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The Legends of Nesher
Life has changed drastically for everyone since they first became stranded on Avigdor. Finding out that legends are not just fiction was startling enough. Now, just as Ethan and Annika are growing closer, Ethan is confronted face to face with a piece of his past that has reignited his need for revenge. How can he move forward when he feels completely adrift in the grief that haunts his past?
Annika can’t help but feel confused as to why Ethan is suddenly withdrawing but even with his persistent attempts to keep her at a distance, Annika is determined not to let Ethan drown in his thirst for revenge.
The crew finally make it to Lookonia but find their visit unfortunately cut painfully short.
Now, they find themselves in completely uncharted territory as the shores of Nesher lay before them. What secrets and ancient legends await them beyond its mysterious borders?
Will Annika and Ethan find a way back to one another or will they find themselves buried beneath the secrets of their pasts? Will they even survive long enough to try?
Annika can’t help but feel confused as to why Ethan is suddenly withdrawing but even with his persistent attempts to keep her at a distance, Annika is determined not to let Ethan drown in his thirst for revenge.
The crew finally make it to Lookonia but find their visit unfortunately cut painfully short.
Now, they find themselves in completely uncharted territory as the shores of Nesher lay before them. What secrets and ancient legends await them beyond its mysterious borders?
Will Annika and Ethan find a way back to one another or will they find themselves buried beneath the secrets of their pasts? Will they even survive long enough to try?
428 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 28, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
May 22, 2025
Oh my goodness, I NEED to know what happens next! I can't wait for book three...in fact, I need it to come out, like, yesterday. 😫😂
This was such an amazing second book in this series. It picks up right where book one left off, and is filled with so many new characters, adventures, twists, turns and reveals. Also, dinosaurs! I seriously just sped through the second half of the book because I was so caught up in the story. I did NOT expect some of the twists that were thrown at me, and I'm excited to see how those play out in the next book.
Ethan and Annika's romance was so sweet in this one. I already loved their budding relationship in book one, but it got even cuter and sweeter in this book. Again, I can NOT wait for the next book!
Like in Secrets of Avigdor, I also appreciated how central to the story faith in Elohim (God) is. There were some very relatable moments struggling with why He lets bad things happen, and then also some exciting faith moments also.
If you are looking for a clean, fun, adventurous story featuring wholesome and kind pirates, I highly recommend this series!
Content: non-graphic violence, death and dealing with grief, clean romance (non-descriptive kissing only)
This was such an amazing second book in this series. It picks up right where book one left off, and is filled with so many new characters, adventures, twists, turns and reveals. Also, dinosaurs! I seriously just sped through the second half of the book because I was so caught up in the story. I did NOT expect some of the twists that were thrown at me, and I'm excited to see how those play out in the next book.
Ethan and Annika's romance was so sweet in this one. I already loved their budding relationship in book one, but it got even cuter and sweeter in this book. Again, I can NOT wait for the next book!
Like in Secrets of Avigdor, I also appreciated how central to the story faith in Elohim (God) is. There were some very relatable moments struggling with why He lets bad things happen, and then also some exciting faith moments also.
If you are looking for a clean, fun, adventurous story featuring wholesome and kind pirates, I highly recommend this series!
Content: non-graphic violence, death and dealing with grief, clean romance (non-descriptive kissing only)
April 28, 2024
The Legends of Nesher is a Christian YA Fantasy novel and the second book in the Redemption Pirate series. This book follows the stories of Ethan, a Pirate Captain and Annika, a young woman who grew up in an orphanage.
I loved this second book! The first book left me wanting to know more about Annika and Ethan and it did not disappoint. This book was full of adventure, plot twists and unique world building! I loved the elements of faith, especially regarding Ethan's struggles with his past. I also loved how strong Annika is. The sword fighting scene between her and Ethan was my favorite. This story focuses mainly on plot but there is a continuation of the developing romance from the first book and it was perfection. The author proves that romance can be swoon-worthy without spice. The romance in this story reminds me of the innocence you see in the movie, The Princess Bride. Overall, this is a great adventure series!!
My favorite quote-- "His thoughts flew to Annika and a warmth settled in his heart, dispelling the anger. “I suppose that is true. Some people haven’t been affected by the cruel nature of this world. They are glimmers of light in the darkness"
I was given an electronic ARC for my honest review and opinion.
I loved this second book! The first book left me wanting to know more about Annika and Ethan and it did not disappoint. This book was full of adventure, plot twists and unique world building! I loved the elements of faith, especially regarding Ethan's struggles with his past. I also loved how strong Annika is. The sword fighting scene between her and Ethan was my favorite. This story focuses mainly on plot but there is a continuation of the developing romance from the first book and it was perfection. The author proves that romance can be swoon-worthy without spice. The romance in this story reminds me of the innocence you see in the movie, The Princess Bride. Overall, this is a great adventure series!!
My favorite quote-- "His thoughts flew to Annika and a warmth settled in his heart, dispelling the anger. “I suppose that is true. Some people haven’t been affected by the cruel nature of this world. They are glimmers of light in the darkness"
I was given an electronic ARC for my honest review and opinion.
June 3, 2024
If you read The Secrets of Avigdor and loved it, The Legends of Nesher will absolutely blow it out of the water! The story picks up right after the ending of book 1, and then it's off to more action and danger and dinosaurs!
Story: 5/5
Worldview: 5/5
In book 1, we are introduced to Annika as she and her friend, Carter, are traveling across the ocean to start a new life with Annika’s brother, Mathew. Book 2 picks up immediately after The Secrets of Avigdor, where Annika and Captain Ethan Wolf must part ways when they reach the kingdom of Lookonia. The plot was fast-paced and tense, with so many twists and turns that really surprised me! Throughout the story, Ethan comes to terms with his identity, and Annika struggles with fear and trusting God in the chaos. Of course, they end up at the kingdom of Nesher, but I can’t say much without spoilers. ;)
Worldview is 5/5 because I loved how Annika really had to surrender her future to God’s hands. After a traumatic event, she’s scared and confused, but she doesn’t let that make her bitter. Meanwhile, Ethan struggles with his bitterness towards God at allowing his father’s death to happen. I love how there was such a strong message of salvation and surrender, and I can’t wait to see how the characters’ new perspectives play out in the next book!
Story: 5/5
Worldview: 5/5
In book 1, we are introduced to Annika as she and her friend, Carter, are traveling across the ocean to start a new life with Annika’s brother, Mathew. Book 2 picks up immediately after The Secrets of Avigdor, where Annika and Captain Ethan Wolf must part ways when they reach the kingdom of Lookonia. The plot was fast-paced and tense, with so many twists and turns that really surprised me! Throughout the story, Ethan comes to terms with his identity, and Annika struggles with fear and trusting God in the chaos. Of course, they end up at the kingdom of Nesher, but I can’t say much without spoilers. ;)
Worldview is 5/5 because I loved how Annika really had to surrender her future to God’s hands. After a traumatic event, she’s scared and confused, but she doesn’t let that make her bitter. Meanwhile, Ethan struggles with his bitterness towards God at allowing his father’s death to happen. I love how there was such a strong message of salvation and surrender, and I can’t wait to see how the characters’ new perspectives play out in the next book!
January 25, 2026
I’m wrecked, and not sure how I can wait for book 3 to come out. Need time to process the masterpiece I just read AGH😭🤯
March 2, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Comment: I was given the opportunity to be an ARC reader for the re-release of this book. So, firstly, I am thankful for the chance.., but keep reading for my honest opinion.
Description: Life has changed drastically for everyone since they first became stranded on Avigdor. Finding out that legends are not just fiction was startling enough. Now, just as Ethan and Annika are growing closer, Ethan is confronted face to face with a piece of his past that has reignited his need for revenge. How can he move forward when he feels completely adrift in the grief that haunts his past?
Annika can’t help but feel confused as to why Ethan is suddenly withdrawing but even with his persistent attempts to keep her at a distance, Annika is determined not to let Ethan drown in his thirst for revenge.
The crew finally make it to Lookonia but find their visit unfortunately cut painfully short.
Now, they find themselves in completely uncharted territory as the shores of Nesher lay before them. What secrets and ancient legends await them beyond its mysterious borders?
Will Annika and Ethan find a way back to one another or will they find themselves buried beneath the secrets of their pasts? Will they even survive long enough to try?
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Comment: I loved the first book and was so looking forward to seeing how the story would unfold. The combination of prehistoric creatures, pirates, kingdoms, romance and faith was too tempting not be interested in this new development.
POV: Mostly we see a Dual POV (although, I will not say that there might be a sneak into someone else's perspective🤔🫠)
Tropes: adventure, friends to more, hidden secrets, redemption and more.
Genre: It can be considered a Christian Romantasy (Romantic Fantasy).
Likes: So, I definitely loved seeing Ethan and Annika's relationship develop the way it did 😍. The way Chaney writes their growing feelings towards each other and still keeps it squeaky clean is a true art form. The faith was always present (as it should be) and here we get to see more in depth the redemption of Ethan which was great and wholesome. BUT, what I loved the most and that I definitely didn't see it coming was the plot twist regarding Annika... and I'll just leave it at that... 👀
Dislikes: The only thing that I was not a fan of was the thorough descriptions. And hear me out. I know they are necessary and that it is great when the author paints the picture as clear as Chaney did... This is a matter of personal preference. I thought there was more descriptions on some occasions that I felt I didn't need and that derailed me a little from the main story..., but that's just a me thing.
Conclusion: I am so thankful for being and ARC to this great adventure, and I can't wait to see the finale to Ethan and Annika's future in "The Truth About Narine" .
Toodles and many blessings ⚘️
Comment: I was given the opportunity to be an ARC reader for the re-release of this book. So, firstly, I am thankful for the chance.., but keep reading for my honest opinion.
Description: Life has changed drastically for everyone since they first became stranded on Avigdor. Finding out that legends are not just fiction was startling enough. Now, just as Ethan and Annika are growing closer, Ethan is confronted face to face with a piece of his past that has reignited his need for revenge. How can he move forward when he feels completely adrift in the grief that haunts his past?
Annika can’t help but feel confused as to why Ethan is suddenly withdrawing but even with his persistent attempts to keep her at a distance, Annika is determined not to let Ethan drown in his thirst for revenge.
The crew finally make it to Lookonia but find their visit unfortunately cut painfully short.
Now, they find themselves in completely uncharted territory as the shores of Nesher lay before them. What secrets and ancient legends await them beyond its mysterious borders?
Will Annika and Ethan find a way back to one another or will they find themselves buried beneath the secrets of their pasts? Will they even survive long enough to try?
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Comment: I loved the first book and was so looking forward to seeing how the story would unfold. The combination of prehistoric creatures, pirates, kingdoms, romance and faith was too tempting not be interested in this new development.
POV: Mostly we see a Dual POV (although, I will not say that there might be a sneak into someone else's perspective🤔🫠)
Tropes: adventure, friends to more, hidden secrets, redemption and more.
Genre: It can be considered a Christian Romantasy (Romantic Fantasy).
Likes: So, I definitely loved seeing Ethan and Annika's relationship develop the way it did 😍. The way Chaney writes their growing feelings towards each other and still keeps it squeaky clean is a true art form. The faith was always present (as it should be) and here we get to see more in depth the redemption of Ethan which was great and wholesome. BUT, what I loved the most and that I definitely didn't see it coming was the plot twist regarding Annika... and I'll just leave it at that... 👀
Dislikes: The only thing that I was not a fan of was the thorough descriptions. And hear me out. I know they are necessary and that it is great when the author paints the picture as clear as Chaney did... This is a matter of personal preference. I thought there was more descriptions on some occasions that I felt I didn't need and that derailed me a little from the main story..., but that's just a me thing.
Conclusion: I am so thankful for being and ARC to this great adventure, and I can't wait to see the finale to Ethan and Annika's future in "The Truth About Narine" .
Toodles and many blessings ⚘️
October 28, 2025
⭐⭐⭐✨ (3.5/5 stars)
So glad to have finally read book two of The Pirates of Isla Nublar— as I have affectionately nicknamed it. After the sequel hook at the end of the first book in the series (read my review here), I knew that I had to read this second book. And I am very glad I did. The story continued, the twists and turns intensified, and we had even more dinosaurs. I really enjoyed picking up this non-magical fantasy sequel, and I can’t wait to talk about it today.
Let’s start out with the characters– because what’s better than characters? There were some new additions to the crew, and I was so excited to get to know them, and I might have a new favorite character from this series… but I don’t want to say too much, because I think that’s a spoiler. All of our original characters were still pretty much where we’d left off in the last book, which was nice to see. I do get tired of constantly losing whole years with my favorite characters between books, and this way, I got to carry on with Ethan and Annika where they left off, and that was fun.
As far as Ethan and Annika’s relationship went, I did miss the enemies-to-more banter that we got in the first book. I mean, I get that it wouldn’t really make sense to still have that in book two, but I still did miss that, and I didn’t love the emotional distance between our two characters. I hope to see them working together more in book three.
There was a certain element throughout the book that added a heaviness to the story… but then THAT EPILOGUE! I really don’t know how I’m going to wait to read the next installment. I can’t really say much about this because of spoilers, but let me just say I did not see that coming.
Really, this series is quite fun! I still did prefer the first book to the sequel, but this one was a worthy second installment to the Redemption Pirates series. I’m very curious where we go with the next story, especially with a couple of key discoveries that we reached toward the end of this story.
*internally begging Chaney Hobson to keep writing, because I desperately need to keep reading*
Content-wise, this book was still clean. More violence and action, but still about the same on romance, and I would still consider it clean for upper YA readers– especially anyone who enjoys the Jurassic Park or Pirates of the Caribbean series. Once again, the faith content in this one excelled what I expected, and overall left me very happy!
This book– as well as the previous one– are currently available on Kindle Unlimited (isn’t it lovely when that happens)? I hope that my review has helped you decide if this might be a new favorite read for you!
EMOJI REVIEW!
🏴☠ pirates (who are very robin hood-esq)
🌊 seafaring nautical adventure
🦖 lots more dinos!
⛪ faith content and redemption
🤫 lots of secrets
🌴 lush exotic settings
👑 royalty
📱available on kindle unlimited (sequel)
So glad to have finally read book two of The Pirates of Isla Nublar— as I have affectionately nicknamed it. After the sequel hook at the end of the first book in the series (read my review here), I knew that I had to read this second book. And I am very glad I did. The story continued, the twists and turns intensified, and we had even more dinosaurs. I really enjoyed picking up this non-magical fantasy sequel, and I can’t wait to talk about it today.
Let’s start out with the characters– because what’s better than characters? There were some new additions to the crew, and I was so excited to get to know them, and I might have a new favorite character from this series… but I don’t want to say too much, because I think that’s a spoiler. All of our original characters were still pretty much where we’d left off in the last book, which was nice to see. I do get tired of constantly losing whole years with my favorite characters between books, and this way, I got to carry on with Ethan and Annika where they left off, and that was fun.
As far as Ethan and Annika’s relationship went, I did miss the enemies-to-more banter that we got in the first book. I mean, I get that it wouldn’t really make sense to still have that in book two, but I still did miss that, and I didn’t love the emotional distance between our two characters. I hope to see them working together more in book three.
There was a certain element throughout the book that added a heaviness to the story… but then THAT EPILOGUE! I really don’t know how I’m going to wait to read the next installment. I can’t really say much about this because of spoilers, but let me just say I did not see that coming.
Really, this series is quite fun! I still did prefer the first book to the sequel, but this one was a worthy second installment to the Redemption Pirates series. I’m very curious where we go with the next story, especially with a couple of key discoveries that we reached toward the end of this story.
*internally begging Chaney Hobson to keep writing, because I desperately need to keep reading*
Content-wise, this book was still clean. More violence and action, but still about the same on romance, and I would still consider it clean for upper YA readers– especially anyone who enjoys the Jurassic Park or Pirates of the Caribbean series. Once again, the faith content in this one excelled what I expected, and overall left me very happy!
This book– as well as the previous one– are currently available on Kindle Unlimited (isn’t it lovely when that happens)? I hope that my review has helped you decide if this might be a new favorite read for you!
EMOJI REVIEW!
🏴☠ pirates (who are very robin hood-esq)
🌊 seafaring nautical adventure
🦖 lots more dinos!
⛪ faith content and redemption
🤫 lots of secrets
🌴 lush exotic settings
👑 royalty
📱available on kindle unlimited (sequel)
May 30, 2026
I have absolutely loved the first book in this series, The Secrets of Avigdor, and this second installment might even be better!
Like in the first book I loved the characters Annika and Ethan and even if it felt like Carter, Annika’s close friend, had a smaller role than in book 1, he’s definitely still a favorite of mine.
We also get to know Annika’s brother whom she hasn’t seen for a long time and their reunion really touched me. I just love sibling relationships and their bond was something special, not dimmed by distance or different life circumstances, but filled with love, respect and a deep connection.
The worldbuilding was as rich as in the first book and I could picture every scene vividly. It’s a fast paced story full of danger, action and - of course - dinosaurs.
But this story will also pull at your heartstrings and might make you cry once or twice…
While I have “complained” that the romance in book 1 was a bit too early/fast for my personal taste (I love the angst and yearning through the first books when a couple only gets together at the end of a series…) I have to admit that I thought Annika’s and Ethan’s romance to be absolutely adorable in this second book, so I might even take back my very small and very subjective criticism for book 1. ;)
I had the impression that the faith themes were even stronger in this one, since Annika, who had such a strong faith in book 1, starts to struggle after a traumatic event while Ethan, who was filled with bitterness and didn’t want anything to do with Elohim before, comes to terms with his identity and his past. So there’s a lot going on in terms of surrender, salvation, faith and forgiveness.
So if you’re looking for a clean Christian fantasy romance with pirates and dinosaurs, definitely pick up this series! Can’t wait for book 3!
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
Like in the first book I loved the characters Annika and Ethan and even if it felt like Carter, Annika’s close friend, had a smaller role than in book 1, he’s definitely still a favorite of mine.
We also get to know Annika’s brother whom she hasn’t seen for a long time and their reunion really touched me. I just love sibling relationships and their bond was something special, not dimmed by distance or different life circumstances, but filled with love, respect and a deep connection.
The worldbuilding was as rich as in the first book and I could picture every scene vividly. It’s a fast paced story full of danger, action and - of course - dinosaurs.
But this story will also pull at your heartstrings and might make you cry once or twice…
While I have “complained” that the romance in book 1 was a bit too early/fast for my personal taste (I love the angst and yearning through the first books when a couple only gets together at the end of a series…) I have to admit that I thought Annika’s and Ethan’s romance to be absolutely adorable in this second book, so I might even take back my very small and very subjective criticism for book 1. ;)
I had the impression that the faith themes were even stronger in this one, since Annika, who had such a strong faith in book 1, starts to struggle after a traumatic event while Ethan, who was filled with bitterness and didn’t want anything to do with Elohim before, comes to terms with his identity and his past. So there’s a lot going on in terms of surrender, salvation, faith and forgiveness.
So if you’re looking for a clean Christian fantasy romance with pirates and dinosaurs, definitely pick up this series! Can’t wait for book 3!
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
June 7, 2024
Wow! After the cliff hanger in the first book, I had to rush and read this one! I was on the edge of my seat reading this book. The adventure and intrigue was written in so well. I felt the suspense, worries, and emotions of the characters. I was embarrassed for them, I laughed with them, and I praised God (Elohim in the story) with them. Is it weird to praise God for fictional stories? Probably, but I praise God for the reminders of my own faith journey reflected in the words. 😄
Annika and Ethan were enemies in the first book but were more friends in this one, which is why I use frenemies-to-lovers to describe them here. While the first book was really about Annika finding herself, this book focused on Ethan’s story and his grief from his past. It was a beautiful story of healing and redemption! That isn’t to say that Annika didn’t have her own growth in the story. I can’t say more without spoilers so I’ll leave it at that! 😉
I would definitely recommend reading the first book first has it gives a lot of context for this story. I definitely recommend this series as it is very clean and even would be a good read for your teenagers! A great YA Christian Fantasy!
Content Warnings:
Language: None
Spice: Kissing and appropriate contact only
TW: Persecution/Massacre, death/murder, violence all non-graphic
Annika and Ethan were enemies in the first book but were more friends in this one, which is why I use frenemies-to-lovers to describe them here. While the first book was really about Annika finding herself, this book focused on Ethan’s story and his grief from his past. It was a beautiful story of healing and redemption! That isn’t to say that Annika didn’t have her own growth in the story. I can’t say more without spoilers so I’ll leave it at that! 😉
I would definitely recommend reading the first book first has it gives a lot of context for this story. I definitely recommend this series as it is very clean and even would be a good read for your teenagers! A great YA Christian Fantasy!
Content Warnings:
Language: None
Spice: Kissing and appropriate contact only
TW: Persecution/Massacre, death/murder, violence all non-graphic
March 24, 2026
ARC review: 5+ ⭐️ I was so excited for this book after the first one, and it did not disappoint! This book did a great job of refreshing my memory of past events without feeling forced. The redemption arc and faith themes were so genuine and well done. Pirates and dinosaurs is such a great mash-up, and Chaney Hobson does a great job of making sure it’s not cheesey. There were so many twists. This book left me on a cliff hanger anxiously awaiting book 3, but also answered a lot of questions. The romance was so slow burn but so worth it to fiiiiinaaaaalyyyyy get that kiss at the end of this book. No language; sweet kisses only romance. I 10/10 recommend this book re-releasing TOMORROW!! Thank you, @chaneyhobson_author for allowing me to read and review your book! ❤️
June 17, 2024
What an interesting read this series has been! The story telling skills are fantastic!
Getting to see more Ancients and people was exciting.
Fascinating mystery that pulls you in and makes it hard to put down.
Can't wait for the next book!
Content: Christian Fantasy
Intimacy - Mild (hand holding, stares, hugs, touching foreheads, low descript kiss)
Language - None
Violence - High (town destruction, plots to kill and torture, death, fires, battles)
Getting to see more Ancients and people was exciting.
Fascinating mystery that pulls you in and makes it hard to put down.
Can't wait for the next book!
Content: Christian Fantasy
Intimacy - Mild (hand holding, stares, hugs, touching foreheads, low descript kiss)
Language - None
Violence - High (town destruction, plots to kill and torture, death, fires, battles)
March 22, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. There were more dinosaurs scenes which I throughly enjoyed. The plot and conflict was good and I love that we got to see how each of the characters grew and change. I love how you think there would be no more secrets, more show up and it good!
May 31, 2024
Amazing work was put into this book series. The legends of Nesher was just as good as the first book if not better. Plenty of action, clean romance and dinosuars. =)
May 29, 2024
Chaney Hobson has done a great job with the second book in this series. Full of action, adventure, love, faith, and even a little mystery, the Legends of Nesher did not disappoint. Whether you're 15 or 50, I highly recommend this series and can't wait to see where the story goes next.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews