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High Seas #1
Sea Change
American privateer Captain David Fletcher needs a surgeon for his wounded brother. But when he captures a British merchantman in the Caribbean, what he gets is Charley Alcott, an apprentice physician barely old enough to shave. Needs take priority over skill, and Captain Fletcher whisks the prisoner aboard his ship with orders to do his best or he'll be walking the plank.
Charley Alcott's medical skills are being put to the test in a life-or-death situation--Charley's life as well as the patient's. Even if Charley can save the captain's brother, there will still be hell to pay, and maybe a plank to walk, when Captain Fletcher learns Charley is really Charlotte Alcott.
A war is raging on the world's oceans, and two enemies will fight their own battles and their attraction to each other as they undergo a sea change neither of them is expecting, but cannot deny...
Genres: Romance / Historical Romance
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2011
27 people are currently reading
1012 people want to read
About the author
Darlene Marshall
8 books172 followersDarlene Marshall is the author of award-winning historical romance featuring pirates, privateers, smugglers, and the occasional possum.
Past jobs include working as a reporter, news anchor, news director, obit writer, news producer and radio station owner. She's never been a pirate, but the day's not yet over.
Awards for her books include: Colorado Romance Writers Award of Excellence and Readers' Choice Award for Historical Romance; The Aspen Gold Award; finalist for the Desert Rose RWA Golden Quill Award; FCRW National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award; and the Eppie (Electronic Publishing) award twice for Best Historical Romance.
Her books are also available in French, German and Estonian.
Marshall can be reached at darlenemarshall[at]darlenemarshall.com
She/her Represented by Barbara Collins Rosenberg of The Rosenberg Group.
Past jobs include working as a reporter, news anchor, news director, obit writer, news producer and radio station owner. She's never been a pirate, but the day's not yet over.
Awards for her books include: Colorado Romance Writers Award of Excellence and Readers' Choice Award for Historical Romance; The Aspen Gold Award; finalist for the Desert Rose RWA Golden Quill Award; FCRW National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award; and the Eppie (Electronic Publishing) award twice for Best Historical Romance.
Her books are also available in French, German and Estonian.
Marshall can be reached at darlenemarshall[at]darlenemarshall.com
She/her Represented by Barbara Collins Rosenberg of The Rosenberg Group.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
May 14, 2012
Holy crap, this book was ABSOLUTELY fantastic!
I loved it from beginning to end, and as soon as I finish writing this review, I'm going to go and buy a stack of other books by this author.
This books shows hands-down how a pirate story should be written. It also shows how a skinny heroine story, a birds-in-breeches story, a drop-dead gorgeous hero/blah heroine story and a naval doctor story should be written too. Yup, I'm serious, it really is that good.
I have an almost unhealthy obsession for pirate/naval historical romances, and those with heroines disguised as boys are probably my favorite of all, mainly because women really did do this for a whole number of reasons, and there is something that appeals to me in a romance in such a romantic setting which is at least partially based in fact. But I usually find myself disappointed. The hero sees through the heroine's disguise far too soon, usually by Chapter 3, spends the rest of the book chasing the heroine around the deck, before she falls pathetically into his berth (usually whilst fainting or something), and then the whole business gets overtaken by the plot moving on to a good pirates v bad pirates thing. See, what I mean? Disappointing!
Well, this one doesn't disappoint. Not at all! The heroine's disguise is the whole point of this book - why she does it, how she is so convincing, why some people see through her and others don't, what happens when they do..
Something else this book does perfectly is describe the whole process of falling in love with someone, not just lusting after their body, but loving them as a person. It's one of the very few books I've read which makes a compelling case as to why a gorgeous, coverboy-worthy hero is attracted to a skinny, bony, flat-chested heroine. It really is the most convincing story of love transcending physical perfection.
I have to also say that the descriptions of the gruesome work of a naval doctor (Can I amputate your other leg now, sir?) aren't just dry passages explaining where the heroine works and sleeps, because we need to know the layout of her room when the hero seduces her in Chapter 3. Oh no, we get to see what the heroine actually does on board.
Which brings me to the part which I absolutely loved best about this book... the heroine has a passion and a personal mission beyond herself, beyond her love for the hero and beyond her own desires and needs. She is a doctor, and without the ability to practice she is not a fulfilled person. I can't honestly remember reading many romances which manage to convey that so well.
So, the plot, the characters, the setting are all perfect. Did I also mention that the writing is also great? Having been a female engineering student among a whole posse of men, I can honestly say that the descriptions of pissing, farting and burping competitions have more than a passing resemblence to reality in a male dominated environment. Bless 'em.
5 stars. It was amazing and straight onto my all-time-favorites list.
I loved it from beginning to end, and as soon as I finish writing this review, I'm going to go and buy a stack of other books by this author.
This books shows hands-down how a pirate story should be written. It also shows how a skinny heroine story, a birds-in-breeches story, a drop-dead gorgeous hero/blah heroine story and a naval doctor story should be written too. Yup, I'm serious, it really is that good.
I have an almost unhealthy obsession for pirate/naval historical romances, and those with heroines disguised as boys are probably my favorite of all, mainly because women really did do this for a whole number of reasons, and there is something that appeals to me in a romance in such a romantic setting which is at least partially based in fact. But I usually find myself disappointed. The hero sees through the heroine's disguise far too soon, usually by Chapter 3, spends the rest of the book chasing the heroine around the deck, before she falls pathetically into his berth (usually whilst fainting or something), and then the whole business gets overtaken by the plot moving on to a good pirates v bad pirates thing. See, what I mean? Disappointing!
Well, this one doesn't disappoint. Not at all! The heroine's disguise is the whole point of this book - why she does it, how she is so convincing, why some people see through her and others don't, what happens when they do..
Something else this book does perfectly is describe the whole process of falling in love with someone, not just lusting after their body, but loving them as a person. It's one of the very few books I've read which makes a compelling case as to why a gorgeous, coverboy-worthy hero is attracted to a skinny, bony, flat-chested heroine. It really is the most convincing story of love transcending physical perfection.
I have to also say that the descriptions of the gruesome work of a naval doctor (Can I amputate your other leg now, sir?) aren't just dry passages explaining where the heroine works and sleeps, because we need to know the layout of her room when the hero seduces her in Chapter 3. Oh no, we get to see what the heroine actually does on board.
Which brings me to the part which I absolutely loved best about this book... the heroine has a passion and a personal mission beyond herself, beyond her love for the hero and beyond her own desires and needs. She is a doctor, and without the ability to practice she is not a fulfilled person. I can't honestly remember reading many romances which manage to convey that so well.
So, the plot, the characters, the setting are all perfect. Did I also mention that the writing is also great? Having been a female engineering student among a whole posse of men, I can honestly say that the descriptions of pissing, farting and burping competitions have more than a passing resemblence to reality in a male dominated environment. Bless 'em.
5 stars. It was amazing and straight onto my all-time-favorites list.
November 13, 2011
Story Rating 5 stars
Character Rating 5 stars
Romance Rating 4 stars
Heat Level 3 stars
Overall Rating 5 stars
I LOVED this story and I had a really hard time putting it down.
The heroine made this book for me she was a fantastic character but I have to say that all the characters in this book were very well done.
This story had some really exciting moments and the action of the sea battles were very well done. Warning if you do not like reading about the injuries that happen from battles this book would not be for you because there are quite a few gory scenes.
The love scenes while not many were done well and I was a bit surprised at the heat level I got out of this book. They were very believable and I could feel the love as it grew between the H&h.
There was also LOL moments and I shed a few tears while reading this book.
This was the second book of Darlene Marshall's that I've read a really enjoyed. I look forwards to more from this author.
Character Rating 5 stars
Romance Rating 4 stars
Heat Level 3 stars
Overall Rating 5 stars
I LOVED this story and I had a really hard time putting it down.
The heroine made this book for me she was a fantastic character but I have to say that all the characters in this book were very well done.
This story had some really exciting moments and the action of the sea battles were very well done. Warning if you do not like reading about the injuries that happen from battles this book would not be for you because there are quite a few gory scenes.
The love scenes while not many were done well and I was a bit surprised at the heat level I got out of this book. They were very believable and I could feel the love as it grew between the H&h.
There was also LOL moments and I shed a few tears while reading this book.
This was the second book of Darlene Marshall's that I've read a really enjoyed. I look forwards to more from this author.
maybe
April 6, 2015FREE on ARe for TODAY--4/6/2015
February 12, 2012
4/5; 4 stars; A-
I can't decide whether to make this a 4 star or a 5 star book. I really liked it. I want to re-read The Iron Rose and The Charm School to see how this compares in my memory. Both of those were excellent pirate books.
I liked the balance between history, romance, action, and angst in this book. Charley was the kind of female lead I love to read about. She followed her dream, even though in the reality of the time no one would even entertain the idea of a female doctor. She was faced with some real trials in her life and she made a plan and handled what faced her.
I enjoyed the many humorous situations that arose due to Charley hiding her gender. David Fletcher was a perfect counterpart in the story.
All in all this was a great read!
I can't decide whether to make this a 4 star or a 5 star book. I really liked it. I want to re-read The Iron Rose and The Charm School to see how this compares in my memory. Both of those were excellent pirate books.
I liked the balance between history, romance, action, and angst in this book. Charley was the kind of female lead I love to read about. She followed her dream, even though in the reality of the time no one would even entertain the idea of a female doctor. She was faced with some real trials in her life and she made a plan and handled what faced her.
I enjoyed the many humorous situations that arose due to Charley hiding her gender. David Fletcher was a perfect counterpart in the story.
All in all this was a great read!
May 6, 2021
Très belle découverte que cet auteur qui faisait parti des invités du Festival du Roman Féminin 2021. J'ai toujours aimé les histoires de pirates et les films de la Dernière séance. Captain Blood est une de mes histoires préférées.
C'est très agréable à lire, assez original dans le cadre de la romance, à savoir que c'est très bien documenté et cohérent niveau historique. L'auteur a une plume légère, parfois drôle mais sans pour autant nous épargner dans des détails biens réalistes de batailles ou de vie en pleine mer.
J'en étais restée pour ma part, dans ce genre historique, au viol de l'héroïne de Shirlee Bisbee dans Lady Vixen. Certes une romance très old school, mais il est vrai que l'univers des pirates ne prête pas vraiment à la douceur. Je trouve que Darlene Marshall s'en sort très bien et renouvelle bien le genre, sans pour autant l'édulcorer.
C'est très agréable à lire, assez original dans le cadre de la romance, à savoir que c'est très bien documenté et cohérent niveau historique. L'auteur a une plume légère, parfois drôle mais sans pour autant nous épargner dans des détails biens réalistes de batailles ou de vie en pleine mer.
J'en étais restée pour ma part, dans ce genre historique, au viol de l'héroïne de Shirlee Bisbee dans Lady Vixen. Certes une romance très old school, mais il est vrai que l'univers des pirates ne prête pas vraiment à la douceur. Je trouve que Darlene Marshall s'en sort très bien et renouvelle bien le genre, sans pour autant l'édulcorer.
August 23, 2012
Another wonderful story by Ms. Marshall. A sailing story set during the War of 1812. The hero is an American privateer and the heroine is an English woman masquerading as a man/surgeon. Of course this is during a time when women were not in any way accepted as physicians. The tone of the book was not as light hearted as the other book I read by this author but I loved them both. The way the heroine carried out her masquerade and the reasons for it were very well done. The historical accuracy was spot on. The medical stuff was gruesome but realistic. I had this image of the movie Master and Commander running through my head the whole time I read this. The imagery was quite well done and you could see the scenes in your mind. The romance was well done also. I liked both the heroine and the hero. Both were well developed and their relationship was given plenty of time to come to fruition. There was even quite a bit of angst at the end before the HEA.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
April 11, 2020
Lecture sympatique, avec un couple qui fonctionne.
J'espère que la suite sera traduite.
J'espère que la suite sera traduite.
June 20, 2013
4.5 stars - Reviewed for Romantic Historical Lovers Blog: http://romantichistoricallovers.wordp...
Although heavily favored by Shakespeare, and there is much historical evidence proving that a number of women have successfully pulled off disguises as men, the girl-masquerading-as-a-guy has never been one of my favorite romance tropes. This is probably because I prefer realism in stories (also the reason I do not generally read fantasy or paranomal romances). I don’t like having to completely suspend belief to enjoy a book, and in this kind of tale, one has little choice. The simple fact is that women, even in male clothing, do not look like men.
Facts: We are relatively hairless compared to men, our bones are slighter, and our features are much more refined. Our skin has a different texture, and our bodies have a distinctly different shape. That is not even to mention the obvious anatomical parts we lack - notably an Adam’s apple, and the tell-tale dangly pieces. That a romance hero would be compltely blind to all of this is almost ridiculous, and what makes it hard for me to swallow this trope.
Having said all this, however, Darlene Marshall has managed to cover enough of these bases that I had no great difficultly with the pretense in Sea Change.
After the death of her mother, Charlotte “Charley” Alcott is raised more as a son than a daughter by her physician father, who even dresses her as a boy in order to take her on his medical calls. Charley doesn’t mind this. She has a sharp mind and an inquisitive nature and soon desires to be a physician in her own right—but this is a nearly impossible dream in the early 19th century. When Charley’s father passes away, she has no home and no livelihood and must make her own way. With the hope of continuing her medical training under her godfather’s wing, Charley masquerades as a young male physician to pay for her passage to Jamaica—but things don’t turn out quite as she planned. Midway through the voyage, her ship is boarded by American privateers who seek medical care for one of their wounded— the captain’s brother. Charley is taken for this purpose and maintaining her disguise becomes essential to preserving her life.
This is where I give kudos to the author. Charley is not described as a devastating beauty. If she had been, the subterfuge would not have been the least believable. She is tall and slender with blunt features. In addition to binding her small breasts, Charley wears her coat and cravat at all times, thus masking her shape and lack of an Adam’s apple. In addition to aping the walk, posture, and mannerisms of her male counterparts, Charley uses padding to help her look more like a male. Even with all this, however, there are a few characters who manage to see through her disguise. This once more makes the story more believable.
Above all, what made this story work for me was Charley’s strength of character. She was incredibly well- drawn and managed consistently to hold her own in-- even in some horrific circumstances.
Here are snippets from some favorite scenes:
Charley’s medical skills are put to the test numerous times:
Later that day Charley was prepared to acknowledge that if you have seen one sailor’s genitals, you have pretty much seen them all…clearly these men had never heard that ‘A moment with Venus amy mean a lifetime with Mercury…’
And often under tremendous pressure:
Charley shook herself. Grabbing a cloth, she wiped her face and moved overto take the wounded man into the light. “Mr. Purcell is dead. Clear him off the table, Mr. Lewis.” Lewis stood frozen, glassy-eyed as he looked down at Purcell’s corpse. ”I don’t have time for this!” Chrley snapped; and hauling back her bloodied hand, slapped Lews hard enough across the jaw to rock him on his feet. “Mr. Lewis, help, or get the hell out of my way!”
There were also a number of humorous moments.
Did you men no hear me? I said Charley Alcott—that Charley Alcott standing right there—is a woman! A woman aboard the Fancy!”
“Looks to me like it’s the same Charley Alcott who bandaged my hand,”Reynolds said, eyeing the ship’s doctor up and down. “I ain’t got complaints about that. Any of you men got complaints ’bout how the doctor’s doing his job?” The men all looked at each other and shook their heads, or shrugged. “See? We need Dr. Alcott, Cap’n….”
“But he can’t wear a skirt!” Larkin yelled out from the back.
“Well that’s only fair,” Reynolds acknowledged. “You don’t want to wear a skirt, do you, Dr. Alcott?”
Of course this would not be a romance without a blooming relationship between Charley and the ship’s captain, the dashing David Fletcher, aka Black Davey. David is drawn to the young doctor— at first to his intelligence, competence, wit, and courage, but later in a physical way that he finds horribly disconcerting. Of course this presents numerous tense moments until Charley’s secret is finally revealed.
The author’s hard work and research shines in the story’ expansive details of 19th century medical practices and life at sea. Although these details are quite fascinating, at times they tend to slow the pace. Nevertheless, I highly recommend this engaging and romantic high seas adventure.
Although heavily favored by Shakespeare, and there is much historical evidence proving that a number of women have successfully pulled off disguises as men, the girl-masquerading-as-a-guy has never been one of my favorite romance tropes. This is probably because I prefer realism in stories (also the reason I do not generally read fantasy or paranomal romances). I don’t like having to completely suspend belief to enjoy a book, and in this kind of tale, one has little choice. The simple fact is that women, even in male clothing, do not look like men.
Facts: We are relatively hairless compared to men, our bones are slighter, and our features are much more refined. Our skin has a different texture, and our bodies have a distinctly different shape. That is not even to mention the obvious anatomical parts we lack - notably an Adam’s apple, and the tell-tale dangly pieces. That a romance hero would be compltely blind to all of this is almost ridiculous, and what makes it hard for me to swallow this trope.
Having said all this, however, Darlene Marshall has managed to cover enough of these bases that I had no great difficultly with the pretense in Sea Change.
After the death of her mother, Charlotte “Charley” Alcott is raised more as a son than a daughter by her physician father, who even dresses her as a boy in order to take her on his medical calls. Charley doesn’t mind this. She has a sharp mind and an inquisitive nature and soon desires to be a physician in her own right—but this is a nearly impossible dream in the early 19th century. When Charley’s father passes away, she has no home and no livelihood and must make her own way. With the hope of continuing her medical training under her godfather’s wing, Charley masquerades as a young male physician to pay for her passage to Jamaica—but things don’t turn out quite as she planned. Midway through the voyage, her ship is boarded by American privateers who seek medical care for one of their wounded— the captain’s brother. Charley is taken for this purpose and maintaining her disguise becomes essential to preserving her life.
This is where I give kudos to the author. Charley is not described as a devastating beauty. If she had been, the subterfuge would not have been the least believable. She is tall and slender with blunt features. In addition to binding her small breasts, Charley wears her coat and cravat at all times, thus masking her shape and lack of an Adam’s apple. In addition to aping the walk, posture, and mannerisms of her male counterparts, Charley uses padding to help her look more like a male. Even with all this, however, there are a few characters who manage to see through her disguise. This once more makes the story more believable.
Above all, what made this story work for me was Charley’s strength of character. She was incredibly well- drawn and managed consistently to hold her own in-- even in some horrific circumstances.
Here are snippets from some favorite scenes:
Charley’s medical skills are put to the test numerous times:
Later that day Charley was prepared to acknowledge that if you have seen one sailor’s genitals, you have pretty much seen them all…clearly these men had never heard that ‘A moment with Venus amy mean a lifetime with Mercury…’
And often under tremendous pressure:
Charley shook herself. Grabbing a cloth, she wiped her face and moved overto take the wounded man into the light. “Mr. Purcell is dead. Clear him off the table, Mr. Lewis.” Lewis stood frozen, glassy-eyed as he looked down at Purcell’s corpse. ”I don’t have time for this!” Chrley snapped; and hauling back her bloodied hand, slapped Lews hard enough across the jaw to rock him on his feet. “Mr. Lewis, help, or get the hell out of my way!”
There were also a number of humorous moments.
Did you men no hear me? I said Charley Alcott—that Charley Alcott standing right there—is a woman! A woman aboard the Fancy!”
“Looks to me like it’s the same Charley Alcott who bandaged my hand,”Reynolds said, eyeing the ship’s doctor up and down. “I ain’t got complaints about that. Any of you men got complaints ’bout how the doctor’s doing his job?” The men all looked at each other and shook their heads, or shrugged. “See? We need Dr. Alcott, Cap’n….”
“But he can’t wear a skirt!” Larkin yelled out from the back.
“Well that’s only fair,” Reynolds acknowledged. “You don’t want to wear a skirt, do you, Dr. Alcott?”
Of course this would not be a romance without a blooming relationship between Charley and the ship’s captain, the dashing David Fletcher, aka Black Davey. David is drawn to the young doctor— at first to his intelligence, competence, wit, and courage, but later in a physical way that he finds horribly disconcerting. Of course this presents numerous tense moments until Charley’s secret is finally revealed.
The author’s hard work and research shines in the story’ expansive details of 19th century medical practices and life at sea. Although these details are quite fascinating, at times they tend to slow the pace. Nevertheless, I highly recommend this engaging and romantic high seas adventure.
February 20, 2020
Une romance que j'ai adoré, originale et drôle. J'ai moins aimé le dernier tiers du roman avec quelques longueurs mais les 2 premiers tiers rattrapent le tout largement !
October 21, 2012
A totally fun, frothy pirate privateer romance. Charley is such a great heroine. She's a smart, compassionate woman who discovered her love for medicine as a child at her father's side. Posing as a young man in order to practice medicine and earn her fare across Atlatentic, she's captured by American privateer Davey Fletcher. I love how the woman masquerading as a man was handled here. So often no one can figure it out except the hero because he's so Alpha or something she can't hide her womanliness from him. That's not how it goes here. Many others figure it out before Fletcher. Not that he's clueless that there's something different about the young doctor. He just doesn't see what he isn't expecting to see. I love that much of the crew on the ship doesn't care, they've got a ship doctor who isn't a drunk, wants to help them and doesn't kill them (Marshall does not shy away from early 19th century medical practices> so they're happy to ignore the fact that she's a woman.
It's a fun battle of wits and expectations. The overall tone was light and fun but not silly. Marshall also does not shy away from the dangers of being at sea, particularly while at war. But overall it's like being on the Pirate's of the Caribbean ride at Disney. You finish it with a big smile on your face.
It's a fun battle of wits and expectations. The overall tone was light and fun but not silly. Marshall also does not shy away from the dangers of being at sea, particularly while at war. But overall it's like being on the Pirate's of the Caribbean ride at Disney. You finish it with a big smile on your face.
May 16, 2023
Drama on the high seas, an American privateer in search of booty, the Royal Navy trying to protect the cargo of British merchantmen, a young woman (fully trained by her late father) in disguise serving as surgeon aboard the schooner Fancy, a passionate love affair between the captain of the American vessel and the British surgeon—misunderstandings abound, love eventually conquers all, clever dialog/banter sparks frequent chuckles, super entertainment
May 15, 2021
3.5 ⭐
Un régal en matière d'histoire de pirates, de vie à bord d'un schooner et des prouesses de la médecine. C'est un livre passionnant et bien documenté. Par contre, la romance est charmante mais convenue.
Charley est immédiatement séduite par l'américain (un corsaire ayant emprunté ses services pour soigner son frère gravement blessé), bien qu'elle doive s'en cacher. En effet, elle exerce son activité sous un uniforme masculin et en prétendant être un jeune homme. Mais elle a une conscience aigüe de soigner les autres donc ne s'oppose pas du tout à sa nouvelle condition et tisse rapidement une relation amicale avec Davy le Noir.
J'avais cependant imaginé que le capitaine Fletcher ferait davantage trembler les parois de la goélette. Surtout lorsqu'il découvrirait la supercherie. Au lieu de ça, la belle bat des cils en toute innocence. Et lui fait son grincheux, très peu de temps. La tentation étant trop grande.
Dommage pour la lectrice (moi) en quête de relations tumultueuses. 😘
Un régal en matière d'histoire de pirates, de vie à bord d'un schooner et des prouesses de la médecine. C'est un livre passionnant et bien documenté. Par contre, la romance est charmante mais convenue.
Charley est immédiatement séduite par l'américain (un corsaire ayant emprunté ses services pour soigner son frère gravement blessé), bien qu'elle doive s'en cacher. En effet, elle exerce son activité sous un uniforme masculin et en prétendant être un jeune homme. Mais elle a une conscience aigüe de soigner les autres donc ne s'oppose pas du tout à sa nouvelle condition et tisse rapidement une relation amicale avec Davy le Noir.
J'avais cependant imaginé que le capitaine Fletcher ferait davantage trembler les parois de la goélette. Surtout lorsqu'il découvrirait la supercherie. Au lieu de ça, la belle bat des cils en toute innocence. Et lui fait son grincheux, très peu de temps. La tentation étant trop grande.
Dommage pour la lectrice (moi) en quête de relations tumultueuses. 😘
July 7, 2022
This was the second book I read after Castaway Dreams. I doubt any other books by this author can top that book for me, but this one was excellent. There was great chemistry between the MC’s. I enjoyed the fast-paced plot and the suspense. I really enjoy this author’s swashbuckling romances.
February 19, 2020
3,5 étoiles J'ai bien aimé cette romance historique.
Si la relation amoureuse entre David et Charley ne casse pas des briques, j'ai adoré le contexte et l'humour omniprésent. Charley est une femme qui se fait passer pour un homme pour pouvoir exercer la médecine. Toute l'histoire se passe en mer. Tout d'abord Charley va se faire enlever pour ses qualités de médecin par David, un corsaire Américain. La romance mettra du temps à arriver, mais sincèrement, ce n'est pas ce qui m'a le plus intéressé ici. Non, c'est toute la partie où Charley exerce son métier auprès de tout l'équipage, et il y a des situations à se tordre de rire (ou pas, c'est selon). L'auteure a pris son temps pour poser le contexte et vraiment, j'ai aimé autant l'histoire annexe que les personnages.
Une chouette romance historique à lire pour passer une bonne soirée-détente.
Si la relation amoureuse entre David et Charley ne casse pas des briques, j'ai adoré le contexte et l'humour omniprésent. Charley est une femme qui se fait passer pour un homme pour pouvoir exercer la médecine. Toute l'histoire se passe en mer. Tout d'abord Charley va se faire enlever pour ses qualités de médecin par David, un corsaire Américain. La romance mettra du temps à arriver, mais sincèrement, ce n'est pas ce qui m'a le plus intéressé ici. Non, c'est toute la partie où Charley exerce son métier auprès de tout l'équipage, et il y a des situations à se tordre de rire (ou pas, c'est selon). L'auteure a pris son temps pour poser le contexte et vraiment, j'ai aimé autant l'histoire annexe que les personnages.
Une chouette romance historique à lire pour passer une bonne soirée-détente.
September 9, 2015
I've read all of Darlene Marshall's books (except her latest which is on my TBR list). This is a departure for her, though she has written about false identities when it comes to gender, this is a new take on that theme. It's the story of Charlotte Alcott, a young Englishwoman disguising herself as a doctor on board a merchant ship bound for Jamaica. En route, she is forced to board an American privateer captained by the handsome Davy Fletcher. Having no idea she's really a girl they strike up a friendship, but she soon falls for him and he, much to his chagrin, finds he's having wayward thoughts about her/him as well. Good story but no romance involved until the 2nd half of the book and then hero is missing for the last 30 pages or so. If you enjoy stories of doctoring methods at sea in the early 19th century you'll enjoy this for there is much detail and description of battle wounds and amputations, etc. I enjoyed it and am eager to read her next which brings back the minor character of Dr. Murray.
3.5/5
3.5/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2011
Favorite line: "Look! I'm a narwhal!"
This book was a wonderful mix of humor, adventure, and love story. I impulsively bought it after reading a good review at DearAuthor.com and I'm so glad I did.
Charley's (Charlotte's) position as ships doctor made for some gorey and realistic scenes. That was offset by plenty of laughter. I highly recommend this book!
This book was a wonderful mix of humor, adventure, and love story. I impulsively bought it after reading a good review at DearAuthor.com and I'm so glad I did.
Charley's (Charlotte's) position as ships doctor made for some gorey and realistic scenes. That was offset by plenty of laughter. I highly recommend this book!
May 22, 2017
Pirates o´hoy! or privateers anyway.
Girl in disguise as Young man. fairly competent as a ships surgeon. kidnapped by privateers to save the Captains brother.
quite good att following the romance-formula. Still not as good as Essex's Almost a Scandal.
I like the competent heroine in disguise, and not getting discovered.
Girl in disguise as Young man. fairly competent as a ships surgeon. kidnapped by privateers to save the Captains brother.
quite good att following the romance-formula. Still not as good as Essex's Almost a Scandal.
I like the competent heroine in disguise, and not getting discovered.
September 17, 2012
This book worked for me on many levels. I enjoyed the interactions between the hero and heroine. I enjoyed the plot. I liked the characters and watching them fall for each other. There were wonderful moments of humor interspersed with touching emotion. All around highly recommended!
May 7, 2014
a definite keeper!!! Loved it! A true gem with a unique plot and romance:)
5+ stars!!
5+ stars!!
December 16, 2017
I have to admit I read a lot of historical romances ever since I was given my own copy of Pride and Prejudice (Darcy will always be in top ten book boyfriends!) , I always find the period between 1700-1900 fascinating so I devour all the books I can.
Pirate books are very special though as unlike the ‘land’ books, with pirates you are about 99% guaranteed to have a good action plot line, not just because of the Sea battles, but mainly as women shouldn’t be present at all in these situations. Women were seen as bad luck on any ship let alone a pirate (or privateer)one, so this then means that the book is already on a good start as we need to find out why a woman is on board. I have found there are generally two reasons, the first is that the woman is kidnapped, the second is she is running from either a bad life or trying to escape to a better one(often Involving that beautiful plot of girl dressed as boy!) . This book actually falls into both categories. Charley wishes to start a new life to practice medicine in Jamaica so dressed as a boy and sets off across the Atlantic, but is then kidnapped by privateers who need her medical skills.
As this is a romance I will comment on this first. Unlike other novels, Charley’s masquerade continues for a good long while, this allows the friendship between David and Charley to grow. They value each others knowledge and I can actually sense how much the seemingly two ‘men’would mean to each other. It was sweet that David was concerned that his ‘male’ friend may have a romantic interest in him but didn’t shy away but actually wanted to help him (of course it is pretty funny too!). When the truth is revealed the romance comes in full force, David doesn’t take long to process the revelation, and neither character runs from their feelings. I have to say I liked this, the novel didn’t take ages with David upset that he had been deceived.
The conditions of the ship were done brilliantly, we are given no illusions about the injuries that men had when at sea. Almost straight away Charley must amputate a limb so there is no sugarcoating the conditions that existed. I would have like to see more battle scenes, I have read novels where the woman is on deck with a cutlass fighting but here Charley stays below deck helping the men. I can understand this from her point of view that she wouldn’t know what is going on, but as we are also given David’s POV it would have been good to see more action.
Overall a great swashbuckling novel, certainly we don’t have the sword fighting scenes that some books have but the medical perspective was certainly interesting. The romance is a slow building one that actually makes you believe it is not all lust, but one born from friendship.
Pirate books are very special though as unlike the ‘land’ books, with pirates you are about 99% guaranteed to have a good action plot line, not just because of the Sea battles, but mainly as women shouldn’t be present at all in these situations. Women were seen as bad luck on any ship let alone a pirate (or privateer)one, so this then means that the book is already on a good start as we need to find out why a woman is on board. I have found there are generally two reasons, the first is that the woman is kidnapped, the second is she is running from either a bad life or trying to escape to a better one(often Involving that beautiful plot of girl dressed as boy!) . This book actually falls into both categories. Charley wishes to start a new life to practice medicine in Jamaica so dressed as a boy and sets off across the Atlantic, but is then kidnapped by privateers who need her medical skills.
As this is a romance I will comment on this first. Unlike other novels, Charley’s masquerade continues for a good long while, this allows the friendship between David and Charley to grow. They value each others knowledge and I can actually sense how much the seemingly two ‘men’would mean to each other. It was sweet that David was concerned that his ‘male’ friend may have a romantic interest in him but didn’t shy away but actually wanted to help him (of course it is pretty funny too!). When the truth is revealed the romance comes in full force, David doesn’t take long to process the revelation, and neither character runs from their feelings. I have to say I liked this, the novel didn’t take ages with David upset that he had been deceived.
The conditions of the ship were done brilliantly, we are given no illusions about the injuries that men had when at sea. Almost straight away Charley must amputate a limb so there is no sugarcoating the conditions that existed. I would have like to see more battle scenes, I have read novels where the woman is on deck with a cutlass fighting but here Charley stays below deck helping the men. I can understand this from her point of view that she wouldn’t know what is going on, but as we are also given David’s POV it would have been good to see more action.
Overall a great swashbuckling novel, certainly we don’t have the sword fighting scenes that some books have but the medical perspective was certainly interesting. The romance is a slow building one that actually makes you believe it is not all lust, but one born from friendship.
May 6, 2025
From the blurp, this seemed a perfect fit: From time to time, I enjoy seafaring adventures. Plus I like regency novels and women dressed as men is one of my favorite tropes - totally unrealistic in most cases, but so much potential for adventure, comedy and romance.
And it mostly WAS a perfect fit.There was adventure, there was an extremely likeable heroine, there was humour, lots of interesting and well-presented details about life on board of a ship and medical conditions/practices at that time. The story flowed, hero and heroine were verbally crossing swords while at the same time getting to know each other better/developing feelings for each other, with the usual pitfalls of the woman-dressed-as-man trope simultaneously impeding them and spurring them on.
HOWEVER, after about half of the book, Charley's identity was revealed to the hero and the steamy stuff started to dominate (still written very well and in keeping with the characterization and with some nice metaphors and touching moments). Hard on the heels of that things got a bit soppy - drama and impending heartache because Charley is a doctor, whose job is to help/heal the crew and protect life, whereas David is a pirate/privateer, which means he is constantly endangering and even taking lives. This was still in line with their previous characterization, but ...
... I simply prefer it when the gender reveal is done later in the book OR the love plot is resolved later on. Because if both happen around the middle of the book we get this very drawn-out period of bliss whose main purpose (apart from reader gratification) is to pave the way for a too drawn-out period of (often contrived) drama/obstacles before the hero/heroine (or rather: we readers ;) ) finally get their happy ending. And although I love me a love plot, I do most certainly not like going in circles or feeling played.
Also, the Jamaican part was not really my cup of tea. It reminded me too much of the ugly duckling now becomes the beautiful swan trope - and that is sth I don't like. At. All
Anyways. Although I started skipping a couple of pages/paragraphs in the second part of the book because of this, the book was still extremely well written and I can only recommend it to lovers of historical romances who enjoy heroines posing as men during their adventures, especially in a nautical setting
February 9, 2020
4.5 ⭐
Waouh, alors ça, c'est un histo qui décoiffe !!
J'ai vraiment beaucoup aimé ce roman, et croyez-moi l'indication "coup de coeur" mentionnée sur la couverture n'est pas usurpée ! Darlene Marshall nous offre un roman dépaysant, bourré d'aventures en tout genre, en nous entraînant dans une folle équipée aux côtés de Charley et des corsaires qui l'ont enlevée.
J'ai adoré la personnalité de l'héroïne, c'est une sacrée nana ! Car si se faire passer pour un homme, de surcroit un médecin, sur un bateau de marchandises le temps d'une "simple" traversée de l'Atlantique n'est pas chose facile, c'est carrément une autre paire de manches que de maintenir la supercherie quand on se fait enlever par des corsaires (alias les ennemis américains à cette époque de conflit entre l'Angleterre et les États-Unis) !
J'ai trouvé ça génial de voir Charley à l’œuvre au quotidien dans son infirmerie en tant que docteur et parfois même chirurgien, et c'est extra aussi d'intercaler avec des scènes de batailles et d'abordage ! C'est marrant parce que sur le coup je n'y ai pas pensé, mais là, en écrivant cette chronique, j'ai la musique de Pirates des Caraïbes dans la tête ! Et pourtant, les marins dont il est question ici ne sont pas des pirates, mais des corsaires : c'est-à-dire qu'ils agissent pour le compte de leur gouvernement, et que leur butin est considéré comme une participation à l'effort de guerre. Pour autant, ils doivent se montrer prudents, et ne pas se faire capturer par l'ennemi, sous peine d'être faits prisonniers de guerre !
Si l'héroïne est vraiment top, le héros est réussi lui aussi. J'ai adoré l'ambiguïté de sa relation avec Charley, ce trouble qu'il ressent de plus en plus pour ce Dr Alcott qu'il croit être un homme.
Honnêtement, j'ai tout aimé dans ce livre, que ce soit la romance, les personnages secondaires (ils sont top eux aussi !), les nombreuses scènes médicales, la personnalité des héros et leur sens de la répartie, ou encore les scènes de batailles avec les navires ennemis, avec à la clé, bien sûr, une bonne rasade de rhum pour fêter la victoire !
Bref, un sans faute !
Waouh, alors ça, c'est un histo qui décoiffe !!
J'ai vraiment beaucoup aimé ce roman, et croyez-moi l'indication "coup de coeur" mentionnée sur la couverture n'est pas usurpée ! Darlene Marshall nous offre un roman dépaysant, bourré d'aventures en tout genre, en nous entraînant dans une folle équipée aux côtés de Charley et des corsaires qui l'ont enlevée.
J'ai adoré la personnalité de l'héroïne, c'est une sacrée nana ! Car si se faire passer pour un homme, de surcroit un médecin, sur un bateau de marchandises le temps d'une "simple" traversée de l'Atlantique n'est pas chose facile, c'est carrément une autre paire de manches que de maintenir la supercherie quand on se fait enlever par des corsaires (alias les ennemis américains à cette époque de conflit entre l'Angleterre et les États-Unis) !
J'ai trouvé ça génial de voir Charley à l’œuvre au quotidien dans son infirmerie en tant que docteur et parfois même chirurgien, et c'est extra aussi d'intercaler avec des scènes de batailles et d'abordage ! C'est marrant parce que sur le coup je n'y ai pas pensé, mais là, en écrivant cette chronique, j'ai la musique de Pirates des Caraïbes dans la tête ! Et pourtant, les marins dont il est question ici ne sont pas des pirates, mais des corsaires : c'est-à-dire qu'ils agissent pour le compte de leur gouvernement, et que leur butin est considéré comme une participation à l'effort de guerre. Pour autant, ils doivent se montrer prudents, et ne pas se faire capturer par l'ennemi, sous peine d'être faits prisonniers de guerre !
Si l'héroïne est vraiment top, le héros est réussi lui aussi. J'ai adoré l'ambiguïté de sa relation avec Charley, ce trouble qu'il ressent de plus en plus pour ce Dr Alcott qu'il croit être un homme.
Honnêtement, j'ai tout aimé dans ce livre, que ce soit la romance, les personnages secondaires (ils sont top eux aussi !), les nombreuses scènes médicales, la personnalité des héros et leur sens de la répartie, ou encore les scènes de batailles avec les navires ennemis, avec à la clé, bien sûr, une bonne rasade de rhum pour fêter la victoire !
Bref, un sans faute !
January 9, 2024
Highly enjoyed it (I read it in two days), I'm just tough on books. I RECOMMEND IT.
It's a sweet little romance, better done than most--it's a big step above Hallmark and dollar store paperbacks. I really enjoyed the clear research that went into this book; the ship was more than a set piece, it was a setting. The MC is smart and sharp, and the LI is a well rounded character. I greatly appreciated that the "reveal" you usually get in these books happened about 65% of the way through it, rather than, like, 50 pages in. I also really appreciated that it was self-aware--it addressed the moral issues of a PIRATE who KILLS for money and a doctor, and actually resolved it beyond "the power of love compels you!" It highlighted the EFFORT to be a man in day to day close quarters. It had a MC who enjoyed aspects of both being a woman and posing as a man. There were other things, but tldr it was not just a superficial smash and dash romance. My greatest love for this book however is the everyday life of the MC and her WORK as a doctor and all that entails.
My two MILD criticisms for this book were 1. It was a pretty low stakes plot. It had fun, but there wasn't a great amount of tension. Did I still eat it up? Yes. Did I think I would die if I didn't get to the next chapter? Nope. 2. Though there is DEFINITELY chemistry between the MC+LI, the sudden time jump + like to love transition was a bit, well, sudden. ((Mildest of spoilers incoming)) I wanted one or two good late night convos before she's so in love she won't leave, yknow? A little more slow burn! ((end))
While it had its complaints and it wasn't revolutionary, it was a truly entertaining and heartfelt romp that had soul to it, not just a wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am. Will reread.
It's a sweet little romance, better done than most--it's a big step above Hallmark and dollar store paperbacks. I really enjoyed the clear research that went into this book; the ship was more than a set piece, it was a setting. The MC is smart and sharp, and the LI is a well rounded character. I greatly appreciated that the "reveal" you usually get in these books happened about 65% of the way through it, rather than, like, 50 pages in. I also really appreciated that it was self-aware--it addressed the moral issues of a PIRATE who KILLS for money and a doctor, and actually resolved it beyond "the power of love compels you!" It highlighted the EFFORT to be a man in day to day close quarters. It had a MC who enjoyed aspects of both being a woman and posing as a man. There were other things, but tldr it was not just a superficial smash and dash romance. My greatest love for this book however is the everyday life of the MC and her WORK as a doctor and all that entails.
My two MILD criticisms for this book were 1. It was a pretty low stakes plot. It had fun, but there wasn't a great amount of tension. Did I still eat it up? Yes. Did I think I would die if I didn't get to the next chapter? Nope. 2. Though there is DEFINITELY chemistry between the MC+LI, the sudden time jump + like to love transition was a bit, well, sudden. ((Mildest of spoilers incoming)) I wanted one or two good late night convos before she's so in love she won't leave, yknow? A little more slow burn! ((end))
While it had its complaints and it wasn't revolutionary, it was a truly entertaining and heartfelt romp that had soul to it, not just a wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am. Will reread.
January 15, 2024
⭐️ 4.0
How very cute. Loved it.
Liked:
❤️ romance. Nice and slow.
❤️ loved the explosiveness of their passion once the secret was out. We went from longing and subdued looks to blazing, fiery kisses in an instant, and it never slowed down between them.
❤️ loved that the attraction was personality based, more or less. Ok actually, tbh, she was calling him the most handsome man ever but when they talked of love it was the personalities that both were attracted to.
❤️ characters were both great people.
❤️ loved that she was dressed in disguise.
❤️ loved that she was valued for herself and her skills, even after she was found out.
❤️ umm, hello, Pirate?!
❤️ I loved that the “attractiveness” of the main characters were flipped in the end.
❤️ their sarcastic humour grew on me immensely as we read. I liked it a lot.
❤️ I enjoyed reading all the doctor dialogue. Had to look up what certain maladies looked like and it was entertaining and interesting.
😔 did not like that every now and then I felt like we skipped some clues to how the other was feeling, before her gender reveal. For example, it took me a paragraph or so to parse that his reaction of anger was because he was attracted to her when disguised as a man, not because of something she had done. It was like I had missed two or so sentences that gave me that final clue of his (or her) real thoughts. Especially when the author had done so well to lay it out for me up to then. I guess that can be put down to me being slow, not the writers fault.
How very cute. Loved it.
Liked:
❤️ romance. Nice and slow.
❤️ loved the explosiveness of their passion once the secret was out. We went from longing and subdued looks to blazing, fiery kisses in an instant, and it never slowed down between them.
❤️ loved that the attraction was personality based, more or less. Ok actually, tbh, she was calling him the most handsome man ever but when they talked of love it was the personalities that both were attracted to.
❤️ characters were both great people.
❤️ loved that she was dressed in disguise.
❤️ loved that she was valued for herself and her skills, even after she was found out.
❤️ umm, hello, Pirate?!
❤️ I loved that the “attractiveness” of the main characters were flipped in the end.
❤️ their sarcastic humour grew on me immensely as we read. I liked it a lot.
❤️ I enjoyed reading all the doctor dialogue. Had to look up what certain maladies looked like and it was entertaining and interesting.
😔 did not like that every now and then I felt like we skipped some clues to how the other was feeling, before her gender reveal. For example, it took me a paragraph or so to parse that his reaction of anger was because he was attracted to her when disguised as a man, not because of something she had done. It was like I had missed two or so sentences that gave me that final clue of his (or her) real thoughts. Especially when the author had done so well to lay it out for me up to then. I guess that can be put down to me being slow, not the writers fault.
August 8, 2021
My first foray into this genre, so I have no basis of comparison in that regard. I saw Ms. Marshall highlighted in my UF alumni magazine, and thought I’d give this a try and in so doing also support a fellow alumna.
Time period is the War of 1812, and while there are some mentions of elements of temporal relevance, it is not enough to satisfy my criteria to be labeled quality historical fiction.
This revolves around the trope of a woman disguised as a man, not my favourite premise. And while Charley has the underpinnings of a strong female heroine, this is the point in her character evolution where she is developing those skills. This is akin to what I would expect to read in young adult fiction (save for the sexual exploration). Based on the combination of these factors, I couldn’t love this story.
My opinion is most muddled with respect to the humour. Marshall definitely employs a lively writing style, and this is not something I am accustomed to. Some of the jokes seriously made me roll my eyes, like really?!?, a narwhal? come on. A serious detractor for me, but a recognized requirement for a light hearted entertaining read.
I will work on acquiring some of Marshall’s other texts, and perhaps others within this genre to be able to enhance the depth of my critiques. Gotta start somewhere right?
Time period is the War of 1812, and while there are some mentions of elements of temporal relevance, it is not enough to satisfy my criteria to be labeled quality historical fiction.
This revolves around the trope of a woman disguised as a man, not my favourite premise. And while Charley has the underpinnings of a strong female heroine, this is the point in her character evolution where she is developing those skills. This is akin to what I would expect to read in young adult fiction (save for the sexual exploration). Based on the combination of these factors, I couldn’t love this story.
My opinion is most muddled with respect to the humour. Marshall definitely employs a lively writing style, and this is not something I am accustomed to. Some of the jokes seriously made me roll my eyes, like really?!?, a narwhal? come on. A serious detractor for me, but a recognized requirement for a light hearted entertaining read.
I will work on acquiring some of Marshall’s other texts, and perhaps others within this genre to be able to enhance the depth of my critiques. Gotta start somewhere right?
September 29, 2021
Delightful entertaining read, highly recommended
Was a delight to read! The characters were full personality and a good deal of humor and sass that had me grinning. Lots of action and just the perfect amount of steamy romance mixed in.
Our main character Charley Alcott is an apprentice Physician and has dressed as boy to seek free passage as a Physician to Jamica where she can continue her studies. During the voyage an unexpected turn of events occur! A Privateer ship attacks and takes her prisoner as they are in dire need of a Surgeon. Although taken aboard as a prisoner, Captain David Fletcher begins to develop a friendship with the young doctor and wishes to convince him to stay aboard or join him in America. Charley knows she cannot hope for anything but a friendship with the Captain despite her feelings starting to develop. But he must never know she is female or she'll face the consequences of her deciet especially in a time of ongoing war between their two countries . However it becomes increasingly difficult when said Captain has taken upon himself to guide what he thinks is a 'skinny young boy' to into his proper aldocent to manhood.
This book will have you chuckling, grinning, and on the edge of your seat at everything tossed Charleys way. I am going to order the physical book now to put on my shelf since it such a delightful read.
Was a delight to read! The characters were full personality and a good deal of humor and sass that had me grinning. Lots of action and just the perfect amount of steamy romance mixed in.
Our main character Charley Alcott is an apprentice Physician and has dressed as boy to seek free passage as a Physician to Jamica where she can continue her studies. During the voyage an unexpected turn of events occur! A Privateer ship attacks and takes her prisoner as they are in dire need of a Surgeon. Although taken aboard as a prisoner, Captain David Fletcher begins to develop a friendship with the young doctor and wishes to convince him to stay aboard or join him in America. Charley knows she cannot hope for anything but a friendship with the Captain despite her feelings starting to develop. But he must never know she is female or she'll face the consequences of her deciet especially in a time of ongoing war between their two countries . However it becomes increasingly difficult when said Captain has taken upon himself to guide what he thinks is a 'skinny young boy' to into his proper aldocent to manhood.
This book will have you chuckling, grinning, and on the edge of your seat at everything tossed Charleys way. I am going to order the physical book now to put on my shelf since it such a delightful read.
December 8, 2017
I don't know how to feel about this one. I practically skimmed it through. There were no character development, nothing to hold my interest, and everything felt really rushed. I wish this could've been a book I liked but it just didn't work out that way sadly. The h is basically a doctor pretending to be a man due to the historical context of not allowing females to be doctors in the first place. She is en route to go to Jamaica because her guardian lives there and she's underage apparently. Almost when we meet her she's already helping the wife of the boat's captain deliver her child, and right after that happens the h is kidnapped by privateers to help amputate the hand of the H's brother. She does so, and also does a routine check up on the rest of the crew for good measure while she's at it. It's only when she falls overboard and gets rescued by the H that he finds out that she's really a woman because of her 'curves'. After that it's only a matter of him trying to get into her pants and that's basically it.
(This tiny review is basically for myself so I can keep an eye on what I've already read and not have to go through the trouble of asking myself why it was I didn't like this book in particular.)
(This tiny review is basically for myself so I can keep an eye on what I've already read and not have to go through the trouble of asking myself why it was I didn't like this book in particular.)
October 27, 2021
3.5 stars, could not decide if I wanted to round up or down for the life of me.
This is one of the first historical romances I've ever read, so I don't want to pass judgement on the whole genre, but some of the themes in this were hard to read. I understand that one of the main themes is gender, and it is of course accurate to the time period, but some of the things that happened were still mildly upsetting. Multiple times I almost stopped reading because I thought it was going to a place that would trigger me.
That being said, I did really enjoy the story itself and the love interest's opinion of her gender and the brief conversation where he stated he didn't mind either way was heartwarming. The ending was also definitely what I wanted from it.
(Reviews I write are largely for my own benefit of being able to look back on what I've read, so apologies if anyone is reading this and wanted something more intelligently worded!)
This is one of the first historical romances I've ever read, so I don't want to pass judgement on the whole genre, but some of the themes in this were hard to read. I understand that one of the main themes is gender, and it is of course accurate to the time period, but some of the things that happened were still mildly upsetting. Multiple times I almost stopped reading because I thought it was going to a place that would trigger me.
That being said, I did really enjoy the story itself and the love interest's opinion of her gender and the brief conversation where he stated he didn't mind either way was heartwarming. The ending was also definitely what I wanted from it.
(Reviews I write are largely for my own benefit of being able to look back on what I've read, so apologies if anyone is reading this and wanted something more intelligently worded!)
October 5, 2019
Usually i'm not a big fan of historical books but this book was unique for me. It's really refreshing not boring at all. All the characters were perfect. Charley Alcott was funny, brave, fierce and she was beautiful in her own ways. There was many things to like about Charley but the one thing i really loved about her is, she was practical. Even though she knew there was no future with David she loved him anyway . Captain Fletcher aka handsome Davy was everything anyone would want in a hero but he was stubborn as a mule. In the middle of harsh sea no one lost their humor and there was really funny situations in the story. Sea change is one of those books that i would read over and over again and not get bored. I recommend this book to everyone who loves a strongwill brave heroin and a hero who would do anything to have what he wants.
January 17, 2019
I was in the mood for a pirate book and they’re always quick reads for me because I can’t put them down! This book had some good romance; however, I wish David would have found out Charley’s identity earlier in the book so he wasn’t so concerned that he was gay for a male Charley even though it was super funny to me. This book does good with historical accuracies and I believe it takes place around the War of 1812 (APUSH don’t fail me now). Overall, I liked this book and I’ll probably be reading another pirate novel starting in a few hours...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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