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Call of the Sea #1
Call of the Sea
Elysandra Winters has always yearned for a life of adventure on the rolling seas and is willing to do whatever it takes to fulfill her dream. When her Privateer father continually refuses to allow his only daughter to sail, Ellie defies him, disguises herself as a boy, and goes in search of a captain who will give her a chance to prove her worth.
Thanks to the cursed selkie blood coursing through his veins, Daniel O'Rourke needs the sea to survive. After giving up on his humanity and spending three years in seal form, he decides to give his human side another chance. Daniel goes in search of a job and a sense of normalcy, earning himself a position aboard Captain Winter's ship, The Siren's Call. However, his new captain's first assignment has nothing at all to do with sailing, and everything to do with his headstrong young daughter.
Years later, when the leader of a band of bloodthirsty pirates murders Captain Winters, Daniel and Elysandra's lives come crashing back together with the force of a hurricane. Both experts in deception, they must find a way to trust each other in order to quell the raging storm between them or have any hope of hunting down the captain's killer.
Thanks to the cursed selkie blood coursing through his veins, Daniel O'Rourke needs the sea to survive. After giving up on his humanity and spending three years in seal form, he decides to give his human side another chance. Daniel goes in search of a job and a sense of normalcy, earning himself a position aboard Captain Winter's ship, The Siren's Call. However, his new captain's first assignment has nothing at all to do with sailing, and everything to do with his headstrong young daughter.
Years later, when the leader of a band of bloodthirsty pirates murders Captain Winters, Daniel and Elysandra's lives come crashing back together with the force of a hurricane. Both experts in deception, they must find a way to trust each other in order to quell the raging storm between them or have any hope of hunting down the captain's killer.
323 pages, Paperback
First published June 20, 2012
7 people are currently reading
1418 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Hart
24 books128 followersIm a self made IT geek, single parent and reformed RPG/gaming junkie living in the rolling hills of upstate NY (you know-where you can smell cows and it takes a ten minute drive to buy a gallon of milk).
When I am not at work with my head buried in a PC, I am at home or camp with my nose buried in a laptop writing.
** I didn't write Full Circle Home or Soul's Road, but no matter how many times I ask for them to be removed from "my books", they still show up. **
When I am not at work with my head buried in a PC, I am at home or camp with my nose buried in a laptop writing.
** I didn't write Full Circle Home or Soul's Road, but no matter how many times I ask for them to be removed from "my books", they still show up. **
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
June 14, 2012
What a pleasure to read this without a week or so between chapters! Yes, I was blessed to be an early beta reader. I saw CotS in the rough. Not that it was really rough to begin with - unpolished if you will. ;)
Yummies: I thought I was caught up in the story before! The simplicity of Ms. Hart's writing makes for a super rich but easy read. No paragraph upon paragraph of exposition. Pure writing at its best - character, tension, & action. So, so good.
And what characters they are! Ellie is a short-tempered, stubborn young woman intent upon sailing the ocean.
Daniel (my Danny Boy) is a selkie and has loved Ellie since first seeing her as a young girl.
Both are so real - so flawed - so human-like that I felt their emotions, highs & lows.
This debut novel is one of those that you dread noticing the remaining pages ebb away. You CAN NOT put it down, yet the desire to do so and make it last longer is almost too much to bear.
Yuckies: There aren't any. Period.
Recommend: Abso-freakin'-lutely. Even if pirates, intrigue, and the high seas aren't your thing, you'll fall in love with this story - its characters kick @$$.
Check out my review on my blog which includes a character interview w/ the HOT Daniel O'Rourke!
http://terrirochenski.blogspot.com/20...
Yummies: I thought I was caught up in the story before! The simplicity of Ms. Hart's writing makes for a super rich but easy read. No paragraph upon paragraph of exposition. Pure writing at its best - character, tension, & action. So, so good.
And what characters they are! Ellie is a short-tempered, stubborn young woman intent upon sailing the ocean.
Daniel (my Danny Boy) is a selkie and has loved Ellie since first seeing her as a young girl.
Both are so real - so flawed - so human-like that I felt their emotions, highs & lows.
This debut novel is one of those that you dread noticing the remaining pages ebb away. You CAN NOT put it down, yet the desire to do so and make it last longer is almost too much to bear.
Yuckies: There aren't any. Period.
Recommend: Abso-freakin'-lutely. Even if pirates, intrigue, and the high seas aren't your thing, you'll fall in love with this story - its characters kick @$$.
Check out my review on my blog which includes a character interview w/ the HOT Daniel O'Rourke!
http://terrirochenski.blogspot.com/20...
April 19, 2012
Equal parts romance and adventure, CALL OF THE SEA is 100% kick-ass! As a reader who appreciates strong female characters, I instantly fell in love with Ellie's determination and tomboy stubbornness, as well as her vulnerabilities--especially her weak spot for her family.
CALL is well-plotted, perfectly paced and the voices are spot-on. All the historical details ring true, yet the story is completely accessible to a modern audience. And although the story centers on the pirating life, there's no "campy" aspect to it.
I'd never heard of a selkie before picking up CALL, so that part took a little "suspension of disbelief," but Hart handles this deftly and I soon found myself in love with the "cursed" hero, Daniel. If ever there was a stand-up guy (in either form), it's him.
The ending felt slightly rushed, but that's probably because I just wanted more. I sincerely hope Hart is contemplating a sequel (hint, hint). I can absolutely see this as a series.
This was a genuine pleasure to read and I see lots of success in Rebecca Hart's future.
CALL is well-plotted, perfectly paced and the voices are spot-on. All the historical details ring true, yet the story is completely accessible to a modern audience. And although the story centers on the pirating life, there's no "campy" aspect to it.
I'd never heard of a selkie before picking up CALL, so that part took a little "suspension of disbelief," but Hart handles this deftly and I soon found myself in love with the "cursed" hero, Daniel. If ever there was a stand-up guy (in either form), it's him.
The ending felt slightly rushed, but that's probably because I just wanted more. I sincerely hope Hart is contemplating a sequel (hint, hint). I can absolutely see this as a series.
This was a genuine pleasure to read and I see lots of success in Rebecca Hart's future.
May 16, 2012
BLURB from Goodreads
Elysandra Winters has always yearned for a life of adventure on the rolling seas and is willing to do whatever it takes to fulfill her dream. When her Privateer father continually refuses to allow his only daughter to sail, Ellie defies him, disguises herself as a boy, and goes in search of a captain who will give her a chance to prove her worth.
Thanks to the cursed selkie blood coursing through his veins, Daniel O'Rourke needs the sea to survive. After giving up on his humanity and spending three years in seal form, he decides to give his human side another chance. Daniel goes in search of a job and a sense of normalcy, earning himself a position aboard Captain Winter’s ship, The Siren's Call. However, his new captain’s first assignment has nothing at all to do with sailing, and everything to do with his headstrong young daughter.
Years later, when the leader of a band of bloodthirsty pirates murders Captain Winters, Daniel and Elysandra’s lives come crashing back together with the force of a hurricane. Both experts in deception, they must find a way to trust each other if they are to have any hope of hunting down the captain’s killer.
MY REVIEW
Firstly I have to say I like the cover it really does fit the book. The female on the front cover is Elysandra dressed in her "going to sea" gear. Theres a ship in the background that could be either The Sirens Call or The Surf Runner.
Now the book....I loved it. to be totally honest I was unsure if I would really like it as it features pirates, but I loved it. The main character is Elysandra, a strong female lead character who takes no hassle form anyone including pirates! I thought the"love" plot was nicely done and not rushed, you felt the build up to relationship. I on't know how to explain it, other than to say you feel very included in this book as if you are there watching the story unfold before your own eyes. You feel Elysandra's desperation to go to see, but you also feel her parents worry! Elysandra is probably what some would call a tomboy, I prefer to say a woman with a mind of her own. When her father is killed Elysandra is determined to have her revenge with or without help from anyone else.
I also enjoyed the selkie part of the tale especially nearer the end when Daniel is in his "seql form" trying to rescue Elysandra. I won't say anymore you will know what I mean when you read the book.
**WARNING* The book does have a sexual scene within it so is not suitable for younger readers **
Having said the above warning don't let those of you old enough from reading this book as the scene is within the context of the plot and not overly erotic (I don't read erotica!)
The book kind of deals with the idea of prejudice, as in what people think about Selkies. Nelson and Captain winters and his wife know they exist and can interact with them, bit Daniels own father called him an abomination and threw him out of his home at the first opportunity after his mother died.
Will there be more books in this series? Well the loose ends are sort of tied up in a way it could be left, however I am sure Daniel and Elysandra could have lots more adventures at sea and on land.
So did I enjoy the book? Loved it. Would I read more by Rebecca Hart/ in a Call Of The Sea series? Yes & Yes! Do I recommend this book? Yes but due to sexual content to older teens and adults only.
Expected Publication 21st of June 2012, so put it on your to-buy lists now!
Elysandra Winters has always yearned for a life of adventure on the rolling seas and is willing to do whatever it takes to fulfill her dream. When her Privateer father continually refuses to allow his only daughter to sail, Ellie defies him, disguises herself as a boy, and goes in search of a captain who will give her a chance to prove her worth.
Thanks to the cursed selkie blood coursing through his veins, Daniel O'Rourke needs the sea to survive. After giving up on his humanity and spending three years in seal form, he decides to give his human side another chance. Daniel goes in search of a job and a sense of normalcy, earning himself a position aboard Captain Winter’s ship, The Siren's Call. However, his new captain’s first assignment has nothing at all to do with sailing, and everything to do with his headstrong young daughter.
Years later, when the leader of a band of bloodthirsty pirates murders Captain Winters, Daniel and Elysandra’s lives come crashing back together with the force of a hurricane. Both experts in deception, they must find a way to trust each other if they are to have any hope of hunting down the captain’s killer.
MY REVIEW
Firstly I have to say I like the cover it really does fit the book. The female on the front cover is Elysandra dressed in her "going to sea" gear. Theres a ship in the background that could be either The Sirens Call or The Surf Runner.
Now the book....I loved it. to be totally honest I was unsure if I would really like it as it features pirates, but I loved it. The main character is Elysandra, a strong female lead character who takes no hassle form anyone including pirates! I thought the"love" plot was nicely done and not rushed, you felt the build up to relationship. I on't know how to explain it, other than to say you feel very included in this book as if you are there watching the story unfold before your own eyes. You feel Elysandra's desperation to go to see, but you also feel her parents worry! Elysandra is probably what some would call a tomboy, I prefer to say a woman with a mind of her own. When her father is killed Elysandra is determined to have her revenge with or without help from anyone else.
I also enjoyed the selkie part of the tale especially nearer the end when Daniel is in his "seql form" trying to rescue Elysandra. I won't say anymore you will know what I mean when you read the book.
**WARNING* The book does have a sexual scene within it so is not suitable for younger readers **
Having said the above warning don't let those of you old enough from reading this book as the scene is within the context of the plot and not overly erotic (I don't read erotica!)
The book kind of deals with the idea of prejudice, as in what people think about Selkies. Nelson and Captain winters and his wife know they exist and can interact with them, bit Daniels own father called him an abomination and threw him out of his home at the first opportunity after his mother died.
Will there be more books in this series? Well the loose ends are sort of tied up in a way it could be left, however I am sure Daniel and Elysandra could have lots more adventures at sea and on land.
So did I enjoy the book? Loved it. Would I read more by Rebecca Hart/ in a Call Of The Sea series? Yes & Yes! Do I recommend this book? Yes but due to sexual content to older teens and adults only.
Expected Publication 21st of June 2012, so put it on your to-buy lists now!
May 22, 2012
This not my usual type but that cover is gorgeous and I just HAD to read it. When there was a posting for ARC reviews I jumped at the chance and was lucky enough that Rebecca sent me a copy.
This book was everything I don't usually like, it was written in third person and it was set back in the 1600's.However I LOVED IT!! I fell in love with Elysandra, I can't imagine what it would be like to be a young woman who wanted to follow her dreams only to have your sex dictate what you can do. She was determined, strong willed and brave. I would like to think if I was in those situations I would be half as brave as she was to follow her heart & dreams.
Daniel was a true hero. He grew up fast after his mother passed and his father kicked him out of their house. He had no family and was lonely. Luck would have it he would have a chance encounter that would change his life forever and Elysandra's.
The story spans 10 years and it moves fluidly. There isn't a dull moment and the supporting characters are well crafted.Even if you feel like this isn't your cup of tea, I say give it a try, you will probably love it just like me.
I can not thank Rebecca enough for putting up with my emails and being so kind in return. She is a wonderful lady and I wish all the success in the world.
This book was everything I don't usually like, it was written in third person and it was set back in the 1600's.However I LOVED IT!! I fell in love with Elysandra, I can't imagine what it would be like to be a young woman who wanted to follow her dreams only to have your sex dictate what you can do. She was determined, strong willed and brave. I would like to think if I was in those situations I would be half as brave as she was to follow her heart & dreams.
Daniel was a true hero. He grew up fast after his mother passed and his father kicked him out of their house. He had no family and was lonely. Luck would have it he would have a chance encounter that would change his life forever and Elysandra's.
The story spans 10 years and it moves fluidly. There isn't a dull moment and the supporting characters are well crafted.Even if you feel like this isn't your cup of tea, I say give it a try, you will probably love it just like me.
I can not thank Rebecca enough for putting up with my emails and being so kind in return. She is a wonderful lady and I wish all the success in the world.
February 14, 2012
While I am still in the process of reading the final version (my sister happens to be the author - so I may be a little bias) - she had me read it prior to sending it in for publication. I was hooked immediately. Normally these types of books are not to my liking - I prefer Stephen King, Dean Koontz and other "horror" type books. I just would like to say "congrats" to my "big sis" and to let everyone know that this is a wonderful, exciting read!!
May 18, 2012
So what did I think? Awesome. This book made me smile. Ms. Hart expertly combines all the best ingredients for an engaging story with a satisfying end, (though I wanted more). First, the headstrong, independent heroine, Ellie, who knows who she is, wants she wants and doesn’t mince words about it. Next is Daniel, our hero. He’s handsome, intelligent and tough, but with a good dose of integrity and a hint of vulnerability to round him out perfectly.
The pair starts out as childhood friends, and we get the privilege of watching them grow up. All her life, Ellie has longed for a life at sea, and as she grows older, she’s willing to take matters into her own hands when she’s denied the opportunity to sail by her parents. As a selkie, Daniel is tied to the ocean, and to Ellie, by a promise he made to her father long ago. I hate spoilers, so I’ll just say what follows is danger, adventure and romance delivered in a truly elegant package. The pace draws you along effortlessly, and Hart’s unique voice and writing style keeps you turning pages to see what will happen next. Her descriptions are Kodak quality, I felt my toes digging into the sand right along with Ellie.
I highly recommend this book to any and all lovers of paranormal romance. I’m secretly hoping for a sequel! The writing is beautiful and the characters sigh worthy. There is a sex scene included in the story, so I will suggest the book for mature teens and adults only. Call of the Sea is a must read!
The pair starts out as childhood friends, and we get the privilege of watching them grow up. All her life, Ellie has longed for a life at sea, and as she grows older, she’s willing to take matters into her own hands when she’s denied the opportunity to sail by her parents. As a selkie, Daniel is tied to the ocean, and to Ellie, by a promise he made to her father long ago. I hate spoilers, so I’ll just say what follows is danger, adventure and romance delivered in a truly elegant package. The pace draws you along effortlessly, and Hart’s unique voice and writing style keeps you turning pages to see what will happen next. Her descriptions are Kodak quality, I felt my toes digging into the sand right along with Ellie.
I highly recommend this book to any and all lovers of paranormal romance. I’m secretly hoping for a sequel! The writing is beautiful and the characters sigh worthy. There is a sex scene included in the story, so I will suggest the book for mature teens and adults only. Call of the Sea is a must read!
June 15, 2012
One word for this book; WOW!
This was so amazing. It was a very different paranormal romance from all the trends I have been reading. This book gave me some peace and comfort during a dark time during the week. It was truly a remarkable book, I'm glad this book is being published it's a wonderful romance story. The main characters Ellie and Daniel reminded me of Elizabeth Swan and Will turner of Pirates of the Caribbean.
This book is an absolute must read if you are interested in something different from the mermaid trend rising or from other paranormal romances taking up space in the bookshelves. This is something every teenage girl or boy should read, it is truly remarkable and has it all; romance, action and adventure and best of all a happy ending. Well done Rebecca Hart
This was so amazing. It was a very different paranormal romance from all the trends I have been reading. This book gave me some peace and comfort during a dark time during the week. It was truly a remarkable book, I'm glad this book is being published it's a wonderful romance story. The main characters Ellie and Daniel reminded me of Elizabeth Swan and Will turner of Pirates of the Caribbean.
This book is an absolute must read if you are interested in something different from the mermaid trend rising or from other paranormal romances taking up space in the bookshelves. This is something every teenage girl or boy should read, it is truly remarkable and has it all; romance, action and adventure and best of all a happy ending. Well done Rebecca Hart
June 21, 2012
I wrote it... I love it :)
That is all.
That is all.
September 25, 2012
You can read all of my reviews at Alluring Reads.
Actual rating is 3.5.
I have to be honest here, I went into this not expecting much, that cover was a total turn off for me. I'm still not a fan of the cover, and it's really too bad because I do think that it will be a turn off for potential readers (covers matter!) The story behind this cover was exceptionally good, I'll admit I had a hard time walking away from it to get stuff done around my house. Within these pages is a great paranormal romance tale that will most definitely take you by surprise.
I am not one for historical books, as a matter of fact I tend to run from them like the plague but the idea of pirates and a kickass heroine sucked me in. To show how little I knew going into this novel I'll let you in on a secret; I thought "selkie" was another name for a pirate! Well, as you can deduce, when I realised that one of our MC's was a seal and he shifted into a human I was more than a little surprised.
As I mentioned the thing that drew me to this story was how strong I pictured Elysandra Winters to be and she was just that. Ellie had the strength to go after what she wanted even though she had an immense amount of obstacles in her way. In that time women were seen as bad luck on a ship and her dream was to work on a ship, despite this she went after her dream and became a well respected privateer. She was also very protective of her heart, she wasn't about to give it to just anyone and in my eyes Daniel was the right guy for that. Daniel was a sweet, caring character that I fell for almost immediately. Yes, he was half seal and that was kind of weird but his intense need to protect Ellie at all cost's was endearing. The romance between these two is quite sweet and it grows very strong, leading to a very 18+ scene, so this one is definitely not for the kiddos! One thing that I longed for in this character was more knowledge of his selkie side. Often Daniel thought about how, when in his seal form, he was paying his debt for the year, but this debt is never explained. I would have liked to have known more of the selkie lore so that I knew exactly what he was referring to.
The novel has great pacing and it keeps you sucked in but the ending felt quite abrupt and rushed. There was so much substance in the middle when they were back in Newquay and then their final mission is limited to very few pages. I would have liked to have seen more of a struggle to achieve their goal, after all that build up I felt a little robbed by the ending. Despite my few complaints I still recommend this one to anyone looking for something a little different. The premise was unique and the story was engrossing.
A copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Actual rating is 3.5.
I have to be honest here, I went into this not expecting much, that cover was a total turn off for me. I'm still not a fan of the cover, and it's really too bad because I do think that it will be a turn off for potential readers (covers matter!) The story behind this cover was exceptionally good, I'll admit I had a hard time walking away from it to get stuff done around my house. Within these pages is a great paranormal romance tale that will most definitely take you by surprise.
I am not one for historical books, as a matter of fact I tend to run from them like the plague but the idea of pirates and a kickass heroine sucked me in. To show how little I knew going into this novel I'll let you in on a secret; I thought "selkie" was another name for a pirate! Well, as you can deduce, when I realised that one of our MC's was a seal and he shifted into a human I was more than a little surprised.
As I mentioned the thing that drew me to this story was how strong I pictured Elysandra Winters to be and she was just that. Ellie had the strength to go after what she wanted even though she had an immense amount of obstacles in her way. In that time women were seen as bad luck on a ship and her dream was to work on a ship, despite this she went after her dream and became a well respected privateer. She was also very protective of her heart, she wasn't about to give it to just anyone and in my eyes Daniel was the right guy for that. Daniel was a sweet, caring character that I fell for almost immediately. Yes, he was half seal and that was kind of weird but his intense need to protect Ellie at all cost's was endearing. The romance between these two is quite sweet and it grows very strong, leading to a very 18+ scene, so this one is definitely not for the kiddos! One thing that I longed for in this character was more knowledge of his selkie side. Often Daniel thought about how, when in his seal form, he was paying his debt for the year, but this debt is never explained. I would have liked to have known more of the selkie lore so that I knew exactly what he was referring to.
The novel has great pacing and it keeps you sucked in but the ending felt quite abrupt and rushed. There was so much substance in the middle when they were back in Newquay and then their final mission is limited to very few pages. I would have liked to have seen more of a struggle to achieve their goal, after all that build up I felt a little robbed by the ending. Despite my few complaints I still recommend this one to anyone looking for something a little different. The premise was unique and the story was engrossing.
A copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2012
Rating 4.5
At the age of ten, Daniel's father kicks him out after the death of his mother. After three years on his own, he spies Captain Winters' returning home from a stint at sea to celebrate his daughter Ellie's tenth birthday. That only saddens Daniel, wishing that he's had a loving father like Ellie's. So Daniel decides to shed his sealskin and ask Captain Winters for a job on his ship.
Ellie has always wanted to be a privateer like her father. And although Michael Winters knows how his daughter yearn to be at sea, she is just too young. When Daniel saves Ellie, Michael realizes that he's a selkie, and instead of taking him with him on his next trip, he gives Daniel the tasks of looking out for Ellie while he's gone. But after five years, Ellie's had enough and takes matters into her own hands.
This books has some awesome characters in it. I loved the interaction between Ellie and Daniel, Daniel and Captain Winters, Ellie and her mother Amelia, and Ellie and Nelson, a sailor on Captain Harris' ship whom she meets when she runs away. Nelson realizes that Ellie (going by the name of Ellis) is not a boy like she pretends to be, and he befriends her, keeps her secret, and protects her.
From the moment that Daniel saw Ellie that first day, he loved her, but he never told her. Not until ten years later after Captain Winters is killed. But he's afraid of telling Ellie his secret for fear she won't accept him if she knew. Not only is Daniel hiding things from Ellie, so was her father. And Daniel doesn't want to taint Ellie's memory of her father by having her find out.
One thing that I really would have liked to read more about was Daniel's selkie side, and there were a few errors, but nothing that was too distracting. Plus, I really, really would have liked to read more about Daniel and Ellie, so I'm hoping that there is a sequel in the works.
Call of the Sea is swashbuckling adventure on the high seas. There is action, mystery, betrayal, adventure and romance. Once I started reading, I didn't want to put it down. There were nail biting moments, funny moments, and sad moments that had me in tears. I definitely recommend it!
** I received an eARC copy of the book from InkSpell Publishing for review.**
At the age of ten, Daniel's father kicks him out after the death of his mother. After three years on his own, he spies Captain Winters' returning home from a stint at sea to celebrate his daughter Ellie's tenth birthday. That only saddens Daniel, wishing that he's had a loving father like Ellie's. So Daniel decides to shed his sealskin and ask Captain Winters for a job on his ship.
Ellie has always wanted to be a privateer like her father. And although Michael Winters knows how his daughter yearn to be at sea, she is just too young. When Daniel saves Ellie, Michael realizes that he's a selkie, and instead of taking him with him on his next trip, he gives Daniel the tasks of looking out for Ellie while he's gone. But after five years, Ellie's had enough and takes matters into her own hands.
This books has some awesome characters in it. I loved the interaction between Ellie and Daniel, Daniel and Captain Winters, Ellie and her mother Amelia, and Ellie and Nelson, a sailor on Captain Harris' ship whom she meets when she runs away. Nelson realizes that Ellie (going by the name of Ellis) is not a boy like she pretends to be, and he befriends her, keeps her secret, and protects her.
From the moment that Daniel saw Ellie that first day, he loved her, but he never told her. Not until ten years later after Captain Winters is killed. But he's afraid of telling Ellie his secret for fear she won't accept him if she knew. Not only is Daniel hiding things from Ellie, so was her father. And Daniel doesn't want to taint Ellie's memory of her father by having her find out.
One thing that I really would have liked to read more about was Daniel's selkie side, and there were a few errors, but nothing that was too distracting. Plus, I really, really would have liked to read more about Daniel and Ellie, so I'm hoping that there is a sequel in the works.
Call of the Sea is swashbuckling adventure on the high seas. There is action, mystery, betrayal, adventure and romance. Once I started reading, I didn't want to put it down. There were nail biting moments, funny moments, and sad moments that had me in tears. I definitely recommend it!
** I received an eARC copy of the book from InkSpell Publishing for review.**
May 19, 2012
Ms. Hart wrote a truly engaging tale of a girl named Ellie who is different from most other girls in her time. Ellie transforms into a courageous and independent woman through the course of the novel. The interaction between Ellie and her selkie love interest, Daniel, tangled with revenge and both main characters call of the sea. I truly enjoyed the double play on the idea of the call of the sea and how it can be different for everyone. Ellie’s call came from her desire to be like her father, it came from love and adventure. Daniel’s call came from what he believes is a curse and is actually a more primal need to be out in the sea. The duality played well off of each other, with secrets inlaid into the characters and plot.
One of the main things I truly enjoyed about this book is Hart’s heroine, Ellie. As a child or a woman she never backed down from her dreams or what she truly wanted to do. This driving forced put her in dangerous situations and held true to a solid female leading role, one that others can look up to.
Hart’s ability in dialogue to produce a character who was not only smart, but witty gave a remarkable appeal to the book. Ellie fights consistently with Daniel and they play off each other as if they were made for one another. The romance between them is not only heated in some parts but cold and fierce in others which has a terrific similarity to the rushing sea where closer to shore it has a warmer feeling while the further out you swim the icy cold pierces the flesh.
The one thing I did have a difficult time with was the abrupt ending. I feel the author could have pulled it further out to give it a finished feel. Otherwise, the book as a whole gets four stars.
One of the main things I truly enjoyed about this book is Hart’s heroine, Ellie. As a child or a woman she never backed down from her dreams or what she truly wanted to do. This driving forced put her in dangerous situations and held true to a solid female leading role, one that others can look up to.
Hart’s ability in dialogue to produce a character who was not only smart, but witty gave a remarkable appeal to the book. Ellie fights consistently with Daniel and they play off each other as if they were made for one another. The romance between them is not only heated in some parts but cold and fierce in others which has a terrific similarity to the rushing sea where closer to shore it has a warmer feeling while the further out you swim the icy cold pierces the flesh.
The one thing I did have a difficult time with was the abrupt ending. I feel the author could have pulled it further out to give it a finished feel. Otherwise, the book as a whole gets four stars.
May 15, 2012
Let me start by saying I love selkies, and pirates are pretty awesome too. So, when I had the opportunity to read a romance between a girl pirate and a male selkie, I could hardly wait. Call of the Sea, by Rebecca Hart, was the romantic adventure I hoped it to be.
Right from the start, the main character, Ellie, got my attention with her headstrong impulsiveness. In a time where women were raised to be chattel, she longed for her independence, and, most of all, to explore the open sea.
But it was Daniel who really won me over. His connection to Ellie began in childhood when he befriended her in his seal form. (I always wanted a pet seal!) Daniel is a good romantic lead. Just as headstrong as Ellie, his inner warmth and goodness makes him very lovable. You can't help but fall for his beauty and sincerity. While he's masculine and strong, there's a powerful yin of gentleness and integrity inside him that balances out Ellie's tomboyish yang. I rooted for him through the entire novel. The love story between him and Ellie is a very believable battle of wills, that makes for great chemistry.
I don't like spoilers in reviews, so I'm not going to give away the plot. You can read more about Call of the Sea here. In my opinion, it's a vividly-written, lovely romance and an action-packed adventure that I didn't want to end.
January 30, 2016
What a treasure to be found in this book with pirates, a selkie, adventure and a love story. I could feel the wind on my face and smell the salty sea right from the first page. Elysandra is a strong heroine that keeps you engaged and in anticipation of what she will do next. I really enjoyed this book and could not put it down.
June 20, 2012
CALL OF THE SEA came recommended by an email I received from the book’s publicist. I had not heard of this book before she reached out and let me know about it, and now I just have to send a big thanks to Kelly for telling me about this. CALL OF THE SEA is one of those low key books that rises up and becomes something more, something almost spectacular, but something about it just fell a little short to me. Nevertheless, I loved this story and can’t wait to read more by Rebecca Hart. I finished it in about 90 minutes and came away with such a bright smile on my face, but let me just say that I wanted to know more! MORE MORE MORE!
Following young Ellie, the daughter of a captain who wants nothing more than to be a captain, and the cursed selkie Daniel, CALL OF THE SEA takes place in the time of pirates and privateers, wars between the Dutch and English, evil masterminds in Gibraltar and selkies. SELKIES. Side note, my ancestor was captured by the Dutch in this war. Last British admiral ever captured by the enemy. He wasn’t very good at his job.
The back stories for Daniel and Ellie were probably my favorite part, especially since it is intricately woven into the story – mostly because it was part of the story itself. We start off with their childhoods – Ellie at age 10, saved from drowning by a seal who becomes her friend, never knowing that this seal is actually a boy whom she loathes for taking her place in her father’s crew. And Ellie was a girl after my own heart. I felt for her and her troubles – her desperation to succeed, her adoration for her father, her anger at Daniel betraying her.
But this isn’t just a story about a 10 year old girl and her seal friend. The story evolves and we go through several periods in Ellie’s life – her parents sending her to finishing school to keep her safe, her decision to sneak away and become a cabin boy, her realization that her father still loves her. And Daniel! Can you say swoon? I loved Daniel. He was multilayered and complex, complete with his own problems and desires, his caring of Ellie and his desire to protect her family and the man who took him under his wing.
And there is fighting! Canons, swords, guns, bickering!
This is a story with emotion AND action. What more can a girl ask for? In this story that blends genres and age categories, from middle grade to new adult, there were a few LITTLE nitpicks I had. Like the romance…
Yes, I loved Daniel, and yes, I loved Ellie, but together? Maybe it just felt rushed to me, like they just suddenly decided they had to be together and VOILA! They were together and happy. And like the romance, at 278 pages this one feels a bit short and rushed. Maybe there could have been a bit more description – the story focused on the characters more than the setting, even if the setting was well done. I just wanted to know more about this world and curses! Just a little more fleshing out would have done the story wonders.
VERDICT: If you are looking for a quick, delightful summer read with action, romance, and a setting to die for, I think you will have a lot to love about CALL OF THE SEA. Give this one a shot. You might be surprised.
Following young Ellie, the daughter of a captain who wants nothing more than to be a captain, and the cursed selkie Daniel, CALL OF THE SEA takes place in the time of pirates and privateers, wars between the Dutch and English, evil masterminds in Gibraltar and selkies. SELKIES. Side note, my ancestor was captured by the Dutch in this war. Last British admiral ever captured by the enemy. He wasn’t very good at his job.
The back stories for Daniel and Ellie were probably my favorite part, especially since it is intricately woven into the story – mostly because it was part of the story itself. We start off with their childhoods – Ellie at age 10, saved from drowning by a seal who becomes her friend, never knowing that this seal is actually a boy whom she loathes for taking her place in her father’s crew. And Ellie was a girl after my own heart. I felt for her and her troubles – her desperation to succeed, her adoration for her father, her anger at Daniel betraying her.
But this isn’t just a story about a 10 year old girl and her seal friend. The story evolves and we go through several periods in Ellie’s life – her parents sending her to finishing school to keep her safe, her decision to sneak away and become a cabin boy, her realization that her father still loves her. And Daniel! Can you say swoon? I loved Daniel. He was multilayered and complex, complete with his own problems and desires, his caring of Ellie and his desire to protect her family and the man who took him under his wing.
And there is fighting! Canons, swords, guns, bickering!
This is a story with emotion AND action. What more can a girl ask for? In this story that blends genres and age categories, from middle grade to new adult, there were a few LITTLE nitpicks I had. Like the romance…
Yes, I loved Daniel, and yes, I loved Ellie, but together? Maybe it just felt rushed to me, like they just suddenly decided they had to be together and VOILA! They were together and happy. And like the romance, at 278 pages this one feels a bit short and rushed. Maybe there could have been a bit more description – the story focused on the characters more than the setting, even if the setting was well done. I just wanted to know more about this world and curses! Just a little more fleshing out would have done the story wonders.
VERDICT: If you are looking for a quick, delightful summer read with action, romance, and a setting to die for, I think you will have a lot to love about CALL OF THE SEA. Give this one a shot. You might be surprised.
June 12, 2012
GENRE: Fantasy
THEME: Selkie
RECEIVED: Received for review for Tour
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
I haven’t read many or enough stories based on the legend of Selkies, but every time I do I always enjoy them. Rebecca Hart brings to life a story about two people who are very different but are brought together by their love of the sea.
Elysandra (Ellie) is the daughter of a Captain; her love of the sea at a young age has made her wish for a life like her fathers. But her parents have different plans for her, thus causing Ellie to run away disguised as young boy on another ship. Then there is Daniel who lives with the curse of having Selkie blood and needs to be near the ocean to survive, he meets Ellies father who assigns him a task he couldn’t refused.
Call of the Sea follows both Ellie and Daniel as children all the way to their adult years. After Daniel saves Ellie from drowning, he applies for a job on her fathers ship called the Sirens Call. While Ellie is sent of to school after the incident, which later makes her run away. Years later the two meet up again and their adventure at sea begins.
Ellie at age ten is a strong and very much a tomboy. Just like her father she wants to be at the sea and as she grows older becomes frustrated with not being allowed to be like her father. Ellie disguises herself as a boy at age fifteen and continues on her journey until twenty without anyone knowing. I enjoyed Ellie as the lead character, no matter what she wouldn’t give up on her dream and wanted to prove she could be apart of the crew. The only part I was iffy on was that know one noticed she was a girl for five years.
Daniel is cursed with Selkie blood and he forms a bond with Ellie, little known to her, in his selkie form. As he gets older he becomes very devoted to helping Ellies father find his missing daughter. When they meet again in the future their connection is instant and I enjoyed every scene with them together. I found it interesting how Hart describe Daniels transformation, into his Selkie form, which was very detailed and gave an understanding to what Daniel is.
Overall this story was fun and full of action and lots of romance. My only issue was the ending didn’t feel finished. It definitely was left to show that there is more to come but was almost rushed. Nonetheless I want to know what is next for Daniel and Ellie because now they have a whole knew future ahead of them. I don’t want to give away too much more, but I recommend this as a great summer read.
RECOMMENDATION:
This is a mature young adult story with some sexual content meant for mature readers. Fans of mythological creatures of the sea will not want to miss out on Call of the Sea by Rebecca Hart.
THEME: Selkie
RECEIVED: Received for review for Tour
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
I haven’t read many or enough stories based on the legend of Selkies, but every time I do I always enjoy them. Rebecca Hart brings to life a story about two people who are very different but are brought together by their love of the sea.
Elysandra (Ellie) is the daughter of a Captain; her love of the sea at a young age has made her wish for a life like her fathers. But her parents have different plans for her, thus causing Ellie to run away disguised as young boy on another ship. Then there is Daniel who lives with the curse of having Selkie blood and needs to be near the ocean to survive, he meets Ellies father who assigns him a task he couldn’t refused.
Call of the Sea follows both Ellie and Daniel as children all the way to their adult years. After Daniel saves Ellie from drowning, he applies for a job on her fathers ship called the Sirens Call. While Ellie is sent of to school after the incident, which later makes her run away. Years later the two meet up again and their adventure at sea begins.
Ellie at age ten is a strong and very much a tomboy. Just like her father she wants to be at the sea and as she grows older becomes frustrated with not being allowed to be like her father. Ellie disguises herself as a boy at age fifteen and continues on her journey until twenty without anyone knowing. I enjoyed Ellie as the lead character, no matter what she wouldn’t give up on her dream and wanted to prove she could be apart of the crew. The only part I was iffy on was that know one noticed she was a girl for five years.
Daniel is cursed with Selkie blood and he forms a bond with Ellie, little known to her, in his selkie form. As he gets older he becomes very devoted to helping Ellies father find his missing daughter. When they meet again in the future their connection is instant and I enjoyed every scene with them together. I found it interesting how Hart describe Daniels transformation, into his Selkie form, which was very detailed and gave an understanding to what Daniel is.
Overall this story was fun and full of action and lots of romance. My only issue was the ending didn’t feel finished. It definitely was left to show that there is more to come but was almost rushed. Nonetheless I want to know what is next for Daniel and Ellie because now they have a whole knew future ahead of them. I don’t want to give away too much more, but I recommend this as a great summer read.
RECOMMENDATION:
This is a mature young adult story with some sexual content meant for mature readers. Fans of mythological creatures of the sea will not want to miss out on Call of the Sea by Rebecca Hart.
August 25, 2015
I received a copy of Call of the Sea in exchange for my honest review.
Blurb from Goodreads…
Elysandra Winters has always yearned for a life of adventure on the rolling seas and is willing to do whatever it takes to fulfill her dream. When her Privateer father continually refuses to allow his only daughter to sail, Ellie defies him, disguises herself as a boy, and goes in search of a captain who will give her a chance to prove her worth.
Thanks to the cursed selkie blood coursing through his veins, Daniel O'Rourke needs the sea to survive. After giving up on his humanity and spending three years in seal form, he decides to give his human side another chance. Daniel goes in search of a job and a sense of normalcy, earning himself a position aboard Captain Winter's ship, The Siren's Call. However, his new captain's first assignment has nothing at all to do with sailing, and everything to do with his headstrong young daughter.
Years later, when the leader of a band of bloodthirsty pirates murders Captain Winters, Daniel and Elysandra's lives come crashing back together with the force of a hurricane. Both experts in deception, they must find a way to trust each other in order to quell the raging storm between them or have any hope of hunting down the captain's killer.
My review…
I started the story with an open mind, not really sure if it was something I would like, as I’m usually not one to read shifter stories. I was pleasantly surprised, and enjoyed the story immensely! This is a great love story with strong characters… Elysandra (Ellie) is a strong leading lady who does not take no for an answer (My kinda gal!!) and Daniel is a protective Alpha Male.
I love historical romance, and this did not disappoint as it takes place during the 1600’s… at a time when superstitions ran high, and gender roles were very clear cut. Seeing Ellie break so many “rules” was so much fun to read. I loved how everything was interwoven… Ellie needing to be near the sea, Daniel being a Selkie, her father bringing the two together.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to read such a great story!
Blurb from Goodreads…
Elysandra Winters has always yearned for a life of adventure on the rolling seas and is willing to do whatever it takes to fulfill her dream. When her Privateer father continually refuses to allow his only daughter to sail, Ellie defies him, disguises herself as a boy, and goes in search of a captain who will give her a chance to prove her worth.
Thanks to the cursed selkie blood coursing through his veins, Daniel O'Rourke needs the sea to survive. After giving up on his humanity and spending three years in seal form, he decides to give his human side another chance. Daniel goes in search of a job and a sense of normalcy, earning himself a position aboard Captain Winter's ship, The Siren's Call. However, his new captain's first assignment has nothing at all to do with sailing, and everything to do with his headstrong young daughter.
Years later, when the leader of a band of bloodthirsty pirates murders Captain Winters, Daniel and Elysandra's lives come crashing back together with the force of a hurricane. Both experts in deception, they must find a way to trust each other in order to quell the raging storm between them or have any hope of hunting down the captain's killer.
My review…
I started the story with an open mind, not really sure if it was something I would like, as I’m usually not one to read shifter stories. I was pleasantly surprised, and enjoyed the story immensely! This is a great love story with strong characters… Elysandra (Ellie) is a strong leading lady who does not take no for an answer (My kinda gal!!) and Daniel is a protective Alpha Male.
I love historical romance, and this did not disappoint as it takes place during the 1600’s… at a time when superstitions ran high, and gender roles were very clear cut. Seeing Ellie break so many “rules” was so much fun to read. I loved how everything was interwoven… Ellie needing to be near the sea, Daniel being a Selkie, her father bringing the two together.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to read such a great story!
September 20, 2015
Call of the Sea is an action packed romance that kept me intrigued on how it was going to end. Daniel O'Rourke was thrown out by his father at the age of ten on the death of his mother, the only thing his father gave him was a bag with a seal skin in. His mum used to tell him stories of selkies and after touching the skin he too turns into a selkie. After three years in seal form Daniel wants to go back to human form and get a job and approaches Captain Winters for a job and was told to go back the next day for his orders.
From a very early age Elysandra Winters has wanted to go to sea with her father - only to be denied at every turn, so one night the headstrong young girl tries to swim out to the Siren's Call - her fathers ship if it was not for Daniel in his selkie form she would have died. On getting back to shore Daniel changes and tries to save Ellie and this is where Captain Winters comes upon them. He knows what Daniel his and does not have a problem with it and asks the young lad to befriend Ellie in his seal form until she goes to boarding school, so that she does not feel so alone.
Years later Ellie still feels the call of the sea and dresses as a boy and goes and gets herself a job on her father's competitors ship, where she shows them as Ellis how good she is. Captain Winters is distraught on the disappearance of his daughter and spends years trying to find her.
The story continues with the death of Captain Winters by pirates and Ellis and his friends freeing Daniel and the shipmates from their grasp. Ellie still keeps her identity a secret but Daniel knows whom she is straight away and they join together to avenge the death of her father, learning that they must trust each other in order to survive.
This book kept me entertained with the action and budding love story. I would definitely recommend it too all lovers of historical paranormal romance readers.
From a very early age Elysandra Winters has wanted to go to sea with her father - only to be denied at every turn, so one night the headstrong young girl tries to swim out to the Siren's Call - her fathers ship if it was not for Daniel in his selkie form she would have died. On getting back to shore Daniel changes and tries to save Ellie and this is where Captain Winters comes upon them. He knows what Daniel his and does not have a problem with it and asks the young lad to befriend Ellie in his seal form until she goes to boarding school, so that she does not feel so alone.
Years later Ellie still feels the call of the sea and dresses as a boy and goes and gets herself a job on her father's competitors ship, where she shows them as Ellis how good she is. Captain Winters is distraught on the disappearance of his daughter and spends years trying to find her.
The story continues with the death of Captain Winters by pirates and Ellis and his friends freeing Daniel and the shipmates from their grasp. Ellie still keeps her identity a secret but Daniel knows whom she is straight away and they join together to avenge the death of her father, learning that they must trust each other in order to survive.
This book kept me entertained with the action and budding love story. I would definitely recommend it too all lovers of historical paranormal romance readers.
February 2, 2013
4 and 1/2 Stars! Unusual 17th Century Historical Romance on the High Seas—Pirates, Privateers and a Selkie!
Set in the 17th century in England, Gibraltar and on the sea, this is the story of Elysandra (“Ellie”) Winters, the young daughter of a ship’s captain who has always wanted to join her father in his life at sea. Daniel O'Rourke, who lives part of his life in the sea as a selkie, upon seeing the love between the 10 year-old Ellie and her father, decides to take a job with Ellie’s father on his ship, Siren's Call. However, his first assignment is not as the cabin boy he will become, but to protect the captain’s daughter.
Soon, Ellie’s father sends her away to school. After five years, Ellie decides she’s had enough, and at 15, disguises herself as a boy and runs away to sea on a competitor’s ship, much to the dismay of her mother.
Years later, after Daniel has been at sea with Captain Winters and promoted to First Mate, and Ellie has become a favored crewmember on another ship, the leader of a band of bloodthirsty Corsair pirates murders Captain Winters off the coast of Gibraltar. Ellie’s captain saves her father’s ship, and Daniel and Ellie are thrown together to seek vengeance for the death of the man they both loved.
Hart weaves an intriguing tale and seamlessly integrates the fantasy element so it seems a part of the reality. Daniel is a worthy hero who accepts his lot in life but works hard to attain the approval of Ellie’s father—and Ellie’s love. One had to feel sorry for Ellie who lost years of her father’s love thinking he did not understand her. But, alas, such is life. The story has some great action scenes and some tender moments. I agree that the ending seemed a bit rushed and would have liked an added last chapter, but all in all, it was very enjoyable. I recommend it.
Set in the 17th century in England, Gibraltar and on the sea, this is the story of Elysandra (“Ellie”) Winters, the young daughter of a ship’s captain who has always wanted to join her father in his life at sea. Daniel O'Rourke, who lives part of his life in the sea as a selkie, upon seeing the love between the 10 year-old Ellie and her father, decides to take a job with Ellie’s father on his ship, Siren's Call. However, his first assignment is not as the cabin boy he will become, but to protect the captain’s daughter.
Soon, Ellie’s father sends her away to school. After five years, Ellie decides she’s had enough, and at 15, disguises herself as a boy and runs away to sea on a competitor’s ship, much to the dismay of her mother.
Years later, after Daniel has been at sea with Captain Winters and promoted to First Mate, and Ellie has become a favored crewmember on another ship, the leader of a band of bloodthirsty Corsair pirates murders Captain Winters off the coast of Gibraltar. Ellie’s captain saves her father’s ship, and Daniel and Ellie are thrown together to seek vengeance for the death of the man they both loved.
Hart weaves an intriguing tale and seamlessly integrates the fantasy element so it seems a part of the reality. Daniel is a worthy hero who accepts his lot in life but works hard to attain the approval of Ellie’s father—and Ellie’s love. One had to feel sorry for Ellie who lost years of her father’s love thinking he did not understand her. But, alas, such is life. The story has some great action scenes and some tender moments. I agree that the ending seemed a bit rushed and would have liked an added last chapter, but all in all, it was very enjoyable. I recommend it.
September 21, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review over on my blog (Pretty Little Book Blog)
One of my favorite mythology stories is the Selkies. You hear about them in a lot of Irish mythology and even in popular fiction (For example in Diana Garbaldon's Outlander Series) from start to finish this book has very picturesque settings and scenes that will stick with you long after you finish the book.
Ellie and Daniel meet under well, not so normal circumstances haha but they don't let that stop them! I love Ellie's character she dosen't let herself be pigeonholed by society given gender roles. In the beginning of the book we see her constantly arguing with her father about not needing another dress and that she can become a captain of a ship like her father runs. She is very fiery and fun and I think that spark is what draws Daniel to her. She stands out that's for sure!
Ellie feels that the sea is in her blood and somehow the sea holds her destiny and she has no idea how right she is. Why, she even goes so far as disguising herself as a boy so she could take a position as a cabin boy on a ship after spending 5 years at boarding school. Over the years Ellie and Daniel keep popping in and out of each other's orbit and this gradually leads to them beginning a more intimate relationship.
I thought this book was extremely well written and paced to where something was always going on that you needed to pay attention to.
I've loved stories of the high seas and these huge ships and the lives that take place on them. It's a fantastic weekend read! I wouldn't miss this book if I were you!
One of my favorite mythology stories is the Selkies. You hear about them in a lot of Irish mythology and even in popular fiction (For example in Diana Garbaldon's Outlander Series) from start to finish this book has very picturesque settings and scenes that will stick with you long after you finish the book.
Ellie and Daniel meet under well, not so normal circumstances haha but they don't let that stop them! I love Ellie's character she dosen't let herself be pigeonholed by society given gender roles. In the beginning of the book we see her constantly arguing with her father about not needing another dress and that she can become a captain of a ship like her father runs. She is very fiery and fun and I think that spark is what draws Daniel to her. She stands out that's for sure!
Ellie feels that the sea is in her blood and somehow the sea holds her destiny and she has no idea how right she is. Why, she even goes so far as disguising herself as a boy so she could take a position as a cabin boy on a ship after spending 5 years at boarding school. Over the years Ellie and Daniel keep popping in and out of each other's orbit and this gradually leads to them beginning a more intimate relationship.
I thought this book was extremely well written and paced to where something was always going on that you needed to pay attention to.
I've loved stories of the high seas and these huge ships and the lives that take place on them. It's a fantastic weekend read! I wouldn't miss this book if I were you!
May 27, 2012
Oh my golly, I just loved Call of the Sea by Rebecca Hart! What a delightful little gem of a fantasy novel this one was! With her debut novel, Rebecca Hart takes a new look at the myth of the selkie, all wrapped up in a wonderful story of pirates and sailors.
Call of the Sea took a bit to get into. There was a lot of set up and world building going on in the first half of the book. Then the story just took off from there. The story was so intriguing. Call of the Sea is told in dual perspectives - from Daniel and Ellie's point of view, which worked out really nicely. Hearing both characters sides of the story was pretty great - I really enjoyed both of their voices.
I really loved the characters. Nelson was hands down my favorite character of the book - he was so charismatic, awesome, and kind of adorable. Ellie was a really spunky main character and I really admired her strength to go out and get what she wanted. I also really like Daniel - I fell for him right from the start.
My sole complaint about Call of the Sea would be that I wish a bit more had happened. I felt like for how long the book was nothing was completely resolved. The story was still great and I really enjoyed it, I was just left feeling like I wanted more. There was no complete conclusion. Which is could be a good thing, as I would love to dive back into Ellie and Daniel's world should there ever be a sequel.
Call of the Sea was a pretty stellar debut. I thought it had a few flaws, but overall was a great read. Anyone who loves a good fantasy read will not want to miss this one!
Call of the Sea took a bit to get into. There was a lot of set up and world building going on in the first half of the book. Then the story just took off from there. The story was so intriguing. Call of the Sea is told in dual perspectives - from Daniel and Ellie's point of view, which worked out really nicely. Hearing both characters sides of the story was pretty great - I really enjoyed both of their voices.
I really loved the characters. Nelson was hands down my favorite character of the book - he was so charismatic, awesome, and kind of adorable. Ellie was a really spunky main character and I really admired her strength to go out and get what she wanted. I also really like Daniel - I fell for him right from the start.
My sole complaint about Call of the Sea would be that I wish a bit more had happened. I felt like for how long the book was nothing was completely resolved. The story was still great and I really enjoyed it, I was just left feeling like I wanted more. There was no complete conclusion. Which is could be a good thing, as I would love to dive back into Ellie and Daniel's world should there ever be a sequel.
Call of the Sea was a pretty stellar debut. I thought it had a few flaws, but overall was a great read. Anyone who loves a good fantasy read will not want to miss this one!
March 2, 2015
This book gets a solid 3.7 out of 5 stars from me. It was too easy for me to relegate to treadmill time or a chapter when I was stranded away from home to get anything higher.
I don't know much about the selkie mythology, so I was eager to learn more. That didn't really happen in this book. There was an expectation that readers would know why it was considered a curse, how it came about and the like. The actual transformation process was excellently vivid with Hart's writing. I could hear the popping bones and feel the stretching muscles. But I would have liked to learn more about the mythology behind it - just a few sentences when the other hints are dropped.
I never felt fully invested in the characters. I pondered why and I think it is because I didn't relate to their motivations. I always find it difficult to believe 17th century women long for the masculine life of pirating and sailing. The neglected orphan thing is overused and because the selkie curse wasn't further described for me, I had a hard time understanding where Daniel was coming from with his hurt and secrecy.
The pairing of these two characters made for plenty of conflict and a great story.
There was only one truly erotic scene in the book, so it wasn't that aspect that turned me away. The writing was strong and all the elements of a great romance - secrets, lies, attraction - were all present. It just didn't knock my socks off. If you like pirate romances with swashbuckling and humor, this is the book for you.
I don't know much about the selkie mythology, so I was eager to learn more. That didn't really happen in this book. There was an expectation that readers would know why it was considered a curse, how it came about and the like. The actual transformation process was excellently vivid with Hart's writing. I could hear the popping bones and feel the stretching muscles. But I would have liked to learn more about the mythology behind it - just a few sentences when the other hints are dropped.
I never felt fully invested in the characters. I pondered why and I think it is because I didn't relate to their motivations. I always find it difficult to believe 17th century women long for the masculine life of pirating and sailing. The neglected orphan thing is overused and because the selkie curse wasn't further described for me, I had a hard time understanding where Daniel was coming from with his hurt and secrecy.
The pairing of these two characters made for plenty of conflict and a great story.
There was only one truly erotic scene in the book, so it wasn't that aspect that turned me away. The writing was strong and all the elements of a great romance - secrets, lies, attraction - were all present. It just didn't knock my socks off. If you like pirate romances with swashbuckling and humor, this is the book for you.
June 26, 2012
Ellie Winters longs for the sea and would do almost anything to live her life on it, including running away from boarding school and starting a new life as Ellis. Call of the Sea by Rebecca Hart starts out with a sweet and gentle pace, but once Ellie and Daniel collide as adults the story gets rolling. Daniel happens to be a young selkie man with a tragic past who is in love with Ellie. Ellie is a stubborn young woman with a steadfast head on her shoulders that refuses to admit she loves Daniel. Pushed together by tragedy the reader is able to watch these two grow as individuals and as a couple while they try to avenge a loved ones death.
My thoughts:
I really enjoyed reading this book. Selkie stories have always drawn me in and this was such an amazing telling of the Irish folklore. Hart instantly had me connecting with Ellie, a girl who longs for something that she doesn’t think she can have. Who doesn’t relate to Ellie on that point? She is such a fierce and strong willed character and I really enjoyed reading a strong female lead.
I seriously hope that Rebecca Hart will continue on with this story because I cannot wait to read more about Ellie and Daniel!
My thoughts:
I really enjoyed reading this book. Selkie stories have always drawn me in and this was such an amazing telling of the Irish folklore. Hart instantly had me connecting with Ellie, a girl who longs for something that she doesn’t think she can have. Who doesn’t relate to Ellie on that point? She is such a fierce and strong willed character and I really enjoyed reading a strong female lead.
I seriously hope that Rebecca Hart will continue on with this story because I cannot wait to read more about Ellie and Daniel!
October 1, 2012
I'm a fan of stories set at sea, so Call Of The Sea was an enjoyable read for me.
Elysandra is headstrong and impulsive and adventurous. Daniel is patient, adores Elysandra and works for her father. And he is a Selkie. I love Selkies, interesting creatures. It was great reading how they first met, see them fall inlove years later.
I felt that it took long to get to the story's main action, and the ending came too soon. It's a wonderful romantic and adventures story nonetheless.
I like Ms Hart's writing style, and great her descriptions, so that was a plus for me.
Recommended to fans of paranormal historical stories, stories set at sea.
Elysandra is headstrong and impulsive and adventurous. Daniel is patient, adores Elysandra and works for her father. And he is a Selkie. I love Selkies, interesting creatures. It was great reading how they first met, see them fall inlove years later.
I felt that it took long to get to the story's main action, and the ending came too soon. It's a wonderful romantic and adventures story nonetheless.
I like Ms Hart's writing style, and great her descriptions, so that was a plus for me.
Recommended to fans of paranormal historical stories, stories set at sea.
September 29, 2012
Call of the Sea is a lovely young adult novel starring Ellie and her dream of becoming a privateer on a ship. Love her spunk and her passion and drive for the life she wants at sea. Her relationship with Nelson is great. Love Daniel, sweet and wounded by his past, and the relationship he had with Captain Winters is real and touching. The dialogue was good and the scenery and experiences aboard the ships had me there with them.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who loves a sweet romance that blooms out of hardship, especially if sea life is on your list of passions.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who loves a sweet romance that blooms out of hardship, especially if sea life is on your list of passions.
October 22, 2012
This is a great book. Not your typical romance, the heroine is ballsy, and the book even features supernatural old Irish folklore. Very great base and plot. Loved the characters, they experience a myriad of emotions.
June 7, 2012
Great book! Would highly recommend to others - remember reading about selkies when I was a child. This book left me wanting more! What happened after it ended? :-)
June 20, 2012
Call of The Sea
I requested and received an ARC copy of “Call of the Sea” through Goodreads.
This romance is a rollicking good time for the reader, and a quick, easy-to-read novel. You have your spunky heroine and chiseled hero. You have the initial antagonism between the two, which, of course, transforms during the course of the novel.
Those are givens. The meat and originality comes in the details. Spunky Ellie (her full name is Elysandra) is a child at the beginning, which I like. I like seeing how and why a person develops as she/he grows up. It deepens the characters for me. This girl’s most ardent desire in life is to be a ship’s captain, like her father. Of course, in the 1600s, what chance does a girl have of doing that? None. Nevertheless, she is determined, as any child would be before society places its restrictions upon her. I sympathized with her desire and rooted for her, even though I felt it was an unrealistic ambition. Ellie becomes close to a selkie. She doesn’t know the seal is a man-seal, and Daniel, the selkie, keeps it that way. After being disowned cruelly by his human father and watching his selkie mother decline and die (murdered, actually, by Daniel’s father), he has a very hard time trusting anyone, and believes if anyone knows the truth, not only will he be instantly hated, his life will be in danger, for if a person gets their hands on his sealskin and keeps it from him, he’ll die. So, naturally, Daniel is careful. Ellie just believes she has come across a very friendly seal, and treats Daniel rather like a beloved dog. In his turn, Daniel loves this precocious child, and feels very protective of her. This dynamic works wonderfully well at making their later love affair believable, almost inevitable.
One of my favorite parts of the book is the description of selkies given by Nelson, one of the well-written secondary characters: “The Roane are what my people call those like you, cursed to live trapped between land and sea. While human, they ache for the salty freedom of the ocean, and while in the underworld, they pine for a life among those on solid ground, never quite belonging in either realm.” I thought this quite profound.
The author takes us through the changing process from seal to human and back, which I thought very well done.
We jump forward in time and Ellie, now 15, is more determined than ever to live her life upon the sea. Spunky, single-minded, and crafty! She manages to get herself a position as cabin boy on a ship. She runs away from home, disguises her sex by smashing her breasts and cutting her hair, and abandons her family, even though she is loved and cherished by both parents. (This bothered me a little, especially after so many years passed and she never even wrote to them.)
The author does an admirable job of describing ships, shipyards, all things “ship-like”, and living on the sea. I was drawn so well into the descriptions that I almost felt salty waves hitting me in the face! I loved this added depth. It was fascinating and realistic.
The story takes off with the danger and threat of pirates, of being forced into the life of a “pirate” when her assumption was that she was going to be a “privateer,” a much different job description.
Ellie manages to hide the fact that she’s a female for five whole years. I had a little trouble with this. Maybe I’m just not romantic enough. While I can accept a fifteen-year-old girl hiding those betraying signs of womanhood, it’s much harder to believe a twenty-year-old woman doing so, especially in such cramped, close quarters. What a bunch of clueless men! Especially when she and Daniel are reunited and he instantly notices (and admires) her womanly curves, although she’s still in character. Apparently her butt really fills out those sailor pants. Surely at least one other man would have noticed those curves and wondered on it. I felt like the author could have made this more plausible by describing how much more difficult things became in this area as the years passed, and how every year Ellie had to wear baggier and baggier clothing, or something. I also felt like, gosh, wouldn’t it get so very old to bind your breasts every single day and night for five years?
My analytical mind wondered why there is this leftover sealskin whenever Daniel becomes a man, but not a leftover manskin when he becomes a seal! Ah, the existentialism of it all. Another thing I would have liked, although I admit it wouldn’t have really added anything to this story, would have been to understand why Daniel’s father killed his mother. Why? I’m assuming that at one point, Daniel’s father loved Daniel’s mother enough to sleep with her. There could be an entire book and another fascinating tale in that question.
But in a story like “Call of the Sea,” with its paranormal aspects, one must (and can) suspend disbelief and enjoy, and that’s what I did. As my spouse would say, (similar observations have come my way on many an occasion): “You have no trouble believing a seal can turn into a man, but you can’t buy the idea that a woman can hide her femaleness from a bunch of horny men simply by binding her breasts?”
I also would have loved a little more about Daniel. When it came to the lovemaking, he seemed quite sophisticated, and I couldn’t help wondering where that came from. There is a gap in knowledge about the five years Ellie and Daniel have been separated, and I think it would have been a great added layer to share some of his experiences with us. This seems like a good place to mention, as have other reviewers, that there is a sex scene that makes this book probably inappropriate for younger readers.
My second favorite part of the book was how Daniel and Ellie get together. I don’t want to ruin the surprise of this for anyone, so no spoilers. I will only say that it made me laugh out loud, and I felt like saying, “Good for you!” It’s inventive, not what I expected at all, not typical of other romance novels, and it really worked. Spunky Ellie comes through again in her usual independent, anachronistic way!
Both Ellie and Daniel are loveable characters. The supporting cast are also well written, fully fleshed out, likeable or not, as their personalities demand.
A very enjoyable summer (or winter or fall or spring) read!
I requested and received an ARC copy of “Call of the Sea” through Goodreads.
This romance is a rollicking good time for the reader, and a quick, easy-to-read novel. You have your spunky heroine and chiseled hero. You have the initial antagonism between the two, which, of course, transforms during the course of the novel.
Those are givens. The meat and originality comes in the details. Spunky Ellie (her full name is Elysandra) is a child at the beginning, which I like. I like seeing how and why a person develops as she/he grows up. It deepens the characters for me. This girl’s most ardent desire in life is to be a ship’s captain, like her father. Of course, in the 1600s, what chance does a girl have of doing that? None. Nevertheless, she is determined, as any child would be before society places its restrictions upon her. I sympathized with her desire and rooted for her, even though I felt it was an unrealistic ambition. Ellie becomes close to a selkie. She doesn’t know the seal is a man-seal, and Daniel, the selkie, keeps it that way. After being disowned cruelly by his human father and watching his selkie mother decline and die (murdered, actually, by Daniel’s father), he has a very hard time trusting anyone, and believes if anyone knows the truth, not only will he be instantly hated, his life will be in danger, for if a person gets their hands on his sealskin and keeps it from him, he’ll die. So, naturally, Daniel is careful. Ellie just believes she has come across a very friendly seal, and treats Daniel rather like a beloved dog. In his turn, Daniel loves this precocious child, and feels very protective of her. This dynamic works wonderfully well at making their later love affair believable, almost inevitable.
One of my favorite parts of the book is the description of selkies given by Nelson, one of the well-written secondary characters: “The Roane are what my people call those like you, cursed to live trapped between land and sea. While human, they ache for the salty freedom of the ocean, and while in the underworld, they pine for a life among those on solid ground, never quite belonging in either realm.” I thought this quite profound.
The author takes us through the changing process from seal to human and back, which I thought very well done.
We jump forward in time and Ellie, now 15, is more determined than ever to live her life upon the sea. Spunky, single-minded, and crafty! She manages to get herself a position as cabin boy on a ship. She runs away from home, disguises her sex by smashing her breasts and cutting her hair, and abandons her family, even though she is loved and cherished by both parents. (This bothered me a little, especially after so many years passed and she never even wrote to them.)
The author does an admirable job of describing ships, shipyards, all things “ship-like”, and living on the sea. I was drawn so well into the descriptions that I almost felt salty waves hitting me in the face! I loved this added depth. It was fascinating and realistic.
The story takes off with the danger and threat of pirates, of being forced into the life of a “pirate” when her assumption was that she was going to be a “privateer,” a much different job description.
Ellie manages to hide the fact that she’s a female for five whole years. I had a little trouble with this. Maybe I’m just not romantic enough. While I can accept a fifteen-year-old girl hiding those betraying signs of womanhood, it’s much harder to believe a twenty-year-old woman doing so, especially in such cramped, close quarters. What a bunch of clueless men! Especially when she and Daniel are reunited and he instantly notices (and admires) her womanly curves, although she’s still in character. Apparently her butt really fills out those sailor pants. Surely at least one other man would have noticed those curves and wondered on it. I felt like the author could have made this more plausible by describing how much more difficult things became in this area as the years passed, and how every year Ellie had to wear baggier and baggier clothing, or something. I also felt like, gosh, wouldn’t it get so very old to bind your breasts every single day and night for five years?
My analytical mind wondered why there is this leftover sealskin whenever Daniel becomes a man, but not a leftover manskin when he becomes a seal! Ah, the existentialism of it all. Another thing I would have liked, although I admit it wouldn’t have really added anything to this story, would have been to understand why Daniel’s father killed his mother. Why? I’m assuming that at one point, Daniel’s father loved Daniel’s mother enough to sleep with her. There could be an entire book and another fascinating tale in that question.
But in a story like “Call of the Sea,” with its paranormal aspects, one must (and can) suspend disbelief and enjoy, and that’s what I did. As my spouse would say, (similar observations have come my way on many an occasion): “You have no trouble believing a seal can turn into a man, but you can’t buy the idea that a woman can hide her femaleness from a bunch of horny men simply by binding her breasts?”
I also would have loved a little more about Daniel. When it came to the lovemaking, he seemed quite sophisticated, and I couldn’t help wondering where that came from. There is a gap in knowledge about the five years Ellie and Daniel have been separated, and I think it would have been a great added layer to share some of his experiences with us. This seems like a good place to mention, as have other reviewers, that there is a sex scene that makes this book probably inappropriate for younger readers.
My second favorite part of the book was how Daniel and Ellie get together. I don’t want to ruin the surprise of this for anyone, so no spoilers. I will only say that it made me laugh out loud, and I felt like saying, “Good for you!” It’s inventive, not what I expected at all, not typical of other romance novels, and it really worked. Spunky Ellie comes through again in her usual independent, anachronistic way!
Both Ellie and Daniel are loveable characters. The supporting cast are also well written, fully fleshed out, likeable or not, as their personalities demand.
A very enjoyable summer (or winter or fall or spring) read!
July 18, 2012
Original Post CALL OF THE SEA is Young at Heart and Unsophisticated at Fangs, Wands and Fairy Dust7/18/2012
Call of the Sea
by Rebecca Hart
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Inkspell Publishing
June 21, 2012
Paperback: 336 pages
Kindle: 365 KB/224 pages
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
Elysandra Winters has always yearned for a life of adventure on the rolling seas and is willing to do whatever it takes to fulfill her dream. When her Privateer father continually refuses to allow his only daughter to sail, Ellie defies him, disguises herself as a boy, and goes in search of a captain who will give her a chance to prove her worth.
Thanks to the cursed selkie blood coursing through his veins, Daniel O'Rourke needs the sea to survive. After giving up on his humanity and spending three years in seal form, he decides to give his human side another chance. Daniel goes in search of a job and a sense of normalcy, earning himself a position aboard Captain Winter’s ship, The Siren's Call. However, his new captain’s first assignment has nothing at all to do with sailing, and everything to do with his headstrong young daughter.
Years later, when the leader of a band of bloodthirsty pirates murders Captain Winters, Daniel and Elysandra’s lives come crashing back together with the force of a hurricane. Both experts in deception, they must find a way to trust each other if they are to have any hope of hunting down the captain’s killer. www.rebeccahartwriting.com
When I found out about CALL OF THE SEA I was told it was crossover YA to Adult and that there was some sex in it. So, there is. One scene. The rest reads like middle grade to YA. It did read fast and I had a hard time putting it down, probably because I liked Daniel. I found Daniel's character the most compelling of the story. I disliked Ellie, she was selfish and regularly disobedient at the expense of other people.
The paranormal aspect of the story is that the male romantic hero, Daniel, is a selkie. I've never really gotten selkies—a form of were-seal. They must always keep their seal skin or lose their ability to shift and will die.
Do they merely need the skin in order to accomplish the change or do they put the skin on and merge with it? Since we hear about Daniel's skin changing, becoming thicker as he assumes his seal form, I am guessing it is required to accomplish the magic but not worn as a skin. It's more like a matching piece of luggage for his seal-form.
The historical aspect to CALL OF THE SEA feels wrong. I am fairly familiar with the British and Colonial trade of that period having been a historic house museum docent and board member, and the conversation and attitudes seem far too contemporary to convince me. Having said that, it reads more easily than a historically correct representation would and will probably resonate more easily with younger adults who haven't been really involved in that time period. She does get the speed and general regularity of trade at the time. Ships were the fastest mode of travel, Nothing could move quantities of people, cargo or information (over water or where there were hostile forces or terrain) faster.
Perhaps, and I don't believe I have ever said this before, it's the lack of detail. If it weren't for the heroine's struggle to work in a man's profession the story could occur in any time period. Although in recent reading I have noted historic accounts that women commonly served on American British Naval Vessels and Privateers at the time of the American Revolution about a hundred years after this book is set, so maybe it wasn't as taboo as we have often been led to believe.*
General issues:
Some people can see through Ellie's disguise immediately and yet others work next to her for five years without realizing she's female.
The serendipitous confluence of situations necessary to actuate the plot is very convenient.
The lack of emotion in response by her mother to the death of Ellie's father is simply bizarre, and felt completely artificial.
All in all, I think CALL OF THE SEA is unsophisticated and shallow. If this were Middle Grade (without the sex scene) it might work, but there are issues arising from the sex that would also need to be altered.
The main theme in CALL OF THE SEA is that children mistake their parent's intent and understanding, one of life's obvious truths, at least once you're an adult. I would place the age range at 17 to 20 without much historical-fiction reading experience. The lower limit is of course only if a parent would allow the one sex scene.
A solid Meh.
*Seafaring Women, Dr. Linda Grant de Pauw, Peacock Press
http://www.navyandmarine.org/ondeck/1...
June 25, 2012
I must admit, I was very surprised by Call of the Sea - in a good way. I was a bit turned off by the girl on the cover, but the synopsis is what intrigued me the most. A fiery female character is sure to provide loads of entertainment, and then you throw in pirates, selkies, romance, and murder? I'm in! I am glad to say that Rebecca Hart writes an intriguing story; one that draws you in, almost against your will, and keeps you hanging on to the very last word.
Elysandra "Ellie" Winters was a fabulous, but certainly flawed, character. I liked her from the very first few pages, when she decks a boy right in his nose for telling her that she could never be a privateer. I hope my own little girl is an independent firecracker like Ellie - minus the violence, of course. I could feel her frustration with being limited to a dreary life on land, while her father and other boys and men are allowed to gallavant across the high seas. While I admired Ellie's strong-headedness, much of the decisions she made throughout the story were purely selfish. She didn't really think about how her actions would affect others, nor did she stop to consider the situation when someone made her mad or disappointed her. However, this is pretty typical for a young girl, and I was glad to see that Ellie progressed in maturity by the end of the story.
Ellie's relationship with Daniel began sweetly and naturally, and progressed with a fiery passion that eventually culmunated in a very hot bedroom scene. Daniel was the type of male love interest I love to see in Young Adult and New Adult novels. He was intelligent, a hard-worker, loyal, loving, honest, and most of all, completely willing to be Ellie's partner and not her boss. It would take a very understanding yet stubborn man to be Ellie's match, and Daniel certainly fit the bill. I had a grin on my face a couple times during their arguing and bantering.
I enjoyed the brief moments where the book explored the selkie lore. One of my favorite movies growing up was The Secret of Roan Inish, which focuses on the fabled Irish selkies and their curse. So, it was nice to see the selkies get a bit of primetime in the book, but I will say that if you didn't already know what they are, you may be a little lost. I had a rather hilarious chat with my friend, Jenni at AlluringReads, as she read Call of the Sea and tried to figure out exactly what a selkie is.
As for the action and the setting, Call of the Sea does not disappoint. I thought that Rebecca Hart's research really shone in the descriptions of Newquay, England and of the ships themselves. I could practically smell the briny air and hear the bustle of the wharf as privateers and captains prepared to go to sea. There were a few action scenes, where the pirates overtake a boat, and where the pirates themselves are overtaken. These were rather brief, but will satisfy anyone who loves a little adventure in their stories.
I was a little bothered by the ending of Call of the Sea. After such a dramatic build-up throughout the story, I felt that the ending was very rushed and things worked out almost a little too conveniently. However, not everyone has a happy ending, so I think many will be perfectly pleased with how things turn out for Ellie and Daniel. There were some timing/continuity issues as well, but I was reading an ARC, so hopefully those will have been caught and taken care of in the final version.
Overall, Call of the Sea was an entertaining, engrossing read, perfect for a relaxing weekend on the beach or at the park. The story moves along rather quickly and smoothly, and you will find yourself caught up in the pages, having lost track of time. I look forward to seeing what other unique stories Rebecca Hart has in store for her readers!
*A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via InkSlinger PR/InkSpell Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Elysandra "Ellie" Winters was a fabulous, but certainly flawed, character. I liked her from the very first few pages, when she decks a boy right in his nose for telling her that she could never be a privateer. I hope my own little girl is an independent firecracker like Ellie - minus the violence, of course. I could feel her frustration with being limited to a dreary life on land, while her father and other boys and men are allowed to gallavant across the high seas. While I admired Ellie's strong-headedness, much of the decisions she made throughout the story were purely selfish. She didn't really think about how her actions would affect others, nor did she stop to consider the situation when someone made her mad or disappointed her. However, this is pretty typical for a young girl, and I was glad to see that Ellie progressed in maturity by the end of the story.
Ellie's relationship with Daniel began sweetly and naturally, and progressed with a fiery passion that eventually culmunated in a very hot bedroom scene. Daniel was the type of male love interest I love to see in Young Adult and New Adult novels. He was intelligent, a hard-worker, loyal, loving, honest, and most of all, completely willing to be Ellie's partner and not her boss. It would take a very understanding yet stubborn man to be Ellie's match, and Daniel certainly fit the bill. I had a grin on my face a couple times during their arguing and bantering.
I enjoyed the brief moments where the book explored the selkie lore. One of my favorite movies growing up was The Secret of Roan Inish, which focuses on the fabled Irish selkies and their curse. So, it was nice to see the selkies get a bit of primetime in the book, but I will say that if you didn't already know what they are, you may be a little lost. I had a rather hilarious chat with my friend, Jenni at AlluringReads, as she read Call of the Sea and tried to figure out exactly what a selkie is.
As for the action and the setting, Call of the Sea does not disappoint. I thought that Rebecca Hart's research really shone in the descriptions of Newquay, England and of the ships themselves. I could practically smell the briny air and hear the bustle of the wharf as privateers and captains prepared to go to sea. There were a few action scenes, where the pirates overtake a boat, and where the pirates themselves are overtaken. These were rather brief, but will satisfy anyone who loves a little adventure in their stories.
I was a little bothered by the ending of Call of the Sea. After such a dramatic build-up throughout the story, I felt that the ending was very rushed and things worked out almost a little too conveniently. However, not everyone has a happy ending, so I think many will be perfectly pleased with how things turn out for Ellie and Daniel. There were some timing/continuity issues as well, but I was reading an ARC, so hopefully those will have been caught and taken care of in the final version.
Overall, Call of the Sea was an entertaining, engrossing read, perfect for a relaxing weekend on the beach or at the park. The story moves along rather quickly and smoothly, and you will find yourself caught up in the pages, having lost track of time. I look forward to seeing what other unique stories Rebecca Hart has in store for her readers!
*A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via InkSlinger PR/InkSpell Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2012
Originally posted on my blog, DJ Librarian Dishes
All Elysandra Winters desires to do is to sail the seas aboard her father's ship, The Siren's Call. The sea is in her blood and even as a child, Ellie can hear it calling to her. However, her father has other plans for his fiery daughter when he hires young Daniel O'Rourke as the new cabin boy to serve on The Siren's Call. When Ellie doesn't take this news well, Captain Winters gives a new task to Daniel which in turn further entwines the paths of his daughter and his new cabin boy over the next ten years.
Ellie is one of the most headstrong and stubborn heroines I have had the opportunity to find in a debut title. She knows what she wants and she's willing to do what it takes in order to get what she wants, even if it means disobeying her father. I admire Ellie for that trait, yet it's also a bit worrisome that it will make her blunder into danger. This is actually why she has someone like Daniel to help look after her, especially since he is nearly as stubborn as her. I was smitten with Daniel right from his introduction until the very last page from his loyalty to Captain Winters to his growing fondness of Ellie. So what if he has to change into a seal one month out of the year? These two were definitely made for each other even with Ellie's initial reservations while she was so focused on her own goals rather than looking at the overall picture.
I haven't read much in the way of selkie folklore, and I'm happy to say that Rebecca Hart's is the first novel I've read featuring selkies as the supernatural element. Hart's descriptions of Daniel's various transformations either from seal to human or from human to seal were rather detailed, and I found myself almost cringing with the cracking of bones. It added a sense of realism to the selkie's transformation that goes beyond just magically changing into another form. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more novels that feature selkies.
While the first part of the story is a bit slow, the pace picks up as soon as Ellie makes a break for the sea, soon sending her father and Daniel in search of her. Readers who enjoy a high-seas adventure story with supernatural and romantic elements won't be disappointed with Call of the Sea.
Obligatory statement: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and received no monetary compensation for my review.
All Elysandra Winters desires to do is to sail the seas aboard her father's ship, The Siren's Call. The sea is in her blood and even as a child, Ellie can hear it calling to her. However, her father has other plans for his fiery daughter when he hires young Daniel O'Rourke as the new cabin boy to serve on The Siren's Call. When Ellie doesn't take this news well, Captain Winters gives a new task to Daniel which in turn further entwines the paths of his daughter and his new cabin boy over the next ten years.
Ellie is one of the most headstrong and stubborn heroines I have had the opportunity to find in a debut title. She knows what she wants and she's willing to do what it takes in order to get what she wants, even if it means disobeying her father. I admire Ellie for that trait, yet it's also a bit worrisome that it will make her blunder into danger. This is actually why she has someone like Daniel to help look after her, especially since he is nearly as stubborn as her. I was smitten with Daniel right from his introduction until the very last page from his loyalty to Captain Winters to his growing fondness of Ellie. So what if he has to change into a seal one month out of the year? These two were definitely made for each other even with Ellie's initial reservations while she was so focused on her own goals rather than looking at the overall picture.
I haven't read much in the way of selkie folklore, and I'm happy to say that Rebecca Hart's is the first novel I've read featuring selkies as the supernatural element. Hart's descriptions of Daniel's various transformations either from seal to human or from human to seal were rather detailed, and I found myself almost cringing with the cracking of bones. It added a sense of realism to the selkie's transformation that goes beyond just magically changing into another form. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more novels that feature selkies.
While the first part of the story is a bit slow, the pace picks up as soon as Ellie makes a break for the sea, soon sending her father and Daniel in search of her. Readers who enjoy a high-seas adventure story with supernatural and romantic elements won't be disappointed with Call of the Sea.
Obligatory statement: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and received no monetary compensation for my review.
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