This one wasn't my cup of tea but Katee Robert's books are always hit or miss for me. I'm not entirely sure what it was with this one but I will say that I found the characters a bit annoying. It was good to see a character from another book as the lead here but it just didn't stick for me. Definitely give it a read if you're a Katee fan, though!

The second novel in Katee Robert's Crimson Sails series, this book is a road trip/forced proximity/grumpy vs. sunshine trope fest! If you're looking for a spicy sapphic romantasy this Pride month (or any month!) this one's for you! Katee Robert brings their usual touch to this story between a vampire out for revenge and a selkie similarly seeking something stolen from them.

My thanks to NetGalley and the Berkley Publishing Group for access to an eARC!

I have loved Lizzy since Hunt on Dark Waters and my love just grew with this book! She is such a wonderfully grumpy murderous vampire and nobody is going to change that. Maeve is a fierce, sassy selkie who stands up for what she believes in, even if it could get her killed. The attraction is there on both sides from the get go but they initially resist until they end up in a mutually beneficial arrangement. We get snippets of Bowen and Evelyn but this really is Lizzy and Maeve's story. It's def giving sapphic pirates of the Caribbean but add vampires vibes. While Katee does a good job of explaining the broad strokes of HODW I do suggest actually reading it first. While the romance is a standalone and you dont end on a real cliffhanger, it is a part of an overarching storyline.

This was a great follow up to Hunt on Dark Waters! I loved learning more about Lizzie and seeing a different side of her.

While I still have questions about Threshold and the Council and the Cŵn Annwn, I feel like those questions are questions that a lot of the characters have, too.

Hoping we're getting another book in this series because I need to know more about this rebellion! And I also want to see Evelyn, Bowen, Lizzie, and Maeve again.

Thank you Berkley for the free book and PRH Audio for the complimentary audiobook. These opinions are my own.

The Crimson Sails series is such a unique romantasy. Blood on the Tide starts directly after Hunt on Dark Waters. I felt it did a nice job reminding readers who the characters were and what the conclusion was from the first book. I do recommend reading them in order, as Hunt on Dark Waters does a lot of world building.

In this book, we follow Lizzie, a vampire who is searching for her family's jewelry that was stolen from her. She joins forces with Maeve, a selkie whose pelt was likewise stolen from her. I've always loved legends about selkies, so I especially enjoyed seeing one as a main character.

I found the pacing a little off. I expected parts to move faster with more adventure, but there was more down time than I anticipated. And then other parts felt faster than I expected. That means that while I liked the characters and the overall idea behind the plot, this didn't capture me as well as the first book.

Alix Dale and K C Sheridan were fabulous narrators, and I enjoyed how they handled the various roles.

3.5 stars rounded up

If you love Katee Roberts's books, you will love this book. This book immediately hooked me, like most of Katee Roberts's books always do. If you are looking for a spicy sapphic vampire romance, "Blood on the Tide" is the book for you. For those who are long-time fans of Roberts's book, you will love all the easter eggs in this one.

Blood on the Tide is the second installment in Katee Robert’s Crimson Sails series, and it’s one book that had me hooked. It pleasantly surprised me how much I enjoyed this book more than Hunt on Dark Waters. Blood on the Tide is not only the first Sapphic Fantasy Romance I’ve read but also a book that deepened my love for the subgenre. As a fan of Sapphic Contemporary Romances, I was eager to explore this unique blend of fantasy and romance, particularly from the talented Katee.

If you’re considering reading the Crimson Sails series, I highly recommend starting with the first book. The second installment, Blood on the Tide, picks up where the first one left off but with a fresh perspective from different characters. Lizzie is on a quest to retrieve her family heirlooms, and Maeve, a selkie in search of her pelt, embarks on a thrilling adventure that will keep you turning the pages.

I was a little hesitant to read this book at first because I didn’t care for Lizzie in the first book, but that’s mainly due to only having Evelyn’s POV when it came to Lizzie. I trusted Katee’s development of Lizzie’s character more in Blood on the Tide, and I can officially say Lizzie is one of my favorite characters in the series. If you read Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake series and met the vampire named Asher in them, then Lizzie is going to remind you of his character, especially with the orgasmic bite she gives. Every single one of Katee’s vampire characters has that ability, which is one reason I love when Katee writes a vampire into their stories because it brings me back to my favorite vampire, Asher. Lizzie is also the sister of Wolf, and readers who read Court of the Vampire Queen will recognize his name immediately. (I’m not sure how Katee keeps up with everything, but they definitely do an excellent job interconnecting characters in other books.)

I loved Maeve, even when she comes off as a character that is a damsel in distress at first, especially at the beginning of the storyline, but don’t let that fool you. She’s very protective of Lizzie when Lizzie places herself in danger a few times, and Lizzie feels the same way as Maeve, which is why I love their connection more than Lizzie and Evelyn. Plus, Lizzie does a 360 in this book when it comes to Maeve and how much she cares for her after they spent so much time on adventures together. It may feel like a short book, but it’s jammed pack full of adventures with the characters.

This book definitely reminded me of my favorite movie franchise, Pirates of the Caribbean. I need more of these types of books, and I’m glad to know Katee is writing another book that will focus even more on the rebellion and who is actually behind it. It was only touched on a bit in this book.

What about spice? It’s Katee Robert, so expect some spicy moments, but after the push and pull between the characters end. There was hesitation in feelings between the characters, and it was due to one being a vampire and the other being a selkie. Lizzie didn’t want to hurt Maeve, especially when it came to her bite, and she didn’t want to risk Maeve’s safety. I love how protective they were of each other.

I give this book 4.5 stars and recommend it to readers who have always wanted to read a Sapphic Romance version of the Pirates of the Caribbean.

Audiobook Recommendation: If you enjoy listening to your books, I highly recommend the audiobook for Blood on the Tide. I borrowed the audiobook from my library, and the narrators, Alix Dale and K.C. Sheridan, did a phenomenal job narrating this book, especially when I couldn’t always sit down to read it due to running errands.

This was a fun read. I love reading about vampires and pirates! I loved the characters and their dynamic.

I’m going to preface this review by stating that it is going to be excessively biased and colored by my absolute obsession for all things vampire romance. This is an addiction that I’ve had since I read Twilight for the first time back in high school. This review for Blood on the Tide by Katee Robert has been written in exchange for an e-book Advanced Reader Copy.
*************This Review Contains Spoilers*********
Blood on the Tide tells the Story of Mauve and Lizzie. Mauve is a selkie who has had her pelt stolen from her while Lizzie is a blood thirsty vampire with a lost treasure she needs to recover. As stated, I adore vampire stories and Lizzie reminds me of the feminine incarnation of one of my favorite vampires in anime canon, Alucard from Hellsing Ultimate. She feels that every problem can be solved with a little bit or lot bit of murder. One would think that someone that focused on the blood of her enemies would be incapable of truly loving some one but her instant attraction to Mauve changes that perception very quickly. The two are willing and not so willing participants in a rebellion that is keeping them from achieving their personal goals until they team up to locate the lost items that mean so much to them. Before long the selkie and vampire realize there is more to their team up than trying to solve each other’s problems. They quickly realize that the thing they most need in life is each other, so much so that Lizzie is willing to walk away from the single thing that has motivated her for centuries. Without giving too much more away Katee Robert wrote a novel that made readers care about not only the developing romance between her leads but also the world she developed around them. I truly enjoyed this novel and think that others will as well.

"Blood on the Tide" by Katee Robert is a captivating mix of mythological creatures and intense romance. The story centers on an ice queen vampire, Maeve, and a soft, wholesome selkie, Lizzie. Their dynamic is magnetic, blending grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, and a fierce "touch her and die" vibe. The relationship between the badass, morally grey Maeve and the kind-hearted Lizzie is both thrilling and heartwarming. While the spice is minimal, the plot more than compensates, and the orgasmic vampire bite adds an intriguing twist.

This book truly showcases Katee Robert's storytelling prowess. Despite some moments feeling rushed, the story is immersive and enjoyable, transporting readers into a world of vampires, selkies, and pirates. Lizzie and Maeve's relationship is a highlight, offering a fun and engaging dynamic. Although Katee Robert primarily writes heterosexual romances, this sapphic tale stands out and promises to be a favorite for fans of the genre.

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Characters: 4/5
Setting: 4/5
Writing: 5/5
Plot: 4/5
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥/5
Overall: 4/5

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review!

Oh look, I’m posting another Katee Robert review. How novel.

I loved the first book in this series, and when I heard this book was sapphic AND paranormal, you best believe I smashed the request button as soon as it was up on NetGalley. I totally fell in love with Maeve and Lizzie. This book transported me back into the world and into a romance and story that just felt so real and so perfectly written on Katee's part. The spice, as always, was incredible and literally jaw dropping in moments. It feels very fitting to be (finally) sharing this review during Pride Month.

Currently on a Katee Robert kick, I tried one of her new series. I am mixed on this one. I like the world building. I especially enjoy the characters. The plot also works for me. What I do find interesting is the use of non-binary gender. Looking at the author's more updated bio, it trends with their current pronouns. For those who struggle with pronouns and consider it a fad, this book may annoy you. For those who could care less and want to read a good book, continue on! This is book two which I did read as a standalone. It took a few chapters to orient myself to the storyline. Author Katee Robert does a nice job of cluing new readers into the the current situation.



Lizzie is a vampire in a completely different universe. She followed a lover into this world for revenge and wouldn't you know it, she ends up on a different quest. The start of this story is slow and frustrating for me because I feel like Lizzie's completely received the raw end of the deal from her former lover. I am outraged at the wrongs committed against Lizzie. It seems as if no one cares and to pile it on, they feel Lizzie is not the victim. Even at the end of this book whilst the original issue may have been resolved to a degree, I still don't like how it turned out for Lizzie and what her lover did. That subplot aside, I loved the quest Lizzie ended up on.

Lizzie pairs up with Maeve, a selkie with a stolen fur. If there is one thing that gets me, it is a selkie with a stolen fur. It is at least in the top 5 things in paranormal romances that incense me. Why? Because it is tearing a person apart physically and the reason behind it is always selfish and usually heinous. In this one, it definitely is both. I'm disgusted. These two unlikely partners go through several different trials and side quests to ultimately end up where they want to be. Funny enough, where Lizzie ends up is not her original goal and I cannot be sad for her. I am happy with Lizzie's new world. I just shudder to think what will happen when the reckoning comes from her mother.

The pace of this story ebbs and flows as Lizzie and Maeve run into obstacles to overcome. At one point Maeve arrives at a dead end and becomes forlorn. I enjoyed the highs and lows of the emotions throughout this story. It helps build the bond between Lizzie and Maeve. This Ff paranormal romance is recommended to readers who enjoy quests, questionable antiheroes, and where there be monsters encounters.

If you’re a Katee Robert fan, then you’re gonna appreciate some of the Easter eggs in this one. 😁

Lizzie is stuck in the threshold after chasing her ex through a portal in Hunt on the Dark Waters.

Maeve is a sea selkie who is missing the selkie part of her personality.

They need to work together to get back the things taken from them, but that’s harder than it sounds.

Happy pride, friends! If you're looking for a sapphic romance-fantasy this June look no further than Blood on the Tide!

This is the second novel in the Crimson Sails series. I haven't read the first one, but I don't think it's necessary to still enjoy the story. There are references to the couple in the first novel and I have since bought it to get caught up.

Now on to the review! Hot damn is this a spicy book! It's a romantasy between a bloodline vampire, Lizzie, and a selkie, Maeve.

The majority of this novel takes place on the open sea and true to most pirate stories there are tons of action and fighting scenes, treasure seeking, and romance. In particular, I love that what brings these two together is that they can help each other achieve their goals. Lizzie is intent on reclaiming her stolen family heirlooms and Maeve needs to reclaim her stolen skin, without it she isn't complete. What keeps them together is attraction (but of course) and affection.

The sex scenes will have you fanning yourself. Did I mention that Lizzie's bites and blood-sucking are orgasmic? Oh, I didn't? Well, when Lizzie feeds on you it makes you orgasm. Ummm, sign me up?!?! Maeve is sexy in her own right too. Both are strong and a force to be reckoned with. It just made me so happy to read about them!

There's a minor miscommunication trope - but it's more like being afraid to admit true feelings for fear that the other person doesn't feel the same way.

I did feel like the ending was anti-climatic but I also understand that it was setting up the next novel-- which I fully intend to read!

Overall, it was a quick, fun, and sexy read!

I really wanted to love this book, as I have loved all the other Katee Roberts books I have read, however I found it extremely hard to get into the story. I feel like the story fell flat and the characters and their relationships lacked dimension. I also was disappointed in the level of spice which seemed lackluster in comparison to what Katee is known for. Overall the story was ok but could of been more passionate and had more emotions injected into the characters and plot.

⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️🌶️./5

Thanks NetGalley for the eARC!

Another fun book from Katee Robert. It wasn't my favorite but very readable. I am really enjoying the Threshold setting.

A slower paced book than I'm used to with Katee Robert, but the combination of a Selkie and Vampire was a fantastic combo. I had not read the first installment of the Threshold world but I did not feel as if I truly needed to to understand the book (but found myself checking it out from the library immediately post read). It was steamy, but not a whole lot of plot. a String of a plot to keep story pushing. Nothing wrong with that but just not what I had set out originally to read. Still would recommend for my steamy romantasy readers.

Blood on the Tide is the second book in Katee Robert’s Crimson Sails pirate-y romantasy series.

This book follows Lizzie, an icy bloodline vampire we met in the first book. Lizzie is seeking to reclaim her family’s stolen heirlooms. She needs help doing this and decides that Maeve, a selkie she and her allies rescue from captivity, would be the ideal candidate. Lizzie bargains with Maeve - if Maeve will guide her through the waters of Threshhold so she can find her stolen jewels, Lizzie will help Maeve find her pelt, which was also stolen. Maeve is desperate to get her pelt back and reluctantly agrees to this alliance.

Lizzie wasn’t an especially likable character in the first book so I enjoyed getting to see a different side of her in this one. I especially enjoyed her more vulnerable and protective moments as she finds herself attracted to and possibly falling in love with Maeve. She’s definitely a complex character, but I thought she and Maeve complimented each other well.

The romance is a bit of a slow burn, but there’s enough going on that I never got bored waiting for things to heat up. The only thing I felt the book was missing was the full cast of characters from the first book. I really enjoyed them and kept hoping they would turn up here.

I don’t know how many books are meant to be in this series, but I’m really enjoying Katee Robert’s brand of storytelling and hope that we’ll get more.

Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this ARC Copy!

Blood on the Tide is the sequel to Hunt on Dark Water and the story picks up right where it left off only with different POV. I enjoyed seeing things though the vampire Lizzie's POV, but she could also be insufferable at times, and completely different than she is portrayed in the first book of the series. Maeve the selkie was a much more pleasant character but she could be a bit whiney at times too.

All in all it was a short fun romantasy and I enjoyed every minute of it, and I will be continuing on with the series.

I didn't really enjoy the first book in this series, so honestly I'm not entirely sure why I picked up the second one -- hopefulness, I suppose? I'm glad I did, though, because I enjoyed this one a little more. The storytelling was much stronger. Still unsure if I'll continue with this series, though.