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Pirates of New Earth #1
A Merry Life
Kat Wallace is on a mission. After escaping tortuous enslavement, she sets her sights on ending the human trafficking that has flourished in 24th century Earth. Adopted by the leader of the pirate nation of Bosch, Kat Wallace is determined to prove herself as a member of the Bosch Pirate Force and use her skills to avenge her enslavement and free other thralls. But unexpected love and a test of loyalty threaten to rob her of what she wants a home.
326 pages, Paperback
Published April 9, 2022
About the author
Sarah Branson
12 books108 followersAward-winning author Sarah Branson was a midwife for close to thirty years, helping families welcome their little ones into their arms in the hospital, at a birth center, and at home. Now she writes tales of action, adventure, revenge, and romance. Her stories are firmly rooted in the strength and resiliency of the human spirit.
Sarah first started conjuring stories of pirates when her family hopped a freighter to Australia when she was seven. As a child and as an adult, she traveled extensively across the US and the globe. Her children grew up in Northern Michigan, swimming in Sturgeon Bay and Little Traverse Bay. Over the years, she has worked as a receptionist, retail clerk, writing tutor, business owner, and certified nurse midwife. She also taught science and history to middle school and high school students in the U.S., Brazil, and Japan. Through these myriad experiences, Sarah developed a deep appreciation for people’s strength and endurance.
Her debut novel, A Merry Life, has been honored as the 2022 Connecticut Adult Fiction winner by the Indie Author Project, and was the 2022 Kindle Book Award winner for science fiction and was named a 2022 Book of the Year finalist in the action/adventure and science fiction categories by the Independent Author Network. It is the first book in the four-book new adult series Pirates of New Earth. The second book in the series, Navigating the Storm was a finalist for The Eric Hoffer Award. The series was followed by a young adult spin-off, Unfurling the Sails, a finalist for the 2023 Foreword Indies Award and for the 2024 Independent Author Network in both action/adventure and young adult categories. In 2024, A Pirates’ Pact, her first middle-grade book, was released and garnered a Best Book Cover Page Turner Award. A stand-alone novel, North Country, A Kat Wallace Adventure, is scheduled for publication in January 2025.
Sarah first started conjuring stories of pirates when her family hopped a freighter to Australia when she was seven. As a child and as an adult, she traveled extensively across the US and the globe. Her children grew up in Northern Michigan, swimming in Sturgeon Bay and Little Traverse Bay. Over the years, she has worked as a receptionist, retail clerk, writing tutor, business owner, and certified nurse midwife. She also taught science and history to middle school and high school students in the U.S., Brazil, and Japan. Through these myriad experiences, Sarah developed a deep appreciation for people’s strength and endurance.
Her debut novel, A Merry Life, has been honored as the 2022 Connecticut Adult Fiction winner by the Indie Author Project, and was the 2022 Kindle Book Award winner for science fiction and was named a 2022 Book of the Year finalist in the action/adventure and science fiction categories by the Independent Author Network. It is the first book in the four-book new adult series Pirates of New Earth. The second book in the series, Navigating the Storm was a finalist for The Eric Hoffer Award. The series was followed by a young adult spin-off, Unfurling the Sails, a finalist for the 2023 Foreword Indies Award and for the 2024 Independent Author Network in both action/adventure and young adult categories. In 2024, A Pirates’ Pact, her first middle-grade book, was released and garnered a Best Book Cover Page Turner Award. A stand-alone novel, North Country, A Kat Wallace Adventure, is scheduled for publication in January 2025.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
April 26, 2022
Four and a half stars graded up.
I enjoyed A Merry Life far more than I expected to. It’s well written, almost lyrical in some parts, without the many grammatical errors that usually see me giving up on a book before a quarter of the way through. I made it to the end of the book but not only that, I found myself eager to pick up my kindle to keep reading.
Kat’s story is compelling – don’t tell, but I even shed a tear or two – and the world-building is convincing. I can’t wait to read more books in the series so I can revisit that world.
No book is perfect and I usually have some gripes but for A Merry Life those gripes are few and relatively minor.
If you enjoy badass heroines (and who doesn’t?) and space pirates sound like your thing, don’t hesitate to give A Merry Life a chance. You’ll be glad you did.
Note: I received a free advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed A Merry Life far more than I expected to. It’s well written, almost lyrical in some parts, without the many grammatical errors that usually see me giving up on a book before a quarter of the way through. I made it to the end of the book but not only that, I found myself eager to pick up my kindle to keep reading.
Kat’s story is compelling – don’t tell, but I even shed a tear or two – and the world-building is convincing. I can’t wait to read more books in the series so I can revisit that world.
No book is perfect and I usually have some gripes but for A Merry Life those gripes are few and relatively minor.
If you enjoy badass heroines (and who doesn’t?) and space pirates sound like your thing, don’t hesitate to give A Merry Life a chance. You’ll be glad you did.
Note: I received a free advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2022
I enjoy a good sci fi/futuristic. Which is why I really liked this book. Instantly, I was drawn into the story as well as the world that author, Sarah built. Kat is the type of heroine that me and other readers need. She is a fighter who is willing to fight for what she believes in no matter how hard the situation gets.
Yet, Kat is not the only character that I was drawn to. The rest of the Bosch Pirate Force are engaging and enjoyable characters as well. It really helps when the characters are very engaging as it makes the story that more intriguing. Which I found myself reading several chapters at a time. I look forward to reading book two. A Merry Life is a delight read!
Yet, Kat is not the only character that I was drawn to. The rest of the Bosch Pirate Force are engaging and enjoyable characters as well. It really helps when the characters are very engaging as it makes the story that more intriguing. Which I found myself reading several chapters at a time. I look forward to reading book two. A Merry Life is a delight read!
June 21, 2026
Wow! What a fast paced Sci-Fi read that is packed with action, adventure and characters that will stay with you for a long time after you have finished the book.
Kat Wallace manages to escape from her life of excruciating enslavement and finds herself in Bosch, a Pirate nation. It is there that she finds a new found freedom, found family and the chance to join the Bosh Pirate Force. Kat vows that she will avenge all the suffering that she has endured and will free those who are still enslaved.
Kat is such an unforgettable character. She has been subjected to horrific experiences and torture within her lifetime yet still finds the strength, determination and grit to fight for what she believes in.
Just a heads up , there are moments within the book that are quite dark and there are triggering subjects such as SA that are addressed in detail. Please check the trigger warnings before reading.
A Merry Life is the first in the series, Pirates of a New Earth and I have already downloaded the second book in the series. I am keen to find out what happens next in Kat's journey!
A massive thank you to @bookpublicityservices & @author_sarah_branson for sending me a copy of this book!
Kat Wallace manages to escape from her life of excruciating enslavement and finds herself in Bosch, a Pirate nation. It is there that she finds a new found freedom, found family and the chance to join the Bosh Pirate Force. Kat vows that she will avenge all the suffering that she has endured and will free those who are still enslaved.
Kat is such an unforgettable character. She has been subjected to horrific experiences and torture within her lifetime yet still finds the strength, determination and grit to fight for what she believes in.
Just a heads up , there are moments within the book that are quite dark and there are triggering subjects such as SA that are addressed in detail. Please check the trigger warnings before reading.
A Merry Life is the first in the series, Pirates of a New Earth and I have already downloaded the second book in the series. I am keen to find out what happens next in Kat's journey!
A massive thank you to @bookpublicityservices & @author_sarah_branson for sending me a copy of this book!
June 4, 2026
Audiobook Review⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to the author @author_sarah_branson and @bookpublicityservices for the #gifted audiobook.
WOW. This book completely surprised me in the best way! From the very first chapters, I was hooked and found myself fully invested in the story. I honestly wasn’t expecting to love it as much as I did, but this action-packed sci-fi adventure had me turning pages (and listening for every spare minute) until the very end.
Set in the 24th century, the story follows Kat Wallace, a survivor of human trafficking who finds a new purpose and sense of belonging within Bosch, a pirate nation. As she works to build a new life and serve her new community, an unexpected romance forces her to question where her loyalties truly lie. The combination of high-stakes adventure, emotional depth, found family, and romance made this such an engaging and memorable read.
And can we talk about the audiobook? Helen Laser was absolutely phenomenal! She brought so much life, emotion, and energy to the story and truly captured the spirit of the book. Her performance elevated an already fantastic story, and I would happily listen to this audiobook again. I’ll definitely be looking for more books narrated by her in the future.
If you enjoy sci-fi adventures with pirates, action, heart, and characters you can’t help but root for, I highly recommend picking this one up. I cannot wait to continue the Pirates of New Earth series!
Thank you to the author @author_sarah_branson and @bookpublicityservices for the #gifted audiobook.
WOW. This book completely surprised me in the best way! From the very first chapters, I was hooked and found myself fully invested in the story. I honestly wasn’t expecting to love it as much as I did, but this action-packed sci-fi adventure had me turning pages (and listening for every spare minute) until the very end.
Set in the 24th century, the story follows Kat Wallace, a survivor of human trafficking who finds a new purpose and sense of belonging within Bosch, a pirate nation. As she works to build a new life and serve her new community, an unexpected romance forces her to question where her loyalties truly lie. The combination of high-stakes adventure, emotional depth, found family, and romance made this such an engaging and memorable read.
And can we talk about the audiobook? Helen Laser was absolutely phenomenal! She brought so much life, emotion, and energy to the story and truly captured the spirit of the book. Her performance elevated an already fantastic story, and I would happily listen to this audiobook again. I’ll definitely be looking for more books narrated by her in the future.
If you enjoy sci-fi adventures with pirates, action, heart, and characters you can’t help but root for, I highly recommend picking this one up. I cannot wait to continue the Pirates of New Earth series!
May 25, 2026
Sci-Fi Adventure Romance | Pirates of New Earth #1
Escaped slave Kat joins a pirate crew to fight trafficking and build a new life. Family, revenge, love, and loyalty collide in this rich, thrilling future world. Action-packed, heartfelt, and unforgettable.
Slavery, trauma, violence; handled sensitively
Epic, emotional, and totally immersive—brilliant start to the series! ⚔️✨
Escaped slave Kat joins a pirate crew to fight trafficking and build a new life. Family, revenge, love, and loyalty collide in this rich, thrilling future world. Action-packed, heartfelt, and unforgettable.
Slavery, trauma, violence; handled sensitively
Epic, emotional, and totally immersive—brilliant start to the series! ⚔️✨
July 24, 2022
Well I didn't go into this book thinking I would cry, but sure enough I did. It was so amazing. A different take on the pirate life. I read it so fast. I can't wait for the next book in this series. I wish I had it now because I would surely binge read it.
July 17, 2022
A Sojourner Truth of a protagonist
Kat is fierce and determined to save other young women from the kind of slavery she endured (& from which she escaped by luck & skill). And she loves the family who take her in & teach her to be a pirate/soldier, as well the children she raises in her (somewhat vexed) marriage. She’s also impetuous, even rash, in ways that complicate her life & alliances. An interesting type!
Kat is fierce and determined to save other young women from the kind of slavery she endured (& from which she escaped by luck & skill). And she loves the family who take her in & teach her to be a pirate/soldier, as well the children she raises in her (somewhat vexed) marriage. She’s also impetuous, even rash, in ways that complicate her life & alliances. An interesting type!
April 28, 2022
loved it!
I had no idea what to expect coming into this but I was immediately captured by the story line. I didn’t want to put it down! I am excited to see what happens next for Kat. Definitely recommend!
I had no idea what to expect coming into this but I was immediately captured by the story line. I didn’t want to put it down! I am excited to see what happens next for Kat. Definitely recommend!
June 19, 2026
A Merry Life is not my typical genre; however, I thoroughly enjoyed this narrative where dystopian fiction, science fiction, and suspense collide. Branson masterfully shifts between scenes while steadily building tension throughout the story. I also had the opportunity to listen to the audiobook, and the narration elevated the experience even further. A compelling and immersive read from start to finish.
Thank you to Sarah Branson and Book Publicity Services for the opportunity to listen and to leave a review.
Thank you to Sarah Branson and Book Publicity Services for the opportunity to listen and to leave a review.
May 7, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. It is a page turning thriller disguised as science fiction. We find ourselves on New Earth about three hundred years from now. No ray guns, no light sabers, no aliens from other planets, just an earth that is a water world. Kat Wallace is an escaped thrall (slave) who happened to stow away on Commander Teddy Bosch's ship. She is taken in by Bosch and trains to be a Bosch pirate. Her personal goal is to get back to punish her former owner for all the mistreatments to her and other thralls. There is much more to the story and it seems that a lot of things have not changed in three hundred years.
I highly recommend this book. Do not be put off by the science fiction description if you are not a fan. Embrace it if you are a science fiction fan.
I highly recommend this book. Do not be put off by the science fiction description if you are not a fan. Embrace it if you are a science fiction fan.
February 20, 2026
This is a challenge to review. The story is generally well written, and I wanted to know what would happen. It's clearly the first book in a series, and I'll read the second. But I didn't always love the the time jumps and shifting POVs, which were sometimes disruptive. There are also weirdly unresolved threads. Not than once someone does a big bad thing that is just glossed over never mentioned again. Despite being
* post eco-acopalypse with air-ship-flying drug-mining and -running pirates, and
* needing CW's for human trafficking, on-page violence, SA, and some other weighty topics, the story is ... almost cozy fantasy with the lack of genuine conflict or realistic follow-up for Kat's trauma or anyone's behavior.
* post eco-acopalypse with air-ship-flying drug-mining and -running pirates, and
* needing CW's for human trafficking, on-page violence, SA, and some other weighty topics, the story is ... almost cozy fantasy with the lack of genuine conflict or realistic follow-up for Kat's trauma or anyone's behavior.
May 15, 2022
So fun, a futuristic pirate adventure with a heartwarming family story intertwined.
August 6, 2022
I was so excited for this book after reading the blurb and it did not disappoint! The Merry Life is a sci-fi, futuristic novel that drew me in from the first page. Kat Wallace was an amazing character. Her courageous, confident, unapologetic, and determined nature is what drew me to her character. This was a beautifully written novel about Kat, the injustices she faced, and how it shaped her into a fearless woman who fights for what she believes in.
This was a compelling read which I could not put down! I’m looking forward to reading more in this series!
Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was a compelling read which I could not put down! I’m looking forward to reading more in this series!
Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
April 29, 2022
Kat Wallace is a Thrall, a slave, to an unbelievably rich and powerful man. After three failed escape attempts – for which she’s faced almost life ending beatings, she finally manages to stow away on a small plane (or vessel). There, she’s taken into the care of a Pirate Captain, and given the chance to start to live her life.
It is the second half of the 24th century, and earth as we know it has been ravaged. Floods, fires and pandemics (sound familiar?) have decimated land mass and the population. New nations have risen and new civilisations flourish – a Federal Alliance runs most of the planet – protecting its peoples; but as with most civilisations their reach is only so far. In some areas crime, trafficking and drugs are still the main currency.
What follows is a story that meanders beautifully over the next eight or so years of Kat’s life. She’s adopted into the kindly Pirate Captain’s family, and becomes a Pirate herself. She learns to love her new family as well as give her heart to a man. She learns how to be patient, how to stay her hand when the opportunity for revenge presents itself at an unexpected moment. She becomes everything she never thought she would be, a leader, a daughter, a wife and a mother. As Kat’s story unfolds, your heart will break along with hers; you’ll feel her joy and her terror.
As the book reached its climax, I was sobbing. A testament to how beautifully written this was. It was a true rollercoaster – with soaring highs, a few belly laughs, true desperation and overwhelming sadness. I sincerely look forward to the next instalment in Kat’s story.
S.A.
I originally reviewed this book on Reedsy Discovery, via their Advanced Reader Program.
It is the second half of the 24th century, and earth as we know it has been ravaged. Floods, fires and pandemics (sound familiar?) have decimated land mass and the population. New nations have risen and new civilisations flourish – a Federal Alliance runs most of the planet – protecting its peoples; but as with most civilisations their reach is only so far. In some areas crime, trafficking and drugs are still the main currency.
What follows is a story that meanders beautifully over the next eight or so years of Kat’s life. She’s adopted into the kindly Pirate Captain’s family, and becomes a Pirate herself. She learns to love her new family as well as give her heart to a man. She learns how to be patient, how to stay her hand when the opportunity for revenge presents itself at an unexpected moment. She becomes everything she never thought she would be, a leader, a daughter, a wife and a mother. As Kat’s story unfolds, your heart will break along with hers; you’ll feel her joy and her terror.
As the book reached its climax, I was sobbing. A testament to how beautifully written this was. It was a true rollercoaster – with soaring highs, a few belly laughs, true desperation and overwhelming sadness. I sincerely look forward to the next instalment in Kat’s story.
S.A.
I originally reviewed this book on Reedsy Discovery, via their Advanced Reader Program.
May 28, 2026
A Merry Life is book 1 in the Pirates Of New Earth series. It was definitely a fun adventure, it was original and different. The world building was not overly complicated, so it was easy for me to comprehend. There were a lot of time jumps and shifting POV’s that did sometimes confuse me but the story was so immersive that it did manage to hold my attention. The storyline was fun to follow, filled with action that had my head spinning and kept me invested.
The FMC Kat was such a badass and I loved her character so much. Her story is heartbreaking at times but the way she grows from what she's been through is amazing. I loved watching her learn new skills and become even stronger than she already was.
Overall, this is definitely a different and original read that had me intrigued. It didn't disappoint and I'm glad I gave it a shot. I love that I'm expanding my reading horizons this year!
✨ Thank you to @bookpublicityservices & @sarahbranson for my gifted copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
The FMC Kat was such a badass and I loved her character so much. Her story is heartbreaking at times but the way she grows from what she's been through is amazing. I loved watching her learn new skills and become even stronger than she already was.
Overall, this is definitely a different and original read that had me intrigued. It didn't disappoint and I'm glad I gave it a shot. I love that I'm expanding my reading horizons this year!
✨ Thank you to @bookpublicityservices & @sarahbranson for my gifted copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 22, 2022
Thank you to my partners @katerockbooktours and @author_sarah_branson for partnering with me and #gifting me a copy of this book!
Thoughts: I was originally attracted to the idea of this book because duh there are pirates included in it. I am expanding my horizons some lately and thought who doesn’t love a badass pirate?! That’s exactly what Kat Wallace is in this book. I loved her character. She was hard core, unapologetic for her mouth and actions and overall going to kick your booty if you cross her. As a young girl she was wronged and with courage and determination escaped. I absolutely loved her relationship she formed with her adoptive Mom and Dad. There is something about amazing parent child relationships I am drawn to in books. 💕
Thoughts: I was originally attracted to the idea of this book because duh there are pirates included in it. I am expanding my horizons some lately and thought who doesn’t love a badass pirate?! That’s exactly what Kat Wallace is in this book. I loved her character. She was hard core, unapologetic for her mouth and actions and overall going to kick your booty if you cross her. As a young girl she was wronged and with courage and determination escaped. I absolutely loved her relationship she formed with her adoptive Mom and Dad. There is something about amazing parent child relationships I am drawn to in books. 💕
April 21, 2026
Wow, talk about a roller coaster of emotions! The FMC, Kat, is an absolute bad@ss from beginning to end! Her eagerness to fight for what’s right, while also living her life to the fullest is so empowering! Definitely not your typical pirate story, but soooo good!
April 18, 2026
This book was absolutely action packed from page one! Kat Wallace is a force to be reckoned with and an unforgettable character. The story is all consuming and by the end of the book, it feels like her journey is just getting started!
March 23, 2026
A pirate tale, told in the 24th century, great themes of love, revenge, and growth - 4/5 stars
This book shocked me by how enjoyable it was. Kat is such a wonderful FMC, and purely embodies not wanting to take any s**t from anyone. Having the ultimate support group around her was great, and seeing "mama" and "papa" bring her in and love her as if she was their own was great.
I did hope for a little more comraderie from her peers throughout to form more of a ragtag group, but being the standoffish fighter that she is, that was hard, and I think the book depicted that well.
Despite taking place in the 24th century, this book provided a great narrative into some things going on now, and I do think that is a tell of a great dystopian/sci-fi novel. I do wish there was a tad more in the book about the fall of civilization as we know it now, but maybe that comes later in the series, which I do think I will continue.
Thank you to Sarah Branson, and Book Publicity Services for this opportunity! This book was sent to me as a paperback and an audiobook (I used both formats and did love the narrator) for free in exchange for a HONEST review.
This book shocked me by how enjoyable it was. Kat is such a wonderful FMC, and purely embodies not wanting to take any s**t from anyone. Having the ultimate support group around her was great, and seeing "mama" and "papa" bring her in and love her as if she was their own was great.
I did hope for a little more comraderie from her peers throughout to form more of a ragtag group, but being the standoffish fighter that she is, that was hard, and I think the book depicted that well.
Despite taking place in the 24th century, this book provided a great narrative into some things going on now, and I do think that is a tell of a great dystopian/sci-fi novel. I do wish there was a tad more in the book about the fall of civilization as we know it now, but maybe that comes later in the series, which I do think I will continue.
Thank you to Sarah Branson, and Book Publicity Services for this opportunity! This book was sent to me as a paperback and an audiobook (I used both formats and did love the narrator) for free in exchange for a HONEST review.
April 13, 2022
“Dying is not an option. At least not today. Freedom is my only goal.”
Summary:
The old earth is gone, and the new earth is come but for Kat, All she’s ever known is pain and heartache. Growing up in a family unloved and unwanted, she becomes a property of a proud man with huge goals and dark secrets. This first book in the series, follows her journey of achieving freedom, physically, emotionally, and relationally.
Review:
Overall I gave this book 3 stars, I enjoyed the concept, and the ideas behind the characters, but I often feel confused. I felt confused with the timeline and there were some plot holes/ Places I felt were rushed to move the story along. The main character, appears to be strong, and have a growth sequence, but it feels at both Rushes and slow. This first book takes place over a 10-15 year Gap, so that may have contributed to feelings of disjointed this, and confusion.
Would I read the next book is given the chance? Probably. I would like to see the rest of kat’s healing journey, and see justice served. There are several different ways the author could go with a story, and I would be curious to see where they go with it.
Trigger warnings, sexual assault, rape.
DISCLAIMER: I received a free advanced copy of this book With the hope that I would provide an honest review.
Summary:
The old earth is gone, and the new earth is come but for Kat, All she’s ever known is pain and heartache. Growing up in a family unloved and unwanted, she becomes a property of a proud man with huge goals and dark secrets. This first book in the series, follows her journey of achieving freedom, physically, emotionally, and relationally.
Review:
Overall I gave this book 3 stars, I enjoyed the concept, and the ideas behind the characters, but I often feel confused. I felt confused with the timeline and there were some plot holes/ Places I felt were rushed to move the story along. The main character, appears to be strong, and have a growth sequence, but it feels at both Rushes and slow. This first book takes place over a 10-15 year Gap, so that may have contributed to feelings of disjointed this, and confusion.
Would I read the next book is given the chance? Probably. I would like to see the rest of kat’s healing journey, and see justice served. There are several different ways the author could go with a story, and I would be curious to see where they go with it.
Trigger warnings, sexual assault, rape.
DISCLAIMER: I received a free advanced copy of this book With the hope that I would provide an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2026
This was an adventure of a novel - sci fi, futuristic pirates on airships, and a strong willed female main character? Yes, please!
September 26, 2022
The world building in this book is fabulous. There is so much potential for these books and spin off books about other characters.
I listened to this book over the span of three days.
The beginning was great and I loved the female lead. She's tough as nails and willing to throw a few punches. The main male lead... not so much. I didn't feel much chemistry between he and the female lead. I have a poor impression of him. He feels like a playboy to me, and slimy.
The first half of the book feels very well paced. The second half feels very rushed. Kat's mother-in-law attempts to have her killed, Kat has 3 children she gives birth to, and she has vague memories of a child somewhere that may or may not be alive. These things are glazed over with minimal attention given to trouble shooting or overcoming/addressing these events.
Most irritatingly- Kat's significant other and the children have put a kabosh on her ability to be a space pirate. She is no longer permitted to run missions. Thus there is no longer any thrilling scenes. Instead the book feels very "slice of life" versus action and adventure. Kat's significant other doesn't feel supportive. Her needs always feel second to his own. Eh.
I listened to this book over the span of three days.
The beginning was great and I loved the female lead. She's tough as nails and willing to throw a few punches. The main male lead... not so much. I didn't feel much chemistry between he and the female lead. I have a poor impression of him. He feels like a playboy to me, and slimy.
The first half of the book feels very well paced. The second half feels very rushed. Kat's mother-in-law attempts to have her killed, Kat has 3 children she gives birth to, and she has vague memories of a child somewhere that may or may not be alive. These things are glazed over with minimal attention given to trouble shooting or overcoming/addressing these events.
Most irritatingly- Kat's significant other and the children have put a kabosh on her ability to be a space pirate. She is no longer permitted to run missions. Thus there is no longer any thrilling scenes. Instead the book feels very "slice of life" versus action and adventure. Kat's significant other doesn't feel supportive. Her needs always feel second to his own. Eh.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2024
This was the best book I've read in a while. Branson takes what could have been an overused trope (young adult female badass in a dystopian future) and transforms it into something new, exciting, and hard-to-put-down.
Kat, the main character, is irresistibly likeable; you quickly develop a connection with her character, so that her joys are your joys, and her pains are your pains. I realized while reading a particularly climatic part of the book that *my* heart was actually beating faster. That's how much Branson pulls you in.
This book feels like an open secret that Book-Tok (and other "must read" lists) haven't caught on to yet. But I doubt it will stay that way for long. I've already recommended this book to several friends, and I can't wait to read the next one.
Kat, the main character, is irresistibly likeable; you quickly develop a connection with her character, so that her joys are your joys, and her pains are your pains. I realized while reading a particularly climatic part of the book that *my* heart was actually beating faster. That's how much Branson pulls you in.
This book feels like an open secret that Book-Tok (and other "must read" lists) haven't caught on to yet. But I doubt it will stay that way for long. I've already recommended this book to several friends, and I can't wait to read the next one.
April 19, 2026
**3.5 stars**
Content Warning: mention of -grooming, sexual assault, rape, abuse; slavery, violence, death
I was asked to read and review this book and was gifted the audiobook on Audible. The narrator’s voice was great and really drew me into the story! I don’t usually read sci-fi/fantasy, and I wasn’t sure how I would feel about this one but I was interested in the FMC, Kat Wallace, right away. Just from the beginning chapters alone you know she’s a survivor and she’s going to have one amazing story – and I was right. The world building about this futuristic Earth is very fascinating.
Kat is a thrall, a slave, and she’s trying to escape when Teddy, the leader of the pirate nation of Bosch, saves her and takes her home. She basically becomes his adopted daughter and what a relationship they have from start to the emotional finish.
I was really invested in Kat’s life from being new in Bosch, getting to know Teddy’s family, becoming strong and knowledgable with the goal of taking down the man who owned her and assaulted her. With Teddy’s guidance, his family (her new family), new friends and even a new love life – Kat becomes an amazing woman. Though she doesn’t quite carry out her revenge, I think that’s why this is a series and hopefully I can get around to reading the other books to see what happens next.
Now there were some time jumps that felt kind of quick in the story. Like one day she’s a trainee and next she’s on a mission and it’s almost a year later and these time jumps were jarring. The romance in her life happens fast too – despite her having trauma in her past. Also…maybe this gets brought up more in the next books but Teddy’s operation of selling glitter (a drug), is concerning and Kat brings it up – it’s not okay and she wants to change that but later on seems to accept it as is – but I hope in the next books, she ends this glitter trade. Another thing I would have loved was more pirating in the story.
Final Thoughts:
If you like sci-fi, fantasy and dystopian stories, I think this would appeal to you. I loved the narrator and though it feels like the book just follows Kat’s very interesting life, it glosses over some things that I wish we had more time with like the romance, and the pirating. The world building is great and I didn’t expect the emotional ending. I’m hoping in the next books in the series, Kat gets her revenge though!
Read if you like:
sci-fi/dystopian
space pirates
strong FMC
Content Warning: mention of -grooming, sexual assault, rape, abuse; slavery, violence, death
I was asked to read and review this book and was gifted the audiobook on Audible. The narrator’s voice was great and really drew me into the story! I don’t usually read sci-fi/fantasy, and I wasn’t sure how I would feel about this one but I was interested in the FMC, Kat Wallace, right away. Just from the beginning chapters alone you know she’s a survivor and she’s going to have one amazing story – and I was right. The world building about this futuristic Earth is very fascinating.
Kat is a thrall, a slave, and she’s trying to escape when Teddy, the leader of the pirate nation of Bosch, saves her and takes her home. She basically becomes his adopted daughter and what a relationship they have from start to the emotional finish.
I was really invested in Kat’s life from being new in Bosch, getting to know Teddy’s family, becoming strong and knowledgable with the goal of taking down the man who owned her and assaulted her. With Teddy’s guidance, his family (her new family), new friends and even a new love life – Kat becomes an amazing woman. Though she doesn’t quite carry out her revenge, I think that’s why this is a series and hopefully I can get around to reading the other books to see what happens next.
Now there were some time jumps that felt kind of quick in the story. Like one day she’s a trainee and next she’s on a mission and it’s almost a year later and these time jumps were jarring. The romance in her life happens fast too – despite her having trauma in her past. Also…maybe this gets brought up more in the next books but Teddy’s operation of selling glitter (a drug), is concerning and Kat brings it up – it’s not okay and she wants to change that but later on seems to accept it as is – but I hope in the next books, she ends this glitter trade. Another thing I would have loved was more pirating in the story.
Final Thoughts:
If you like sci-fi, fantasy and dystopian stories, I think this would appeal to you. I loved the narrator and though it feels like the book just follows Kat’s very interesting life, it glosses over some things that I wish we had more time with like the romance, and the pirating. The world building is great and I didn’t expect the emotional ending. I’m hoping in the next books in the series, Kat gets her revenge though!
Read if you like:
sci-fi/dystopian
space pirates
strong FMC
March 19, 2023
The book "A Merry Life" by Sarah Branson is stirring and action-packed authored by Sarah Branson. The story begins with Kat Wallace, a former slave who has been adopted by the head of a pirate nation. Her purpose is to terminate human trafficking and free other thralls who have been subjected to the related kind of suffering she had to undergo.
🥀This is a breathtaking journey that takes the readers on a voyage through space and time, where they'll confront pirates, love interests, and an experience of patriotism and devotion that jeopardizes her and derail her mission. The author's writing manner is fast-paced, and she excellently intertwines together the diverse range of ingredients of the story to develop a cohesive and charming narrative.
🥀The characters are well inscribed, and readers will discover themselves rooting for Kat as she drives the difficulties that occur her way. She expertly depicts the internal and frequently antagonistic anxieties that encourage Kat, who simultaneously craves affection, and admittance yet is almost ready to stake her contentment, family and home for vengeance. Kat’s twin intentions of retribution for the indescribable harm done to her and to put a stop to enslavement are the things that leads her way with determination and enthusiasm.
🥀It is a wonderful outset book of the whole series Pirates of New Earth. The author has created an exhilarating realm crammed with fascinating characters, and readers will be interested to read where the story goes next. I'm excited to browse the following book in the series and can't wait to glimpse what adventures Kat and the rest of the pirate crew will embark on next.
🥀This is a breathtaking journey that takes the readers on a voyage through space and time, where they'll confront pirates, love interests, and an experience of patriotism and devotion that jeopardizes her and derail her mission. The author's writing manner is fast-paced, and she excellently intertwines together the diverse range of ingredients of the story to develop a cohesive and charming narrative.
🥀The characters are well inscribed, and readers will discover themselves rooting for Kat as she drives the difficulties that occur her way. She expertly depicts the internal and frequently antagonistic anxieties that encourage Kat, who simultaneously craves affection, and admittance yet is almost ready to stake her contentment, family and home for vengeance. Kat’s twin intentions of retribution for the indescribable harm done to her and to put a stop to enslavement are the things that leads her way with determination and enthusiasm.
🥀It is a wonderful outset book of the whole series Pirates of New Earth. The author has created an exhilarating realm crammed with fascinating characters, and readers will be interested to read where the story goes next. I'm excited to browse the following book in the series and can't wait to glimpse what adventures Kat and the rest of the pirate crew will embark on next.
May 31, 2026
🏴☠️✨ Book Review: A Merry Life by Sarah Branson✨🏴☠️
Some books find you at exactly the right time, and A Merry Life was one of those books for me.
When Sarah Branson and her team reached out and asked if I would review this book, I was honored. As a female military veteran who has experienced traumatic events similar to those faced by the main character, I was honestly hesitant to pick it up. What I discovered, though, was a story that was powerful, inspiring, and exactly what I needed.
In this futuristic adventure, we meet Kat Wallace, a young woman living in the 24th century who has been enslaved and trafficked to the wealthy elite. When she takes a chance and stows away on a pirate ship, her life changes forever.
Kat finds herself in the nation of Bosch, a vibrant island populated by bold, independent, opportunistic, and courageous pirates. For the first time, she begins to discover who she truly is. She finds purpose, belonging, and a family she never knew she needed. As a member of the Bosch Pirate Force, Kat is determined to use her skills to fight back, free others from enslavement, and seek justice for what was done to her. But the path to freedom is never as straightforward as it seems.
This story is filled with resilience, found family, courage, healing, and hope. Watching Kat grow into her strength was an incredible journey, and I was rooting for her every step of the way.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars!
This is the first book in the series, and you can bet I'll be continuing the adventure. If you love strong female characters, found family, pirate adventures, and stories about reclaiming your power, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
Some books find you at exactly the right time, and A Merry Life was one of those books for me.
When Sarah Branson and her team reached out and asked if I would review this book, I was honored. As a female military veteran who has experienced traumatic events similar to those faced by the main character, I was honestly hesitant to pick it up. What I discovered, though, was a story that was powerful, inspiring, and exactly what I needed.
In this futuristic adventure, we meet Kat Wallace, a young woman living in the 24th century who has been enslaved and trafficked to the wealthy elite. When she takes a chance and stows away on a pirate ship, her life changes forever.
Kat finds herself in the nation of Bosch, a vibrant island populated by bold, independent, opportunistic, and courageous pirates. For the first time, she begins to discover who she truly is. She finds purpose, belonging, and a family she never knew she needed. As a member of the Bosch Pirate Force, Kat is determined to use her skills to fight back, free others from enslavement, and seek justice for what was done to her. But the path to freedom is never as straightforward as it seems.
This story is filled with resilience, found family, courage, healing, and hope. Watching Kat grow into her strength was an incredible journey, and I was rooting for her every step of the way.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars!
This is the first book in the series, and you can bet I'll be continuing the adventure. If you love strong female characters, found family, pirate adventures, and stories about reclaiming your power, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
May 15, 2025
2.75 🌟
Ugh, I'm so sad with the wasted potential :'( The first half of the story was great! Then the romance happened and a conveniently placed pregnancy. There was not nearly enough pirating to call this a space pirate book. It was more a "Woman turned mother with failed dreams" slice of life.
First of all, I really didn't like Takai. She tells him "Hey I have sexual trauma" and he goes "No worries, we'll do this on your own time". Then his ex happens to get a flight with them and he drops her like a hot potato?!?!?! THEN CHEATS ON THE EX WITH THE FMC?!?! Repeat after me, a man who cheats WITH you will probably cheat ON you. Then his parents basically tell him to abandon her on her planet and how she's horrible, he doesn't stick up for her! He just says "I'll see what I can do" 😒 He always puts himself and his career over her dreams of her own career. He puts up a stink every time she wants to see her family or live near them instead of her MURDEROUS MOTHER IN LAW. For a female character touted to be so strong and independent, she lost every bit of mettle after the 50% mark. She had more chemistry with Phil the attorney than her own husband.
Lastly, this whole story was tell and not enough show. We only get a little tasting of action when it came to the whole space pirates thing. Everything happened too fast for actual development. One second Kat is going through the feelings from her sexual trauma, the next she is suddenly ok with kissing is BOOM preggers. Don't get me started on how rushed the ending was with her papa's death.
Ugh, I'm so sad with the wasted potential :'( The first half of the story was great! Then the romance happened and a conveniently placed pregnancy. There was not nearly enough pirating to call this a space pirate book. It was more a "Woman turned mother with failed dreams" slice of life.
First of all, I really didn't like Takai. She tells him "Hey I have sexual trauma" and he goes "No worries, we'll do this on your own time". Then his ex happens to get a flight with them and he drops her like a hot potato?!?!?! THEN CHEATS ON THE EX WITH THE FMC?!?! Repeat after me, a man who cheats WITH you will probably cheat ON you. Then his parents basically tell him to abandon her on her planet and how she's horrible, he doesn't stick up for her! He just says "I'll see what I can do" 😒 He always puts himself and his career over her dreams of her own career. He puts up a stink every time she wants to see her family or live near them instead of her MURDEROUS MOTHER IN LAW. For a female character touted to be so strong and independent, she lost every bit of mettle after the 50% mark. She had more chemistry with Phil the attorney than her own husband.
Lastly, this whole story was tell and not enough show. We only get a little tasting of action when it came to the whole space pirates thing. Everything happened too fast for actual development. One second Kat is going through the feelings from her sexual trauma, the next she is suddenly ok with kissing is BOOM preggers. Don't get me started on how rushed the ending was with her papa's death.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2025
It's not a children's book or a Young Adult book, but it still felt awfully childish.
The protagonist joins a nation of avowed pirates. Pirates that don't seem to actually go out and commit piracy all that often. They're Disney pirates. There's a mention or two of going out to steal things, but it's always small scale, and treated like some sort of lark. Oh, and they sell drugs to other nations, a pretty serious ethical issue that's pretty much glossed over.
The action scenes feel sanitized. Lots of shots get fired, but with few exceptions, no one ever gets hit on either side.
The main character behaves more like a particularly bad-tempered child than adult. She's constantly blowing her stack or on the verge of tears over minor things. She makes huge, life-changing decisions just because she's angry and being unreasonable.
The narrative frequently jumps over crucial events. One moment the protagonist says she's going to rescue someone, next she's in a cage and reveals she let herself be captured, and the next page she's
not only escaped, it's months later.
Over and over, instead of *seeing* what happens to the protagonist, the author *tells* us what happened after it's all over. Sometimes these gaps in the narrative are years, years in which fairly important things happen.
The protagonist joins a nation of avowed pirates. Pirates that don't seem to actually go out and commit piracy all that often. They're Disney pirates. There's a mention or two of going out to steal things, but it's always small scale, and treated like some sort of lark. Oh, and they sell drugs to other nations, a pretty serious ethical issue that's pretty much glossed over.
The action scenes feel sanitized. Lots of shots get fired, but with few exceptions, no one ever gets hit on either side.
The main character behaves more like a particularly bad-tempered child than adult. She's constantly blowing her stack or on the verge of tears over minor things. She makes huge, life-changing decisions just because she's angry and being unreasonable.
The narrative frequently jumps over crucial events. One moment the protagonist says she's going to rescue someone, next she's in a cage and reveals she let herself be captured, and the next page she's
not only escaped, it's months later.
Over and over, instead of *seeing* what happens to the protagonist, the author *tells* us what happened after it's all over. Sometimes these gaps in the narrative are years, years in which fairly important things happen.
February 12, 2023
Kat has had a rough life and when she escapes, she has a chance to change her life and become a pirate. So many thing happen to her over the course of several years that it's impossible to list them all.
Possible spoilers:
- Pregnancy: I generally don't like the "surprise pregnancy" trope, but this time it doesn't ruin the book by becoming the focus.
- Also, I hate Yumiko. 😂 I don't think I have hated a character so much since Umbridge (for all my fellow HP fans).
I honestly don't know where to start with this book. There's so much going on and I loved it all. There's action and adventure, character growth and so much more.
I have waited to read this until I had time to read all 3 books in a row. I have been hyping this up in my head and honestly, it lives up to the hype and then some. Once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. I found myself thinking about it constantly and even not sleeping so I could read it.
I haven't been so invested in a character in a long time. Kat is seriously bad @$$ and I love her. I love seeing her growth over the years. Everything she has been through and over come makes her even more lovable. I can't wait to read the rest of the series to see if she gets the justice she deserves.
Possible spoilers:
- Pregnancy: I generally don't like the "surprise pregnancy" trope, but this time it doesn't ruin the book by becoming the focus.
- Also, I hate Yumiko. 😂 I don't think I have hated a character so much since Umbridge (for all my fellow HP fans).
I honestly don't know where to start with this book. There's so much going on and I loved it all. There's action and adventure, character growth and so much more.
I have waited to read this until I had time to read all 3 books in a row. I have been hyping this up in my head and honestly, it lives up to the hype and then some. Once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. I found myself thinking about it constantly and even not sleeping so I could read it.
I haven't been so invested in a character in a long time. Kat is seriously bad @$$ and I love her. I love seeing her growth over the years. Everything she has been through and over come makes her even more lovable. I can't wait to read the rest of the series to see if she gets the justice she deserves.
January 2, 2023
I'm reviewing a Merry Life by @author_sarah_branson ! It is the first book in a humorous science fiction series called Pirates of New Earth, which the third book of it came out November 18, 2022!
When I say I have found a new favorite author, I actually mean it! This author has amazing writing, the world building in her book is flawless, and the female main character is badass, strong and tough as nails!
You'll say, new favorite author, tough fmc, amazing world building, why 4 stars? I'll tell you! The female lead is everything I want from a book, the male lead is everything I don't want in a book!
So he gets one star ducked, he was not supportive, and his presence made mission doing impossible, and he gave me f-boy vibes.
But, the pace of this book was great, the story was absolutely compelling! And I am more than excited to read the rest of the series within the next few days!
I'd never heard of Sarah Branson before, it's a pleasure to hear of her this way! 💗
Thank you to her, her publishers and the wonderful team of @katieandbreypa for providing me with a copy of this book for reviewing!
When I say I have found a new favorite author, I actually mean it! This author has amazing writing, the world building in her book is flawless, and the female main character is badass, strong and tough as nails!
You'll say, new favorite author, tough fmc, amazing world building, why 4 stars? I'll tell you! The female lead is everything I want from a book, the male lead is everything I don't want in a book!
So he gets one star ducked, he was not supportive, and his presence made mission doing impossible, and he gave me f-boy vibes.
But, the pace of this book was great, the story was absolutely compelling! And I am more than excited to read the rest of the series within the next few days!
I'd never heard of Sarah Branson before, it's a pleasure to hear of her this way! 💗
Thank you to her, her publishers and the wonderful team of @katieandbreypa for providing me with a copy of this book for reviewing!
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