Book Review: The Last Atlantean by Emily Hayse

Originally posted on Goodreads in July 2021

About this book:

“Watch, ye sons of the sea, your doom is at hand. With soundless storm rises the fate of Atlantis.”

As a lighthouse keeper’s daughter, Hattie has always been able to handle anything the Atlantic throws at her. But when a stranger washes ashore in a storm, she finds herself unraveling a mystery that will change her life.

Caught up in a high-stakes game of intrigue and hidden loyalties, Hattie watches legends take shape before her eyes. But as kings and pawns prepare for a showdown that will determine the fate of an ancient world, she wonders whether she has thrown in her lot with the hero or the villain.

Genre: YA Historical Fantasy

My Thoughts

*I've read this book at least 5 times since 2021*

This book is TRULY a masterpiece! The author has such a way with words and her writing that you can't help but be captivated from beginning to end. Very much like the sea, the story begins in a gentle and calm pace, slowly builds into a fierce storm, and then quiets again as it takes you on an incredible adventure from mystery and legends to danger and intrigue.

I simply adore the characters! I can't help but admire Hattie's gentle strength as she grows to not only love Isurus, but also become willing to stand beside him and face both beauty and danger of Atlantis, even when the odds are against them. And ISURUS! I love his heart and courage, and willingness to fight for what he lost, even when he doubts himself. You can't help but root for him like many of the characters who are loyal to him!

And the romance! It was so gentle and sweet and beautiful that it left me smiling! A breath of fresh air!

But the secondary characters truly stand out as well! Mokkran, Galelio, Zyeana, Taurus, and Tryeana! Even the antagonists nearly moved me to pity. Nearly.

As much as I admire the close-knit community of Maine, it was the kingdomof Atlantis that truly captivated! From its honor-bound but very superstitious people to its incredible buildings to its mysterious underwater tunnels!

This entire book left me holding my breath (literally!) until the very end, where I released a big sigh of relief! It was truly beautiful and unique, worth reading again and again!

About the Author

Emily Hayse is a lover of log cabins, strong coffee, NASCAR, and the smell of old books. Her writing is fueled by good characters and a lifelong passion for storytelling. When she is not busy turning words into worlds, she can often be found baking, singing, or caring for one of the many dogs and horses in her life. A proud Michigan native, she currently resides in SoCal.

Website: emilyhayse.com

Facebook Page: The Hero Singer

Instagram: @SongofHeroes