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Death's Kiss
Dive in to the cruel and unforgiving world of the Cardinal North Order of the Tide Raiders in M.M. Reeves debut novel.
Twenty-year-old Merena Boreas has had to fight her way tooth and nail just to survive the last seven years of hellish instruction provided by the Cardinal North and has earned herself the esteemed title of Captain, just in time to complete her eighth and final year.
But this year is no normal year…
This year the legendary Vault has unexpectedly arisen, offering a chance to catch the eye of a TideLord and secure her and her crew's future careers. Merena stands on the precipice of an opportunity like no other. She’s obligated to compete in the four deadly Pillar Trials against seven other captains from the three rival Cardinal Orders of South, East, and West.
But when you’re a castaway with no memory and a bastard’s name to boot… you’re also a target. A target for other captains—such as Captain Agni of the Cardinal South—the insufferably arrogant highborn who is every bit as ruthless as he is powerful.
It’ll take more than just her rare elemental affinity to win The Vault, let alone survive each deadly trial.
Yet, with every day that inches past, something haunting is being whispered along the sea breeze. There’s a darkness beginning to press into every corner of the Cardinal North's daunting fortress. It’s presence amplifies the wild and unruly beating coming from behind that wall of ice inside.
Something is coming.
A warning?
A message?
A memory.
Twenty-year-old Merena Boreas has had to fight her way tooth and nail just to survive the last seven years of hellish instruction provided by the Cardinal North and has earned herself the esteemed title of Captain, just in time to complete her eighth and final year.
But this year is no normal year…
This year the legendary Vault has unexpectedly arisen, offering a chance to catch the eye of a TideLord and secure her and her crew's future careers. Merena stands on the precipice of an opportunity like no other. She’s obligated to compete in the four deadly Pillar Trials against seven other captains from the three rival Cardinal Orders of South, East, and West.
But when you’re a castaway with no memory and a bastard’s name to boot… you’re also a target. A target for other captains—such as Captain Agni of the Cardinal South—the insufferably arrogant highborn who is every bit as ruthless as he is powerful.
It’ll take more than just her rare elemental affinity to win The Vault, let alone survive each deadly trial.
Yet, with every day that inches past, something haunting is being whispered along the sea breeze. There’s a darkness beginning to press into every corner of the Cardinal North's daunting fortress. It’s presence amplifies the wild and unruly beating coming from behind that wall of ice inside.
Something is coming.
A warning?
A message?
A memory.
615 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 7, 2025
113 people are currently reading
2734 people want to read
About the author
M.M. Reeves
2 books85 followersWhen Reeves isn’t crafting epic dark fantasy worlds filled with flawed heroes and fierce rivalries, you can find her climbing the mountain known as her TBR list, finding new coffee shops with her husband, or adventuring with their beloved child (a 3-year-old pup). An avid lover of myth, maps, and mysteries, Reeves weaves tales of slow-burn romance and high-stakes adventure in their debut series. Whether diving into the depths of an enemies-to-lovers plotline or mapping out mythical lands, Reeves invites readers to journey into the shadows where legends are born and destinies collide. You can find her on TikTok @m.m.reeves, Instagram @m.m.reeves.author or check out her website!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
March 19, 2025
This is a book that deserves to blow up. I fear I need to make it my personal mission to make it blow up in fact. This is TRUE enemies to lovers I mean these two HATED each other. I clearly was not reading true ETL in the past because the hate was palpable all the way. But you know what goes along with that hate? Tension. Visceral tension. You could cut it with a knife. It’s imperative you read the translations at the front of the book when he starts to speak in his language because oh boy oh boy oh boy the things he said. Not to mention it starts to bring things full circle. Those tension filled moments had me on my kneeeees.
This book has magic, trials, pirates and the most mouth watering slow burn I’ve ever read. Not to mention it’s a mystery. She doesn’t know her past so we’re left with tons of questions that I’m biting at the bit to get answers to. There’s so much we don’t know about the past and what it all means. Especially one specific scene that had my jaw on the floor with how out of the blue SHOCKING it was.
Also the found family is beautiful. You can feel the true sisterhood they have with each other in the crew :,)
These trials were AMAZING, it brought us into mythology and was just so damn creative. The world building is so unique with how they become raiders too. The FMC is the ultimate bad ass and I fear I am unable to wait until the next book. I will be singing this books high praises for ages. I NEED to know more. I’ve been edged with how good this was!!!! READ IT READ IT READ IT READ IT READ IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This book has magic, trials, pirates and the most mouth watering slow burn I’ve ever read. Not to mention it’s a mystery. She doesn’t know her past so we’re left with tons of questions that I’m biting at the bit to get answers to. There’s so much we don’t know about the past and what it all means. Especially one specific scene that had my jaw on the floor with how out of the blue SHOCKING it was.
Also the found family is beautiful. You can feel the true sisterhood they have with each other in the crew :,)
These trials were AMAZING, it brought us into mythology and was just so damn creative. The world building is so unique with how they become raiders too. The FMC is the ultimate bad ass and I fear I am unable to wait until the next book. I will be singing this books high praises for ages. I NEED to know more. I’ve been edged with how good this was!!!! READ IT READ IT READ IT READ IT READ IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
April 23, 2025
Thank you to The Nerd Fam and M.M. Reeves for the gifted ebook! I was in the mood for something different and I’ve never read a pirate book, so I was super excited to read this! This is definitely the first book in a fantasy series, so there is a lot of world building and politics that could be confusing at times.
I really liked the FMC Merena. She’s faced a lot of adversity and discrimination for her castaway/bastard status, but claimed her way to the top through sheer will and determination. I love the care she has for her crew—the found family in this book is wonderful. And I LOVE the fact that it’s an all female crew!
I have so many questions about Agni and I want to know more!!! This book slowly uncovered aspects of his personality, and I feel like there’s still so much more to find out. This is real enemies to lovers and the tension between Agni and Merena is delicious. This is a SLOWWWWWW burn and I can’t wait to see how it progresses in future books.
The trials in this book were great and went along with the story so well! I also loved that it had an academy setting since those are always some of my favorites. I did dock a star because this did feel very slow at times, and it was a loooooong book. There were also a pretty significant amount of typos (a repeated paragraph and a lot of apostrophes where they shouldn’t be), and I struggle to look past more than a few. Despite that, I’ll definitely be reading the next book when it comes out!
I really liked the FMC Merena. She’s faced a lot of adversity and discrimination for her castaway/bastard status, but claimed her way to the top through sheer will and determination. I love the care she has for her crew—the found family in this book is wonderful. And I LOVE the fact that it’s an all female crew!
I have so many questions about Agni and I want to know more!!! This book slowly uncovered aspects of his personality, and I feel like there’s still so much more to find out. This is real enemies to lovers and the tension between Agni and Merena is delicious. This is a SLOWWWWWW burn and I can’t wait to see how it progresses in future books.
The trials in this book were great and went along with the story so well! I also loved that it had an academy setting since those are always some of my favorites. I did dock a star because this did feel very slow at times, and it was a loooooong book. There were also a pretty significant amount of typos (a repeated paragraph and a lot of apostrophes where they shouldn’t be), and I struggle to look past more than a few. Despite that, I’ll definitely be reading the next book when it comes out!
November 17, 2024
To say that I loved this book would be an understatement, I was indescribably hooked on this storyline!
The pacing, the character development, and the world building were extremely well executed. Immersing yourself into a whole new fantasy world, it can be difficult at times to parse through. Just not here… I really appreciated that there wasn’t an immediate history dump. You learn about the history and the unforgiving world of the Tide Raiders overtime.
****Inner Thoughts/Feelings
The enemies to semi lovers progression has me in chokehold. The tension and the inner turmoil you see in these characters kept me guessing. I also loved that even though this is primarily from our lovely Merena’s POV you can still sense the conflict and confusion from Agni.
Not only would I recommend this book to a friend, but I will be FORCING them to read so that they can also endure the wait, as I do for the 2nd book.
The pacing, the character development, and the world building were extremely well executed. Immersing yourself into a whole new fantasy world, it can be difficult at times to parse through. Just not here… I really appreciated that there wasn’t an immediate history dump. You learn about the history and the unforgiving world of the Tide Raiders overtime.
****Inner Thoughts/Feelings
The enemies to semi lovers progression has me in chokehold. The tension and the inner turmoil you see in these characters kept me guessing. I also loved that even though this is primarily from our lovely Merena’s POV you can still sense the conflict and confusion from Agni.
Not only would I recommend this book to a friend, but I will be FORCING them to read so that they can also endure the wait, as I do for the 2nd book.
May 2, 2025
This was a book that, when I finished it, I just sort of sat in a daze. IT IS SO GODSDAMNED GOOD!
From the first page, you are pulled in by these young women getting into mischief, and their leader doing what any good captain does: Looking out for their crew. These women are all so distinct, and you want to be in the middle of it with them! The epic fantasy world builds up in a very organic way, with no confusion, and a lot of fun.
Merena is our FMC, and a new Captain of an all-female crew, in a world of Tide Raiders who were mostly sacrifices that were saved by the Drowned Gods. She, unlike most of her peers, is a castaway and a bast4rd, with no recollection of who or where she came from. Which makes her an outcast among the Raiders.
This is set in an academy of Tide Raiders, where they take classes in history, combat, strategies, etc., and Level 8 Captains compete against others from the different lands (North, South, East, West) in a series of pillar trials, for a chance of joining a Lord's fleet. Enter, Captain Olsson Agni, a broody, cocky, fellow elemental young man who seems to exist purely to torment Merena.
In this world, every Raider has magic abilities ("affinities") that are unique to them. Merena is an elemental who can freeze water; Agni is an elemental who can create fire. They get along about as well as that sounds they would!
I absolutely loved the dynamic between Merena and her crew, and Agni with his! The chemistry between Merena and Agni is also off-the-charts, though they very much hate one another from start to finish - This is a true Enemies-to-Lovers story.
Agni is from the south, where they apparently speak Latin, and so many of his lines spoken in "his foreign tongue" are swoon-worthy. This is made even better by the fact that Merena has no idea what he is saying and that pisses her off even more. I literally laughed out loud several times while reading this, it was such a joy!
I also nearly cried at a couple of parts, particularly one involving the aftermath of their first pillar (Iykyk). These characters have increasing depth and growth as you turn each page.
This is getting long, and I feel like I could go on forever! No surprise, I'm sure, this was a 5-star read for me. I am very, very eagerly awaiting the second book, as I need more Agni!!
5 Stars
2 Heat (Some steamy kisses)
From the first page, you are pulled in by these young women getting into mischief, and their leader doing what any good captain does: Looking out for their crew. These women are all so distinct, and you want to be in the middle of it with them! The epic fantasy world builds up in a very organic way, with no confusion, and a lot of fun.
Merena is our FMC, and a new Captain of an all-female crew, in a world of Tide Raiders who were mostly sacrifices that were saved by the Drowned Gods. She, unlike most of her peers, is a castaway and a bast4rd, with no recollection of who or where she came from. Which makes her an outcast among the Raiders.
This is set in an academy of Tide Raiders, where they take classes in history, combat, strategies, etc., and Level 8 Captains compete against others from the different lands (North, South, East, West) in a series of pillar trials, for a chance of joining a Lord's fleet. Enter, Captain Olsson Agni, a broody, cocky, fellow elemental young man who seems to exist purely to torment Merena.
In this world, every Raider has magic abilities ("affinities") that are unique to them. Merena is an elemental who can freeze water; Agni is an elemental who can create fire. They get along about as well as that sounds they would!
I absolutely loved the dynamic between Merena and her crew, and Agni with his! The chemistry between Merena and Agni is also off-the-charts, though they very much hate one another from start to finish - This is a true Enemies-to-Lovers story.
Agni is from the south, where they apparently speak Latin, and so many of his lines spoken in "his foreign tongue" are swoon-worthy. This is made even better by the fact that Merena has no idea what he is saying and that pisses her off even more. I literally laughed out loud several times while reading this, it was such a joy!
I also nearly cried at a couple of parts, particularly one involving the aftermath of their first pillar (Iykyk). These characters have increasing depth and growth as you turn each page.
This is getting long, and I feel like I could go on forever! No surprise, I'm sure, this was a 5-star read for me. I am very, very eagerly awaiting the second book, as I need more Agni!!
5 Stars
2 Heat (Some steamy kisses)
January 7, 2025
Did I finish this 669 page bad boy in under 48 hours? Yes, yes I did. Because the plot kept developing and the enemies really hated each other while also becoming attracted to each other and I could not. stop. reading. And the plot twists were SO unexpected and good! There was excellent foreshadowing throughout so I had a lot of ah-ha moments and already have theories for what may happen in the next book. Also the female friendship is INCREDIBLE. I love Merena (FMC) and her crew so very much!
I actually hated the MMC for a while and was struggling to understand how he could become redeemable, but he did! Slowly during the last third of the book, the bigger picture and his actions start making sense; even one of the nicknames that seems terrible actually has an endearing reason he calls her it! I would say there is a mild bully trope and that not my typical cup of tea, but because of how things progress, I ended up still enjoying the romance. There is tension and some intense kissing, but this book is low spice.
Death’s Kiss is book 1 of a series and ends with many unanswered questions, but all important characters are physically well. I am excitedly anticipating the second book!
Read if you like:
Single first person female POV
Darkkk academia
Deadly trials
Sea raider/sea monsters/ pirate vibes
Female friendship/Found family
Enemies-to-lovers
Individual magical affinities
To note: this is definitely on the darker side of fantasy so please check the content warnings. Our FMC is treated cruelly by many people and there is on page violence.
Overall a phenomenal read and I will absolutely be continuing the series!!
I actually hated the MMC for a while and was struggling to understand how he could become redeemable, but he did! Slowly during the last third of the book, the bigger picture and his actions start making sense; even one of the nicknames that seems terrible actually has an endearing reason he calls her it! I would say there is a mild bully trope and that not my typical cup of tea, but because of how things progress, I ended up still enjoying the romance. There is tension and some intense kissing, but this book is low spice.
Death’s Kiss is book 1 of a series and ends with many unanswered questions, but all important characters are physically well. I am excitedly anticipating the second book!
Read if you like:
Single first person female POV
Darkkk academia
Deadly trials
Sea raider/sea monsters/ pirate vibes
Female friendship/Found family
Enemies-to-lovers
Individual magical affinities
To note: this is definitely on the darker side of fantasy so please check the content warnings. Our FMC is treated cruelly by many people and there is on page violence.
Overall a phenomenal read and I will absolutely be continuing the series!!
May 15, 2025
The best book I will read all year. Picked it up and could not put it down once I started reading. Can’t wait to re-read this book several times while anxiously waiting for book #2!
April 21, 2025
This was a fun ride with a badass female crew that I enjoyed. There were things here & there that threw me, but overall this is a super cool story with interesting characters & I think is going to be one of those “book 1 is setup for book 2 to rule” situations. I think I’m gonna go with 3.5 so rounding up to 4 here⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. Plot, pros, & cons below 👇🏼
PLOT
Merena was sacrificed to the seas by parents she can’t remember from a life she doesn’t know. However, the sea deemed her worthy & she began her training as a Raider sans memories. During her years of training at school she is often treated as dirt under one’s shoe & subjected to unique punishments & challenges. But over the years she has scrapped, fought, & outsmarted her way to the prestigious position of Captain, as appointed by her crew of 7 fellow women who adore her. But this year, crews from all over the isles are coming to visit to participate in some deadly trials which will reward the winner with the Raider position of their dreams. When the foreign crews arrive, some of them seem to know more about her than she understands possible, & they really hate her for whatever reason. This book has
- Vikings/pirates (to me it felt like it was set in fantasy Iceland)
- badass, smart FMC
- Morally gray & mean af MMC with REAL enemies to lovers potential
- love triangle potential
- deadly trials & academia
- he talks to her in a language she doesn’t know
- girlhood in the best way
- lots of magic types
- a pregame to spice, like there’s the barest inkling & it will def fully happen eventually you can tell but it doesn’t go far
PROS
- I like this setting a lot, it’s different from a lot of books I read & that’s super enjoyable. It may be deadly trials & academia — which aren’t terribly unique as a concept — but it felt different, which I really dig.
- The girl power Sacred 8 crew is honestly everything. I love them, I love their vibe, & I love their love. Like each one of them was individually so cool & also collectors. They felt like they were a real group of friends.
- Merena is a badass & the things she can do with her magic are super unique & fun/terrifyingly cool. I liked her SO MUCH from the jump. She’s flawed but she loves so hard & she’s a tough b who I thoroughly enjoyed the vast majority of the time. “Death’s Kiss” is such a fitting name for this book IYKYK.
- The little glimmers of potential romance were prettttttty satisfying. I also like a solid love triangle quite a bit & we are definitely establishing one this book which excites me.
- If you love a morally gray MMC this one’s for you. He is NOT nice to her but there’s more to him than what everyone sees. Like they don’t like each other at all.
- I liked the southern Raiders having their own language & being able to discretely speak in front of everyone. That was kind of fun (though I wish I didn’t have to turn back to the glossary every time for it).
- I’m interested to learn more about some things we’ve only barely dove into. The TideLords, what raiders actually do, & Merena’s past/her past relationships especially.
CONS
- There was something just a little off about the writing that made things hard to remember or stick for me. I often felt like I was introduced a new thing as if I should know it already, so then I’d go back to see where it was introduced because I must have missed it, only for its description to be a page or 2 later or not really at all. I couldn’t remember affinities by names (lots of names going by first then by last with no consistent pattern as to why) & I wish those were refreshed more often. The world is SUPER interesting but I had a hard time envisioning it often, particularly in the Pillars themselves. There was just something it that made things hard to remember as I read & I don’t often have that problem.
- I think the worldbuilding is a bit clunky & unclear. I think we’re missing a lot of context/why for things which made it hard for me to really immerse myself at times. What ARE raiders? Why do people hate bastards SO much? How does the sacrifice work exactly & why? Who/what is in the realms? Why is the vault so special? What even are TideLords really? There were a lot of key WHY to the story that I was don’t understand.
I will say I am definitely interested in reading book 2! This story has a shit ton of potential & I do feel like book 1 just suffered a bit from series setup syndrome.
⚠️ SPOILERS ⚠️
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
No for real
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
- I will be SUPER annoyed if Merena goes from being super cool & curious to being annoyingly stubborn about her past & refusing to ask questions of others who know more than her when the opportunist present themselves. This is a least favorite FMC trait of mine, & she hinted that they might be her path forward - “so I’m done searching for my past” - & if it is I’ll be extremely frustrated. Merena has proven she is smarter than this & more curious, so I will be severely frustrated if book 2 sees this.
- The kelpie broke my heart & I still don’t even know that I can forgive Agni for it. Idc if it was an accident I feel like branding it after blinding it was needlessly cruel.
- I knew what’s his butt was still a POS but the poison was a fun surprise!
- I’m super excited for a love triangle in book 2 I gotta be honest.
PLOT
Merena was sacrificed to the seas by parents she can’t remember from a life she doesn’t know. However, the sea deemed her worthy & she began her training as a Raider sans memories. During her years of training at school she is often treated as dirt under one’s shoe & subjected to unique punishments & challenges. But over the years she has scrapped, fought, & outsmarted her way to the prestigious position of Captain, as appointed by her crew of 7 fellow women who adore her. But this year, crews from all over the isles are coming to visit to participate in some deadly trials which will reward the winner with the Raider position of their dreams. When the foreign crews arrive, some of them seem to know more about her than she understands possible, & they really hate her for whatever reason. This book has
- Vikings/pirates (to me it felt like it was set in fantasy Iceland)
- badass, smart FMC
- Morally gray & mean af MMC with REAL enemies to lovers potential
- love triangle potential
- deadly trials & academia
- he talks to her in a language she doesn’t know
- girlhood in the best way
- lots of magic types
- a pregame to spice, like there’s the barest inkling & it will def fully happen eventually you can tell but it doesn’t go far
PROS
- I like this setting a lot, it’s different from a lot of books I read & that’s super enjoyable. It may be deadly trials & academia — which aren’t terribly unique as a concept — but it felt different, which I really dig.
- The girl power Sacred 8 crew is honestly everything. I love them, I love their vibe, & I love their love. Like each one of them was individually so cool & also collectors. They felt like they were a real group of friends.
- Merena is a badass & the things she can do with her magic are super unique & fun/terrifyingly cool. I liked her SO MUCH from the jump. She’s flawed but she loves so hard & she’s a tough b who I thoroughly enjoyed the vast majority of the time. “Death’s Kiss” is such a fitting name for this book IYKYK.
- The little glimmers of potential romance were prettttttty satisfying. I also like a solid love triangle quite a bit & we are definitely establishing one this book which excites me.
- If you love a morally gray MMC this one’s for you. He is NOT nice to her but there’s more to him than what everyone sees. Like they don’t like each other at all.
- I liked the southern Raiders having their own language & being able to discretely speak in front of everyone. That was kind of fun (though I wish I didn’t have to turn back to the glossary every time for it).
- I’m interested to learn more about some things we’ve only barely dove into. The TideLords, what raiders actually do, & Merena’s past/her past relationships especially.
CONS
- There was something just a little off about the writing that made things hard to remember or stick for me. I often felt like I was introduced a new thing as if I should know it already, so then I’d go back to see where it was introduced because I must have missed it, only for its description to be a page or 2 later or not really at all. I couldn’t remember affinities by names (lots of names going by first then by last with no consistent pattern as to why) & I wish those were refreshed more often. The world is SUPER interesting but I had a hard time envisioning it often, particularly in the Pillars themselves. There was just something it that made things hard to remember as I read & I don’t often have that problem.
- I think the worldbuilding is a bit clunky & unclear. I think we’re missing a lot of context/why for things which made it hard for me to really immerse myself at times. What ARE raiders? Why do people hate bastards SO much? How does the sacrifice work exactly & why? Who/what is in the realms? Why is the vault so special? What even are TideLords really? There were a lot of key WHY to the story that I was don’t understand.
I will say I am definitely interested in reading book 2! This story has a shit ton of potential & I do feel like book 1 just suffered a bit from series setup syndrome.
⚠️ SPOILERS ⚠️
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
No for real
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
- I will be SUPER annoyed if Merena goes from being super cool & curious to being annoyingly stubborn about her past & refusing to ask questions of others who know more than her when the opportunist present themselves. This is a least favorite FMC trait of mine, & she hinted that they might be her path forward - “so I’m done searching for my past” - & if it is I’ll be extremely frustrated. Merena has proven she is smarter than this & more curious, so I will be severely frustrated if book 2 sees this.
- The kelpie broke my heart & I still don’t even know that I can forgive Agni for it. Idc if it was an accident I feel like branding it after blinding it was needlessly cruel.
- I knew what’s his butt was still a POS but the poison was a fun surprise!
- I’m super excited for a love triangle in book 2 I gotta be honest.
January 14, 2025
⭐️ 5+ 🌶️ 0.5
• Enemies to lovers
• Pirates of the Caribbean meets Fourth Wing meets Goblet of Fire
• Trials and tests
• Who runs the world? GIRLS!
• The hate-flirting of my dreams
• Slow burn
• He falls first
“He’s staring at her with the look of a blind man who’s just glimpsed the sun.”
What is there to say about Death’s Kiss by M.M. Reeves other than chef’s kiss! In a world where fantasy books sometimes feel like they’re generated on a conveyor belt (seriously, how many brooding, dagger-wielding love interests do we need?), Death’s Kiss bursts through the crowd like a rogue pirate ship. It’s a fresh, high-stakes take on dark romantasy, delivering sass, sea spray, and sizzling tension.
Set in a college for raiders—basically Hogwarts meets a pirate ship—this book follows Marena, the badass captain of an all-female crew that can only be described as #SquadGoals. These women are strong, smart, self-sufficient, and funny, with personalities that leap off the page. Marena herself is no-nonsense and takes “boss bitch” to new heights. Seriously, if I were stranded on a deserted island, she’s the one I’d want leading the rescue mission. (Or at least the one to tell me to quit whining and climb the damn coconut tree.)
Enter Olssen Agni, the dark, broody, fire-breathing “prince” of the South Order. This man is the human equivalent of storm clouds—gloomy, dramatic, and just begging to be punched in the face. Marena and Olssen don’t just dislike each other; they loathe each other with the intensity of a thousand suns. And yet, their mutual disdain somehow sizzles with the kind of chemistry that would make even Cupid raise an eyebrow. It’s enemies-to-lovers gold.
The trials these captains face are no walk in the park—they’re intense, edge-of-your-seat spectacles that made me feel like I was right there, clutching my metaphorical cutlass and hoping I wouldn’t die. M.M. Reeves’ descriptions are so vivid, I’m pretty sure I got saltwater in my hair just from reading.
I can’t wait to see what the Tide Raiders have in store for us next. But until then, I’ll just be here, pacing like a sea captain waiting for the tide to turn. Hurry up, M.M. Reeves—I need more of this chaos!
• Enemies to lovers
• Pirates of the Caribbean meets Fourth Wing meets Goblet of Fire
• Trials and tests
• Who runs the world? GIRLS!
• The hate-flirting of my dreams
• Slow burn
• He falls first
“He’s staring at her with the look of a blind man who’s just glimpsed the sun.”
What is there to say about Death’s Kiss by M.M. Reeves other than chef’s kiss! In a world where fantasy books sometimes feel like they’re generated on a conveyor belt (seriously, how many brooding, dagger-wielding love interests do we need?), Death’s Kiss bursts through the crowd like a rogue pirate ship. It’s a fresh, high-stakes take on dark romantasy, delivering sass, sea spray, and sizzling tension.
Set in a college for raiders—basically Hogwarts meets a pirate ship—this book follows Marena, the badass captain of an all-female crew that can only be described as #SquadGoals. These women are strong, smart, self-sufficient, and funny, with personalities that leap off the page. Marena herself is no-nonsense and takes “boss bitch” to new heights. Seriously, if I were stranded on a deserted island, she’s the one I’d want leading the rescue mission. (Or at least the one to tell me to quit whining and climb the damn coconut tree.)
Enter Olssen Agni, the dark, broody, fire-breathing “prince” of the South Order. This man is the human equivalent of storm clouds—gloomy, dramatic, and just begging to be punched in the face. Marena and Olssen don’t just dislike each other; they loathe each other with the intensity of a thousand suns. And yet, their mutual disdain somehow sizzles with the kind of chemistry that would make even Cupid raise an eyebrow. It’s enemies-to-lovers gold.
The trials these captains face are no walk in the park—they’re intense, edge-of-your-seat spectacles that made me feel like I was right there, clutching my metaphorical cutlass and hoping I wouldn’t die. M.M. Reeves’ descriptions are so vivid, I’m pretty sure I got saltwater in my hair just from reading.
I can’t wait to see what the Tide Raiders have in store for us next. But until then, I’ll just be here, pacing like a sea captain waiting for the tide to turn. Hurry up, M.M. Reeves—I need more of this chaos!
January 7, 2025
Death’s Kiss was incredible! I’m beyond honored to be part of the ARC team. Here’s my spoiler-free review:
Set in a captivating world, Death’s Kiss takes us to the Pillar Trials—a high-stakes competition triggered by the mysterious appearance of the Vault. The trials pit the captains of the Cardinal Orders (North, South, East, and West) against each other, with the victor earning a coveted boon and the top choice of a prestigious career.
The story begins with Merena Boreas, our fierce FMC. A castaway and a bastard, Merena has defied all odds to become the captain of the Cardinal North, commanding an all-female crew. Eager to break free from her station and secure a better future, she enters the trials. For the first time, they are set to take place on her home turf—an unusual circumstance caused by the Vault's early appearance.
But the competition is anything but easy. Eight captains vie for victory, including the enigmatic Captain of the South, Olsson Agni. Beautiful yet insufferable, Agni seems determined to make Merena’s life a living nightmare. He is brutally mean and ensures she and everyone know how vile he thinks she is. As the trials unfold, Merena faces not only the hatred of her opponents but also the disdain of her superiors, who dislike her because she is an unwanted bastard (and, in my opinion, because she is badass.
Yet, as we journey through the trials, it becomes clear that Merena is far more than she appears—and so is Agni.
M.M. Reeves masterfully delivers a story brimming with action, bravery, and self-discovery. The bonds between Merena and her crew show true sisterhood and loyalty, while the tension between Merena and Agni is electric. Their slow-burn dynamic, peppered with sharp banter and Agni’s cryptic truths spoken in another language, is totally captivating.
If you love found family, high-stakes trials, and characters who brave the odds, Death’s Kiss is the book for you. The release date is January 7—mark your calendars!
Set in a captivating world, Death’s Kiss takes us to the Pillar Trials—a high-stakes competition triggered by the mysterious appearance of the Vault. The trials pit the captains of the Cardinal Orders (North, South, East, and West) against each other, with the victor earning a coveted boon and the top choice of a prestigious career.
The story begins with Merena Boreas, our fierce FMC. A castaway and a bastard, Merena has defied all odds to become the captain of the Cardinal North, commanding an all-female crew. Eager to break free from her station and secure a better future, she enters the trials. For the first time, they are set to take place on her home turf—an unusual circumstance caused by the Vault's early appearance.
But the competition is anything but easy. Eight captains vie for victory, including the enigmatic Captain of the South, Olsson Agni. Beautiful yet insufferable, Agni seems determined to make Merena’s life a living nightmare. He is brutally mean and ensures she and everyone know how vile he thinks she is. As the trials unfold, Merena faces not only the hatred of her opponents but also the disdain of her superiors, who dislike her because she is an unwanted bastard (and, in my opinion, because she is badass.
Yet, as we journey through the trials, it becomes clear that Merena is far more than she appears—and so is Agni.
M.M. Reeves masterfully delivers a story brimming with action, bravery, and self-discovery. The bonds between Merena and her crew show true sisterhood and loyalty, while the tension between Merena and Agni is electric. Their slow-burn dynamic, peppered with sharp banter and Agni’s cryptic truths spoken in another language, is totally captivating.
If you love found family, high-stakes trials, and characters who brave the odds, Death’s Kiss is the book for you. The release date is January 7—mark your calendars!
April 6, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Thank you to the author and The Nerd Family for gifting me an e-book in exchange for my honest review.
I thought the overall concept and storyline for this book was quite intriguing. There is a lot of mystery around the female main character Merena’s history. I also really liked the male main character Agni.
I did find that the pacing was a bit off for me. And given that it is a long book it took me a while to get through it. It did pick up a bit in the second half and my attention was captivated during the 4 trials that occur. I do, however, wish that the world building was a bit more clear at times. This is only book 1 in the series so things may become more clear with the subsequent books.
You may enjoy this book if you like enemies to lovers, elemental magic, found family, and trials.
Thank you to the author and The Nerd Family for gifting me an e-book in exchange for my honest review.
I thought the overall concept and storyline for this book was quite intriguing. There is a lot of mystery around the female main character Merena’s history. I also really liked the male main character Agni.
I did find that the pacing was a bit off for me. And given that it is a long book it took me a while to get through it. It did pick up a bit in the second half and my attention was captivated during the 4 trials that occur. I do, however, wish that the world building was a bit more clear at times. This is only book 1 in the series so things may become more clear with the subsequent books.
You may enjoy this book if you like enemies to lovers, elemental magic, found family, and trials.
April 16, 2025
Pirate training , trials, world building, found family, a bad ass FMC, and a scorching amount of tension? Yes please!
I fell in love the Merena right away, she really stood out as a strong FMC and I loved her tenacity. Throughout the book she's clearly been through a lot in her past and overcame it all to be captain and lead her raiders and earn their upmost respect. And enter the found family, with her crew they are a BA group of women.
The trials in this book were unlike any I've ever read. They were in depth and well thought out and really tide into what it means to be a raider. I loved the mythical creatures that showed up in them as well.
This is a true slow burn, and the tension was scorching! I live for that. Angi, the MMC, speaks the most tempting words in another language and Merena never knows what he's actually saying but thankfully as the reader you know, and it's everything!
I will say this book was definitely a first book in a series, you have to build the world and the characters to set up for the rest and I cannot wait to see what it to come with this series.
Thank you to the NerdFam and M.M. reeves for this gifted copy to review. I will definitely be on the lookout for book 2.
I fell in love the Merena right away, she really stood out as a strong FMC and I loved her tenacity. Throughout the book she's clearly been through a lot in her past and overcame it all to be captain and lead her raiders and earn their upmost respect. And enter the found family, with her crew they are a BA group of women.
The trials in this book were unlike any I've ever read. They were in depth and well thought out and really tide into what it means to be a raider. I loved the mythical creatures that showed up in them as well.
This is a true slow burn, and the tension was scorching! I live for that. Angi, the MMC, speaks the most tempting words in another language and Merena never knows what he's actually saying but thankfully as the reader you know, and it's everything!
I will say this book was definitely a first book in a series, you have to build the world and the characters to set up for the rest and I cannot wait to see what it to come with this series.
Thank you to the NerdFam and M.M. reeves for this gifted copy to review. I will definitely be on the lookout for book 2.
January 13, 2025
Move over cowboys and hockey players - pirates have entered the chat.
The world of the Tide Raiders is a dark and unforgiving place - full of unique magic, deadly trials, loyal pirate babes and of course, hot captains. But under the surface this story is about so much more, and it was absolutely beautiful.
“Let them hate, so long as they fear.”
My girl Merena is in the business of overcoming and I loved watching her rage against everything that tried to hold her down. Which felt like literally everything. But while I loved her strength, it was her raw and broken moments that made me respect her the most. And what’s even better is that with Merena comes her crew and their unshakable bond. They are fiercely loyal and build each other up in a world set on tearing them down at every turn. I tabbed so many moments between them, especially Merena and Kleio, that had me emotional. From tears in my eyes to actually laughing out loud - the sacred eight had me ready to pledge my loyalty to Captain Boreas too.
“For good or bad, our futures will be tethered as one. Until the tides take us home”
And to top it all, we get a perfect slowww burn. Tension, bullying, jealousy, and of course some sneaky sweetness had me melting for Captain Agni. Every time Merena peeled back one of his layers I fell for him a little more and found myself blind to all his toxic behavior by the end.
“Futuere mihi. Vos vultus sicut peccatum.” - “Fuck me. You look like sin.”
This is set up to be quite an epic journey and I can’t wait for the next installment. I have questions and theories… and some worries 😅 but I’ll follow Merena til the end.
Tropes include:
•Enemies to lovers to ?
•Slow burn
•Deadly trials
•Elemental magic
•Fmc with Elsa vibes
•Found family
•Academy setting
The world of the Tide Raiders is a dark and unforgiving place - full of unique magic, deadly trials, loyal pirate babes and of course, hot captains. But under the surface this story is about so much more, and it was absolutely beautiful.
“Let them hate, so long as they fear.”
My girl Merena is in the business of overcoming and I loved watching her rage against everything that tried to hold her down. Which felt like literally everything. But while I loved her strength, it was her raw and broken moments that made me respect her the most. And what’s even better is that with Merena comes her crew and their unshakable bond. They are fiercely loyal and build each other up in a world set on tearing them down at every turn. I tabbed so many moments between them, especially Merena and Kleio, that had me emotional. From tears in my eyes to actually laughing out loud - the sacred eight had me ready to pledge my loyalty to Captain Boreas too.
“For good or bad, our futures will be tethered as one. Until the tides take us home”
And to top it all, we get a perfect slowww burn. Tension, bullying, jealousy, and of course some sneaky sweetness had me melting for Captain Agni. Every time Merena peeled back one of his layers I fell for him a little more and found myself blind to all his toxic behavior by the end.
“Futuere mihi. Vos vultus sicut peccatum.” - “Fuck me. You look like sin.”
This is set up to be quite an epic journey and I can’t wait for the next installment. I have questions and theories… and some worries 😅 but I’ll follow Merena til the end.
Tropes include:
•Enemies to lovers to ?
•Slow burn
•Deadly trials
•Elemental magic
•Fmc with Elsa vibes
•Found family
•Academy setting
April 6, 2025
“In your fucking dreams,” I hiss up at him, my lips twisting in disgust. “Every night,” Agni deadpans.
THIS BOOOOOOOK!!! I have so many questions and I’m genuinely still reeling from the revelations in those last chapters! I really REALLY enjoyed this book. When I first picked it up it was looking like a 4 star read as I was really enjoying it, but wasn’t entirely sure where it was going to go. BUT the pacing and the trials and interactions between the found family absolutely made this book incredible. I am so fully invested in this journey and need the next book ASAP!
The last 15 or so chapters had me in an absolutely chokehold and I stayed up until 2am to finish this book. I originally picked up this book as I thought it would be a ‘pirates enemies to lovers’ but I stayed for the deadly trials that felt like you were in it, the found family in the crew Merena has fostered, and Merena (fmc) herself. Honestly the enemies to lovers (??) and breadcrumbs of tension we get throughout the book were just bonuses on top of the story!
The best way I can sell this book is pirates x dark academy setting x goblet of fire (Harry Potter) type trials.
I loved this one and can’t wait to see where this story goes next!!
THIS BOOOOOOOK!!! I have so many questions and I’m genuinely still reeling from the revelations in those last chapters! I really REALLY enjoyed this book. When I first picked it up it was looking like a 4 star read as I was really enjoying it, but wasn’t entirely sure where it was going to go. BUT the pacing and the trials and interactions between the found family absolutely made this book incredible. I am so fully invested in this journey and need the next book ASAP!
The last 15 or so chapters had me in an absolutely chokehold and I stayed up until 2am to finish this book. I originally picked up this book as I thought it would be a ‘pirates enemies to lovers’ but I stayed for the deadly trials that felt like you were in it, the found family in the crew Merena has fostered, and Merena (fmc) herself. Honestly the enemies to lovers (??) and breadcrumbs of tension we get throughout the book were just bonuses on top of the story!
The best way I can sell this book is pirates x dark academy setting x goblet of fire (Harry Potter) type trials.
I loved this one and can’t wait to see where this story goes next!!
January 6, 2025
ARC Reader Book Review 🤍
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
(But this literally deserves ALL the ⭐️s)
🫑
OH SWEET DEPTHS-
This was such a good mf read 👏🏽
I don’t even know where to start, It was like-
One Piece meets Fourth Wing. So good!!
The bully romance that will have you in SWOON CITY, the kick your feet up giggling BANTER 👏🏽 The banter was bantering w/ literally almost every character, very comedic, but still kept that high stakes energy. I was so entertained & I fr loved the camaraderie within the crews, esp my girls 🫶🏽 Who will def be having you wanting to be apart of the crew ‘cause each character was so personal. Such a great ending too, although a cliffhanger it had me 🥹🤍 I’m highly looking forward to Book 2 & the rest of the series!!
One Piece ☠️ vibes-
It’s as if The Marines (Tide Raiders) went through trials to achieve the One Piece (The Vault) w/o having to search for crew members, but not lacking in the character department in the least-
Devil Fruit (Affinity) w/o any downsides, other than different usefulness. It was fr givinggg 👏🏽
“🙏🏽Me”
WHEWWWW IYKYK.
This. Was. A. READ. I’m already obsessed.
Anything below a 5⭐️ is just mutiny.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
(But this literally deserves ALL the ⭐️s)
🫑
OH SWEET DEPTHS-
This was such a good mf read 👏🏽
I don’t even know where to start, It was like-
One Piece meets Fourth Wing. So good!!
The bully romance that will have you in SWOON CITY, the kick your feet up giggling BANTER 👏🏽 The banter was bantering w/ literally almost every character, very comedic, but still kept that high stakes energy. I was so entertained & I fr loved the camaraderie within the crews, esp my girls 🫶🏽 Who will def be having you wanting to be apart of the crew ‘cause each character was so personal. Such a great ending too, although a cliffhanger it had me 🥹🤍 I’m highly looking forward to Book 2 & the rest of the series!!
One Piece ☠️ vibes-
It’s as if The Marines (Tide Raiders) went through trials to achieve the One Piece (The Vault) w/o having to search for crew members, but not lacking in the character department in the least-
Devil Fruit (Affinity) w/o any downsides, other than different usefulness. It was fr givinggg 👏🏽
“🙏🏽Me”
WHEWWWW IYKYK.
This. Was. A. READ. I’m already obsessed.
Anything below a 5⭐️ is just mutiny.
April 18, 2025
I am willing to do UNSPEAKABLE things to get my hands on the next book.
Not only did I love this book, I really really loved the characters. Merena (despite the fact that this girl is oblivious AF about someone’s OBVIOUS devotion) was a strong and determined FMC, with multiple layers that I felt really drawn to. Her crew has an incredible dynamic, and I felt like I had a clear understanding of everyone. Their loyalty to Merena healed something deep within me. And it goes without saying; Captain Agni - you’re literally just my type, please insult me any day, please send me a message in a bottle.
There’s very clearly a larger plot being built, and I cannot WAIT to see how it unfolds. I do not wish to wait another second without diving back into this world and story.
**HINT: DEFINITELY go back to the translations in the beginning of the book for the phrases. I melted.
Thank you so much to the author and Nerd Fam for this ARC 🤍
Not only did I love this book, I really really loved the characters. Merena (despite the fact that this girl is oblivious AF about someone’s OBVIOUS devotion) was a strong and determined FMC, with multiple layers that I felt really drawn to. Her crew has an incredible dynamic, and I felt like I had a clear understanding of everyone. Their loyalty to Merena healed something deep within me. And it goes without saying; Captain Agni - you’re literally just my type, please insult me any day, please send me a message in a bottle.
There’s very clearly a larger plot being built, and I cannot WAIT to see how it unfolds. I do not wish to wait another second without diving back into this world and story.
**HINT: DEFINITELY go back to the translations in the beginning of the book for the phrases. I melted.
Thank you so much to the author and Nerd Fam for this ARC 🤍
June 27, 2025
4.75 - I loved the change of pace compared to my typical fantasy books. The banter, found family, and storytelling hit the spot. Of course, trials are one of my favorite tropes so that was a great start. I’m curious to see how the series continues. I didn’t like some of the FMC’s narrow mindedness at the end but I’m hoping she continues to grow and it doesn’t linger too far into the next book. If she doesn’t hold all of her past friendships or relationships to the same level, I will revolt.
July 8, 2025
4.5 I loved her. I need the next one now
April 20, 2025
This book was unputdownable! (Yeah I know that isn't a word)
I stayed up till 4 AM to finish this even though l had a mild eye infection lol.
From deadly trials in the tumultuous ocean to erased memories and curses and prophecies, this book was a wild ride!
And don't even get me started on the sizzling heat between the two rival captains with opposing elemental powers!
The FMC was such a badass!
And the relationship between her and her crew of equally badass women was something to envy.
The MMC was a truly questionable character and I just couldn't understand what his problem was! He's an a$$hole, no doubt.
But..here's just something about him..
It felt like the world building needed a bit of work, and sometimes, descriptions of scenes were hard to comprehend, especially in the trials.
In my opinion, I'm excellent at understanding the world building in Fantasy books, but I think a beginner would find it a bit difficult, if this was the first book they read.
If not for this issue, I think this would be a 5 star read!
This is an ARC review ♡
I stayed up till 4 AM to finish this even though l had a mild eye infection lol.
From deadly trials in the tumultuous ocean to erased memories and curses and prophecies, this book was a wild ride!
And don't even get me started on the sizzling heat between the two rival captains with opposing elemental powers!
The FMC was such a badass!
And the relationship between her and her crew of equally badass women was something to envy.
The MMC was a truly questionable character and I just couldn't understand what his problem was! He's an a$$hole, no doubt.
But..here's just something about him..
It felt like the world building needed a bit of work, and sometimes, descriptions of scenes were hard to comprehend, especially in the trials.
In my opinion, I'm excellent at understanding the world building in Fantasy books, but I think a beginner would find it a bit difficult, if this was the first book they read.
If not for this issue, I think this would be a 5 star read!
This is an ARC review ♡
July 26, 2025
This book had so many plot holes and problems I don’t even know where to start.
First, there were too many characters and too many unnecessary names of things that had no actual impact or significance to the story.
Second, the world building was almost non-existent like I had no idea about the world or why she wanted to leave or why her second wanted to find her half sister? Or who the tide lords are? What is the background? What about the falling stars? What was going on with that? Why did the leaders have to be pulled away from the third trial? Or anything else for that matter. And then she sees her memories and after seeing 1 vision she decides she doesn’t need any more?? Like um what??? A HUGE part of this book was her not knowing her identity and now she is just fine with it?? Especially after learning she did something terrible? Like ignorance is bliss. Also these trials were supposed to be life and death but felt more like fun games rather than trials. Oh and in the last one she just decides to waste time and have a make out session?? Like wasn’t the whole point to be the first one to get to the vault?
The only reason this book stayed afloat was because it was true enemies to lovers and I did enjoy that aspect. I honestly really enjoyed the enemies to lovers plot and a hint of a love triangle for the next book. I also did enjoy the sisterhood aspect and the relationships that she had with her crew. They would do anything for her and I loved that.
Other than that, I am just left confused. The ex-boyfriend of her second tried to kill her? Her ex-fling knows Agni? So he should also have known her? What about the prophecy? Why did the Cavarina or whatever her name just kiss her? Like she just said Agni would kill her and that she didn’t know what was going on and then kissed her and we didn’t hear about her again?? Like what? What did merena do to Agni that he said she should grovel for forgiveness? Who are her parents and why did she have no memories? why do these kids get sacrificed and end up here? How do the academics work? Like why was the vault so important to them/to just pick which crew to join? What is the goal? This book just felt all over the place. I feel like it had the potential to be a lot better but I just couldn’t get over the plot being everywhere.
With that being said, I think the concepts in this book like academia, powers, trials, enemies-to-lovers, sisterhoods and crews were lots of fun and I feel like if I had more background this could 100% be a 4 or 5 star read. I hope this wasn’t too mean I just wish I had more background and building on certain aspects.
First, there were too many characters and too many unnecessary names of things that had no actual impact or significance to the story.
Second, the world building was almost non-existent like I had no idea about the world or why she wanted to leave or why her second wanted to find her half sister? Or who the tide lords are? What is the background? What about the falling stars? What was going on with that? Why did the leaders have to be pulled away from the third trial? Or anything else for that matter. And then she sees her memories and after seeing 1 vision she decides she doesn’t need any more?? Like um what??? A HUGE part of this book was her not knowing her identity and now she is just fine with it?? Especially after learning she did something terrible? Like ignorance is bliss. Also these trials were supposed to be life and death but felt more like fun games rather than trials. Oh and in the last one she just decides to waste time and have a make out session?? Like wasn’t the whole point to be the first one to get to the vault?
The only reason this book stayed afloat was because it was true enemies to lovers and I did enjoy that aspect. I honestly really enjoyed the enemies to lovers plot and a hint of a love triangle for the next book. I also did enjoy the sisterhood aspect and the relationships that she had with her crew. They would do anything for her and I loved that.
Other than that, I am just left confused. The ex-boyfriend of her second tried to kill her? Her ex-fling knows Agni? So he should also have known her? What about the prophecy? Why did the Cavarina or whatever her name just kiss her? Like she just said Agni would kill her and that she didn’t know what was going on and then kissed her and we didn’t hear about her again?? Like what? What did merena do to Agni that he said she should grovel for forgiveness? Who are her parents and why did she have no memories? why do these kids get sacrificed and end up here? How do the academics work? Like why was the vault so important to them/to just pick which crew to join? What is the goal? This book just felt all over the place. I feel like it had the potential to be a lot better but I just couldn’t get over the plot being everywhere.
With that being said, I think the concepts in this book like academia, powers, trials, enemies-to-lovers, sisterhoods and crews were lots of fun and I feel like if I had more background this could 100% be a 4 or 5 star read. I hope this wasn’t too mean I just wish I had more background and building on certain aspects.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2025
I’m not really into pirates but this book was amazing. It has a nice twist on pirates who have magical abilities. There is quite a lot of interesting world building but it is spread out so it’s not overwhelming. The world is very fascinating and I cannot wait to learn more about it. I also love that the title reflects an important scene in the book.
If you love strong a FMC and MMC then this one is for you. I absolutely love Merena Boreas and Olssen Agni. Merena is fiery and strong but takes no crap. Agni is broody and arrogant with a soft interior. They have an enemies to lovers (not really full lovers in this book)/rivals/bully type of relationship. I also love how much they love their crews. That’s a found family type of relationship. Especially Merena, she is super protective over her crew and is willing do to anything for them. Her little Sirens 🥰
Speaking of Agni, he also speaks in a Southern language which he uses to taunt and tease Merena. There is a translation guide in the front of the book. These scene are some of my favorite! Which leads me to my favorite line that Agni teaches Merena that translates to “Let them hate, so long as they fear!”
All of the Kelpie scenes made me feel so many things. The first one made me super mad. The second scene shocked me. And the last one made me sad. I absolutely loved how they connected at various times and were super important for learning about who Agni is.
Tropes:
Enemies/rivals to lovers
Found family
Magical abilities/creatures
Three trials/competitions
Pirates
Slow burn
Angst
He falls first
High stakes
If you love strong a FMC and MMC then this one is for you. I absolutely love Merena Boreas and Olssen Agni. Merena is fiery and strong but takes no crap. Agni is broody and arrogant with a soft interior. They have an enemies to lovers (not really full lovers in this book)/rivals/bully type of relationship. I also love how much they love their crews. That’s a found family type of relationship. Especially Merena, she is super protective over her crew and is willing do to anything for them. Her little Sirens 🥰
Speaking of Agni, he also speaks in a Southern language which he uses to taunt and tease Merena. There is a translation guide in the front of the book. These scene are some of my favorite! Which leads me to my favorite line that Agni teaches Merena that translates to “Let them hate, so long as they fear!”
All of the Kelpie scenes made me feel so many things. The first one made me super mad. The second scene shocked me. And the last one made me sad. I absolutely loved how they connected at various times and were super important for learning about who Agni is.
Tropes:
Enemies/rivals to lovers
Found family
Magical abilities/creatures
Three trials/competitions
Pirates
Slow burn
Angst
He falls first
High stakes
December 6, 2025
This was such a unique and refreshing read in the romantasy genre and I absolutely loved it.
There is a bit of world building in this and quite a few characters and terms to learn. If you read in this genre often as well as fantasy it should not be too difficult to grasp but may seem a bit much for a reader who is newer to this genre. The plot was so addicting and so unique while also having some of our favorite tropes such as slow burn, deadly trials, and enemies to lovers. The pirate-ish academy part is this book was so cool and something I didn’t know I needed in my life lol.
Now as for the romance and the characters, I would say we are in for a looong slow burn with this one lol. The enemies to lover part is going to probably take at least 2-3 books and personally I love that lol. The banter and tension between our main characters was so fun to read and I cannot wait to get more of them. With the way this one ended I am actually so excited to see what happens in the next book with a possible love triangle situation👀
As for the characters I absolutely loved our FMC she was a bad bitch and so were her entire crew. There wasn’t a single side character I didn’t love and I can’t wait to get more of them as well. And as for our FMC, he was such a sarcastic asshole, borderline bully, who gave us small glimpses of who he actually is underneath and I can’t wait ti get more of him. I hope we get his POV in future books because I need it.
There were so many small clues and pieces she gave throughout too about who our FMC actually is and some I guessed, but still have so many questions. I am very interested to see what we find out in the next book.
The only negative thing I have to say about this book was that it did seem very long and drag at some points. But overall an amazing book!
December 10, 2024
⭐️5+ 🌶️0.5
Death’s Kiss is going to be the next big Romantasy, I can feel it. This book was a masterpiece and I devoured every crumb like it was my last meal. This book actually kept me awake at night because I was thinking about what would happen next.
This had all the vibes of Goblet of Fire and Fourth Wing, but make it Pirates (!!! loved it, no notes)
Merena gave off BIG Mannon energy—I want to be a part of her crew. Speaking of her crew, they had me laughing out loud, crying, snickering, etc. right along with them. An unforgettable girl gang that I NEED more of.
Olsson Agni had me in a chokehold from the second he sauntered off that ship. Their HATE relationship had me rereading sections just to feel the angst again.
My only note is that I was a bit confused in some spots and had to go back and refresh my memory and reread some things. Especially when it came to keeping the TideLords and preceptors straight. I think that was mainly me being so sucked into the book that I didn’t quite absorb all the little details the first time.
You all need to read this book and make some fanart ASAP. I BEG OF YOU. I would pay real American dollars for more fan art of these characters.
I also need people to talk about this book with because it’s consuming my every thought. The book hangover is real. Please read this book January 7th and message me about it to release me from this solitary anguish.
To M. M. Reeves. Thank you for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review. But for real I’ll be stalking your page and begging (see what I did there) for book 2.
Death’s Kiss is going to be the next big Romantasy, I can feel it. This book was a masterpiece and I devoured every crumb like it was my last meal. This book actually kept me awake at night because I was thinking about what would happen next.
This had all the vibes of Goblet of Fire and Fourth Wing, but make it Pirates (!!! loved it, no notes)
Merena gave off BIG Mannon energy—I want to be a part of her crew. Speaking of her crew, they had me laughing out loud, crying, snickering, etc. right along with them. An unforgettable girl gang that I NEED more of.
Olsson Agni had me in a chokehold from the second he sauntered off that ship. Their HATE relationship had me rereading sections just to feel the angst again.
My only note is that I was a bit confused in some spots and had to go back and refresh my memory and reread some things. Especially when it came to keeping the TideLords and preceptors straight. I think that was mainly me being so sucked into the book that I didn’t quite absorb all the little details the first time.
You all need to read this book and make some fanart ASAP. I BEG OF YOU. I would pay real American dollars for more fan art of these characters.
I also need people to talk about this book with because it’s consuming my every thought. The book hangover is real. Please read this book January 7th and message me about it to release me from this solitary anguish.
To M. M. Reeves. Thank you for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review. But for real I’ll be stalking your page and begging (see what I did there) for book 2.
February 26, 2025
How does this not have more ratings yet?!
This is a new favourite of 2025, I was so entertained I can't wait for book 2 omg. It's so hard to find a book where I like both the main characters, writing, plot, and side characters but this ticked literally everything I needed and was craving. Slowburn enemies-to-lovers (no insta lust!!) with actual hate for each other. Agni and Boreas kinda gave me cruel prince vibes, Agni was such an aristocratic asshole lmao I love it. I need their backstory asap. I also love how this was single pov, I hate being in a man's head, I love seeing Merena's perception of him instead, it keeps the tension and mystery much higher.
Only reason this wasn't a five star was because I was a bit confused with the world building and how they wash up on the island. Maybe this was just me, but I found the whole bastard child, landmasses, and realms a bit too vague. And also sometimes there was a bit too much smirking and I feel like when its overused the writing feels more juvenile (only for those specific moments, other than that I loved the writing!)
This is a new favourite of 2025, I was so entertained I can't wait for book 2 omg. It's so hard to find a book where I like both the main characters, writing, plot, and side characters but this ticked literally everything I needed and was craving. Slowburn enemies-to-lovers (no insta lust!!) with actual hate for each other. Agni and Boreas kinda gave me cruel prince vibes, Agni was such an aristocratic asshole lmao I love it. I need their backstory asap. I also love how this was single pov, I hate being in a man's head, I love seeing Merena's perception of him instead, it keeps the tension and mystery much higher.
Only reason this wasn't a five star was because I was a bit confused with the world building and how they wash up on the island. Maybe this was just me, but I found the whole bastard child, landmasses, and realms a bit too vague. And also sometimes there was a bit too much smirking and I feel like when its overused the writing feels more juvenile (only for those specific moments, other than that I loved the writing!)
December 11, 2024
Death’s Kiss is ✨chef’s kiss✨
Merena Boreas is a badass in her own right. And Olsson Agni my god I don’t have the words.
This is an epic Romantacy that will consume your every thought. The world building is second to none. The character development, the plot and the twists, the BANTER. I NEED book 2 like I need air to breathe. I truly did not want this book to end.
🔱It has enemies to kind of lovers? TBD (you’ll know what I mean)
❄️Deadly trials
🔱morally grey MMC
❄️female girl gang
🔱mythical creaters
Death’s Kiss is masterpiece and I can not wait to see what the rest of this series holds!
Thank you Thank you Thank you M. M. Reeves for gifting me this ARC it was a pleasure to step into the world of the Cardinal North.
Merena Boreas is a badass in her own right. And Olsson Agni my god I don’t have the words.
This is an epic Romantacy that will consume your every thought. The world building is second to none. The character development, the plot and the twists, the BANTER. I NEED book 2 like I need air to breathe. I truly did not want this book to end.
🔱It has enemies to kind of lovers? TBD (you’ll know what I mean)
❄️Deadly trials
🔱morally grey MMC
❄️female girl gang
🔱mythical creaters
Death’s Kiss is masterpiece and I can not wait to see what the rest of this series holds!
Thank you Thank you Thank you M. M. Reeves for gifting me this ARC it was a pleasure to step into the world of the Cardinal North.
June 18, 2025
This was a BLAST. This book genuinely destroyed my sleep schedule this week. I was up til 3am cooking through because I could not stop. It takes a bit to get going, it is a pretty complex magic system and world, it took me a bit to understand what was going on and ranks and stuff. However, WHERE CAN I FIND MORE PIRATE ROMANCE BOOKS. I adored the concept, the main action of this book reminded me a lot of the Hunger Games, there were really great descriptions of the trials the characters undergo.
Truly, truly, truly, if you want some ENEMIES to lovers, this is your book. I mean I was reading the first 200 pages and I was like this man cannot come back from how evil he is, and I was wrong. These characters genuinely have a seething hatred for one another for like 75% of the book. It is not like "I hate him but he is so hot", it is genuine hatred and disdain. The slow burn was so unbelievably worth that wait. I was constantly on the edge of my seat. The found family trope was also AMAZING. Merena and her crew and all the work the author did into showing the depth of their friendships was very touching. The ending did not just leave off on a huge cliffhanger, but it did leave you wanting so much more. We learn some secrets about Agni and Merena's past, but not too much. We get just enough information that I cannot wait for more to be unveiled in the next book. What is this prophecy? Who were Merena's parents? Why can't Merena or Agni speak about the past? Why did Agni change his name from Halycon? I AM BEGGING FOR THE NEXT BOOK. I will be sat when it is released.
Truly, truly, truly, if you want some ENEMIES to lovers, this is your book. I mean I was reading the first 200 pages and I was like this man cannot come back from how evil he is, and I was wrong. These characters genuinely have a seething hatred for one another for like 75% of the book. It is not like "I hate him but he is so hot", it is genuine hatred and disdain. The slow burn was so unbelievably worth that wait. I was constantly on the edge of my seat. The found family trope was also AMAZING. Merena and her crew and all the work the author did into showing the depth of their friendships was very touching. The ending did not just leave off on a huge cliffhanger, but it did leave you wanting so much more. We learn some secrets about Agni and Merena's past, but not too much. We get just enough information that I cannot wait for more to be unveiled in the next book. What is this prophecy? Who were Merena's parents? Why can't Merena or Agni speak about the past? Why did Agni change his name from Halycon? I AM BEGGING FOR THE NEXT BOOK. I will be sat when it is released.
April 2, 2025
Characters: 3.0⭐️
Setting: 4.00⭐️
Plot: 3.75⭐️
Themes: 3.00⭐️
Personal enjoyment: 3.75⭐️
Emotional Impact: 3.50⭐️
Overall rating: 3.75⭐️ (rounded to 4 for Goodreads)
In the world of Pontus, Death's Kiss follow's Merena Boreas, a castaway with no memory of her past and a rare gift, or elemental affinity. She has risen the ranks of Captain of the Tide Riders. A legendary Vault has emerged from deep within the ocean and challenges or pillars or put in place for Merena and her crew to secure their futures.
This is the first installment for The Order of The Tide Riders series, and is positioned as a dark fantasy. I would say this leans more towers dark romantasy. Merena is a great FMC and Agni is position as a typical morally gray "villain" in this enemies to lovers story. I felt that there very similar elements to Fourth Wing; maritime war college, kelpies (instead of dragons), affinity's (instead of signets), trials and the sort. It felt very familiar, and to be honest, I thought it was going to be more pirate-y and it was not.
It was an entertaining story, but I am not sure if I am going to continue the series. Would I recommend it? Maybe.
Thank you very much to The Nerd Fam for sending me a copy of the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Setting: 4.00⭐️
Plot: 3.75⭐️
Themes: 3.00⭐️
Personal enjoyment: 3.75⭐️
Emotional Impact: 3.50⭐️
Overall rating: 3.75⭐️ (rounded to 4 for Goodreads)
In the world of Pontus, Death's Kiss follow's Merena Boreas, a castaway with no memory of her past and a rare gift, or elemental affinity. She has risen the ranks of Captain of the Tide Riders. A legendary Vault has emerged from deep within the ocean and challenges or pillars or put in place for Merena and her crew to secure their futures.
This is the first installment for The Order of The Tide Riders series, and is positioned as a dark fantasy. I would say this leans more towers dark romantasy. Merena is a great FMC and Agni is position as a typical morally gray "villain" in this enemies to lovers story. I felt that there very similar elements to Fourth Wing; maritime war college, kelpies (instead of dragons), affinity's (instead of signets), trials and the sort. It felt very familiar, and to be honest, I thought it was going to be more pirate-y and it was not.
It was an entertaining story, but I am not sure if I am going to continue the series. Would I recommend it? Maybe.
Thank you very much to The Nerd Fam for sending me a copy of the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2025
Firstly, thank you to the author for providing an ARC copy of this book to me!
5⭐️if I could give it more I would. The fact that this is a debut novel is amazing. It’s a truly unique plot with games and trials set at a school for pirates. The main character, Merena, doesn’t remember her past so I was constantly on the edge of my seat hoping for answers to questions! Im sure there are plenty of Easter eggs I missed so I’ll definitely be rereading once the physical copy is released. Additionally, MM Reeves gave us the perfect balance of exciting scenes and realistic timing that nothing felt rushed or like too much was going on at once. While there is a lot to this world, Reeves does a wonderful job slowly but efficiently introducing you to every aspect so it’s not an information overload. Not to mention this is a TRUE enemies-to-lovers book… I could see this book blowing up the way Quicksilver did if we can reach the target audience, so I implore all of you to PLEASE read this book.
5⭐️if I could give it more I would. The fact that this is a debut novel is amazing. It’s a truly unique plot with games and trials set at a school for pirates. The main character, Merena, doesn’t remember her past so I was constantly on the edge of my seat hoping for answers to questions! Im sure there are plenty of Easter eggs I missed so I’ll definitely be rereading once the physical copy is released. Additionally, MM Reeves gave us the perfect balance of exciting scenes and realistic timing that nothing felt rushed or like too much was going on at once. While there is a lot to this world, Reeves does a wonderful job slowly but efficiently introducing you to every aspect so it’s not an information overload. Not to mention this is a TRUE enemies-to-lovers book… I could see this book blowing up the way Quicksilver did if we can reach the target audience, so I implore all of you to PLEASE read this book.
May 3, 2025
4.5 stars
“Oderint dum metuant. Let them hate, so long as they fear.”
Death’s Kiss 🏴☠️ 🌊 🗡️ M.M. Reeves has smashed it out of the ball park with this utterly amazing pirate Romantasy I never knew I needed.
Read if you like:
🏴☠️ The Ever Series x Fourth Wing
🏴☠️ Deadly trials
🏴☠️ Morally grey MMC & FMC
🏴☠️ Found Family - the relationship between Merena and her crew reminds me SO much of Manon and the thirteen (Throne of Glass series)
🏴☠️ Slow burn
“I have to think that this whole charade between us isn’t over. No, I’d wager that this dance is far from finished.”
Thanks to Nerd Fam for the ebook. I absolutely cannot wait for book 2!!
“Oderint dum metuant. Let them hate, so long as they fear.”
Death’s Kiss 🏴☠️ 🌊 🗡️ M.M. Reeves has smashed it out of the ball park with this utterly amazing pirate Romantasy I never knew I needed.
Read if you like:
🏴☠️ The Ever Series x Fourth Wing
🏴☠️ Deadly trials
🏴☠️ Morally grey MMC & FMC
🏴☠️ Found Family - the relationship between Merena and her crew reminds me SO much of Manon and the thirteen (Throne of Glass series)
🏴☠️ Slow burn
“I have to think that this whole charade between us isn’t over. No, I’d wager that this dance is far from finished.”
Thanks to Nerd Fam for the ebook. I absolutely cannot wait for book 2!!
December 30, 2024
This book is full of badass ladies sticking up for each other and pulling out the best (and worst) of each other. The trials were fantastic and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time! The ending is what I expected and perfectly sets up what to look forward to in book 2. Merena Boreas is an amazing FMC with a I’m going to prove you wrong attitude. Kleio is the best friend a girl could ask for. Agni is the villain you love to hate. Or is it hate to love?! Either way, I’m here for it! The meaning of Death’s Kiss?! I’m not crying. You’re crying!
June 9, 2025
“𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚗𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚊𝚗𝚢 ‘𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝’ 𝚘𝚛 ‘𝚠𝚛𝚘𝚗𝚐’ 𝚜𝚒𝚍𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚌𝚊𝚞𝚜𝚎, 𝚊𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚎𝚗𝚍 𝚘𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚍𝚊𝚢, 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚗𝚗𝚎𝚛’𝚜 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚋𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚘𝚗𝚕𝚢 𝚑𝚊𝚕𝚏 𝚘𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢 𝚢𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚝𝚘𝚕𝚍.” ⚓️🏴☠️🍾🌊🌅🏄🏼♀️❄️🧊⛸️🔪🗡️🔥❤️🔥💔
*Thank you to The Nerd Fam and the author for the gifted eARC*
THIS WAS INCREDIBLE!!!! I might even dare to say my favorite release of the year. I would describe it as being Fourth wing+Goblet of Fire+Pirates of the Caribbean. This book was what I expected Fourth Wing to be based on the hype it got. THIS THO OMFG FOURTH WING WISHES IS WAS AS GOOD AS DEATH’S KISS. I hope this book gets crazy hype and reviews because it really was a truly phenomenal book.
In Death’s Kiss you follow Merena and her crew of fellow raiders in their 8th and final year in the hellscape that is the Cardinal North. To everyone’s surprise tho this year will not be like every other year they have survived thus far. The Legendary Vault has risen and now Merena must fight tooth and nail through 4 pillar trials against seven other captains if she is going to secure her crew’s future and their escape from the north.
THE TENSION BETWEEN MERENA AND AGNI KILLED ME. I was in my room alone laughing out loud, giggling, and kicking my little feet at every interaction. Everytime Agni dropped some southern comments I immediately was RUUUUUUNNING to that little highborns glossary at the front cause I just knew he was saying some funny or steamy shiz. The last several chapters had me riding an insane masochistic roller coaster of emotions. Bomb after bomb being dropped left right and center. I cannot recommend this enough! You all need to add to your tbr right now cause this will not let you down. The ending man I need the second book so bad it’s not even funny.
*Thank you to The Nerd Fam and the author for the gifted eARC*
THIS WAS INCREDIBLE!!!! I might even dare to say my favorite release of the year. I would describe it as being Fourth wing+Goblet of Fire+Pirates of the Caribbean. This book was what I expected Fourth Wing to be based on the hype it got. THIS THO OMFG FOURTH WING WISHES IS WAS AS GOOD AS DEATH’S KISS. I hope this book gets crazy hype and reviews because it really was a truly phenomenal book.
In Death’s Kiss you follow Merena and her crew of fellow raiders in their 8th and final year in the hellscape that is the Cardinal North. To everyone’s surprise tho this year will not be like every other year they have survived thus far. The Legendary Vault has risen and now Merena must fight tooth and nail through 4 pillar trials against seven other captains if she is going to secure her crew’s future and their escape from the north.
THE TENSION BETWEEN MERENA AND AGNI KILLED ME. I was in my room alone laughing out loud, giggling, and kicking my little feet at every interaction. Everytime Agni dropped some southern comments I immediately was RUUUUUUNNING to that little highborns glossary at the front cause I just knew he was saying some funny or steamy shiz. The last several chapters had me riding an insane masochistic roller coaster of emotions. Bomb after bomb being dropped left right and center. I cannot recommend this enough! You all need to add to your tbr right now cause this will not let you down. The ending man I need the second book so bad it’s not even funny.
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