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Secrets a Captain Keeps
She hates most men, he happens to be one.
Miss Eliza Bawden is determined to be a spinster, which should be easy since most men are selfish, dismissive imbeciles. But when she crosses paths, and wits, with the inconveniently handsome Captain Fredrick Marshall, she's left to wonder if all her assumptions about the male species are correct.
Twelve years in the Royal Navy should be a badge of honor for Fredrick Marshall, but with the atrocities he’s witnessed still haunting him, the navy is the last thing he wants associated with his name. The only good to come of his service is also the reason he's hiding from most of Society. Except, he cannot seem to hide from his brash new neighbor—not even in his dreams.
When attraction tugs at them like tides of the ocean, Eliza and Fredrick must make a choice, pull together or fall apart. Can two independent souls find a safe haven in each other as they battle not only their own preconceived notions, but the forces that seem determined to eliminate the captain's precious secret?
Miss Eliza Bawden is determined to be a spinster, which should be easy since most men are selfish, dismissive imbeciles. But when she crosses paths, and wits, with the inconveniently handsome Captain Fredrick Marshall, she's left to wonder if all her assumptions about the male species are correct.
Twelve years in the Royal Navy should be a badge of honor for Fredrick Marshall, but with the atrocities he’s witnessed still haunting him, the navy is the last thing he wants associated with his name. The only good to come of his service is also the reason he's hiding from most of Society. Except, he cannot seem to hide from his brash new neighbor—not even in his dreams.
When attraction tugs at them like tides of the ocean, Eliza and Fredrick must make a choice, pull together or fall apart. Can two independent souls find a safe haven in each other as they battle not only their own preconceived notions, but the forces that seem determined to eliminate the captain's precious secret?
- GenresRomanceEnemies To Lovers
357 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 24, 2024
31 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
January 10, 2024
Eliza is a man hater. Frederick is a former Captain. When they meet, sparks fly but not in the romantic way. It seems every time they meet jabs and insults are spoken. But when they start to open up to each other about their past things may change.
I love Enemies to Lovers stories and this one is wonderful! I love the witty banter. This is the 4th book in the series. I was so excited when I learned it would be about Eliza. I loved her character throughout the series and wanted to see her fall in love. She is very brave, funny, and kind. And she learns that men aren’t all bad. Captain Frederick, is the perfect man for her and he is such a great guy. He is so caring to his ward. He also is willing to do anything to protect the people he loves. He is tormented by dreams and I felt so bad for him. Characters from previous books make appearances as well and I loved seeing them again. Eliza and Frederick’s love story is beautiful and I loved watching them fall in love. Overall, I thought this was a fantastic story! I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley . All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I love Enemies to Lovers stories and this one is wonderful! I love the witty banter. This is the 4th book in the series. I was so excited when I learned it would be about Eliza. I loved her character throughout the series and wanted to see her fall in love. She is very brave, funny, and kind. And she learns that men aren’t all bad. Captain Frederick, is the perfect man for her and he is such a great guy. He is so caring to his ward. He also is willing to do anything to protect the people he loves. He is tormented by dreams and I felt so bad for him. Characters from previous books make appearances as well and I loved seeing them again. Eliza and Frederick’s love story is beautiful and I loved watching them fall in love. Overall, I thought this was a fantastic story! I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley . All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
February 21, 2024
"She was the enemy; a ship with her long guns aimed at his deck. One did not steer close to one's enemy just because they had a pretty quarterdeck and nice mast."
"Blast the man! He was not supposed to have any good qualities. It was incredibly inconsiderate of him."
"You carry my heart with you tomorrow."
"I know," she said. "I will keep her safe."
He pulled back and cupped her face in his large hands. "I know you will, but Iza is only an extension of my heart. You, brave, bold, and utterly beautiful Eliza, have my heart and all the love it can hold. If something were to happen to either of you, I'm not sure I could bear it."
Read if you like:
* Enemies to Lovers
* Witty Banter
* Dual POV
* Found Family
* Forced Proximity
* Part of a series (can be read as a stand alone, but it's more enjoyable to read in order)
Eliza and Frederick start off on the wrong foot and it escalates from there. They are both stubborn, strong-willed and determined in their course. They have each experienced their share of trauma which has caused them to erect walls around their hearts. I love the banter between these two. They are quick witted and (Eliza especially) sharp tongued. Watching them struggle to confront their pasts and their prejudices and learn to trust each other melted my heart. The supporting cast of characters (mostly MCs from past books in this series) provided so much fun. I love the friendships that have turned familial and the way that they show up and support each other.
Favorites:
* Eliza's colorful exclamations! (shabbaroon, jolterhead, gollumpus, dalcop, and fopdoodle are some of my favorites!)
* "Best ply your wares elsewhere."
* Merry Men's nicknames (Hood, Scarlet, Tuck and Little)
* Standing up to Mr. Cramer
* "She losted me."
* Holding the prayer book upside down
* "I trust you, Miss Bawden."
* Hades the man hating cat
* Literally tripping down the stairs
* Frederick's defense of Eliza to her father
* Trying to carry Frederick up the stairs
* Sybil's secret signals
* Frederick's butler
* "You left because you are frightened of me and the way I make you feel."
This series has been so much fun. I love that it was based on the strong bonds of friendship between a group of men. I also appreciate how well researched this series is, I feel like I learned something new with each book.
"Blast the man! He was not supposed to have any good qualities. It was incredibly inconsiderate of him."
"You carry my heart with you tomorrow."
"I know," she said. "I will keep her safe."
He pulled back and cupped her face in his large hands. "I know you will, but Iza is only an extension of my heart. You, brave, bold, and utterly beautiful Eliza, have my heart and all the love it can hold. If something were to happen to either of you, I'm not sure I could bear it."
Read if you like:
* Enemies to Lovers
* Witty Banter
* Dual POV
* Found Family
* Forced Proximity
* Part of a series (can be read as a stand alone, but it's more enjoyable to read in order)
Eliza and Frederick start off on the wrong foot and it escalates from there. They are both stubborn, strong-willed and determined in their course. They have each experienced their share of trauma which has caused them to erect walls around their hearts. I love the banter between these two. They are quick witted and (Eliza especially) sharp tongued. Watching them struggle to confront their pasts and their prejudices and learn to trust each other melted my heart. The supporting cast of characters (mostly MCs from past books in this series) provided so much fun. I love the friendships that have turned familial and the way that they show up and support each other.
Favorites:
* Eliza's colorful exclamations! (shabbaroon, jolterhead, gollumpus, dalcop, and fopdoodle are some of my favorites!)
* "Best ply your wares elsewhere."
* Merry Men's nicknames (Hood, Scarlet, Tuck and Little)
* Standing up to Mr. Cramer
* "She losted me."
* Holding the prayer book upside down
* "I trust you, Miss Bawden."
* Hades the man hating cat
* Literally tripping down the stairs
* Frederick's defense of Eliza to her father
* Trying to carry Frederick up the stairs
* Sybil's secret signals
* Frederick's butler
* "You left because you are frightened of me and the way I make you feel."
This series has been so much fun. I love that it was based on the strong bonds of friendship between a group of men. I also appreciate how well researched this series is, I feel like I learned something new with each book.
January 31, 2024
I think I might just have a new favorite book. I don’t think it is possible to put into words how much I loved this book. Secrets a Captain Keeps was, in my eyes, the definition of perfection. I am actually speechless.
This was my first book by this author. I have not had the opportunity to receive any of her books before, so I was excited to finally be able to with this one. I had no idea what this book or this author’s writing style was going to be like. All of the praising reviews that this author receives are completely accurate. When I finished reading the book, I sat for a couple of minutes just staring at the wall because I was heartbroken that the book was over.
I loved everything about this story. The characters and storyline were all beautifully written, and I hope I get the opportunity to read the previous books in this series soon.
Secrets a Captain Keeps was more emotional than I thought it would be. My heart broke for Eliza and Fredrick. They both had troubles from their past that haunted them their entire lives. The best part of this story was the way they helped each other heal through their pain. Their relationship was very touching.
One of my other favorite parts of this book was the enemies-to-lovers banter between Fredrick and Eliza. This author wrote the trope so well that I couldn’t put the book down for a moment. Their scenes together had me laughing and smiling every second. Their romance is one of the best I have read.
If you love an enemies-to-lovers romance that also includes found family, touching moments, a little suspense, and a book that is so phenomenally written that you feel like you are transported into the story, PLEASE read this one. I was not exaggerating when I said this might just be my new favorite book. Secrets a Captain Keeps will forever have a special place in my heart.
This was my first book by this author. I have not had the opportunity to receive any of her books before, so I was excited to finally be able to with this one. I had no idea what this book or this author’s writing style was going to be like. All of the praising reviews that this author receives are completely accurate. When I finished reading the book, I sat for a couple of minutes just staring at the wall because I was heartbroken that the book was over.
I loved everything about this story. The characters and storyline were all beautifully written, and I hope I get the opportunity to read the previous books in this series soon.
Secrets a Captain Keeps was more emotional than I thought it would be. My heart broke for Eliza and Fredrick. They both had troubles from their past that haunted them their entire lives. The best part of this story was the way they helped each other heal through their pain. Their relationship was very touching.
One of my other favorite parts of this book was the enemies-to-lovers banter between Fredrick and Eliza. This author wrote the trope so well that I couldn’t put the book down for a moment. Their scenes together had me laughing and smiling every second. Their romance is one of the best I have read.
If you love an enemies-to-lovers romance that also includes found family, touching moments, a little suspense, and a book that is so phenomenally written that you feel like you are transported into the story, PLEASE read this one. I was not exaggerating when I said this might just be my new favorite book. Secrets a Captain Keeps will forever have a special place in my heart.
January 13, 2024
The fourth (& final) instalment of ‘The Merry Men of Eton’ series did not disappoint! It was such a great conclusion to the intervowen stories of four men who were a Robin Hood type gang whilst at Eton together and the subsequent leading ladies who made an impact on their adult lives. At the heart of each there is a story of love, both romantic and friendship, which are all beautifully written by Teah.
I loved that although this was Eliza and Fredericks story, the other characters from the previous stories had such a strong role in the book. All their stories were so intertwined and it emphasised the importance of these men (& women) to each other and how important the strength of friendship can be. It was so nice to hear how each previous characters individual stories were developing too, and really concreted the series together. As such I would definitely recommend reading the first 3 books if possible to fully appreciate this one.
I adored the story of Eliza and Frederick. I knew it would take a special sort of man to change Eliza’s long standing opinion of the male species and Frederick, with his tenderness, insecurities and history, was the perfect choice to break through her armour. Iza was such a special addition to the story and I loved reading about her and Fredericks bond. As all the books in the series, there was plenty of tension and action at the culmination of the story and the writing style is so fluid that I just couldn’t put it down. If you’re a fan of clean historical romance with interesting characters and exciting stories then you should read this entire series now!
I loved that although this was Eliza and Fredericks story, the other characters from the previous stories had such a strong role in the book. All their stories were so intertwined and it emphasised the importance of these men (& women) to each other and how important the strength of friendship can be. It was so nice to hear how each previous characters individual stories were developing too, and really concreted the series together. As such I would definitely recommend reading the first 3 books if possible to fully appreciate this one.
I adored the story of Eliza and Frederick. I knew it would take a special sort of man to change Eliza’s long standing opinion of the male species and Frederick, with his tenderness, insecurities and history, was the perfect choice to break through her armour. Iza was such a special addition to the story and I loved reading about her and Fredericks bond. As all the books in the series, there was plenty of tension and action at the culmination of the story and the writing style is so fluid that I just couldn’t put it down. If you’re a fan of clean historical romance with interesting characters and exciting stories then you should read this entire series now!
February 6, 2024
Secrets a Captain Keeps by Teah Kemp Weight was another wonderful story from her Merry Men of Eton series. I liked how Frederick's and Eliza's character had depth and history and an intensity that made them more interesting. This plot helped me to realize how much I like a stand out, strong-willed woman in this time period where women were seldom appreciated in public nor given a voice. If you haven't checked out this series, you should. It will be well worth your time. Yeah is a great writer! Happy reading, friends!
Book Description: Miss Eliza Bawden is determined to be a spinster, which should be easy since most men are selfish, dismissive imbeciles. But when she crosses paths, and wits, with the inconveniently handsome Captain Fredrick Marshall, she's left to wonder if all her assumptions about the male species are correct.
Twelve years in the Royal Navy should be a badge of honor for Fredrick Marshall, but with the atrocities he’s witnessed still haunting him, the navy is the last thing he wants associated with his name. The only good to come of his service is also the reason he's hiding from most of Society. Except, he cannot seem to hide from his brash new neighbor—not even in his dreams.
When attraction tugs at them like tides of the ocean, Eliza and Fredrick must make a choice, pull together or fall apart. Can two independent souls find a safe haven in each other as they battle not only their own preconceived notions, but the forces that seem determined to eliminate the captain's precious secret?
Book Description: Miss Eliza Bawden is determined to be a spinster, which should be easy since most men are selfish, dismissive imbeciles. But when she crosses paths, and wits, with the inconveniently handsome Captain Fredrick Marshall, she's left to wonder if all her assumptions about the male species are correct.
Twelve years in the Royal Navy should be a badge of honor for Fredrick Marshall, but with the atrocities he’s witnessed still haunting him, the navy is the last thing he wants associated with his name. The only good to come of his service is also the reason he's hiding from most of Society. Except, he cannot seem to hide from his brash new neighbor—not even in his dreams.
When attraction tugs at them like tides of the ocean, Eliza and Fredrick must make a choice, pull together or fall apart. Can two independent souls find a safe haven in each other as they battle not only their own preconceived notions, but the forces that seem determined to eliminate the captain's precious secret?
January 16, 2024
Do you like strong, brave and a little bit sassy heroines? Because if you do, then this book if perfect for you!
Eliza is an independent and headstrong young woman who has finally been granted freedom from her distant and disapproving father when she inherited her aunts estate.
Eliza has a problem with men. All of them, except of course her brother. After all, every man she meets seems to only be after her money and her father has hardly cared for her at all and except to tell her how she has disappointed him. She is happy on her own and would love to help show what a woman is really capable of. The only thing marring this wonderful new position is that her neighbor is the aggravating Captain Frederick Marshall.
For Captain Frederick Marshall, he just wants peace. Peace from the nightmares of war that plague him at night, from the worries of keeping his ward a secret, and peace from the feud with his aggravating but charming neighbor; Eliza.
I love the back and forth between these two! The banter was on point and the beautiful way the their feelings towards each other change and shift to something deeper.
And oh my! The suspense! The action! The romance!! I could not put this down! It was so so good and we get to see cameos from the other books in the series. Although this one can be read as a stand alone without any problems.
I can’t wait to read more books by this author!
Thank you to the author for an arc copy. All thoughts are my own.
Eliza is an independent and headstrong young woman who has finally been granted freedom from her distant and disapproving father when she inherited her aunts estate.
Eliza has a problem with men. All of them, except of course her brother. After all, every man she meets seems to only be after her money and her father has hardly cared for her at all and except to tell her how she has disappointed him. She is happy on her own and would love to help show what a woman is really capable of. The only thing marring this wonderful new position is that her neighbor is the aggravating Captain Frederick Marshall.
For Captain Frederick Marshall, he just wants peace. Peace from the nightmares of war that plague him at night, from the worries of keeping his ward a secret, and peace from the feud with his aggravating but charming neighbor; Eliza.
I love the back and forth between these two! The banter was on point and the beautiful way the their feelings towards each other change and shift to something deeper.
And oh my! The suspense! The action! The romance!! I could not put this down! It was so so good and we get to see cameos from the other books in the series. Although this one can be read as a stand alone without any problems.
I can’t wait to read more books by this author!
Thank you to the author for an arc copy. All thoughts are my own.
January 28, 2024
"Secrets a Captain Keeps" is book 4 in the Merry Men of Eton series. It is very well-researched, beautifully-written, and was an absolute delight to read! The Regency-era setting was described clearly with details that make the locations, characters, clothing, and what is happening in the story easy for the reader to envision. I applaud the amazing research and attention to detail that this author always brings to her work! I now feel that I've learned so much about the Royal Navy during that time period. The characters are so original and lovable! It was wonderful to see our friends from the other books in the series as well! Iza was so sweet, I loved getting to know her. I loved seeing the care and love that both Frederick and Eliza have for her. The speed of the plot is perfect, the author's writing style is smooth and sparkling with wit and beauty, the story is original and captivating, and the romance is sweet and swoony with lots of emotional depth and heart. There were so many suspenseful moments too! This book is definitely a page-turner. I cannot recommend this book and series highly enough! All are must reads. 5 stars!
Thank you very much to the author for the wonderful opportunity of being a part of her Teaser Tour Team and for providing me with a digital copy to read and review honestly.
Thank you very much to the author for the wonderful opportunity of being a part of her Teaser Tour Team and for providing me with a digital copy to read and review honestly.
January 31, 2024
Secrets a Captain Keeps is a lovely, clean, enemies-to-lovers regency romance.
The enemies-to-lovers trope is done so well by Weight! I love that she deftly executes this popular trope in a way that feels very real -- it starts off with two very determined/stubborn people really getting off on the wrong foot with each other, combined with Eliza's overall dislike of men in general and Frederick's lingering trauma from serving in the navy. And then there's a focused proximity element (due to mutual friends coming to visit both parties) that allows just the right amount of opportunity to drive the other up the wall while also coming to appreciate their finer qualities.
Eliza and Frederick's characters were both well written. I appreciated that while both had experienced hardships, this was neither minimized nor overly dwelt upon. It can be a very hard balance to strike in romance novels, because you need characters to have experienced hardship to be well developed but it's also important not to minimize the struggles or bog down the plot.
I loved how we got quite a bit of action at the end. I don't want to include spoilers, but I loved that the ending included more danger and intrigue than is common for the genre. The additional elements rounded out the story quite nicely!
Thank you to Teah Weight for the eARC copy. All opinions are my own.
The enemies-to-lovers trope is done so well by Weight! I love that she deftly executes this popular trope in a way that feels very real -- it starts off with two very determined/stubborn people really getting off on the wrong foot with each other, combined with Eliza's overall dislike of men in general and Frederick's lingering trauma from serving in the navy. And then there's a focused proximity element (due to mutual friends coming to visit both parties) that allows just the right amount of opportunity to drive the other up the wall while also coming to appreciate their finer qualities.
Eliza and Frederick's characters were both well written. I appreciated that while both had experienced hardships, this was neither minimized nor overly dwelt upon. It can be a very hard balance to strike in romance novels, because you need characters to have experienced hardship to be well developed but it's also important not to minimize the struggles or bog down the plot.
I loved how we got quite a bit of action at the end. I don't want to include spoilers, but I loved that the ending included more danger and intrigue than is common for the genre. The additional elements rounded out the story quite nicely!
Thank you to Teah Weight for the eARC copy. All opinions are my own.
January 24, 2024
This book was such a joy to read. Headstrong, Elisa had no room in her life for men. She could live her life, manage her own household, and live happily ever after without a man. She pushed away any man that was showing interest, and gave them a good put down. Captain Frederick Marshall had left his life at Sea with his ward Isabella. He moved to a small community where he hoped no one would find him. These two characters were so entertaining and a pleasure to get to know they were both stubborn and didn’t need anyone else in their lives. The story was intriguing and held my attention throughout. There were so many different facets to the story it held me captive. I thought the author did a wonderful job of researching and creating a well written, historical novel. It is part of a series, but can be read as a standalone. I recommend the whole series. They are all charming and entertaining. There are characters throughout each story that tie in with one another. This is a clean (mild kissing) and no foul language book. There is an illegitimate child (a sub character) that is loved and adored by all. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 30, 2024
“Together, with all their flaws, they were healthy and whole.”
—
From the moment Eliza Bawden crossed the page during the house party in book 2, I was a fan.
Bluestocking to the ultimate level, Eliza isn’t just your average independent woman. She has lived a life of frustration and resentment from her father’s lack of love, respect, and neglect.
Fredrick has been a navy man since his time at Eton, full of secrets, not even all of his own friends know the real reason for his conscription and service. Nor do they fully comprehend the world he has lived in on the seas. Those demons that still haunt him.
As neighbors with mutual friends; Fredrick and Eliza annoy each other to no end. Their banter is painful at times because neither of them dare to pull their punches, nor will they hold back on their passion towards those friends they share.
Doomed at times, but it is truly their flaws that help them see how much more successful they are together than they ever can imagine themselves to be apart.
—
I can’t wait for more from @teahthewriter, this novel, the topic, the love stories…they are captivating and enthralling and they don’t shy away from harder conversations. I think the friendship of Eliza/Sybil/Nicholas is still just one of my favorite things to read
—
From the moment Eliza Bawden crossed the page during the house party in book 2, I was a fan.
Bluestocking to the ultimate level, Eliza isn’t just your average independent woman. She has lived a life of frustration and resentment from her father’s lack of love, respect, and neglect.
Fredrick has been a navy man since his time at Eton, full of secrets, not even all of his own friends know the real reason for his conscription and service. Nor do they fully comprehend the world he has lived in on the seas. Those demons that still haunt him.
As neighbors with mutual friends; Fredrick and Eliza annoy each other to no end. Their banter is painful at times because neither of them dare to pull their punches, nor will they hold back on their passion towards those friends they share.
Doomed at times, but it is truly their flaws that help them see how much more successful they are together than they ever can imagine themselves to be apart.
—
I can’t wait for more from @teahthewriter, this novel, the topic, the love stories…they are captivating and enthralling and they don’t shy away from harder conversations. I think the friendship of Eliza/Sybil/Nicholas is still just one of my favorite things to read
January 31, 2024
I have enjoyed this series so much! Each new book sucks you in and sweeps you away with the Merry Men of Eton and their unbreakable friendship. It’s always a pleasure coming back!
Frederick and Eliza’s relationship was really fun to follow. Both are stubborn and like to take control, constantly bicker and disagree. And for at least half of the book there seemed to be a dance back and forth between one or the other being upset and misunderstanding something the other said or did… but they got there in the end! And what a sweet ending it was! I loved when Frederick and Eliza admitted how they felt to themselves and each other and really fought hard to not lose what they had. I think one of my favorite scenes was where Eliza went after Frederick once he had retreated into himself again and told him exactly what was on her mind and demanded he explain himself. She really was a firecracker of a character! I thoroughly enjoyed their interactions together.
And as usual we had a little mystery/intrigue and danger in the story which had a great conclusion. And the epilogue really was the cherry on top!
I receivers an advanced copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Frederick and Eliza’s relationship was really fun to follow. Both are stubborn and like to take control, constantly bicker and disagree. And for at least half of the book there seemed to be a dance back and forth between one or the other being upset and misunderstanding something the other said or did… but they got there in the end! And what a sweet ending it was! I loved when Frederick and Eliza admitted how they felt to themselves and each other and really fought hard to not lose what they had. I think one of my favorite scenes was where Eliza went after Frederick once he had retreated into himself again and told him exactly what was on her mind and demanded he explain himself. She really was a firecracker of a character! I thoroughly enjoyed their interactions together.
And as usual we had a little mystery/intrigue and danger in the story which had a great conclusion. And the epilogue really was the cherry on top!
I receivers an advanced copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 12, 2025
This was another delightful Regency book in this series. The characters were well portrayed and developed. The story was interesting, and the pace was good. After reading the four books in this series, I'm going to look into other books by the same author. I like her style, stories and characters.
Amazon synopsis:
Miss Eliza Bawden is determined to be a spinster, which should be easy since most men are selfish, dismissive imbeciles. But when she crosses paths, and wits, with the inconveniently handsome Captain Fredrick Marshall, she's left to wonder if all her assumptions about the male species are correct.
Twelve years in the Royal Navy should be a badge of honor for Fredrick Marshall, but with the atrocities he’s witnessed still haunting him, the navy is the last thing he wants associated with his name. The only good to come of his service is also the reason he's hiding from most of Society. Except, he cannot seem to hide from his brash new neighbor—not even in his dreams.
When attraction tugs at them like tides of the ocean, Eliza and Fredrick must make a choice, pull together or fall apart. Can two independent souls find a safe haven in each other as they battle not only their own preconceived notions, but the forces that seem determined to eliminate the captain's precious secret?
Amazon synopsis:
Miss Eliza Bawden is determined to be a spinster, which should be easy since most men are selfish, dismissive imbeciles. But when she crosses paths, and wits, with the inconveniently handsome Captain Fredrick Marshall, she's left to wonder if all her assumptions about the male species are correct.
Twelve years in the Royal Navy should be a badge of honor for Fredrick Marshall, but with the atrocities he’s witnessed still haunting him, the navy is the last thing he wants associated with his name. The only good to come of his service is also the reason he's hiding from most of Society. Except, he cannot seem to hide from his brash new neighbor—not even in his dreams.
When attraction tugs at them like tides of the ocean, Eliza and Fredrick must make a choice, pull together or fall apart. Can two independent souls find a safe haven in each other as they battle not only their own preconceived notions, but the forces that seem determined to eliminate the captain's precious secret?
January 25, 2024
Are you a serial reader? Like you read series in order? I always have great intentions, but the reality is that I’m clueless or read it out of order for a plethora of reasons.
I was able to read the previous two books, but have yet to read the first book. I will. I will. I think they all stand alone, however, this one will be a bit more complete knowing all the “Merry Men.” Their nicknames are just too cute and they’re a great group to get to know. So read in any order.
Eliza is a porcupine. She has issues with men and honestly gave me whiplash a time or two.
Captain Marshall is not a captain any longer, but the title led him to see the worst in humanity.
This is a voyage. It’s light and laughter until your heart starts to bleed. I adored the Captain and his gentleness with those he loved. And watching his relationship with Eliza was an entire sea voyage of emotions that started from the very first page. It’s a book about resilience and learning to share life’s burdens with others. A book about the strength that comes in good friends and choosing hope.
Life was not always easy for the Merry Men. See if Frederick can find peace and love while protecting his little wren.
I was able to read the previous two books, but have yet to read the first book. I will. I will. I think they all stand alone, however, this one will be a bit more complete knowing all the “Merry Men.” Their nicknames are just too cute and they’re a great group to get to know. So read in any order.
Eliza is a porcupine. She has issues with men and honestly gave me whiplash a time or two.
Captain Marshall is not a captain any longer, but the title led him to see the worst in humanity.
This is a voyage. It’s light and laughter until your heart starts to bleed. I adored the Captain and his gentleness with those he loved. And watching his relationship with Eliza was an entire sea voyage of emotions that started from the very first page. It’s a book about resilience and learning to share life’s burdens with others. A book about the strength that comes in good friends and choosing hope.
Life was not always easy for the Merry Men. See if Frederick can find peace and love while protecting his little wren.
January 24, 2024
What a wonderful novel! One you want to read in one setting
We meet the Merry Men again and dive deeper into Fredrick’s life. Broken Navy captain with ghosts of past atrocities who choses seclusion meets a feisty, independent, and stubborn Eliza. We’ve briefly met them before but here they shine: they show their gentler, compassionate side; they surprise us with secrets, they battle wits and wills, and they clear up misunderstandings and assumptions. Add to this angst of enemies-to-lovers a mystery and fight for the downtrodden and we get a page-turner. It’s a clean historical romance but the novel doesn’t shy from extremely difficult issues like physical and mental abuse, PTSD, assault, etc. Please consider it if it’s a trigger warning. However, the author alludes (and describes some of it) in a very gentle, compassionate way. It only adds to the depth of the plot.
It’s truly a great end to the series. However, now i just need more - maybe short novellas? - about the characters who were left on the sidelines with a glimpse of an incredible story of their own.
We meet the Merry Men again and dive deeper into Fredrick’s life. Broken Navy captain with ghosts of past atrocities who choses seclusion meets a feisty, independent, and stubborn Eliza. We’ve briefly met them before but here they shine: they show their gentler, compassionate side; they surprise us with secrets, they battle wits and wills, and they clear up misunderstandings and assumptions. Add to this angst of enemies-to-lovers a mystery and fight for the downtrodden and we get a page-turner. It’s a clean historical romance but the novel doesn’t shy from extremely difficult issues like physical and mental abuse, PTSD, assault, etc. Please consider it if it’s a trigger warning. However, the author alludes (and describes some of it) in a very gentle, compassionate way. It only adds to the depth of the plot.
It’s truly a great end to the series. However, now i just need more - maybe short novellas? - about the characters who were left on the sidelines with a glimpse of an incredible story of their own.
October 29, 2024
Before I even started reading I was so excited!! Eliza is my favorite character in this series , this is her story and I’m here for it!!!
Eliza is such a witty and fun character. Throughout this series I have loved getting to know her. She is now in possession of a house and freedom. She very much wants the ability to make her own decisions and not having to bow to the whim of men. But as the series has progressed, she has seen that not every man is the same and some even behave honorably.
I liked getting to know Frederick and learning about the hardships and choices he has made. Definitely a grump, but one with a heart and reasons for his attitude. Of course, Eliza and Frederick start off on the wrong foot and continue on not communicating and making all the wrong assumptions. I laughed out loud at some points and teared up at others.
A great end to the series and I will definitely reread all of them at some point!!
Eliza is such a witty and fun character. Throughout this series I have loved getting to know her. She is now in possession of a house and freedom. She very much wants the ability to make her own decisions and not having to bow to the whim of men. But as the series has progressed, she has seen that not every man is the same and some even behave honorably.
I liked getting to know Frederick and learning about the hardships and choices he has made. Definitely a grump, but one with a heart and reasons for his attitude. Of course, Eliza and Frederick start off on the wrong foot and continue on not communicating and making all the wrong assumptions. I laughed out loud at some points and teared up at others.
A great end to the series and I will definitely reread all of them at some point!!
January 20, 2024
All the love for this addition to the Men of Eton series by Teah Kemp Weight! This is the 4th book and could be read on its own, but it is so much more enjoyable if you read it in order. The characters from the previous books play a large part in the story.
Eliza and Fredrick both have such strong wills and personalities that the banter that brings to the book is great! They both have emotional baggage to sort through. This is my favorite of the series! And I have loved the others that I've read. I really want to go back and reread the others just to see Eliza and Fredrick then now that I see how their story plays out.
I was given a complimentary digital opportunity to copy of this book prior to release so that I could read it and leave a honest review. This will definitely be one that I recommend to friends to read.
Eliza and Fredrick both have such strong wills and personalities that the banter that brings to the book is great! They both have emotional baggage to sort through. This is my favorite of the series! And I have loved the others that I've read. I really want to go back and reread the others just to see Eliza and Fredrick then now that I see how their story plays out.
I was given a complimentary digital opportunity to copy of this book prior to release so that I could read it and leave a honest review. This will definitely be one that I recommend to friends to read.
January 8, 2024
It's here!!! The heroine's story we've all been waiting for! And, boy, is it amazing. I expected plenty of banter from Eliza, and Teah delivered. Eliza is strong and passionate. She's not afraid to stand up for herself or take life by the horns. And then there's the swoonworthy Fredrick. OH, FREDRICK. I love him. He's an absolutely fantastic hero, and there's not a woman on earth who won't fall for him, including Eliza, and I was SO THERE FOR IT. Fredrick has a lot of inner demons to fight, but his strength and resilience are both heart-wrenching and attractive. Such a softy on the inside, he melted my heart. Moments that brought me to tears and others that had me holding my breath—this one was a fantastic read. Can't wait for more from Teah!
January 28, 2024
I have enjoyed this series and it was SO fun to see all of the old characters from the previous books pop into the story as well! I adore the Merry Men of Eaton and their long standing comradery with one another.
Eliza is a spinster of the worst kind and abhors men. She has inherited her late Aunts estate, and is happy to live unmarried, forging her own path in life without the interference of a man.
Frederick Marshall (aka Scarlet) has night mares of the life he lived before he settled back on land. The Captain has seen things he never wishes to see again and just wants to live his life with his ward and do everything to keep her happy and safe.
But when these two meet, sparks fly and not ones of attraction. Eliza, with her dragon tongue and Frederick with his, are at a continual battle of wits.
I absolutely loved this book and all of the banter that came with it. It was so fun to watch the relationships grow! Also, there is just something so heartwarming about a man snuggling a toddler that just gets me.
*I received a copy of this book as an ARC reviewer, but a positive review wasn’t required. All thoughts are solely what I personally thought of this beautiful book.❤️❤️❤️
Eliza is a spinster of the worst kind and abhors men. She has inherited her late Aunts estate, and is happy to live unmarried, forging her own path in life without the interference of a man.
Frederick Marshall (aka Scarlet) has night mares of the life he lived before he settled back on land. The Captain has seen things he never wishes to see again and just wants to live his life with his ward and do everything to keep her happy and safe.
But when these two meet, sparks fly and not ones of attraction. Eliza, with her dragon tongue and Frederick with his, are at a continual battle of wits.
I absolutely loved this book and all of the banter that came with it. It was so fun to watch the relationships grow! Also, there is just something so heartwarming about a man snuggling a toddler that just gets me.
*I received a copy of this book as an ARC reviewer, but a positive review wasn’t required. All thoughts are solely what I personally thought of this beautiful book.❤️❤️❤️
January 28, 2024
Eliza is a well known rule-shirker and man hater. They had never treated her fairly, so why should she bow to the dictates of society?
Frederick was forced to sea in the middle of his education, experienced the horrors of war, and had become a self-proclaimed recluse. Not to mention his other reason.
When the neighbors keep coming into inevitable contact with increasing undertones of attraction, how do they respond?
Read this book if you like:
🐈⬛ Witty Banter
🐈⬛ Independent Women
🐈⬛ Grumpy Captain
🐈⬛ Complicated Family Dynamics
🐈⬛ Noble Cause
🐈⬛ Personal Discovery
🐈⬛ Better Then The Best Friends
🐈⬛ Rallying the Troops
🐈⬛ Dual POV
🐈⬛ HEA
I received a complimentary copy; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Frederick was forced to sea in the middle of his education, experienced the horrors of war, and had become a self-proclaimed recluse. Not to mention his other reason.
When the neighbors keep coming into inevitable contact with increasing undertones of attraction, how do they respond?
Read this book if you like:
🐈⬛ Witty Banter
🐈⬛ Independent Women
🐈⬛ Grumpy Captain
🐈⬛ Complicated Family Dynamics
🐈⬛ Noble Cause
🐈⬛ Personal Discovery
🐈⬛ Better Then The Best Friends
🐈⬛ Rallying the Troops
🐈⬛ Dual POV
🐈⬛ HEA
I received a complimentary copy; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 1, 2025
Oy. This was good but it was *dark*! Lots of war stories and flashbacks, along with references to slavery throughout. I know that that is more realistic, but I'm really going through it in life rn and I don't need more "realistic" I need an escape!! I say this as a warning to others and not as a judgement in the writing at all. Also, when they say "enemies to lovers" trope the mean ENEMIES to lovers. It was hard watching them be so brutal to each other all the while knowing that they were actually nice people! As a result this book was just not for me, so 3 stars.
Read
May 7, 2025Super quick so I don't forget why this ended up on my dnf at 60%.
Eliza was super unlikeable to me, and at 60% I still wasn't warming to her so I know it won't improve for me. These characters who just have a giant chip on their shoulder and are determined to not find a smidge of self-awareness rarely (if ever) work for me, so I know when to call it quits now.
Eliza was super unlikeable to me, and at 60% I still wasn't warming to her so I know it won't improve for me. These characters who just have a giant chip on their shoulder and are determined to not find a smidge of self-awareness rarely (if ever) work for me, so I know when to call it quits now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2024
Such a delicious read!
I especially loved seeing the Merry men of Eaton and their families as they grow!
Watching Eliza learn that not all men are awful, and watching Frederick find his way through such a deep struggle was so satisfying.
Definitely recommend. You won't regret it.
I especially loved seeing the Merry men of Eaton and their families as they grow!
Watching Eliza learn that not all men are awful, and watching Frederick find his way through such a deep struggle was so satisfying.
Definitely recommend. You won't regret it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2025
Anger to release
After many years of anger for being forced out of school to serve in the nave Frederic comes to realize life lived in anger was not living at all. After much trouble two people finally come to realize life is better with love and forgiveness.
After many years of anger for being forced out of school to serve in the nave Frederic comes to realize life lived in anger was not living at all. After much trouble two people finally come to realize life is better with love and forgiveness.
May 10, 2025
Secrets
One of the best stories in the series. A delightful Yale of two people who start off as enemies and then find they can mend each other's hearts.
All books in this series have been well written. Teah has done a wonderful work!.
One of the best stories in the series. A delightful Yale of two people who start off as enemies and then find they can mend each other's hearts.
All books in this series have been well written. Teah has done a wonderful work!.
April 20, 2024
I loved reading this one! A fun enemies to lovers romance. But with the fun, there's also a lot of deep topics explored. Teah is excellent at developing relationships that seem realistic. Great book!
October 17, 2024
Great series
I appreciate that this entire series is well written and family oriented. I also enjoyed the banter in this book between Eliza and Fredrick.
I appreciate that this entire series is well written and family oriented. I also enjoyed the banter in this book between Eliza and Fredrick.
June 30, 2025
loved it!
Best book I have read in awhile! I enjoyed all of it! Super characters, super writing!
Don’t miss this book!
Best book I have read in awhile! I enjoyed all of it! Super characters, super writing!
Don’t miss this book!
September 12, 2025
I enjoyed this series, but confess I didn't like the main character, Eliza. Her shrewish behavior just put me off
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