by R. M. Gray
First published 2026
Aster raises her blade as elemental magic whirls across the deck of her ship. At seventeen, she commands her own pirate crew and has weathered storms across the seven seas. Now she faces foes determined to steal her inheritance. Ancient power flows in her blood, but she cannot master forces that might rescue her sailors or obliterate everyone she cares about. Combat challenges Aster repeatedly while romance tangles her plans. She walks through dangerous partnerships and changing allegiances as secrets about her heritage surface. Every discovery creates fresh perils and brutal decisions. The ocean world's survival depends on Aster learning how to shatter the curse that has plagued her ancestors across generations. Her quest peaks when she realizes that embracing her destiny means abandoning her former identity.
Genres: romance, adventure, fantasy, action
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: chosen-one, enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Seven Seas
Period: Ancient
480 pages · Hardcover · Little, Brown Books for Young Readers