something that kind of irks me and this had that.
I liked the story line. It had merit. Pirates. Kidnapping. The open sea. Murder. Brawls. All good things. And the author used all of that to spin her story and keep things interesting. But the romances threw me off. Both of them seemed to drone on for several pages then it was back to the story. That off and on is never my favorite. But I still liked the story....so 3 stars.
I liked the story line. It had merit. Pirates. Kidnapping. The open sea. Murder. Brawls. All good things. And the author used all of that to spin her story and keep things interesting. But the romances threw me off. Both of them seemed to drone on for several pages then it was back to the story. That off and on is never my favorite. But I still liked the story....so 3 stars.
April 21, 2025
Emerald of the Sea is a wonderful fantasy adventure that combines swashbuckling pirates and finely finished debutantes. Which seems like a highly unusual combination, but it worked really well in this novel. We have two different perspectives here: Emma, who has been raised aboard a not-exactly-legal merchant ship and knows nothing of her past or identity; and Maggie, a young noble who has been raised in a manor, friendless but for a kitchen boy.
Two very different stories, equally compelling. How will they tie together?
I was invested in both stories. There was tension and laughter, joys and sorrows to be had through both plotlines. I found Emma’s adventures delightfully madcap, while I was rooting for Maggie’s star-crossed love to find a way to buck societal expectations. Both Emma and Maggie experience a slowburn, first love romance that I found incredibly sweet.
Because this is a book that relies so heavily on twists and reveals, there’s not much I can say about it in this review without giving something vital away. Did I figure out the twists and tie-ins fairly early on in the story? Yes I did. But did that impede my enjoyment in any way? Absolutely not. Even if I had figured out how the two were linked, I was still excited to see though ties come to the fore.
I thoroughly enjoyed Emerald of the Sea, and recommend it to anyone looking for a light, clean romantasy that still has substance. However, I would recommend also getting your hands on White Rose Rising, the sequel, as Emerald of the Sea leaves you with a bit of a cliffhanger and some unanswered questions. I’ve been told that White Rose Rising provides a satisfying conclusion for this particular cast of characters, and I’m excited to see what that entails.
Two very different stories, equally compelling. How will they tie together?
I was invested in both stories. There was tension and laughter, joys and sorrows to be had through both plotlines. I found Emma’s adventures delightfully madcap, while I was rooting for Maggie’s star-crossed love to find a way to buck societal expectations. Both Emma and Maggie experience a slowburn, first love romance that I found incredibly sweet.
Because this is a book that relies so heavily on twists and reveals, there’s not much I can say about it in this review without giving something vital away. Did I figure out the twists and tie-ins fairly early on in the story? Yes I did. But did that impede my enjoyment in any way? Absolutely not. Even if I had figured out how the two were linked, I was still excited to see though ties come to the fore.
I thoroughly enjoyed Emerald of the Sea, and recommend it to anyone looking for a light, clean romantasy that still has substance. However, I would recommend also getting your hands on White Rose Rising, the sequel, as Emerald of the Sea leaves you with a bit of a cliffhanger and some unanswered questions. I’ve been told that White Rose Rising provides a satisfying conclusion for this particular cast of characters, and I’m excited to see what that entails.
Want to read
May 14, 2024this cover is so pretty omg
It gives off coastal-island vibes. And the summary looks promising 🩵
It gives off coastal-island vibes. And the summary looks promising 🩵
dnf-shelf
September 12, 2024DNF @14%. The cover is gorgeous and the description sounds really good but I'm just not feeling it at this time.
June 9, 2023
Ok, so I’ve read a lot of YA fiction before, but never quite like this! The multi-plot makes this story unique and the read that much more intriguing and fun!
Plot 1: Emma has been raised by pirates for the last 13 years and is tired of it! All she wants is to be out on her own. She has been planning for months. Ignoring all the cautions, warnings, and desires of those closest to her, she is cutting the apron strings! She is an adult after all.
Plot 2: Maggie is a sheltered, lonely young noble who has lost her mother and has no one to turn to…except for Hugo, who happens to be a kitchen boy. While an acceptable choice in her youth (he did help get her out of the doldrums), he is not acceptable after finishing school and coming of age. But the heart wants what it wants.
The romance in this story is strong! It gives the reader plenty of opportunities to swoon, speculate, and get lost in the story.
“But being your friend—being with you—was worth it to me. Finding a way around the rules or just plan ignoring them, knowing that any moment I could be discovered and my life could be destroyed simply because I was born into a different class than you—all of that was worth it to me. You were worth it.”
I will give one caution: this is the first book in the series and leaves the reader asking a lot of questions. If you are one who doesn’t like that, you may want to wait until book 2 releases.
Read this book if you like:
🌊 Pirates
🌊 Quests
🌊 Mystery
🌊 Written Letters
🌊 Finishing School
🌊 Pubs, Brawls, Injuries
🌊 Blacksmiths and Naval Officers
🌊 Stolen Moments
🌊 Forbidden Love
🌊 Multi-plot
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Plot 1: Emma has been raised by pirates for the last 13 years and is tired of it! All she wants is to be out on her own. She has been planning for months. Ignoring all the cautions, warnings, and desires of those closest to her, she is cutting the apron strings! She is an adult after all.
Plot 2: Maggie is a sheltered, lonely young noble who has lost her mother and has no one to turn to…except for Hugo, who happens to be a kitchen boy. While an acceptable choice in her youth (he did help get her out of the doldrums), he is not acceptable after finishing school and coming of age. But the heart wants what it wants.
The romance in this story is strong! It gives the reader plenty of opportunities to swoon, speculate, and get lost in the story.
“But being your friend—being with you—was worth it to me. Finding a way around the rules or just plan ignoring them, knowing that any moment I could be discovered and my life could be destroyed simply because I was born into a different class than you—all of that was worth it to me. You were worth it.”
I will give one caution: this is the first book in the series and leaves the reader asking a lot of questions. If you are one who doesn’t like that, you may want to wait until book 2 releases.
Read this book if you like:
🌊 Pirates
🌊 Quests
🌊 Mystery
🌊 Written Letters
🌊 Finishing School
🌊 Pubs, Brawls, Injuries
🌊 Blacksmiths and Naval Officers
🌊 Stolen Moments
🌊 Forbidden Love
🌊 Multi-plot
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 6, 2023
A fast-moving story effectively told!
July 8, 2023
Read it for the:
- Dual Storylines
- Pirates
- Friends to lovers
- slow burn romance
- mystery
- Plot Twist!
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭:
TW: death
Romance: clean (kissing only)
Rating: ★★★★/5
𝐌𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
A fun and quick read Emerald of the Sea was one read that left me surprised and excited for more.
Emerald of the Sea had a unique plot, in that instead of one, there were two. The first followed Emma, a young woman raised on a pirate ship, and her journey to discover who she really is. The second storyline was that of Maggie, a wealthy upper-class girl, and her friendship with a kitchen boy, Hugo. I really enjoyed how the two plots built up and were so different from each other. I loved the way they collided in the end! I also enjoyed the romances featured. I was fully invested in both! Emma and Charlie were fun and flirty, while Maggie and Hugo had a slight forbidden romance tone to their story. I look forward to watching both develop more in future books. That ending left me hooked!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
- Dual Storylines
- Pirates
- Friends to lovers
- slow burn romance
- mystery
- Plot Twist!
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭:
TW: death
Romance: clean (kissing only)
Rating: ★★★★/5
𝐌𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
A fun and quick read Emerald of the Sea was one read that left me surprised and excited for more.
Emerald of the Sea had a unique plot, in that instead of one, there were two. The first followed Emma, a young woman raised on a pirate ship, and her journey to discover who she really is. The second storyline was that of Maggie, a wealthy upper-class girl, and her friendship with a kitchen boy, Hugo. I really enjoyed how the two plots built up and were so different from each other. I loved the way they collided in the end! I also enjoyed the romances featured. I was fully invested in both! Emma and Charlie were fun and flirty, while Maggie and Hugo had a slight forbidden romance tone to their story. I look forward to watching both develop more in future books. That ending left me hooked!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
July 5, 2023
I Loved This Book!!!
Did I say that loud enough for you all to hear? No? Let me try that again.
I LOVED THIS BOOK!
I am obsessed and was totally thrown for a loop and left on a cliffhanger. (Warning!! This book will leave you wanting more)
Emma and Charlie or Maggie and Hugo? Who will be your favorite story to follow? I guess you will just have to read it to find out. I don’t want to give too much away because I want you to go into this book not knowing anything, other than how awesome and amazing this debut novel is.
If you like:
Dangerous Pirates
Adventure
Childhood friends to more
Women needing rescuing
Brave Heroine’s
Brave Hero’s
Witty Banter
Endearing friends
Break your heart and put it together again moments
And so much more….
You will adore this book, just as much as I do.
*I received a copy of this book as an ARC reviewer, but a positive review wasn’t required. All thoughts are solely what I personally thought of this beautiful book.❤️❤️❤️
Did I say that loud enough for you all to hear? No? Let me try that again.
I LOVED THIS BOOK!
I am obsessed and was totally thrown for a loop and left on a cliffhanger. (Warning!! This book will leave you wanting more)
Emma and Charlie or Maggie and Hugo? Who will be your favorite story to follow? I guess you will just have to read it to find out. I don’t want to give too much away because I want you to go into this book not knowing anything, other than how awesome and amazing this debut novel is.
If you like:
Dangerous Pirates
Adventure
Childhood friends to more
Women needing rescuing
Brave Heroine’s
Brave Hero’s
Witty Banter
Endearing friends
Break your heart and put it together again moments
And so much more….
You will adore this book, just as much as I do.
*I received a copy of this book as an ARC reviewer, but a positive review wasn’t required. All thoughts are solely what I personally thought of this beautiful book.❤️❤️❤️
December 27, 2023
2.5 stars rounded down.
I’m gonna be real honest, this book was not very good. It felt way more middle grade than YA and it just made me think of something I would have read in middle school. The writing was very juvenile and bounced around a lot and wasn’t very good in general. It felt like a pirate version of Tangled. The story didn’t even really pick up until the last 80 pages and I feel like that’s where the story should have started. I would skip this one if it’s on your TBR.
I’m gonna be real honest, this book was not very good. It felt way more middle grade than YA and it just made me think of something I would have read in middle school. The writing was very juvenile and bounced around a lot and wasn’t very good in general. It felt like a pirate version of Tangled. The story didn’t even really pick up until the last 80 pages and I feel like that’s where the story should have started. I would skip this one if it’s on your TBR.
April 30, 2024
3.75⭐️
other
May 10, 2025DNF Review
Stopped reading at page 93, 30%. I just wasn't feeling it.
The writing was super simplistic. Maybe I'm spoiled reading this shortly after reading Juliet Marillier, but the writing quality was not up to par for me personally. It’s written too casually. It sort of felt like the way I talk online, with lots of ellipses and incomplete sentences. Yes it’s the way we talk nowadays, but I don’t like it in a book. That’s my personal preference, even for YA.
I can see this being enjoyable for some pre-teens and young teenagers, but to me it felt uninspiring and didn't feel unique, at least at the point I stopped reading. I didn't feel invested. I was a bit curious about Maggie’s story (there are two POVs and storylines), but not enough to continue. When I went and read spoiler reviews on Goodreads, the story/reveal sounded somewhat intriguing. But I’m pretty sure the writing would have bothered me throughout, and I suspect there wouldn’t have been enough world-building for me.
!!A lot of my friends loved this one, so don't let me keep you from trying it!!
Stopped reading at page 93, 30%. I just wasn't feeling it.
The writing was super simplistic. Maybe I'm spoiled reading this shortly after reading Juliet Marillier, but the writing quality was not up to par for me personally. It’s written too casually. It sort of felt like the way I talk online, with lots of ellipses and incomplete sentences. Yes it’s the way we talk nowadays, but I don’t like it in a book. That’s my personal preference, even for YA.
I can see this being enjoyable for some pre-teens and young teenagers, but to me it felt uninspiring and didn't feel unique, at least at the point I stopped reading. I didn't feel invested. I was a bit curious about Maggie’s story (there are two POVs and storylines), but not enough to continue. When I went and read spoiler reviews on Goodreads, the story/reveal sounded somewhat intriguing. But I’m pretty sure the writing would have bothered me throughout, and I suspect there wouldn’t have been enough world-building for me.
!!A lot of my friends loved this one, so don't let me keep you from trying it!!
July 13, 2023
WOW. This book was incredible. The slow burn and friend to romance melted my heart. No spice, all swoon. The pirates, the mysteries, the adventures. I am so sad I finished this book so quickly because now I have to wait around for number two to come out! Highly recommend 💕
August 29, 2024
(4.5 stars) - A thoroughly entertaining adventure...
While this book is YA, it's written in a way that even adults will enjoy. Emma is a 17 year old girl who has been at sea for as long as she can remember. At the story's opening, the pirate captain who's been like a father to her has become oppressively strict, & she's ready to break free and take control of her own life. Until reality slaps her hard.
Then the adventure begins - which thankfully gives enough reality to keep things exciting without getting unwelcomely dark
Emma is an amusing protagonist despite her occasional youthful foolishness & her relationship with Charlie is charming fun
I'm so happy that I found this just days before its sequel releases because I can't wait to read more!
* Romance level: young love & attraction with some occasional intimate situations that are sometimes confusing to the protagonist; suitable for older teens; a gentle PG
While this book is YA, it's written in a way that even adults will enjoy. Emma is a 17 year old girl who has been at sea for as long as she can remember. At the story's opening, the pirate captain who's been like a father to her has become oppressively strict, & she's ready to break free and take control of her own life. Until reality slaps her hard.
Then the adventure begins - which thankfully gives enough reality to keep things exciting without getting unwelcomely dark
Emma is an amusing protagonist despite her occasional youthful foolishness & her relationship with Charlie is charming fun
I'm so happy that I found this just days before its sequel releases because I can't wait to read more!
* Romance level: young love & attraction with some occasional intimate situations that are sometimes confusing to the protagonist; suitable for older teens; a gentle PG
February 8, 2024
FANTASTIC STARTER.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I am 100% invested in continuing this series. I loved how the dual POV was written for this book and seeing how the story unfolded. I kept having many different thoughts on how it would all come together and let’s just say I was blindsided on many fronts and I LOVE when a book can do that.
I love all of these characters (and I’m purposely trying to stay vague because I think this will be best to go in blind if you can) and feel emotionally attached to them. I NEED ANSWERS. This was a big high seas adventure with plenty of action and some really sweet moments too.
For a short fantasy I think not having a magic system worked as a strong positive. You get the world building that’s necessary but I wasn’t left wanting with explanations of other things. I look forward to seeing the world expand in the next book.
NEED THE NEXT BOOK.
Overall audience notes:
- YA Fantasy
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: moderate – high
- Trigger/Content Warnings: kidnapping, weapons violence, ship wrecks, near death experiences, loss of life
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I am 100% invested in continuing this series. I loved how the dual POV was written for this book and seeing how the story unfolded. I kept having many different thoughts on how it would all come together and let’s just say I was blindsided on many fronts and I LOVE when a book can do that.
I love all of these characters (and I’m purposely trying to stay vague because I think this will be best to go in blind if you can) and feel emotionally attached to them. I NEED ANSWERS. This was a big high seas adventure with plenty of action and some really sweet moments too.
For a short fantasy I think not having a magic system worked as a strong positive. You get the world building that’s necessary but I wasn’t left wanting with explanations of other things. I look forward to seeing the world expand in the next book.
NEED THE NEXT BOOK.
Overall audience notes:
- YA Fantasy
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: moderate – high
- Trigger/Content Warnings: kidnapping, weapons violence, ship wrecks, near death experiences, loss of life
November 28, 2023
I need book two immediately (this is exactly what I wanted in a non-magical YA fantasy. The pacing was stunning. I inadvertently guessed parts of the plot twist but it was still jaw-dropping and emotional for me. I found the perfect music to read this to and it totally enhanced my reading experience.
The author did a great job at writing the characters as their ages and the world-building was low-key and straightforward, which I appreciated. I could picture everything really well.
I loved all of the main characters but Charlie...was my favorite. His personality was top-tier. This ends on a total cliffhanger while still ending really strong. Ugh I can't wait for book two. Trying to keep my thoughts brief because there's just too much to spoil, but I highly recommend!
The author did a great job at writing the characters as their ages and the world-building was low-key and straightforward, which I appreciated. I could picture everything really well.
I loved all of the main characters but Charlie...was my favorite. His personality was top-tier. This ends on a total cliffhanger while still ending really strong. Ugh I can't wait for book two. Trying to keep my thoughts brief because there's just too much to spoil, but I highly recommend!
July 8, 2023
Fun, fast paced debut novel/start of series. 15 year old me would have been obsessed. There is no way I could have resisted a story about a beautiful 17 year old pirate lady who doesn’t know her true identity and teams up with a handsome stranger on a high seas adventure.
Now I just have to wait for the second book to release to find out what happens next!
Now I just have to wait for the second book to release to find out what happens next!
July 25, 2023
I first heard of this book because Annette K. Larsen is the author's sister. I love Annette's books, so I figured her sister's would be just as good, and I wasn't wrong. This is Kimberly's debut novel, and it was so good! Also, I may have succumbed to buying the ebook because the cover art is all the heart eyes. 😍
I loved the dual love stories. Charlie/Emma may be my favorite though.
Lots of twists at the end and cliffhangers for book 2!
I loved the dual love stories. Charlie/Emma may be my favorite though.
Lots of twists at the end and cliffhangers for book 2!
May 31, 2023
This book sucked me in immediately. First of all, I have no idea how anyone can write a story and keep things all lined up, but this one has 2. They intertwine and connect in ways I couldn’t even guess! The clean romances (yes 2!) made me so happy—they’re hard to find in general, let alone in an actually interesting story line! I canNOT wait until the next one comes out!! (Make it be soon please please 🙏🏻🙏🏻)
July 24, 2023
intriguing story line
This is the first time I’ve read this author and she is so good. A natural story teller. I absolutely loved this story from start to finish and hate that it was ended on a cliff hanger. Not knowing what comes next. I hope to see young Emerald find her past in full and for both Maggie and her to get their happy endings.
This is the first time I’ve read this author and she is so good. A natural story teller. I absolutely loved this story from start to finish and hate that it was ended on a cliff hanger. Not knowing what comes next. I hope to see young Emerald find her past in full and for both Maggie and her to get their happy endings.
July 2, 2023
This book is like a breath of fresh air. Pirate story meets regency-vibes story? Yes ma’am! It’s the perfect blend of excitement, romance, and humor, with two separate, equally compelling casts and settings that come together in a super satisfying way in the end.
Things I love in this book:
*Rollicking adventure
*Witty humor
*Swoony romance
*Mystery & intrigue
*A unique world, seamlessly integrated into the plot
Best of all, Kimberly has a gift for writing adorable romance that makes you just a little bit giddy. This book is so much fun to read, and I can’t wait for the next season one!
Things I love in this book:
*Rollicking adventure
*Witty humor
*Swoony romance
*Mystery & intrigue
*A unique world, seamlessly integrated into the plot
Best of all, Kimberly has a gift for writing adorable romance that makes you just a little bit giddy. This book is so much fun to read, and I can’t wait for the next season one!
July 25, 2024
Looking forward to the second book in August!
May 9, 2025
This book reminds me a lot of “Set the Stars Alight” by Amanda Dykes ( a book I loved!)
Similar not in plot but in characters and the way the book is written, every other chapter being about two stories that tie together. This book was not as well written as “Set the stars Alight” so I had a hard time following both stories and enjoying them. Both “plots” were good, Emma is the main MC and her story was definitely more interesting than Margaret’s but I understand where the author was going.
I was definitely able to predict the ending but I will be reading the second book and interested to see where that leads.
Similar not in plot but in characters and the way the book is written, every other chapter being about two stories that tie together. This book was not as well written as “Set the stars Alight” so I had a hard time following both stories and enjoying them. Both “plots” were good, Emma is the main MC and her story was definitely more interesting than Margaret’s but I understand where the author was going.
I was definitely able to predict the ending but I will be reading the second book and interested to see where that leads.
April 2, 2024
It was an enjoyable read. Fun adventure with Emma. I loved her spunk and strength! With the romances I really liked the cute and clever teasing! However, I felt like the times when the girls felt nervous/awkward around their guys happened too much, like their flubbing and all that. I got tired of the explanations I guess. Same for when they accidentally saw their guy shirtless, or when she had to grab his hand for some reason. The depth of distraction and tingling they felt everywhere throughout their whole body every. single. time. just started to feel too much for me.
The story captivated me enough though to want to know how it all connected and such.
I do plan to read the next book.
The story captivated me enough though to want to know how it all connected and such.
I do plan to read the next book.
July 6, 2023
I couldn’t put this one down! Stayed up late last night reading, and I hardly do that anymore. I really loved both POV equally which is abnormal for me. Perfect amounts of adventure and romance. I will be anxiously awaiting book 2!
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