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Lies Buried In The Sea
Raised behind palace walls and promised to a brutal prince she doesn’t love, Princess Adalyn Wellington thought she knew her fate until a pirate crashes into her life with a blade at her throat and a claim to her hand.
Once a royal knight, Caden Fletcher was promised the princess as a reward for saving the king’s life. Instead, he was betrayed and cast out. Now he’s back as a pirate to collect what is rightfully his. And if Adalyn refuses to go with him, he’ll spill royal blood before the sun rises, starting with hers…
But nothing is as it seems when the princess finally wakes up on the pirate’s ship after being kidnapped. In a kingdom built on secrets, Adalyn must untangle truth from lies and decide who the real enemy is… before her heart makes a terrible mistake she can’t undo.
He came to claim a debt.
She never expected to lose her heart in return.
Once a royal knight, Caden Fletcher was promised the princess as a reward for saving the king’s life. Instead, he was betrayed and cast out. Now he’s back as a pirate to collect what is rightfully his. And if Adalyn refuses to go with him, he’ll spill royal blood before the sun rises, starting with hers…
But nothing is as it seems when the princess finally wakes up on the pirate’s ship after being kidnapped. In a kingdom built on secrets, Adalyn must untangle truth from lies and decide who the real enemy is… before her heart makes a terrible mistake she can’t undo.
He came to claim a debt.
She never expected to lose her heart in return.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 6, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
March 15, 2026
⋆｡°✩ 3/5 ⋆｡°✩
This is a book that i have been waiting for!
did it deliver? yes and no
When anything suprising or cute or scary OR WHATEVER happens in any book i usually reacted in my head. DAMN for this book i was actually reacting out loud.
like what do you mean she jumped off the ship to escape and he went after her? 🫢
or just any conversation, i swear i reacted so often.
and
!spoiler alert ahead!
When Caden had to reveal the big secret about the king i was expecting something little, but NOT ADALYNS FATHER gave me goosebumps like, yeah i wasnt exepcting that.
ugh i loved Adalyn and Caden tho. 😔
Caden definetly had a better personality than Adalyn, at some points she got really annoying.
i read this in one sitting and this was the kinda book that you'd go "just one more chapter".
-the banter mwahh, fun and easy read 🤭
now your wondering why its a 3? heres why.
-Some bits were repetitive. ESPECIALLY caden and adalyns conversations, at the start i was like yesss this is so good.. but then it was just the same thing but different words.
"your insufferable"
"your unbeliveable"
"i hate you" 😮💨
okay girl we get it
-Then there a lot of grammatical errors whether its spelling or punctuation, now i dont know if sarah had an editor but i know shes self published so i dont blame her, and i myself have horrible spelling when writing scentences, so i can imagine how hard it would be to do 278 pages
especially the speech it'd look something like this:
so here would be the story or words "
here the dialouge"
(so the quotation marks)
and often i'd get confused on who's talking:
"I hate you" he laughs
but the fmc is speaking? that confused me a bit.
Then
-it LACKED depth and detail, yk what sometimes i dont mind since i wanna just finish the book.. i dont know about this one like there werent any major side characters, usually in pirate books we meet the crew, caden may have introduced two characters to adalyn and told her to go to them if she needs anything but that never happened.
i just wanted to get to know the crew. like all i knew was they havent had a woman on the ship in ages and they try take advantage of her.
wow sounds very welcoming considering this what caden and adalyn will be staying on for the rest of their lives.
some bits felt rushed.
-Overuse of words, like chuckled i know there were a few more, but i cant think of them off the top of my head rn.
DO YOU KNOW WHAT ELSE CONFUSED ME?
SHE WANTED TO ESCAPE THE CASTLE AND ALL, SHE DOESN'T WANT TO MARRY PRINCE DAMIEN BUT WHEN SHE GETS TAKEN OR KIDNAPPED BY CADEN AWAY FROM THE KINGDOM SHES DOING EVERYTHING TO ESCAPE? LIKE HELLO GIRL WHAT HAPPENED TO THAT? DID SHE FORGET THAT SHE HATED IT BACK THERE? 😭
SHE SHOULDNT HAVE FOUGHT CADEN WHEN HE TRIED TO TAKE HER. ISNT THIS WHAT YOU WANTED?
-can we also talk about how he was 14 and she was JUST born? crazy right? i didnt until towards the end, i feel like the author shouldve put age gap as one of tropes, because i hate this one (altough i probably still would've read it becauseeee i liked all the other tropes)
and the ending.. like adalyn and caden shouldve become king and queen but leave someone in place when they go out and sail.. i dont know yall i dont trust some random people to rule 😭
and where are they gonna go?
idk im like that... i always think about what happens AFTER the book ends.
ANYWAYS
i would still reccomend this book guys!!!!
READ IT OKAY?
CAUSE ITS FUN AND CUTE
and caden is fine 🤭
OH MY GOD AND THE "WHO DID THIS TO YOU?"
he cares for adalyn a lot
i just wish adalyn tended his wounds as well.
okay.
i should stop.
SERIOUSLY READ THIS. READ IT. IDC READ IT.
thank you sarah for such an amazing book. KEEP IT UP BECAUSE I WILL READ ANOTHER ROMANTASY IF YOU WRITE ONE IN HOPES FOR IMPROVEMENT 💞❤️🙈
This is a book that i have been waiting for!
did it deliver? yes and no
When anything suprising or cute or scary OR WHATEVER happens in any book i usually reacted in my head. DAMN for this book i was actually reacting out loud.
like what do you mean she jumped off the ship to escape and he went after her? 🫢
or just any conversation, i swear i reacted so often.
and
!spoiler alert ahead!
When Caden had to reveal the big secret about the king i was expecting something little, but NOT ADALYNS FATHER gave me goosebumps like, yeah i wasnt exepcting that.
ugh i loved Adalyn and Caden tho. 😔
Caden definetly had a better personality than Adalyn, at some points she got really annoying.
i read this in one sitting and this was the kinda book that you'd go "just one more chapter".
-the banter mwahh, fun and easy read 🤭
now your wondering why its a 3? heres why.
-Some bits were repetitive. ESPECIALLY caden and adalyns conversations, at the start i was like yesss this is so good.. but then it was just the same thing but different words.
"your insufferable"
"your unbeliveable"
"i hate you" 😮💨
okay girl we get it
-Then there a lot of grammatical errors whether its spelling or punctuation, now i dont know if sarah had an editor but i know shes self published so i dont blame her, and i myself have horrible spelling when writing scentences, so i can imagine how hard it would be to do 278 pages
especially the speech it'd look something like this:
so here would be the story or words "
here the dialouge"
(so the quotation marks)
and often i'd get confused on who's talking:
"I hate you" he laughs
but the fmc is speaking? that confused me a bit.
Then
-it LACKED depth and detail, yk what sometimes i dont mind since i wanna just finish the book.. i dont know about this one like there werent any major side characters, usually in pirate books we meet the crew, caden may have introduced two characters to adalyn and told her to go to them if she needs anything but that never happened.
i just wanted to get to know the crew. like all i knew was they havent had a woman on the ship in ages and they try take advantage of her.
wow sounds very welcoming considering this what caden and adalyn will be staying on for the rest of their lives.
some bits felt rushed.
-Overuse of words, like chuckled i know there were a few more, but i cant think of them off the top of my head rn.
DO YOU KNOW WHAT ELSE CONFUSED ME?
SHE WANTED TO ESCAPE THE CASTLE AND ALL, SHE DOESN'T WANT TO MARRY PRINCE DAMIEN BUT WHEN SHE GETS TAKEN OR KIDNAPPED BY CADEN AWAY FROM THE KINGDOM SHES DOING EVERYTHING TO ESCAPE? LIKE HELLO GIRL WHAT HAPPENED TO THAT? DID SHE FORGET THAT SHE HATED IT BACK THERE? 😭
SHE SHOULDNT HAVE FOUGHT CADEN WHEN HE TRIED TO TAKE HER. ISNT THIS WHAT YOU WANTED?
-can we also talk about how he was 14 and she was JUST born? crazy right? i didnt until towards the end, i feel like the author shouldve put age gap as one of tropes, because i hate this one (altough i probably still would've read it becauseeee i liked all the other tropes)
and the ending.. like adalyn and caden shouldve become king and queen but leave someone in place when they go out and sail.. i dont know yall i dont trust some random people to rule 😭
and where are they gonna go?
idk im like that... i always think about what happens AFTER the book ends.
ANYWAYS
i would still reccomend this book guys!!!!
READ IT OKAY?
CAUSE ITS FUN AND CUTE
and caden is fine 🤭
OH MY GOD AND THE "WHO DID THIS TO YOU?"
he cares for adalyn a lot
i just wish adalyn tended his wounds as well.
okay.
i should stop.
SERIOUSLY READ THIS. READ IT. IDC READ IT.
thank you sarah for such an amazing book. KEEP IT UP BECAUSE I WILL READ ANOTHER ROMANTASY IF YOU WRITE ONE IN HOPES FOR IMPROVEMENT 💞❤️🙈
April 13, 2026
Like 2.5 ⭐️, I liked the idea of it but the execution was a MESS.
First of all, there are so many grammatical and formatting errors. Did this book not have an editor?? How does that even happen?? One or two I understand, but having CONSISTENT formatting issues throughout the entire book?? Sometimes I couldn't even tell who was talking or who was reacting.
Second of all, the dialogue was soooo repetitive, especially during Adalyn's inner dialogue and the banter between the two of them. For Adalyn, it was a constant "they want to break me, but I'll show them that I won't be broken" or "they want me submissive, but i'll show them the fire in me" ... and she did nothing. NOTHING. She literally didn't do anything, like, at all. Lowkey parts of this, especially during Prince Damians chapters, read like a mafia romance which it is NOT.
Which brings me to my last point, everyone lacks depth. They're either cruel, or they have a big secret, or they're forced to be submissive when they actually have a fire in them ... like what? The big reveal, while it wasn't what I was expecting, wasn't even all that. The whole revenge plot is based on the fact that Adalyn was promised to Caden but the king went back on his promise and cast him aside ... yuck? Like he's soo upset that the king broke his promise of giving his daughter to her, but he also champions Adalyn being her own person ... pick a side dude! How can you be upset that you don't get the woman you were promised but then argue that "she isn't owned by anyone, she's not a pawn" ???
Anywho, kinda disappointed. I liked Caden's flirty side and some of his dialogue but other than that, meh.
First of all, there are so many grammatical and formatting errors. Did this book not have an editor?? How does that even happen?? One or two I understand, but having CONSISTENT formatting issues throughout the entire book?? Sometimes I couldn't even tell who was talking or who was reacting.
Second of all, the dialogue was soooo repetitive, especially during Adalyn's inner dialogue and the banter between the two of them. For Adalyn, it was a constant "they want to break me, but I'll show them that I won't be broken" or "they want me submissive, but i'll show them the fire in me" ... and she did nothing. NOTHING. She literally didn't do anything, like, at all. Lowkey parts of this, especially during Prince Damians chapters, read like a mafia romance which it is NOT.
Which brings me to my last point, everyone lacks depth. They're either cruel, or they have a big secret, or they're forced to be submissive when they actually have a fire in them ... like what? The big reveal, while it wasn't what I was expecting, wasn't even all that. The whole revenge plot is based on the fact that Adalyn was promised to Caden but the king went back on his promise and cast him aside ... yuck? Like he's soo upset that the king broke his promise of giving his daughter to her, but he also champions Adalyn being her own person ... pick a side dude! How can you be upset that you don't get the woman you were promised but then argue that "she isn't owned by anyone, she's not a pawn" ???
Anywho, kinda disappointed. I liked Caden's flirty side and some of his dialogue but other than that, meh.
March 15, 2026
Lies Buried In The Sea | 3.5☆ 🌊🏴☠️🗡️
This was a quick and fun read that I enjoyed. I wish the banter was better and that there was more slow burn between Adalyn and Caden. There wasn’t much emotional build up so there was a lack of chemistry between the two of them. I loved the setting though and still had a good time reading this! ♡
This was a quick and fun read that I enjoyed. I wish the banter was better and that there was more slow burn between Adalyn and Caden. There wasn’t much emotional build up so there was a lack of chemistry between the two of them. I loved the setting though and still had a good time reading this! ♡
March 6, 2026
Lies Buried In the Sea by Madleen Sarah
Release date:March 6th
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Age rating:15+
Spice:fade to black
Thank you Madleen for this arc! Yall this book was SO FUN! One thing about me is I absolutely adore pirates, so as soon as I heard about this book I knew I had to read it. I loved Adalyn and Caden so much, and their banter had me giggling many many times. Their romance was so good, and I enjoyed how it was an actual enemies to lovers in the beginning. The plot was interesting, and my attention was held the whole time. I couldn’t put it down. The twist had me gasping I was flabbergasted, and I loved the ending. I definitely recommend if you’re a fan of pirates lol, the mmc definitely gives Captain Jack Sparrow vibes (which is just what I needed). Go check this one out!
Release date:March 6th
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Age rating:15+
Spice:fade to black
Thank you Madleen for this arc! Yall this book was SO FUN! One thing about me is I absolutely adore pirates, so as soon as I heard about this book I knew I had to read it. I loved Adalyn and Caden so much, and their banter had me giggling many many times. Their romance was so good, and I enjoyed how it was an actual enemies to lovers in the beginning. The plot was interesting, and my attention was held the whole time. I couldn’t put it down. The twist had me gasping I was flabbergasted, and I loved the ending. I definitely recommend if you’re a fan of pirates lol, the mmc definitely gives Captain Jack Sparrow vibes (which is just what I needed). Go check this one out!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Madleen for giving me the opportunity to read this amazing book ꨄ
This book feels like the moment right before the sun rises at a beach or watching the sun set by a boat covered in lights. The main character is so lovable. Adalyn is sensitive but also very wise. Two traits not all characters have, for example our antagonist Damian and Aldric. While they are annoying they can also be funny at times. Especially Damian when he's jealous.
Which happens quite a lot thanks too our MMC Caden!!
I swear he's the perfect amount of condescending and kind. I think he's perfect for the girls that like their boys annoying ✩
- I was just the right audience for this book and if you love a good fantasy with romance you should give it a try!!
I didn't mean to read it all that fast but it was impossible to put down ࣪ ִֶָ☾.
This book feels like the moment right before the sun rises at a beach or watching the sun set by a boat covered in lights. The main character is so lovable. Adalyn is sensitive but also very wise. Two traits not all characters have, for example our antagonist Damian and Aldric. While they are annoying they can also be funny at times. Especially Damian when he's jealous.
Which happens quite a lot thanks too our MMC Caden!!
I swear he's the perfect amount of condescending and kind. I think he's perfect for the girls that like their boys annoying ✩
- I was just the right audience for this book and if you love a good fantasy with romance you should give it a try!!
I didn't mean to read it all that fast but it was impossible to put down ࣪ ִֶָ☾.
May 20, 2026
“They call him a pirate, a traitor, a thief...I call him mine.”
I’m just gonna leave this quote here… 😐
It got two stars because I lowkey love a pirate book, but I’m not gonna lie this was a hard read even for me. It basically had every trope in existence.
✨arranged marriage
✨kidnapping
✨enemies to lovers
✨”who did this to you?”
The list goes on.
I’m just gonna leave this quote here… 😐
It got two stars because I lowkey love a pirate book, but I’m not gonna lie this was a hard read even for me. It basically had every trope in existence.
✨arranged marriage
✨kidnapping
✨enemies to lovers
✨”who did this to you?”
The list goes on.
June 13, 2026
Is it just me or did this book read like it was written by AI?
March 30, 2026
Great concept, messy execution
September 7, 2026
Ça commençait bien, même très bien.
Mais tout s’est enchaîné trop vite et j’ai trouvé le développement bâclé. C’est dommage.
On sent que l’auteur a voulu s’inspirer des autres sagas de fantasy, mais la qualité en était loin.
Et tout ça pour même pas une petite scène sympa (🌶️, si vous voyez ce que je veux dire). Ma déception n’est que plus grande.
Mais tout s’est enchaîné trop vite et j’ai trouvé le développement bâclé. C’est dommage.
On sent que l’auteur a voulu s’inspirer des autres sagas de fantasy, mais la qualité en était loin.
Et tout ça pour même pas une petite scène sympa (🌶️, si vous voyez ce que je veux dire). Ma déception n’est que plus grande.
March 24, 2026
The plot and characters had so much potential BUT THE WRITING OMG. This book had the most wattpady y/n fanfiction writing ever.
March 16, 2026
I freaking can't stop smiling reading this book. Madleen Sarah has always made me go all over smiling, blushing, kicking my legs in the air with all her books. I love the little detailing; every chapter has a little art or doodle after every chapter no.
Caden & Adalyn are the best; you can't stop yourself from falling in love with them. One time they're teasing each other, then they're fighting, then they're having banter, & then they're going all crazy & protective for each other. I can't get enough of them😍 The banter is🔥 The way both are arguing on everything & still can't stop themselves from talking is🔥.
What I was doing mostly while reading this beautiful masterpiece is Aww😍 Wow😲 Oh my God,is it really happening?🫣 Feeling every emotion at the same point. What made it more incredible is how dangerously both Caden & Adalyn were standing strong & fighting with everything & everyone.
Caden & Adalyn are the best; you can't stop yourself from falling in love with them. One time they're teasing each other, then they're fighting, then they're having banter, & then they're going all crazy & protective for each other. I can't get enough of them😍 The banter is🔥 The way both are arguing on everything & still can't stop themselves from talking is🔥.
What I was doing mostly while reading this beautiful masterpiece is Aww😍 Wow😲 Oh my God,is it really happening?🫣 Feeling every emotion at the same point. What made it more incredible is how dangerously both Caden & Adalyn were standing strong & fighting with everything & everyone.
March 15, 2026
4.5⭐️
Binged this princess x pirate love story 🤭
I pretty much didn’t want to put it down. The characters were interesting, absolutely loved the multiple POVs, the vibe was super cool.
Adalyn is a strong fmc and I’m in awe of her braveness. Then let’s talk about Caden 🤭 he’s so dreamy and just the best!! The slow-burn angst between them was chefs kiss! Also there are plot-twists to come, and lots of drama along the way.
If you guys enjoy Romantasy vibed slow burns, prates, and princesses… you’re gonna love this one!!
Thank you so much to Madleen Sarah for the ARC 🩵
Binged this princess x pirate love story 🤭
I pretty much didn’t want to put it down. The characters were interesting, absolutely loved the multiple POVs, the vibe was super cool.
Adalyn is a strong fmc and I’m in awe of her braveness. Then let’s talk about Caden 🤭 he’s so dreamy and just the best!! The slow-burn angst between them was chefs kiss! Also there are plot-twists to come, and lots of drama along the way.
If you guys enjoy Romantasy vibed slow burns, prates, and princesses… you’re gonna love this one!!
Thank you so much to Madleen Sarah for the ARC 🩵
July 27, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ This book was so intense with the yearning, banter, twists and battles. The lies that King Aldric kept is mind boggling. Pirate Caden was the most perfect character to be the one who drove the lies to the surface as he is determined and won't back down from a fight with his crooked smirk. This book has twists and turns but most importantly the most heartwarming romance. Multiple Pov's and check your TW as there is an abusive relationship
May 9, 2026
“You stab me, I offer you my bed. I must be going soft.”
This book won’t be for everyone, but it truly swept me away <3 Specifically, the banter, especially in the first hundred pages, had me thinking of that clip of Sabrina Carpenter biting her finger lol anyway, I had a jolly good time and quickly sailed my way through this tale xo
This book won’t be for everyone, but it truly swept me away <3 Specifically, the banter, especially in the first hundred pages, had me thinking of that clip of Sabrina Carpenter biting her finger lol anyway, I had a jolly good time and quickly sailed my way through this tale xo
March 20, 2026
5 stars isn't even enough. I have always been a sucker for pirate romances. I read this in 3 days. It got me out of a reading slump and put me back in one. if that makes sense. The plot twist at the end. oh my god. Couldn't stop smiling. And listened to the Playlist all the way through.
September 3, 2026
I hate not finishing a book, but 10 pages in and I feel like AI wrote this. The sentence structure is ridiculous and the characters have no personality. I need to stick to reading books published before AI😭
June 10, 2026
Pretty good. It could have had a bit more plot overall but definitely a solid read.
October 7, 2026
I love the idea for the actual story I think it is really well thought out. However i physically couldn’t bring myself to finish it because the grammar just made absolutely no sense, there was no indication in which each character was speaking and the word golden/gold was said quite a lot . I do get that writing is incredibly difficult and takes so much effort to actually publish, so it breaks my heart when people with really good ideas can’t execute it to its fullest potential. All this said, I think Madleen could one day be an incredible author whose books I would be eager to purchase.
March 21, 2026
before you read, im not discouraging you from reading, I enjoyed the book, im just ranting about what I was annoyed with.
the resolution before the epilogue was too week for me.
They made this whole mess and dramatic moment for the most idiotic and insignificant lie to ever unravel in Royal history.
honestly, if you read lots of books with royalty themes and like to read about history like me you know they are corrupt, in real life and in the fiction world. so for lie they "expose" to be so minor? omg!?
1. he made it out to be like the biggest scandal to ever exist? he also made it out to be the most devious monstrous thing a royal can do? which it really isn't????
he said "the lie he built his throne upon" the king literally did not???? the lie came after the throne? wtf? he maintained the throne sure, but build? so dramatic honestly.
2. her reaction was somewhat valid tbh, tho she was a bit over the top, we will ignore it because wtf was what? she needs a spa day.
3. she was stabbed???? by the drugged prince???? who had a concussion???? fuck the prince tbh.
again im so angry that the lie was so insightful.
we also do not find anything out about what happens to the kingdom now???????? do they elect a new ruler? do they become a democratic Republic? do they become a part of lightdreamsomething? idk the name of the other kingdom sryy.
what was the lie you ask????
she's not his daughter [omg how could he????]
he killed her real family [oh no a royal acting like a royal]
he lied to the MMC about marrying her when she came of age [I have so many issues with this point alone]
-> you are 14 years older than her why did you agree in the first place?
-> did you seriously expect that he would marry his "daughter" the princess to a knight? how stupid are you?
-> why are we acting as though it was such a big betrayal that the king lies about this? obviously he won't go through with this ridiculous promise.
THE PRINCE. OMG THE MOST ANNOYING DISGUSTING HUMAN EVER.
read the book im not saying dont, its a great book, the plot is well distributed and thought out *besides the main conflict*
the povs are smartly placed
and the writing is great besides one or two minor spelling or expressional mistakes, and the romance is there and cute and the banter is great, they were real enemies too which was great (loved the part where she stabbed him *heheheh*)
the resolution before the epilogue was too week for me.
They made this whole mess and dramatic moment for the most idiotic and insignificant lie to ever unravel in Royal history.
honestly, if you read lots of books with royalty themes and like to read about history like me you know they are corrupt, in real life and in the fiction world. so for lie they "expose" to be so minor? omg!?
1. he made it out to be like the biggest scandal to ever exist? he also made it out to be the most devious monstrous thing a royal can do? which it really isn't????
he said "the lie he built his throne upon" the king literally did not???? the lie came after the throne? wtf? he maintained the throne sure, but build? so dramatic honestly.
2. her reaction was somewhat valid tbh, tho she was a bit over the top, we will ignore it because wtf was what? she needs a spa day.
3. she was stabbed???? by the drugged prince???? who had a concussion???? fuck the prince tbh.
again im so angry that the lie was so insightful.
we also do not find anything out about what happens to the kingdom now???????? do they elect a new ruler? do they become a democratic Republic? do they become a part of lightdreamsomething? idk the name of the other kingdom sryy.
what was the lie you ask????
she's not his daughter [omg how could he????]
he killed her real family [oh no a royal acting like a royal]
he lied to the MMC about marrying her when she came of age [I have so many issues with this point alone]
-> you are 14 years older than her why did you agree in the first place?
-> did you seriously expect that he would marry his "daughter" the princess to a knight? how stupid are you?
-> why are we acting as though it was such a big betrayal that the king lies about this? obviously he won't go through with this ridiculous promise.
THE PRINCE. OMG THE MOST ANNOYING DISGUSTING HUMAN EVER.
read the book im not saying dont, its a great book, the plot is well distributed and thought out *besides the main conflict*
the povs are smartly placed
and the writing is great besides one or two minor spelling or expressional mistakes, and the romance is there and cute and the banter is great, they were real enemies too which was great (loved the part where she stabbed him *heheheh*)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2026
the best pirate book out there I swear
July 29, 2026
BOMBBBBB!!! Actually loved it! Loved all the twists and loved that she didnt stay royalty
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2026
This one was hard to go through since the beginning. I was bored. There’s no way there’s this many positive reviews.
The wording was off and a lot of repetition. Just in the first chapters there were so many sentences that had “as if ___” and I mean more than a couple. I began highlighting them. The last sentences of a chapter would be very telling instead of just showing. Characters would talk and you couldn’t tell that another person spoke after.
A lot of the characters felt flat. I didn’t know I would get POV from a couple characters besides the main ones, which was annoying because they didn’t bring anything else to the story. I couldn’t care less to have the POV of her dad.
When I reached the prince’s chapter I knew it wasn’t going to be interesting. When the prince described a letter with: “And no name. No signature. Just power.” Huh??? I knew I couldn’t keep reading.
The wording was off and a lot of repetition. Just in the first chapters there were so many sentences that had “as if ___” and I mean more than a couple. I began highlighting them. The last sentences of a chapter would be very telling instead of just showing. Characters would talk and you couldn’t tell that another person spoke after.
A lot of the characters felt flat. I didn’t know I would get POV from a couple characters besides the main ones, which was annoying because they didn’t bring anything else to the story. I couldn’t care less to have the POV of her dad.
When I reached the prince’s chapter I knew it wasn’t going to be interesting. When the prince described a letter with: “And no name. No signature. Just power.” Huh??? I knew I couldn’t keep reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I originally followed Madleen because we shared a love for books — I didn’t even realise she was an author at first. But when she started posting teasers about this story, I was hooked immediately. I signed up without hesitation. And let me just say: this book did not fail me. ⚓🌊
I’ve never read a pirate-and-princess story before, and I’m so glad this was my first. The pacing was strong, the world felt immersive, and the writing pulled me straight into the sea. I was completely captivated. 🌊✨
Adalyn? Fierce. Strong. Unapologetic. She stood her ground even when the men closest to her didn’t respect or acknowledge her strength. She knows her heart. She knows her worth. And she absolutely earns her place among my favourite FMCs — the kind who don’t shrink themselves for anyone. 👑
And then there’s our swoon-worthy Pirate-King, Caden. I’ll admit, I was nervous at first. A villain who gets the girl? I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to fall for him. But the way he challenged her, teased her, and flirted with her — while still respecting and protecting her — completely won me over. He gave me strong Damon Salvatore energy (yes, I said it), and I was obsessed. The banter? Perfect. The tension? Even better. I was giggling more than I expected. ⚔️🔥
If I’m being honest, I did anticipate a bigger secret toward the end — the buildup had me expecting something even larger. But even so, I had such a fun time reading this.
Overall, this was immersive, romantic, tension-filled, and such an enjoyable ride. I can’t wait for everyone else to read it. 🏴☠️🌊
And thank you to Madleen for giving me a chance to be one of the first readers of this book. I’m genuinely so grateful for the opportunity — it truly meant a lot. 🤍
⭐ 4.5 stars
I’ve never read a pirate-and-princess story before, and I’m so glad this was my first. The pacing was strong, the world felt immersive, and the writing pulled me straight into the sea. I was completely captivated. 🌊✨
Adalyn? Fierce. Strong. Unapologetic. She stood her ground even when the men closest to her didn’t respect or acknowledge her strength. She knows her heart. She knows her worth. And she absolutely earns her place among my favourite FMCs — the kind who don’t shrink themselves for anyone. 👑
And then there’s our swoon-worthy Pirate-King, Caden. I’ll admit, I was nervous at first. A villain who gets the girl? I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to fall for him. But the way he challenged her, teased her, and flirted with her — while still respecting and protecting her — completely won me over. He gave me strong Damon Salvatore energy (yes, I said it), and I was obsessed. The banter? Perfect. The tension? Even better. I was giggling more than I expected. ⚔️🔥
If I’m being honest, I did anticipate a bigger secret toward the end — the buildup had me expecting something even larger. But even so, I had such a fun time reading this.
Overall, this was immersive, romantic, tension-filled, and such an enjoyable ride. I can’t wait for everyone else to read it. 🏴☠️🌊
And thank you to Madleen for giving me a chance to be one of the first readers of this book. I’m genuinely so grateful for the opportunity — it truly meant a lot. 🤍
⭐ 4.5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5 stars
First of all, can we talk about how insanely pretty this cover is? Absolutely stunning. I was already obsessed before even starting the book.
Secondly… this book is SO freaking good. I am genuinely obsessed. I don’t usually read fantasy, and pirate romance is completely new territory for me, but if I ever had to convince someone to start reading fantasy, this would be the book I’d recommend without hesitation. I will be screaming about this story to everyone.
The banter? Top tier. The chemistry between Caden and Adalyn? Amazing.
What I loved most was how Caden always gave her a choice. The way he constantly made sure she decided things for herself showed how much he truly understood and respected her. And excuse me, this man protected her, cleaned her wounds, and stood by her even when he himself was injured. Please, where do we find men like this in real life?
The teasing, the flirting, and how effortlessly smooth he is made every interaction so fun to read. Pirates are apparently very charming, because Caden definitely charmed me.
My only small critique is that a few parts felt slightly rushed. Otherwise, this book is absolutely top tier. And yes, we were ROBBED of spicy scenes(Madleen why would you do this to us 😭) but honestly the chemistry and playful tension more than made up for it.
AND THAT PLOT TWIST AT THE END. I loved it. It had that dramatic and slightly Bollywood-style reveal, and honestly, who doesn’t love a twist like that?
Overall, this was an addictive and incredibly fun read that completely surprised me and pulled me into a genre I don’t usually pick up. I cannot wait for everyone to experience this story when it releases.
First of all, can we talk about how insanely pretty this cover is? Absolutely stunning. I was already obsessed before even starting the book.
Secondly… this book is SO freaking good. I am genuinely obsessed. I don’t usually read fantasy, and pirate romance is completely new territory for me, but if I ever had to convince someone to start reading fantasy, this would be the book I’d recommend without hesitation. I will be screaming about this story to everyone.
The banter? Top tier. The chemistry between Caden and Adalyn? Amazing.
What I loved most was how Caden always gave her a choice. The way he constantly made sure she decided things for herself showed how much he truly understood and respected her. And excuse me, this man protected her, cleaned her wounds, and stood by her even when he himself was injured. Please, where do we find men like this in real life?
The teasing, the flirting, and how effortlessly smooth he is made every interaction so fun to read. Pirates are apparently very charming, because Caden definitely charmed me.
My only small critique is that a few parts felt slightly rushed. Otherwise, this book is absolutely top tier. And yes, we were ROBBED of spicy scenes(Madleen why would you do this to us 😭) but honestly the chemistry and playful tension more than made up for it.
AND THAT PLOT TWIST AT THE END. I loved it. It had that dramatic and slightly Bollywood-style reveal, and honestly, who doesn’t love a twist like that?
Overall, this was an addictive and incredibly fun read that completely surprised me and pulled me into a genre I don’t usually pick up. I cannot wait for everyone to experience this story when it releases.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2026
The concept was great, execution not so great!
It was a fun and quick read don’t get me wrong but I have a few things to say.
It felt like every time our two main characters were having a conversation, the same 2 pieces of dialogue were being repeated 3 times in different words?? I’m thinking just to add length to the book. That in turn made me feel a lack of depth when it came to them. Like where is your personality?
We get it, you gonna make everyone regret underestimating you and he’s over here promising to never let anyone ever hurt you again all the timeeee.
Surprise surprise, she gets hurt by someone else another whopping 3 times after that! And then comes the same “no one will ever lay a hand on you again princess” WELL YOU KEEP LYING!
Then we had the grammatical errors. Definitely did not have an editor, maybe next time let’s do another read through. I understand some mistakes are bound to happen but it gets to a point where you’re like okay it’s getting excessive.
I was a little disappointed that we didn’t get any good side characters. Cayden introduced 2 people in his crew and we didn’t get ANYTHING from them. All we had was our main fmc’s ladies maid?? I can’t remember any of their names, that’s how insignificant they were.
Finally, that ending. I wasn’t expecting it but I honestly didn’t find it all that exciting. The secret Cayden held onto for 18 years just didn’t do it for me. Like I think everyone in that cathedral was waiting for his mic drop moment and it lowkey never came.
It was a fun and quick read don’t get me wrong but I have a few things to say.
It felt like every time our two main characters were having a conversation, the same 2 pieces of dialogue were being repeated 3 times in different words?? I’m thinking just to add length to the book. That in turn made me feel a lack of depth when it came to them. Like where is your personality?
We get it, you gonna make everyone regret underestimating you and he’s over here promising to never let anyone ever hurt you again all the timeeee.
Surprise surprise, she gets hurt by someone else another whopping 3 times after that! And then comes the same “no one will ever lay a hand on you again princess” WELL YOU KEEP LYING!
Then we had the grammatical errors. Definitely did not have an editor, maybe next time let’s do another read through. I understand some mistakes are bound to happen but it gets to a point where you’re like okay it’s getting excessive.
I was a little disappointed that we didn’t get any good side characters. Cayden introduced 2 people in his crew and we didn’t get ANYTHING from them. All we had was our main fmc’s ladies maid?? I can’t remember any of their names, that’s how insignificant they were.
Finally, that ending. I wasn’t expecting it but I honestly didn’t find it all that exciting. The secret Cayden held onto for 18 years just didn’t do it for me. Like I think everyone in that cathedral was waiting for his mic drop moment and it lowkey never came.
June 16, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌊🗡️✨ absolutely devoured this one ✨🗡️🌊
A princess, pirates, forbidden feelings, and the kind of slow burn that keeps you turning pages way past bedtime 🤍
I was completely obsessed with the atmosphere of this book. The multiple POVs made everything feel so immersive, and every chapter left me needing just one more. 🫶🏻
Adalyn quickly became one of my favorite FMCs. She’s fierce, resilient, and has such a beautiful strength that makes you root for her from the very beginning. 👑✨
And Caden… where do I even start? 🫠⚓️
He’s charming, protective, and the tension between them had me screaming internally. Their chemistry is everything, and the yearning?? absolutely unmatched. 🤍
There were moments that made me smile, moments that shattered my heart, and twists I never saw coming. The drama, the romance, and the adventure blended together perfectly. 🌙
If you love:
☁️ romantasy
⚓️ pirates
👑 princesses
🤍 slow-burn romance
✨ angst and tension
🌊 unforgettable characters
…then trust me, this book deserves a spot on your TBR. I already miss these characters and would happily sail back into this world all over again. 🫶🏻📖✨
🌊🗡️✨ absolutely devoured this one ✨🗡️🌊
A princess, pirates, forbidden feelings, and the kind of slow burn that keeps you turning pages way past bedtime 🤍
I was completely obsessed with the atmosphere of this book. The multiple POVs made everything feel so immersive, and every chapter left me needing just one more. 🫶🏻
Adalyn quickly became one of my favorite FMCs. She’s fierce, resilient, and has such a beautiful strength that makes you root for her from the very beginning. 👑✨
And Caden… where do I even start? 🫠⚓️
He’s charming, protective, and the tension between them had me screaming internally. Their chemistry is everything, and the yearning?? absolutely unmatched. 🤍
There were moments that made me smile, moments that shattered my heart, and twists I never saw coming. The drama, the romance, and the adventure blended together perfectly. 🌙
If you love:
☁️ romantasy
⚓️ pirates
👑 princesses
🤍 slow-burn romance
✨ angst and tension
🌊 unforgettable characters
…then trust me, this book deserves a spot on your TBR. I already miss these characters and would happily sail back into this world all over again. 🫶🏻📖✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
I think I’m officially in love with Madleen’s writing 🤭
Reasons I think you’ll love Lies Buried in the Sea 🌊 :
🌊:fast paced fantasy
🐚: multiple pov
🏴☠️: pirates
🌊: enemies to lovers
🐚: the BANTER 💞💞
🏴☠️: did I mention pirates??
We follow two characters: Adalyn, a princess forced into an arranged marriage she doesn’t want and Caden, a disgraced knight turned pirate hell bent on getting revenge on the king who broke him promise. I LOVED these characters, they were very well done!!
The world building was easy to understand although the romance was more of the main plot. The romance between Caden and Adalyn wasn’t as slow burn as I usually enjoy, but for a stand-alone it’s completely understandable. And it didn’t change the fact that they had me kicking my feet in bed or pulling my phone out so I could read this at work 😆
Madleen is a very talented writer and I’ll definitely be reading more of her work from here on 🙌
Reasons I think you’ll love Lies Buried in the Sea 🌊 :
🌊:fast paced fantasy
🐚: multiple pov
🏴☠️: pirates
🌊: enemies to lovers
🐚: the BANTER 💞💞
🏴☠️: did I mention pirates??
We follow two characters: Adalyn, a princess forced into an arranged marriage she doesn’t want and Caden, a disgraced knight turned pirate hell bent on getting revenge on the king who broke him promise. I LOVED these characters, they were very well done!!
The world building was easy to understand although the romance was more of the main plot. The romance between Caden and Adalyn wasn’t as slow burn as I usually enjoy, but for a stand-alone it’s completely understandable. And it didn’t change the fact that they had me kicking my feet in bed or pulling my phone out so I could read this at work 😆
Madleen is a very talented writer and I’ll definitely be reading more of her work from here on 🙌
August 21, 2026
(DNF)
Which part of Kindle Unlimited was this hiding in?!
I’d like to avoid that section in the future.
This book feels repetitive and the character have the depth of a piece of paper. Just so you have a taste of how much repetitive this was, I'm going to compare it with a little kid that have just learned a new word and repeats it over and over, all the time, at every hour.
In addition, the multiple points of view add nothing to the plot, they just add pages to the book.
And don't get me wrong, I liked the concept.... The way it was made was horrible. Plenty of grammatical errors, dialogues where you can't distinguish who is talking to who... It almost feel like AI, though I want to think good of the author.
Furthermore, for the little I read and knowing the debt the king owed him, it felt unenthusiastic to keep reading. I would have been so much better if the reader didn't know about it.
This book was a disappointment 😔
Which part of Kindle Unlimited was this hiding in?!
I’d like to avoid that section in the future.
This book feels repetitive and the character have the depth of a piece of paper. Just so you have a taste of how much repetitive this was, I'm going to compare it with a little kid that have just learned a new word and repeats it over and over, all the time, at every hour.
In addition, the multiple points of view add nothing to the plot, they just add pages to the book.
And don't get me wrong, I liked the concept.... The way it was made was horrible. Plenty of grammatical errors, dialogues where you can't distinguish who is talking to who... It almost feel like AI, though I want to think good of the author.
Furthermore, for the little I read and knowing the debt the king owed him, it felt unenthusiastic to keep reading. I would have been so much better if the reader didn't know about it.
This book was a disappointment 😔
Review of advance copy received from Author
🌊🏴☠️⚔️👑
ARC REVIEW:
i want to thank madleen for giving me the opportunity to be one of the first people to read the book, im so grateful.
OHHH THIS BOOK!!! this book had me from the very first page, i was immediately hooked and captivated by the story, you will not be able to stop reading it, because i couldn’t.
the characters are so perfect and well writing, i looooveeee the FMC dearly, she’s such a strong girl who knew what she wanted.
don’t even get me started on the MMC, because that man is the STANDARD, ugh im so obsessed with him.
the banter between the two was so amazing and i kept giggling reading about it, they are just oh so perfect.
the story is so well paced and i was so invested in the secrets.
i had such a fun time reading this book and can’t wait for everyone to read it too.
thank you so much again, madleen.
so much love.🤍
ARC REVIEW:
i want to thank madleen for giving me the opportunity to be one of the first people to read the book, im so grateful.
OHHH THIS BOOK!!! this book had me from the very first page, i was immediately hooked and captivated by the story, you will not be able to stop reading it, because i couldn’t.
the characters are so perfect and well writing, i looooveeee the FMC dearly, she’s such a strong girl who knew what she wanted.
don’t even get me started on the MMC, because that man is the STANDARD, ugh im so obsessed with him.
the banter between the two was so amazing and i kept giggling reading about it, they are just oh so perfect.
the story is so well paced and i was so invested in the secrets.
i had such a fun time reading this book and can’t wait for everyone to read it too.
thank you so much again, madleen.
so much love.🤍
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this romantasy book! The banter, the setting, the characters, and the secrets were all so interesting and so good. I loved Caden and Adalyn's banter and loved Adalyn's fierce yet soft personality. Caden's protective nature and his flirty personality were so, so good. Definitely read this book if you love romantasy, pirates, action, secrets, flirty MMCs, and royalty. Thank you so much, Madleen, for the ARC.
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