Rise of the Crimson Tide

by M.L. Roelke

Set in the 18th-century Caribbean, Captain Cillian O’Flaherty embarks on a merciless quest to avenge her uncle’s death and reclaim his most prized possession—a map leading to Captain William Kidd’s treasure. Commanding a ship of rebels, rogues, and outcasts, O’Flaherty is determined to find the map and make the British Navy pay for its sins along the way.

Among her fiercely loyal crew are Ian MacKinnon, her cynical first mate and former Jacobite rebel, and Victor Roberts, a British soldier turned reluctant pirate. Together, they face not only the relentless pursuit of rival treasure hunters, His Majesty’s Navy, and supernatural forces, but also the rising romantic tensions that threaten to throw their mission off course.

This high-seas adventure blends themes of vengeance, destiny, and redemption as Cillian O’Flaherty pushes herself and her crew to their breaking points in her relentless pursuit to rise.

597 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 31, 2025

Reviews

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this one up almost entirely because a close friend wrote it, and I came away genuinely impressed. For a debut novel, this is a really solid pirate adventure that blends historical fiction, fantasy, a treasure hunt, and just enough romance and spice to keep me invested.
Cillian, Ian, and Victor made a fantastic trio of main characters, but Ian ended up being my favorite. His chapters revealed so much about how Cillian became the legendary captain she is, and their shared history gave the story a real emotional core. I also enjoyed watching Victor slowly question everything he thought he knew while the mystery surrounding Captain Kidd's treasure and the prophecies unfolded.
The historical details and pirate dialogue gave the story an authentic feel, and it was clear that a lot of research went into building this world. Overall, it is a very enjoyable debut and a great choice for readers who enjoy pirate adventures, historical fantasy, and supernatural mysteries. I'm looking forward to seeing where Captain Cillian O'Flaherty sails next.

[Katy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven’t been on GoodReads this year because of reasons but this book needs to be celebrated through every avenue I could think of. I will be recommending this book to everyone I know. And, honestly, probably those I don’t know. This book had everything I didn’t even know I wanted in a book. The characters are so thoughtfully developed. The book was clearly historically researched and felt genuine throughout. I loved the idea of such a diverse cast of characters and they all felt so integral to the story. Even though the book is 500+ pages and was quite heavy to hold, I would deal with another wrist cramp if book two were already out. I straight up didn’t want this to end. The romance between Cillian and Ian was SO real. And yet the makings of a love triangle was engaging too! I’m usually one to turn my nose up at hetero spice but this one had me YEARNING on their behalf. The action and adventure, the DOG, the sea, the cutthroat pirates… Every page was gripping. Some writers can make you feel part of the story, like more than a spectator. Roelke did this here.

[Allison Bradley · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love pirate adventures with high stakes, slow-burn romance, and a crew that feels like family, this book absolutely delivers.
From the first chapter, I was hooked by the nonstop action, dangerous treasure hunt, and the tension between revenge and loyalty. The world feels immersive without being overwhelming, and every twist kept me wanting “just one more chapter.”
The characters are what made this story shine. The banter, found-family dynamics, and emotional growth gave the adventure real depth. The romance was perfectly paced, adding just enough tension without overshadowing the main plot.
This isn’t just a pirate story—it’s about grief, vengeance, trust, and discovering what truly matters when everything is on the line.
If you’re a fan of adventurous romantasy with morally gray characters, hidden treasure, sea battles, and plenty of emotional moments, Rise of the Crimson Tide deserves a spot on your TBR.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for a great pirate adventure that will take you all over the world, and an amazing story filled to brim with great characters, then this book is for you!
I had such a fun time reading this and I feel like I learned a lot too! I have always loved pirates since I was a kid and this story really brings the grim and fun nature of piracy to life!
I am definitely going to pick up the next book whenever it comes out and I hope more people tune into this one!

[Alexandra Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story I would highly recommend it to others that are into pirates, adventure, love, and vengeance! I really got sucked in with the diverse characters and their crazy adventure. Oh how it tugged on my heart strings... I can not wait for the next adventure!! I actually had the pleasure of meeting this new author at our small town Saturday morning market, and I am honored.

[Sabrina Santos · Rating 5 out of 5]

An easy, engaging read

A fun tale, easy to enjoy. Some loveable characters and a classic pirate treasure hunt. Save this one for when you want something easy to follow and pick up at night.

[Theresa Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! Loved it from start to finish. Ending was fantastic. Looking forward to the next book!

[Pranav Kasturi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A captivating read that much like the titular vessel, takes you on a journey to places unexpected and wondrous. I await more from these characters

[Heidi R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story line, and I'm looking forward to the next installment

[Jennifer Denihan]

I love the way this was written from each character's point of view. I did not want to put it down. Can't wait to read the next one.

[Kevin Brazil · Rating 4 out of 5]

Long but good, I liked the characters in the love triangle. The plot was fun and action-packed, with a cool fortune teller, pirates, magic, and a bit Bermuda Triangle fun! A nice twist at the end.