As a pirate fantasy author myself, I have a profound love for the sea and the summer winds that these stories encapsulate. Growing up on the east coast, my favorite summers were spent on the Jersey Shore, digging for buried treasure on the beach, or searching for mermaids beneath the waves. These books capture in their pages the magic, heart, and mystery I associate with the sea. I believe fantasy worlds that tell the truth of the human experience are the most impactful, and strive to emulate that in my own work, as well as the books I read.
I wrote...
Daughter of the Deep
By
Lina C. Amarego
What is my book about?
A wedding to end a war. It’s been four years since the blood feud between the Branwens and Mathonwys started. Four years of sunken ships and loved ones lost, four years of wounds both seen and unseen. Keira Branwen is no stranger to duty. As the first mate of a legendary pirate ship, blessed by the sea-god Lyr, and heir apparent to her clan, she would sail to the Otherworld and back to keep her family safe. But when the Council threatens banishment for her people, Keira is faced with a choice; she must either marry her father’s alleged killer, the sea-snake Ronan Mathonwy, or curse her family to the deep.
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The Books I Picked & Why
The Saltwater Heir
By
Cassidy Clarke
Why this book?
This book has all my favorite tropes; sibling banter, friends to lovers, and elemental magic. But best of all, it’s set in the beach-side kingdom of Atlas, and it instantly transports readers. It made me cry several times, and I can’t wait for the sequel! Best of all, Clarke is an independent author with a unique voice and gorgeous prose that has a visceral effect.
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On These Black Sands
By
Vanessa Rasanen
Why this book?
This pirate tale set on the high seas has a bit of everything. The main character is both engaging and multidimensional and is a joy to follow through the book. The sharp, snarky commentary and political intrigue add for tons of twists and turns. But the best parts are the morally grey love interest and fae magic.
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The Maiden Ship: Book 1 of 3
By
Micheline Ryckman
Why this book?
This self-published beauty is the perfect soft, sweet pirate read to warm anyone’s heart. The main romance is to die for, and the descriptions within feel almost painted. Ryckman is a well-paced storyteller, and this debut novel from her reads almost like a fairytale. But best of all, it features plenty of piratey goodness and tons of adventure.
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Daughter of the Pirate King
By
Tricia Levenseller
Why this book?
This book cultivated my love for pirate books, and the fantasy elements are woven in expertly. The main character is both fierce and feminine, and is such a role model for readers of all ages. The plot had plenty of twists and turns, and the adventure never slowed. It grips the reader until the very end!
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Fable
By
Adrienne Young
Why this book?
This story is full of tons of heart and even more adventure. Another sea-faring tale, this book takes the reader on a ride to remember, all while making them feel. I absolutely fell in love with the cast of characters, and the writing itself is stunning. The sequel is just as captivating!