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The Willowbane Saga #2

To Sail the Sapphire Sea

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In the heart of the sea, an unforgiving entity dwells around a glowing blue stone—hoarding the spirit of greed.

With the power of the emerald and support of her mate, Ellya is healing from the atrocities she faced, but nothing could blot out her need for vengeance. Not histories of false gods and bargains with the Fates. Not a vision hinting at the elusive fifth gem creator. Not even the burden of saving magic can shift Ellya’s target.

Along the journey, Ellya and her mate contend with hurdles they don’t anticipate. Dark creatures that want to eat their hearts. Precariously commandeering a magical pirate ship. And a reunion that shakes everything they thought they knew.

The epic quest of THE WILLOWBANE SAGA officially starts here with Ellya, her mate, and more questionable characters in a race of wills to find the clasp where the world was made. Let the great game begin.

Paperback

Published August 18, 2025

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About the author

Lindsey Willingham

3 books75 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Laini Anthony.
104 reviews16 followers
February 22, 2025
I don’t know how Lindsey wrote another banger of a book, but I SURE AM GLAD SHE DIDDDDDDD. The emotional toll this book put me through, I damn near started smoking cigarettes. Ellya’s character growth from book one is such a joy to read. The amount of action & spice was just what book 2 needed. The world building has me feral for more of this story
Profile Image for Cherie Williams.
163 reviews1 follower
June 6, 2025
This books picks up right where we left off in book 1 making it so easy to jump right back into the world and the characters which I love!

Also similar to book 1 there is a lot of focus on trauma recovery, building relationships, and inner reflection. I really appreciate how Lindsey doesn’t just write about mates who are “perfect”, but two people who love each other and are committed to working on each other and themselves!

The plot is also action packed as well. We can go from a meaningful conversation to heart pounding action in a second! We get a lot of information about the quest in the first 40% but it’s broken up nicely with action or spice 🤣

I really enjoyed getting to know a few more characters, too! The ending genuinely surprised me and I am so curious to see how this will all play out in book 3!!

💭”She has always been mine. There has never been a length I would not go to for her safety, her happiness. That need to protect has only increased in the days since she claimed me, and I her. My necessity for Ellya has grown far beyond the need to protect, but to own, to possess. “Will you burn the world with me?“
Profile Image for The Bookish Damsel.
99 reviews
July 14, 2025
Thank you to the author, Lindsey Willingham for this ARC!

Lindsey’s writing is both poetic and brilliant, adding a lyrical quality to the story that makes it a joy to read.

Book 2 picks up right where the first left off, continuing Ellya and Alec’s evolving relationship as they journey across the sea and face Alec’s twin brother, Locane, whose presence adds tension and complexity to the narrative.

While the plot in this second installment isn’t quite as tight or compelling as in Book 1, the book still delivers in all the ways that matter. The author’s poetic writing, emotional depth, and strong character development more than make up for it.

The introduction of new characters adds depth, and intrigue to the story. The journey they all embark on is filled with unexpected challenges, shifting alliances, emotional twists, and moments of vulnerability that make the characters feel real and relatable.
Profile Image for E C.
77 reviews4 followers
June 22, 2025
I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy of To Sail the Sapphire Sea. The sequel doesn’t miss a beat. The story picks up where the last book left off. I would go so far as to say this book is EVEN better than To Scale the Emerald Mountain. Enough new characters and plot points to keep things interesting but a lot of the characters transfer over and that helps keep things slightly easier to follow. Overall the book has a nice mix of genuinely good story and some steam. Solid romantasy read.
Profile Image for ♡ Nicole ♡ (ThroneOfSnark).
199 reviews3 followers
June 24, 2025
The Willowbane Saga officially sets sail in this book, and I am fully, obsessively on board.

To Sail the Sapphire Sea drops us right back into the world where book one left off, and the stakes only get more intense. Ellya and Alec’s journey is darker, deeper, and way more dangerous, but what I love is that it never sacrifices the emotional core: healing, growth, and real character work. These two aren’t perfect fated mates, they’re choosing each other, working through trauma, and learning as they go, and it makes me care so much more.

The plot? A perfect blend of action, lore, and emotional gut punches. There’s a LOT of world-building in this one, but it doesn’t get overwhelming. Instead, it gives the story weight, especially as we dig deeper into Ellya’s family history and the horrors that come with it. It’s heavy, it’s harrowing, and I was seething (someone hand me Ellya’s grandma, I’ve got words). And the characters? The crew dynamic is only getting better! Ceivise especially stole the show for me. She’s fierce, complex, and her alliances add so much tension. There’s also an animal companion I absolutely ADORE (Lonny 4 life 🐍), intense foreshadowing, and a villain I can’t wait to see more of.

Spice? Lindsey is becoming one of my favorite spicy fantasy authors: hot, emotional, and always earned.

Book 2 does exactly what a sequel should: expands the world, raises the stakes, and makes you desperate for the next one. Bring on book 3! I need more serpent puppy, more morally grey insanity, and someone to finally take granny DOWN.

Thank you for the ARC!
Profile Image for Kasey.
27 reviews
May 23, 2025
This is just what a second book in a series needs to be.

The depth and intricacy that Lindsey goes into with her characters, plot, world building, scenery and just the whole story in general is nothing like I've ever read before.

I absolutely adored this book. There were scenes that were intense, TERRIFYING, hot AF 🥵, funny, sad and swoon worthy.

I am so honoured to be part of the Willowbane Sagas journey and I cannot wait to see where it goes next.

Some of my favourite quotes:

"What I witness now is the epitome of passion, the burning energy of an epic love that would incinerate the world at the simple behest of the other"

"Not even death could keep me from you, Ellya. I will always find you again,"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lacey.
252 reviews9 followers
June 7, 2025
4.25 ⭐️

Thank you so much Lindsey for my arc copy of your book!

As always Lindsey’s prose is so beautiful. The first half of the book was very slow for me but we see lots of action in the second half!

Some highlights:
✨ Animal companion done well - I love Lonny! This was a truly well done animal companion and a unique way of executing that. He had a clear purpose and meeting him was a trip.
✨ Foreshadowing on point
✨ Ellya has matured, A LOT. I like her more in this book than in book one, her arc is great.
✨ Exploration of addiction done beautifully

Looking forward to going on another adventure with Alec & Ellya in the future
Profile Image for Blanca Sirikul.
159 reviews
July 14, 2025
✨️To Sail the Sapphire Sea by Lindsey Willingham✨️

🌟🌟🌟🌟

I am honored to have been chosen to be an ARC reader for this series! I can't say much since it has not been realseased yet.

Just know that Lorcane is still up to no good, and our Ellya will always have our hearts.

Solid 4 🌟s with TONS of action and betrayal!

✨️What to Expect✨️

●Magic
●Betrayal
●Dark Fantasy
●EPIC Adventures
Profile Image for kt.
44 reviews4 followers
March 30, 2025
The Willowbane Saga is one of my favorite series. I can't believe I'm saying this, but I liked To Sail the Sapphire Sea even MORE than To Scale the Emerald Mountain.

Character-wise, everyone has grown and their depth has increased. I loved Elly in the first book because she is young, imperfect, and navigating a recent trauma (kidnapping, emotional abuse, mind control, and SA are PRETTY major if you ask me).

In To Scale the Sapphire Sea, Elly has matured and really leaned into the partnership of her fated mate. They are equals in every way (think Feyre and Rhys), and tbh I think she is going to be more powerful than he is. Her fated mate is a feminist KING who knows the strength of his partner. He knows that she is more than capable of protecting herself and doesn't interfere when she is sparring or battling anyone.

I love them because now that they have accepted one another, they are TOGETHER. I hate when couples are on and off. There are so many bigger things at play in a high fantasy book, and I want the stress to come from ANYTHING but the relationship.

I love the nautical vibes, also. Ceivise and Kino are EVERYTHING. A pirate captain (a LADY PIRATE CAPTAIN) and her first mate (also a baddie) and closest friend help Ellya and her mate (I'm not saying his name in case you haven't read the first one) navigate the perilous Sapphire Sea to find the precious gemstone. They encounter mermaids, but not the cutesy Peter Pan kind. The horrifying Harry Potter kind. The kind that try to capsize your ship and force you into a whirlpool. There's also a giant squid. At one point there is a ZOMBIE MERMAID. The scene with the zombie mermaid haunts me in the best way possible. The imagery is done amazingly.

This book speaks to me on a spiritual level. As a lover of all things nautical, mythical, mysterious, and complex, this book is a 5-star read for me.

If you like the world-building, story arcs across multiple books, and imperfect characters of TOG, and if you like the magical nautical themes of the Ever King and Pirates of the Caribbean, this book is for you. Can't wait for the 3rd!
Profile Image for Ally | book_dragon89.
129 reviews10 followers
February 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️

I had the privilege of being a Beta reader for this book! My review and opinion are my honest thoughts and feelings!

Wow. To say I love this book would be an understatement. I am obsessed with this brilliant world and utterly lovable and real characters Lindsey has created. The Willowbane Saga has quickly become an all time favorite series, and I am so excited for the rest of the books!

In the first book we lived through some serious trauma with Ellya, and went through a painful but very necessary healing process with her. I saw so much of Ellya’s growth in this book, she has come back strong and is continuing to grow as a person, and I’m so proud of her!!! Alec is also growing and learning from mistakes past and present, and I think will still have some repressed feelings to work through still to come! Their relationship is my favorite ever. The way they interact with each other, working hard on good communication and growing not only as individuals but as a couple had me both tearing up and grinning big at times. And their chemistry….PHEW 🔥🥵 I hope you’re ready!

The epic quest for the gems has really ramped up, and this book was action packed from chapter 1!! I ignored so many responsibilities and lost sleep simply because I could not stop reading! I love the new POV, and I loved the new characters. I have some new favorite friends! 🥹

The plot is so unique and intricate, this is unlike anything else I’ve read! There is a perfect balance between learning new information through stories and dialogue. I found it easy to follow and very interesting to read, I was never bored! There were several plot twists and surprises and very intense scenes….and the ending!! I’m salivating for the next book already!
Profile Image for Princess Izzy.
190 reviews
February 15, 2025
🌊 To Sail The Sapphire Sea 🌊
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“What I witness now is the epitome of passion, the burning energy of an epic love that would incinerate the world at the simple behest of the other.”

“I love you because of who you are. You are resilient and loving and you challenge me and you are so fucking brilliant that sometimes I struggle to believe that you are real.”

This is an ARC review and this book releases August 18th.

*SPOILER FREE*
This is the second book in the Willowbane Saga, a series of dark epic fantasy romances. Ellya is leaving the kingdoms and venturing across the sea to Bokhaii to search for answers about the next gem, her lineage and new found powers. This has fated mates trope, meddling gods, sibling rivalry, Faes and pirates.

Now you all know the chokehold that TSTEM had me in last year and I was beside myself with excitement to get the opportunity to beta read the second book. GUYS, no second book curse here, so many reveals, so much background and more in depth character development, perfect spice, DIRTY TALKING MMC, all the lore and world building. I am fucking obsessed with this series and need everyone to be reading this and talking about it. You will hear me ranting about this for the whole of the year until release day and honestly think this is such an underrated series, this is as good as it gets and I just think this is what fantasy is all about. Honestly can’t stress enough that this rivals all the big romantasies out there and feel it’s criminal that we aren’t all reading and falling in love with these.
Profile Image for Flossythebooktroll.
124 reviews
June 19, 2025
ARC Review - Willowbane Saga Part 2 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The great game has begun! The world is expanding, and we visit new lands. The writing is beautiful and descriptive. Ellya and Alec, fresh from their mating bond, start to learn more about the God's and the Fates, their secrets and intentions, and their role in creating the stones.

Ellya learns about her family/heritage and is continuing to process the events and trauma of Book 1. This book focuses more on Alec and his struggles and triggers. Make no mistake. These characters are deep, real, and not perfect. I love the mental health rep in these books. "We will be better" 🥹❤️‍🔥

I loved the multiple POVs with more of Locane in the mix this time. We meet a female badass pirate ☠️ called Ceivise. I just loved her so much! And my favourite new addition to the quest family... Lonny!! My hate for Raleigh is feral 🤬.

There are battles at sea and on land, and 'that showdown' we knew was coming after the events of Book 1. Will our protagonists have to join with the enemy to find and complete the quest? 👀

Now let's talk spice, which is taken up a notch in this book. I love that the mating bond is its own entity. It is feral and bratty when it doesn't get its own way 😈. Sapphire beach s*x was particularly 🌶. But my favourite was Alec using mind control to tie her down and while f**cking her says "Yes Ellya, I am your God" 🥵💦🌶

This book will be released on August 18th. Book 1, To Scale the Emerald Mountain is available now on #kindleunlimited. Join the quest! You won't regret it 💙💚

I can't wait for Book 3.
Profile Image for Alex.
4 reviews
August 18, 2025
"In the heart of the sea, an unforgiving entity dwells around a glowing blue stone- hoarding the spirit of greed. Let the great game begin."

First of all, I want to congratulate Lindsey on another stunning addition to the Willowbane saga! I was graciously gifted an ARC of her story, and I could not be more grateful.

TSTSS picks up just after TSTEM, with our two main characters meeting Dhystros, the god that created the emerald. We then follow the quest Ellya and Alec are sent on to find the remaining gems. TSTSS focuses on deeply understanding and knowing our characters. We get more backstories on those that were possibly glimpsed over in the first book, and we learn more about the characters that we already know and love. Alongside it, we are given an action packed, intricate, epic quest with two sides facing the same objective. A treasure hunt. Oh, and don't forget the smut that is sprinkled throughout the story. I did find some of the smut felt a bit misplaced, or even egregious at times. But, that isn't to say it's not well-received.

While I enjoyed this fantastic read, there were some things I could have done to understand it better. 1. I should have reread TSTEM because there is so much information in Lindsey's books, and I definitely had to look at my previous annotations. 2. I think I would have understood more if I waited until the physical copy was in my hands. I love her detail, and I enjoy annotating, so I can easily refer back to previous notes. Reading this on the Kindle was a bit more difficult for me, and that goes for a lot of fantasy books I read.

Again, thank you to Lindsey for selecting me to receive an ARC of To Sail the Sapphire Sea, and I cannot wait to see what is in store for these characters!!!
Profile Image for Amanda Sheehan.
13 reviews
May 29, 2025
Overall Book Rating - 5 ⭐️!
Overall Spice Rating - 4 🌶️
To Sail the Sapphire Sea was absolutely fantastic!

I was lucky enough to get an ARC of To Sail The Sapphire Sea!

It had twists, turns, and surprises. It has pirates, syrens, and conniving villains with their sidekicks. The world building is woven throughout the story with some huge lore drops that pulls you deeper into the story. The main characters are caught in the webs of fate and the bargain’s made far before the their story starts. The magic is entire entirely unique and adds such a different spin on fated mates and magical gems.

Spoilers!

Ellya is still healing from her traumatic betrayal at the hands of Alec’s twin Locane, who is caught in a mind-altering self quest to find the legendary gems made from the gods themselves, but Alec has his own issues and demons coming back to haunt him from the past. The gods are bound from spilling their secrets, and Ellya and Alec not only have to figure out how to interpret their vague clues, but dodge Locane plans and find the sapphire before him. All among the new backdrop of the Sapphire sea and other new locations.

I loved thier new pet, Lonny. Learning more about Cevise, Kino, and Kraeston, and wanted to stab Raleigh who’s leaning heavily into her villian arc and causing some serious issues for Alec and Ellya. (Cause they don’t have enough) and Locane made me want to wring his neck… the entire time.

Lindsay is a fantastic author!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Katelynn | booksareadoorway.
370 reviews18 followers
July 16, 2025
“I would sacrifice everything and everyone for you. I would burn the world to cinders to keep you all for myself.”

Lindsey Willingham has once again written an epic dark fantasy story. The plot is unique, the characters are flawed & feel realistic (you’re not always going to like the main characters just like you don’t always like real people), and the world building is done effortlessly. The prose she uses is descriptive yet lyrical. The story is complex, but it feels magical as the pieces start to come together as the story progresses.

“You two are going to have to learn that the world does continue to exist outside of yourselves and your intensity.”

Alec & Ellya continue to keep my heart in a chokehold. They are both extremely flawed and full of emotional trauma that they have to overcome. Their relationship isn’t always sunshine & butterflies, and I love getting to see them talk things through to overcome their challenges. Their chemistry is palpable. The intimate scenes between them will have you fanning yourself & squirming in your seat.

The side characters are a unique group of people that you never truly know if you can trust them or not. Other than my boy Kraeston. He’s an angel baby and I’m his biggest fan. I can’t wait to see where these characters go in future installments.

“It is done. Your Fates are intertwined.”

If you’re a dark fantasy reader and you haven’t picked up the Willowbane Saga. what are you waiting for? Go!
Profile Image for Mayra.
59 reviews1 follower
March 11, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5

I had the pleasure of reading a beta version of To Sail the Sapphire Sea by Lindsey, and let me tell you — this book is an absolute ride. As the second installment in her series, it not only builds on the foundation laid in the first book but elevates the stakes to a whole new level. While the beginning starts off a bit slow and takes some time to find its rhythm, once the story hits its stride, it becomes completely addictive — especially in the last 40%, which I practically devoured in one sitting.

Lindsey’s world-building is nothing short of spectacular. The settings are lush and vivid, transporting you to stunning, dangerous, and magical places. The sense of adventure is palpable — from treacherous sea voyages to intense action-packed battles, the story is full of twists and turns that keep you on edge. The action scenes are dynamic and cinematic, making you feel like you’re right there in the middle of the chaos.

But what really sets this book apart is the emotional depth. There are moments that are truly heart-wrenching — the kind that make you pause and take a breath. And yet, the story balances these heavier moments with humor and warmth. The witty banter between the characters adds levity, making them feel real and relatable even in the midst of all the danger.

And let’s talk about the romance — because wow. The chemistry between the characters is off the charts, and the smut is incredible. The kinkiness builds steadily throughout the book, creating a delicious tension that keeps you hooked. Lindsey knows exactly when to turn up the heat, and the payoff is absolutely worth it.

Despite the slower start, To Sail the Sapphire Sea delivers everything you could want in a romantic fantasy adventure: high-stakes action, deep emotional moments, and some seriously steamy scenes. Lindsey has outdone herself with this sequel, and I can’t wait to see where she takes the story next. If you loved the first book, this one will blow you away.
Profile Image for Jessica.
265 reviews2 followers
September 1, 2025
Intricate fantasy plot ✔️
Amazing level of world building ✔️
Deeper levels of connections in relationships ✔️
Moments that will make you gasp ✔️
Excellent spice ✔️✔️
Poetic and descriptive writing ✔️

To Sail the Sapphire Sea is book two of the Willowbane Saga and you absolutely need to read the first one to understand what’s going on (and you should because it’s EXCELLENT). Our main characters’ journey continues in their quest to retrieve some magical items in their pursuit of saving the world and we get to collect a few more characters along the way.

I love that both our FMC and MMC are pretty morally gray and definitely have their share of flaws and imperfections. It makes things more interesting for sure. Both of these characters have gone through some tragic things (a lot of our fmc’s trauma is found in book one) and it really does affect their actions and decisions. And even though we’ve had these characters for two lengthy books now, there’s obviously still a lot we don’t know about them. I’m hoping in the future books in this series we get a little time with them where they’re not fighting for their life and can just breathe a little bit!
Profile Image for Cye’s Book Nook.
85 reviews1 follower
June 30, 2025
⭐ ARC Review ⭐

Wow — this book absolutely blew me away. I didn’t think it was possible to top the first one (which I adored), but somehow this sequel raises the bar even higher. Without a doubt, a 6-star read for me!

If you’re a fan of ACOWAR or Onyx Storm, you’re going to fall hard for this one. It’s already secured a spot in my Top 5 Reads of 2025.

The world-building is rich and immersive, and I was completely swept up in it. Ellya and Alec’s relationship? Obsessed. Their dynamic has grown into one of my favorite fictional couples — tender, intense, and beautifully written. I also deeply connected with Ellya’s journey of self-discovery; watching her find her voice and place in the world was so satisfying.

And while I despise Locane, getting his POV chapters was such a compelling addition. He’s the kind of villain you love to hate — layered, intriguing, and just maybe on the cusp of redemption? 👀

I’ll be ordering a physical copy the second it drops in August, and I’m already counting down the days. If you haven’t added this to your TBR yet… what are you doing?! You need this book on your radar.
Profile Image for Tiffany.
102 reviews1 follower
August 2, 2025
What a great second entry in the Willowbane Saga. This book picks up right where book 1 left off. We really get to explore more of Ellya and Alec’s relationship and struggles. Alec remains one of my favorite fantasy MMC’s. He has so many swoon worthy moments and is just so utterly devoted to Ellya. I love the willingness to work on their relationship that these two have. It’s not perfect, even though they are mates.

I think one of my favorite things about this series in general is its willingness to explore the darkness about what happened to Ellya. There is no glossing over what happened and it’s something that sticks with both Ellya and Alec as they navigate their relationship.

This book had a solid plot that builds on the story from the first book. There are lots of great story beats that will keep you turning pages. I loved Ellya’s friendship that is budding with Ceivise. She became one of my new favorites in this book.

Overall, this was a really solid second entry in this series. The ending was crazy and I cannot wait to see where book 3 takes us.
Profile Image for Jordan.
8 reviews
August 18, 2025
This series is only 2/5 of the way done, and I already know it’s going to be one of my favorites ever. Lindsey’s mind amazes me so much! She puts so much love and vulnerability into these characters and it makes them so realistic. The first book in this series was more focused on introducing the characters and spent less time building the world, but this book gives us both in a wonderful mixture. Every bit of information we’re given is vital, even if it doesn’t seem like it at the time. I would compare the attention to detail to Throne of Glass. That being said, I haven’t ever read anything quite like Willowbane. The magic system is so intriguing and the world itself is so impressive. While there is definitely more action and adventure in this installment of Willowbane, there is also some delightful spice that is strategically placed to relieve from a bit of the heavier bits of the plot. I would highly recommend this series, but beware of the trigger warnings, as they exist in both novels thus far! Happy reading!
Profile Image for kelseys.inthelibrary.
194 reviews11 followers
May 24, 2025
The second book in the Willowbane Saga does not mess around. Nonstop action, spice and quests. Lindsey has officially claimed the title of Queen of Spice and high fantasy🌶️ This book gave me:
•Fated mates
•Twin brothers
•Lost gods (?)and ancient magic
•Fae Realms, sirens, pirates, and beasties
•A deep-dive quest for the sapphire stone
•A 🌶️ scene so intense it gave Cassian’s “PYHOTH” moment a run for its money. (IYKYK)

Add in the emotional weight of drug addiction, a heart-pounding cliffhanger, and world-building so rich you’ll swear you need a map - I am not okay. The action hits like a rogue wave! Delicious. Emotional. Absolutely unhinged (in the best way).

I’m feral. I’m unwell. And I will be camping in Lindsey's DMs until book 3.

Final verdict: 5 stars, 17 emotional support snacks, and one ruined sleep schedule.
Profile Image for Lauren Sexton.
188 reviews10 followers
June 30, 2025
What a wild ride! To Sail the Sapphire Sea picks up where book 1 left off. There is a lot of traveling and adventure in book 2, which keeps it interesting!

I love Ellya’s growth in book 2. She is getting stronger and is learning more about her powers. She’s becoming a pretty kick ass fmc! 💪🏼 💕

What I would change to make it a 5⭐️ read? The length… this book was pretty lengthy. I felt like some scenes drug on a bit, and could’ve been shortened a bit. Also, I did get really confused a few times on characters…. The names got confusing and I probably should’ve done a reread of book 1 before jumping into book 2 as a refresher! 🙊😬

Overall- I love this series! Cool magic system, high stakes adventures, lots of good romance!

Thank you Lindsey Willingham for graciously allowing me to be a part of your arc team again! 🫶🏻💕
Profile Image for amie lichtenstein.
5 reviews
July 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I was so excited to receive an ARC of this book and I can’t say enough good things but I will try without spoiling. I was worried I wouldn’t be as in love as book 1 but wow was I wrong. This just kept going and getting better. The plot expanded in a way that was both interesting but easy to absorb. The story was the focus and the romance was the subplot which I enjoyed. I love that the characters are imperfect, they do things that make you question them but love them at the same time. Their growth and development with the growth of the plot went so perfectly together. I knew I was going to be left needing book 3 but wow the ending sent me! I once again tossed my kindle because how could it end like that! Please read this!
Profile Image for Jan.
88 reviews
July 30, 2025
Book 2 in the Willowbane saga!

Thoughts:
✨starts where we left off in book 1 with continuous world building
✨our FMC’s growth was so nice to see
✨slow start but then lots of action
✨overall beautiful writing
✨loved having the multi-POV
✨Lonny!! Fantastic animal side character
Profile Image for Molly McLain.
77 reviews2 followers
dnf
October 6, 2025
I’m sorry, but out of all the books out there in publication, this one is not worth my time. I just couldn’t get past the “mating bond throbbing” and the sex scenes on every other page. I loved the first book, but this one just didn’t live up to the first.
Profile Image for Sabrina Nilsson.
34 reviews5 followers
August 19, 2025
I had the glorious privilege of reading an early version of this book, and even in its early form, it was amazing!! Way to write a sequel, Lindsey!
Profile Image for Maci Hazel.
136 reviews2 followers
August 28, 2025
3.5, rounded up for goodreads!

I want to thank Lindsey for the opportunity to Beta read, then ARC read the finished product! Also, she’s become a friend and is the best.

I don’t quite enjoy this one as much as book 1, but that is just a personal taste thing! I wanted more plot and lore in this book, and while we did get that, I still wanted MORE. The romance is great, but the intensity and frequency of ~those~ scenes just aren’t my personal cup of tea.

I think Lindsey’s world is so cool and she’s really onto something! Can’t wait to see what the next installment is like.
Profile Image for Whitley Medina.
114 reviews2 followers
August 11, 2025
4.5 stars!

I had the pleasure of receiving this ARC and let me tell you guys about this! This book picks up right where we left off and the adventure is adventuring.

There is more character development for the main characters and the some side characters that I really appreciated to get more depth in the story. The plot was plotting and I can’t wait to see where the story goes in book 3!
Profile Image for Jasmine Brown.
76 reviews1 follower
May 24, 2025
🌊 TO SAIL THE SAPPHIRE SEA 🌊

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥

When Lindsey reached out and asked if I wanted to Beta read TSTSS I immediately said yes, with absolutely no reservations. Her debut novel, To Scale The Emerald Mountain, was my very first ARC opportunity and blew me away!

To Sail The Sapphire Sea picked up right where the first book left off, literally, the same scene, making it so so easy to dive back into that world. There was more world building, breaking through trauma and beginning to trust again, finally being able to be with the one you love with your whole being, self discovery, healing, and oh so many spicy scenes.

The first 40% or so was a little slow, but to be expected as they’re navigating their next adventure, planning and unlocking hidden truths about the gems of the gods. But man, when I tell you that the action picked up, and swept me away, I truly felt like I was there. Enduring all of the gut wrenching truths and nitty grittiness that Lindsey poured into this book.

Ellya, our FMC is so relatable, and wholly imperfect. She embraces all that she is and understands her faults, acknowledges them, and tries to become a better version of herself not only for her, but for her significant other! The yearning, the desire, the passion, the unconditional love, whew… it was so beautiful and HOOOTTTTT 🥵🥵

Lindsey’s writing is so poetic, lyrical, and just all around beautiful. I am always in awe of how she comes up with what she does! The ending left me immediately wanting more, because how can you END IT THERE?!

Thank you Lindsey for this incredible opportunity, and continuing to trust us with your babies, your masterpieces. It is truly such an honor! 🤍
Profile Image for Suzanne.
84 reviews9 followers
December 20, 2025
I loved being back in this world. This book was fantastic. As if there was any doubt.
While book 1 focused more on the romance, here we really delve more into the fantasy and the world Lindsey created.
But don't worry - there is still plenty of romance! My favorite depiction of fated mates remains true in this one. There's nothing like these 2 🥰

Pirates, meddling gods, sibling rivalry, an absolutely epic quest, an animal sidekick - this book has it all and more. There is even a card game in here that I wish I could play in real life!

Seeing our girl Ellya after the events of book 1 be the person she is and it's only book 2?! I just know when it's all said and done - she'll be a top FMC.

But our MMC?! I LOVE HIM AND I'LL FIGHT YOU FOR HIM 🤺
And I don't want to keep him or our love a secret any longer so read book 1 so you know why I haven't said his name yet!!
He's PERFECT 😍🥰🧎‍♀️

And that mouth of his? 🥵
“Open your fxck!ng mouth and face forward.”
The spice be SPICIN 🌶

In case it wasn't clear - I loveddd this. Just as I loved the first one. And I'm sure all the rest to come!
Go drop what you're doing and read it! 🖤
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