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The Sacrifice: Legend of the King's Ring

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A condemned pirate.
A powerful heiress.
A relic that could change everything.

Amos Kent Carlton has faced death before—but never with a noose around his neck. Spared at the last moment and sold into servitude, he vows to reclaim his freedom at any cost. Trust is a luxury he cannot afford… and faith, a relic he left behind long ago.

Lady Alexandra Ashcombe commands ships, land, and men with unyielding precision. But when the pirate placed under her authority begins to unravel both her control—and her guarded heart—she finds herself caught in a battle far more perilous than any she has fought in society or trade.

For the Ring of Solomon has resurfaced.
Sought by those who crave its power, the ancient artifact carries with it whispers of divine authority… and devastating consequence. As enemies converge and the line between justice and vengeance blurs, Amos and Alexandra must confront the

Some chains cannot be broken without cost.
Some love cannot survive without surrender.
And some destinies demand the ultimate sacrifice.

478 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 8, 2026

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About the author

MaryLu Tyndall

60 books1,014 followers
A Christy Award finalist and winner of two Inspirational Readers’ Choice awards, MaryLu Tyndall dreamt of tall ships and swashbuckling heroes during her childhood years on Florida’s Atlantic Coast. She holds a degree in Math and worked as a software engineer for fifteen years before she penned her first novel. MaryLu is best known for her Christian Pirate Romance Novels. Now, with more than thirty books published, she makes her home in California with her husband, six children, four grandchildren and various stray cats. Her hope is that readers will not only be entertained but will be brought closer to the Creator who loves them beyond measure. For more information, visit her website at marylutyndall.com

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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Profile Image for Dana Michael.
1,486 reviews200 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 2, 2026
The Sacrifice by Marylu Tyndall is another swashbuckling adventure on the high seas with roguish pirates filled with action and adventure. This story has two slow-burn clean romances. The main characters are Amos Carlton and Lady Alexandra Ashcombe. He is driven by the need to capture an ancient ring that has the ability to give him supreme authority. And, Alexandra seeks to save his soul.

I enjoyed this adventure romance as I picture the characters sailing and fighting in the Caribbean in an ancient vessel with ragtag pirates for the crew. I also loved that former characters from the author's previous books makes an appearance as well. I will warn you that this book is a bit longer than most of her books. But, she has a Biblical application as always, and a happily ever after! That makes me happy!

I look forward to Eliza and Rafe's story next.

*I was given a copy of this book by the author, and this is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Caren | Hopefulwords.
105 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 7, 2026
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.

The Queen of Christian Pirate Romance has done it again! The Sacrifice is an epic high-seas adventure romance with faith messages that will stay with you long after the last page.

The characters are flawed, blinded in different ways by their desires. It’s thought-provoking, and the reader is unlikely to agree with their choices, but that is exactly the point. We’re along for the journey as these characters learn what we know but don’t always apply.

One of the most relatable moments for me was when the FMC didn’t immediately think to pray about a situation. Someone reminds her and she wonders why she didn’t remember to do it herself. There’s also a much needed reminder that we have to know God for who He is, not based on the hurt caused by others.

Chapter thirty-nine was a standout for me! It made me want to be still for a while, just sit with God. This is a story about trusting God, really trusting Him.

The ending is perfect, and I can’t wait for the next book in this series!

Content:
Christian Historical Romance
Strong Faith Themes | Spiritual warfare
Intimacy level: Mostly Kisses Only | 1x Quick fade to black between a married couple | Some vague but mature references
Language: Infrequent cursing in French | Innuendo
Violence (befitting the time period)
Other references: there are infrequent on-page occ*lt rituals
Sensitive subjects: references to sl*very, s*xual har*ssment, a*sault, unhealthy family relationships
36 reviews
September 8, 2026

I love this author; I have all her books and have followed her for years, The Legacy of the Kings Pirates series still being my favorite. The Sacrifice, third in the Legend of the King’s Ring series, continues the generational line of some favorite characters. I don’t want to risk spoilers, so will confine my comments to overall impressions. There are two couples of interest, one of which is secondary, but very engaging. Each of the four characters is faced with life changing decisions. The two men, pirates, are, expectedly, not believers in Jesus. The women are, hence the conflict. There is a major theme of thinking we are responsible to redeem another to Christ, and must do whatever it takes, even if what it takes is wrong—resulting in betrayal and lies--for the greater good. No one can save another soul, of course, so the misunderstanding of Scripture that arises from our confusing God’s role with ours, leads to all kinds of difficulties. Something we all can relate to, I think. And, of course, there are the themes of pursuing power, control, wealth, success at all cost. No human could ever be trusted to use the power of the Ring for absolute good—and the dark powers know it. The pursuit continues.

A fun addition is the author has added AI generated video clips of various scenes available on youtube, facebook, instagram, and pinterest. It's almost like watching a movie and they definitely add interest to the book.

I am giving this book a 4 star review instead of 5 because it just seems to fall short of her previous work. There are some things that don’t ring true regarding the Ring and those in possession of it, even temporarily, and the pursuit of it. Where it ends up at the end leaves the possibility of another book in the series, and though it is not surprising who steals it, there was little build up to that. I hate to say this, but I’m weary of the chase—though I love the characters involved in it, including the ones poised for a sequel. I look forward to their story, just ready for the Ring to be done.

In all fairness, I can’t imagine the pressure on Christian fiction writers these days from publishers and competition among the hundreds of other authors saturating the market today. And anyone who has written as many books as this author has can hardly be expected to strike five every single time.


I received this book as an ARC but the review is totally my own.
Profile Image for Tamara Tilley.
Author 10 books23 followers
September 8, 2026
There are not enough verbs to describe the amount of adventure and excitement in one of MaryLu Tyndall’s swashbuckling pirate tales.

The SACRIFICE, the latest installment in the Legacy of the King’s Ring series, follows the heart of Lady Alexandra Ashcombe. A woman of means but was not always the case. However, with the ability to save the life of the one her heart has never forgotten, she intends to see to the release of Captain Amos Carlton, a boy from her youth. Now a man-and a notorious pirate-her goal in purchasing his indenture is to not only free him from the hangman’s noose, but to bring Amos to the very throne of God and show him true freedom.

Though Amos feels a connection to Alexandra from their youth, he will not be persuaded to give up his ultimate goal . . . finding Solomon’s ring. The mystery and legend surrounding the ring-that is told to be so powerful even the winds and the seas obey him who holds it-is what Amos seeks. And he will stop at nothing in order to find it and harness its power. However, as his fascination grows regarding Alexandra, he finds himself torn between his quest and his heart.

Once again, Ms. Tyndall pens a grand adventure not only for her characters but for her readers as well. The development of characters and her ability to set a scene so vividly is what sets her apart as a storyteller. To weave together the exploits of pirating yet keep the foundation of the story about redemption and that no soul is beyond saving is masterful. Even though the reader knows the crux of the story is that hearts would turn to Christ, the adventure to find out exactly how that will happen is absolutely worth the ride.

Do not miss out on this latest adventure from MaryLu Tyndall. However, once you board the SACRIFICE, be prepared for a voyage filled with heart-stopping action that will have you holding your breath and holding on to the rail as Captain Carlton’s ship plunges through the seas of adventure.

I received an advance copy of THE SACRIFICE for review purposes. All opinions are my own.
3 reviews
September 8, 2026
The Sacrifice challenged me!

Where to begin; MaryLu hits it out of the sea faring park yet again! I have fallen in love with the world of pirates, preachers and sinners that she has created! "The Sacrifice" is no exception; the characters feel real and face genuine struggles or morals, heart, heads and spirit!

I usually avoid spoilers but I HAVE to share my favorite scene… or at least the scene that has wormed it's way into my brain provoking so much thought and attention. Our FL, Alexandra finds herself up on deck at the first hours of light in the day. She comes across one of the crew named Jonah as he is reading his Bible; she knows he is a Christ follower but he perplexes her. Alexandra approaches and the conversation that follows has truly captivated my thoughts since reading it! She comments "How astounding to find a true believer in the most unlikely of places" meaning upon a pirate ship filled with all manners of rough behavior. It's Jonah's response that has clung to me, he simply looks at her and says "Is that not where we should be found?" A little bit later in response to another remark about how we are to aid in God's holy work, he says "Some are called t' preach it, Others, t' live it. Be a light where none ought t' shine."

I LOVE the challenge in my own spirit that this brought! It can be so easy to spend all my time with my Christian family and friends and forget to shine my light in other places in order to show the gospel truth. That is one of my favorite parts of reading MaryLu Tyndall's books… they never cease to challenge me in my own walk with God!

I was blessed to receive a free advance copy of "The Sacrifice" however the opinions and my review are my genuine and honest thoughts. I HIGHLY recommend this or ANY of her books, I promise you will not be disappointed!!
12 reviews1 follower
September 17, 2026
With MaryLu Tyndall’s books you are instantly so engrossed you can’t put the book down once you start reading. There’s always lots of adventure, excitement and a struggling romance along with Christian themes and they are all here in The Sacrifice. Christianity is woven through this story in a beautiful way which produces a good lesson for us all.

Alexandra has an agenda, Amos has an agenda and Rochefort has an agenda. This all collides into a fascinating adventure. The “ring” is the all-important relic because of the power it can manifest. Which is desired not just by Amos but also the awful villain who is trying to have it as well as Alexandra for his wife.

MaryLu’s books take you away to another time and place as she creates a unique way for her readers to escape into a spellbinding tale of romance, intrigue and excitement . You can almost feel the ship as it rocks on the swells while sailing over the sea, smell the salty air, and be in awe of the beautiful colors of the sky. But then also, when the pirates start fighting, it’s as if you are right there in the middle of it, hearing the clash of the swords and watching the rough and noisy brawl. And the big question, who ends up with the “ring”?

Don’t miss this book, the third in the Legacy of the King’s Ring. It does help to read the first and second in the series but it’s great as a stand-alone story as well. Happy sailing!
Profile Image for Melody.
5 reviews
September 11, 2026
I was excited to continue the Legend of the Kings Ring series with this newest addition, and it did not disappoint!!!

Before I go any further, I do want to point out that this was probably the darkest/most gruesome of the 3 books. I am a bit sensitive to gory scenes in general, and while the book is completely worth it, this is just a heads up to future readers.

As always, the characters in MaryLu’s stories are lovable and eccentric. The romance is swoon-worthy, and the overall message is deep and profound.

MINI-SPOILER ALERT: I loved that this story in a way dealt with “missionary dating” - something that can be common in today’s society among young Christian women. And instead of Alexandra’s efforts being the reason for Amos to change, it was her willingness to surrender to the Lord that ultimately brought him to salvation. Such a true and powerful message!

All in all, I give this book 5 stars and recommend the whole series to anyone who is looking for an entertaining, edge-of-your-seat romantic adventure. As opposed to all of the fluffy, superficial stories out there in the world, MaryLu’s stories will get you to think deeply and pursue truth and virtue (all while being entertained by pirates!!)

**I received a a complimentary copy of the book for review, but was not required to give a good review and all opinions are my own. 
22 reviews
September 9, 2026
I never tire of MaryLu Tyndall books. Gripping, edge of your seat action. Deep, spirit stirring, faith message. Clean, swoon worthy romance. MaryLu does not disappoint. The Sacrifice draws you in from the first page. We see our hero and heroine wrestle with leaving God in control of their lives, and the lives of those they love, from the outset of the book, while traveling the high seas and being pursued by the villain. Readers who enjoy Christian pirate romance, clean historical romance, Caribbean adventure, redeemed pirate heroes, and faith-filled romance may enjoy this book. 
I would recommend this book, as well as the others in the series. This book is a clean read with no explicit scenes or language. If you are looking for a book that doesn’t shy away from a good faith message, takes you along on an adventure, gives you some historical context, has imagery that is so descriptive you can imagine the scenes clearly and easily, this is a great book to read. And if you’re not looking for these things in a book, read it anyways! I daresay you won’t regret it!

I received an advanced reader copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
317 reviews15 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 28, 2026
I have been waiting on this next chapter in an amazing series of books centered around pirates, a powerful ring and the open seas. Amos is a condemned man ready to hang for his piracy, when he is spared at the last minute. But has he only switched one fate for another? A life as an indentured slave. Along comes Alexandra, whom he knew as a child. She lets him think she is no more than a servant herself as she brings him food and offers her friendship. I enjoy reading these stories that make me want to sail the seas and go on my own swashbuckling adventure. Will Amos get what he wants, the Ring, and will it satisfy him? Will Alexandra convince him that Salvation is the only way to be truly free ? I thoroughly enjoyed how intense this book was, yet how love still shines throughout the story. I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are what I thought of this story. I also enjoyed seeing characters from the previous books and am counting down the days until the next story.
9 reviews
September 8, 2026
The third installment in the Legend of the King’s Ring weaves adventure, the high seas, and faith together in another captivating novel by MaryLu Tyndall.

You will fall in love with the characters and setting among the blue ocean waves and enchanting islands in the Caribbean. Amos Carlton desires freedom above all else. He wants to control his own destiny and future and seeks to do so by any means - a great reflection of how we also try to control our own lives so tightly. Meanwhile, Alexandra Ashcombe finds herself struggling to trust God as she forms a friendship with the pirate Captain Carlton and deeply desires that he trusts in the Lord for salvation.

The romance in this novel is sweet, the stakes are high, and the story is interwoven with the message that God is the only One who can truly save us and provide freedom that we can scarcely imagine for ourselves. I highly recommend this novel!

I received an ARC & was not required to write a positive review. I received no monies or discounts.
Profile Image for DianFlow.
463 reviews49 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
August 28, 2026
Ahoy, mateys. Shiver me timbers! Prepare to set sail on another exhilarating, seafaring adventure by the infamous pirate author, MaryLu Tyndall!

Lady Alexandra is the tough-as-nails—but fair—mistress of Providence Hall, who by her own volition ends up on a ship with a crew of vile, ruthless, malevolent pirates. With the exception of the hunky captain, Amos Carlton, that is . . . who wouldn't hurt a hair on her pretty little head. I enjoyed the witty, flirtatious banter between the two and rooted fiercely for their happiness. Although courageous and authoritative, I was moved by Alexandra's humility and vulnerability when it came to a certain handsome pirate.

A fascinating story of betrayal, an ancient relic with the power to conjure up spiritual warfare, heart-racing sword fights on the open seas, and the merciful gift of healing and redemption—The Sacrifice is definitely one not to be missed!
Profile Image for Deborha Mitchell.
156 reviews30 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 8, 2026
I cannot get enough of these wonderful stories!

Everytime I pick up one of Ms. Tyndall's books, I am swept away into adventures that I never want to end.

The Legend of the King's Ring series is a branch of The Legacy of the King's Pirates series. Each book carries it's own adventure and life lesson.

The Sacrifice is filled with adventure, danger, heartache, love, forgiveness, and of course pirates and daring rescues. But the main theme is about sacrifices.

As you read Amos and Alexandra's story, you will find yourself truly knowing what sacrifice means. With strong and colorful characters, amazing details of places and moments, you will find it very hard to stop reading. But, take my advice and read slowly, because once you finish, the adventure ends. That is, until the next adventure! I look forward to Book 4.
Profile Image for Amanda Hoskin.
5 reviews
September 10, 2026
So I just had the extreme pleasure of reading an ARC of MaryLu's newest novel "The Sacrifice" and oh my goodness what an adventure it was. What makes me love MaryLu's stories so much (especially this one in particular) is her attention to detail not only to the time period but also the scenery. It makes me feel like I'm actually there with the main characters through the good & the bad. I also really loved how she included scenes with her beloved older characters to enjoy alongside the new characters. Adds a bit of nostalgia to an already fantastic reading experience. I highly recommend not only this amazing MaryLu novel but all of her novels as they're very well written with incredible character development, intense ship battles and devious vile villains that keep you hooked from start to finish.
Profile Image for Eileen.
104 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 7, 2026
In THE SACRIFICE: LEGEND OF THE KING'S RING by MaryLu Tyndall readers are invited back in time to the era of tall ships, pirates, high society ladies, wealthy landowners, derring do, and high seas adventure, love, and sacrifice. The main characters Amos Carlton, Lady Alexandra, and Captain Lucien Rochefort are well-developed. The story is well paced and enjoyable. I especially appreciated the banter between Amos and Lady Alexandra and between Amos and Rafe.

I received this ARC from the author. I was not asked to give a positive review by the author. All thoughts and opinions are mine, except for descriptive adjectives and nouns I.e. derring do, that is used with the author's permission.

I rate this book with 5 stars! I highly recommend it for mature young readers and adults.
Profile Image for Kristine Morgan.
705 reviews64 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
August 28, 2026
I love reading MaryLu Tyndall's books. If you haven't tried anything by her you are in for a treat. Her pirate books rival the most swashbuckling of tales, full of treasures and curses that end up pointing the way to God's soverign power. Ms. Tyndall does a fabulous job demonstrating how spiritual warfare is a real thing. Her characters are wonderful and the plot carries you along causing one to read long past an acceptable bedtime. I highly recommend the whole Legend Of The King's Ring series.

So my suggestion is that this would make a great beach read, with the surf pounding in your ears while you sip your favorite beverage as you lie on the beach.

All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Charlotte.
85 reviews2 followers
September 24, 2026
Another great read from MaryLu Tyndall, that incorporates redemption and turning back to Christ. The story had adventure, suspense, romance, and fun all rolled into one story that will keep you turning the page. It is interesting to see how the Ring of Solomon affected Amos compared to previous characters. The book continues the story for the Ring of Solomon, but can be read as a stand alone. Love that Tyndall started Rafe and Eliza's story in this book, I can't wait to see what happens with them. I love how devoted Nathaniel is to Alexandra.
Profile Image for Alissa  Peppo (bookstagrambyalissamorgan).
201 reviews45 followers
August 31, 2026
This is one of MaryLu Tyndall’s best swashbuckling romances yet! This is a beautifully written Christian Fiction answer to Pirates of the Caribbean, with elements such as pirates, romance, high-seas adventure, pirate codes, and supernatural enemies— all from a perspective that points to Jesus as the Lord of heaven and earth! Amos is lost as can be, and his character development and redemption arc make this story shine. Lady Alexandra’s story is relatable— she must learn to love and let go, and leave the future in God’s hands rather than control everything herself. Together, these complex and intricately written characters face exciting adventure, rescues, battles, and supernatural conflicts that drive them to realize their true love for one another. Best of all, there is a second romance blossoming between secondary characters Eliza and Rafe, who are also thrown together on these adventures! Although I highly recommend reading the entire Legend of the King’s Ring series, if you can’t stand waiting and wanted to pick this one up first, it’s my opinion that you could do that and easily follow the story and premise! I enthusiastically give this book five stars, and I am very much looking to the next book in the series!

I received a copy of this book for review purposes, but my thoughts are my own. I really loved it!
107 reviews
October 30, 2026
So Well Written

What an amazing adventure! Amos Carlton thinks that finding Solomon's ring will give him everything he has ever longed for. The ring is powerful and everyone wants it, but with that power comes evil.
Alexandra wants to save him, both from the hang man's noose and from the life he's chosen. She wants to lead him to the Savior.
I believe the message of this book is more powerful than any worldly relic. Enjoy it!
Profile Image for Carol Lee.
709 reviews10 followers
September 8, 2026
I really enjoyed this story. I loved the strong character of Lady Alexandra and how her human side came to light with the addition of Amos to her crew. The story was very intriguing with lots of twists. I liked how faith and and trust were woven and gained and how the characters evolved I highly recommend it.
3 reviews1 follower
October 8, 2026
Very good as always

Love this book. Truly I am never disappointed. This series of characters have become like family members to me. Emotionally and pure. Anyone who desires adventure on the sea this is a must read. Thank you Marylu.
271 reviews
September 28, 2026
Please judge this book by its cover, because the story is just as breath-taking. Another ship full of adventure, suspense and romance. Welcome aboard!
230 reviews4 followers
September 8, 2026
I received a complimentary copy of this book for a review. I was not required to give a good review. This is my own opinion.

I have been a longtime reader of MaryLu Tyndall. She writes the best pirate stories with a Christian twist. This story did not disappoint. Amos Kent Carlton is about to be executed at the beginning of this story. Lady Alexandra Ashcombe steps in and rescues him at the last moment. She makes him an indentured servant on her sugar plantation.  Alexandra wants to save his soul. Amos wants to find the Ring of Solomon. The story chronicles the quest to find the ring. It also shows  how we have no control, only God. We need to trust Him with our loved ones' salvation. Strong Christian message. 

It was neat to see how Amos is related to characters of past books of MaryLu too. I'll need to go back and read them again.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews