With These Last Breaths

Aisling Sea #3

by Vanessa Rasanen

Every journey must end... one way or another.

And in Declan's experience, that usually means death.

Death of his enemies. Death of his friends.

Their one hope of surviving is in the hands of a man he wants to see suffer... even if it means letting the darkness within take over.

But even if he retrieves the dagger, he could still lose everything.

He could still lose her.

He may not be good enough—he may not deserve her—but he's not about to let her go.

Not without a fight.

______________
This is the final book in the Aisling Sea series. Darker, grittier, spicier, this book contains anxiety representation, torture, violence, family drama, and on-page intimate scenes.

Genres: Fantasy, Pirates, Romantasy, Romance, Fae, Fantasy Romance, High Fantasy

496 pages, Paperback

Published August 15, 2023

About the author

Vanessa Rasanen is a former engineer turned fantasy romance author of emotionally charged stories full of love, adventure, and a bit of spice. When she's not writing swoony tension and broody good guys, she and her pilot husband can be found explaining to their four extroverted children why they have to live out in the middle of nowhere. Vanessa is a morning person who lives on coffee, potatoes, and gin (not at the same time) and could watch The Mummy and New Girl on repeat.

To learn more about Vanessa and her books, go to vanessarasanen.com
Bonus chapters and exclusive content are yours when you sign up for her newsletter.

Reviews

[wildnorthernerrr · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am never going to look at the words, “Aye, Captain.” The same ever again. 🥵

With These Last Breaths is final book of the series. 😭 I loved all the POV’s in this story, it makes for a fast paced read with lots of action. I was never bored.

One of my favorite parts was when the cinnamon roll Tommy said “F*** OFF.” to a certain someone.
**Chef’s kiss 🤌🏻

The spice was nicely done. There’s just enough without making it too much.

And the ending.. gahhhh. All the emotions. 🥺

Thank you to the author for an arc copy! ❤️‍🔥

[Merrit Townsend (always1morebook) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 3 in the Aisling Sea Series. I recommend reading in order due to the continuing storyline throughout the series. This is one of my favorite series ever and I promise, you do not want to miss 1 page of these fantasy novels.

I was blessed.....and I mean BLESSED to be able to read an early copy of this book. With These Last Breaths is the final saga of the Aisling Sea Series. While I am happy to have a conclusion to the story, I find myself having bittersweet emotions. I am going to miss the amazing characters that Vanessa has created within this world. Each very different and unique, but lovable all the same. I have shed numerous tears and even thrown my kindle across the room from some of the events that have occurred within this series. Having these emotions shows what a fantastic job that Vanessa has done. I literally look at her characters as family, I care about what happens to them. Again, this is a hats off moment to the amazing author that has given us her blood, sweat, and tears to give us these amazing characters, pirate world, and a gargantuan 3 book series.

I normally give a recap of what happens, but because this book has not been released yet, I do not want to spoil the greatness within the pages of the book. I am just going to say that this is Vanessa's best work to date and leave you to read it yourself. You can tell that she put forth an effort to give us an amazing read and I applaud her for this wonderful 5 star sensation. I had all the same emotions as I did in the last books but these felt different. Why you ask? Because I won't have a book to look forward to as this is the end. I will say this...... you do get conclusions to all your questions but I will not say more. You will want to go into this book without spoilers. Go preorder this baby now! You will want it as fast as they can ship it. I can't wait to see where we travel to next as I know Vanessa has a new world in her head to give us. Thank you for writing a series that I can call a favorite. If I could give this series 1000 stars I would but I will settle with 5. Well Done!

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect ending to this trilogy.

I absolutely adored this series and love the characters so much.

The spice in the third book D E L I V E R E D.

[Leonie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really hope this is not a reading slump incoming....

[V.K.]

DNF @ 66%

No rating, just not for me.

I felt like the story devolved into smut. Personally, spicy scenes don't bother me (more often than not, I find them hilariously ridiculous rather than enticing anyway), but I started skimming the overall story to find the plot rather than pining internal monologues. As I'm working on DNFing books that don't capture my attention, I decided to let this one go.

[Thais • tata.lifepages • · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG my heart 😭❤️ this trilogy is just so good and the last book I think I like even more than book 1 if that’s even possible !

[Faith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Finally!! Now I’m off to watch cats videos on TikTok
3.5⭐️
Might change the rating later, jury’s still out.

[Nell (nells.novels) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful, emotional conclusion to an adventurous series!

I have adored these characters and their journeys since I first set sail with them in the fall of 2022. Vanessa tells this story with such care and manages to weave an entire lifetime's worth of love and loss into these three books, even though the timeline only covers a matter of weeks.

It is fantasy. It is piracy. It is danger. It is bravery. Each character and their point of view provide glimpses of humanity, magic, loss, and so much love. I could write paragraphs about each character and what I love about them, but I urge you to read this series and find out for yourself. I enjoyed how this book ties up the stories of the crew, it gives closure and calm after the storm (even after it breaks your heart). It also leaves possibilities for them, gives them room to continue on their own paths, and stays true to the characters I met in the first pages of book one.

The Aisling Sea trilogy is bingeable and lovable. It is easy to follow and often heartwrenching to read. The slow burn is absolutely delicious and once you get to book three, you may just find yourself whispering "Aye, Captain" into the pages.

--

Thank you, Vanessa, for allowing me to be a part of the crew. As a new reader scuttling into your DMs as I panicked about the fate of Tommy or Declan in my first read-through, as a member of the WTLB street team this year, and in your community of kind, supportive readers that have become friends. I can't wait to read your next adventure!

[(old.enough.for.fairytales) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easily Rasanen’s best book yet.

I loved this book. Rasanen ended the series so perfectly. It could not have been more satisfying. The stakes were high, there was sadness and the necessary deaths, but then it just ended with such a warm and fuzzy but also heartbreaking feeling. It was perfect. It broke my heart while simultaneously putting it back together? I loved it so much.

Also can we talk about how expertly she navigated the multi POV?? It’s hard to do multi-POV….like, especially when you’ve got SEVEN, but it did not ever feel like too much and I never forgot whose POV I was reading. Her multi-POV style is very similar to SJM’s later TOG books and it was sooo good! All the POVs added something necessary to the story and never felt frivolous.

Highly recommend this series. Each book just gets better and better.

Thanks to the author for sending me an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Zoe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Why did some of these characters suddenly feel different? Did I miss Declan's inner darkness in the first two books?

Also, why was everyone suddenly having a romp? lol

3/5 stars for the awesome fantasy action and piratey parts. Feeling a bit confused about the rest.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guys, this is the pirate series that we’ve all been waiting for to be so for real. Everything you wanted out of PotC but better writing, better characters, and overall 10/10

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5*

[Lucii ;) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was definitely my favorite in the series. I loved the plot line and those characters 🫶🥹 (especially Cait and Adler 🤭)
4.5⭐️

[my.literary.addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

***ARC Review***

A huge thank you to Vanessa Rasanen for sending me this eARC. Thank you, thank you, thank you 😊. I am incredibly grateful!

This was one of the best reading experiences I’ve ever had. I loved the hell out of this book. I was not ready for this series to be over & I’m going to be selfish & say I need 1000+ more pages please. It is so good. If you are a fan of this series you do not want to wait to finish it. What these characters have to go through… emotional damage! I laughed, cried, screamed, gasped. Just an emotional roller coaster. What I love about this series is that the characters & situations are relatable & realistic so it’s very believable. Does that make sense? I cried several times by the end of this book. So be prepared.

Can we also talk about the relationships that are formed in this series? Not just the romantic relationships. We know those are to die for & some of my favorites I’ve read about. What I’m talking about is the friendships that come about. I’m not sure if many people really focus on those but the ones in this series are just 👩‍🍳 💋. I might say this too much but they are the best. Oh & the spice in this was done so well. With all the buildup from books one & two it was well worth the wait. I’ve been asking myself since the end of book two… who is going to be my favorite MMC. It’s a tie between Declan & Adler. I can’t choose so don’t make me! I love Tommy too but he gave me best friend vibes 😊. I think my favorite couple though was Cait & Adler. They melted my heart. I will always say you can’t go wrong with any of the characters being a favorite.

I feel like I’m forgetting about a million things I want to say about this book but in the end I really just loved it with all of my heart. This series goes on my ‘books that made me fall in love with reading’ shelf.

[Alison Gregor · Rating 3 out of 5]

This series went from mild to spicy with no warning. Also shockingly violent. Also did the author just forget about the King? Like one second he was there with this big mystery of his intentions and allegiances and then he was just… gone? Hello?

[Dani Trisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one guy is a pirate and calls the woman he likes “love” and I think my ovaries exploded

[Maria Elena | pagesofmaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5 stars
Spice: 2 peppers

And with this, my adventure across the Aisling Sea comes to a close. I’m going to miss the crew!

With These Last Breaths gave me everything I was hoping to see in the conclusion of this series. First and foremost, all the Declan and Aoife content was perfect, and I enjoyed their scenes a lot. I missed them interacting so much in the previous book that I might have been content with them just looking at each other. Their conversations were beautiful, and the things they did when they weren’t talking were as well. I especially loved seeing a softer side to Declan that only Aoife could have brought forth, and a tougher side to Aoife that comes out to protect Declan, both physically and emotionally.

As with the rest of the series, my favorite element of the book was the characters. Aside from Declan and Aoife, I especially loved Cait and Adler’s storyline. The intrigue, the danger, and seeing the two overcoming their own demons (distrust on Cait’s part, the loss of Lani on Adler’s) was amazing. They’re perfect for each other, and it was great seeing how falling in love with Cait doesn't erase all Adler felt for Lani, and that both love can be beautiful and can co-exist in his heart. Besides, might be my Once Upon a Time days, but I get weak when a pirate says “love”. As far as the other couple goes, Tommy and Maura, they grew on me in this installment. I believe they would have benefitted from a bit more build-up in the previous book that goes beyond them trying to resist their very sudden feelings, but perhaps the fact I enjoyed them on their own made me appreciate their scenes together more in this one!

The plot kept me on edge until the end. I mean, with a title like that, how could I not? But ultimately it wraps up nicely, though there’s one couple I wish would have had a different ending.

Thank you to the author for gifting me an eARC! Opinions are my own.

[Jess Trow · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given the chance to beta read WTLB. What follows is my honest opinion.

FANGIRL OPINION:
I love it! My god, I love it!! Vanessa, you’ve done it again! But now what am I going to do without the prospect of new adventures with Declan, Tommy, Aoife, and everyone else on the Aisling?
The answer: reread the entire series when the ARCs are sent out.

SERIOUS REVIEW:
Ok, so, the Aisling Sea series. I adore this series. I love the world building, the characters, the style of Vanessa’s writing and her ability to get inside her characters heads.

WTLB picks up directly following the events of FTDD, so I can’t really talk about any plot points without spoiling the previous two books. All you need to know in that regard is that Vanessa hasn’t skimped on plot. There’s so much happening, from the Rogues scheming, to the Council being evil, to the struggles the crew of the Siren’s Song are going through, and everything in between. No character is left to one side, everyone has a part to play.

I loved all the new POV’s, especially Adler’s, he has firmly cemented himself as peak book boyfriend material alongside Tommy and Declan. All three leading men are just 😘👌

The internal conflicts were also super engaging. Whether it was Declan and his relations with his crew, Cait worrying about the Rogues and second guessing her decisions, Aoife working through her anxiety and emotions, the way Vanessa writes these characters and their conflict feel so real. They go over the same details, re-examine things from different angles, fret over the tiniest details. As someone with anxiety, it makes me feel so seen to read something like this.

And the 🌶 🫠🫠🫠
It’s not explicit or too in your face, it’s not over the top, it’s not gratuitous and there just for the sake of it. It’s tender, it’s emotional, it’s hot, it’s sexy, but the spicier scenes also show our faves at their most intimate and vulnerable. They let their guards down, allow themselves to love and be loved, and it’s so refreshing to see spice written this way! NA doesn’t have to be extremely smutty to be excellent, folks!

All that to say, do yourself a favour, if you haven’t picked up this series, do so! You have a few months left until WTLB releases to catch up 🙌

[Talia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this conclusion to the story, there was so much action and drama. I loved theorising what was happening and who was going where and who was going to betray who.
I listened to the audiobook version and the narrator did an excellent job distinguishing the different characters voices. I do wish I had reread the first two books to remind myself of the characters' back stories and the location names but I am that person who says they'll reread and then randomly jumps in and hopes for the best! This is not a reflection of the story just a recommendation if it's been a while since you read book two! It was still easy to follow the main story, but I may have picked up on some of the more subtle things earlier.
I loved the ending, it had all the feels, all the drama, and enough at stake to keep the story going and interesting right to the last sentence.
I'd love more from the Aisling Sea world in the future!!

[Kari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gah… you guys. I’m not sure I can convey the depth of my feelings for the conclusion of this trilogy. But I’ll try!

The author left us hanging pretty hard on the book before this one, and this picks right up where we left off. You would think with the multiple POVs it would be hard to keep up with the story, but I actually loved it! (And I’m generally a “2 POVs max” kinda person. I think the author said this one had 7-8?) It really helped to be able to delve into each character, as well as what was happening in different parts of the world that each character was in. And, I’ll admit, Adler and Cait were my favorites. Don’t get me wrong, I love the two other main couples in the series, but those two won me over in this book. And I’m SO hoping we get more of their story!

[Ve (ve_xo) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Took me long enough to post my review! My old brain forgot haha but here I am to swoon over Declan.

Sad it’s over but happy with the wrap up! The Aisling sea series is perfect for lovers of slow burn romance, broody pirates, and an unexpected alliance. My favorite characters throughout the series are definitely Declan and Aiofe… but Cait and Adler made me doubt my preference of couples… and for sure my heart has a special place for Tommy. Rasanen gives us a little bit more spice between the love interests in this one, the plot has a bit of a push but is beautifully put together as the story unravels.

Absolutely loved the dynamic of the characters, the anxiety rep, the dual povs, and the inner monologue, makes the story so interesting! I am looking forward to reading more by Rasanen!

Huge thanks for sending me a copy of the book! All opinions are my own.

[Ajla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hii guys!! I wrote a review for each book in this series, so I'm gonna mostly concentrate on this one. I can say that "With these last breaths" was the most intense one, with a lot of things happening, plot twists, romance, intimate scenes etc. It really got me hooked, especially the last 100 pages, where I couldn't put the book down!!! I adore that we have several points of view, and with that, not just 1 main story. All the characters are connected with each other, but they still have their own path, their own story (you connect with every character deeply). I adore the LOVE in this book.. each couple and friendship is so different, found each other in a different way, but the love they have in their relationships is just WOW... The plot is incredible, the whole story is beautifuly written.. It helped me escape reality and I have to say, even if it has a happy ending, I'm still broken that this story is over because I really connected with these characters. My heart hurts because "the crew" went seperate ways in the end... It maybe sounds silly but I hope they visited each other in the future hahaha :) Perhaps, there is one thing I hoped for in the end, but it wasn't there.. some deep conversations between Aoife and Darienn, Declan and Cait, even Declan and Tommy (some emotional goodbyes, hugs, conversations about the haunting past, their love for each other etc.)

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hooo boy where to start with this one?

To say I was hotly anticipating WTLB is an UNDERSTATEMENT, and not just because my favorite ship (Adler and Cait FOREVER 😍) finally got some more page time. Would I fight Cait over Adler? Any day. Would I lose? Most definitely 😂

We get to see a lot of character growth for all our faves (both as individuals and within their relationships—cue awwwwws), and as for the dagger/Melina saga…well you’ll just have to read it to see what happens there. 😉
Will you laugh, cry, swoon, and maybe die a little inside? Probably.
Is it worth it?
ALWAYS.

With These Last Breaths is spicier than the previous books in the series, so if that’s not your vibe, there is a table of spice in the back of the book so you know what parts to skip. (You would, however, be missing a few *really* good lines…😜🥵)

Really though, this is probably my favorite book in the series. 10/10. Top tier. Absolutely recommend. I want more!!! (How long do we have to wait for the sequel duology, Vanessa???)

I LOVE THESE PIRATES (and one former pirate the most) ❤️

I received an advance copy from the author, a review was not required and all opinions are my own.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t have dreamed up a better ending to the Aisling Sea series.

With These Last Breaths is Vanessa Rasanen’s best writing to date. She did a spectacular job with the multiple POV in this book (this is coming from a single POV lover). Usually with multiple POV I find myself anxious to get back to certain characters, and feel like some chapters are just filler, but With These Last Breaths never felt that way. I was truly invested in every character’s story.

I have my favorite characters, and they have only gotten better as the series went on. Other characters have grown on and surprised me! The character growth throughout the series is very well done.

I love romance and this book definitely delivers. Prepare to feel all the feelings while reading this one! While steamier than others in the series, it is very tastefully done showcasing emotions without graphic detail.

“Call me love and I’m yours” now lives in my head forever. *Swoon*

I will miss these characters but I can’t wait to see what’s next for Vanessa!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so happy to be chosen to be given an ARC of this book! I absolutely adored the first two books of this trilogy and this finale did not disappoint😍👌🏻
It picks up right at the end of book 2 so this book did not let up one bit, the way the author switched pov’s throughout the whole book was amazing and brilliant to see. She wrapped up the characters arcs perfectly and nearly gave me a few heart attacks with there the plot was going😆 and the romances… ugh all of the couples were so cute they all had their moments to shine😍 All of the six main characters have been cemented in my favorite characters list, I absolutely love them all… Adler has taken the number 1 spot in my heart though🤩 I could go on and on how this is one of my favorite series, I would definitely recommend this to anyone who loves romantasy or pirates for that matter😌

[Alyssa Ann · Rating 2 out of 5]

Oof...
I almost DNF'd this book several times. If it wasn't the last book in the series and I didn't spend five bucks on it, I probably would have. Outside the main love interests, the other two couples in this series felt so inorganic and pushed.
I have many gripes about the story arcs of multiple characters, and there were too many loose strings left at the end of the book. It just felt like there could have been more. It wasn't a terrible read, but it just wasn't for me.

[adna · Rating 5 out of 5]

It may have taken me half a year to finally finish this, but it was not the book's fault. Mood readers always struggle.
For the longest time I wanted to give this four stars, but I realised that it was just too enjoyable overall to not give it five stars. It wasn't perfect, that's for sure, I do feel like some things were not handled well, but I prefer rating on my overall enjoyment.
I would have preferred a different kind of ending honestly, but it also wasn't half bad.

[Bookdragon_enchantress · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you don’t mind having a lot of POVs and jumping from one storyline to the next just when things get interesting… if you can get past that it’s a pretty great story. Filled with plot twists, brutal ends, along with happy endings it keeps you on your toes till the end.

[Jennifer Gibson · Rating 3 out of 5]

The romance to fantasy ratio was off. Needs more story

[Mayra · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book made me wish I was illiterate