12 must-read YA book releases to spring into this April

I

April 2021 release: In Deepter Waters – F.T. Lukens

A young prince must rely on a mysterious stranger to save him when he is kidnapped in a swoony high seas adventure that mixes The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue with Pirates of the Caribbean.

I’m not sure who in the world needs more convincing after reading that description – I mean, an LGBTQ pirate romance? Sign me up.

In Deeper Waters follows the story of Prince Tal, who embarks on his coming-of-age tour only to find himself kidnapped by pirates along the way and held for ransom. An attractive stranger may be his only chance at rescue, in a story that includes sea witches, dangerous magic, political intrigue, and more.

The official synopsis describes the story in greater detail.

"Prince Tal has long awaited his coming-of-age tour. After spending most of his life cloistered behind palace walls as he learns to keep his forbidden magic secret, he can finally see his family’s kingdom for the first time. His first taste of adventure comes just two days into the journey, when their crew discovers a mysterious prisoner on a burning derelict vessel. Tasked with watching over the prisoner, Tal is surprised to feel an intense connection with the roguish Athlen. So when Athlen leaps overboard and disappears, Tal feels responsible and heartbroken, knowing Athlen could not have survived in the open ocean. That is, until Tal runs into Athlen days later on dry land, very much alive, and as charming—and secretive—as ever. But before they can pursue anything further, Tal is kidnapped by pirates and held ransom in a plot to reveal his rumored powers and instigate a war. Tal must escape if he hopes to save his family and the kingdom. And Athlen might just be his only hope…"

In Deeper Waters is available on April 20.