I read this book first as it's the prequel and wasn't let down. I've always liked the swashbuckling pirate movies and this story had it all. The rape and torture that Malik went through at the hands of Shuaid was incredible. The humiliation at being cast aside by Shuaib was tough but he gained the respect of Nasir who took him on as a crew member when he got his own ship. The characters are beautifully fleshed out and Malik's emotions jumped off the pages. This is a savage romance so if rape and torture bother you, pass up this book. ( )