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Crimson Sails #1
Hunt on Dark Waters
Die unersetzlichen Erbstücke ihrer mächtigen Ex-Freundin zu stehlen und daraufhin auch noch in ein Portal zu stolpern waren sicherlich nicht die besten Ideen, die die junge Hexe Evelyn je hatte. Sie landet in Treshold, einer magischen Zwischenwelt, die aus einem gigantischen Meer und unzähligen Inseln besteht, und wird ausgerechnet von Bowen, dem Kapitän der berüchtigten Piratencrew Cŵn Annwn, aus dem Wasser gefischt. Dieser stellt Evelyn vor die Wahl: entweder schließt sie sich der Bande an, oder er schmeißt sie wieder von Bord. Doch Evelyn lässt sich nicht gerne herumkommandieren - auch nicht von einem verboten attraktiven Kapitän, der ihr Herz mit jedem Tag mehr zu erobern droht ...
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2023
1090 people are currently reading
44686 people want to read
About the author
Katee Robert
159 books36.9k followersKatee Robert is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of spicy romance. Entertainment Weekly calls her writing “unspeakably hot.” Her books have sold over two million copies. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, children, a cat who thinks he’s a dog, and two Great Danes who think they’re lap dogs.
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October 28, 2023take a shot every time the word "paladin" shows up
August 15, 2023
How can such interesting world-building and a fantasy storyline feel so disappointing? The romance also fell flat because of the insta-love and general pacing. Didn’t really enjoy this one. Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pirates. Mermaids. Krakens. Dragons. Selkies. Witches. Vampires. Fairy Rings. Portals to magical realms. This book is an amalgamation of basically every type of magic, sourced from a variety of real mythology combined with the usual aspects of spooky creatures. Katee Robert is good at taking classic myths and twisting them into her own unique stories, and this is no exception. This def has references to Pirates of the Caribbean—there’s even a line or two that I know were literally taken from those movies?! The FMC here is an oftentimes annoying witch, Evelyn, who escapes her vampire girlfriend through a magic portal she randomly finds in a closet (???) that drops her onto a pirate ship captained by our typical tall, dark, handsome pirate hero, Bowen. The trick to remembering his name (because he is otherwise completely forgettable) is to keep telling yourself it rhymes with Rowan. Anyways this fantasy plot is interesting. Keeping this spoiler free, but Bowen fights both land and sea monsters. Evelyn is thus faced with a variety of mythological creatures, magic, seaside towns, secret rebels, villains, and of course the decision of whether or not to fall for said pirate lord.
This is where I found myself seriously dragging. Pacing was off and the whole thing felt super rushed and therefore unbelievable. Think straight up run-of-the-mill insta-love. So much potential yet I didn't feel any chemistry between Bowen (again, I literally keep forgetting his name and I just finished this) and Evelyn at all, even with the usual amount of Katee Robert spice (a lot) AND even with Bowen's extra magical abilities. I just wasn't feeling it with them because everything was soooo rushed and very cringe. I felt more of a connection with Evelyn and her vamp ex-gf than with Bowen, and that isn't saying much.
All in all, will I continue this series? No. At first I thought yes, but after thinking more its a solid no. The world-building and fantasy aspects of this are good and unique enough, but Evelyn is just really annoying. I honestly couldn't care less about the Evelyn/Bowen romance, which is a shame because this had all the makings of a great romantasy. Would have been 1 star honestly if not for the cool fantasy world. It was an overall easy read--and can we talk about how gorgeous this cover is?! Its so pretty I could frame it.
Pirates. Mermaids. Krakens. Dragons. Selkies. Witches. Vampires. Fairy Rings. Portals to magical realms. This book is an amalgamation of basically every type of magic, sourced from a variety of real mythology combined with the usual aspects of spooky creatures. Katee Robert is good at taking classic myths and twisting them into her own unique stories, and this is no exception. This def has references to Pirates of the Caribbean—there’s even a line or two that I know were literally taken from those movies?! The FMC here is an oftentimes annoying witch, Evelyn, who escapes her vampire girlfriend through a magic portal she randomly finds in a closet (???) that drops her onto a pirate ship captained by our typical tall, dark, handsome pirate hero, Bowen. The trick to remembering his name (because he is otherwise completely forgettable) is to keep telling yourself it rhymes with Rowan. Anyways this fantasy plot is interesting. Keeping this spoiler free, but Bowen fights both land and sea monsters. Evelyn is thus faced with a variety of mythological creatures, magic, seaside towns, secret rebels, villains, and of course the decision of whether or not to fall for said pirate lord.
This is where I found myself seriously dragging. Pacing was off and the whole thing felt super rushed and therefore unbelievable. Think straight up run-of-the-mill insta-love. So much potential yet I didn't feel any chemistry between Bowen (again, I literally keep forgetting his name and I just finished this) and Evelyn at all, even with the usual amount of Katee Robert spice (a lot) AND even with Bowen's extra magical abilities. I just wasn't feeling it with them because everything was soooo rushed and very cringe. I felt more of a connection with Evelyn and her vamp ex-gf than with Bowen, and that isn't saying much.
All in all, will I continue this series? No. At first I thought yes, but after thinking more its a solid no. The world-building and fantasy aspects of this are good and unique enough, but Evelyn is just really annoying. I honestly couldn't care less about the Evelyn/Bowen romance, which is a shame because this had all the makings of a great romantasy. Would have been 1 star honestly if not for the cool fantasy world. It was an overall easy read--and can we talk about how gorgeous this cover is?! Its so pretty I could frame it.
October 18, 2023
Hunt on Dark Waters
by Katee Robert is the first book in a new fantasy romance series: Crimson Sails. Evelyn is a witch who steals from her vampire ex and goes through a portal into another realm: Threshold. She’s rescued from the ocean by pirates and their telekinetic captain and is given a choice: join them or die. Captain Bowen and his crew are bound by a vow to patrol the magical sea in between realms, keeping the portals to other worlds safe. As tension rises between Bowen and Evelyn, danger arises too.
Evelyn has terrible taste in girlfriends and boyfriends. She tends to steal, likes danger, and can be reckless and manipulatives. However, she can also be sentimental and curious. Bowen is honorable, fair, and serious. However, he can also be blunt and is viewed as rigid and unbending.
The world-building and characterization are wonderful. Who doesn’t like to explore fantasy worlds with witches, vampires, pirates, dragons, mermaids, and more? However, the pacing was somewhat uneven and the romance was too quick. There was an instant physical attraction despite the gravity of the decisions that needed to be made. Despite this there are only a couple of spicy scenes in the last half of the book. It was easy to get caught up in the adventure story and I am interested to see where the story goes in the next book.
Overall, this was an entertaining and fun novel with great world-building.
Berkley Publishing Group and Katee Robert provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for November 07, 2023.
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My 3.42 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon.
Evelyn has terrible taste in girlfriends and boyfriends. She tends to steal, likes danger, and can be reckless and manipulatives. However, she can also be sentimental and curious. Bowen is honorable, fair, and serious. However, he can also be blunt and is viewed as rigid and unbending.
The world-building and characterization are wonderful. Who doesn’t like to explore fantasy worlds with witches, vampires, pirates, dragons, mermaids, and more? However, the pacing was somewhat uneven and the romance was too quick. There was an instant physical attraction despite the gravity of the decisions that needed to be made. Despite this there are only a couple of spicy scenes in the last half of the book. It was easy to get caught up in the adventure story and I am interested to see where the story goes in the next book.
Overall, this was an entertaining and fun novel with great world-building.
Berkley Publishing Group and Katee Robert provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for November 07, 2023.
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My 3.42 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon.
December 10, 2023
I read words but I didn’t feel them.
January 1, 2024
Oh Katee...this was a major let down.
I expected so much more from this one. I was excited to finally delve into a romantasy that featured queer pirates. Unfortunately, this didn't deliver. Robert had everything to make a great story. The idea of the world was unique and I appreciated the undertone of the message Robert was attempting to convey with Evelyn pushing Bowen to question authority. Nevertheless, the world was never truly fleshed out and Evelyn was beyond annoying. I felt more at ease with Bowen. The pacing wasn't consistent. There were moments when the story was fast paced and there were moments where it dragged. The romance wasn't realistic. Evelyn and Bowen felt as though they randomly fell in love. I wasn't really clear or sure when things changed. Overall, there were missed opportunities with this book. Robert could have delved more into the world building and created better clarity on the romantic dynamics between Evelyn and Bowen. While I was interested in Lizzie as a character and how she will continue to develop in future books, I don't think I'll be picking up the second book in the series.
I expected so much more from this one. I was excited to finally delve into a romantasy that featured queer pirates. Unfortunately, this didn't deliver. Robert had everything to make a great story. The idea of the world was unique and I appreciated the undertone of the message Robert was attempting to convey with Evelyn pushing Bowen to question authority. Nevertheless, the world was never truly fleshed out and Evelyn was beyond annoying. I felt more at ease with Bowen. The pacing wasn't consistent. There were moments when the story was fast paced and there were moments where it dragged. The romance wasn't realistic. Evelyn and Bowen felt as though they randomly fell in love. I wasn't really clear or sure when things changed. Overall, there were missed opportunities with this book. Robert could have delved more into the world building and created better clarity on the romantic dynamics between Evelyn and Bowen. While I was interested in Lizzie as a character and how she will continue to develop in future books, I don't think I'll be picking up the second book in the series.
November 17, 2023
Poorly written with forced pronouns and queer characters. Just absolute garbage.
January 15, 2026
2.5 stars
Started off as a lot of fun and well written smut. About halfway though it lost me with the plot. Too many things built up just to suddenly fall apart. I really liked the chemistry between the main characters but overall it was solidly just okay to me.
But the cover? Especially the physical paperback? STUNNING. Love it.
Started off as a lot of fun and well written smut. About halfway though it lost me with the plot. Too many things built up just to suddenly fall apart. I really liked the chemistry between the main characters but overall it was solidly just okay to me.
But the cover? Especially the physical paperback? STUNNING. Love it.
September 22, 2023
I discovered Katee Robert with the Dark Olympus series. Although I was not a fan of those books, I was curious with Hunt on Dark Waters and I was lucky to receive an e-ARC of the book.
I’ve found this book a lot better than I was expecting. The setting is interesting and includes a large amount of magical and mythological creatures, it has a good queer representation and delivers on its promise: pirate smut!
I was not a fan of Evelyn, who is the typical feisty FMC we are getting used to read about nowadays, but I loved Bowen and his golden retriever pirate vibe.
I seriously don’t know where these authors come up with ideas.. the different uses of telekinetic powers would have never crossed my mind, but I liked it!
I do believe there are things that could have improved the story, turning this into a better romantasy, namely, some more insights into Evelyn and Bowen pasts through flashbacks (I’m particularly interested in Bunny’s perspective/ knowledge), deeper development of the world and more interactions with the secondary characters.
Overall it was a fun, fast and sexy read. I’m interested in continue the series.
3.5 ⭐️
Read this is you like:
- Pirates, Witches, Vampires
- Insta love
- Golden retriever MMC
- Spice
- Easy, but interesting world building
- Monsters
I would like to thanks Random House UK, Cornerstone, Del Rey and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve found this book a lot better than I was expecting. The setting is interesting and includes a large amount of magical and mythological creatures, it has a good queer representation and delivers on its promise: pirate smut!
I was not a fan of Evelyn, who is the typical feisty FMC we are getting used to read about nowadays, but I loved Bowen and his golden retriever pirate vibe.
I seriously don’t know where these authors come up with ideas.. the different uses of telekinetic powers would have never crossed my mind, but I liked it!
I do believe there are things that could have improved the story, turning this into a better romantasy, namely, some more insights into Evelyn and Bowen pasts through flashbacks (I’m particularly interested in Bunny’s perspective/ knowledge), deeper development of the world and more interactions with the secondary characters.
Overall it was a fun, fast and sexy read. I’m interested in continue the series.
3.5 ⭐️
Read this is you like:
- Pirates, Witches, Vampires
- Insta love
- Golden retriever MMC
- Spice
- Easy, but interesting world building
- Monsters
I would like to thanks Random House UK, Cornerstone, Del Rey and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2023
This was… not good. I’ve read Katee Robert before and had a good time but this was clearly not cut from the same cloth. The plot is paper thin, the world building is lacking, the characters are mind numbingly boring and the dialogue hurt my soul.
Evelyn throws herself into a mysterious portal in an attempt to escape her murderous ex girlfriend and finds herself forced into service aboard a pirate ship. She meets the captain, Bowen, and it’s instalove as they take on the high seas.
It’s rare that I have such a strong urge to DNF but I had to fight really hard not to walk away from this book. It was just so boring and amateur. Yes there’s spice but even that didn’t make me want to stick with it. Just disappointing all around
Evelyn throws herself into a mysterious portal in an attempt to escape her murderous ex girlfriend and finds herself forced into service aboard a pirate ship. She meets the captain, Bowen, and it’s instalove as they take on the high seas.
It’s rare that I have such a strong urge to DNF but I had to fight really hard not to walk away from this book. It was just so boring and amateur. Yes there’s spice but even that didn’t make me want to stick with it. Just disappointing all around
January 4, 2024
2.5 stars rounded up
This was fine but kind of disappointing. Portal fantasy meets magic pirates with a bisexual heroine? Sounds great! In practice though, I was never very invested in the characters and wanted more than sex from the primary relationship. Katee is usually better about this but I imagine spending more time on the world-building elements might have detracted from the characters. I didn't buy that they were actually in love with each other and things progressed from casual sex to "love" really quickly with some sort of magic hand-waving around it. The premise of the world and heroes conflict is cool, but again I wanted more depth. This wasn't a bad book, but I didn't care all that much and probably won't continue with the series unless I'm hearing rave reviews. I received a copy of this book for review via Netgalley, all opinions are my own.
This was fine but kind of disappointing. Portal fantasy meets magic pirates with a bisexual heroine? Sounds great! In practice though, I was never very invested in the characters and wanted more than sex from the primary relationship. Katee is usually better about this but I imagine spending more time on the world-building elements might have detracted from the characters. I didn't buy that they were actually in love with each other and things progressed from casual sex to "love" really quickly with some sort of magic hand-waving around it. The premise of the world and heroes conflict is cool, but again I wanted more depth. This wasn't a bad book, but I didn't care all that much and probably won't continue with the series unless I'm hearing rave reviews. I received a copy of this book for review via Netgalley, all opinions are my own.
June 27, 2023
“Don’t you dare die.”
“And lose out on even a moment with you? Never.”
evelyn and bowen :’)
i had entirely way too much fun with this book, i was immediately hooked and stayed that way until the very end.
i really appreciated the fact that there was detailed world building without it being too much of a headache to recall the information when needed, and that it stayed heavily plot based while still managing to nurture evelyn and bowens relationship in a way that didn’t feel too rushed even though technically speaking in book time it was. i also really loved that i was constantly trying to piece together what was going on because i was so engaged with the story and the new world to the point that i think i started to try to make things out of nothing 😂
in typical katee robert fashion this book has tons of cuteness, banter, spice, inclusivity, bad ass characters fighting nightmarish things, cinnamon roll MMC and a hot psychotic vampire attempting murder on our sneaky witch fmc and said cinnamon roll mmc.
the only thing that is crushing me on the inside about this book is the fact we’re still left with plenty of unanswered things that i am not sure if we’re ever gonna get answers to exactly but im trying to remember that is how series work and to get over it 🥲
lastly, if you were a big fan of daddy phantom hands dorian havilliard im confident you will indeed find bowen just as enticing 🤭
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
wowza. rtc sometime in the morning bc i am lazy and tired but to no surprise this was another classic katee robert banger 🫶🏼
“And lose out on even a moment with you? Never.”
evelyn and bowen :’)
i had entirely way too much fun with this book, i was immediately hooked and stayed that way until the very end.
i really appreciated the fact that there was detailed world building without it being too much of a headache to recall the information when needed, and that it stayed heavily plot based while still managing to nurture evelyn and bowens relationship in a way that didn’t feel too rushed even though technically speaking in book time it was. i also really loved that i was constantly trying to piece together what was going on because i was so engaged with the story and the new world to the point that i think i started to try to make things out of nothing 😂
in typical katee robert fashion this book has tons of cuteness, banter, spice, inclusivity, bad ass characters fighting nightmarish things, cinnamon roll MMC and a hot psychotic vampire attempting murder on our sneaky witch fmc and said cinnamon roll mmc.
the only thing that is crushing me on the inside about this book is the fact we’re still left with plenty of unanswered things that i am not sure if we’re ever gonna get answers to exactly but im trying to remember that is how series work and to get over it 🥲
lastly, if you were a big fan of daddy phantom hands dorian havilliard im confident you will indeed find bowen just as enticing 🤭
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
wowza. rtc sometime in the morning bc i am lazy and tired but to no surprise this was another classic katee robert banger 🫶🏼
March 31, 2024
this was super hard to read. definitely put me in a reading slump 😭
December 16, 2023
First of all, I was not buying the romance. Secondly, if I took a shot every time I read the word paladin, I’d have alcohol poisoning 🥴
November 7, 2023
Happy release day!
It's a big year for pirate media. In fact, this book, set in a world of islands, filled with hot people, gave me hopes for a One Piece But Sexy kind of story. Alas. Hunt on Dark Waters read like biting into a delicious-looking confection, quickly realizing several key ingredients are missing.
Thanks to Berkeley via Netgalley for a copy to review; this one's out November 7th.
A lot of Robert's books hit me like this ‐ I love the premise but am left wanting so much more lore and chemistry between the leads. There's spice, sure, but what this story lacks really hits - particularly something aspiring to be a romantasy as this is, particularly during a year in the publishing market that is especially full of pirate-themed romantasies competing for my attention. Another reviewer hit the nail on the head when they said that other series of Robert's rely on pre-established canon, like the Olympus and Disney erotica series, and that going it alone here particularly doesn't work.
It was nice to have some bi representation in our protagonist, but Evelyn's POV was unbearable, her narrative voice immature and acerbic for me. Bowen's ~instant attraction~ to her was just baffling. There was a one-two punch of insta-lust and insta-love that leaned heavily on mere physical attraction. As for Bowen - there's a way to do a still-waters, stoic character that still makes them immensely appealing, and that's not what happened here. He was dull. Miles, his reptilian, tailed and scaled quartermaster, was more alluring to me.
Die-hard Katee readers seem to enjoy this. I'd recommend for those who enjoy spice without substance, and snarky, crass first-person POV, with some crumbs of worldbuilding.
It's a big year for pirate media. In fact, this book, set in a world of islands, filled with hot people, gave me hopes for a One Piece But Sexy kind of story. Alas. Hunt on Dark Waters read like biting into a delicious-looking confection, quickly realizing several key ingredients are missing.
Thanks to Berkeley via Netgalley for a copy to review; this one's out November 7th.
A lot of Robert's books hit me like this ‐ I love the premise but am left wanting so much more lore and chemistry between the leads. There's spice, sure, but what this story lacks really hits - particularly something aspiring to be a romantasy as this is, particularly during a year in the publishing market that is especially full of pirate-themed romantasies competing for my attention. Another reviewer hit the nail on the head when they said that other series of Robert's rely on pre-established canon, like the Olympus and Disney erotica series, and that going it alone here particularly doesn't work.
It was nice to have some bi representation in our protagonist, but Evelyn's POV was unbearable, her narrative voice immature and acerbic for me. Bowen's ~instant attraction~ to her was just baffling. There was a one-two punch of insta-lust and insta-love that leaned heavily on mere physical attraction. As for Bowen - there's a way to do a still-waters, stoic character that still makes them immensely appealing, and that's not what happened here. He was dull. Miles, his reptilian, tailed and scaled quartermaster, was more alluring to me.
Die-hard Katee readers seem to enjoy this. I'd recommend for those who enjoy spice without substance, and snarky, crass first-person POV, with some crumbs of worldbuilding.
August 6, 2023
I love the world building and the magic however the romance was too insta lovey so hopefully I future books I prefer it
February 19, 2024
When will I learn that I don’t love sea faring novels???!
This was fine. It was pretty slow burn in terms of the actual deed but was insta love in true Katee fashion.
This was fine. It was pretty slow burn in terms of the actual deed but was insta love in true Katee fashion.
November 14, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
Lacked a bit romance build up, tension and chemistry 😅
Lacked a bit romance build up, tension and chemistry 😅
January 15, 2025
It had me… and then it lost me.
Some things to expect inside:
* First person
* Dual POV
* One bed
* LGBTQ+ inclusivity
* Insta love/lust
* Mythical beings/creatures
* Captor/Captive
* Grumpy x Sunshine
* 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5 spice rating
The plot of this book had me in a tight grip and it was not letting me go at all. The beginning of this book was so much fun, the FMC was making me cackle with her witty humor and I was addicted, I didn't want it to end. And then she met Bowen, and I wanted it to end. You have witches, vampires, dragons, and people with all different kinds of abilities in this book, but they aren't in there enough at ALL! The story was very rushed and it turned into focusing more on the romance aspect of things. But i like a really set plot with my romance. But halfway through it was almost completely lost to me. It felt very rushed.
Evelyn was a great character, her comebacks were so funny to me and the banter she had with Bowen was fun at times, but her inner thoughts were annoying as well. I liked how she constantly stood on business and stood up for the things she believed in but you can't tell me that she's there for two days and she changes the mindset of a man who has been there for twenty years as easily as she did.
Bowens character was eh, typical broody “morally grey” man who suddenly gets a conscience because of a random girl telling him he's wrong. There was no real connection between them at all, it was very surface level and I couldn't stand the mention of them loving each other after only a week.
Even though book two is with two different characters as the focus i will not be continuing on with this series.
Some things to expect inside:
* First person
* Dual POV
* One bed
* LGBTQ+ inclusivity
* Insta love/lust
* Mythical beings/creatures
* Captor/Captive
* Grumpy x Sunshine
* 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5 spice rating
The plot of this book had me in a tight grip and it was not letting me go at all. The beginning of this book was so much fun, the FMC was making me cackle with her witty humor and I was addicted, I didn't want it to end. And then she met Bowen, and I wanted it to end. You have witches, vampires, dragons, and people with all different kinds of abilities in this book, but they aren't in there enough at ALL! The story was very rushed and it turned into focusing more on the romance aspect of things. But i like a really set plot with my romance. But halfway through it was almost completely lost to me. It felt very rushed.
Evelyn was a great character, her comebacks were so funny to me and the banter she had with Bowen was fun at times, but her inner thoughts were annoying as well. I liked how she constantly stood on business and stood up for the things she believed in but you can't tell me that she's there for two days and she changes the mindset of a man who has been there for twenty years as easily as she did.
Bowens character was eh, typical broody “morally grey” man who suddenly gets a conscience because of a random girl telling him he's wrong. There was no real connection between them at all, it was very surface level and I couldn't stand the mention of them loving each other after only a week.
Even though book two is with two different characters as the focus i will not be continuing on with this series.
July 11, 2024
Evelyn is a witch raised by her grandmother and, after her death, attempting to still live by her rules. Sharing a bed with a vampire was not one of them. Nor was stealing from said vampire, fleeing through a portal into another realm, and falling for her new pirate captain and captor.
This isn't my usual genre yet I had a lot of fun with it. I usually prefer my fantasy and contemporary books to remain separate but was interested to see how I would find the two worlds colliding here. I thought Roberts did a great job of creating her characters and their various abilities, as well as explaining the new realm Evelyn and the reader enter into. Once she ventured beyond this world by interest was really piqued!
Romance was at the forefront of the focus and I adored seeing Evelyn and Bowen grow in character and their attractions for one another. His perspective was added into the story and I loved seeing his insights to proceedings, which were far gentler than Evelyn's sassy ones. They both had demons to face and secrets they were running from, which they attempted to deal with as they also tried not to tear the clothes off each other.
This was a fun escape from my usual genres and ensured Katee Roberts an author I will sample from again.
This isn't my usual genre yet I had a lot of fun with it. I usually prefer my fantasy and contemporary books to remain separate but was interested to see how I would find the two worlds colliding here. I thought Roberts did a great job of creating her characters and their various abilities, as well as explaining the new realm Evelyn and the reader enter into. Once she ventured beyond this world by interest was really piqued!
Romance was at the forefront of the focus and I adored seeing Evelyn and Bowen grow in character and their attractions for one another. His perspective was added into the story and I loved seeing his insights to proceedings, which were far gentler than Evelyn's sassy ones. They both had demons to face and secrets they were running from, which they attempted to deal with as they also tried not to tear the clothes off each other.
This was a fun escape from my usual genres and ensured Katee Roberts an author I will sample from again.
November 10, 2023
3.5⭐️
Adventure & romance on the high seas, between realms, between a witch, a vampire ex out for revenge and a telekinetic paladin, monster hunting pirate/sea captain.
Portals to different realms, bisexual witches, killer vampires, deadly mermaids, dragons, magic infused intimate moments, and more! Katee creates a fun fantasy world full of adventure and chaos. I enjoyed Evelyn and Bowen and the various other characters we meet in this book.
It's definitely a book that sets up a series though and we are left with many questions. The steam was fun, there were even some magical moments. What I really enjoyed though was the action - the mythical creatures, the battles. That was a lot of fun!
Bowen's storyline is definitely my favorite. He's got a backstory that I can't wait to get know more about. This is definitely a case of instalove between Evelvn and Bowen but he won me over.
This enticed me enough that I want to see where the Crimson Sails series goes, but I didn't love it. I definitely wanted a bit more. It definitely feels like a set-up book for a series, so we are left with more questions than answers.
That cover too - isn't it pretty! Love the sparkly, foil accents.
Adventure & romance on the high seas, between realms, between a witch, a vampire ex out for revenge and a telekinetic paladin, monster hunting pirate/sea captain.
Portals to different realms, bisexual witches, killer vampires, deadly mermaids, dragons, magic infused intimate moments, and more! Katee creates a fun fantasy world full of adventure and chaos. I enjoyed Evelyn and Bowen and the various other characters we meet in this book.
It's definitely a book that sets up a series though and we are left with many questions. The steam was fun, there were even some magical moments. What I really enjoyed though was the action - the mythical creatures, the battles. That was a lot of fun!
Bowen's storyline is definitely my favorite. He's got a backstory that I can't wait to get know more about. This is definitely a case of instalove between Evelvn and Bowen but he won me over.
This enticed me enough that I want to see where the Crimson Sails series goes, but I didn't love it. I definitely wanted a bit more. It definitely feels like a set-up book for a series, so we are left with more questions than answers.
That cover too - isn't it pretty! Love the sparkly, foil accents.
December 3, 2023
⭐️ — DNF
So I thought I signed up for a dark romance fantasy with a side of pirates and I have quickly found that I was wrong. It was cheesy in a way I’m not interested in and the whole thing felt… meh! On to bigger and better things.
So I thought I signed up for a dark romance fantasy with a side of pirates and I have quickly found that I was wrong. It was cheesy in a way I’m not interested in and the whole thing felt… meh! On to bigger and better things.
March 4, 2024
I loved the premise of this book, but sadly the execution fell short and left much to be desired. This book felt like an underdeveloped draft rather than a fleshed out story.
I think I’ll be passing on the rest of the series.
I think I’ll be passing on the rest of the series.
August 30, 2023
I was fascinated by this world from the beginning. It gets quite interesting as the story progresses and Evelyn goes through a portal. I was so excited for the early enemies to lovers vibes on a ship with none other than the captain. They have such an undeniable attraction i was rooting for them to jump each other. It was spicy with the hint of danger and secrets coming out. This was a magical adventure that I enjoyed and will be my new favorite Katee Robert book.
February 12, 2024
My mom got me this book as a gift, I’m going to personally refund her the money spent on purchasing this absolutely awful novel.
Side note - Lizzie is related to Wolf, a vampire from a Court of the Vampire Queen. The worst book I’ve ever read and cannot seem to escape. Katee Robert writes terrible books and should stop.
Side note - Lizzie is related to Wolf, a vampire from a Court of the Vampire Queen. The worst book I’ve ever read and cannot seem to escape. Katee Robert writes terrible books and should stop.
November 8, 2023
If you take The Sea Beast (yes, the animated film from Netflix - it’s my fave, ok) but make it adult and SPICY then you have Hunt on Dark Waters.
Evelyn is a certified hot mess. Evelyn is a witch on the run after stealing from her vampire ex (she’s both stunning and deadly) by jumping through a portal to land with a bunch of pirates led by a telekinetic captain, Bowen. She has to pledge herself to the crew or wind up dead…but of course, Evelyn never listens and Bowen loves the thrill of the hunt.
Right off the bat, Bowen instantly is attracted to Evelyn, which is adorable because he tries to maintain his burly façade and fails. Evelyn is an absolute spitfire who fails to give up on freedom, but also knows that she has needs be met…
I loved the absolute shenanigans that take place in this book. There’s a lot of action, which keeps the pace at a steady clip. Also, Evelyn makes the dumbest decisions, but you can’t help but love her.
Bowen and Evelyn have incredible chemistry. Their banter is top notch and their spicy scenes left nothing to be desired…
With the ending of this one, I can’t wait for book two!
Thank you Berkley Romance for providing a review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
Evelyn is a certified hot mess. Evelyn is a witch on the run after stealing from her vampire ex (she’s both stunning and deadly) by jumping through a portal to land with a bunch of pirates led by a telekinetic captain, Bowen. She has to pledge herself to the crew or wind up dead…but of course, Evelyn never listens and Bowen loves the thrill of the hunt.
Right off the bat, Bowen instantly is attracted to Evelyn, which is adorable because he tries to maintain his burly façade and fails. Evelyn is an absolute spitfire who fails to give up on freedom, but also knows that she has needs be met…
I loved the absolute shenanigans that take place in this book. There’s a lot of action, which keeps the pace at a steady clip. Also, Evelyn makes the dumbest decisions, but you can’t help but love her.
Bowen and Evelyn have incredible chemistry. Their banter is top notch and their spicy scenes left nothing to be desired…
With the ending of this one, I can’t wait for book two!
Thank you Berkley Romance for providing a review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
June 29, 2023
I loved the kickoff to this new series! Evelyn is a kleptomaniac witch with a smart mouth who’s a blast to root for. When she accidentally falls through a portal and ends up in pirate Bowen’s clutches, the fireworks start going off.
The Cwn Annwn are ‘pirates’ with a specific job, which is to kill supernatural monsters. Evelyn showing up causes Bowen to challenge some of what he thinks he knows about monsters and the life he’s led until now. I love it when two damaged characters find the person who fits them just right, and that’s what happens here.
This story was a great blend of world building, romance, and adventure; with some great magical steam along the way. There are a lot of things left unanswered (what’s Bowen’s history? Who’s leading the rebellion?) but the book ended in a good place and I’m excited to read more.
The Cwn Annwn are ‘pirates’ with a specific job, which is to kill supernatural monsters. Evelyn showing up causes Bowen to challenge some of what he thinks he knows about monsters and the life he’s led until now. I love it when two damaged characters find the person who fits them just right, and that’s what happens here.
This story was a great blend of world building, romance, and adventure; with some great magical steam along the way. There are a lot of things left unanswered (what’s Bowen’s history? Who’s leading the rebellion?) but the book ended in a good place and I’m excited to read more.
December 9, 2023
The main characters were boring, the romance and insta-love fell flat and felt unrealistic, the pace was all over the place, and the ending just happened abruptly.
The world building was decent and definitely had the potential to be really interesting, but even that could not save this book.
There were so many different sorta plots that if asked, I honestly couldn't tell you what this book was supposed to be about. I can tell you that it wasn't about pirates. There are no pirates in this book. None.
This author is often very hit or very miss for me.
This one's a miss.
The world building was decent and definitely had the potential to be really interesting, but even that could not save this book.
There were so many different sorta plots that if asked, I honestly couldn't tell you what this book was supposed to be about. I can tell you that it wasn't about pirates. There are no pirates in this book. None.
This author is often very hit or very miss for me.
This one's a miss.
September 17, 2025
It was ok. Pirates, witches, vampires fighting sea dragons and mermaids....so much promise and yet it didn't hit the way I expected it to.
I think this is partly because I did not like the FMC. I found her annoying and childish and it was hard to have any investment into her story. The MMC was great...everything that you would want in a telekinetic rough around the edges pirate he delivers! but it's not enough to make up for the annoying FMC.
I will read the 2nd book In the series because I already bought it, but depending on how that storyline goes I might not finish the series as a whole.
I think this is partly because I did not like the FMC. I found her annoying and childish and it was hard to have any investment into her story. The MMC was great...everything that you would want in a telekinetic rough around the edges pirate he delivers! but it's not enough to make up for the annoying FMC.
I will read the 2nd book In the series because I already bought it, but depending on how that storyline goes I might not finish the series as a whole.
March 15, 2025
L’univers est intéressant et prometteur, les personnages sont attachants même si j’ai trouvé que leur relation allait trop vite… c’était une lecture sympa mais sans plus, je sais qu’il y aura une suite (ou un spin off) et j’avoue que je serai curieuse de la lire pour voir si le worldbuilding s’intensifie ou ce que donne l’intrigue fantasy si elle est moins centrée sur la romance… après pas sûr que je garde un si bon souvenir de ce tome 1 que je pense à lire la suite au moment de sa sortie 🤭
October 25, 2023
Initial Thoughts
I really enjoyed this book! Evelyn is a great character. After things go wrong with her vampire ex, she finds herself in another world where she meets Bowen. Bowen is the caption of his ship but has no memories from the days before he became part of the crew. They are attracted to each other right away and soon Bowen is questioning all the things that he thought that he know. This book was packed with all the action that I hoped for balanced with just the right amount of romance. I listened ot the audiobook and thought that the narrators did a great job with the story.
Review copy provided by the publisher. Full review to be posted soon.
I really enjoyed this book! Evelyn is a great character. After things go wrong with her vampire ex, she finds herself in another world where she meets Bowen. Bowen is the caption of his ship but has no memories from the days before he became part of the crew. They are attracted to each other right away and soon Bowen is questioning all the things that he thought that he know. This book was packed with all the action that I hoped for balanced with just the right amount of romance. I listened ot the audiobook and thought that the narrators did a great job with the story.
Review copy provided by the publisher. Full review to be posted soon.
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