This intriguing book blurb would not allow me to leave this book alone. I don’t know about you, but the romantics of a sea journey have a pull for me. That and after “The Thief” by Megan Whalen Turner, I have a soft spot for deadly misfit characters. This book gives me the same sort of feeling as “The Thief”, though I must say it is a great deal cleaner.

ACTION: There is plenty of action in this dual-author book. Honestly, there is barely a breather between important battles/harrowing experiences. The authors achieved an action packed book that has little to no description of blood and death, though both are happening to and around the characters. They chose to focus more on moving the story along and character development than destruction.

ADVENTURE: As a true seafaring book, there is a great deal of geographically diverse exploration. Though the authors did not choose to go into in depth detail on the locales and cultures visited, you are given enough to feel the adventure and wonder of an unexpected journey. For those who are sensitive, there is an element of magic in this book. I found the use unique and very engaging, but if you have an aversion you have been warned.

ROMANCE: This story has the barest hint of romance. There are also vague mentions of unsavory things happening. As to the pirates in this book, you are left to imagine all the terrible things they can do yourself.

RELIGION: There really is no mention of religion of any kind in this book. Having read the author bios, I know that the women who wrote it are Christians. That is probably why this book is so clean. I would say that there are underlying Christian messages to be found as well. Unfortunately on that note I must stop, I would say more, but I don’t want to give spoilers.

FINAL THOUGHTS: This is the least violent/graphic pirate/seafaring book I have ever read. That is to its credit. Removing the unpleasantness of both foul language and unsavory realities, I was able to enjoy the more nuanced parts of the story. I especially enjoyed the removal of foul language. It was overt and rather hilarious. I also really enjoyed getting to know the wide array of characters, and each of their colorful personalities made the story even better. In a way, it was like watching a very well done play, unfolding one scene at a time. This is a refreshing take on the genre, and did I mention that this is just Book 1? There are already three more books in this series to enjoy! I can’t wait to get reading!