This is a perfectly well-rounded start to a suspenseful and entertaining young adult series. I would definitely recommend it to any adventurous spirits looking for a fun (yet not lacking depth) and engaging journey (and I love a good pirate story!).

My first impressions were wary, as the story starts us off meeting two sisters, and I was a bit worried about the initial comparison between them: one tomboyish “renegade” vs. the young, carefree beauty. However, as the characters develop these stereotypes are somewhat broken down, and I must say, I myself am partial to a story of two sisters (I was reminded ever so slightly of Frozen with the initial dynamic between them).

Portrayed as a strong, determined, yet sensitive and complicated female lead, Sabina’s character development, and the character development in general throughout the story, is steady and leaves much to be discovered with each little plot twist. I found myself reacting naturally to the characters (whether it be in disgust, admiration, or attraction) and am left wanting to find out more about each of them.

The plot is well-structured and not overly predictable, with just the right amount of turns to keep the reader engaged and surprised. This is by no means a boring read. There was never a moment I felt the story dragging on or spending too much time/description on a specific setting or event. The suspense is satisfactory without being overwhelming. There is tension, there is fear, there is heartbreak (perhaps not in the way you might expect!), there is humor, and there is hope. I am looking forward to the rest of the trilogy!