I enjoyed this story very much. The characters were wonderful. Dunya’s character arc has become one of my favorites of all time. Amina’s ragtag group of middle-aged pirates with a thirst for treasure are such a delight. The world is interesting, if confusing. Most of all, I enjoyed the concept of a retired pirate whose strongest ambition is to care for her daughter off again on one last adventure. And the narrator is such a wonderful character. I adore him. This book had so, so much going for it.

However, I had a few issues with this story as well. This book is supposed to be about a badass, fearless woman who fights for her ambitions and doesn’t let a man hold her back or tell her what to do. And yet, several times throughout this book, Amina is backed into a corner and is-gasp-saved by a man! Amina’s concept was so strong, but she quickly became another damsel in distress stereotype that would not be where she is today without the involvement of men. Additionally, this book was heavily, heavily religious. I don’t mind if a fictional character has a religion, but I would prefer to not have to read the same “praise be to God” drivel every other paragraph.