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An Act of Piracy #1
Blood In The Water
Kyros Vindex, treasure-hunter, has a problem. He's carrying a torch for a fellow pirate with the sexual awareness of a teaspoon. Rumors say the man has killed hundreds. He's determined to knock some sense into the work-a-holic that captains the Midnight Sun, but damned if he knows how.
Eric Deumont has more pressing concerns than the treasure-obsessed Kyros. There's a creature inked into his chest that no witch in the seas will lay hands on for all the gold in the world. He knows it gives the Midnight Sun a cursed reputation and that doesn't make living any easier. He has heard stories of spirits trapped for lifetimes inside spelled puzzle jars. Eric tracked down three of the pieces for such a jar with a lead number four. The fifth is still out there.
Even then, the spirit of vengeance that lives in Eric's skin has no intention of giving up such easy access to the mortal realm. It craves blood and the light of the moon allows it to wreak unchecked havoc. Cursed is an insult. This is madness.
This story was written as a part of the M/M Romance Group's "Love’s Landscapes" event. Group members were asked to write a story prompt inspired by a photo of their choice. Authors of the group selected a photo and prompt that spoke to them and wrote a short story.
This story may contain sexually explicit content and is intended for adult readers. It may contain content that is disagreeable or distressing to some readers. The M/M Romance Group strongly recommends that each reader review the General Information section before each story for story tags as well as for content warnings.
Eric Deumont has more pressing concerns than the treasure-obsessed Kyros. There's a creature inked into his chest that no witch in the seas will lay hands on for all the gold in the world. He knows it gives the Midnight Sun a cursed reputation and that doesn't make living any easier. He has heard stories of spirits trapped for lifetimes inside spelled puzzle jars. Eric tracked down three of the pieces for such a jar with a lead number four. The fifth is still out there.
Even then, the spirit of vengeance that lives in Eric's skin has no intention of giving up such easy access to the mortal realm. It craves blood and the light of the moon allows it to wreak unchecked havoc. Cursed is an insult. This is madness.
This story was written as a part of the M/M Romance Group's "Love’s Landscapes" event. Group members were asked to write a story prompt inspired by a photo of their choice. Authors of the group selected a photo and prompt that spoke to them and wrote a short story.
This story may contain sexually explicit content and is intended for adult readers. It may contain content that is disagreeable or distressing to some readers. The M/M Romance Group strongly recommends that each reader review the General Information section before each story for story tags as well as for content warnings.
111 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 14, 2014
38 people are currently reading
525 people want to read
About the author
Tami Veldura
133 books145 followersTami Veldura is an enby/aro/ace author of queer fiction. Their pronouns are they/them/Mx. They love romance, fantasy, science fiction, and paranormal stories that push genre limits. Their work has been nominated for the M/M Goodreads Reader Choice Awards and they have been nominated and placed in the Rainbow Awards.
Website: Failure To Communicate
Twitter handle: tamiveldura
Email: tamiveldura@gmail.com
Website: Failure To Communicate
Twitter handle: tamiveldura
Email: tamiveldura@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
December 8, 2014
This. Was. Fucking. Awesome.
I loved every awesome moment of this book!
Kyros Vindex
Captain of The Nomad Hawk
With a passion that borders on obsession, Kyros peruses Eric relentlessly. Kyros goes the extra mile to make Eric notice him, which is absolutely necessary, because Eric is monumentally distracted.
Eric Deumont
Captain of The Midnight Sun
Eric travels the seas plundering exotic spices which keep the spirit Ghalil in check, and tirelessly searching for pieces of a puzzle jar which will trap the spirit and rid him of its torment.
Eric's singular focus has blinded him to the attentions of Kyros Vindex until one fateful night.
Kyros corners Eric one evening and they spend hours exploring each other. The chemistry and passion is there for the taking... But so is the unfinished puzzle jar in Eric's cabin. Kyros snatches the jar from its hiding place (not knowing its significance) in the hopes of having a bargaining ship to make Eric chase him for a change...
Kyros unknowingly begins a cat and mouse game with deadly consequences...
The suspense of their high-stakes treasure hunt was beautifully offset with wry humor sprinkled throughout the text:
Blood in the Water was a solid story - it was humorous but not campy - There were no references to "plundering booty" or anything silly like that.
I don't know what's next for this series, but I'm going to be the first person in line to buy the second book.
That's a promise.
***I was provided a copy of this book by the Author in exchange for an honest review***
Methodical destruction. One by one. Patient. Ghalil made its way from man to man, running their heart's blood across the deck in more creative ways than men with swords.Equal parts Ghost story, Action/Adventure, and Pirate love affair...
I loved every awesome moment of this book!
Kyros Vindex
Captain of The Nomad Hawk
He had it bad for a man who could turn enemy and royally fuck up his day. What the hell was he doing here?Kyros sails his pirate ship looking for a very specific treasure - sure, he hunts merchant ships and plunders their cargo, but he's far more interested in laying claim to his rival Eric Deumont.
With a passion that borders on obsession, Kyros peruses Eric relentlessly. Kyros goes the extra mile to make Eric notice him, which is absolutely necessary, because Eric is monumentally distracted.
Eric Deumont
Captain of The Midnight Sun
It was true, then. They could be caught. Captured. [...] He could be free. He just needed all the pieces. Eric eased himself back half a step and said, "You need to tell me everything you know about that jar."The cursed captain of The Midnight Sun is a ticking time-bomb. He's spent the last several years searching for a way to rid himself of the violent spirit which has chosen him as its unwilling host.
Eric travels the seas plundering exotic spices which keep the spirit Ghalil in check, and tirelessly searching for pieces of a puzzle jar which will trap the spirit and rid him of its torment.
Eric's singular focus has blinded him to the attentions of Kyros Vindex until one fateful night.
Kyros corners Eric one evening and they spend hours exploring each other. The chemistry and passion is there for the taking... But so is the unfinished puzzle jar in Eric's cabin. Kyros snatches the jar from its hiding place (not knowing its significance) in the hopes of having a bargaining ship to make Eric chase him for a change...
Kyros unknowingly begins a cat and mouse game with deadly consequences...
The suspense of their high-stakes treasure hunt was beautifully offset with wry humor sprinkled throughout the text:
"Pull up the green for parlay."This book was absolutely original and entertaining from beginning to end.
Araceli grabbed his should her and hissed, "Are you mad? They're after this ship's goods."
"And I'm chasing a treasure on that one."
A single cannon fired in the distance. Kyros and Araceli ducked. The iron ball flew over the deck and tore right through the fores'l. Kyros scowled and spied through his glass again. From the fore of his ship, Eric Deumont extended one middle finger.
Kyros muttered, "What's the flag signal for 'That was childish and unnecessary'?"
Blood in the Water was a solid story - it was humorous but not campy - There were no references to "plundering booty" or anything silly like that.
I don't know what's next for this series, but I'm going to be the first person in line to buy the second book.
That's a promise.
***I was provided a copy of this book by the Author in exchange for an honest review***
August 24, 2014
Confession: I have a little...er...pirate obsession affliction.
It's a thing.
I waited a checked everyday to when this was going to be released. And when it finally was...I quelted hard. Look at it, mateys! I love this cover. Yawr har har!
Always.
Blood in the Water did not disappoint. This stayed true to pirating, no lily-livered land lubbers found in this crew. Pirate bad asses! Lying, double crossing, fighting, stealing, killing anyone that gets in their way!
Blood, grit, demons and spirits...this author weaved quite the tale. The amount of research and story-telling is recognized in every inch of this story. Enemies? Lovers? Hmm...Kyros and Eric, pirate captains of their own ships have been dancing around each other from sometime. When we meet the two in this story, they are finally doing something about the sexual tension.
Nothing better than two hot pirates together, in my book.
But Eric has a secret of the paranormal kind and it's breaking him down slowly. Kyros is always a step behind trying to solve the puzzle. Eric finally lets Kyros in but it has major consequences.
Without giving away any of this juicy plot, the two pirates join forces on a wild adventure that stays true to pirate form. They island hop in the Caribbean searching for clues and answers and have some steamy moments in between.
The story is suspenseful, action packed and gritty. Baby likes a lot. :D It does not hold back nor pulls the punches. Each scene was descriptive, so much so that I could see all the characters and settings vividly in my mind. Historical mixed with fantasy! It ends with a cliffhanger but there's promise of more. and for less than 100 pages, it read like it was longer. I like when that happens.
A treasure this story. I found some pirate treasure. Arrrgh!
My rating? 4.5 stars.
I am holding the last .5 stars hostage in true pirate form. It will not be released until I read the next bit of this series and I hope it will be expanded to fully explain some bits because this pirate has questions, luv.
Many thanks to the author and the team behind this story and event. *waves pirate sword in glee*
It's a thing.
I waited a checked everyday to when this was going to be released. And when it finally was...I quelted hard. Look at it, mateys! I love this cover. Yawr har har!
Always.
Blood in the Water did not disappoint. This stayed true to pirating, no lily-livered land lubbers found in this crew. Pirate bad asses! Lying, double crossing, fighting, stealing, killing anyone that gets in their way!
Blood, grit, demons and spirits...this author weaved quite the tale. The amount of research and story-telling is recognized in every inch of this story. Enemies? Lovers? Hmm...Kyros and Eric, pirate captains of their own ships have been dancing around each other from sometime. When we meet the two in this story, they are finally doing something about the sexual tension.
Nothing better than two hot pirates together, in my book.
But Eric has a secret of the paranormal kind and it's breaking him down slowly. Kyros is always a step behind trying to solve the puzzle. Eric finally lets Kyros in but it has major consequences.
Without giving away any of this juicy plot, the two pirates join forces on a wild adventure that stays true to pirate form. They island hop in the Caribbean searching for clues and answers and have some steamy moments in between.
The story is suspenseful, action packed and gritty. Baby likes a lot. :D It does not hold back nor pulls the punches. Each scene was descriptive, so much so that I could see all the characters and settings vividly in my mind. Historical mixed with fantasy! It ends with a cliffhanger but there's promise of more. and for less than 100 pages, it read like it was longer. I like when that happens.
A treasure this story. I found some pirate treasure. Arrrgh!
My rating? 4.5 stars.
I am holding the last .5 stars hostage in true pirate form. It will not be released until I read the next bit of this series and I hope it will be expanded to fully explain some bits because this pirate has questions, luv.
Many thanks to the author and the team behind this story and event. *waves pirate sword in glee*
August 22, 2014
Makes me want to take to the high seas again.
Loved this story. Swashbuckling, blood, violence, double cross, treasure, intrigue and evil all in one delightful story. Whether you're a Captain Blood, Sinbad, Hook or Jack Sparrow devotee this does NOT disappoint. Great twist in this one that adds a really nice conflict. Managed to fall for Captain Deumont even with his poncy French name and crew. In fact, Araceli has to be one of the best secondary characters I've seen in a while. Which points out the inherently interesting aspect to piracy during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries as the non-conformative, non-heredity and non-racial based value system, and a democratic society in comparison to the nation states of Europe. I think this story points out both the good points and less savory though the antihero is alive and well here.
Not going to be a spoiler so, I'm not going to say too much about the plot other than it is fun, there's a great deal of violence and bloodshed, and the end--Woof! *claps hands* So when's the next story?
Favorite quote:
Loved this story. Swashbuckling, blood, violence, double cross, treasure, intrigue and evil all in one delightful story. Whether you're a Captain Blood, Sinbad, Hook or Jack Sparrow devotee this does NOT disappoint. Great twist in this one that adds a really nice conflict. Managed to fall for Captain Deumont even with his poncy French name and crew. In fact, Araceli has to be one of the best secondary characters I've seen in a while. Which points out the inherently interesting aspect to piracy during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries as the non-conformative, non-heredity and non-racial based value system, and a democratic society in comparison to the nation states of Europe. I think this story points out both the good points and less savory though the antihero is alive and well here.
Not going to be a spoiler so, I'm not going to say too much about the plot other than it is fun, there's a great deal of violence and bloodshed, and the end--Woof! *claps hands* So when's the next story?
Favorite quote:
Kyros muttered, “What’s the flag signal for ‘That was childish and unnecessary’?"
August 20, 2014
Nope. It's 4.5 Piratry done right Stars is what it is!
High seas high jinks, battles, some freakiness, some sexy times… I mean…
Every time I turned around something else was happening! Action packed fails somehow. I tell you what, I want more. More. MORE! When's part two coming out? Ms. Veldura put me through the wringer and left me dangling on a cliff by my fingernails and yet…
It was awesome. If I smoked, I'd be doing so now.
Eric and Kyros are both pirates with their own ships. Pirate ships. ARGH! There is some sort of history between them which we're not privy to and I'm hopeful at some point will be addressed. Kyros seemingly has been carrying a torch for Eric for some time. What better way to demonstrate ones affection than by shooting at him and putting a huge hole in his sail? Nothing says 'I've missed you' like a hole in the sail and a middle finger.
*smh* Pirates.
Everything that happens from about 13% to 99% I can say nothing about. You should experience it for yourself. I will say a look similar to this was on my face for virtually that entire stretch.
UNLESS it was the sexy times.
They didn't make another step toward the bed. Eric pushed him to the wood floor, slicked himself, and staked his claim. Kyros clawed and scratched him closer, faster, harder. He bit what he could reach and cursed what he couldn't. He didn't know how to express the blinding relief flooding his veins with adrenaline.
Then is was more like…
It is violent, folks. They're pirates. Hello. I think I'm ready to take my pirate training wheels off now and brandish my own pirate sword. I do like the democratic nature of pirate society. I'm not as badass as Araceli, but a few months as a pirate and who knows? I could be all…
What?
It could happen. >___>
August 27, 2014
4.5 stars
I just love a rollicking pirate story. And when you have two feuding pirates competing for the same treasure and hot for each other… it’s such good, steamy fun under the sun. And sail.
There are some great action scenes in this with lots of bloody, gory buckling of the swash.
As well as some tasty buckling of the knees. shiver me timbers.
Kyros and Eric are tender for each other as they fence with more than their, um, swords. Their competing treasure hunt for an important artifact that is also the key to their happiness is genius, as is the paranormal aspect. I really liked how this all worked together: a dark curse, pirates in lerve, looting, action/adventure, fighting, some very cool secondary characters… and a clever hunt for booty… erm, bootie… um, treasure troves.
You won’t want to miss this one. A warning that the ending does leave things set up for a sequel. Hopefully coming soon.
September 10, 2021
2.5 stars
This made zero sense as a romance but was fairly decent with the paranormal/action elements. The one MC is infatuated with the second MC for reasons unknown; the second MC doesn't even know the first MC's name even though they'd had previous contact of some sort. There're demons and battles at sea and an awesome quartermaster, Araceli, and some nonsense about a demon jar. The section breaks and chapter breaks are prefaced with awkward announcements of time jumps that are just unnecessary as this information can be easily written into the text, or even just implied when you're talking about "minutes later" or "seconds before". The action was fairly well done, if hurried, and the author gets points for imagination.
The ending was abrupt and a cliffhanger for what was supposed to be a self-contained story since this was a DRitC prompt. At least one review for the next book indicates that that one ends the same way with no potential third book in sight, so I won't bother with the sequel even though most of the reviews said it was better than this one.
This made zero sense as a romance but was fairly decent with the paranormal/action elements. The one MC is infatuated with the second MC for reasons unknown; the second MC doesn't even know the first MC's name even though they'd had previous contact of some sort. There're demons and battles at sea and an awesome quartermaster, Araceli, and some nonsense about a demon jar. The section breaks and chapter breaks are prefaced with awkward announcements of time jumps that are just unnecessary as this information can be easily written into the text, or even just implied when you're talking about "minutes later" or "seconds before". The action was fairly well done, if hurried, and the author gets points for imagination.
The ending was abrupt and a cliffhanger for what was supposed to be a self-contained story since this was a DRitC prompt. At least one review for the next book indicates that that one ends the same way with no potential third book in sight, so I won't bother with the sequel even though most of the reviews said it was better than this one.
November 5, 2016
3.5 Stars
I picked this book completely at random and I'm very glad I did.
I started it, left it off [because I wasn't in the mood for pirates at that time] and decided to come back to it when the mood hit again.
It isn't a lengthy book but I really enjoyed it. I liked the paranormal-ish aspects and the way both characters were flawed[Pirates, duh.]. I liked the pacing and the writing though the way the POVs went back and forth would bother some people. I didn't mind. I actually liked the way it was structured. The book ended on what isn't technically a cliffhanger, but there is a very huge unfinished business that I'm sure will be tackled in book 2. It needs to be.
Will I read book 2? Yes. I need to know what happened so I'm definitely picking it up!
I picked this book completely at random and I'm very glad I did.
I started it, left it off [because I wasn't in the mood for pirates at that time] and decided to come back to it when the mood hit again.
It isn't a lengthy book but I really enjoyed it. I liked the paranormal-ish aspects and the way both characters were flawed[Pirates, duh.]. I liked the pacing and the writing though the way the POVs went back and forth would bother some people. I didn't mind. I actually liked the way it was structured. The book ended on what isn't technically a cliffhanger, but there is a very huge unfinished business that I'm sure will be tackled in book 2. It needs to be.
Will I read book 2? Yes. I need to know what happened so I'm definitely picking it up!
March 2, 2016
This was great fun - loved it. I'm not sure why it took me so long to pick this up - it's been on my kindle for ages.
I don't get to read enough stories with pirates and I liked the antagonistic/enemies-to-lovers relationship the MCs had going on :) I would definitely like to know what happens next as this is left as a HFN.
I don't get to read enough stories with pirates and I liked the antagonistic/enemies-to-lovers relationship the MCs had going on :) I would definitely like to know what happens next as this is left as a HFN.
August 24, 2014
A great story of to rival pirates who are also lovers. Well written, tight first story in what I hope will be at least a duology. Interesting conundrum that haunts both Eric and Kyros. Action, blood, booty and a quest makes this story a winner.
December 5, 2015
3.5 stars. This was a dark romp with pirates and dark spirits. In the beginning I was a little off put with how I didn't get much background on the history between the two main characters. I really enjoyed their interactions throughout most of the story but I always felt like just a little something was missing. Nevertheless for the length of the story that was there I enjoyed reading it. I would definitely recommend it for a quick read. :)
honestly-ill-never-get-around-to-it
August 16, 2014Pirates! eep Arrrghhh and avast! and other bloodcurdling manly cries, but definitely no eeeping.
November 15, 2014
So, this is a story about rival pirates. Kyros is the instigator. He chases the 'cursed' pirate Eric and 'steals' for him/from him. Pretty much it is a cat/mouse game between these two pirate captains. Kyros feels this little game they have is the only way to keep Eric interested and following him. PLUS, he really wants to know the truth behind the 'curse'. It someone involves a special cup(which Eric is trying to track down all the pieces).
Eric, is the 'cursed' pirate. During one of his raids, he unintentionally, released a powerful demon, who now resides in his chest. This demon, is called upon for blood. Really not something you want to come across. Cinnamon is the only way to get him to 'come back' to Eric. He feels the attraction towards Kyros, but isn't sure what the game Kyros is playing.
So, as the story progresses, we find out more about the demon, how to 'capture' the said demon giving Eric his life back. Also, we watch how the two pirates relationship develops and how their men/woman work together.
Plus, let's talk about Kyros management of his crew. His right hand person, his quartermaster is a woman. Some find a woman on a pirate ship a 'omen', let alone in charge, Araceli will kick anyone's ass if needed. I really liked her quite a bit. She is a person in charge, she earns her respect by herself, and loyal to a fault. She really helps keep Kyros in order...
I really liked the adventure during the story. It is like a treasure hunt with a twist. Then throw in some witches, and we are left at the end wanting more...
Because, though we get our HFN ending... we are left with questions...
Eric, is the 'cursed' pirate. During one of his raids, he unintentionally, released a powerful demon, who now resides in his chest. This demon, is called upon for blood. Really not something you want to come across. Cinnamon is the only way to get him to 'come back' to Eric. He feels the attraction towards Kyros, but isn't sure what the game Kyros is playing.
So, as the story progresses, we find out more about the demon, how to 'capture' the said demon giving Eric his life back. Also, we watch how the two pirates relationship develops and how their men/woman work together.
Plus, let's talk about Kyros management of his crew. His right hand person, his quartermaster is a woman. Some find a woman on a pirate ship a 'omen', let alone in charge, Araceli will kick anyone's ass if needed. I really liked her quite a bit. She is a person in charge, she earns her respect by herself, and loyal to a fault. She really helps keep Kyros in order...
I really liked the adventure during the story. It is like a treasure hunt with a twist. Then throw in some witches, and we are left at the end wanting more...
Because, though we get our HFN ending... we are left with questions...
September 14, 2014
I couldn't connect with the characters. Something about the writing style is just incredibly confusing. I had a hard time figuring out which character was whom at first, and then after that, the clearly delineated fast-forwards was weird and disconcerting. It was like AC 1 when you do a thing and then suddenly: *flat female voice* "fast forwarding to a more recent memory."
I also feel like the plotty stuff got away from the author a bit, grew and mutated and fuck knows what else. But eh, mostly I couldn't get into it. *shrug* YMMV
I also feel like the plotty stuff got away from the author a bit, grew and mutated and fuck knows what else. But eh, mostly I couldn't get into it. *shrug* YMMV
July 4, 2018
3.5 stars
June 21, 2020
Audio Review 20Jun20: No Change
Really good audio and now that I've listened to the first one I can go on to Book 2 because that ending was a bit of a cliffy!
Original Review 16Dec2017: 4 Stars
Oh this was hella fun, sexy and a little bit terrifying!
Really good audio and now that I've listened to the first one I can go on to Book 2 because that ending was a bit of a cliffy!
Original Review 16Dec2017: 4 Stars
Oh this was hella fun, sexy and a little bit terrifying!
July 29, 2017
I actually really liked this but the ending sucked so bad it kinda ruins it for me. Have to think about what rating to give.
October 28, 2014
Offered for FREE from the M/M Romance Group's Love's Landscapes event. Thank you too all the amazing authors who participated!
2.5 stars I waffled between rounding up and rounding down on this one. It was interesting initially, both the plot with Eric's spirit as well as Kyros chasing Eric. But I didn't feel any connection between the two men... okay, so some sexual tension, but we didn't get to see the original meeting that made Kyros so enamored with Eric to begin with. All we see is Kyros endangering his crew chasing after Eric, stealing Eric's shit and messing something up that is really effen important to Eric.
The 'chase' wasn't really fun or playful, like it was supposed to be, because Eric didn't know he was being chased. And to be honest, I had a hard time figuring out what was so bad about housing the spirit. Eric's a pirate. He has no problem with killing, and that spirit saved him and his ship more than once. Since the thing 'tears' out of his chest anyway, only repairing it when it returns, it wasn't clear he could survive getting rid of it.
And then Kyros the impulsive idiot . So I'm not sure why I rounded up. Good story telling, I guess. But I needed more actual encounters between Eric and Kyros. I needed more history. I needed more tension, more love, more hate. It was just missing... something.
August 17, 2014
Great story with two pirates hot for each other, one of which has a vengeful spirit that lives in his chest that comes out in the moonlight to reek havoc on anyone around it. This was a story that I couldn't stop reading. It ends somewhat HFN, but there is a big problem left to solve, and I for one look forward to the sequel.
October 20, 2014
Kyros and Eric - who is possessed by the spirit Ghalil - are pirates who chase eachother in search of treasure, along the way is adventure, plunder and more. Really enjoyed their voyage and the witches and demons and mention of ghosts. Hope there is a lot more of them to see in this series.
July 22, 2016
I want more!!
Great story, always enjoyed pirate stories and this was very well studied.
The characters were strong and I'm sorely wanting the next book in the series very much!
Get writing Tami
Great story, always enjoyed pirate stories and this was very well studied.
The characters were strong and I'm sorely wanting the next book in the series very much!
Get writing Tami
Read
September 18, 2014Can't wait for a sequel!
June 28, 2017
I volunteered for the ARC of this book and was given a copy by the author through instafreebies for free.
I'm really glad that the book comes with a small list of questions to help with "what should I write for a review?"
Before the questions I want to tell everyone that this story has a slow start but when it kicks, oh boy it kicks. It's fast paced pirate adventure with a dash of UST and a TON of treasure chasing.
Onto the answers to the suggested questions:
My favourite scene: the running and rushing into his arms and kissing without abandon because they've been apart for too long.
My favourite character: the female secondary character for sure, Araceli. God, that woman was amazing. It's so rare to see badass women in a story who aren't the "sassy loud mouthed bitchy" types but "I will put pin a knife through your hand to this table" kind. And she wasn't a waif or a traditional "so thin so hot" type. She wasn't a fat lady who was "motherly." She basically defied all odds. I love the scene when she said something like, "bless yourself that I'm not sitting on you crushing your rib cage." It resonated with me so hard because I have no other life saving skills personally. Only way I can choke someone to save myself is to sit on them. *wink*
Satisfying end: hell no, not even a little. I want to slap these two and then cuddle them. It ends at a cliffhanger. If not a cliffhanger - in an "incomplete - give me more" place for sure.
Backstory: yes, I wanna read the first time they met.
Excited for book 2: Hell YES! I'm about to start that today itself.
Point when it became a page turner: right after they finally met face to face or closer to that. Since that scene of the take down till the last page really.
Content warnings: Can't think of any, tbh.
I do have a question that remains unanswered throughout the book and I'm hoping to find the answer in the second book - why didn't Eric ache for Kryos? Like Kryos was obsessed with Eric. But Eric didn't even remember him or how he felt with him till they finally met with each other. Also, Eric mentioned never feeling the way he did. But Kryos remembered their good times together. What did I miss? Were they together before the book happened or not? Is Kryos's description a memory or imagination?
Okay that's more than one question. Oops.
Apart from that - what an amazing adventure. The pace of this book was lightning fast. And it was an amazing read. I love how it took realistic time leads. And I just basically love the story. I can't wait for the next one!
The story gets an amazing 4.5 from me! Great work, Tami!
All my love,
Sri
I'm really glad that the book comes with a small list of questions to help with "what should I write for a review?"
Before the questions I want to tell everyone that this story has a slow start but when it kicks, oh boy it kicks. It's fast paced pirate adventure with a dash of UST and a TON of treasure chasing.
Onto the answers to the suggested questions:
My favourite scene: the running and rushing into his arms and kissing without abandon because they've been apart for too long.
My favourite character: the female secondary character for sure, Araceli. God, that woman was amazing. It's so rare to see badass women in a story who aren't the "sassy loud mouthed bitchy" types but "I will put pin a knife through your hand to this table" kind. And she wasn't a waif or a traditional "so thin so hot" type. She wasn't a fat lady who was "motherly." She basically defied all odds. I love the scene when she said something like, "bless yourself that I'm not sitting on you crushing your rib cage." It resonated with me so hard because I have no other life saving skills personally. Only way I can choke someone to save myself is to sit on them. *wink*
Satisfying end: hell no, not even a little. I want to slap these two and then cuddle them. It ends at a cliffhanger. If not a cliffhanger - in an "incomplete - give me more" place for sure.
Backstory: yes, I wanna read the first time they met.
Excited for book 2: Hell YES! I'm about to start that today itself.
Point when it became a page turner: right after they finally met face to face or closer to that. Since that scene of the take down till the last page really.
Content warnings: Can't think of any, tbh.
I do have a question that remains unanswered throughout the book and I'm hoping to find the answer in the second book - why didn't Eric ache for Kryos? Like Kryos was obsessed with Eric. But Eric didn't even remember him or how he felt with him till they finally met with each other. Also, Eric mentioned never feeling the way he did. But Kryos remembered their good times together. What did I miss? Were they together before the book happened or not? Is Kryos's description a memory or imagination?
Okay that's more than one question. Oops.
Apart from that - what an amazing adventure. The pace of this book was lightning fast. And it was an amazing read. I love how it took realistic time leads. And I just basically love the story. I can't wait for the next one!
The story gets an amazing 4.5 from me! Great work, Tami!
All my love,
Sri
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2021
This was fun firstly because I'm weak in the knees for anything related to pirates, and secondly because this was relatively lighter and quicker a read than I expected. I usually am the type to give a book a few chapters to suck me in, so I was pretty surprised to have fallen absolutely in love with Araceli right from chapter one. Another thing that made this book stand out to me was that despite being a quick read, it made me visibly react — I grinned, I slapped my thigh, I face-palmed, I yelled, I whooped, all of it.
I'll admit, I was very confused by Kyros' character: why was he so infatuated with Eric? Why was he constantly meddling? (Doing it for Eric's attention didn't feel good enough a reason) I also didn't feel much of a chemistry between the two, which was disappointing since it is their bond that is the driving force pushing the plot forth. However, this was more than made up for in the fact that the book is not strictly or heavily dependent on the romance. All in all, it was a fair read and I'm excited to move on to the sequel!
I'll admit, I was very confused by Kyros' character: why was he so infatuated with Eric? Why was he constantly meddling? (Doing it for Eric's attention didn't feel good enough a reason) I also didn't feel much of a chemistry between the two, which was disappointing since it is their bond that is the driving force pushing the plot forth. However, this was more than made up for in the fact that the book is not strictly or heavily dependent on the romance. All in all, it was a fair read and I'm excited to move on to the sequel!
September 29, 2023
1.5
Let's start with the author's use of Portuguese and Spanish as if they are the same.
Let's continue with the fact that it says this is a Slow-Burn, yet they were making out at 10% of the reading.
Let's add that the act of piracy is merely a mention, not really represented.
Now let's talk about the most significant issues:
1. This lacks organization, it's poorly put together, rushed, and undeveloped... the plot had potential, and the author ruined it. Sadly they thought writing a 2nd book was a good idea... well, when your book is merely a hundred pages long you should just develop your plot, not pretend you have material for a sequel.
2. The protagonists have no chemistry whatsoever aside from wanting to f+ck so badly they could be with a rubber doll and be the same.
3. The descriptions and representations are so badly done that you spend half of the book trying to figure out what's happening, who is Eric and who is Kyros.
4. The resolution makes no sense.
5. The whole book seems to exist just to justify the author's want of two pirates screwing each other.
Let's start with the author's use of Portuguese and Spanish as if they are the same.
Let's continue with the fact that it says this is a Slow-Burn, yet they were making out at 10% of the reading.
Let's add that the act of piracy is merely a mention, not really represented.
Now let's talk about the most significant issues:
1. This lacks organization, it's poorly put together, rushed, and undeveloped... the plot had potential, and the author ruined it. Sadly they thought writing a 2nd book was a good idea... well, when your book is merely a hundred pages long you should just develop your plot, not pretend you have material for a sequel.
2. The protagonists have no chemistry whatsoever aside from wanting to f+ck so badly they could be with a rubber doll and be the same.
3. The descriptions and representations are so badly done that you spend half of the book trying to figure out what's happening, who is Eric and who is Kyros.
4. The resolution makes no sense.
5. The whole book seems to exist just to justify the author's want of two pirates screwing each other.
June 22, 2017
I really enjoyed Blood in the Water by Tami Veldura. Blood in the Water is the first book in An Act of Piracy series. The storyline was interesting and had me laughing on more than occasion as Eric and Kyros stole things from each other and then gave chase. Major twist at the end of the book that I didn't see coming and the book does end in an HFN ending, but luckily for me, the sequel is already out so I can immediately find out what happens next. I need to know if Kyros can find a way to uncurse himself and Eric and find a way to save Araceli, Kyros' first mate. The chemistry between Eric and Kyros was explosive. The story was well written and nicely edited. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
June 22, 2025
Reading about a character named Eric was a bit disquieting because I know an Eric.
However, the story was paced well and does come with a HFN, though it is certainly bitter sweet. I think Eric and Kyros have a magnetic and almost violent attraction that doesn’t feel like love to me. I can see they are linked, but I don’t feel particularly attached to the idea of them being together. That said, Kyros did give up everything he treasured to free Eric from the spirit. I am still disturbed that they both are able to live with themselves knowing their friend was trapped in the jar with the spirit and is clearly suffering. Even though Kyros swears he will find a way to permanently seal the spirit and free his friend I just find it terribly hard to relate.
However, the story was paced well and does come with a HFN, though it is certainly bitter sweet. I think Eric and Kyros have a magnetic and almost violent attraction that doesn’t feel like love to me. I can see they are linked, but I don’t feel particularly attached to the idea of them being together. That said, Kyros did give up everything he treasured to free Eric from the spirit. I am still disturbed that they both are able to live with themselves knowing their friend was trapped in the jar with the spirit and is clearly suffering. Even though Kyros swears he will find a way to permanently seal the spirit and free his friend I just find it terribly hard to relate.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2023
wasn't expecting that
okey!!!! i wasnt expecting that
It intrigued me from the beginning, it kept me entertained all the time, the story is happening super fast, the truth is that when I thought it might get dense at some point, it didn't happen, the story revolved and time passed making the whole plot continue .
I liked it, maybe it lacked a little more...a little more adventure or those moments that take you to the climaxes of the story, it's like several climaxes went by but they needed to take me there, anyway I liked it a lot.
I want to read the next book obviously.
okey!!!! i wasnt expecting that
It intrigued me from the beginning, it kept me entertained all the time, the story is happening super fast, the truth is that when I thought it might get dense at some point, it didn't happen, the story revolved and time passed making the whole plot continue .
I liked it, maybe it lacked a little more...a little more adventure or those moments that take you to the climaxes of the story, it's like several climaxes went by but they needed to take me there, anyway I liked it a lot.
I want to read the next book obviously.
June 10, 2017
This is an incredibly good story. I love all things pirate, and Tami Veldura delivered a great swashbuckling tale with a wonderfully exhibited romance. The characters were believable and real, and her descriptions so vivid I felt like she was actually there and relaying what was going on around her--which just demonstrates the author's talent. The chemistry was strong and every step in both the story and the progression of the relationship between men felt true and real. I couldn't recommend this book enough!
March 3, 2024
The supernatural parts were actually pretty interesting but there was zero reason to believe that the two MCs would even like each other, let alone love each other so much that they'd be willing to risk everything. They barely even spoke when they were together so it felt like a weird obsessive lust instead of love. And the characters personalities felt so similar that it was hard to keep straight who was who sometimes. Everything needed to be further fleshed out so that there was something for the reader to connect to.
July 13, 2023
Book three of reading all of the book from Stuff Your Kindle Day.
This felt extremely rushed and poorly put together. We are thrown into this world with little explanation and a somewhat large cast of characters. Nothing actually happens in the 100 something pages. Personally i would have combined the two books in the series in one so it could hopefully have some interesting content and character building.
This felt extremely rushed and poorly put together. We are thrown into this world with little explanation and a somewhat large cast of characters. Nothing actually happens in the 100 something pages. Personally i would have combined the two books in the series in one so it could hopefully have some interesting content and character building.
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