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Review: Sirens and Sea Captains - Realms of Lurin #1

Sirens and Sea Captains book cover on blue background

I'm grateful that I've had the opportunity to read Courtney Denelsbeck's books as they have made up for some of the fantasy books I didn't read in my childhood and youth 😄 If anyone else is like me, her stories are a great way to dip your toe into this vast genre. With Sirens and Sea Captains kicking off a new series, I get to combine my love of Regency tales with novellas that touch upon the fantastical.

If you're interested in reading more, the Realms of Lurin series is "a multi-author collection of standalone magical regency-inspired fantasy novellas that take place in the same world," with eight books releasing this year.

Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Book Synopsis

Siren attacks. A forced engagement. And the once-dignified lady made to live with pirates.

Lenora's heart rips to pieces as she finds herself the latest victim of Thomas McKraven's charms. The summertime ball, where she had hoped to announce their betrothal, is instead the pinnacle of her humiliation. But just when she thinks things can't get any worse, her father makes a shocking announcement—Lenora is to be married, not to Thomas or any other eligible suitor, but to a pirate

As Lenora tries to come to terms with her new fate, she is thrust into a world of danger and adventure on the high seas. Along with her loyal pet axolotl, she must survive amongst the rough crew, siren attacks, and the distant and unfriendly Captain Devonshire—her intended husband. But as she journeys further into the unknown, Lenora can't shake the feeling that there is something more waiting for her out in the vast ocean.

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

I truly enjoy Courtney Denelsbeck's ability to make animal companions come to life in such a fun and endearing way. With an axolotl to accompany Lenora Darlington as she faces her upcoming arranged marriage, readers get to see her world transform from the ballroom to the sea. Amid confusion and few answers, Lenora is forced to acclimate to her new life as the future wife of a pirate. I appreciate that she is gracious and prayerful when she encounters challenges, presenting us with a genuinely lovely heroine. While she has every opportunity to become angry at her circumstances, her reliance on her Maker keeps her grounded and discerning when confronted with a web of half-truths and outright lies.

This mashup of genres is a charming world where characters are respectful and abide by a code of honour despite the stigma of their professions. Combining epic battles, magical creatures, and found family, this novella packs a punch by exploring themes such as stereotypes, belonging, and grief through a Christian lens. If you're looking for a story filled with twists and turns that will have you wondering about the characters’ allegiance and loyalties, Sirens and Sea Captains will take you on a rollicking sea adventure with touches of the Regency.

Book Summary

  • Format of book: 📱
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • Recommendation: 👍
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