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The Vampire Pirate Saga #1
Sea of Darkness
Working with a supernatural enemy is Kelia's only hope of solving her father's murder. But her investigation puts her own life in danger.
The Society’s sole purpose is to protect the general population from vicious Sea Shadows, and Kelia’s their top Slayer. But when her father is murdered and her handler insists it’s suicide, she starts to question whether The Society really has her best interests at heart.
Now, to solve her father’s death, Kelia must work with an unexpected ally: Drew Knight, an infamous Sea Shadow and the most beautiful creature Kelia has ever set eyes upon. A Sea Shadow who, without intending to, just may show her who the real enemy is… and it’ll only cost her one unnamed favor to be collected at a future date.
But after her affiliation with Drew Knight is discovered, Kelia is forced to choose between what she’s known since the beginning of her existence… or a dark, terrifying truth that puts her life at risk.
Find out who dies and who survives in SEA OF DARKNESS, the first installment of The Vampire Pirate Saga, an exciting new urban fantasy romance readers of Sarah J Maas and Karen Marie Moning are sure to devour!
The Society’s sole purpose is to protect the general population from vicious Sea Shadows, and Kelia’s their top Slayer. But when her father is murdered and her handler insists it’s suicide, she starts to question whether The Society really has her best interests at heart.
Now, to solve her father’s death, Kelia must work with an unexpected ally: Drew Knight, an infamous Sea Shadow and the most beautiful creature Kelia has ever set eyes upon. A Sea Shadow who, without intending to, just may show her who the real enemy is… and it’ll only cost her one unnamed favor to be collected at a future date.
But after her affiliation with Drew Knight is discovered, Kelia is forced to choose between what she’s known since the beginning of her existence… or a dark, terrifying truth that puts her life at risk.
Find out who dies and who survives in SEA OF DARKNESS, the first installment of The Vampire Pirate Saga, an exciting new urban fantasy romance readers of Sarah J Maas and Karen Marie Moning are sure to devour!
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 13, 2018
About the author
Isadora Brown
93 books1,161 followersIsadora Brown loves all things dark, dangerous, and deadly. Things that go bump in the night and send shivers down backs are things she adores. She loves (and writes) sexy, forbidden romance, usually with some bite and a hint of magic. She is the author of The Somerset Series, The Dark Paradise Trilogy, The Stranger Trilogy, and The Neverland Trilogy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
October 6, 2024
This book is free on Amazon (Canada) today (10/06/2024). 🙂
✅ Mix of vampires and pirates
✅ Quick read
🆗 Pace
🆗 Plot
🆗❌ Main character
❌ Insta-lust / Insta-trust
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: whipping and mentions of suicide
Oh well, that was disappointing. My main issues here are the main character and the overall development of the plot.
Kelia Starling is a 17-year-old Slayer who is training at The Society—a group tasked with the elimination of the Sea Shadows (vampires) roaming the seas around them. After being sent on a very dangerous mission for which she was not ready, Kelia learns that not only is her father dead, but The Society is trying to pass it off as a suicide when it is obvious that it was not. Kelia starts to become suspicious and has to make a tentative alliance with Drew Knight, THE Sea Shadow that everyone fears and that The Society has been trying to capture for years now.
Overall, the characters lacked depth, Drew was not bad, but he was not good either, and he didn't feel like a many-centuries-year-old vampire to me. The world-building was very interesting, and I loved the mix of vampires and pirates. Sadly, the plot had too many holes and inconsistencies for me to enjoy it. Things happened just because it was convenient for Kelia’s quest, but there was no logical explanation. I still have so many questions about the plot, things that just make no sense.
- Why is Drew helping Kelia?
- How come The Society never caught him if his boat was just parked on the other side of the island?
- Why wasn't Drew more prudent when meeting with Kelia, since he is a freaking centuries-old vampire?
Add to that the fact that Kelia made stupid decisions daily, yet she never really got caught until the end, and it got frustrating. As an example, she sneaked on a boat and got caught by her handler, but she managed to lie her way out of it and he sent her to her bedroom for the night since it was after curfew. Kelia knew she got lucky and that her handler was suspicious of her, and of course, she decided to sneak out again the minute she left his office, not taking the time to think about the fact that he might have her followed, or that he might check on her later during the evening to make sure she was indeed in her bedroom. That was so dumb!
Even when she got caught and got in really big trouble, she had a way to escape and she decided to remain imprisoned because she had to stay near the Society so she could learn the truth about her father's death. They were clearly trying to kill her, she got 2 chances of escaping, and still, on the brink of death, she argued that she had to stay there. What was she expecting to discover from the confines of the dungeons?! And was the truth about her father really more important than her freaking life?! At that point, I don't call it driven and determined anymore, that's just stupidity and foolish obsession.
There is also too much foreshadowing or obvious clues in the writing, so the revelations end up being not surprising at all, and even worse, I found Kelia to be rather stupid for not figuring things out earlier because it was so obvious for the readers.
The Society is obviously lying to Kelia (at least it is made very obvious for the readers from the start), and even when she is faced with their lies and the fact that they are misleading her and hiding things from her, she refuses to consider that if they lied about her father’s death, they won’t mind lying about other matters, such as the nature and behavior of Sea Shadows. That is until she starts spending time with Drew and insta-lust and insta-trust develop. Then she suddenly doubts everything the Society has been telling her because Drew told her his version, and she just has this feeling that he is trustworthy. 🙄🙄🙄
Kelia wants to be taken seriously, and “as a threat”, but she feels immature and petulant most of the time. She is a 17 years old teenager still in training, and she admitted herself that she was not the best slayer there was, yet she is frustrated when she is not taken seriously by the many-centuries-year-old vampire. What is she expecting? For him to be cowered by her and her 17-year-old teen attitude, her overconfidence, and her belief that she has a right to know everything that is happening around her now that her father is dead? She’s also been told her whole life that she needed to learn to control her emotions, and she still gets annoyed when people tell her that her emotions show on her face. On the other hand, she also mentioned so many times how she needed to control her facial expressions… It just became annoying.
Kelia’s inner monologues got repetitive and boring very quickly too, and I almost skimmed a few pages because of it. She even had those monologues during the fight scenes sometimes. 🙄
Sadly, this one was not for me. The ideas are good, and the basic plot has potential, but the writing needs improvement and the plot needs to be more defined and consistent. Kelia also felt too juvenile for me to connect with her, and the insta-lust/insta-trust killed any chance of me enjoying her relationship with Drew.
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✅ Mix of vampires and pirates
✅ Quick read
🆗 Pace
🆗 Plot
🆗❌ Main character
❌ Insta-lust / Insta-trust
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: whipping and mentions of suicide
Oh well, that was disappointing. My main issues here are the main character and the overall development of the plot.
Kelia Starling is a 17-year-old Slayer who is training at The Society—a group tasked with the elimination of the Sea Shadows (vampires) roaming the seas around them. After being sent on a very dangerous mission for which she was not ready, Kelia learns that not only is her father dead, but The Society is trying to pass it off as a suicide when it is obvious that it was not. Kelia starts to become suspicious and has to make a tentative alliance with Drew Knight, THE Sea Shadow that everyone fears and that The Society has been trying to capture for years now.
Overall, the characters lacked depth, Drew was not bad, but he was not good either, and he didn't feel like a many-centuries-year-old vampire to me. The world-building was very interesting, and I loved the mix of vampires and pirates. Sadly, the plot had too many holes and inconsistencies for me to enjoy it. Things happened just because it was convenient for Kelia’s quest, but there was no logical explanation. I still have so many questions about the plot, things that just make no sense.
- Why is Drew helping Kelia?
- How come The Society never caught him if his boat was just parked on the other side of the island?
- Why wasn't Drew more prudent when meeting with Kelia, since he is a freaking centuries-old vampire?
Add to that the fact that Kelia made stupid decisions daily, yet she never really got caught until the end, and it got frustrating. As an example, she sneaked on a boat and got caught by her handler, but she managed to lie her way out of it and he sent her to her bedroom for the night since it was after curfew. Kelia knew she got lucky and that her handler was suspicious of her, and of course, she decided to sneak out again the minute she left his office, not taking the time to think about the fact that he might have her followed, or that he might check on her later during the evening to make sure she was indeed in her bedroom. That was so dumb!
Even when she got caught and got in really big trouble, she had a way to escape and she decided to remain imprisoned because she had to stay near the Society so she could learn the truth about her father's death. They were clearly trying to kill her, she got 2 chances of escaping, and still, on the brink of death, she argued that she had to stay there. What was she expecting to discover from the confines of the dungeons?! And was the truth about her father really more important than her freaking life?! At that point, I don't call it driven and determined anymore, that's just stupidity and foolish obsession.
There is also too much foreshadowing or obvious clues in the writing, so the revelations end up being not surprising at all, and even worse, I found Kelia to be rather stupid for not figuring things out earlier because it was so obvious for the readers.
The Society is obviously lying to Kelia (at least it is made very obvious for the readers from the start), and even when she is faced with their lies and the fact that they are misleading her and hiding things from her, she refuses to consider that if they lied about her father’s death, they won’t mind lying about other matters, such as the nature and behavior of Sea Shadows. That is until she starts spending time with Drew and insta-lust and insta-trust develop. Then she suddenly doubts everything the Society has been telling her because Drew told her his version, and she just has this feeling that he is trustworthy. 🙄🙄🙄
Kelia wants to be taken seriously, and “as a threat”, but she feels immature and petulant most of the time. She is a 17 years old teenager still in training, and she admitted herself that she was not the best slayer there was, yet she is frustrated when she is not taken seriously by the many-centuries-year-old vampire. What is she expecting? For him to be cowered by her and her 17-year-old teen attitude, her overconfidence, and her belief that she has a right to know everything that is happening around her now that her father is dead? She’s also been told her whole life that she needed to learn to control her emotions, and she still gets annoyed when people tell her that her emotions show on her face. On the other hand, she also mentioned so many times how she needed to control her facial expressions… It just became annoying.
Kelia’s inner monologues got repetitive and boring very quickly too, and I almost skimmed a few pages because of it. She even had those monologues during the fight scenes sometimes. 🙄
Sadly, this one was not for me. The ideas are good, and the basic plot has potential, but the writing needs improvement and the plot needs to be more defined and consistent. Kelia also felt too juvenile for me to connect with her, and the insta-lust/insta-trust killed any chance of me enjoying her relationship with Drew.
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November 11, 2018
The plot is alright, but nothing special. The writing is... not great. Lots of tell instead of show. Constant internal monologues, even during action scenes, much of it repetitive information. And the budding romance between an undead centennial and an orphan teenager is just a bit icky to contemplate.
August 22, 2022
4 stars - English Ebook
Quote: " things, such as feelings.” He had not just implied her father was to blame for her mother’s death, had he? The man certainly had more tact than that.-
Quote: First he asked if maybe her father was sick, then he’d implied suicide. It was as if he was making this up as he went along. And the meeting, Kelia thought, forcing her face to be as blank as she could make it. How do you account for him asking to meet with me? -
I really enjoyed this book. It had a bit of everything and there was a big twist at the end that I didn’t see coming.
I also really liked that this wasn’t an instand love story. There was plenty of action and lovable characters.
The only downside is this book does end on a cliffhanger! Rrrrr
Quote: " things, such as feelings.” He had not just implied her father was to blame for her mother’s death, had he? The man certainly had more tact than that.-
Quote: First he asked if maybe her father was sick, then he’d implied suicide. It was as if he was making this up as he went along. And the meeting, Kelia thought, forcing her face to be as blank as she could make it. How do you account for him asking to meet with me? -
I really enjoyed this book. It had a bit of everything and there was a big twist at the end that I didn’t see coming.
I also really liked that this wasn’t an instand love story. There was plenty of action and lovable characters.
The only downside is this book does end on a cliffhanger! Rrrrr
May 9, 2018
Intriguing, sexy, emotional, thrilling, dangerous, action packed adventure filled with half truths, dark secrets, betrayal and forbidden attraction. (my favorite)
Kelia Starling has grown up and trained for a life that is not entirely what it may seem (can she blindly trust what she is told?) Drew Knight by all accounts of her education growing up is the enemy, yet he is the only one helping her find the truth about her father?? Loved every heart pounding twist and turn in this exciting journey.
Kelia Starling has grown up and trained for a life that is not entirely what it may seem (can she blindly trust what she is told?) Drew Knight by all accounts of her education growing up is the enemy, yet he is the only one helping her find the truth about her father?? Loved every heart pounding twist and turn in this exciting journey.
September 5, 2020
A blend of dystopian and fantasy that delivered in some ways and not in others
It was nice to see the blend of dystopian and fantasy. The book includes vampires and Slayers but also organisations and the possible friendship and romance of people across these worlds. The plot was interesting at the start an had a good starting point. Keila is investigating the death of her father, who the Society has put down to suicide, but she doesn't believe it. A bit cliche, but a good starting point.
She enlists the help of a sea shadow, a vampire pirate, and her enemy basically, to help. Another bit that's a bit cliche but we'll go with it.
Here is where I felt like the general plot lacked. There wasn't a lot of mystery, and a lot of show not tell. I felt like a lot was revealed towards the start of the book, which drew me in, but not a lot revealed throughout Keila's investigations. A lot of small points that happen, that just needs explanations for. Like where was Drew half the time, what he actually does, how did he break into Keila's cell, what are his abilities as a vampire, etc.
Also, the whole 'pirate' vampire thing is horseshit. They're just vampires who live on boats. After reading Daughter of the Pirate King - A kalózkirály lánya, I know what pirates are supposed to be like, and this one disappointed.
→3.25 stars
It was nice to see the blend of dystopian and fantasy. The book includes vampires and Slayers but also organisations and the possible friendship and romance of people across these worlds. The plot was interesting at the start an had a good starting point. Keila is investigating the death of her father, who the Society has put down to suicide, but she doesn't believe it. A bit cliche, but a good starting point.
She enlists the help of a sea shadow, a vampire pirate, and her enemy basically, to help. Another bit that's a bit cliche but we'll go with it.
Here is where I felt like the general plot lacked. There wasn't a lot of mystery, and a lot of show not tell. I felt like a lot was revealed towards the start of the book, which drew me in, but not a lot revealed throughout Keila's investigations. A lot of small points that happen, that just needs explanations for. Like where was Drew half the time, what he actually does, how did he break into Keila's cell, what are his abilities as a vampire, etc.
Also, the whole 'pirate' vampire thing is horseshit. They're just vampires who live on boats. After reading Daughter of the Pirate King - A kalózkirály lánya, I know what pirates are supposed to be like, and this one disappointed.
→3.25 stars
September 13, 2021
Look at me, writing a review as I finish a book instead of weeks or months later!
Well, it's not a good one. I was excited because I've read some of Rebecca Hamilton's books before, and they were so much fun! However, this book was... not.
Kelia is a Slayer. She kills Vampire Pirates (this should not be something that is taken so seriously, but there is zero humor in this book). That's her job. Then her father is murdered, she's told it's suicide, and she goes on a quest for the truth, meeting Drew, a Vampire Pirate in the process.
Okay, so first off, Kelia reads like she's about 15 years old, maturity-wise. Which makes her budding romance with Drew just seem wrong. He reads like he's probably about 50 in maturity, so it's a bit of an awkward age gap, whether that's true or not (I can't remember. I didn't care enough to remember how old they actually are. She is probably 18, but still).
Plus, Kelia is so dumb it's a wonder she gets anything done. She's told about twelve times in the first half that she's an idiot, and then in the second half, she's told an equal amount of times that she's brilliant. What? No, she's still stupid, she's just in lurve.
Then, there's the fact that the plot doesn't make sense. She's going to stay behind, after being caught, because she can figure out her daddy's death better? No! She can't! She doesn't think she can help more free? Goodness, Kelia, use your brain! I know it's a bit cobwebby up there, but you should at least be able to think that through. And Drew, how DARE you let her do that? Use logic and make her realize she's being stupid. Because she always is and you usually tell her right away.
Anyway, I could keep ranting about everything (like how did Emma think they were "friends too" when they only saw each other like twice and never had a real conversation, but I digress), but I'll stop, only because I want to eat my lunch.
Well, it's not a good one. I was excited because I've read some of Rebecca Hamilton's books before, and they were so much fun! However, this book was... not.
Kelia is a Slayer. She kills Vampire Pirates (this should not be something that is taken so seriously, but there is zero humor in this book). That's her job. Then her father is murdered, she's told it's suicide, and she goes on a quest for the truth, meeting Drew, a Vampire Pirate in the process.
Okay, so first off, Kelia reads like she's about 15 years old, maturity-wise. Which makes her budding romance with Drew just seem wrong. He reads like he's probably about 50 in maturity, so it's a bit of an awkward age gap, whether that's true or not (I can't remember. I didn't care enough to remember how old they actually are. She is probably 18, but still).
Plus, Kelia is so dumb it's a wonder she gets anything done. She's told about twelve times in the first half that she's an idiot, and then in the second half, she's told an equal amount of times that she's brilliant. What? No, she's still stupid, she's just in lurve.
Then, there's the fact that the plot doesn't make sense. She's going to stay behind, after being caught, because she can figure out her daddy's death better? No! She can't! She doesn't think she can help more free? Goodness, Kelia, use your brain! I know it's a bit cobwebby up there, but you should at least be able to think that through. And Drew, how DARE you let her do that? Use logic and make her realize she's being stupid. Because she always is and you usually tell her right away.
Anyway, I could keep ranting about everything (like how did Emma think they were "friends too" when they only saw each other like twice and never had a real conversation, but I digress), but I'll stop, only because I want to eat my lunch.
May 11, 2018
Sea of Darkness - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Unknown to her, Kelia Darling has a dark family secret that's about to change her life forever, in this epic fantasy adventure from Isadora Brown (aka Heather Myers).
Kelia's father Gregory, a scientist for the East India Company has created Sea Shadows and Infants - mutant humans, (mainly pirates or criminals) - to act as slaves for the ruling Shadow Society, in Port George in the Caribbean. Kelia is a trainee Sea Slayer/sword fighter, one of an elite group whose mission is to capture or kill Sea Shadow pirates and in this tale, she must capture an Infant. Unknown to Kelia, her handler Ashton Rycroft is part of the corruption and has his own reasons for mentoring Kelia. When she meets Drew Knight an infamous Sea Shadow pirate Kelia is drawn to him, despite his ostensibly being a sworn enemy. How will Kelia decide the right path when all around her is not what it seems and perhaps nobody can be trusted?
What happens to Kelia's father Gregory? What is she told about this event? How does Kelia react after she sees her father for the last time?
Who is Christopher Beckett and what does he tell her to do? Where does Kelia meet Emma and where do they go next?
What does Drew give Kelia to take to Christopher? What really happened to Delia's father? What does Kelia overhear about a ship's voyage?
Where is the ship headed? Why is Kelia horrified by what she sees during the voyage? How does Drew save Kelia?
This romantic, all-action thriller will keep the eager reader gripped to the very end. Grab your copy now and tell all your friends!
Unknown to her, Kelia Darling has a dark family secret that's about to change her life forever, in this epic fantasy adventure from Isadora Brown (aka Heather Myers).
Kelia's father Gregory, a scientist for the East India Company has created Sea Shadows and Infants - mutant humans, (mainly pirates or criminals) - to act as slaves for the ruling Shadow Society, in Port George in the Caribbean. Kelia is a trainee Sea Slayer/sword fighter, one of an elite group whose mission is to capture or kill Sea Shadow pirates and in this tale, she must capture an Infant. Unknown to Kelia, her handler Ashton Rycroft is part of the corruption and has his own reasons for mentoring Kelia. When she meets Drew Knight an infamous Sea Shadow pirate Kelia is drawn to him, despite his ostensibly being a sworn enemy. How will Kelia decide the right path when all around her is not what it seems and perhaps nobody can be trusted?
What happens to Kelia's father Gregory? What is she told about this event? How does Kelia react after she sees her father for the last time?
Who is Christopher Beckett and what does he tell her to do? Where does Kelia meet Emma and where do they go next?
What does Drew give Kelia to take to Christopher? What really happened to Delia's father? What does Kelia overhear about a ship's voyage?
Where is the ship headed? Why is Kelia horrified by what she sees during the voyage? How does Drew save Kelia?
This romantic, all-action thriller will keep the eager reader gripped to the very end. Grab your copy now and tell all your friends!
July 24, 2020
Kelia Starling is a Shadow in training in The Society, an organization responsible for the extermination of Sea Shadows (vampires). Sea of Darkness opens with Kelia fighting an Infant (a newly turned vampire) to arrest him, which is highly unusual from the protocol of exterminating Shadows. If her being sent to a suicide mission wasn't suspicious enough, The Society tries to fabricate her father's murder as a suicide. Desperate for answers, Kelia seeks out the help of Drew Knight, an elusive and mysterious Sea Shadow. The more Kelia works with Drew, and the more light is shed upon the misleadings she had been taught and what The Society is.
Vampire-pirates, murder mystery and a feisty protagonist who slays vampires - these promises were enough to make me excited for this book. Unfortunately, the book did not live up to its promises. The world-building was fascinating, but the plot had too many holes and inconsistencies and felt mediocre at best. The characters lacked any depth and development, so most of their actions and decisions felt irrational. I do not feel like getting into each of the character's details; however, Kelia's internal monologue is tiringly long, repetitive and made me skim through most of it. I will certainly not be picking up the next book in the series.
Vampire-pirates, murder mystery and a feisty protagonist who slays vampires - these promises were enough to make me excited for this book. Unfortunately, the book did not live up to its promises. The world-building was fascinating, but the plot had too many holes and inconsistencies and felt mediocre at best. The characters lacked any depth and development, so most of their actions and decisions felt irrational. I do not feel like getting into each of the character's details; however, Kelia's internal monologue is tiringly long, repetitive and made me skim through most of it. I will certainly not be picking up the next book in the series.
May 21, 2018
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars!
I’ve mixed feelings about this book! It wasn’t bad but it wasn’t great either. I’ve never read a book that has vampire pirates so I really wanted to give this a shot. It has an interesting plot, but the problem was the story didn’t excite me that much. Nevertheless, it was an enjoyable read. Keira Starling is a top slayer who hunts sea shadows aka vampires. When her father dies mysteriously she strongly believes that his death is not a suicide but no one believes her, so, in order to find the answers, she makes a deal with the enemy which is totally against the Society’s rules. During her search, when shocking secrets are revealed, Lera doesn’t know whom to trust and she starts to realize everything they had known were actually lies. I loved the main protagonist Keira. She’s clever, stubborn, determined and also a bit short tempered. She’s a pretty tough cookie who wouldn’t break even after going through a lot of abuse. Drew Knight is a very intriguing and mysterious character. He’s a dark, handsome, and deadly vampire who harbors many secrets. He’s an old vampire and no one can resist his allure especially woman. When Keira meets Drew for the first time, she could feel the pull but she tries very hard to resist him. She doesn’t trust him, but he’s the only one who can help find her father’s murderer. With each encounter, Keira begins to trust Drew and she’s surprised to find that he’s really not what she had heard about him. The romance between Keira and Drew is definitely a slow burn but I didn’t feel that spark. I wish they had more interactions. The supporting characters aren’t fleshed out enough. So I didn’t cared much about them. The writing was good and the world building was perfect for the story. Overall, I really liked it but I don’t love it.
I’ve mixed feelings about this book! It wasn’t bad but it wasn’t great either. I’ve never read a book that has vampire pirates so I really wanted to give this a shot. It has an interesting plot, but the problem was the story didn’t excite me that much. Nevertheless, it was an enjoyable read. Keira Starling is a top slayer who hunts sea shadows aka vampires. When her father dies mysteriously she strongly believes that his death is not a suicide but no one believes her, so, in order to find the answers, she makes a deal with the enemy which is totally against the Society’s rules. During her search, when shocking secrets are revealed, Lera doesn’t know whom to trust and she starts to realize everything they had known were actually lies. I loved the main protagonist Keira. She’s clever, stubborn, determined and also a bit short tempered. She’s a pretty tough cookie who wouldn’t break even after going through a lot of abuse. Drew Knight is a very intriguing and mysterious character. He’s a dark, handsome, and deadly vampire who harbors many secrets. He’s an old vampire and no one can resist his allure especially woman. When Keira meets Drew for the first time, she could feel the pull but she tries very hard to resist him. She doesn’t trust him, but he’s the only one who can help find her father’s murderer. With each encounter, Keira begins to trust Drew and she’s surprised to find that he’s really not what she had heard about him. The romance between Keira and Drew is definitely a slow burn but I didn’t feel that spark. I wish they had more interactions. The supporting characters aren’t fleshed out enough. So I didn’t cared much about them. The writing was good and the world building was perfect for the story. Overall, I really liked it but I don’t love it.
September 4, 2018
I think readers ages 14 and up would enjoy this one.
Kelia is the main character. She is training to be a slayer. Slayers did the world of Sea Shadows. Kelia has been taught that Sea Shadows are unfeeling, uncaring, unintelligent beasts who only have a thirst for blood. Keila's dad used to be a Slayer too, until one killed her mom, now her dad helps run the place. Sea Shadows are vampires who sail the waters because they burst into flames when their feet touch land, that's what Kelia has been taught. Kelia comes back from a dangerous mission one night and her dad is acting odd, he asks her to meet with him alone because he has something he needs to tell her. Kelia goes to meet him, only he isn't there, when she goes back to her room, she's told her father had committed suicide. Kelia refuses to believe it and she starts to unravel the lies.
This book gives a little different take on vampires. Kelia is so stubborn, she is stupid, I'm not sure if that's good or bad.
I'm not sure what it says about me, but the character that supposed to be the biggest and baddest, Free who is an older Sea Shadow, is my absolute favorite character! This book has a little is everything, so I'm not sure what more anyone can ask for. There is action, adventure, characters to love, characters to hate, characters to love to hate. The author weaves a story with a compelling plot that makes the reader turn the page just to see what happen next. The book is well written, and well edited.
RECOMMENDED
Kelia is the main character. She is training to be a slayer. Slayers did the world of Sea Shadows. Kelia has been taught that Sea Shadows are unfeeling, uncaring, unintelligent beasts who only have a thirst for blood. Keila's dad used to be a Slayer too, until one killed her mom, now her dad helps run the place. Sea Shadows are vampires who sail the waters because they burst into flames when their feet touch land, that's what Kelia has been taught. Kelia comes back from a dangerous mission one night and her dad is acting odd, he asks her to meet with him alone because he has something he needs to tell her. Kelia goes to meet him, only he isn't there, when she goes back to her room, she's told her father had committed suicide. Kelia refuses to believe it and she starts to unravel the lies.
This book gives a little different take on vampires. Kelia is so stubborn, she is stupid, I'm not sure if that's good or bad.
I'm not sure what it says about me, but the character that supposed to be the biggest and baddest, Free who is an older Sea Shadow, is my absolute favorite character! This book has a little is everything, so I'm not sure what more anyone can ask for. There is action, adventure, characters to love, characters to hate, characters to love to hate. The author weaves a story with a compelling plot that makes the reader turn the page just to see what happen next. The book is well written, and well edited.
RECOMMENDED
April 20, 2018
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book, but I have to admit that I liked it. This was a unique twist on vampires, and I always like something new. I enjoyed how well-written the book was, how intriguing the story line was to draw me in, and I really enjoyed the characters. One thing I will admit was that it did take me a little bit to get into the story. Once I did, it was a smooth ride, and I enjoyed myself to the end. If you like paranormal books with action, suspense, lies, intrigue, romance, and vampire, or even a couple of these, give this one a try! Recommend! I was provided the e-book which I reviewed voluntarily.
August 1, 2018
Kelia is a sea slayer and as always been told sea shadows all need to be killed. When her father is murder she as her work cut and and her maybe her perception changed in order to find out the truth she as to work with free knight the world's most beautiful sea shadow creature. What will she do go with what she's always been told and always feared or follow the truth to solve her father's murder. I loved this book it was really well written the characters are great story was brilliant definitely recommend this one ladies 😊
August 7, 2018
An action packed page turner of pirates/vampires. What more could you ask for?
Great characters, well written.
Kelia grows up in a Society as a Slayer, when she returns from a mission her dad is awaiting her arrival acting strangely, and is supposed to meet up with her later unfortunately he dies and she is investigating realizing the world she grew up in is full of half truths when Drew Knight sparks her interest..
So goood. I NEED more..
Great characters, well written.
Kelia grows up in a Society as a Slayer, when she returns from a mission her dad is awaiting her arrival acting strangely, and is supposed to meet up with her later unfortunately he dies and she is investigating realizing the world she grew up in is full of half truths when Drew Knight sparks her interest..
So goood. I NEED more..
September 2, 2018
Wow, when I started reading this book I wasn't sure if I would like this story because this is the first book I have read by this author, but wow she has blown me away with this story and I can't wait to read more of her books especially the next book in this series because I can't wait to find out what happens with Kelia and The Society will she find out what happened to her dad and also what is going to happen with Drew, will they get together?
September 3, 2018
This book is so unique. Kelia is a Sea Shadow slayer aka vampires of the sea. when her father dies she learns of secrets that will make her rethink what she is doing is right. While trying to find out the truth of the secrets she starts a journey of all journeys. That ending was really interesting and I can't wait to read book 2
January 8, 2018
Really enjoyable read, with great characters and a lot of intrigue! Also, a very appealing romantic lead and plenty of chemistry!
My only dislike was that there was a fair bit of repetitive description (people are sure breathing through their nose a lot in this one).
My only dislike was that there was a fair bit of repetitive description (people are sure breathing through their nose a lot in this one).
July 28, 2018
This one was an intriguing read with not ordinary intake and vampires and slayers.
This book was surprisingly well written and made sure to keep the reader interested. Sometimes it felt like rushed and well some events were something that I found unbelievable or too shocking...
This book was surprisingly well written and made sure to keep the reader interested. Sometimes it felt like rushed and well some events were something that I found unbelievable or too shocking...
May 29, 2018
Just not for me. The MC seems a lot younger than I think she is suppose to be. I was hoping for a strong independent kick butt fighter and I just don’t think she was.
July 31, 2018
What an imaginative world! Pirate Vampires, yes please! I love Kelia, Drew and the others and can't wait to see what secrets are revealed! Definitely give this book a try!
August 26, 2018
This book is really good. It is a bit different then what I read but I love love this book. I enjoy how the vampire monster has his human side still. Would def recommend this
August 6, 2018
I’m a huge reader of the urban fantasy/paranormal genre. This is a good start to a new series. It wasn’t perfect and it has it’s issues, but it’s a good solid base that makes me want them to hurry the release of the second book, slated for August.
The good, the world building and the characters. I like Kelia, even though she has more growing up to do, in some ways, she’s beyond her years and others she is lacking. I loved Drew, he’s a strong character – and as Kelia learns, not the enemy she has been taught all her life to believe.
The bad – there was a lot of repetitive stuff going on. That happened more than a couple times, and mostly because I enjoyed the story as much as I did, I could overlook it. There also wasn’t much action, except in the first part of the book, so some of it got stiff and drawn out. And my last issue, is it’s billed as a romance, and although the groundwork was being laid in this first book, there isn’t much to speak of - but I hope that the authors have fixed it for the second book. Reviewed by Cyrene
The good, the world building and the characters. I like Kelia, even though she has more growing up to do, in some ways, she’s beyond her years and others she is lacking. I loved Drew, he’s a strong character – and as Kelia learns, not the enemy she has been taught all her life to believe.
The bad – there was a lot of repetitive stuff going on. That happened more than a couple times, and mostly because I enjoyed the story as much as I did, I could overlook it. There also wasn’t much action, except in the first part of the book, so some of it got stiff and drawn out. And my last issue, is it’s billed as a romance, and although the groundwork was being laid in this first book, there isn’t much to speak of - but I hope that the authors have fixed it for the second book. Reviewed by Cyrene
September 14, 2018
I love this book. This book is full of adventure. I could not put it down. An unexpected partnership changes everything. Slayer Kelia Starling has grown up being told that Sea Shadows are vicious creatures that need to be killed. No exceptions. But when her father is murdered and her handler insists it’s suicide, she starts to question whether The Society really has her best interests at heart. Kelia must join forces with Drew Knight, an infamous Sea Shadow. After her affiliation with Drew Knight is discovered, Kelia is forced to choose between what she’s been taught…or a dark, terrifying truth that puts her life at risk. I cannot wait to read book 2.
September 13, 2019
A very enjoyable read.
Sea of darkness by Isadora Brown.
A very enjoyable read with some great characters. I liked Kelia. Emma and Drew although they were vampires I did like them for how they treated Kelia. Didn't like Rycroft at all. Looking forward to the next book. 4*.
Sea of darkness by Isadora Brown.
A very enjoyable read with some great characters. I liked Kelia. Emma and Drew although they were vampires I did like them for how they treated Kelia. Didn't like Rycroft at all. Looking forward to the next book. 4*.
Want to read
March 5, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/5/2019)! 🎁
October 13, 2018
Sea of Darkness, Isadora Brown's 1st book in The Vampire Pirate Saga series, brings us a whole new world away from the classic vampire scene. Vampires, known as Sea Shadows, battle for their lives against Slayers, those chosen by The Society to keep the world safe for humans. But The Society has secrets. All is not as it seems. What is the real truth? Who can you truly trust? The storyline is fast-paced and unique, filled with adventure, intrigue, betrayal and danger. The characters are endearing and well developed. I look forward to reading more!
May 10, 2018
This was such an amazing book to start a series! Who could resist some pirates, especially vampire like pirates. Sea Shadows are like vampires. They also seem to blend in with the shadows as they move. The only place they can survive when the sun is up is on the sea. Kelia has trained all her life to slay them. The night she catches her first infant sea shadow, her father asks her to meet him regarding things he should’ve told her. Unfortunately, before she makes it to the meeting, he is found murdered. Of course, her handler insists it is suicide. Things just don’t add up. Kelia begins digging on her own and is devastated at what she finds. There are so many twists and turns. I can’t wait for the next book. My favorite character was the sea shadow of all sea shadows, Drew Knight. He’s supposed to be the most badassery one of them all. Untouchable. Kelia decides to hunt him and ask questions. Things aren’t what they seem. Now she’s left wondering if her whole life has been a lie. I love how it was set way back in days you can just picture pirates. There’s a real steampunk feel to it. The only thing I didn’t like was, I felt like there should’ve been more answers at the end, but I think it’s just me being a spoiled brat because I want the next book and I want it now! Lol. I really like both these authors. And I have to admit, I don’t read contemporary romance but when I do, it’s Isadora’s books. She is so talented at writing multi-genres. Check out her other work. I can’t wait to see what these ladies have in store for us next.
Merged review:
This was such an amazing book to start a series! Who could resist some pirates, especially vampire like pirates. Sea Shadows are like vampires. They also seem to blend in with the shadows as they move. The only place they can survive when the sun is up is on the sea. Kelia has trained all her life to slay them. The night she catches her first infant sea shadow, her father asks her to meet him regarding things he should’ve told her. Unfortunately, before she makes it to the meeting, he is found murdered. Of course, her handler insists it is suicide. Things just don’t add up. Kelia begins digging on her own and is devastated at what she finds. There are so many twists and turns. I can’t wait for the next book. My favorite character was the sea shadow of all sea shadows, Drew Knight. He’s supposed to be the most badassery one of them all. Untouchable. Kelia decides to hunt him and ask questions. Things aren’t what they seem. Now she’s left wondering if her whole life has been a lie. I love how it was set way back in days you can just picture pirates. There’s a real steampunk feel to it. The only thing I didn’t like was, I felt like there should’ve been more answers at the end, but I think it’s just me being a spoiled brat because I want the next book and I want it now! Lol. I really like both these authors. And I have to admit, I don’t read contemporary romance but when I do, it’s Isadora’s books. She is so talented at writing multi-genres. Check out her other work. I can’t wait to see what these ladies have in store for us next.
Merged review:
This was such an amazing book to start a series! Who could resist some pirates, especially vampire like pirates. Sea Shadows are like vampires. They also seem to blend in with the shadows as they move. The only place they can survive when the sun is up is on the sea. Kelia has trained all her life to slay them. The night she catches her first infant sea shadow, her father asks her to meet him regarding things he should’ve told her. Unfortunately, before she makes it to the meeting, he is found murdered. Of course, her handler insists it is suicide. Things just don’t add up. Kelia begins digging on her own and is devastated at what she finds. There are so many twists and turns. I can’t wait for the next book. My favorite character was the sea shadow of all sea shadows, Drew Knight. He’s supposed to be the most badassery one of them all. Untouchable. Kelia decides to hunt him and ask questions. Things aren’t what they seem. Now she’s left wondering if her whole life has been a lie. I love how it was set way back in days you can just picture pirates. There’s a real steampunk feel to it. The only thing I didn’t like was, I felt like there should’ve been more answers at the end, but I think it’s just me being a spoiled brat because I want the next book and I want it now! Lol. I really like both these authors. And I have to admit, I don’t read contemporary romance but when I do, it’s Isadora’s books. She is so talented at writing multi-genres. Check out her other work. I can’t wait to see what these ladies have in store for us next.
July 10, 2022
loved it
I loved reading this book. It was easy to follow and understand the setting. I was able to fall into the time period and the customs of the story. Can’t wait to start the second book.
I loved reading this book. It was easy to follow and understand the setting. I was able to fall into the time period and the customs of the story. Can’t wait to start the second book.
October 12, 2018
A unique story that has me wanting more! I loved the adventure, intrigue, and possible romance! Looking forward to reading the rest of the series!
March 22, 2018
I am a huge fan of Rebecca Hamilton's books and always look forward to read her new pieces. This one certainly did not disappoint.
Kelia was raised within the Society as a slayer, having only her father after her mother's death. Sent out on a dangerous mission, she manages to capture an Infant, recently turned Sea Shadow. Upon her return, her father acts strangely and asks for a meeting outside the Society fortress- but it never happens, and her father turns up dead, accused of suicide. Kelia, however, cannot be fooled so easily, discovering he was murdered, and is determined to solve the case on her own - even if for the success of her investigation, she must unite her forces with Drew Knight, the most infamous Sea Shadow and her mortal enemy.
I enjoyed the fantastic and turbulent ride, resembling the tales of pirates and sea monsters and the historical atmosphere breathing through the pages. Sea Shadows are vampire-like creatures with several unique constraints, which might or might not to hold true - it remains yet to be seen how tight the net of lies surrounding Kelia is in reality. Nevertheless, be sure that you need to look really beneath the surface, because no one is who he/she seems or claims to be, betrayal and trust issues are on a daily schedule, lies and half-truths are creating thick layers over the truths, and to learn what is real and what is made up, Kelia must dig really deep. I very much liked how the true personalities of the main characters slowly came to light as we got to know them better and better, and utterly enjoyed the exciting and adventurous plot. Kelia is a stubborn and infuriating heroine in a sense, but she has both the brains and the heart to truly win the reader over, despite some poor choices and bad decisions. We all make mistakes, right? She is that more human and easy to connect with. And Drew Knight, this mystery of a charming man, is a shadowy figure that balances Kelia's light, and their future relationship holds much potential. Looking forward to read the story on.
Kelia was raised within the Society as a slayer, having only her father after her mother's death. Sent out on a dangerous mission, she manages to capture an Infant, recently turned Sea Shadow. Upon her return, her father acts strangely and asks for a meeting outside the Society fortress- but it never happens, and her father turns up dead, accused of suicide. Kelia, however, cannot be fooled so easily, discovering he was murdered, and is determined to solve the case on her own - even if for the success of her investigation, she must unite her forces with Drew Knight, the most infamous Sea Shadow and her mortal enemy.
I enjoyed the fantastic and turbulent ride, resembling the tales of pirates and sea monsters and the historical atmosphere breathing through the pages. Sea Shadows are vampire-like creatures with several unique constraints, which might or might not to hold true - it remains yet to be seen how tight the net of lies surrounding Kelia is in reality. Nevertheless, be sure that you need to look really beneath the surface, because no one is who he/she seems or claims to be, betrayal and trust issues are on a daily schedule, lies and half-truths are creating thick layers over the truths, and to learn what is real and what is made up, Kelia must dig really deep. I very much liked how the true personalities of the main characters slowly came to light as we got to know them better and better, and utterly enjoyed the exciting and adventurous plot. Kelia is a stubborn and infuriating heroine in a sense, but she has both the brains and the heart to truly win the reader over, despite some poor choices and bad decisions. We all make mistakes, right? She is that more human and easy to connect with. And Drew Knight, this mystery of a charming man, is a shadowy figure that balances Kelia's light, and their future relationship holds much potential. Looking forward to read the story on.
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