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Two worlds. One destiny. A love that defies the tides of time.

Modern-day treasure hunter Desi Starr has spent her life searching for lost shipwrecks—and for meaning in a life scarred by tragedy. But when she discovers an ancient ring in the depths of the Caribbean, she is thrust back in time—into a world of cannon fire, treachery, and the arms of Captain Caleb Hyde, a privateer haunted by his past and hunted by his enemies.

Caleb has fought for his crew, his ship, and his soul, but nothing prepared him for the mysterious woman who appears from the sea like a living dream. Caught between two timelines and hunted by enemies in both, Desi and Caleb must protect the Ring of Solomon, a relic of unspeakable power, from falling into evil hands.

Past and present collide in a powerful battle between light and darkness as Desi, torn between two worlds, faces an impossible choice. Yet both she and Caleb must learn to trust God’s plan to protect a love that shouldn’t exist—and a Ring that could change the course of history forever.

371 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 16, 2026

15 people are currently reading
37 people want to read

About the author

MaryLu Tyndall

58 books994 followers
A Christy Award finalist and winner of two Inspirational Readers’ Choice awards, MaryLu Tyndall dreamt of tall ships and swashbuckling heroes during her childhood years on Florida’s Atlantic Coast. She holds a degree in Math and worked as a software engineer for fifteen years before she penned her first novel. Now, with more than twenty-five books published, she makes her home in California with her husband, six children, four grandchildren and various stray cats. Her hope is that readers will not only be entertained but will be brought closer to the Creator who loves them beyond measure. For more information, visit her website at marylutyndall.com

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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
5 reviews
January 7, 2026
Marylu Tyndall 's book, The Sentinel is Phenomenon!! This is my review of this adventurous, piratey, romantic, Holy Spirit filled novel,and I have to point out that all of her books are Phenomenon and you can feel Him throughout the pages.

The present day-
It's a sunny day off the coast of Florida. Desi Starr was dangling her feet in the thirty-foot dive foot boat, anticipating diving into the deep, cold waters to explore the once sunken ship that she at least thought it was a sunken ship. Maybe she would have more time to explore. She plunged into the deep waters, past the coral reef. Her heart beat faster as she drew near close to the silhouette of a sunken pirate ship named the Sentinel? An iron ring seemed to be pulling her to its direction. "Oh!This relic will help will help me business thrive!", so she thought. She clamped her fingers around the ring...pressure all around her, then puff! She was on the deck of the Sentinel, the sunken ship that she had just found. The year was 1718 and she was in the Caribbean still in her wetsuit!
Desi"s eyes drifted to the quarter deck and saw Him! The captain with his coat flaring in the wind, sunlight caught the bronze hilt at his hilt.
The captain's sea-blue eyes fixed upon Desi's. She felt the world shift between her. Recognition flared between them. It wasn't his face, but his soul. She saw something in his eyes, something ancient, something that sped time and space. She felt it. He felt.
Desi heard this man, whose name was, Caleb Hyde, say, "You found me." The ring slipped and he was gone.
Present Day'-
Will Desi Starr ever see Caleb Hyde, the pirate, again? Why did her soul know him? If she dives back to where she found the ring(King Soloman's Ring) , would it be there. Would it bring her back to him? What about her sister, Daria? Who would take care of her for she was ver sick? Desi went to her room, opens her grandfather's journals and her hands start to tremble. The pages within the journal were written with her handwriting!
1718
Caleb Hyde clenched his jaw as he remembered Her. Her eyes haunted him...deep sea-blue eyes. Would he find, see her again? Little did he know that darkness was aboard his ship. Was the power from this ring? Maybe. Was this power more powerful than the power within Caleb? Absolutely Not! Within this time-line book you will experience the love that Marylu has for our Savior, the LordJesus Christ. Power in the Holy Spir. All of Marylu's books are packed full of the Holy Spirit. If you want to know the ending of this amazing story, you will need to purchase this e-book yourself, which you will be able to do shortly.
Profile Image for Hopefulwords.
41 reviews4 followers
January 16, 2026
One word: epic! From the first chapter, this book feels like a high budget movie, only better because, alongside adventure and a thread of suspense, it is also Faith-filled. Perfectly paced with edge-of-your-seat plot twists that had me reading late into the night, I can only say that the storytelling is masterful.

As expected, this story contains spiritual warfare, and I love how this author weaves spiritual themes through events and choices! It is an incredible reminder of verses like Ephesians 6:12. The themes in this particular story are relatable in so many ways — the struggle to forgive ourselves, the battle to see ourselves as He sees us when we are in His Son, and also the fight when we don’t understand.

But that’s not all. This story is very cleverly written, and beneath the adversaries, including self-doubt and disappointment, there’s a sneaky part that really makes you think. The FMC is an unbeliever at the start, but the MMC, a Christian, is not deterred. It doesn’t occur to him to consider the implications of being unequally yoked. This element felt intentionally absent, especially due to what the MMC is going through. The need for discernment forms part of this layered story. I’ll say it again, this story is very cleverly written, and at times, the book of Job came to mind.

How does it end? That I won’t say 😉 However, I will say that the story is incredible, I loved it, and I’m loving this series! I would read the next one now if I could.

Content:
-Strong Faith themes
-Intimacy level: Kisses Only
-Language: Religious terms in French | Some vague references to intimacy (they are pirates)
-One character practices v*odoo

*I received a complimentary eARC from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Tamara Tilley.
Author 10 books23 followers
January 18, 2026
THE SENTINEL, by MaryLu Tyndall, will challenge and stretch your imagination but in a way that you are willing to put all practically aside. Book two in the Legacy of the King’s Ring series, THE SENTINEL, combines the epic drama that comes from a swashbuckling pirate’s tale and the ever-mystical idea of time travel.

Desiree (Desi) Starr enjoys her life as a dive instructor and an amateur treasure hunter. However, when recovery a ring from a sunken pirate ship she is transported back in time to the very same ship in 1718, in the midst of a seafaring battle.

Captain Caleb Hyde is shocked to find a bizarrely dressed woman on the deck of his ship while he does his best to outrun a foe. Not knowing what to make of this woman who magically appeared on his ship, he refuses to believe she is a witch or a ghost or the other nonsense his crew chooses to label her as. However, when the strange woman produces the Ring of Solomon, the very powerful ring Caleb has hidden in the floorboards of his quarters, he doesn’t know what to make of her; other than she is a thief and needs to be dealt with.

What ensues is a powerful tale of good vs evil, right vs wrong, and lost vs sacrifice. Desi needs to decide what her future holds. Must she make the leap back to the future so she can save her dying sister? Or listen to her heart and choose to stay in the past with a pirate captain she has comes to love?

I don’t know how MaryLu Tyndall continues to churn out pirate tales that keep readers on the edge of their seat. Though this narrative takes a little more imagination due to the time travel aspect, THE SENTINEL is everything an action/adventure/romance should be. The action is vibrant and daring, the adventure captivates and draws you in, and the chemistry between Desi and Caleb pulls at the heartstrings of true romantics.

Another unique talent of this author is the worlds in which she creates. Everything can be imagined in the reader’s mind. The secondary characters have depth and personalities that round out the story, giving it life and vitality. You can sense the limp of the ship’s doctor. You can hear the brogue of the Irish boatswain. You can feel the loyalty of the captain’s crew as they do their best to stay on course and fight the good fight against evil both physical and spiritual. MaryLu Tyndall is a true wordsmith that brings meaning to every story she writes. Her writing is immersive, inviting readers to dive into the swashbuckling adventures of her heroes and heroines. I for one will always partake in the journey.

I received an ARC and was not required to write a positive review. I received no monies or discount. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Melissa’s Bookshelf.
2,555 reviews177 followers
January 25, 2026
Pirates & privateers, love across time, a mystical ring, a compelling redemption arc, & plenty of action & adventure make The Sentinel a thrilling read! MaryLu Tyndall weaves an engaging enemies-to-more, instant-attraction, time-slip romance filled with faith, redemption, & learning to trust God. I found myself eagerly turning the pages with every new twist.

When Desi Starr discovers an ancient ring during a treasure-seeking ocean dive, she’s suddenly thrust back to the 1700s—onto a ship under attack. The moment the handsome captain notices the ring, he accuses her of stealing it. Unable to explain her presence or modern diving outfit, Desi’s imprisoned aboard the ship. As she struggles to understand her new reality, she finds herself drawn to the intriguing Captain Caleb, whose faith & chivalry impress her despite her modern sensibilities. But Desi’s heart is torn: in her own time, her sister desperately needs a kidney transplant, forcing Desi to choose between the man she’s falling in love with & the sister who needs her.

Captain Caleb Hyde’s on a mission to destroy the ring—an artifact believed to have belonged to King Solomon & to wield unearthly power. Haunted by his past & bound by a promise to his father, he must stay ahead of dangerous enemies who seek the ring for dark purposes. Desi’s sudden appearance turns his world upside down. He’s seen her in his dreams & feels an immediate connection, but can he convince her to stay in his time—& can they fulfill their mission before their enemies destroy them?

I thoroughly loved this story & Desi’s & Caleb’s swoon-worthy romance. Desi blames God for the loss of her parents & her sister’s illness, & I loved watching her journey from blaming God to discovering the power of prayer. I also appreciated Caleb’s struggle between trusting God or relying on the ring’s instant but costly power. Memorable side characters, including wise first mate Alden & the ship’s doctor, add heart & depth. The ring’s pursuers wield dark powers, fueling a compelling battle between good & evil.

Highly recommended! Though part of a series, it’s easily read as a standalone. I received an advanced copy from the author with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily. 4-4.5 stars!
1 review
January 16, 2026
The Sentinel is a captivating tale full of faith, adventure, love and fantasy. Usually I avoid spoilers like the plague but I feel inclined to speak on a character fully and it may give elements away; so please be warned if you keep reading.

The character of Caleb spoke to my heart so heavily through his journey. Caleb grew up in a Christ centered home and always believed in the Lord and his power; however past events left Caleb crippled with fear that God could no longer use him. I was rooting for Caleb and his relationship with the Lord above all else. He still greatly loved the Lord and knew that God is all powerful but yet he kept trying to lean on his own understanding and his own abilities. I grew up in a Christian home and my love for the Lord has never wavered but there have been moments where I've tried to do things myself rather than placing those things where they belong in my father's hands. Caleb's growth was such a wonderful reminder that God can use his children in any season of life and through unthinkable circumstances.

My second favorite character was Alden, Caleb's fist mate! He was there encouraging Caleb to reach out to God and rely upon Him. He was a friend like Aaron and Hur were to Abraham in the book of Joshua holding up Abraham's arms until the battle was won. Alden didn't always agree with the actions that Caleb did but he stayed by his side and was a constant arrow pointing him back to God!

I love the driving message of this book that "with God all things are possible", we can never be reminded of that enough. It can been so easy just to see it as a Sunday School memory verse but if we actually take time to contemplate and meditate on those words... ALL things... not 'some' or 'small' things, but ALL things are possible through Christ! We can not put a limit on our savior for He will always do far more than we could think or imagine! I highly recommend this book especially if you need to bolster your own faith that God can use you to further his kingdom!

*I received a complimentary eARC from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
27 reviews
January 16, 2026
MaryLu Tyndall is a favorite author. I have/or have read all of her books, but The Legacy of the King’s Pirates series is still my favorite. I was delighted that this latest novel continues as a type of branch off that family tree.

I don’t want to give anything away, so my comments will be limited. The mystery, intrigue, unanswered questions leave the reader wondering if/how all the loose threads can be resolved.

From the first chapter we are immersed in the echo of memories, foreshadowings, souls’ longings, deep calling to deep. There are several really lovely literary elements that rank this novel well above the average. It is worth reading for that alone, but the story is definitely worth it.

Caleb and his ship the Sentinel are on a mission from his father to destroy The Ring, which has supernatural powers but always comes with a great cost. There are themes of light vs darkness, good vs evil, interwoven with storms, demonic attacks, healings, old betrayals and injuries that hold Caleb captive to a deeply shaken faith. He has lost confidence in his relationship with God, and even to an extent in God Himself. Under a false burden of guilt, and believing God has abandoned him, Caleb struggles with and succumbs to the temptation in moments of dire peril to use the Ring’s power rather than call on God, who has supernaturally rescued him in the past. In that sense the novel is about the universal struggle to trust God in faith or trust in some other entity.

The time bending, in both reality and dreams serves not only as a plot device but as a unifying element tying Desi and Caleb’s story together. We understand Desi's desire to remain in the present to help her dying sister with expensive medical care, but it conflicts with her longing to remain in the past with Caleb, a timeless love spanning centuries.

And the Ring? Yes.

It appears there will be another in the series, coming fall of 2026. I will be pre-ordering.

I was provided an ARC, but this review is entirely my own.
Profile Image for Melody.
4 reviews
January 16, 2026
Wow. I’ve been a long-time fan of MaryLu Tyndall, and this just might be my favorite story yet.

I wasn’t sure about the premise at first since I don’t care for modern settings and I expected a lot of the story to be set in present day, but the book description still intrigued me and it turned out that the majority of it took place in the past. The scenes that happened in the present were very interesting and did not lose my attention one bit!

THE CAST OF CHARACTERS - amazing, endearing, perfect. I loved them all!! Sometimes it can be exhausting learning about a whole new set of characters when reading a new book, but by the end of this story, I was completely invested in each of them and wanted to be a part of the crew on the Sentinel. I FELT like I was a part of the crew by the end!

The hero and heroine were the perfect amount of righteous/admirable and troubled/struggling with their own personal sins. It’s important for faith-based stories to show both sides of the coin, because no human can be perfect, but at the same time, readers want to fall in love with the main characters and be inspired by their courage and kindness. I feel extremely inspired by these protagonists, and energized to trust more fully in the Lord. As I have mentioned in previous reviews for MaryLu’s books, sometimes the miracles are overly-fantasized for the sake of the story, but that doesn’t lessen my desire to have the level of faith that these characters have when facing adversity. In real life, I may not be able to move physical mountains (or command a storm to go away), but the allegory of moving spiritual mountains is clearly portrayed in the fantastical drama of The Sentinel. AND it’s so much fun to read!

Thank you, MaryLu, for another great story that I will definitely read again someday!!!

I received a complimentary ARC by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Amanda Hoskin.
4 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 9, 2026
"I had the great pleasure of reading MaryLu's newest book The Sentinel in her Legend of the King's Ring series and let me tell you I was not disappointed. This will sound crazy, but reading this new thrilling adventure made me feel so nostalgic. I say this because I've always deeply enjoyed MaryLu's Legacy of the King's Pirates series since they were some of the best pirate books I've ever read and was therefore completely devastated when it ended. To have that special series live on through the children/grandchildren of some of my favorite characters from that series within this new one warms my heart. In this particular story, the main hero Captain Caleb Hyde reminded me so much of his grandfather Captain Edmund Merrick since both are very brave, commanding, expert swordsmen and most importantly fought hard for the women they love no matter what. Hence the nostalgia for me. However, his journey also included fighting demons, betrayal, loss of faith and learning forgiveness which made me appreciate him all the more. He's the perfect match for our present day heroine Desi who is independent, passionate and selfless. Best of all, when she's transported to the past by a powerful ring she somehow keeps her wits about her and manages to survive a time that's so vastly different from her own. Honestly, I highly recommend not only this fantastic book, but all of MaryLu Tyndall's books as they have great detail, nail-biting adventure and exceptional character development. You'll be hooked from start to finish."
1 review
January 23, 2026
The Sentinel is Sensational!

So excited, a true page turner!! Stayed up way too late many nights to read what would happen to our Desi and our hero Caleb and his swashbuckling ways. Would she stay or would she go?

Oh MaryLu you did it again. How can we thank you for your hard work, I know you love the Lord with all your heart it shows on every page. Your research and understanding of the ways of the times makes me feel as if I’m standing on the deck of that ship. I smell the sea and feel the spray of the ocean as the ship rolls over the waves. Thank you for taking me back to that time. Swashbuckling, ships, the sea, swords, honor, loyalty and heroes, it’s all here in The Sentinel, Book 2 of The King’s Ring. The best yet.

I love how you brought us all back to see the older characters from books before, where it all began!!
I think I’ll go back and reread for the 3 or 4th time the series where it all began!!

Yes!! All things are possible to those who love the Lord!!

MaryLu your books have entertained & lifted me so many times! I’ve read most all your books and the ones I’ve read point us to His saving Grace! Our Heavenly Father who loves us all. Thank you.

May our Heavenly Father continue to bless you with many more inspiring and adventurous books to come.
Looking forward to #3…
219 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
January 7, 2026
This series just keeps getting better. This is the second book in this series, while you might not need to read them in order. I would suggest that if you want to know the backstory of a few characters that are mentioned within this one, to start with the first one. Desi Starr goes out on her boat to dive for sunken ships, and on this particular dive she finds one. She also finds a ring that when she picks it up, she finds herself transported back in time. She winds up on a pirate's ship in the middle of the ocean, but when she drops the ring she is transported back to her time. What is so special about this ring that still shines after being in the ocean for over four hundred years? How can it take Desi back in time and then bring her back again? Captain Caleb Hyde is in shock when a woman appears on his ship and disappears just as quick. This story had me turning the pages as fast as I could. I thoroughly enjoyed how the author combined both the past and present, while still shining a light on how to put God first in everything. I can't wait for the next book in this amazing series. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed are what I thought of the book.
8 reviews
January 16, 2026
The Sentinel is the second book in the Legend of the King’s Ring series by MaryLu Tyndall, following Captain Caleb Hyde from the 1700s and Desiree Starr of present-day. I absolutely loved journeying on this romantic, swashbuckling adventure across time!

Desi never expected to be swept back in time upon finding a Ring buried within a shipwreck off the coast of Florida. She lands on Captain Caleb’s ship and makes the real acquaintance of a man whose face she’s seen before in her dreams. The pair of them are delightful to envision as they interact with one another, face many perils, and bridge the gap between the ages. Each of them brings along fears and doubts in themselves and God, which allow the reader to reflect upon their own life and where they may lack faith – I know I did!

Yet again, Ms. Tyndall has composed a beautiful tale that demonstrates how God’s ways are higher than our ways, His thoughts higher than our thoughts. This book is exciting, adventurous, and endearing, and ultimately helps the reader connect with the Lord.

I highly recommend this book!

I received an ARC & was not required to write a positive review. I received no monies or discounts.
Profile Image for DianFlow.
442 reviews46 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 14, 2026
Ahoy, me hearties! Blimey! Typically time travel novels aren't my thing, mates . . . unless they're written by the greatest author of pirate books ever, MaryLu Tyndall! How she keeps all the nautical, shipboard details straight, I'll never know—unless she's a privateer herself. And after traveling the high seas on The Sentinel's journey many centuries past, one has to wonder. 😉

Be prepared to have your senses assaulted with the scent of fresh, briny sea air, nefarious, malodorous pirates, the floral and spicy scents of exotic Caribbean islands—and get ready for intense, heartracing excitement between the spiritual forces of good vs. evil.

Incredibly angsty for seemingly star-crossed lovers, beautiful Desi Starr and the charming, honorable Captain Caleb Hyde, as they both hail from different worlds centuries apart—The Sentinel is the perfect read to kick off the new year!

*I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a positive review.*
16 reviews
January 17, 2026
Another swashbuckling adventure from MaryLu Tyndall! This is the second book in the Legend of the King’s Ring series that has family members that tie into Legacy of the King’s Pirates series. Filled with action and suspense, Caleb and Desi’s story was definitely interesting with the time travel element and it kept you guessing about the ripples in time that were made from choices in the past. This author knows how to write a story that immerses you entirely to make you think you’re there in the story with the characters. The imagery is very descriptive. The faith interwoven in this story doesn’t feel forced; it feels relatable.
MaryLu Tyndall is one of my favorite authors, and I would definitely recommend this book. This book is a clan read with no explicit scenes or language.

I received an advanced reader copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Lisa.
1,105 reviews51 followers
January 18, 2026
Desi Starr has been searching for a shipwreck that her grandfather charged her to find. Strange things begin to happen when she locates the ship and finds a beautiful glowing ring on the deck. When she comes into contact with the piece of jewelry she is instantly transported to 1718 and is caught in the middle of a battle. There was quite a bit of action and made for an exciting read. I enjoyed this story of good vs. evil and the way in which Desi and Captain Caleb Hyde were able to complete the mission that his family has given him to rid the world of the Ring of Solomon.

This is the second book in the Legend of the King’s Ring. I believe it would have given me more context to the story if I had read the first book. However, it can also be read as a standalone.

I received a copy of the book but was not obligated to write a positive review.
Profile Image for Dana Michael.
1,412 reviews185 followers
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
January 16, 2026
The Sentinel by Ms. Tyndall was such a fun escape from reality. I love her books. She has handsome swashbuckling pirates and gutsy heroines that ride the high seas. This particular story is a time travel book. The heroine, Desi is in present time and finds a sunken ship while diving. She discovers a ring and it transports her back in time to the 1700s. She meets the handsome captain, Caleb Hyde and all sorts of shenanigans begins. This makes for a page turning read. There is spiritual warfare and I would describe the book as This Present Darkness meets The Pirates of the Caribbean. It ended the way I love it... Happily ever after.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author, and this is my honest opinion.
82 reviews2 followers
January 17, 2026
I typically don’t read books or watch movies where a character travels in time. However, this book had me hooked from the beginning. I enjoyed the wholesome, clean action and romance. I could empathize with Desi as she struggled to make her decisions. I was eager to finish the book to see how it all ended. My favorite character was probably Alden, as he stayed faithful to God, while fulfilling his promise to Caleb’s father and encouraging Caleb to turn to God with his problems.
I received an eARC of this book for my honest review.
Profile Image for Melmo2610.
3,657 reviews
January 21, 2026
I really enjoyed this story! The twists and turns kept me guessing, and the last 25% of the story I could not put down. I don’t read a ton of fantasy/time travel but this one was really fun!

I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Carol Lee.
691 reviews7 followers
January 17, 2026
A very enjoyable book that encompasses two timelines. The main characters have to protect Solomon's ring and keep the relic from falling into the wrong hands. It was interesting to see how the characters connected and how their pathways crossed. A very good read.
Profile Image for Mimi.
794 reviews119 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 29, 2026
What a thoroughly fun story! Reading this series has reminded me how much I a) love MaryLu's books and b) how enjoyable pirate stories are.

This one was was a time travel story which I wasn't expecting (I don't read book summaries)! Desi is doing a dive when she finds King Solomon's ring and travels back through time to 1718! Imagine showing up there in scuba gear.

On the flip side, imagine being the captain of a ship when a woman appears on said ship dressed the way Desi was. Captain Caleb Hyde and his crew were beyond freaked out to say the least. hahahaha

I loved Desi and her commitment to her sister... a sister whose health is precarious. Unfortunately, or maybe fortunately, her time spent with Caleb draws her to his time, which is away from her sister. Talk about conflict of the heart!

Caleb on the other hand struggles with everything the ring represents to him and his family! He needs to destroy it, but there's also a lot of power in that ring. Both of them have to keep the ring of out of the wrong hands in both timelines and it's fascinating when their worlds collide.

Needless to say, I couldn't get enough of the faith element in the story. It's always so strong in the author's books and I couldn't appreciate it more.

*I was given an ebook ARC of the book. This is my personal opinion.
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