What do you think?
Rate this book
Kinross Saga #1
Trade Winds
Marriage of convenience – or a love for life? It’s 1732 in Gothenburg, Sweden, and strong-willed Jess van Sandt knows only too well that it’s a man’s world. She believes she’s being swindled out of her inheritance by her stepfather – and she’s determined to stop it. When help appears in the unlikely form of handsome Scotsman Killian Kinross, himself disinherited by his grandfather, Jess finds herself both intrigued and infuriated by him. In an attempt to recover her fortune, she proposes a marriage of convenience. Then Killian is offered the chance of a lifetime with the Swedish East India Company’s Expedition and he’s determined that nothing will stand in his way, not even his new bride. He sets sail on a daring voyage to the Far East, believing he’s put his feelings and past behind him. But the journey doesn’t quite work out as he expects….
Finalist for the Romantic Novelists' Association's Pure Passion Award for Best Historical Fiction 2011.
Finalist for the Romantic Novelists' Association's Pure Passion Award for Best Historical Fiction 2011.
382 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2010
482 people are currently reading
968 people want to read
About the author
Christina Courtenay
35 books370 followersChristina Courtenay writes historical romance, time slip and time travel stories, and lives in Herefordshire (near the Welsh border) in the UK. Although born in England, she has a Swedish mother and was brought up in Sweden – hence her abiding interest in the Vikings. Christina is a former chairman of the UK’s Romantic Novelists’ Association and has won several awards, including the RoNA for Best Historical Romantic Novel twice with Highland Storms (2012) and The Gilded Fan (2014) and the RNA Fantasy Romantic Novel of the year 2021 with Echoes of the Runes. Christina is a keen amateur genealogist and loves history and archaeology (the armchair variety).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
January 20, 2019
La he visto más como una novela de aventuras que romántica. ¿cumple todos los requisitos de una novela romántica? Sí, pero no creo que el romance sea parte más destacable.
al fin y al cabo, a excepción de la parte del principio y el final, apenas tiene peso la relación entre dos personajes que se han casado pero prácticamente no comparten escenas. De esa forma es complicado transmitir al lector que están enamorados. Es algo muy personal.
Bien documentada en cuanto al tema del comercio con China del siglo XIX, es lo mejor para mí.
Transcurre en Suecia, como podría transcurrir en Escocia, lo cierto es que la ambientación de la autora en esa parte no es mucha y, aunque ese era parte del aliciente, al final me he llevado un pequeño chasco en ese sentido.
Así también con la parte de China, esperaba más ambientación y lo cierto es que apenas nos habla unos capítulos.
El principio me ha gustado mucho, una novela en la que el romance empieza a fuego lento y la relación entre los protagonistas se va fraguando como a mí me gusta, pero llega un punto en que la narración se hace lenta, abundan las descripciones del día a día que poco aportan a la trama y a mí se me hacía poco apetecible continuar con la lectura.
Eso sí, la travesía en el barco ocupa la parte principal
Una novela llena de giros pero con un ritmo lento que no ha cumplido las expectativas que tenía puestas en ella
al fin y al cabo, a excepción de la parte del principio y el final, apenas tiene peso la relación entre dos personajes que se han casado pero prácticamente no comparten escenas. De esa forma es complicado transmitir al lector que están enamorados. Es algo muy personal.
Bien documentada en cuanto al tema del comercio con China del siglo XIX, es lo mejor para mí.
Transcurre en Suecia, como podría transcurrir en Escocia, lo cierto es que la ambientación de la autora en esa parte no es mucha y, aunque ese era parte del aliciente, al final me he llevado un pequeño chasco en ese sentido.
Así también con la parte de China, esperaba más ambientación y lo cierto es que apenas nos habla unos capítulos.
El principio me ha gustado mucho, una novela en la que el romance empieza a fuego lento y la relación entre los protagonistas se va fraguando como a mí me gusta, pero llega un punto en que la narración se hace lenta, abundan las descripciones del día a día que poco aportan a la trama y a mí se me hacía poco apetecible continuar con la lectura.
Eso sí, la travesía en el barco ocupa la parte principal
Una novela llena de giros pero con un ritmo lento que no ha cumplido las expectativas que tenía puestas en ella
October 2, 2016
Me ha decepcionado mucho la historia de amor entre Killian y Jess. Me esperaba más y lo cierto es que todo a quedado en una novela de aventuras en vez de en una novela romántica. Los momentos de "acción, suspense o tensión" han perdido mucho efecto ya que se resolvian prácticamente al momento.
************* **SPOILER************ Véase los repetidos intentos de asesinato por parte de Farquahr************
En definitiva me he llevado un chasco gordo con esta novela, otra víctima más de mis malditas expectativas.
************* **SPOILER************ Véase los repetidos intentos de asesinato por parte de Farquahr************
En definitiva me he llevado un chasco gordo con esta novela, otra víctima más de mis malditas expectativas.
October 8, 2011
I have only recently been introduced to the writing of Christina Courtenay and that is because while I was reading other book blogs I came across a Prize Draw for The Scarlet Kimono another book of hers, it appealed to me, so I entered. What a lovely surprise it was when I won. Deciding to track down and read her earlier work first I obtained this copy of Trade Winds via Bookmooch.
Just the sort of fiction I recommend reading if you are in the mood to be transported back not only in time but also to a far away place. It is novels like this one that are encouraging me to read more historical fiction than I used to.
Reading the Authors notes at the beginning of the novel it appears that Christina Courtenay has done her research well for this novel basing it on the Swedish East India Company’s first journey to China in 1732. The protagonists of the story Jess van Sandt, Killian Kinross and their family and friends are all fictitious. However Colin Campbell and other crew members named in the novel were real people, whose lives she researched to enable her to write this realistic portrayal of a daring journey to the Far East.
The novel opens with Killian Ross a handsome Scot and professional gambler having a win that allows him to make dramatic changes to his life. Already disinherited by his grandfather Killian decides to leave his past behind in Scotland and try a to build a new life for himself in Sweden. It is in Gothenburg that he meets up with feisty Jess van Sendt, who on meeting Killian decides he might be just the man to help her prove that her stepfather is trying to do her out of her rightful inheritance. Killian is learning the art of trading in her family business and makes plans to join an expedition to the Far East. At first Jess finds Killian immensely irritating and he seems to find her just as infuriating. Intrigued with each other, Jess comes up with a plan for Killian to help her get possession of what is rightly hers. However I do not intend to spoil the story by telling you any more other than it does not quite work out the way Jess plans.
This is a delightful story with two well developed main characters that come to life, as you get to know them. It is a good read with plenty of love and adventure that will take you away to times past for a few satisfying hours.
Lots more information about this author and her work on LindyLouMac's Book Reviews
http://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogspo...
Just the sort of fiction I recommend reading if you are in the mood to be transported back not only in time but also to a far away place. It is novels like this one that are encouraging me to read more historical fiction than I used to.
Reading the Authors notes at the beginning of the novel it appears that Christina Courtenay has done her research well for this novel basing it on the Swedish East India Company’s first journey to China in 1732. The protagonists of the story Jess van Sandt, Killian Kinross and their family and friends are all fictitious. However Colin Campbell and other crew members named in the novel were real people, whose lives she researched to enable her to write this realistic portrayal of a daring journey to the Far East.
The novel opens with Killian Ross a handsome Scot and professional gambler having a win that allows him to make dramatic changes to his life. Already disinherited by his grandfather Killian decides to leave his past behind in Scotland and try a to build a new life for himself in Sweden. It is in Gothenburg that he meets up with feisty Jess van Sendt, who on meeting Killian decides he might be just the man to help her prove that her stepfather is trying to do her out of her rightful inheritance. Killian is learning the art of trading in her family business and makes plans to join an expedition to the Far East. At first Jess finds Killian immensely irritating and he seems to find her just as infuriating. Intrigued with each other, Jess comes up with a plan for Killian to help her get possession of what is rightly hers. However I do not intend to spoil the story by telling you any more other than it does not quite work out the way Jess plans.
This is a delightful story with two well developed main characters that come to life, as you get to know them. It is a good read with plenty of love and adventure that will take you away to times past for a few satisfying hours.
Lots more information about this author and her work on LindyLouMac's Book Reviews
http://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogspo...
April 7, 2013
Find the enhanced version of this and other reviews at: http://flashlightcommentary.blogspot....
While searching my kindle library I recently stumbled over Christina Courtenay's Trade Winds and was shocked that I still hadn't managed to fit it in to my reading schedule. So, naturally, I dropped a couple of things and gave every ounce of available attention to the book. A day and a half later I came up for air, thoroughly satisfied and more than a little impressed.
I wish I were better at gushing over books, but nothing I hobble together here is going to do justice to Courtenay or her work. Killian and Jessanijn are wonderful characters, well-rounded and relatable. A little headstrong perhaps, though I found their mutual determination and stubbornness rather endearing.
What I found most intriguing though was how Courtenay channeled her background and passion for history into her work. I love the British Isles as much as the next reader, but I also love being exposures to cultures, customs and chapters of history in which I am not as well-versed. On the surface Trade Winds is a historic romance, but under that is a treasure trove of material to get lost in.
My only problem with the piece are some minor concerns regarding the construction. Some things, the scene with Killian's mother for example, are left entirely open ended. Seeing as she had no real impact on the story and that there was no reconciliation between her and her son, I would have preferred to learn of her only in reference as we did Killian's brothers or Jess' father.
Delightfully addictive, Trade Winds takes readers off the beaten path in a historic romance that is anything but typical.
While searching my kindle library I recently stumbled over Christina Courtenay's Trade Winds and was shocked that I still hadn't managed to fit it in to my reading schedule. So, naturally, I dropped a couple of things and gave every ounce of available attention to the book. A day and a half later I came up for air, thoroughly satisfied and more than a little impressed.
I wish I were better at gushing over books, but nothing I hobble together here is going to do justice to Courtenay or her work. Killian and Jessanijn are wonderful characters, well-rounded and relatable. A little headstrong perhaps, though I found their mutual determination and stubbornness rather endearing.
What I found most intriguing though was how Courtenay channeled her background and passion for history into her work. I love the British Isles as much as the next reader, but I also love being exposures to cultures, customs and chapters of history in which I am not as well-versed. On the surface Trade Winds is a historic romance, but under that is a treasure trove of material to get lost in.
My only problem with the piece are some minor concerns regarding the construction. Some things, the scene with Killian's mother for example, are left entirely open ended. Seeing as she had no real impact on the story and that there was no reconciliation between her and her son, I would have preferred to learn of her only in reference as we did Killian's brothers or Jess' father.
Delightfully addictive, Trade Winds takes readers off the beaten path in a historic romance that is anything but typical.
March 31, 2011
This novel will appeal to those readers of historical fiction who seek to escape from the Tudors in England! It is set initially in Sweden, and this makes for a refreshing change.It is strong on character but weaker on a sense of period, but then I'm sure that is what the author intended.
The main characters are likeable - Killian the irrepressible Scot, and Jessamijn Von Sandt the feisty swedish beauty. There is of course no doubt that they will end up romantically attached, but the plot of "evil stepfather withholds inheritance" has enough twists and turns to keep you reading, even though you are aware you have to suspend your disbelief whilst you are being thoroughly entertained.
This is published under the Choc Lit imprint and it is exactly right for escapist chick-lit fans, to sit on a cosy sofa on Sunday afternoon with a box of Black Magic to hand. Cristina Courtenay takes us on a breathless journey from snow in Sweden to the bustling streets of Canton in China.
It is very well done, and I suppose my only criticism would be that it lacked any kind of sub-text or underlying theme or substance that would make me want to read it again.
November 8, 2011
Can't believe how many people have given this 4 and 5 stars! I can only just about scrape up 1! To me it felt like the author had made a list of every cliché she could think of and then made sure she used each one. Then she got as many stock characters involved as possible - feisty heroine, brave and handsome hero, evil villain, crotchety grandfather with the heart of gold, wicked stepfather. Then for good measure she threw in some highly unlikely dramatic incidents. Stirred it all up and came up with this apology for a novel. Only read it as it was my book group choice, otherwise wouldn't have wasted my time.
Read
October 3, 2010I really enjoyed this book. When i started it, I didn't think it was going to be a book I would be shouting to every one to read but now i have finished it and I am - read it!!! It has something for everyone - a gorgeous hero, Killian, a feisty heroine, Jess, and a stepfather who is doing everything he can to swindle Jess out of her inheritance. The result is an adventure she never imagined being a part of.
The story also has a historical part to it which i found very interesting. It is based on the first trading voyage of the Swedish East India Company to China and it was obvious the author had done alot of research to ensure correct details were included. It was a time and subject I have not read about before and i found it an interesting backdrop to the story.
There are many themes throughout the story including adventure, fueding, passion and betrayal. I really enjoyed the story and kept getting lost within the story, wanting to continue reading to see how teh story developed. The characters drew me into the story and i really cared for their journey throughout the story.
In brief, i recommend this book to all historical book fans and ensure you have put by a day to read it as you won't want to put it down once you have started it!
Thank you to Choc Lit books for sending me a copy to review
The story also has a historical part to it which i found very interesting. It is based on the first trading voyage of the Swedish East India Company to China and it was obvious the author had done alot of research to ensure correct details were included. It was a time and subject I have not read about before and i found it an interesting backdrop to the story.
There are many themes throughout the story including adventure, fueding, passion and betrayal. I really enjoyed the story and kept getting lost within the story, wanting to continue reading to see how teh story developed. The characters drew me into the story and i really cared for their journey throughout the story.
In brief, i recommend this book to all historical book fans and ensure you have put by a day to read it as you won't want to put it down once you have started it!
Thank you to Choc Lit books for sending me a copy to review
October 28, 2011
Ideally I'd like to give this three and a half stars, but alas, Goodreads doesn't allow half stars. Boo.
One of the things I enjoyed most about this novel was the fact that it wasn't set in England! Most historical fiction novels either take place in England (or someplace in Great Britain) or the colonies, so it was refreshing to read a book set in Sweden and later China.
However, I found this novel to be quite predictable, and the writing very elementary. The author latches on to a couple of words and then uses them over and over again. The bonus is that you could really make a fun drinking game out of how many times she uses the word "frisson" and how often she uses "grizzling" in reference to the baby. Warning: you might get drunk.
Even though the book was predictable and the writing not that great, it still held my interest, and I was interested to see if I was right in guessing how things would play out. I would recommend this book as a decent beach read.
One of the things I enjoyed most about this novel was the fact that it wasn't set in England! Most historical fiction novels either take place in England (or someplace in Great Britain) or the colonies, so it was refreshing to read a book set in Sweden and later China.
However, I found this novel to be quite predictable, and the writing very elementary. The author latches on to a couple of words and then uses them over and over again. The bonus is that you could really make a fun drinking game out of how many times she uses the word "frisson" and how often she uses "grizzling" in reference to the baby. Warning: you might get drunk.
Even though the book was predictable and the writing not that great, it still held my interest, and I was interested to see if I was right in guessing how things would play out. I would recommend this book as a decent beach read.
January 11, 2019
I enjoyed Trade Winds and found the descriptions of Sweden and China lovely. To take such a hazardous voyage from Sweden to China in the early eighteenth century must have required great courage. Which is the only thing that puzzled me. Why Farquhar bothered to follow his cousin, Killian, in order to murder him? The odds of completing the round trip were stacked against a traveller and I would have thought it better if he had waited to see if his cousin returned alive.
But even so, I'm happy to give four stars, since there was obviously a lot of research done and I felt that I was in the 1730's with the wigs and sedan chairs.
But even so, I'm happy to give four stars, since there was obviously a lot of research done and I felt that I was in the 1730's with the wigs and sedan chairs.
May 22, 2020
Inca de la inceput ne plasam in Scotia, Edinburgh in anul 1731 unde Killian, nepotul lordului Rusyth castiga la zaruri o suma mare de bani si o corabie Lady Madeleine.
Planurile lui sunt de a pleca in Londra si sa invete cat mai multe despre comert insa va vedea ca planurile sale vor fi modificate de bunicul sau.
Apoi ne plasam in Suedia unde Jess, tanara a carui tata moare accidental, mama se casatoreste,iar tatal vitreg o tine departe de afacere, de barbati spunandu.i ca tatal sau nu I.a lasat nimic mostenire. Jess nu il crede si incepe sa cerceteze, iara final adevarul va iesi la iveala.
O carte care ne relateaza o iubire care pot spune ca incepe ca un joc (Killian cerea sarutari pentru tacerea sa) incet incet vom avea de.a face cu o iubire profunda.
Iubirea nu este lipsita de peripetii, de oameni invidiosi care iti vor rau doar pentru ca esti fericit.
Impreuna reusesc sa treaca peste toate.
De la jumatatea cartii spre final suspansul este prezent aproape la fiecare pagina.
Finalul este pe masura asteptarilor mele.
O carte pe care v.o recomand si abia astept sa citesc si urmatoarele 2 volume.
Planurile lui sunt de a pleca in Londra si sa invete cat mai multe despre comert insa va vedea ca planurile sale vor fi modificate de bunicul sau.
Apoi ne plasam in Suedia unde Jess, tanara a carui tata moare accidental, mama se casatoreste,iar tatal vitreg o tine departe de afacere, de barbati spunandu.i ca tatal sau nu I.a lasat nimic mostenire. Jess nu il crede si incepe sa cerceteze, iara final adevarul va iesi la iveala.
O carte care ne relateaza o iubire care pot spune ca incepe ca un joc (Killian cerea sarutari pentru tacerea sa) incet incet vom avea de.a face cu o iubire profunda.
Iubirea nu este lipsita de peripetii, de oameni invidiosi care iti vor rau doar pentru ca esti fericit.
Impreuna reusesc sa treaca peste toate.
De la jumatatea cartii spre final suspansul este prezent aproape la fiecare pagina.
Finalul este pe masura asteptarilor mele.
O carte pe care v.o recomand si abia astept sa citesc si urmatoarele 2 volume.
May 21, 2011
I am officially a fan of Christina Courtenay. Here’s the deal: I rarely read romance, don’t do the damsel in distress bit, and can’t stand virginal women, but I enjoy Courtenay’s writing style very much and love the banter and flirtaciousness between her couples and her suspenseful storylines.
In this novel, the virgin is Jess and the experienced, dashing. . . I can’t use the word “rogue” here cause he is actually a compassionate, kind, funny man who happens to be good in bed. . is Killian. I wanted to marry Killian myself. There’s nothing not to like about him! Anyways, Jess is under her stepfather’s thumb. She suspects him of wrong doing involving the company she was supposed to inherit upon her father’s death. When Killian shows up on their doorstep as a merchant in training, Jess enlists the handsome man’s aid in getting to the bottom of the secrecy and lies, paying him with little kisses.
Killian has a situation as well. His cousin wants him dead and any woman he marries, any child he bears is on the death list as well. His cousin wants to inherit… all that is to be Killian’s.
The two marry for convenience sake and get off to a rough start, but soon become very close friends. The problem is Jess reacted very badly the first time they did the horizontal mambo.. a prime example of how the relationships around us affect our own.
“It had happened, exactly what she didn’t want – she had fallen under a man’s spell, unable to withstand him in any way. She had allowed Killian to do whatever he wanted with her, had been prepared to give in to his every command as long as he didn’t stop what he was doing. She had, to put it baldly, been helpless, the way her mother was helpless to resist Robert.”
So Jess and Killian must get past this mental hurdle/crutch in their relationship while 1. traveling to China and back on a merchant venture, 2. Thwarting an evil cousin’s intentions, and 3. Proving the company is Jess’s and grasping it from her evil step father.
This novel is not as exciting and fast paced as Courtenay’s second work, The Scarlet Kimono, which I read first. Still very enjoyable, however, and takes place in Scotland (a wee bit), Sweden, and China.
Favorite quote: “She sensed that here was a man who didn’t look down on her, despite his constant teasing. Knowing someone valued her as a person, not a chattel, was a powerful aphrodisiac.
In this novel, the virgin is Jess and the experienced, dashing. . . I can’t use the word “rogue” here cause he is actually a compassionate, kind, funny man who happens to be good in bed. . is Killian. I wanted to marry Killian myself. There’s nothing not to like about him! Anyways, Jess is under her stepfather’s thumb. She suspects him of wrong doing involving the company she was supposed to inherit upon her father’s death. When Killian shows up on their doorstep as a merchant in training, Jess enlists the handsome man’s aid in getting to the bottom of the secrecy and lies, paying him with little kisses.
Killian has a situation as well. His cousin wants him dead and any woman he marries, any child he bears is on the death list as well. His cousin wants to inherit… all that is to be Killian’s.
The two marry for convenience sake and get off to a rough start, but soon become very close friends. The problem is Jess reacted very badly the first time they did the horizontal mambo.. a prime example of how the relationships around us affect our own.
“It had happened, exactly what she didn’t want – she had fallen under a man’s spell, unable to withstand him in any way. She had allowed Killian to do whatever he wanted with her, had been prepared to give in to his every command as long as he didn’t stop what he was doing. She had, to put it baldly, been helpless, the way her mother was helpless to resist Robert.”
So Jess and Killian must get past this mental hurdle/crutch in their relationship while 1. traveling to China and back on a merchant venture, 2. Thwarting an evil cousin’s intentions, and 3. Proving the company is Jess’s and grasping it from her evil step father.
This novel is not as exciting and fast paced as Courtenay’s second work, The Scarlet Kimono, which I read first. Still very enjoyable, however, and takes place in Scotland (a wee bit), Sweden, and China.
Favorite quote: “She sensed that here was a man who didn’t look down on her, despite his constant teasing. Knowing someone valued her as a person, not a chattel, was a powerful aphrodisiac.
October 5, 2011
Trade Winds by Christina Courtenay is the first in a series of books published by Choc Lit.
Set in Gothenburg, Sweden in 1732 Jessamijn van Sandt (Jess) is a strong-minded young woman living under the protection of her rather nasty Step father who she believes is not all he claims to be.
Scotsman Killian Kinross has something to prove to his doubting Grand Father. He is worthy of being the Laird to family estate and will do all he can to prove it. When he meets Jess he is rather taken aback by her. Killian agrees to help to try to recover her lost fortune. He never expected to be a married man even if it is one of convenience.
Swedish East India Company are planning on setting off to China to Trade and Killian can not turn down this once in a lifetime opportunity which will hopefully once and for all show his Grandfather his worth so nothing is going to stop him from going, not even his new 'Wife'.
He sets sail on a daring voyage to the Far East, believing he’s put his feelings and past behind him. But the journey doesn’t quite work out as he expects …
Will this journey be able to make things clearer in Killian's mind of what he wants? Can he make his fortunes and survive the terrible seas alone?
I purchased this as an ebook as I saw lots of people talking about it on twitter and not being one who likes to be left out I wanted to see what it was all about. I'm so glad I did buy it as I was really gripped by this story. It is clear that Christina has researched these historical events in a great deal of depth, this is identified at the end of the book where she explains which elements are fact etc. This is more than a love story, it really is a historical adventure on the high seas as well!
I loved the relationship between Jess and Killian. A real raw attraction but one that both were too proud to show! Also, loved Adair not forgetting a great villain with a fab name, Farquhar!
Beautifully written and with a real fast pace to it. Can't wait to read the sequel Highland Storms which is out in November.
You can follow on twitter both Christina @PiaCCourtenay and Choc Lit @ChocLituk or find out more information via their websites http://christinacourtenay.com/ and http://www.choc-lit.co.uk/
Set in Gothenburg, Sweden in 1732 Jessamijn van Sandt (Jess) is a strong-minded young woman living under the protection of her rather nasty Step father who she believes is not all he claims to be.
Scotsman Killian Kinross has something to prove to his doubting Grand Father. He is worthy of being the Laird to family estate and will do all he can to prove it. When he meets Jess he is rather taken aback by her. Killian agrees to help to try to recover her lost fortune. He never expected to be a married man even if it is one of convenience.
Swedish East India Company are planning on setting off to China to Trade and Killian can not turn down this once in a lifetime opportunity which will hopefully once and for all show his Grandfather his worth so nothing is going to stop him from going, not even his new 'Wife'.
He sets sail on a daring voyage to the Far East, believing he’s put his feelings and past behind him. But the journey doesn’t quite work out as he expects …
Will this journey be able to make things clearer in Killian's mind of what he wants? Can he make his fortunes and survive the terrible seas alone?
I purchased this as an ebook as I saw lots of people talking about it on twitter and not being one who likes to be left out I wanted to see what it was all about. I'm so glad I did buy it as I was really gripped by this story. It is clear that Christina has researched these historical events in a great deal of depth, this is identified at the end of the book where she explains which elements are fact etc. This is more than a love story, it really is a historical adventure on the high seas as well!
I loved the relationship between Jess and Killian. A real raw attraction but one that both were too proud to show! Also, loved Adair not forgetting a great villain with a fab name, Farquhar!
Beautifully written and with a real fast pace to it. Can't wait to read the sequel Highland Storms which is out in November.
You can follow on twitter both Christina @PiaCCourtenay and Choc Lit @ChocLituk or find out more information via their websites http://christinacourtenay.com/ and http://www.choc-lit.co.uk/
September 1, 2010
I knew I had to read this book as soon as I saw its gorgeous cover. It promised the irresistible lure of adventure on the high seas and more than delivered on that.
Set in 1732, Trade Winds tells the story of roguish and handsome Killian Kinross who is forced to leave his native Scotland and forge a new career in Sweden. There he meets and is able to help out Jess van Sandt, the spirited step-daughter of his new employer, by entering into a marriage of convenience with her. Shortly afterwards, he sets sail for China on a voyage which could make both their fortunes.
I got thoroughly caught up in the stories of Killian and Jess and loved them both, reading the book in two sittings because I just couldn't put it down for any length of time and leave them hanging. They are such fantastic main characters that you're really rooting for them.
This book is one of contrasts - feuding and happy families, love and passion, greed and self-sacrifice, loyalty and betrayal, adventure and the daily slog of survival.
Peopled with a great cast of characters who bring alive the period this novel is set in, it also provides a fascinating look at a period in history and at trading centres - Gothenburg in Sweden and Canton in China - with which I was less familiar.
I loved it and devoured it (Perhaps unsurprisingly as it's published by ChocLit!) and will definitely be keeping a weather eye out for more of Christina Courtenay's books in future.
Set in 1732, Trade Winds tells the story of roguish and handsome Killian Kinross who is forced to leave his native Scotland and forge a new career in Sweden. There he meets and is able to help out Jess van Sandt, the spirited step-daughter of his new employer, by entering into a marriage of convenience with her. Shortly afterwards, he sets sail for China on a voyage which could make both their fortunes.
I got thoroughly caught up in the stories of Killian and Jess and loved them both, reading the book in two sittings because I just couldn't put it down for any length of time and leave them hanging. They are such fantastic main characters that you're really rooting for them.
This book is one of contrasts - feuding and happy families, love and passion, greed and self-sacrifice, loyalty and betrayal, adventure and the daily slog of survival.
Peopled with a great cast of characters who bring alive the period this novel is set in, it also provides a fascinating look at a period in history and at trading centres - Gothenburg in Sweden and Canton in China - with which I was less familiar.
I loved it and devoured it (Perhaps unsurprisingly as it's published by ChocLit!) and will definitely be keeping a weather eye out for more of Christina Courtenay's books in future.
November 11, 2012
Alas, I couldnt finish this book. :(
The story picked up at a few times, but dragged at most. The build up to the romance between the high class lady and rough rogue tok too long, while the unrequired attention to detail was just annoying me with every page. Perhaps if I have more time at my hands, it wouldnt have been a bad one...but for this try, not my type
The story picked up at a few times, but dragged at most. The build up to the romance between the high class lady and rough rogue tok too long, while the unrequired attention to detail was just annoying me with every page. Perhaps if I have more time at my hands, it wouldnt have been a bad one...but for this try, not my type
July 14, 2011
This was a fun read. I was surprised at how quickly I was drawn in. I loved the characters Killian and Jess. Very cute believable love story.
Mild swearing
Skipped over the love scene.
Mild swearing
Skipped over the love scene.
August 19, 2017
Fascinating history read.
June 28, 2019
I feel bad giving this such a low rating as some parts were enjoyable, but I didn't find that it sustained momentum enough to hold me and I didn't even finish reading the last few pages.
February 24, 2023
Killian es un muchacho rebelde, natural de Escocia, que malvive gracias a sus ganancias en las mesas de juego. Su madre lo abandonó siendo un niño, quedando bajo la tutela de su abuelo, un hombre que nunca ha sabido comprender la nobleza de su corazón. Su orgullo y la convicción de que no está haciendo nada malo le impiden doblegarse ante su anciano abuelo y disfrutar de las comodidades que este le ofrece a cambio de acatar sus órdenes, pero Killian, agobiado por su situación económica, sabe que tiene que dar un cambio de rumbo a su vida, por lo que finalmente se embarca en una nueva aventura que lo llevará hasta las gélidas tierras suecas para labrarse un futuro como comerciante naval.
Jess Van Sandt, es la hija de un acaudalado comerciante de Suecia que tras su muerte y el nuevo matrimonio de su madre con el contable de la familia, vive bajo el agobiante y estricto control de su nuevo padrastro. La única solución para poder librarse de sus garras y recuperar algo de libertad es tener acceso a su dote y para ello, necesita encontrar un marido. Killian Kinross está dispuesto a ayudarla en su empeño, pero a través de otros medios, ya que el matrimonio no entra en sus planes.
Killian es un personaje que me ha gustado mucho, porque no es el típico escocés machista y agresivo al que estamos acostumbrados (aunque en las peleas a puñetazos, no hay quien le gane), sino que se caracteriza por su inteligencia y su don para los negocios, habilidad gracias a la cual logra hacerse con una pequeña fortuna. Es un personaje noble, de gran corazón y al que no le gustan las injusticias.
Jess es un personaje muy dulce que también se hace querer, y aunque se presenta como la protagonista principal de esta historia, en mi opinión Killian le gana la partida y se hace con este puesto de honor.
«Vientos Alisios» una historia con un ritmo pausado, sobretodo al principio de la novela. La parte final del libro, en el que se narra el viaje hasta las Indias Orientales es la que más me ha gustado, quizás por su toque exótico que nos transporta a una cultura diferente a la europea y que nos descubre a grandes rasgos cómo se establece el comercio entre Europa y Asia, especialmente de la seda y de su exquisita porcelana china, aunque he finalizado la lectura con la sensación de que la historia podría haber dado mucho más de sí, si muchos de los momentos clave no se hubieran resuelto de forma tan precipitada.
Es una novela que deja patente la diferencia que implica nacer hombre o mujer en esa época. Los dos protagonistas viven una situación similar -ambos han sido despojados, por motivos diferentes, de las posesiones que les pertenecen legalmente- pero mientras que Killian tiene a su disposición múltiples recursos para labrarse un futuro, Jess, no tiene más remedio que acatar las órdenes que le imponen y permanecer en un segundo plano.
No había leído nada de su autora pero su estilo narrativo y la originalidad de su trama me han convencido para repetir en el futuro con otra de sus historias, preferiblemente, con alguna de esta serie.
Jess Van Sandt, es la hija de un acaudalado comerciante de Suecia que tras su muerte y el nuevo matrimonio de su madre con el contable de la familia, vive bajo el agobiante y estricto control de su nuevo padrastro. La única solución para poder librarse de sus garras y recuperar algo de libertad es tener acceso a su dote y para ello, necesita encontrar un marido. Killian Kinross está dispuesto a ayudarla en su empeño, pero a través de otros medios, ya que el matrimonio no entra en sus planes.
Killian es un personaje que me ha gustado mucho, porque no es el típico escocés machista y agresivo al que estamos acostumbrados (aunque en las peleas a puñetazos, no hay quien le gane), sino que se caracteriza por su inteligencia y su don para los negocios, habilidad gracias a la cual logra hacerse con una pequeña fortuna. Es un personaje noble, de gran corazón y al que no le gustan las injusticias.
Jess es un personaje muy dulce que también se hace querer, y aunque se presenta como la protagonista principal de esta historia, en mi opinión Killian le gana la partida y se hace con este puesto de honor.
«Vientos Alisios» una historia con un ritmo pausado, sobretodo al principio de la novela. La parte final del libro, en el que se narra el viaje hasta las Indias Orientales es la que más me ha gustado, quizás por su toque exótico que nos transporta a una cultura diferente a la europea y que nos descubre a grandes rasgos cómo se establece el comercio entre Europa y Asia, especialmente de la seda y de su exquisita porcelana china, aunque he finalizado la lectura con la sensación de que la historia podría haber dado mucho más de sí, si muchos de los momentos clave no se hubieran resuelto de forma tan precipitada.
Es una novela que deja patente la diferencia que implica nacer hombre o mujer en esa época. Los dos protagonistas viven una situación similar -ambos han sido despojados, por motivos diferentes, de las posesiones que les pertenecen legalmente- pero mientras que Killian tiene a su disposición múltiples recursos para labrarse un futuro, Jess, no tiene más remedio que acatar las órdenes que le imponen y permanecer en un segundo plano.
No había leído nada de su autora pero su estilo narrativo y la originalidad de su trama me han convencido para repetir en el futuro con otra de sus historias, preferiblemente, con alguna de esta serie.
July 16, 2017
3.5 stars if I'm being honest.
For all those people who whinged about this book- it's commercial literature, not fine literature. I've read a heck of a lot more historical fiction novels with inaccuracies, horribly undefined or facetious characters, non existent storylines etc.
This book, whilst not on the same level as my favourite historical fiction novels, was enjoyable. I can't lie. The characters of Jess and Killian were actually well portrayed, I could believe their courtship, and whilst the storyline was following the same paths as others before it, it was original in its own way, so kudos for that.
And for anyone who doesn't believe in the evil stepfather storyline... I have a stepmother who has done the same to me so I have to call it plausible.
The relationship with the grandfather didn't seem to be as well done but those were minor scenes.
I'll get around to reading the rest of the series as soon as I can.
For all those people who whinged about this book- it's commercial literature, not fine literature. I've read a heck of a lot more historical fiction novels with inaccuracies, horribly undefined or facetious characters, non existent storylines etc.
This book, whilst not on the same level as my favourite historical fiction novels, was enjoyable. I can't lie. The characters of Jess and Killian were actually well portrayed, I could believe their courtship, and whilst the storyline was following the same paths as others before it, it was original in its own way, so kudos for that.
And for anyone who doesn't believe in the evil stepfather storyline... I have a stepmother who has done the same to me so I have to call it plausible.
The relationship with the grandfather didn't seem to be as well done but those were minor scenes.
I'll get around to reading the rest of the series as soon as I can.
September 9, 2017
Ideally I'd give this book 3.5 but, seeing as there are no halves, I have to go with 4. Why? Because this book got me turning pages from the get go. Up to well over half way through I was rather enjoying it all; it was a nice story, I could picture the characters, and it was an easy read. I could tell the writing was a little naive from the onset but I didn't really care as it all flowed rather nicely. The last 10 or so chapters didn't pull me as much as the rest. The story got a bit Hollywood at that point and the writing a little more naive. Albeit, I happily persevered even though it was all getting rather predictable. A sweet read all the same. It ain't Austen, but it doesn't claim to be so.. Enjoy! There's always something to be learned.
June 22, 2023
I like all of Christina Courtenay's books and recommend them, but I could tell this was one of her first books. The characters were likable and the plot was interesting. I did think there were a few issues that weren't really resolved and that is why I gave it 3 stars instead of 4.
The mommy issues of both characters were left hanging at the end of the book. What happened with either mother? The "evil" stepfather? Where did he go? Didn't Killian want to go back and finally have a talk with his mother?
I didn't realize this book was the first in a series, so maybe the questions are answered in the next book?
Overall, I recommend the book, especially if you like historical novels!
The mommy issues of both characters were left hanging at the end of the book. What happened with either mother? The "evil" stepfather? Where did he go? Didn't Killian want to go back and finally have a talk with his mother?
I didn't realize this book was the first in a series, so maybe the questions are answered in the next book?
Overall, I recommend the book, especially if you like historical novels!
December 1, 2025
Estuvo bien para pasar el rato, aunque la sinopsis ya te cuenta casi todo el libro. También a partir de que empiezan a navegar decae un poco. Básicamente porque se me hizo incoherente la actitud de los protagonistas, se supone que pasan más de un año juntos en un barco compartiendo camarote y nos tenemos que creer que en todo ese tiempo no hablaron sobre su relación? Ni se dieron un beso? Creo que esa parte no estuvo bien hilada, además me desesperaba que siempre que estaban en peligro ella se lamentaba por no haberle expresado sus sentimientos pero seguía sin hablar y así hasta el final, bastante repetitivo, sumado a que él siempre fue bueno con ella y estaban casados!
July 12, 2017
Read this on holiday in Gothenburg having heard quite a bit from the tour guides about the influence of the Scots and Dutch in the development of the city and the importance of the Swedish East India Company. It was nice to put imagined human faces to that story. An easy holiday read, I found myself rooting for Jess and Killian and enjoying the exotic locations.
May 22, 2017
Excellent book set in the colonial times when all the powers that be were trying to form the east india trading companies. Could have done with more historical information but I enjoyed the feminist vs the rogue verbal sparring matches between the main characters.
April 23, 2020
There were elements of the story I quite enjoyed but I was half way through the book before I started to like the male lead character. I will give the second book in the series a go since I have it, hopefully I will be more engaged.
February 26, 2025
This is an enjoyable book. It tells the story of Killian Kinross who buys a ship and sets off to China to trade.
Killian is joined by his wife Jess.
There are lots of twists and turns in the story. Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Killian is joined by his wife Jess.
There are lots of twists and turns in the story. Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
June 17, 2025
The author fulfils her promise of transporting the reader to another world. All the Regency marriage of convenience tropes are there and, if one is willing to suspend disbelief, it is the perfect book to be gobbled up in one sitting. Killian's self-control is truly remarkable.
December 12, 2017
Underhållande. Enfaldiga personporträtt.
September 23, 2018
3.5 stars. An interesting time in history, particularly reading about the influence of the Scottish in Sweden.
July 12, 2019
Run, don't walk, in the opposite direction.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews