I really enjoyed this book! The all the characters in it are complex and well written including the side characters - everyone has their own personality.

It pulled me in right from the start and the pacing was good, I'll definitely be looking for the sequel when it comes out!

Overall, an absolutely great book!

(This is a review of an Advance Reader Copy, thank you to Netgalley and the publisher)

this is definitely filling up that fantasy kick I'm on! I loved the vibes between Captain Leviathan and Maeve! It was so fun and I loved the drama

Imagine a story with a runaway princess, a pirate captain with secrets, and a mysterious princess. Now add in some enemies-to-lovers tension, a crew of diverse characters, and plenty of witty banter. The result is a fun adventure on the high seas.

Our main character is a brave woman with a fearless spirit, ready to conquer the waves. Then there's Levi, the charming male lead with a voice as irresistible as a siren's.

But what makes this story stand out is how the characters grow and change throughout the book. From the main characters to the quirky sidekicks, everyone has a journey of growth and discovery. By the end of the book, you'll feel like you've grown along with them.

As you finish the last chapter, you'll feel excited about what comes next for these compelling characters. This author has earned a place on my must-read list. Bravo for crafting a story that left me wanting more.

This gave me “If Will Turner captained a boat named the Ollipheist and could also turn into a sea dragon that had been hunted to extinction” vibes 🏴‍☠️

I hadn’t stepped foot into the land of romantasy pirates up until this book, and I’m so glad I did. I am here for the swashbuckling, hoisting the Jolly Roger, and shivering me timbers. Don’t forget the sea shanties of course.

It took me a minute to get into this book. The FMC was slightly insufferable for the first few chapters. But she grew on me, became less insufferable, and actually started to have charm to her besides the “spoiled stubborn brat” act she had for too long. It gets better I promise, stick with it.
And then before I realized it I was heavily invested in the lives of all the pirates on the ship and loving all the characters. Especially the ship cat Lieutenant Colonel Lazlo. Tbh he needed more page time.
Captain Leviathan is a hottie pirate that I literally pictured as Will Turner/Orlando Bloom and nothing will change my mind. His mom used to captain the ship and he keeps her on his crew - how freaking wholesome is that?

I enjoyed the elements of fantasy - the sea dragons, sirens, elves, and fae. The world building was more surface level than I would have liked but I’m hoping it dives deeper in the sequel.

Overall a very fun, quick read that surprised me by how much I enjoyed it!
If you like pirates with hearts of gold, Orlando Bloom lookin’ sea dragons, and want to fall in love with a ship cat named Lieutenant Commander Lazlo then you’ll probably enjoy this book.

The Last Leviathan is the first book in a new Fantasy Romance series and the debut book from Anacostia Miller and OMG I did not expect it to be so freaking good, I’m obsessed with Mae and Levi’s story!

When princess Maeve is forced to marry a cruel man she hates, she stows away on a ship in hopes to escape and get the freedom she always wanted. But it quickly turns out that the ship she chose is actually full of pirates and her future lies in the hands of the handsome but aggravating Captain Leviathan. Despite their scorching chemistry, Mae and Levi bicker like no other, but when secrets and hidden identities come to light, they will need to quickly make difficult decisions regarding their lives… and their hearts.

The Last Leviathan is everything I love in fantasy romance books, we have pirates, mythological creatures, morally grey MMC, strong FMC not afraid to fight for her future and enemies to lovers romance with amazing banter and spicy scenes that had me blushing, I couldn’t put this book down and already can’t wait for the next one. Mae and Levi were amazing MCs, both individually and as a couple and I loved every scenes with these two, they both went through a lot and grew in this book and I adored their slow burn romance and loved seeing them together when they finally gave in to their feelings. All the characters were well fleshed out and I loved all the crew, especially Howler, Gunny, Boats and Wraith and can’t wait to see them again. The author created a truly fascinating world filled with some interesting creatures and there was so much action and some plot twists in this book it was a true page-turner.

The Last Leviathan is a truly incredible fantasy romance book that I definitely recommend to everyone who enjoys this genre, book 2 can’t come soon enough!

This had all the makings and tropes of a great read but unfortunately it fell flat for me. I didn’t connect to the characters and everything felt a bit rushed.
This also reads as an insta lust/love which isn’t my thing so that was probably the beginning of the book’s downfall for me.

The author’s writing is good, I just wished that things were less rushy and that the characters were a bit more developed and had a better connection between them, if that makes sense. If the ennemis part had lasted a bit longer I might have enjoyed it more.

If you love pirates, ennemis (ish) to lovers, insta lust/love, touch her and die, you might enjoy this one

BK-R
2 Chili Pepper
New Adult

Looking for pirates, sea dragons and a good tale? This book is for you! Watch as Princess Maeve proves herself to Captain Leviathan.

I loved this story! I read it slower because I didn't want it to end! Can't wait for book 2!

Fantasy world. Enemies-to-lovers. Spice. Oh, and swashbuckling pirates. There’s a lot to love in this Romantasy series starter. The world-building is fantastic. Great imagery and a decent pace. Good tension and wonderful love scenes. I enjoyed this novel and will read the sequel.

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.

I enjoyed this book so much! I was immediately drawn into this world of pirates and Mae’s attempts to reclaim her life after living under her father and being sold as a bride. It is a story of her claiming her identity and strength after she stows away on a pirate ship. I loved the depiction of life on the pirate ship as she works and learns what she is capable of. And the found family that is brought on.

The banter and the romance are so fun. I love a good banter and sassy back and forth and this book has plenty of it. The way he protects her while trying to avoid his feelings for her. It was such an enjoyable read and I can’t wait to see where this world takes us!

Thank you, NetGalley, Hot Tree Publishing, and Anacostia Miller, for providing me with this ARC in exchange for honest review.
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In case you don't know, I love romantasy about pirates and sirens. And this is exactly giving you pirates, sirens, Elfs, sea dragon, mermaids, and more.

We follow Maeve Cross, who's a princess and forced to be married with a rich, awful, and abusive guy with an exchange of armies for the king. Then, Mae decided to run away and eventually meet the Captain Leviathan.

So, basically the premises are everything I love, and yet I feel so disappointed with this book. It feels underwhelming. It feels raw and like a written draft that needs to be written more. I know it's all fantasy and fiction, but I want some realistic details like how Maeve didn't feel nauseous or sick even a bit meanwhile she has never been in a ship before
I think the world building and magical system, need more work, it confused me quite much.

Plot feels rushed, romance feels like an instant-love, and I'm a fan of slow born, so 😬 I just couldn't care more about romance between main characters. The political plot actually interests me more, but unfortunately, it wasn't explored well.
When you heard of "pirates" you expect some action stuff going on, tension, and all that, but no. I didn't get that from this book, which MAKES ME CRAZY, I WANT TO LOVE THIS BOOK SO MUCH. Maybe it's not for me 😔 and the "kind of mystery twist" at the end, very underwhelming, I didn't really care what's going to happen in the next book.

As it's an adult fiction, apparently there's a lot of smut scenes going on. I have no beef with smut lovers, and I don't really mind if as long as it's not over the top, dominating the book, and not making me cringe. This one, I cringed a lot. You'll expect the horniest two being and smuts everywhere.

But if you think, a pirates, sirens, elfs, magic, smuts, 'no one can touch you' kind of guy, very fast paced, intrigue you enough, you might wanna give it a try.

5 stars from me always indicates that the vibes of the book are immaculate- and this is no exception!

An isolated princess fleeing an arranged marriage to a total brute, a pirate captain with an important secret, a close-knit pirate family with hidden names, and the open sea- a combination for the ages!!!

This was such a fun adventure following Princess Maeve as she escapes as a stowaway on a pirate ship, works hard and discovers her inner (and outer strength), wins over the irritable Captain Leviathan, and begins a quest to uncover her own past. The story kicked off in action from minute one, and never wavered in its strength. We stick with Maeve for the most part (with some Cap POVs thrown in) and watch her find her strength and her voice, as she forges friendships with Howler, Wraith, and Boats and pushes Captain Levi in all the wrong (but also so right) buttons. We know there's more to Maeve and all her companions than we initially are told, but how it all comes about is so intriguing as a reader!

I love a fantasy book that sets up a series- and as much as I love a well-earned cliffhanger ending, I appreciate it when a story can wrap up nicely with what feels like a perfect pause point in the story, giving the reader time to live in this moment of peace before the action picks back up in book 2. Speaking of book 2- need that as soon as possible, thank you!!!

Thank you so much to Anacostia Miller and NetGalley for a chance to read this in exchange for an honest review!

- Dual POV's
- Open door romance

Loved it! I was completely hooked from the first chapter to the last. The character development was fantastic. The plot was engaging, and the pacing kept me turning the pages. The world-building and descriptions were amazing. This author is definitely going on my must-read list!

"The Last Leviathan" by Anacostia Miller is a captivating tale of adventure, romance, and self-discovery that will sweep readers away on a thrilling journey from the first page to the last.

Maeve Cross is a heroine like no other—brave, independent, and determined to forge her own path in a world that seeks to confine her. From the moment she stows away on a pirate ship to escape her oppressive fate, she captures readers' hearts with her resilience and spirit.

Captain Leviathan is equally compelling—a rugged and enigmatic figure whose past is shrouded in mystery. As Maeve and Leviathan's paths intertwine, sparks fly and tensions rise, creating a captivating dynamic that keeps readers eagerly turning pages.

Miller's prose is richly detailed and immersive, painting a vivid picture of the high seas and the colorful characters that inhabit them. From the bustling ports to the treacherous waters of the Farlight Isles, the world-building is expertly crafted, drawing readers into a world of adventure and intrigue.

But what truly sets "The Last Leviathan" apart is its exploration of themes of identity, freedom, and destiny. As Maeve and Leviathan navigate the challenges they face, they are forced to confront their own beliefs and question the roles they've been assigned in life. It's a journey of self-discovery that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling.

Overall, "The Last Leviathan" is a masterpiece of storytelling—a swashbuckling adventure filled with romance, danger, and unexpected twists. Anacostia Miller has crafted a tale that will linger in readers' minds long after they've turned the final page. Whether you're a fan of historical fiction, romance, or adventure, this book is sure to captivate and enthrall.

I was enchanted by this book. I am a mom of a 6 month old, and suffered for two nights trying to read as much of this book as fast as humanly possible. I couldn’t put it down. I was a starving beast needing to get more of Maeve, Leviathan, the crew, and life at sea. The more you read the better it gets. It’s the story that keeps on giving.
Maeve starts off as this sweet girl who’s escaping from her designed future and grows into this ferocious woman who still manages to keep that softness within her. She kind, hardworking, clever, and was a character you wanted to journey with.
Leviathan , the fair but deadly pirate has no time for a stowaway but cannot help but feel bad for the lost soul that has come aboard his ship. He is rude, ruthless, and ravenous, but I mean cmon that’s the pirates life and if that’s so wrong lock me up and throw away the key. Preferably, aboard his ship.
The crew and his mates were amazing side characters with great personalities. They did a great job of breaking up the chaos surrounding the main characters.
I urge you if you love, enemies to lovers, runaway brides, great banter, delicious spice, pirates, magical creatures this book is for you.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

As a fan of fantasy books, this was my first venture into pirate themed fantasy despite having some on my tbr and what an adventure it was!

This is the debut novel in this series and is a dual POV between Maeve, a princess, and Leviathan, a pirate captain. When Mae stows away on a pirate ship to avoid a forced marriage by her father, the king, and a generally terrible person, she finds herself under threat of becoming a prisoner all over again.

As the fmc who lived her life as a princess locked in a tower you can't help but fall in love with Mae as she's not afraid to pull her weight and speak her mind standing up to people who underestimate her! Captain Leviathan appears as a hardened pirate captain, but as harsh as he seems, there's a softness there too.

As the story progresses, feelings change, true identities are revealed, and everyone's fighting for their lives! This story was thrilling, and I just couldn't put it down, devouring it in one day.

Thanks to netgalley and Hot tree publishing for an arc of this story for my honest review. I can't wait to see where this series takes us next and is a definite must-read and has made its way to being one of my favourite reads so far this year.

the last leviathan plunges readers into a thrilling tale of rebellion, romance, and redemption set amidst the treacherous waters of the farlight isles. maeve cross, a heroine with fire in her heart and salt in her veins, defies the constraints of her noble birth and embarks on a daring journey to seize control of her destiny. in a narrative brimming with tension and intrigue, miller crafts a vivid world where the clash between duty and desire takes center stage. maeve’s courageous decision to flee her oppressive life leads her to the decks of a pirate ship, where she finds herself entangled with the enigmatic captain leviathan. their dynamic is electric, as they navigate a tempestuous sea of conflicting loyalties and undeniable attraction.

the chemistry between two our main characters crackles with intensity, driving the narrative forward with a sense of urgency that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. yet, amidst the swashbuckling adventures and heart-stopping escapades, the last leviathan delves deeper, exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and the search for belonging. the farlight isles itself serve as a richly drawn backdrop for the unfolding drama, their secrets and mysteries mirroring the complexities of maeve's own journey of self-discovery.

while the book excels in its vivid storytelling and compelling character dynamics, some readers may find certain aspects of the plot predictable or familiar. additionally, the adult themes and content may not be suitable for all audiences. overall, the last leviathan is a captivating voyage into the heart of adventure and romance, buoyed by strong characterization and evocative prose. with its blend of amazing action and heartfelt emotion, it’s sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in this thrilling series.

thank you to netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

the last leviathan plunges readers into a thrilling tale of rebellion, romance, and redemption set amidst the treacherous waters of the farlight isles. maeve cross, a heroine with fire in her heart and salt in her veins, defies the constraints of her noble birth and embarks on a daring journey to seize control of her destiny. in a narrative brimming with tension and intrigue, miller crafts a vivid world where the clash between duty and desire takes center stage. maeve’s courageous decision to flee her oppressive life leads her to the decks of a pirate ship, where she finds herself entangled with the enigmatic captain leviathan. their dynamic is electric, as they navigate a tempestuous sea of conflicting loyalties and undeniable attraction.

the chemistry between two our main characters crackles with intensity, driving the narrative forward with a sense of urgency that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. yet, amidst the swashbuckling adventures and heart-stopping escapades, the last leviathan delves deeper, exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and the search for belonging. the farlight isles itself serve as a richly drawn backdrop for the unfolding drama, their secrets and mysteries mirroring the complexities of maeve's own journey of self-discovery.

while the book excels in its vivid storytelling and compelling character dynamics, some readers may find certain aspects of the plot predictable or familiar. additionally, the adult themes and content may not be suitable for all audiences. overall, the last leviathan is a captivating voyage into the heart of adventure and romance, buoyed by strong characterization and evocative prose. with its blend of amazing action and heartfelt emotion, it’s sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in this thrilling series.

thank you to netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book was so good! The plot and the pacing was so great and I absolutely loved the romance. I can’t recommend this book enough.

Oh my. So so so good. The flow was good. The speed was good. The plot was good. The character development was good. Everything was so good.

•Runaway bride
•Pirates
•Banter
•Found Family
•Shape shifting sea dragons
•Elves & Fae
•A villain or two you know is going to get what’s coming to them in the next books to come.
•A bad @ss FMC who truly shines.

Absolutely loved this. Can’t wait for the next books. Can’t wait to buy this and add to my shelf.

I’m going to say that this was one of my very favorite reads of the year. Dang it, I loved everything about this book so much! I’m trying to collect my thoughts. Every time this book got to a plot point where I would think “dang this is where it loses me” because I thought I had predicted the next turn, it totally spun in a different, extremely satisfying direction. READ THIS BOOK! Seriously.. read this book.

Maeve is a princess, kept secluded and naive to be used as a pawn in her father’s ploy for power. As she’s traded off into a forced marriage, one that she immediately realizes will come with extreme violence, she takes the first opportunity to run- as a stowaway on a pirate ship. The captain takes some reluctant pity on her and sends her to work with his crew and most trusted officers. Maeve must keep her true identity a secret long enough to gain her freedom, but after Captain Leviathan saves her life her secret is out and he will ransom her back to the husband and kingdom she would do anything to escape. The thread that binds their two histories together is tragic and traumatic, but Leviathan is able to realize Maeve is an innocent pawn in her family’s monstrosities. While they both try to shut down the draw they feel to one another, but Maeve and Captain Leviathan can’t help but gravitate towards one another amid insults, banter and headstrong wills… and that is all the first half! Revelations, ambush, kidnapping, rescue efforts, love story gah! It has it all.

Pirates, fae, elves, sea beasts, sea dragons, magic, true enemies to lovers, slow burn, action, found family, forced marriage, forced proximity, banter, spice (that fits into the plot so well and doesn’t overwhelm it), political intrigue. The writing is so good, so smooth and the dialogue and banter is just top notch. The pace of the plot is perfect, we get some really great side characters, love the world building. Cannot wait for the rest of this series. This book makes me so excited to see where the story will go and to get more world building and back stories!

So very thankful to get to read this ARC! Thank you to the author Acostia Miller and Xpresso Book Tours for allowing me to read and review.