What do you think?
Rate this book
Pirates & Courtiers
lssanka is a casteless runaway amongst pirates, using her powers over light and sound to aid the ship-stealers. But even in exile, she can't forget llian - a powerful and enigmatic figure who could manipulate minds and conceal his identity. When an old ally pleads for her return to the city of Ewele – the city she swore she'd never go back to - lssanka is torn. But the opportunity to learn more about her powers proves too tempting to ignore. Now, lssanka must learn from her old enemy - and she must figure out what his plans are for Ewele before war swallows them all.
Paperback
Published February 28, 2026
About the author
Gabrielle Davis
2 books46 followersGabrielle Davis is a fantasy author and sometimes lawyer living in Queensland. Her debut novel, Road to Freedom, is a YA fantasy adventure about a casteless urchin whose powers put her at the middle of a mystery where civil war hangs in the balance. Shortlisted in the Hawkeye Publishing Manuscript Development Prize 2021 and 2022, Road to Freedom is a tale of complex characters, swords and daggers, and shadow mysteries. When she is not writing (or reading) she is most often found exploring nature, practising yoga, or petting dogs.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
March 1, 2026
Pirates and Courtiers the second book in the road to freedom series, was such a fun read! We follow our FMC Issanka who now has new found magic unlike any other (except for 1 other person (you guessed it our bad guy).
She’s now across the ocean from where she was originally, stealing ships and living life, until an old ally from back home seeks her return.
She joins a band of pirates among their ship, a bunch of morally grey men (what else do you expect from pirates).
Now she must return and learn to embrace her new found skills… will there be war or can Issanka prevent it?
If you are a fan of:
Pirates
Magic
Classes (of people)
Being taught to harness magic
Then this is a book for you!
She’s now across the ocean from where she was originally, stealing ships and living life, until an old ally from back home seeks her return.
She joins a band of pirates among their ship, a bunch of morally grey men (what else do you expect from pirates).
Now she must return and learn to embrace her new found skills… will there be war or can Issanka prevent it?
If you are a fan of:
Pirates
Magic
Classes (of people)
Being taught to harness magic
Then this is a book for you!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Pirates and Courtiers is set in a world of magic and intrigue unlike any other. Gabrielle Davis has masterfully woven a complex and exciting narrative web. Action packed, picturesque and fearless, I couldn’t put this book down. Davis’s writing is immersive, poetic; flowing in a way that will keep your eyes glued to the page.
Issanka is a casteless runaway on a pirate ship with a crew of very dubious and morally grey characters who, though we're not necessarily supposed trust them, I kind of came to like. For a while, anyway.
One of the best things about this book is the magic. Issanka’s ability to manipulate shadows and light is so intriguing and original, and this becomes even more fiery with Ilian, the powerful figure who relates to Issanka through bloodline, and claims to want to teach and help her better understand her powers. He draws her in, along with her crew with terrifying and bloody consequences.
The idea of ‘morally grey characters’ interests me because Issanka seems so pure. No spoilers, but what she does near the end of the book had me jumping up and down yelling, ‘WHAT?!?’ Just wait, it’s amazing and shows the fresh, yet deep approach of Davis’s storytelling genius.
I’m now on the edge of my seat waiting for the last instalment of this trilogy, because I know that literally anything could happen.
My favourite quotes:
‘Ask questions even when you understand perfectly. This will make him think you less intelligent than you are and fill him with confidence.’ (p117) – because strong, kick-ass, cunning women are represented so poignantly in this series, and I love this particular scheme. I also love how Davis creates strong female bonds.
‘In the dust kicked up in the carriage’s wake, tiny carousels of light winked in and out of existence.’ (p146) – because this is an example of how breathtakingly poetic and beautiful Davis’s writing is.
Gabrielle Davis is a master of this genre, and this series is an absolute must read.
Issanka is a casteless runaway on a pirate ship with a crew of very dubious and morally grey characters who, though we're not necessarily supposed trust them, I kind of came to like. For a while, anyway.
One of the best things about this book is the magic. Issanka’s ability to manipulate shadows and light is so intriguing and original, and this becomes even more fiery with Ilian, the powerful figure who relates to Issanka through bloodline, and claims to want to teach and help her better understand her powers. He draws her in, along with her crew with terrifying and bloody consequences.
The idea of ‘morally grey characters’ interests me because Issanka seems so pure. No spoilers, but what she does near the end of the book had me jumping up and down yelling, ‘WHAT?!?’ Just wait, it’s amazing and shows the fresh, yet deep approach of Davis’s storytelling genius.
I’m now on the edge of my seat waiting for the last instalment of this trilogy, because I know that literally anything could happen.
My favourite quotes:
‘Ask questions even when you understand perfectly. This will make him think you less intelligent than you are and fill him with confidence.’ (p117) – because strong, kick-ass, cunning women are represented so poignantly in this series, and I love this particular scheme. I also love how Davis creates strong female bonds.
‘In the dust kicked up in the carriage’s wake, tiny carousels of light winked in and out of existence.’ (p146) – because this is an example of how breathtakingly poetic and beautiful Davis’s writing is.
Gabrielle Davis is a master of this genre, and this series is an absolute must read.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.5 ⭐
“I thought there was only light and dark, but now … now I see the layers of grey in between.”
I was so immersed the entire time — the kind of immersed where you can picture every scene, feel the atmosphere, and forget you’re even reading. The writing is vivid and confident, with such beautiful attention to detail: the smells, the movement, the quiet moments between action. Every setting feels intentional and alive, like you’re standing right there inside the world.
The magic system is especially fascinating. It’s unique, layered, and thoughtfully explained in a way that feels organic rather than overwhelming. I loved how it unfolds naturally through the story, adding depth and tension without ever pulling you out of the moment. It feels like I'm learning how to harness the abilities alongside Issanka.
I loved seeing Issanka after the time skip. She feels more calculated, more grounded, and so strong — not in a 'loud' way, but in a way that comes from experience and the people she surrounds herself with. The friendships in this book are everything, and they add so much heart, depth and pain to the story.
Shanti is such a fun and charasmatic character. I loved her storytelling and every moment she was on the page. I'm having second thoughts on Hugo... don't even get me started on Ilian. BUT Marcusius… I’m very intrigued. I need more of him in the next book immediately.
This was such an engaging, emotionally satisfying read, and I genuinely didn’t want it to end.
Thank you so much to Hawkeye Publishing and Gabrielle Davis for the opportunity to read this ARC cant wait for the next!!
“I thought there was only light and dark, but now … now I see the layers of grey in between.”
I was so immersed the entire time — the kind of immersed where you can picture every scene, feel the atmosphere, and forget you’re even reading. The writing is vivid and confident, with such beautiful attention to detail: the smells, the movement, the quiet moments between action. Every setting feels intentional and alive, like you’re standing right there inside the world.
The magic system is especially fascinating. It’s unique, layered, and thoughtfully explained in a way that feels organic rather than overwhelming. I loved how it unfolds naturally through the story, adding depth and tension without ever pulling you out of the moment. It feels like I'm learning how to harness the abilities alongside Issanka.
I loved seeing Issanka after the time skip. She feels more calculated, more grounded, and so strong — not in a 'loud' way, but in a way that comes from experience and the people she surrounds herself with. The friendships in this book are everything, and they add so much heart, depth and pain to the story.
Shanti is such a fun and charasmatic character. I loved her storytelling and every moment she was on the page. I'm having second thoughts on Hugo... don't even get me started on Ilian. BUT Marcusius… I’m very intrigued. I need more of him in the next book immediately.
This was such an engaging, emotionally satisfying read, and I genuinely didn’t want it to end.
Thank you so much to Hawkeye Publishing and Gabrielle Davis for the opportunity to read this ARC cant wait for the next!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Pirates & Courtiers is an action-packed sequel to Road to Freedom that absolutely delivered for me.
Issanka continues her journey with Hugo, and this instalment deepens everything. The magical lore expands in meaningful ways, especially as Issanka explores and grows into her powers. There’s a strong sense of progression here, not just in plot, but in identity and understanding.
We’re reunited with familiar faces and introduced to new characters who add texture and tension to the story. The dynamic involving Ilian continues to simmer in complex ways. Even when Issanka would rather keep her distance, there’s an undeniable pull toward the knowledge he offers. That internal push and pull feels layered and compelling.
One of the things I appreciated most was the vivid writing. Every setting feels tangible. I could clearly picture the ships, the cities, the confrontations. The detail makes the world feel lived in rather than simply described.
And that ending. The twist lands with real impact. It left me sitting there for a moment, processing, and immediately wanting the next book in my hands.
I genuinely loved every page of this story.
I received this book as an ARC, however this review reflects my honest thoughts and feelings shared voluntarily.
Issanka continues her journey with Hugo, and this instalment deepens everything. The magical lore expands in meaningful ways, especially as Issanka explores and grows into her powers. There’s a strong sense of progression here, not just in plot, but in identity and understanding.
We’re reunited with familiar faces and introduced to new characters who add texture and tension to the story. The dynamic involving Ilian continues to simmer in complex ways. Even when Issanka would rather keep her distance, there’s an undeniable pull toward the knowledge he offers. That internal push and pull feels layered and compelling.
One of the things I appreciated most was the vivid writing. Every setting feels tangible. I could clearly picture the ships, the cities, the confrontations. The detail makes the world feel lived in rather than simply described.
And that ending. The twist lands with real impact. It left me sitting there for a moment, processing, and immediately wanting the next book in my hands.
I genuinely loved every page of this story.
I received this book as an ARC, however this review reflects my honest thoughts and feelings shared voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Pirates, magic, adventure and friendship - need I say anymore 🗺️
Gabrielle Davis has followed up her epic fantasy debut novel Road to Freedom with this sensational sequel - Pirates and Courtiers and you will not be disappointed with part 2 of Issanka’s action packed journey.
With some familiar faces from book one and some new friends along the way and a plot that will keep you guessing and hooked to the very end. A thrilling sequel to Road to Freedom, Issanka continues her journey of chaos and adventure. The story kept me guessing, just when I thought I knew what was coming next something changed and the story took me in a whole new direction. Issanka is a strong and feisty main character who rises to every challenge and grows and develops so much along the way.
If you love fantasy, magic, adventure or pirates this is for you! I cannot wait for the final installment to see how this trilogy ends.
A huge thank you to Hawkeye Publishing for providing me an advanced reader copy to provide my honest review prior to its release Feb 28.
Gabrielle Davis has followed up her epic fantasy debut novel Road to Freedom with this sensational sequel - Pirates and Courtiers and you will not be disappointed with part 2 of Issanka’s action packed journey.
With some familiar faces from book one and some new friends along the way and a plot that will keep you guessing and hooked to the very end. A thrilling sequel to Road to Freedom, Issanka continues her journey of chaos and adventure. The story kept me guessing, just when I thought I knew what was coming next something changed and the story took me in a whole new direction. Issanka is a strong and feisty main character who rises to every challenge and grows and develops so much along the way.
If you love fantasy, magic, adventure or pirates this is for you! I cannot wait for the final installment to see how this trilogy ends.
A huge thank you to Hawkeye Publishing for providing me an advanced reader copy to provide my honest review prior to its release Feb 28.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
🏴☠️ Pirates & Courtiers by @gabriellewritesfantasy 🦜
Treasure Island x The Witcher x Game of Thrones vibes
Pirates & Courtiers is the sequel to Road to Freedom by Gabrielle Davis. A YA fantasy adventure with a fascinating magic system, political machinations and treachery, found family, epic training and fighting scenes, and of course Pirates!
We are taken on a magical swashbuckling adventure as our FMC Issanka seeks vengeance with a treacherous plan. A spanner is thrown in the works when the land she returns to is not what it seems. Issanka is faced with difficult choices that could mean life or death, or turning on those she cares for most
We adored this book. We felt Gabrielle's prose and world building shone brightly as the story unfolded. Issanka's journey is filled with shades of grey, just like the rest of us, and we enjoyed following Issanka as she did her best to navigate through all trials and tribulations. Not to mention Ilian is such a delightfully devilish love to hate villian.
This is one not to miss.
Treasure Island x The Witcher x Game of Thrones vibes
Pirates & Courtiers is the sequel to Road to Freedom by Gabrielle Davis. A YA fantasy adventure with a fascinating magic system, political machinations and treachery, found family, epic training and fighting scenes, and of course Pirates!
We are taken on a magical swashbuckling adventure as our FMC Issanka seeks vengeance with a treacherous plan. A spanner is thrown in the works when the land she returns to is not what it seems. Issanka is faced with difficult choices that could mean life or death, or turning on those she cares for most
We adored this book. We felt Gabrielle's prose and world building shone brightly as the story unfolded. Issanka's journey is filled with shades of grey, just like the rest of us, and we enjoyed following Issanka as she did her best to navigate through all trials and tribulations. Not to mention Ilian is such a delightfully devilish love to hate villian.
This is one not to miss.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
This must read was a roller coaster. It had me questioning who the bad guys were, laughing out loud at sections that I could actually image with the imagery the words created, and twists that had me questioning things. The characters are relatable in a way that has you following their story, especially Isanka who took me through her emotions that are very real and understandable given her life. I enjoyed watching her grow into herself and realise how amazing she is and that it is amazing to have people in your corner. There are hints to secrets of things that might be seen in the third book - which I cannot wait to see unfold. Also, I think we need this book from Hugo's point of view because I have so many questions.
Great young adult fantasy book for anyone who likes adventure, magic, a kick-arse FMC, and power politics, where everyone is morally grey. Recommend!
Great young adult fantasy book for anyone who likes adventure, magic, a kick-arse FMC, and power politics, where everyone is morally grey. Recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I so enjoyed jumping back into this YA series.
Issanka has had to overcome so much to get here and it was a thrilling second instalment.
She has wanted to know about her powers for so long, and when the opportunity comes, she is in two minds.
Go back to a time she vowed never to return, or move forward and learn from one that she knows can ruin them all?
And what will she lose?
It's fun, sassy, swashbuckling, smart, magical and exciting.
There is so much to offer here.
⭐️Magic Training
⭐️Found Family
⭐️Dystopian Society
⭐️Political Intrigue
⭐️Smart FLC
⭐️Adventure
All in a series that sweeps you away and has you willing on this tribe of misfits.
And now the wait is on for the finale, book 3!
Issanka has had to overcome so much to get here and it was a thrilling second instalment.
She has wanted to know about her powers for so long, and when the opportunity comes, she is in two minds.
Go back to a time she vowed never to return, or move forward and learn from one that she knows can ruin them all?
And what will she lose?
It's fun, sassy, swashbuckling, smart, magical and exciting.
There is so much to offer here.
⭐️Magic Training
⭐️Found Family
⭐️Dystopian Society
⭐️Political Intrigue
⭐️Smart FLC
⭐️Adventure
All in a series that sweeps you away and has you willing on this tribe of misfits.
And now the wait is on for the finale, book 3!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received an ARC copy of this book and am offering my review voluntarily.
Pirates & Courtiers is a great sequel to the first book, exploring more of the magic system and world-building. I loved how the characters were developed to be more complex and all the little sensory details brought the world to life. I found some of the scenes/plot a little disjointed or unexplained and the ending seemed rushed after a slower pace for most of the book. But I loved the darker twist to this book, with Issanka facing some moral challenges and cruel adversaries. She is a compelling protagonist and I hope there is another sequel to see how things play out for her and to really see her come into her powers!
Pirates & Courtiers is a great sequel to the first book, exploring more of the magic system and world-building. I loved how the characters were developed to be more complex and all the little sensory details brought the world to life. I found some of the scenes/plot a little disjointed or unexplained and the ending seemed rushed after a slower pace for most of the book. But I loved the darker twist to this book, with Issanka facing some moral challenges and cruel adversaries. She is a compelling protagonist and I hope there is another sequel to see how things play out for her and to really see her come into her powers!
April 29, 2026
What a ride! I haven't read a series in forever, but my gosh how exciting to be drawn into Davis' fantastical world. I'm not ready to leave it...lucky there's a 3rd book coming:)
Issanka's growth as a character in this 2nd book is brilliant. The strength and confidence we watch her build is hard won and that makes it feel so darn authentic. This epic adventure has it all. It is action-packed and downright bloody, but also tender in its depiction of becoming.
I'm so ready for Issanka's next chapter.
Issanka's growth as a character in this 2nd book is brilliant. The strength and confidence we watch her build is hard won and that makes it feel so darn authentic. This epic adventure has it all. It is action-packed and downright bloody, but also tender in its depiction of becoming.
I'm so ready for Issanka's next chapter.
February 24, 2026
The story continues from Road to Freedom.
Issanka grapples with trying to do what is right to save her land and her friends. There is a lot of grey area around her decisions even though she is trying to do the right thing, which is refreshing, as no one is perfect.
Further exploration into Issanka’s magic that the reader learns along with the character. There is deception, political intrigue, battles and more.
I still have the same issues as I had with book 1, however this is a solid younger YA read that I’m sure many will enjoy.
Issanka grapples with trying to do what is right to save her land and her friends. There is a lot of grey area around her decisions even though she is trying to do the right thing, which is refreshing, as no one is perfect.
Further exploration into Issanka’s magic that the reader learns along with the character. There is deception, political intrigue, battles and more.
I still have the same issues as I had with book 1, however this is a solid younger YA read that I’m sure many will enjoy.
April 17, 2026
I was eagerly waiting for this sequel and it did NOT disappoint! Issanka continues to develop her powers, while also wrestling with tough choices that add real depth to the adventurous storyline. I love the chosen-family dynamics and Ilian is a fascinating villain who keeps you guessing. Even though there’s a lot of world building and cinematic imagery, the pacing never drags. Couldn’t put it down!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Pirates & Courtiers follows on from Road To Freedom where Issanka’s story starts.
I really enjoyed reading the way Issanka’s character evolves through out the whole story. The last few chapters had me hooked especially. For a YA story it was enjoyable and I look forward to hopefully what comes next for Issanka.
I really enjoyed reading the way Issanka’s character evolves through out the whole story. The last few chapters had me hooked especially. For a YA story it was enjoyable and I look forward to hopefully what comes next for Issanka.
March 17, 2026
I enjoyed this novel so much. Can't wait for the next one. Loved the story line and the magic system. Issanka was such a amazing character and a strong female lead. And so happy with the ending of Pirates & Courtiers. Strong friendships.
March 13, 2026
The magic in this book and how it is used in scenes is so creative and a joy to read! A great sequel with an amazing mix of intrigue, action and surprises. Can't wait for book 3.
March 26, 2026
This was a really engaging read, with significant momentum. The created world is full of fresh imagination and ideas. A compelling read!
April 7, 2026
Does everything you want a sequel to do, and it does it in spades. The world is expanded, the stakes are raised, and I was left chomping at the bit for the next one.
March 6, 2026
Now I’m going to keep this spoiler free because it is book 2 of the trilogy.
Now the writing did seem different to me at first. But soon realised it was because of how much time had passed and the world changed. It was a new norm.
With what was a very unique magic system in book 1 we’ll book 2 we saw this grow in a massive way that once again changes isankas path.
We already knew how much I loved this fmc and boy does she really go through it in this book.
Somewhat going back into secrecy with he she’s suppose to move forward. And faced with many impossible choices. And another cliffhanger to start the countdown for book 3
Now the writing did seem different to me at first. But soon realised it was because of how much time had passed and the world changed. It was a new norm.
With what was a very unique magic system in book 1 we’ll book 2 we saw this grow in a massive way that once again changes isankas path.
We already knew how much I loved this fmc and boy does she really go through it in this book.
Somewhat going back into secrecy with he she’s suppose to move forward. And faced with many impossible choices. And another cliffhanger to start the countdown for book 3
March 8, 2026
Pirates & Courtiers is book two in the Road to Freedom series where the stakes and the tension were high.
Issanka is done running, but is she ready to lead?
What to expect in terms of tropes:
🏴☠️ Ship-stealing pirates
✨ Complex magic
🏛️ Political intrigue
🤫 Secrets
🌑 Enemies-to-Teacher
🧡 Found family
I really enjoyed being back in Issanka’s world, with this book being a lot more political than the first. The moving chess pieces and feminine rage in this book so was good as Issanka stepped into her power more and backed herself and her abilities.
This is a YA read, but due to the polital side and the complex magic system I’d say it’s more for the older YA audience personally.
Thank you to @hawkeyepublishing and the author for a copy to read.
Issanka is done running, but is she ready to lead?
What to expect in terms of tropes:
🏴☠️ Ship-stealing pirates
✨ Complex magic
🏛️ Political intrigue
🤫 Secrets
🌑 Enemies-to-Teacher
🧡 Found family
I really enjoyed being back in Issanka’s world, with this book being a lot more political than the first. The moving chess pieces and feminine rage in this book so was good as Issanka stepped into her power more and backed herself and her abilities.
This is a YA read, but due to the polital side and the complex magic system I’d say it’s more for the older YA audience personally.
Thank you to @hawkeyepublishing and the author for a copy to read.
February 23, 2026
This was an arc from the author & publisher soo thank you!
Pirates & Courtiers Is the second book in this YA fantasy from Gabrielle. With a unique magic system, politics & some pirate adventure!
I really enjoyed this book! Again loving the world building that thrusts you in & makes you not want to leave. I also love the magic system, it's something different! I loved Issanka's growth & navigating her magic & all she had to overcome in this book!
Pirates & Courtiers Is the second book in this YA fantasy from Gabrielle. With a unique magic system, politics & some pirate adventure!
I really enjoyed this book! Again loving the world building that thrusts you in & makes you not want to leave. I also love the magic system, it's something different! I loved Issanka's growth & navigating her magic & all she had to overcome in this book!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews