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Firemane
She set sail to save her heart. She might lose her soul instead.
Sam Atherton was a thief by trade, but she never intended to be a pirate. When the boy who holds her heart is taken by a powerful ring of underground slavers known as the Lily Company, Sam will risk anything to bring him home.
Her desperate search leads her to the open sea, where a brutal pirate attack leaves her captured by the infamous Captain Kharzul. To survive among his ruthless crew, Sam must prove she belongs—learning to fight, steal, and navigate the brutal life of piracy. But the greatest threat isn't the ocean… It's Kensley, Kharzul’s sharp-tongued second-in-command. He’s dangerous, brilliant, and the only one who sees Sam for who she truly is.
With every battle, every choice, and every life she takes, Sam looks less like the girl who first set sail and more like the legend the seas will come to fear—the Firemane.
Now she must fight for the girl she once was or embrace the pirate she is becoming.
Why readers are diving into Firemane:
Pirates & high-seas adventureSlow-burn romanceMorally gray charactersFound familyNo spice / closed-door romance
A gripping YA fantasy perfect for fans of Fable and To Kill a Kingdom.
Sam Atherton was a thief by trade, but she never intended to be a pirate. When the boy who holds her heart is taken by a powerful ring of underground slavers known as the Lily Company, Sam will risk anything to bring him home.
Her desperate search leads her to the open sea, where a brutal pirate attack leaves her captured by the infamous Captain Kharzul. To survive among his ruthless crew, Sam must prove she belongs—learning to fight, steal, and navigate the brutal life of piracy. But the greatest threat isn't the ocean… It's Kensley, Kharzul’s sharp-tongued second-in-command. He’s dangerous, brilliant, and the only one who sees Sam for who she truly is.
With every battle, every choice, and every life she takes, Sam looks less like the girl who first set sail and more like the legend the seas will come to fear—the Firemane.
Now she must fight for the girl she once was or embrace the pirate she is becoming.
Why readers are diving into Firemane:
Pirates & high-seas adventureSlow-burn romanceMorally gray charactersFound familyNo spice / closed-door romance
A gripping YA fantasy perfect for fans of Fable and To Kill a Kingdom.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 15, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 18, 2026
But what do you mean the book is over?
When I tell you the prologue captured my attention instantly... the tendrils of this story literally wrapped themselves around me and completely sucked me in.
From the toils of life we follow Sam in her journey for vengeance. We follow her as her heart breaks and finds love in this slow burn, epic pirate story. This book is emotional, so well written and was an absolute joy to read.
Sam is forced to make life altering decisions to save herself and those she loves and the ending of this book hit me with an absolute cliffhanger, and I literally do not know where to go from here.
This book is every pirate girls dream, and if you were in love with the Pirates of the Caribbean, you will absolutely love this!
The romance wasn't awkward, and the tension!! The swoon, it made me so giddy and I loved every second of it!
This book is an easy 10 out of 5, and truly I cannot wait for book 2 to come out.
I am reviewing this as an ARC reader, which was received by the author!
When I tell you the prologue captured my attention instantly... the tendrils of this story literally wrapped themselves around me and completely sucked me in.
From the toils of life we follow Sam in her journey for vengeance. We follow her as her heart breaks and finds love in this slow burn, epic pirate story. This book is emotional, so well written and was an absolute joy to read.
Sam is forced to make life altering decisions to save herself and those she loves and the ending of this book hit me with an absolute cliffhanger, and I literally do not know where to go from here.
This book is every pirate girls dream, and if you were in love with the Pirates of the Caribbean, you will absolutely love this!
The romance wasn't awkward, and the tension!! The swoon, it made me so giddy and I loved every second of it!
This book is an easy 10 out of 5, and truly I cannot wait for book 2 to come out.
I am reviewing this as an ARC reader, which was received by the author!
June 11, 2026
Loved this read! I enjoyed seeing Sam navigate the changes in her life while learning, changing, and growing.
I loved the pirate and magical elements - I can see the Shadow and Bone vibe that it gives off. And who doesn’t like some romance?!
What a fun debut novel! It was so cool to read things ahead of time (I’ve never received an ARC for a book til now!) and explore a new world! Can’t wait to see what’s next. 😊😊
I loved the pirate and magical elements - I can see the Shadow and Bone vibe that it gives off. And who doesn’t like some romance?!
What a fun debut novel! It was so cool to read things ahead of time (I’ve never received an ARC for a book til now!) and explore a new world! Can’t wait to see what’s next. 😊😊
June 15, 2026
Pirates + magic + enemies to lovers + found family?? Firemane by Brianna J. Stephens had me fully embracing my pirate era. 🏴☠️✨
This book was such a fun adventure from start to finish. Between the pirate crews, treasure-hunting, magical elements, and slow-burn tension, I was completely invested in both the story and the characters. The found family dynamic was one of my favorite parts—it gave the story so much heart and made me care about every victory, loss, and risk these characters took along the way.
The pirate vibes had me fully embracing my Jack Sparrow era. 🏴☠️ There was just enough chaos, adventure, and danger to keep me turning pages, while the enemies-to-lovers tension slowly built with every interaction. I loved that the romance focused more on the emotional connection, trust, and character growth rather than spice. The adventure itself was just as addictive as the romance. Hidden secrets, unexpected twists, dangerous missions, and the constant search for treasure kept the story moving and made it impossible to know what was coming next. And can we talk about that ending?! THE CLIFFHANGER. 😭 I was not prepared. I finished the last page and immediately needed book two because there is absolutely no way I'm leaving these characters there.
If you love pirates, treasure hunts, found family, slow-burn romance, enemies-to-lovers tension, magic, adventure, and fantasy stories that leave you desperate for the next book, definitely add this one to your TBR.
🏴☠️✨ Officially in my pirate era and honestly? I never want to leave.
Espanol: Piratas + magia + enemies to lovers + familia encontrada? Firemane de Brianna J. Stephens me hizo entrar oficialmente en mi era pirata. 🏴☠️✨ Esta historia fue una aventura increíble de principio a fin. Entre las tripulaciones piratas, la búsqueda de tesoros, los elementos mágicos y la tensión del slow burn, terminé completamente atrapada por la historia y sus personajes. La dinámica de familia encontrada fue una de mis partes favoritas porque le dio muchísimo corazón a la historia y me hizo preocuparme por cada victoria, pérdida y riesgo que enfrentaban. Las vibras piratas me tuvieron viviendo mi mejor era de Jack Sparrow. 🏴☠️ Había la combinación perfecta de caos, aventura y peligro para mantenerme pasando páginas, mientras que la tensión enemies to lovers se desarrollaba poco a poco con cada interacción. Me encantó que el romance se enfocara más en la conexión emocional, la confianza y el crecimiento de los personajes que en el spice.La aventura fue igual de adictiva que el romance. Secretos ocultos, giros inesperados, misiones peligrosas y la constante búsqueda de tesoros hicieron que nunca supiera qué iba a pasar después. Y podemos hablar de ese final? ¡ESE CLIFFHANGER! 😭 No estaba preparada. Terminé la última página y automáticamente necesité el siguiente libro porque no hay forma de dejar a estos personajes en ese punto.
Si te gustan los piratas, las búsquedas de tesoros, la familia encontrada, los romances slow burn, la tensión enemies to lovers, la magia, las aventuras y las fantasías que te dejan desesperada por el siguiente libro, este definitivamente merece un lugar en tu TBR.
🏴☠️✨ Oficialmente estoy en mi era pirata y no quiero salir de ella. 📚❤️🔥
This book was such a fun adventure from start to finish. Between the pirate crews, treasure-hunting, magical elements, and slow-burn tension, I was completely invested in both the story and the characters. The found family dynamic was one of my favorite parts—it gave the story so much heart and made me care about every victory, loss, and risk these characters took along the way.
The pirate vibes had me fully embracing my Jack Sparrow era. 🏴☠️ There was just enough chaos, adventure, and danger to keep me turning pages, while the enemies-to-lovers tension slowly built with every interaction. I loved that the romance focused more on the emotional connection, trust, and character growth rather than spice. The adventure itself was just as addictive as the romance. Hidden secrets, unexpected twists, dangerous missions, and the constant search for treasure kept the story moving and made it impossible to know what was coming next. And can we talk about that ending?! THE CLIFFHANGER. 😭 I was not prepared. I finished the last page and immediately needed book two because there is absolutely no way I'm leaving these characters there.
If you love pirates, treasure hunts, found family, slow-burn romance, enemies-to-lovers tension, magic, adventure, and fantasy stories that leave you desperate for the next book, definitely add this one to your TBR.
🏴☠️✨ Officially in my pirate era and honestly? I never want to leave.
Espanol: Piratas + magia + enemies to lovers + familia encontrada? Firemane de Brianna J. Stephens me hizo entrar oficialmente en mi era pirata. 🏴☠️✨ Esta historia fue una aventura increíble de principio a fin. Entre las tripulaciones piratas, la búsqueda de tesoros, los elementos mágicos y la tensión del slow burn, terminé completamente atrapada por la historia y sus personajes. La dinámica de familia encontrada fue una de mis partes favoritas porque le dio muchísimo corazón a la historia y me hizo preocuparme por cada victoria, pérdida y riesgo que enfrentaban. Las vibras piratas me tuvieron viviendo mi mejor era de Jack Sparrow. 🏴☠️ Había la combinación perfecta de caos, aventura y peligro para mantenerme pasando páginas, mientras que la tensión enemies to lovers se desarrollaba poco a poco con cada interacción. Me encantó que el romance se enfocara más en la conexión emocional, la confianza y el crecimiento de los personajes que en el spice.La aventura fue igual de adictiva que el romance. Secretos ocultos, giros inesperados, misiones peligrosas y la constante búsqueda de tesoros hicieron que nunca supiera qué iba a pasar después. Y podemos hablar de ese final? ¡ESE CLIFFHANGER! 😭 No estaba preparada. Terminé la última página y automáticamente necesité el siguiente libro porque no hay forma de dejar a estos personajes en ese punto.
Si te gustan los piratas, las búsquedas de tesoros, la familia encontrada, los romances slow burn, la tensión enemies to lovers, la magia, las aventuras y las fantasías que te dejan desesperada por el siguiente libro, este definitivamente merece un lugar en tu TBR.
🏴☠️✨ Oficialmente estoy en mi era pirata y no quiero salir de ella. 📚❤️🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
As soon as I got to the last page, I was already flipping through my Kindle thinking, “Wait… that can’t be the end.” 😭
This book leaves off on a cliffhanger, but honestly? The best kind. The kind that immediately has you desperate for the next book because there is no way you can just leave the story there.
There were a few moments where the pacing felt a little slow for me, but overall I absolutely loved this story. The world, the adventure, the characters—I was completely invested.
And let me just say, Brianna definitely plays with your heart. I can’t tell you why without spoiling anything, but trust me when I say you’ll be feeling all kinds of conflicting emotions by the end. 😅
If you’re currently in your pirate era, I highly recommend picking this one up. Between the adventure, the characters, and that ending, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Now I’m just counting down the days until I can find out what happens next. 🏴☠️
Content notes: This is a completely clean read with no explicit content and no profanity. There is one attempted assault scene, but it is handled mildly and without graphic detail. There is also some mild pirate violence, as well as a few instances of pirates making inappropriate comments toward women. Overall, I would still consider this a fairly clean pirate adventure.
This book leaves off on a cliffhanger, but honestly? The best kind. The kind that immediately has you desperate for the next book because there is no way you can just leave the story there.
There were a few moments where the pacing felt a little slow for me, but overall I absolutely loved this story. The world, the adventure, the characters—I was completely invested.
And let me just say, Brianna definitely plays with your heart. I can’t tell you why without spoiling anything, but trust me when I say you’ll be feeling all kinds of conflicting emotions by the end. 😅
If you’re currently in your pirate era, I highly recommend picking this one up. Between the adventure, the characters, and that ending, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Now I’m just counting down the days until I can find out what happens next. 🏴☠️
Content notes: This is a completely clean read with no explicit content and no profanity. There is one attempted assault scene, but it is handled mildly and without graphic detail. There is also some mild pirate violence, as well as a few instances of pirates making inappropriate comments toward women. Overall, I would still consider this a fairly clean pirate adventure.
June 17, 2026
I’m in my pirate book era and can’t get enough of them. “Firemane” is an outstanding addition to the pirate romantic fantasy sub genre, and probably one of my new favorite pirate books. Yes there are pirates,
how many times can I say that word, but “Firemane” has so much more! There’s magic, gods/goddesses, sirens, and yes pirates.
Sam is a thief, she gave me Aladdin vibes, think “street rat”. At the beginning of the book, Sam makes some questionable choices that not only put her in danger but puts a target on her friends and allies. When said danger comes after her and takes the only person she loves and cares for, Sam is thrown into a revenge plot/adventure that takes her on the high seas to destroy everyone and everything that wronged her.
This book sucked me in at the prologue and wouldn’t let go until the very last word. And that ending, holy moly my jaw was on the floor! Please oh please don’t let it end like that, I need more of Sam, Serfina, and definitely more Kensley! “Firemane” is definitely a
5 star read for me. If you like slow burn, closed-door romance, pirates, found family, and magic this book needs to be on your TBR!
how many times can I say that word, but “Firemane” has so much more! There’s magic, gods/goddesses, sirens, and yes pirates.
Sam is a thief, she gave me Aladdin vibes, think “street rat”. At the beginning of the book, Sam makes some questionable choices that not only put her in danger but puts a target on her friends and allies. When said danger comes after her and takes the only person she loves and cares for, Sam is thrown into a revenge plot/adventure that takes her on the high seas to destroy everyone and everything that wronged her.
This book sucked me in at the prologue and wouldn’t let go until the very last word. And that ending, holy moly my jaw was on the floor! Please oh please don’t let it end like that, I need more of Sam, Serfina, and definitely more Kensley! “Firemane” is definitely a
5 star read for me. If you like slow burn, closed-door romance, pirates, found family, and magic this book needs to be on your TBR!
June 1, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a great read! I really don’t have any books with pirates so this was a fun change of pace for me!
I loved the descriptions of the towns and markets, and the life at sea. There was wonderful detail without being overly descriptive. I felt like if I closed my eyes I could really picture the sights and smells!
The map was lovely and I referenced it a lot to really get an understanding of where our story was taking us.
Our FMC Sam made her living as a thief (and a good one at that), until one pickpocket alters the course of her life. Her journey is riddled with heartbreak and pain, but it also opens her world to new possibilities and found family. This journey was an amazing, wild ride, and I loved the characters we meet along the way, and the ENDING….. *chef’s kiss*
I will be getting this for my bookshelf as soon as it’s released, and I am anxiously awaiting the next book! I’m so thankful to have been able to participate in the ARC read for this book!
This was such a great read! I really don’t have any books with pirates so this was a fun change of pace for me!
I loved the descriptions of the towns and markets, and the life at sea. There was wonderful detail without being overly descriptive. I felt like if I closed my eyes I could really picture the sights and smells!
The map was lovely and I referenced it a lot to really get an understanding of where our story was taking us.
Our FMC Sam made her living as a thief (and a good one at that), until one pickpocket alters the course of her life. Her journey is riddled with heartbreak and pain, but it also opens her world to new possibilities and found family. This journey was an amazing, wild ride, and I loved the characters we meet along the way, and the ENDING….. *chef’s kiss*
I will be getting this for my bookshelf as soon as it’s released, and I am anxiously awaiting the next book! I’m so thankful to have been able to participate in the ARC read for this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
6/5 Stars!
First of all, I’m so thankful to have the opportunity to be an arc reader for this book! I genuinely cannot believe this is Brianna’s debut novel, WOW! The story is absolutely captivating and impossible to put down!
✨ Pirates
✨ Found Family
✨ Slow Burn (like really slow)
✨ Magic
✨ No Spice
✨ Enemies to Lovers
Sam was a strong, fierce warrior who went to great lengths for vengeance. This book shows her from age 16-19 and its written in such a way that you don’t miss anything throughout those years. The gaps between time are absolutely seamless! Who I thought would be the MMC in the book ended up not, which shocked me at first…but turned out so much better than expected! Kensley was honestly just awesome! (You’ll see why)
This book is quite literally the definition of a roller coaster of a story. The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t wait to see what happened! The ending was 🤯 like what!? Counting down the days until book 2 is released 😍
First of all, I’m so thankful to have the opportunity to be an arc reader for this book! I genuinely cannot believe this is Brianna’s debut novel, WOW! The story is absolutely captivating and impossible to put down!
✨ Pirates
✨ Found Family
✨ Slow Burn (like really slow)
✨ Magic
✨ No Spice
✨ Enemies to Lovers
Sam was a strong, fierce warrior who went to great lengths for vengeance. This book shows her from age 16-19 and its written in such a way that you don’t miss anything throughout those years. The gaps between time are absolutely seamless! Who I thought would be the MMC in the book ended up not, which shocked me at first…but turned out so much better than expected! Kensley was honestly just awesome! (You’ll see why)
This book is quite literally the definition of a roller coaster of a story. The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t wait to see what happened! The ending was 🤯 like what!? Counting down the days until book 2 is released 😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firemane thrusts us into a vivid world of gritty pirates, thieves, slavers, and questionable morals. Stephens does a beautiful job creating a world that feels full and lived in, from the map on the first page to the names and the countries involved, all without feeling forced. It's the kind of world a fantasy and pirate lover would love to dip their toes into. The story follows Sam, a street thief on a quest for revenge that takes a darker turn as she embraces her inner pirate and becomes a living legend. It's character driven, following Sam through her growth and personal change and transformation, with ample world-building as a fun backdrop to her journey. We take our time with Sam's emotional struggles and the highs and lows of her arch, with plenty of exciting action on the side. I would definitely recommend this book to lovers of fantasy pirates who want to spend some time on the high seas!
June 19, 2026
The prologue of Firemane hooked me immediately. At first, I found the pacing slower than I expected, but I soon realized that's one of the book's greatest strengths. Brianna J. Stephens takes the time to build her world and develop her characters instead of rushing them from ordinary people to heroes. (As many newer fantasy do)
The world felt vivid and distinct. The attention to detail in the piracy and seafaring aspects was especially impressive. I've read many books about pirates, but this one felt the most authentic, clearly reflecting extensive research.
Sam has already become one of my favorite heroines. Her story is a powerful reminder that your circumstances don't have to define you. Instead, you can use them to become the person you want to be. While still reflecting struggles and continuous growth.
Firemane is a beautifully crafted story with rich worldbuilding, authentic characters, and a heroine I'll be thinking about long after I finish the series.
The world felt vivid and distinct. The attention to detail in the piracy and seafaring aspects was especially impressive. I've read many books about pirates, but this one felt the most authentic, clearly reflecting extensive research.
Sam has already become one of my favorite heroines. Her story is a powerful reminder that your circumstances don't have to define you. Instead, you can use them to become the person you want to be. While still reflecting struggles and continuous growth.
Firemane is a beautifully crafted story with rich worldbuilding, authentic characters, and a heroine I'll be thinking about long after I finish the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firemane by Brianna J. Stephens makes your heart live on the edge, blurring the lines of what is right and what is wrong.
Oh my gosh did this book take me on a roller coaster of life, suffering, and grieving. How does one move past the kidnapping of your best friend, your whole home being destroyed, and you feeling powerless. Sam started as that, powerless and regretful. Seeing her live and grow felt bittersweet as we followed along her life.
The life of a pirate isn't an easy one and we saw in this one, the antics that the main character went through, the struggles. This book made me think and rethink what it means for one to survive and how it goes against what one values. What would you do to survive? And what values would you give up to survive?
I recommend this book to anyone who wants a clean no-spice book!
Thank you Brianna J. Stephens for the free book.
Oh my gosh did this book take me on a roller coaster of life, suffering, and grieving. How does one move past the kidnapping of your best friend, your whole home being destroyed, and you feeling powerless. Sam started as that, powerless and regretful. Seeing her live and grow felt bittersweet as we followed along her life.
The life of a pirate isn't an easy one and we saw in this one, the antics that the main character went through, the struggles. This book made me think and rethink what it means for one to survive and how it goes against what one values. What would you do to survive? And what values would you give up to survive?
I recommend this book to anyone who wants a clean no-spice book!
Thank you Brianna J. Stephens for the free book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firemane by Brianna J Stephens
Sailing the seas could mean losing your soul...
This one gave me some cool Princess Bride vibes, but with the FMC (Sam) becoming the pirate! And that love triangle! Whoo! Really enjoyed this one, especially the second half, where we got lots of Kensley. This one definitely goes into morally grey territory as Sam starts out as a pickpocket and ends up as a pirate. This is only book 1 in a series, so get ready for that cliffhanger! I would be delighted to be picking up book 2 already! I am a bit nervous about that love triangle, though; it's been a while since I've been so invested in one. Would definitely recommend!
Genre: Fantasy romance (no spice)
Book 1 in the Darkbringer Chronicles
Content: no language or spice, moderate fantasy violence
5 stars
ARC (will be published June 15th, all opinions are my own)
Sailing the seas could mean losing your soul...
This one gave me some cool Princess Bride vibes, but with the FMC (Sam) becoming the pirate! And that love triangle! Whoo! Really enjoyed this one, especially the second half, where we got lots of Kensley. This one definitely goes into morally grey territory as Sam starts out as a pickpocket and ends up as a pirate. This is only book 1 in a series, so get ready for that cliffhanger! I would be delighted to be picking up book 2 already! I am a bit nervous about that love triangle, though; it's been a while since I've been so invested in one. Would definitely recommend!
Genre: Fantasy romance (no spice)
Book 1 in the Darkbringer Chronicles
Content: no language or spice, moderate fantasy violence
5 stars
ARC (will be published June 15th, all opinions are my own)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Spice: ❄️
Rating: 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Excuse me but how dare you leave me on edge like that. This book had me on pins and needles from the very first chapter. The story flow is impeccable, the character description is suburb, and every layer of PTSD, heartbreak, anxiety, grief, and thrill was written so vividly that I felt it right along with the FMC.
The only opportunity I noticed was the ending. I could see the twist coming for a while. Maybe it is because I read a lot or maybe the clues were a little too clear, but that was the only predictable moment for me.
Overall this is my second five star read of the year and I will be buying the hardcover the moment it releases to add to my five star shelf. I also need the author to not wait twenty years for the second one.
Rating: 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Excuse me but how dare you leave me on edge like that. This book had me on pins and needles from the very first chapter. The story flow is impeccable, the character description is suburb, and every layer of PTSD, heartbreak, anxiety, grief, and thrill was written so vividly that I felt it right along with the FMC.
The only opportunity I noticed was the ending. I could see the twist coming for a while. Maybe it is because I read a lot or maybe the clues were a little too clear, but that was the only predictable moment for me.
Overall this is my second five star read of the year and I will be buying the hardcover the moment it releases to add to my five star shelf. I also need the author to not wait twenty years for the second one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW.
OBSESSED!! Honestly. YA is not always my cup of tea.. but this was written so BEAUTIFULLY that maybe now it is? I am anxiously waiting for book 2, so I’m at least a YA reader for this series!
Our main character, Sam, was so well written that I just wanted to hug, support, and cheer her on!
She had to make impossible choices throughout the whole book! Something this book did to me was make me question whether or not I would have the guts to make the same choices (both for my own survival and that of those around me).
The MMC? Yes please. I’ll take a pirate who can ruthlessly kill AND be soft any day.
Honestly. I stayed up late to finish and then immediately cursed the universe for not having book 2 readily available for me.
You will not regret picking this book up!
OBSESSED!! Honestly. YA is not always my cup of tea.. but this was written so BEAUTIFULLY that maybe now it is? I am anxiously waiting for book 2, so I’m at least a YA reader for this series!
Our main character, Sam, was so well written that I just wanted to hug, support, and cheer her on!
She had to make impossible choices throughout the whole book! Something this book did to me was make me question whether or not I would have the guts to make the same choices (both for my own survival and that of those around me).
The MMC? Yes please. I’ll take a pirate who can ruthlessly kill AND be soft any day.
Honestly. I stayed up late to finish and then immediately cursed the universe for not having book 2 readily available for me.
You will not regret picking this book up!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
From pickpocket to pirate, Sam is very adaptive and keeps doing her best to survive. The lines between good and bad are very close together and she needs to make decisions without losing herself along the way. Some of her decisions are questionable but who can blame her after everything she's gone through with thinking her best friend is gone and losing her home and leaving behind everything else she knows? I really enjoyed this book, there's sweet love development and no spice, so perfect for YA or people who aren't into that sort of thing, the action scenes are well described and I'm dying to read book two to find out what happens next!
From pickpocket to pirate, Sam is very adaptive and keeps doing her best to survive. The lines between good and bad are very close together and she needs to make decisions without losing herself along the way. Some of her decisions are questionable but who can blame her after everything she's gone through with thinking her best friend is gone and losing her home and leaving behind everything else she knows? I really enjoyed this book, there's sweet love development and no spice, so perfect for YA or people who aren't into that sort of thing, the action scenes are well described and I'm dying to read book two to find out what happens next!
June 15, 2026
I was incredibly lucky to receive this as an ARC, and I’ve absolutely loved it😭😭
Sam is a wild character, with an even wilder spirit, and her story had me intrigued from the beginning. The character growth is incredible, and every character is unique and written beautifully 🥹🥹
And the pirate setting?! It was dreamy, and it brought me back to when I was small and dreaming of learning how ships moved, what pirate life was like (because who hasn’t felt like that before?!), and this was one of those stories that made you feel like living exactly that: a pirate life⚔️
And the MMC is just ✨extraordinary✨.
The ending was incredible and left me speechless and in tears, I can’t wait for book 2😭
Sam is a wild character, with an even wilder spirit, and her story had me intrigued from the beginning. The character growth is incredible, and every character is unique and written beautifully 🥹🥹
And the pirate setting?! It was dreamy, and it brought me back to when I was small and dreaming of learning how ships moved, what pirate life was like (because who hasn’t felt like that before?!), and this was one of those stories that made you feel like living exactly that: a pirate life⚔️
And the MMC is just ✨extraordinary✨.
The ending was incredible and left me speechless and in tears, I can’t wait for book 2😭
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ ARC review ✨ This was a really great book! Sam is a 16 year old orphan, picking pockets to survive. One mistake turned her world upside down and changed the course of her future. I really enjoyed watching Sam’s journey throughout the story. One of my favorite aspects of the book was Sam’s ability to adapt to what life throws at her, she is continually seeking improvement for herself. I also really enjoyed the world building. If you’re a fan of the Lunar Chronicles, Eragon, or a Series of Unfortunate Events you will probably enjoy this story! I am eagerly awaiting book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
An exciting adventure at sea (mostly) that will keep your attention the whole way through!
I love that this book takes place over years, not weeks or even months. It really gives you the ability to see the MC, Sam grow and change over time. From street thief to pirate, Sam’s journey is full of mystery, murder, self-discovery, and just a bit of magic.
I am excited to see how this duology plays out!
I read this as an ARC but the thoughts and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.
I love that this book takes place over years, not weeks or even months. It really gives you the ability to see the MC, Sam grow and change over time. From street thief to pirate, Sam’s journey is full of mystery, murder, self-discovery, and just a bit of magic.
I am excited to see how this duology plays out!
I read this as an ARC but the thoughts and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was such a refreshing read. The author does an incredible job pulling you into the story and making you feel connected to the characters and emotions throughout. I found myself thinking about parts of it long after putting it down. The writing flows really naturally, and it’s the kind of book that’s easy to get invested in quickly. Definitely worth adding to your reading list if you enjoy stories that leave an impact.
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMGOODNESS!!! This book was an absolute, breathtaking, wonderful surprise.
The cover- GORGEOUS!
The story- PHENOMENAL!
The characters- AMAZING!
I love high stakes, sword fights and adventure with a hint of love. Brianna has succeeded in skillfully and effectively writing a masterpiece!
Note to the sensitive reader: the FMC is almost taken advantage of twice. But it is not detailed greatly.
The cover- GORGEOUS!
The story- PHENOMENAL!
The characters- AMAZING!
I love high stakes, sword fights and adventure with a hint of love. Brianna has succeeded in skillfully and effectively writing a masterpiece!
Note to the sensitive reader: the FMC is almost taken advantage of twice. But it is not detailed greatly.
June 16, 2026
This was SUCH a good book! If I didn’t know this was the author’s debut novel, I never would have known. The author wove the story together perfectly, right to the very end, in a way that made you fall in love with the characters, even with the FMC being a little morally gray! I am EAGERLY awaiting the second book; I can’t wait to find out what happens with Sam’s love story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shadow and Bone meets Pirates of the Caribbean?? YES PLZ. This book had me hooked from the first chapter. Perfect YA adventure with a witty female main character, epic plot weaving, heartfelt yearning and a cliffhanger I can’t stop thinking about. Yes, yes, yes!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Omg i am mesmerized the plot twist and all those events one after another this book is torture but good torture i need to know where this is going please book two come faster ok thanks that was great recommend if you love being tortured like i am and love slow burns !
Review of advance copy received from Author
-Clean
-Moral Compromise
-Secret (deadly) Society
-Piratey things
-This is what happens when the gods get involved with humans, and Sam has no ideaaaaa
Read. It’s good, it’s fun, it’s a piratey romance(that’ll keep you guessing)
-Moral Compromise
-Secret (deadly) Society
-Piratey things
-This is what happens when the gods get involved with humans, and Sam has no ideaaaaa
Read. It’s good, it’s fun, it’s a piratey romance(that’ll keep you guessing)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am so happy be a part of those who got to read this book before it’s release. Definitely a page turner. I also loved how relatable the characters are. I won’t give any clues or spoilers but this is a MUST READ for sure.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thankyou for the early sneak peek!
This was a fun no spice pirate fantasy debut and it pulled me in right from the start!
Loved every minute of reading...and that ending? Ummm we are going to need book 2 ASAP!
This was a fun no spice pirate fantasy debut and it pulled me in right from the start!
Loved every minute of reading...and that ending? Ummm we are going to need book 2 ASAP!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Oh pirates yes please every much enjoyed this book I love Sam adventures in becoming a feared pirates it has everything I recommended you read this
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had me hooked from start to finish and was an absolute joy to ARC read
June 20, 2026
I ate this book UP.
I am a sucker for pirate books, but pirate books where the FMC turns into a woman to be feared? I love. Also the ending? I can NOT wait for book 2.
I am a sucker for pirate books, but pirate books where the FMC turns into a woman to be feared? I love. Also the ending? I can NOT wait for book 2.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Have I entered a pirate era? Why yes, yes I have and it’s all thanks to Brianna J Stephens and her 5⭐️ phenomenal book, Firemane! I picked up this ARC on a whim after seeing a few of its tropes and Im SO 👏 GLAD 👏I 👏DID 👏. Still shocked this is her debut novel (Bravo, @briannajstephens !)
This no spice, closed door high sea adventure follows Sam, a thief turned pirate, as she travels the ocean in search of the boy who stole her heart. While protecting Sam, he was captured by slavers. Now she will burn the world down to find him but in the process, will she leave behind who she was or embrace the morally gray pirate she is becoming?
And if you read the book, you know what I’m saying when I say… that cliffhanger ending was pure cruelty by the author! Now I need book 2 like yesterday 🤭
You will enjoy this is you like:
🏴☠️pirate adventures
🩶morally gray characters
🤗found family
🥰slow burn romance
🔥strong fmc
⚠️Content warnings from the author:
“For your awareness, Firemane contains themes of human trafficking/slavery, moderate fantasy violence (including naval battles, pirate raids, and physical altercations), attempted sexual assault, and depictions of trauma and grief. Please consider your own well being when choosing to read this book.”
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This no spice, closed door high sea adventure follows Sam, a thief turned pirate, as she travels the ocean in search of the boy who stole her heart. While protecting Sam, he was captured by slavers. Now she will burn the world down to find him but in the process, will she leave behind who she was or embrace the morally gray pirate she is becoming?
And if you read the book, you know what I’m saying when I say… that cliffhanger ending was pure cruelty by the author! Now I need book 2 like yesterday 🤭
You will enjoy this is you like:
🏴☠️pirate adventures
🩶morally gray characters
🤗found family
🥰slow burn romance
🔥strong fmc
⚠️Content warnings from the author:
“For your awareness, Firemane contains themes of human trafficking/slavery, moderate fantasy violence (including naval battles, pirate raids, and physical altercations), attempted sexual assault, and depictions of trauma and grief. Please consider your own well being when choosing to read this book.”
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was an amazing pirate fantasy, enemies to lovers YA book. The author did a great job of showing how pirates may have actually lived while at sea and the storyline was amazing. I loved that there were pirates in this book. It was a terrific read.
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