4 - ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

"He f****** loved this woman. And he prayed that wouldn't cost her life."

The Captain's Curse is the eighth novel in the Sentinels of Savannah series, which is an adult paranormal romance following the crew of the Sea Dog, pirates who uncovered the Holy Grail 200 years ago and gained immortality as a result. Now they work with Department 13, a secret division of the US government focused on gathering all things paranormal in the name of protecting Americans from these powers and people getting into the wrong hands. When the Spear of Destiny, a relic that can kill immortals, goes missing it appears Captain Ian Finn's nemesis from centuries ago may be tied to its disappearance. It also put his ex lover, crime novelist Lily Bouchard, in the crosshairs and she's none too pleased with him waltzing back into her life after ghosting him. Yet...they attraction between them never faded and maybe, just maybe, they can make things work...if Ian dares to tell his truths.

Now I have not read any of these previous books in this series and, honestly, you don't have to because this books takes the time to really draw you in. Ian comes across as this charming but somewhat moody character. He has baggage from his past that he still has yet to overcome two hundred years later and seeing him have to confront it for a chance to have love was sweet. I could tell he obviously loved Lily and his really grew into this by the end. He was in beginning a bit mainsplain-y at times but Lily was very quick to correct him.

Lily is a character all readers can really get into. Having had a previous fling with Ian before he vanished ,she is in for something when she discovers he's an immortal pirate. She is the character with a clear head on her shoulder and I liked her being this voice of reason in amongst the hot air between enemies. She also doesn't allow herself to be walked all over despite her mortality. I loved seeing her search for answers and taking a lead at times.

The romance between this two is filled with delicious tension. I would place the spice in this book at around 2 spicy peppers as we have a couple explicit scenes but the majority of the story focusing on the sweet romance element as these two characters navigate their future. Their chemistry was well introduced and, even without reading their past, I felt I had plenty of clues and sign posting in this book to have a good sense.

"You frustrate me and challenge me and make me think. I've never met anyone like you before, Lily Bouchard, and I will do whatever it takes to gain your trust and win your heart."

In terms of world this book does an amazing job keeping you in the loop despite this being the eighth book in the series. The lore, mythical beings, setting of Savannah were all vibrant and easy to follow. I feel reading the other books would have further built the world and now I want to dive into the others! In terms of story, The first half took a bit of time to get going as it took some time to lay foundations but the second half was filled with tension, fast pacing, and action. There are different storylines and perspectives that come together quite well and I felt the read was effortless. I enjoyed the larger roles we saw in side characters like Holli and the introduction to further stories to come like David and Petra. The ending had a really good falling action that helped bring the story to an end and I devoured this in two days.

Overall if you're looking for a paranormal romance with pirates, shifters, magic, and more this series had a lot to offer and then some. I had a blast reading this and now need to go back and read book one to see how it all started. The crew of the Sea Dog are sure to grab your attention and not let go!

Thank you to Netgalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC

Romance, Action, HEA, A Perfect Read!

A swoon worthy pirate romance with so much action going on, an immortal pirate crew with shifters, a fierce enemy back on the scene, secrets long buried revealed, add in the love of his life, some steamy moments, forgiveness and a heart stopping romantic gesture creates one recommended read not to be missed.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

An immortal pirate crew, their captain, the mortal woman he separated himself from to protect her from danger, and the weapon that could end them all in the hands of their enemy—what's not to love? The Captain's Curse has action, adventure, romance, and forgiveness played out across present-day Savannah, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C. I thoroughly enjoyed this paranormal romance.

Note: This is book 8 in the series but can be read as a standalone. I picked this one up first and wasn't lost at all. I plan to go back and read the rest of the books in the series.

I received an advance copy from Entangled Publishing and NetGalley. All review opinions are my own.

Rated 3.5 Stars

The Captain's Curse was an enjoyable read. It was easy to read. There was action and adventure. It was sweet and sexy. However, it was also repetitive which took away from my overall enjoyment of it. It's the last book in the series but I didn't feel lost at all while reading it. It did make me want to go back and read the previous books. I am definitely interested I reading more books from this author.

Not my cup of tea.
I am so disappointed that I didn’t love this book. From reading the description I was so excited! Immortal pirates, second chance romance, love story between pirate captain and female writer. It is sort of a cross between Indiana Jones and a supernatural romance. But wait!! This all sounds amazing, what’s the problem? Well, firstly I haven’t read the rest of the series but there are enough details that I didn’t think it mattered.
Secondly the pirates don’t seem like real pirates, more like typical romance trope heroes who are occasionally pirates. There is no swashbuckling, no pirate banter, no sweeping adventure and nothing I usually expect from pirates. Captain Flynn could have been a immortal real estate tycoon and nothing would have changed in the book.
I also found everything was resolved too easily for the characters.
My favourite part was the epilogue.

This book was great. Immortal pirates was a big draw for me. Add in mermaids, shifters and magic users and I couldn't put it down. The centuries old feud fueled the events in this story. With more than a bit of steam and a tear inducing happy ending I happily recommend it.

Ian Flynn has always been kind of a jerk in the other
building oks in this series. This time he get to redeem himself. I’m pretty sure this is the last book in this series and it makes me sad.

His mouth curved into a crooked smile. “I am a pirate, love.”

Immortal pirate’s that drank from the Holy Grail. A vendetta over 250 years in the making but who’s counting. Ancient artifact stolen from a secret government warehouse that can kill an immortal. Let the adventure begin.

Lily Bouchard is a writer. She fell for Ian hard and then he just up and left without a word.

“She’s not a warrior like your mermaid. She writes thrillers.” “So maybe she can write us out of this mess.”

What a unique paranormal concept with tons of action. If your tired of the same old then this is what you need.

“Because when we finish this, you’re mine.” She squeezed his hand. “I already am.”
I hope even though the Sentinels all got HEA’s that we still get more Department 13. There is still so much to explore.

Lisa Kessler's immortal pirate are always a treat and this was a very entertaining story featuring well plotted characters.
I had fun, liked the world building, and rooted for the characters.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine

I really hate when a series ends, but I know all must. This is the series ender, and I don’t know if I will recover. I just love all these pirates and Department 13; I don’t want this to end. Getting back to this book, the author saved the moodiest and most arrogant pirate for last: Captain Ian Flynn. I wasn’t sure I’d ever like him, but this book made me love him as much as the others. We finally learn what happened that fateful night, and the journey there is one fraught with danger, love, laughter, and forgiveness. Well-written paranormal romance. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

i loved this book! Ian and Lily were so good together and I liked that we didn't have to go through the beginning of their relationship, just focused on their second chance.

My only issue with the book is that Lily keeps thinking she's an expert on all things murder and suspense because she's an author. Um, false. Just because she is an author does not mean she ACTUALLY knows how murderers or stalkers ACTUALLY think. Other than that, it was a great story and a great end to the series. I'm looking forward to spin offs.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Ian Flynn is the captain of the Sea Dog and would do anything for his crew . So, when he hears about the Spear of Destiny going missing he is on a mission to get it back. The spear is the only thing that can kill an immortal. It is in the hands of the ex captain of the Sea Dog. Now he and the woman he has fallen in love with , Lily they must find the spear and save the crew of the Sea Dog .
Ian and Lily well now here is a couple. Ian is the immortal swash buckling pirate who is holding on to a lot of hurt and secrets. He has isolated himself away from his crew and they really don't have their trust . He has hurt the woman who has his heart but didn't know it . I will say that he is one sexy man but there are moments when you want to smack him upside the head because of his stubbornness. Lily is a writer and the sweetest woman ever . She has been hurt before by Ian but she is guarding her heart . She maybe sweet but there is a toughness about her that have her fighting to keep Ian and the crew alive. We also get to meet Morgan the ex captain of the Sea dog and he is out for blood . He didn't die on the island over 200 years ago and now he wants his revenge. He is well kind of blood thirsty and hot as heck but is there redemption for Morgan you will have to read to find out . We also get the rest of the gang back and honestly funnier and sexier then ever.
This is a bittersweet book for me , I love this series so much and it honestly felt sad it was the last book in the series. We finally get to see Ian get his hea which to me was great . The author really put these characters through so much. Counting the city of Savannah which she used as a great back drop to the stories of the men of the Sea Dog. The author packed a lot into this last book and actually found a way to redeem both Ian and Morgan. So if you want a book full of intrigue , all the smexiness and well pirates . Check out this series and each book can be read as a stand alone. What are you waiting for go meet the men of the SEA DOG and get your pirate on.

I seem to be reading books out of order, and although this is the 8th book in the series I didn't feel I was missing parts while reading.

Ian Flynn is the Sea Dog's captain, he and his crew have survived for two hundred years after drinking from the Holy Grail. They are immortal. Ian works with Agent Bale the director of Department 13, a secret division of the government tasked with protecting Americans from paranormal beings and relics.

The relics are kept locked up, but some have been vanishing and one is the Spear of Destiny. This prized relic has the ability to kill immortals and Agent Bale believes Ian's old nemesis is in possession of it. It's a game-changer.

Ian ghosted Lily Bouchard, a writer, believing it was in her best interest. Ian hears that Lily is in town, and under the circumstances, Ian knows that she can be used as a pawn against him. Ian tells her an unbelievable tale and provides proof in a shocking manner. Lily is reeling from the news when she is confronted by the lover of Ian's nemesis trying to persuade Lily to help. It is when Lily's life is threatened, that Ian insists she moves in with him.

It's obvious that Ian and Lily still have feelings for one another, but Lily has a wall of distrust built around her and Ian has been too proud to open his heart to anyone.

No one expects another attack that brings more complications.

I loved this story and the setting in Savannah. I've heard Savannah is the most haunted city in America. It's almost believable how 200-year-old immortal pirates would walk around. I liked how Lily and Holli worked together to build a truce. Great paranormal story!

I received an ARC and I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.

Ian Flynn, former captain of the Sea Dog, has always been a bit of an enigma. Ruthless, determined but capable of kindness and understanding. Now we get to see what makes this immortal pirate tick!

Ian and Morgan were once Captain and First Mate but Ian led a mutiny and consequently became the new captain of the freshly named Sea Dog. But Morgan didn't die on the island they stranded him on and he found his own way to immortality. Now he has it in for the Sea Dog crew.

Lily is a journalist and writer and had her heart broken by Ian. She doesn't realise that the break up was to keep her safe and new she's walked right back into his life and into the crosshairs of Morgan. She knows nothing of the crews immortality so she is in for a bit of bumpy ride on her introduction to this secret world.

Ian really made a rod for his own back with the crew. He didn't give them the benefit of the doubt to try and understand his motives which led to the original Sea Dog's destruction. He just let them treat him like a pariah. He still tried to look after him even when they all but excommunicated him! The crew did band together when the danger comes calling.

I loved Lily's reaction to the shady world the crew lives in. Her world crashes down around her and she takes it on the chin. She's determined, loyal and ready to take on this new challenge. Ian puts his foot in it a few times between mansplaining things and TELLING her what she needs to do instead of allowing her to make her own decision. But he finally gets clue!

Lots of action and adventure. Smexiness. Secrets and taut détentes!

I loved it! The last of the Sea Dog crew has finally met his match, and neither one of them will go down without a fight. There is so much drama and love in this one. Thank goodness for having friends in your corner when enemies are coming out of the woodwork. *Reviewed for Net Galley*.

The Captain's Curse by Lisa Kessler is a thrilling romance novel that will leave you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. With an intriguing plot centered around a priceless religious artifact, the Spear of Destiny, and a cast of immortal pirate characters, this book will keep you hooked from start to finish.

The chemistry between Ian and Lily is electric, and their love story is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Kessler's writing style is engaging and her attention to detail makes the story come alive. Kessler has created a unique and captivating world full of immortal pirates, mythical relics, and centuries-old vendettas. The Captain's Curse is a must-read for fans of romance, adventure, and fantasy. Thank you to NetGalley for this digital ARC.

The end of a series is always sad for me. I can't imagine how the author must feel. This story was excellent. Captain Flynn has fallen in love. David from Division 13 is smitten by one of his employees. The spear which pierced the side Jesus is still around and has the power to kill immortals. Where is it? Who has it? How can the pirates get? An exciting story which answers all the questions and even made me cry near the end.

Captain Ian Flynn is facing a threat to his life, which is more difficult than you could imagine, since he is one of the immortal pirates in Sea Dog’s crew. When he received news that a person from his past was not as dead as he thought, Flynn left his girlfriend and cut all his contact to protect her from this enemy.
Lily is a writer looking for a change in scenery to inspire her new novel, that is telling a story with a stalker, and take her mind away from her recent break up. In her mind, she must be a little paranoid, because Lily thinks there is someone following her. Little does she know that this new place she chose to stay is going to be where she reconnects with Ian and finds out that the fictional world, she has always read in books is closer than she could ever imagine.
This was a great ending to this series and Lisa put a lot of thought into it. All our pirates are happily married and found their partners. I found it clever for her to redeem not only Ian, but also Morgan in this last book. Yes, they once were 18th century pirates, but they have evolved into more modern people. I found this book to wrap all loose ends from the pirates and make a smooth segway to a new series/book (maybe?) with David and Petra as protagonists.
Lisa has a writing style that really resonates with me. It is quickly paced and presents facts on a needs-to-know basis, which I really enjoy.

Another hit for this author. This latest addition to the series was just as good as the others, if not a bit better. Flynn had always alluded the ship mates, but they united as a force of one and it was a page turner from the first page. Of course, the love scenes were scorching. Fantastic book!

This modern pirate romance is absolutely awesome! The story is fresh and fascinating, and the characters are addictive and sexy.. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Ian Flynn, captain of the Sea Dog, is immortal. His crew all live in Savannah but none of them really care for him. Now he has learned that there is a weapon that can kill even an immortal. His ex captain, Morgan, which they left on a deserted island to die, has it and plans to kill the crew for staging a mutiny two hundred and fifty years ago. But the ex captain wants to hurt Ian the most, by killing the woman he loves.
Lily is a writer and met Ian while interviewing him for being Atlanta's Most Eligible Bachelor. They fell in love but when he found out about Morgan, he leaves her with no goodbye or anything. He thinks he is protecting her until he finds her in Savannah. Lily has no plans to forgive him but when he tells her his secret, she can't help but soften towards him.
With Morgan after them and then a secret society, can they get the relic back and win Lily's heart back?

Finally Ian's story. I hated the way the crew treated even though I know they had their reasons. Action. Sex. Pirates. And secrets. Second chance at love ( as long as Ian doesn't mess it up ). I absolutely loved this story. Hopefully Bane's story will be next.

* Voluntarily read and reviewed for Netgalley*