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The Channel Fleet
A Naval Surgeon to Fight For
Bestselling author Carla Kelly’s Regency seriesThe Channel Fleet continues, and the life-and-death stakes couldn’t be higher for this dashing naval hero!
Return to her respectable life…
Or take a scandalous path to marriage?
As her snobbish aunt’s companion, penniless vicar’s daughter Jerusha Langley is sent to take a donation to the local naval hospital. There she meets dashing surgeon Jamie Wilson and embarks on a secret mission—sneaking out to help him care for injured sailors!
With his life in peril fighting Napoleon, Jamie has never considered taking a wife, yet he’s impressed by Jerusha’s nursing ability—and beauty inside and out. Jamie knows she’s risking a scandal by helping him. Can he risk his heart and save her reputation with a marriage offer?
From Harlequin Your romantic escape to the past.
Return to her respectable life…
Or take a scandalous path to marriage?
As her snobbish aunt’s companion, penniless vicar’s daughter Jerusha Langley is sent to take a donation to the local naval hospital. There she meets dashing surgeon Jamie Wilson and embarks on a secret mission—sneaking out to help him care for injured sailors!
With his life in peril fighting Napoleon, Jamie has never considered taking a wife, yet he’s impressed by Jerusha’s nursing ability—and beauty inside and out. Jamie knows she’s risking a scandal by helping him. Can he risk his heart and save her reputation with a marriage offer?
From Harlequin Your romantic escape to the past.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 20, 2024
68 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
About the author
Carla Kelly
138 books805 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Although Carla Kelly is well known among her readers as a writer of Regency romance, her main interest (and first writing success) is Western American fiction—more specifically, writing about America's Indian Wars. Although she had sold some of her work before, it was not until Carla began work in the National Park Service as a ranger/historian at Fort Laramie National Historic Site did she get serious about her writing career. (Or as she would be the first to admit, as serious as it gets.)
Carla wrote a series of what she now refers to as the "Fort Laramie stories," which are tales of the men, women and children of the Indian Wars era in Western history. Two of her stories, A Season for Heroes and Kathleen Flaherty's Long Winter, earned her Spur Awards from the Western Writers of America. She was the second woman to earn two Spurs from WWA (which, as everyone knows, is all you need to ride a horse). Her entire Indian Wars collection was published in 2003 as Here's to the Ladies: Stories of the Frontier Army. It remains her favorite work.
The mother of five children, Carla has always allowed her kids to earn their keep by appearing in her Regencies, most notably Marian's Christmas Wish, which is peopled by all kinds of relatives. Grown now, the Kelly kids are scattered here and there across the U.S. They continue to provide feedback, furnish fodder for stories and make frantic phone calls home during the holidays for recipes. (Carla Kelly is some cook.)
Carla's husband, Martin, is Director of Theatre at Valley City State University, in Valley City, North Dakota. Carla is currently overworked as a staff writer at the local daily newspaper. She also writes a weekly, award-winning column, "Prairie Lite."
Carla only started writing Regencies because of her interest in the Napoleonic Wars, which figures in many of her Regency novels and short stories. She specializes in writing about warfare at sea, and about the ordinary people of the British Isles who were, let's face it, far more numerous than lords and ladies.
Hobbies? She likes to crochet afghans, and read British crime fiction and history, principally military history. She's never happier than talking about the fur trade or Indian Wars with Park Service cronies. Her most recent gig with the National Park Service was at Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site on the Montana/North Dakota border.
Here's another side to this somewhat prosaic woman: She recently edited the fur trade journal of Swiss artist Rudolf F. Kurz (the 1851-1852 portion), and is gratified now and then to be asked to speak on scholarly subjects. She has also worked for the State Historical Society of North Dakota as a contract researcher. This has taken her to glamorous drudgery in several national archives and military history repositories. Gray archives boxes and old documents make her salivate.
Her mantra for writing comes from the subject of her thesis, Robert Utley, that dean of Indian Wars history. He told her the secret to writing is "to put your ass in the chair and keep it there until you're done." He's right, of course.
Her three favorite fictional works have remained constant through the years, although their rankings tend to shift: War and Peace, The Lawrenceville Stories, and A Town Like Alice. Favorite historical works are One Vast Winter Count, On the Border with Mackenzie and Crossing the Line. Favorite crime fiction authors are Michael Connelly, John Harvey and Peter Robinson.
And that's all she can think of that would interest anyone. Carla Kelly is quite ordinary, except when she is sometimes prevailed upon to sing a scurrilous song about lumberjacks, or warble "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" in Latin. Then you m
Although Carla Kelly is well known among her readers as a writer of Regency romance, her main interest (and first writing success) is Western American fiction—more specifically, writing about America's Indian Wars. Although she had sold some of her work before, it was not until Carla began work in the National Park Service as a ranger/historian at Fort Laramie National Historic Site did she get serious about her writing career. (Or as she would be the first to admit, as serious as it gets.)
Carla wrote a series of what she now refers to as the "Fort Laramie stories," which are tales of the men, women and children of the Indian Wars era in Western history. Two of her stories, A Season for Heroes and Kathleen Flaherty's Long Winter, earned her Spur Awards from the Western Writers of America. She was the second woman to earn two Spurs from WWA (which, as everyone knows, is all you need to ride a horse). Her entire Indian Wars collection was published in 2003 as Here's to the Ladies: Stories of the Frontier Army. It remains her favorite work.
The mother of five children, Carla has always allowed her kids to earn their keep by appearing in her Regencies, most notably Marian's Christmas Wish, which is peopled by all kinds of relatives. Grown now, the Kelly kids are scattered here and there across the U.S. They continue to provide feedback, furnish fodder for stories and make frantic phone calls home during the holidays for recipes. (Carla Kelly is some cook.)
Carla's husband, Martin, is Director of Theatre at Valley City State University, in Valley City, North Dakota. Carla is currently overworked as a staff writer at the local daily newspaper. She also writes a weekly, award-winning column, "Prairie Lite."
Carla only started writing Regencies because of her interest in the Napoleonic Wars, which figures in many of her Regency novels and short stories. She specializes in writing about warfare at sea, and about the ordinary people of the British Isles who were, let's face it, far more numerous than lords and ladies.
Hobbies? She likes to crochet afghans, and read British crime fiction and history, principally military history. She's never happier than talking about the fur trade or Indian Wars with Park Service cronies. Her most recent gig with the National Park Service was at Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site on the Montana/North Dakota border.
Here's another side to this somewhat prosaic woman: She recently edited the fur trade journal of Swiss artist Rudolf F. Kurz (the 1851-1852 portion), and is gratified now and then to be asked to speak on scholarly subjects. She has also worked for the State Historical Society of North Dakota as a contract researcher. This has taken her to glamorous drudgery in several national archives and military history repositories. Gray archives boxes and old documents make her salivate.
Her mantra for writing comes from the subject of her thesis, Robert Utley, that dean of Indian Wars history. He told her the secret to writing is "to put your ass in the chair and keep it there until you're done." He's right, of course.
Her three favorite fictional works have remained constant through the years, although their rankings tend to shift: War and Peace, The Lawrenceville Stories, and A Town Like Alice. Favorite historical works are One Vast Winter Count, On the Border with Mackenzie and Crossing the Line. Favorite crime fiction authors are Michael Connelly, John Harvey and Peter Robinson.
And that's all she can think of that would interest anyone. Carla Kelly is quite ordinary, except when she is sometimes prevailed upon to sing a scurrilous song about lumberjacks, or warble "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" in Latin. Then you m
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
March 5, 2025
Imagine my joy when I discovered that one of my favorite authors had a new book and my library had it! Carla Kelly writes historicals about ordinary people caught in difficult circumstances, and I love it.
Jerusha find herself a spinster at 25 and being volunteered to be her aunt’s ladies companion in Plymouth. It’s a miserable existence. While bringing a basket to wounded officers, she runs into an old childhood friend who is a surgeon. He persuaded her to come work at the hospital and write letters for the wounded enlisted. She enjoys it so much that she sneaks out of the house several days a week to go to the hospital.
We all know she’s going to be caught eventually and what will happen to her?
The romance between Jerusha and Jamie was amazing. This book had all of the things I love in a Carla Kelly book. A feisty heroine and a solid romantic hero. Along with the cast side characters that anyone could love. There is plenty of time spent in the hospital helping the wounded. We even get some time spent in the surgery on a ship. Jerusha discovers that she’s good at helping the men and she even has some medical skills.
I really enjoyed this book and was sad to see it end. Spending time in Carla Kelly’s historic world was a pleasure.
Safety spoiler
Jerusha find herself a spinster at 25 and being volunteered to be her aunt’s ladies companion in Plymouth. It’s a miserable existence. While bringing a basket to wounded officers, she runs into an old childhood friend who is a surgeon. He persuaded her to come work at the hospital and write letters for the wounded enlisted. She enjoys it so much that she sneaks out of the house several days a week to go to the hospital.
We all know she’s going to be caught eventually and what will happen to her?
The romance between Jerusha and Jamie was amazing. This book had all of the things I love in a Carla Kelly book. A feisty heroine and a solid romantic hero. Along with the cast side characters that anyone could love. There is plenty of time spent in the hospital helping the wounded. We even get some time spent in the surgery on a ship. Jerusha discovers that she’s good at helping the men and she even has some medical skills.
I really enjoyed this book and was sad to see it end. Spending time in Carla Kelly’s historic world was a pleasure.
Safety spoiler
September 20, 2024
Carla Kelly returns to familiar territory--the British Navy's main hospital near Plymouth, England.
Our heroine, Jerusha Langley, is a vicar's daughter, with no dowry (for reasons) who is sent to Plymouth to be a companion to her aunt, Lady Oakshott. A mission of mercy to the hospital, organized by one of the leading ladies of Plymouth society, leads Jerusha to an encounter with James Wilson, a childhood acquaintance who is now a surgeon at Stonehouse, the naval hospital in nearby Devonport. Jerusha is supposed to delivery her aunt's care package to the officers' ward, but ends up among the seamen instead, because that's who Jamie is caring for. Soon, Jerusha is sneaking out to help at the hospital, happy to be able to help.
The reader knows that she will eventually get caught out. But how bad will the consequences be?
All the Carla Kelly standard characters here: plucky heroine (check), stalwart hero (check), motley but benevolent household servants (check), snobbish, mean relative (check and double check). Interesting hospital patients and staff help keep the story moving along.
It was fun watch Jerusha gain her self-confidence and sense of worthiness. The romance was sweet, as well as realistic.
As always the author's ability to put the reader right in the middle of the action was terrific. This book features the Battle of Trafalgar from the POV of those at the surgeon's station on one of the participating ships. Kelly gives us the grim reality while keeping us focused on the people, not the carnage.
This being a Harlequin Historical the reader is guaranteed a happy ending and this one was well earned. I hope the author will give us another visit to this interesting corner of history.
Our heroine, Jerusha Langley, is a vicar's daughter, with no dowry (for reasons) who is sent to Plymouth to be a companion to her aunt, Lady Oakshott. A mission of mercy to the hospital, organized by one of the leading ladies of Plymouth society, leads Jerusha to an encounter with James Wilson, a childhood acquaintance who is now a surgeon at Stonehouse, the naval hospital in nearby Devonport. Jerusha is supposed to delivery her aunt's care package to the officers' ward, but ends up among the seamen instead, because that's who Jamie is caring for. Soon, Jerusha is sneaking out to help at the hospital, happy to be able to help.
The reader knows that she will eventually get caught out. But how bad will the consequences be?
All the Carla Kelly standard characters here: plucky heroine (check), stalwart hero (check), motley but benevolent household servants (check), snobbish, mean relative (check and double check). Interesting hospital patients and staff help keep the story moving along.
It was fun watch Jerusha gain her self-confidence and sense of worthiness. The romance was sweet, as well as realistic.
As always the author's ability to put the reader right in the middle of the action was terrific. This book features the Battle of Trafalgar from the POV of those at the surgeon's station on one of the participating ships. Kelly gives us the grim reality while keeping us focused on the people, not the carnage.
This being a Harlequin Historical the reader is guaranteed a happy ending and this one was well earned. I hope the author will give us another visit to this interesting corner of history.
August 20, 2025
Would have been four stars but they are separated for a good 75% of the book :(
March 11, 2025
4.5⭐️
I love a gritty and realistic, historical romance, and this fits the bill perfectly!
Theresa has a spinster down on her luck when her parents decide to send her to Portsmouth to stay with her and and learn to become a ladies companion. She’s told by your parents and by her aunt not to have anything to do with the Navy. A hard task indeed when Napoleon has the troops at war in this port is busy sending out and serving troops.
Intending to do her best, she unwillingly stumbles upon a familiar face from her past, Jamie, who now is a naval surgeon. Not only wanting to help with the poor wounded men, but also get to see Jamie Moore. She starts to use her spare time serving the wounded at the naval hospital.
This is a gritty and realistic portrayal of medical services during the Napoleonic war. Jamie and Jerusha find a bit of happiness and light with each other during this dark time.
I absolutely loved these characters and the adventure in relationship takes them on.
The narration provided by Helen Keeley was absolutely excellent. She’s have a great voice for reading historical romance. She did an amazing job voicing the characters and bringing out their personalities. She really brought the story to life.
This is an excellent audiobook and I highly recommend it.
I love a gritty and realistic, historical romance, and this fits the bill perfectly!
Theresa has a spinster down on her luck when her parents decide to send her to Portsmouth to stay with her and and learn to become a ladies companion. She’s told by your parents and by her aunt not to have anything to do with the Navy. A hard task indeed when Napoleon has the troops at war in this port is busy sending out and serving troops.
Intending to do her best, she unwillingly stumbles upon a familiar face from her past, Jamie, who now is a naval surgeon. Not only wanting to help with the poor wounded men, but also get to see Jamie Moore. She starts to use her spare time serving the wounded at the naval hospital.
This is a gritty and realistic portrayal of medical services during the Napoleonic war. Jamie and Jerusha find a bit of happiness and light with each other during this dark time.
I absolutely loved these characters and the adventure in relationship takes them on.
The narration provided by Helen Keeley was absolutely excellent. She’s have a great voice for reading historical romance. She did an amazing job voicing the characters and bringing out their personalities. She really brought the story to life.
This is an excellent audiobook and I highly recommend it.
September 19, 2025
If you want a book that truly puts the historical in historical romance, look no further than A Naval Surgeon to Fight For by Carla Kelly. I have rarely seen a historical romance with so much attention to detail—especially on a lesser-known topic in the genre: naval medicine.
Jerusha Langley is twenty-five, has no prospects, and has become (through no fault of her own) a burden to her parents. Her insipid mother and hard-line clergyman father spent her small dowry on her feckless brother’s army commission, leaving her with nothing to entice a suitor. Hoping to give her a chance at life as a lady’s companion, her parents ship her off to her aunt in Plymouth, who will—at least in theory—help her find a position. But when Jerusha arrives, she discovers that her aunt is just as vain and insipid as her mother, refusing to rise before noon and expecting Jerusha to serve as a household maid.
Jerusha is at her wits’ end when she’s asked to deliver a basket to wounded naval officers being treated at the nearby hospital. There she runs into naval surgeon James Wilson. They knew each other as children and quickly reconnect when Jerusha begins volunteering at the hospital each morning, before her aunt awakens. But all this sneaking around and lying weighs on Jerusha, and with the war against Napoleon raging, nothing with Jamie is certain, even as they find themselves falling hard for each other.
If you want a book with a true Heroine, this is the novel for you. Jerusha is insightful, sharp, and genuinely good. I was drawn in by the way she handles the injustices in her life: first her parents giving away her dowry without even telling her, and then her aunt’s constant degradation. She isn’t one of those characters who never complains, but she is someone who figures out how to move forward once she’s had her kvetch.
The attention to historical detail is what makes A Naval Surgeon to Fight For shine. Carla Kelly clearly did deep research into early-19th-century naval medical practices, particularly those aboard ship. Historical romance readers are not accustomed to battleship settings—we’re used to ballrooms and gaming hells—so it took extra work to build the world of the hospital and the various ships in the story. I was captivated by the care with which Kelly created the setting and described the medical procedures.
This book is what I call a “transparent door” romance: we know when the sex scenes happen, and they’re described in terms of overall feeling and satisfaction, but without anatomical details or graphic description. If you prefer closed-door romances, this should work for you. I’m an open-door reader myself, but I didn’t mind the low spice level because the yearning was next level. I love a man who pines!
The next time someone asks me for a Regency recommendation, this is going straight on my list—it’s unmistakably Regency, but in a wonderfully fresh way. I’m already looking forward to reading more from Carla Kelly!
Jerusha Langley is twenty-five, has no prospects, and has become (through no fault of her own) a burden to her parents. Her insipid mother and hard-line clergyman father spent her small dowry on her feckless brother’s army commission, leaving her with nothing to entice a suitor. Hoping to give her a chance at life as a lady’s companion, her parents ship her off to her aunt in Plymouth, who will—at least in theory—help her find a position. But when Jerusha arrives, she discovers that her aunt is just as vain and insipid as her mother, refusing to rise before noon and expecting Jerusha to serve as a household maid.
Jerusha is at her wits’ end when she’s asked to deliver a basket to wounded naval officers being treated at the nearby hospital. There she runs into naval surgeon James Wilson. They knew each other as children and quickly reconnect when Jerusha begins volunteering at the hospital each morning, before her aunt awakens. But all this sneaking around and lying weighs on Jerusha, and with the war against Napoleon raging, nothing with Jamie is certain, even as they find themselves falling hard for each other.
If you want a book with a true Heroine, this is the novel for you. Jerusha is insightful, sharp, and genuinely good. I was drawn in by the way she handles the injustices in her life: first her parents giving away her dowry without even telling her, and then her aunt’s constant degradation. She isn’t one of those characters who never complains, but she is someone who figures out how to move forward once she’s had her kvetch.
The attention to historical detail is what makes A Naval Surgeon to Fight For shine. Carla Kelly clearly did deep research into early-19th-century naval medical practices, particularly those aboard ship. Historical romance readers are not accustomed to battleship settings—we’re used to ballrooms and gaming hells—so it took extra work to build the world of the hospital and the various ships in the story. I was captivated by the care with which Kelly created the setting and described the medical procedures.
This book is what I call a “transparent door” romance: we know when the sex scenes happen, and they’re described in terms of overall feeling and satisfaction, but without anatomical details or graphic description. If you prefer closed-door romances, this should work for you. I’m an open-door reader myself, but I didn’t mind the low spice level because the yearning was next level. I love a man who pines!
The next time someone asks me for a Regency recommendation, this is going straight on my list—it’s unmistakably Regency, but in a wonderfully fresh way. I’m already looking forward to reading more from Carla Kelly!
May 24, 2025
"She had noted from years of observation that men liked to explain things." - I love this heroine
Jerusha's parents use her dowery to pay for her feckless brother's military commission, so she is sent to stay with her aunt and train to be a lady's companion. While delivering a performative charity basket for her aunt she meets (again, they knew each other in passing as children) Jamie the handsome naval surgeon. She starts volunteering in the ward with the injured, sparks fly, and with a push from meddling colleagues they marry.
Although the class difference isn't enormous, it's still son of (I want to say) land agent and daughter of vicar with ties to earl. Jerusha makes a conscious effort to bridge the class divide as soon as she leaves her parent's house, and continues that journey with her aunt's servants (as a companion she's in a liminal space in the home) and by working with enlisted wounded. Jamie is, of course, now a surgeon. But there is resistance from her family clinging to their role.
Kelly is a "door very slightly cracked open" author, but still the chemistry and yearning between these two was off the charts. And it's a lot of long-distance yearning because these two are separated more than they are together, he's on ships providing medical service to the blockade and working in the ward between trips. She slips into his life, providing rest and solace, and giving him a Home for the first time.
One of the reasons she slips into his life so well is that she shares his calling to heal. Kelly really gets into the limitations put on her because of gender. Jerusha gains skills and competency, and starts a medical book education. If back then surgeons became surgeons through book learning and serving as assistants, she's doing it as well as any man. Anyway, they both have this shared calling, and there's some nice comparisons of their true Service and the religious hypocrisy of her rector father and family, wanting only to provide for their own class, and who "differentiated between the poor and the deserving poor."
What truly makes this book stand out, and where Kelly shows her vast knowledge of military history and medicine is when Jerusha and Jamie are enjoying a short interlude on his ship and they Forrest Gump into the battle of Trafalger. Kelly really brings the scene to life, and it takes up fully a quarter of the book. The more I read this by author the more I like her.
Jerusha's parents use her dowery to pay for her feckless brother's military commission, so she is sent to stay with her aunt and train to be a lady's companion. While delivering a performative charity basket for her aunt she meets (again, they knew each other in passing as children) Jamie the handsome naval surgeon. She starts volunteering in the ward with the injured, sparks fly, and with a push from meddling colleagues they marry.
Although the class difference isn't enormous, it's still son of (I want to say) land agent and daughter of vicar with ties to earl. Jerusha makes a conscious effort to bridge the class divide as soon as she leaves her parent's house, and continues that journey with her aunt's servants (as a companion she's in a liminal space in the home) and by working with enlisted wounded. Jamie is, of course, now a surgeon. But there is resistance from her family clinging to their role.
Kelly is a "door very slightly cracked open" author, but still the chemistry and yearning between these two was off the charts. And it's a lot of long-distance yearning because these two are separated more than they are together, he's on ships providing medical service to the blockade and working in the ward between trips. She slips into his life, providing rest and solace, and giving him a Home for the first time.
One of the reasons she slips into his life so well is that she shares his calling to heal. Kelly really gets into the limitations put on her because of gender. Jerusha gains skills and competency, and starts a medical book education. If back then surgeons became surgeons through book learning and serving as assistants, she's doing it as well as any man. Anyway, they both have this shared calling, and there's some nice comparisons of their true Service and the religious hypocrisy of her rector father and family, wanting only to provide for their own class, and who "differentiated between the poor and the deserving poor."
What truly makes this book stand out, and where Kelly shows her vast knowledge of military history and medicine is when Jerusha and Jamie are enjoying a short interlude on his ship and they Forrest Gump into the battle of Trafalger. Kelly really brings the scene to life, and it takes up fully a quarter of the book. The more I read this by author the more I like her.
September 10, 2024
Once again Carla Kelly has given readers a charming Regency Romance that tears at your heart strings but never crushes the spirit. She does this by creating absolutely real characters - so real we live their lives and feel their experiences with them - and putting them in realistic situations. In this book the heroine, Jerusha, is a penniless rural vicar's daughter in her mid twenties. Sent to live with a harsh Aunt in London, Jerusha's only future is finding employment as a ladies' companion and spending the rest of her life catering to crabby rich women and blending into the woodwork. However, chance takes her to a naval hospital nearby, and Jerusha's hopes and attitudes begin to change.
Kelly's books always take her readers into a part of Regency life not often explored in Romances; this time it's a naval hospital and life on board a ship during battle. And her heroes are men you can respect and like, though often not noble or rich. I was so pleased to see this book on the shelves and thoroughly enjoyed it!
NB - Katherine Center writes similar Contemporary Romance, and a new book from either author is cause for celebration to me.
Kelly's books always take her readers into a part of Regency life not often explored in Romances; this time it's a naval hospital and life on board a ship during battle. And her heroes are men you can respect and like, though often not noble or rich. I was so pleased to see this book on the shelves and thoroughly enjoyed it!
NB - Katherine Center writes similar Contemporary Romance, and a new book from either author is cause for celebration to me.
August 24, 2024
good but not her best
I was so excited to see a new Regency Carla Kelly book that I bought it immediately. I love her Regency books, particularly the medical ones. However, if you are like me and revel in the details of period warfare and medicine, you may be disappointed. I was.
**Spoiler alert!** **(I’m serious!)**
I liked it at first. The heroine is a vicar’s daughter whose parents spend her dowry on a military commission for her ne’er-do-well younger brother, leaving her with nothing but a future in service. She ends up in Plymouth and helping at Stonehouse Naval Hospital. So far, so good. But then she finds insta-love with a surgeon there whom she knew briefly as a child, lots of not-quite-believable things happen, and then it’s suddenly over. Sadly, she develops a habit of fainting with exhaustion and missing the best historical parts, and the medical parts that I adore in her other books are mostly glossed over.
There’s one brief description of debriding a wound, and another quick description of suturing a ruptured artery, but otherwise it’s all “he lost a hand but it was his non-dominant hand so he was fine” and “he sutured the wound” sort of thing. That, to me, was extremely disappointing as it is not what I have come to expect from a Carla Kelly!
Beyond that, while the heroine was likable, she wasn’t particularly believable as written. We are told over and over that she is shy and retiring, but throughout the book she chats at everyone and makes bold choices. She never needs to “recharge” by herself as a shy person normally would after putting herself out the way she does. Also, the butler at first encourages her, then later does an about-face when she’s discovered and she never thinks twice about it. That was confusing. Several other minor characters are obviously only there to facilitate moving the story ahead. In short, the usual character depth is missing.
Finally, who puts their character in the Battle of Trafalgar only to have them be insensible to most of the action and aftermath?! The Battle of Trafalgar itself receives far too little page time. Much of it is her husband telling her what to expect as they get the orlop ready for the coming carnage. This was fabulous. But then description becomes skeletal, she sleeps through the aftermath, and her time on the Pickle reads more like a book report than part of a book. Again, simply not up to par for a writer as accomplished as this one.
**end spoilers**
The whole second half of the book felt rushed, as if Ms Kelly had a deadline and didn’t have time to do the research or put thought into how she could portray the situations in an interesting way that was believable for her characters. I’ve spent a day stewing on this and I’m still irritated. I’ll read it again in a few weeks and update then if I find I was wrong about the book. I still gave it 4 stars because even a less-great Carla Kelly book is head and shoulders above most of what’s available to read, particularly in the Regency genre. If you haven’t read her books, I would recommend almost any of her other Regency military titles before this one. She is about the only author whose focus is on more average, working people, which to me is like a breath of fresh air. There are only so many dukes and earls I can handle before I need a surgeon or a marine to regound me! So, read Carla Kelly, but maybe not this one if you want her best.
I was so excited to see a new Regency Carla Kelly book that I bought it immediately. I love her Regency books, particularly the medical ones. However, if you are like me and revel in the details of period warfare and medicine, you may be disappointed. I was.
**Spoiler alert!** **(I’m serious!)**
I liked it at first. The heroine is a vicar’s daughter whose parents spend her dowry on a military commission for her ne’er-do-well younger brother, leaving her with nothing but a future in service. She ends up in Plymouth and helping at Stonehouse Naval Hospital. So far, so good. But then she finds insta-love with a surgeon there whom she knew briefly as a child, lots of not-quite-believable things happen, and then it’s suddenly over. Sadly, she develops a habit of fainting with exhaustion and missing the best historical parts, and the medical parts that I adore in her other books are mostly glossed over.
There’s one brief description of debriding a wound, and another quick description of suturing a ruptured artery, but otherwise it’s all “he lost a hand but it was his non-dominant hand so he was fine” and “he sutured the wound” sort of thing. That, to me, was extremely disappointing as it is not what I have come to expect from a Carla Kelly!
Beyond that, while the heroine was likable, she wasn’t particularly believable as written. We are told over and over that she is shy and retiring, but throughout the book she chats at everyone and makes bold choices. She never needs to “recharge” by herself as a shy person normally would after putting herself out the way she does. Also, the butler at first encourages her, then later does an about-face when she’s discovered and she never thinks twice about it. That was confusing. Several other minor characters are obviously only there to facilitate moving the story ahead. In short, the usual character depth is missing.
Finally, who puts their character in the Battle of Trafalgar only to have them be insensible to most of the action and aftermath?! The Battle of Trafalgar itself receives far too little page time. Much of it is her husband telling her what to expect as they get the orlop ready for the coming carnage. This was fabulous. But then description becomes skeletal, she sleeps through the aftermath, and her time on the Pickle reads more like a book report than part of a book. Again, simply not up to par for a writer as accomplished as this one.
**end spoilers**
The whole second half of the book felt rushed, as if Ms Kelly had a deadline and didn’t have time to do the research or put thought into how she could portray the situations in an interesting way that was believable for her characters. I’ve spent a day stewing on this and I’m still irritated. I’ll read it again in a few weeks and update then if I find I was wrong about the book. I still gave it 4 stars because even a less-great Carla Kelly book is head and shoulders above most of what’s available to read, particularly in the Regency genre. If you haven’t read her books, I would recommend almost any of her other Regency military titles before this one. She is about the only author whose focus is on more average, working people, which to me is like a breath of fresh air. There are only so many dukes and earls I can handle before I need a surgeon or a marine to regound me! So, read Carla Kelly, but maybe not this one if you want her best.
November 9, 2024
This was so similar to another one of Kelly's books that I kept thinking I'd read it before. But who cares, I enjoyed it anyway.
November 27, 2024
Hè verdorie , ik was nog zo van plan om hier langzaam van te genieten maar het is niet gelukt .. zoals gewoonlijk met een boek van C.K.
Het verhaal verloopt zoals ik gewend ben van deze schrijfster en zou de volle 5 sterren waard zijn geweest als ik niet met wat vraagtekens rondom de butler was blijven zitten . Wanneer Jerusha aankomt laat hij haar binnen maar dat is dan ook alles , hij wordt omschreven als een heel oud mannetje die al minstens 10 jaar met pensioen had moeten zijn . Daarna is hij vriendelijk en helpt haar zelfs met naar het hospitaal gaan zonder dat haar tante het weet . Maar aan het eind van het verhaal lijkt hij opeens een andere man te zijn .
Misschien heb ik te snel gelezen en daardoor iets gemist maar het is wel de reden waarom ik 4 sterren geef in plaats van 5
Het verhaal verloopt zoals ik gewend ben van deze schrijfster en zou de volle 5 sterren waard zijn geweest als ik niet met wat vraagtekens rondom de butler was blijven zitten . Wanneer Jerusha aankomt laat hij haar binnen maar dat is dan ook alles , hij wordt omschreven als een heel oud mannetje die al minstens 10 jaar met pensioen had moeten zijn . Daarna is hij vriendelijk en helpt haar zelfs met naar het hospitaal gaan zonder dat haar tante het weet . Maar aan het eind van het verhaal lijkt hij opeens een andere man te zijn .
Misschien heb ik te snel gelezen en daardoor iets gemist maar het is wel de reden waarom ik 4 sterren geef in plaats van 5
August 24, 2024
I wouldn't describe this as a romance novel; it's more of an historical novel with a love story at its center. The conflict here doesn't come from or hinder the relationship: these two characters fall in love right off the bat and are only separated by war.
That said, it's a sweet, cozy love story that centers a very sad and bloody book about the horror of naval warfare, the British blockade of Napoleonic France, and the battle of Trafalgar. Well researched with believable characters, as always with Carla Kelly.
That said, it's a sweet, cozy love story that centers a very sad and bloody book about the horror of naval warfare, the British blockade of Napoleonic France, and the battle of Trafalgar. Well researched with believable characters, as always with Carla Kelly.
August 21, 2024
another great Carla kelly book!
One of my favorite authors, I often reread her older books. I was so happy to see another NEW naval historical published and got this on pre-order.
Great historical esp if you want a break from dukes and duchesses and want a view of a middle or working class
One of my favorite authors, I often reread her older books. I was so happy to see another NEW naval historical published and got this on pre-order.
Great historical esp if you want a break from dukes and duchesses and want a view of a middle or working class
March 2, 2025
Vicar's daughter Jerusha Langley has no inheritance, and at age 25 is sent to live with her snobbish widowed aunt to train to become a paid lady's companion. Her aunt sleeps until the fashionable hour of noon every day, so in the morning's Jerusha spends her time at a hospital for soldiers injured during the Napoleonic War, often the sailors wounded while on blockade duty. There she meets Jamie Wilson, dashing Scottish naval surgeon, who once rescued her from a lake and taught her to swim when they were children. Jamie is hesitant to give his heart to Jerusha, because he's seen the worst that can happen to sailors at war, but he's falling for her kind heart and patience with the wounded and dying.
This is a great historical romance where neither of the main characters are aristocrats or upper class. It's also got a good dose of history. Set in 1805, Carla Kelly details war at sea in a way I haven't seen since reading Naomi Novik's Temeraire books, and I appreciate the attention to detail with care available, particularly on board a ship. I was surprised that this was a little longer than category length, but I was never bored, because Kelly balances well between the romance and the plot and historical setting. For a mostly closed-door category, this packs in a lot of pining and heartfelt emotion!
Thank you to Harlequin Audio for an ALC for review. The audiobook for A Naval Surgeon to Fight for is out 3/18/25.
This is a great historical romance where neither of the main characters are aristocrats or upper class. It's also got a good dose of history. Set in 1805, Carla Kelly details war at sea in a way I haven't seen since reading Naomi Novik's Temeraire books, and I appreciate the attention to detail with care available, particularly on board a ship. I was surprised that this was a little longer than category length, but I was never bored, because Kelly balances well between the romance and the plot and historical setting. For a mostly closed-door category, this packs in a lot of pining and heartfelt emotion!
Thank you to Harlequin Audio for an ALC for review. The audiobook for A Naval Surgeon to Fight for is out 3/18/25.
March 8, 2025
This review is for the audiobook read by Helen Keeley. The narrator is excellent, very similar to Mary Jane Wells. I googled it to see if they are the same person, but I wasn't able to find the answer. She is a joy to listen to.
As far as the story, it made me cry about 10 times. My goodness, what Jerusha and Jamie went through, and all those men at the hospital. I wouldn't read this book without tissues nearby. Look for the helpers - - - Jamie and Jerusha certainly were the helpers.
Thank you to Harlequin Audio for the book. Opinions are my own.
As far as the story, it made me cry about 10 times. My goodness, what Jerusha and Jamie went through, and all those men at the hospital. I wouldn't read this book without tissues nearby. Look for the helpers - - - Jamie and Jerusha certainly were the helpers.
Thank you to Harlequin Audio for the book. Opinions are my own.
August 23, 2024
I was very excited to learn Carla Kelly was writing a new book in her Napoleonic War naval series. They are my favorites of her books. I have read all her books and am thrilled that she continues to write. I love the solid character of the characters in her books. They are always sensible people with real challenges who help others as they fall in love. They have courage and faith and make their world a better place.
November 2, 2025
Very similar vibes to “Becoming Lady Lockwood”
This had all my favorite tropes and James Wilson? More of him please!! The way he treats Jerusha you just know it’s a man written by a woman
This had all my favorite tropes and James Wilson? More of him please!! The way he treats Jerusha you just know it’s a man written by a woman
August 21, 2024
A wonderful Napoleonic War novel
I waited months for this and failed in my resolve to read it slowly. Done overnight. Sigh! I love the independent spunky women that she writes about. I may be a sucker for her naval heroes since I am married to a retired Navy commander who is as wondrous as her heroes. I have only 2 words for Carla Kelly: Write Faster!
I waited months for this and failed in my resolve to read it slowly. Done overnight. Sigh! I love the independent spunky women that she writes about. I may be a sucker for her naval heroes since I am married to a retired Navy commander who is as wondrous as her heroes. I have only 2 words for Carla Kelly: Write Faster!
August 22, 2024
Carla Kelly hits another one out of the park!
Ms. Kelly has created a tender and moving story about everyday people living with dignity and grace in turbulent times. I so enjoy that the characters are not over-the-top dukes and lords. They are people who are more noble because of their strength and courage.
Ms. Kelly has created a tender and moving story about everyday people living with dignity and grace in turbulent times. I so enjoy that the characters are not over-the-top dukes and lords. They are people who are more noble because of their strength and courage.
August 20, 2024
A little far-fetched, but an excellent book about the battle of Trafalgar and the aftermath. I’m so glad she has not limited herself to religious books and is still turning out fantastic historical romance with heroic characters, historical accuracy, and no filler.
October 15, 2024
Terrific book. One of the things I like most about this author is her use of ordinary people instead of members of the nobility. It makes a refreshing change of pace. In this book, we have Jerusha, the penniless daughter of a vicar, and Jamie, a surgeon with the Royal Navy.
Jerusha's prospects are slim in her small hometown. Her mother sends her to Plymouth to be a companion to her aunt, where she looks at a dismal future catering to grouchy old women. Her aunt is selfish, snobbish, and mean-spirited. Things begin to change when chance takes her to a naval hospital nearby. She encounters Jamie, a navy surgeon she knew as a child, and discovers a calling to help the injured.
Jamie joined the Royal Navy as a surgeon's mate when he was thirteen. He eventually studied and passed the exams to become a surgeon. He spends most of his time either at the hospital in Devonport or onboard various ships. Because of the war with Napoleon, he is very busy. The last person he expects to see is the little girl from fifteen years earlier.
Jerusha quickly becomes involved with Jamie's work at the hospital. Her aunt would disapprove, so she sneaks out. Experience tells the reader that this will eventually cause a problem. I loved Jerusha's interactions with the patients she helped. Their stories are frequently heartbreaking, but some are filled with hope. I liked seeing how her confidence grew as she took on more responsibility.
I loved seeing the relationship between Jamie and Jerusha develop. It started in a fun manner, as Jamie referred to the day they met. There is a sweet part that refers back to that day, and Jamie won my heart right away with how he comforts her. I liked seeing them together. Their interactions are real and relatable, from the discussions of their work to the lighter moments of teasing. It is an unusual relationship in that they spend more time apart than together because of Jamie's long periods spent at sea. However, the often difficult and extreme circumstances of their time together bring them closer than a more traditional relationship is likely to do. The scene where Jerusha joined Jamie on the ship was especially intense. The ending was great, with a twist that would affect their future.
One of the many things I loved about this book was the detailed descriptions of the hospital and its patients. They weren't just nameless props for the story but portrayed as real human beings. Their lives and personalities were realistic, and their injuries and actions were believable. This book gave me a different perspective on the Napoleonic War's naval blockade, the effects on people, and the Battle of Trafalgar.
As a side note: The name Jerusha is unusual and memorable, and it took me a while to remember where I had heard it before. I finally recalled that Jerusha was the preacher's wife's name in James Michener's book Hawaii.
Jerusha's prospects are slim in her small hometown. Her mother sends her to Plymouth to be a companion to her aunt, where she looks at a dismal future catering to grouchy old women. Her aunt is selfish, snobbish, and mean-spirited. Things begin to change when chance takes her to a naval hospital nearby. She encounters Jamie, a navy surgeon she knew as a child, and discovers a calling to help the injured.
Jamie joined the Royal Navy as a surgeon's mate when he was thirteen. He eventually studied and passed the exams to become a surgeon. He spends most of his time either at the hospital in Devonport or onboard various ships. Because of the war with Napoleon, he is very busy. The last person he expects to see is the little girl from fifteen years earlier.
Jerusha quickly becomes involved with Jamie's work at the hospital. Her aunt would disapprove, so she sneaks out. Experience tells the reader that this will eventually cause a problem. I loved Jerusha's interactions with the patients she helped. Their stories are frequently heartbreaking, but some are filled with hope. I liked seeing how her confidence grew as she took on more responsibility.
I loved seeing the relationship between Jamie and Jerusha develop. It started in a fun manner, as Jamie referred to the day they met. There is a sweet part that refers back to that day, and Jamie won my heart right away with how he comforts her. I liked seeing them together. Their interactions are real and relatable, from the discussions of their work to the lighter moments of teasing. It is an unusual relationship in that they spend more time apart than together because of Jamie's long periods spent at sea. However, the often difficult and extreme circumstances of their time together bring them closer than a more traditional relationship is likely to do. The scene where Jerusha joined Jamie on the ship was especially intense. The ending was great, with a twist that would affect their future.
One of the many things I loved about this book was the detailed descriptions of the hospital and its patients. They weren't just nameless props for the story but portrayed as real human beings. Their lives and personalities were realistic, and their injuries and actions were believable. This book gave me a different perspective on the Napoleonic War's naval blockade, the effects on people, and the Battle of Trafalgar.
As a side note: The name Jerusha is unusual and memorable, and it took me a while to remember where I had heard it before. I finally recalled that Jerusha was the preacher's wife's name in James Michener's book Hawaii.
April 20, 2025
3.5 stars. Jerusha, a vicar's daughter, was raised as a (minor) member of the upper classes, and when she married a humble Navy surgeon, her snobbish family considers her to have lowered herself. But Jerusha fell in love with Jamie Wilson when she was volunteering at a naval hospital, during the Napoleonic wars. Even working at the hospital was considered beneath her, so she does her work there in secret, until the truth comes out, and the posh aunt she is staying with has a 'hissy fit'.
But Jerusha feels a calling to help the wounded sailors in the hospital. In other times, she would have been a nurse or a doctor, but at the turn of the nineteenth century, these options weren't open to her. And she bravely marries Jamie, despite her selfish family's feelings.
Because it's wartime, Jerusha and Jamie have little time together before he is called to sea. Through a set of (slightly unbelievable) circumstances, Jerusha ends up on Jamie's ship during the Battle of Trafalgar, one of England's greatest ever sea victories. This section of the book is a bit grim and bloody, but at the same time it was very interesting to have an 'inside' view of the famous battle. The writing tended a little towards the jingoistic, but compassion was shown towards the enemy (the French) as well as celebrating England's glorious moment. It was quite moving at times, actually. The focus (in fact of the whole book) was very much on the ordinary people who went to war, not on the officers and admirals so much.
The book finishes as England celebrates its victory, while mourning the loss of their revered 'little admiral' (Nelson, who died during the battle). There is a kind of reconciliation between Jerusha and her mother. The reader is left knowing that the war is not yet over, but Jerusha and Jamie have a strong bond, and you believe their relationship will last the distance. Overall it was a good read, although there were some sad and somewhat confronting scenes at times throughout the book. Jerusha's family were horrible, but once the plot moved on from that, it picked up. I liked the historical background, and it had the feel of realism, unlike some other HRs which sometimes just feel like modern women in long frocks.
But Jerusha feels a calling to help the wounded sailors in the hospital. In other times, she would have been a nurse or a doctor, but at the turn of the nineteenth century, these options weren't open to her. And she bravely marries Jamie, despite her selfish family's feelings.
Because it's wartime, Jerusha and Jamie have little time together before he is called to sea. Through a set of (slightly unbelievable) circumstances, Jerusha ends up on Jamie's ship during the Battle of Trafalgar, one of England's greatest ever sea victories. This section of the book is a bit grim and bloody, but at the same time it was very interesting to have an 'inside' view of the famous battle. The writing tended a little towards the jingoistic, but compassion was shown towards the enemy (the French) as well as celebrating England's glorious moment. It was quite moving at times, actually. The focus (in fact of the whole book) was very much on the ordinary people who went to war, not on the officers and admirals so much.
The book finishes as England celebrates its victory, while mourning the loss of their revered 'little admiral' (Nelson, who died during the battle). There is a kind of reconciliation between Jerusha and her mother. The reader is left knowing that the war is not yet over, but Jerusha and Jamie have a strong bond, and you believe their relationship will last the distance. Overall it was a good read, although there were some sad and somewhat confronting scenes at times throughout the book. Jerusha's family were horrible, but once the plot moved on from that, it picked up. I liked the historical background, and it had the feel of realism, unlike some other HRs which sometimes just feel like modern women in long frocks.
August 31, 2024
In the beginning, this book was like "The Surgeon's Lady", servants who help you, injured warriors who need you and a Navy surgeon to love you. Then, the book changed. The servants turn on you and the surgeon leaves you. Being a Carla Kelly book, all turns out for the best. The dysfunctional family helps you and absence makes the heart grow fonder.
Love waits while the surgeon spends 3 months on a frigate fighting a war. There are travels on Navy vessel fighting in a war fighting Napoleon. There are adventures in a Naval hospital, helping wounded warriors. All come to a head when forces that be help the Surgeon's wife be with him on a ship, which then joins the fight!!
As with all Carla Kelly book, the male character is strong, brave and sexy and is loved by a beautiful woman who helps him save those wounded warriors.
Unlike Carla Kelly, there are a lot of sexy bed scenes, a nude husband, then nude men who fell off a French ship. I love Carla Kelly sex scenes, because she does not do many, and when she does they are the best. She also does not epilogues and there is one in this book, not the best but at least it is an epilogue.
BEST USE OF: Washing faces. Using people to keep your secret. Talking back. Falling in love from afar. Falling in a pond.
ALPHA MALE: 10
SPUNKY HEROINE: 10
SEX: 8
HEA: Yes!!!
PROLOGUE/EPILOGUE: Both - and they were great!!
Rating:
10 - keeper forever
Heat:
8 - married sex scenes with little description
COVER COVERS IT: Best. Cover. Ever. actually reflects what characters look like.
HOLLYWOOD CALLING: This book should be made into a movie or TV series.
Love waits while the surgeon spends 3 months on a frigate fighting a war. There are travels on Navy vessel fighting in a war fighting Napoleon. There are adventures in a Naval hospital, helping wounded warriors. All come to a head when forces that be help the Surgeon's wife be with him on a ship, which then joins the fight!!
As with all Carla Kelly book, the male character is strong, brave and sexy and is loved by a beautiful woman who helps him save those wounded warriors.
Unlike Carla Kelly, there are a lot of sexy bed scenes, a nude husband, then nude men who fell off a French ship. I love Carla Kelly sex scenes, because she does not do many, and when she does they are the best. She also does not epilogues and there is one in this book, not the best but at least it is an epilogue.
BEST USE OF: Washing faces. Using people to keep your secret. Talking back. Falling in love from afar. Falling in a pond.
ALPHA MALE: 10
SPUNKY HEROINE: 10
SEX: 8
HEA: Yes!!!
PROLOGUE/EPILOGUE: Both - and they were great!!
Rating:
10 - keeper forever
Heat:
8 - married sex scenes with little description
COVER COVERS IT: Best. Cover. Ever. actually reflects what characters look like.
HOLLYWOOD CALLING: This book should be made into a movie or TV series.
March 18, 2025
A surprisingly intense Regency drama.
Jerusha Langley knows she is destined to be a spinster. After her mother spent her dowry to purchase her brother's commission, she knows no man of her class would ever wed her. So when her aunt mentions the possibility of obtaining Jerusha the position of a lady's companion, Jerusha jumps at the chance.
Too bad the reality is her aunt (Lady Oakshott to her!) is drowning in debt and wants Jerusha as free labor. When a chance encounter with a the boy (now man) who saved her life as a child sets Jerusha on the path of volunteering at a war hospital, she must choose between her status and loneliness...or forging her own path.
While the cover and title suggests a light hearted romance, this was a very intense and realistic historical set in war time. Though the Harlequin line lets you know it will be a HEA, this is the Napoleonic Wars, something the narrative will not let you forget. It is clear the author did her research regarding Navy medicine at the time, as well as little details like some officers' wives accompanied them aboard ship. I only wish there was a historical note at the end to expand on some of it!
Recommended for historical military romance readers who like a little grit with their romance.
The narrator for the audiobook did an excellent job as well. Each character had a distinct voice, which made it easy to listen to. I will check out more books with this narrator!
Thank you to NetGalley for the review copy.
Jerusha Langley knows she is destined to be a spinster. After her mother spent her dowry to purchase her brother's commission, she knows no man of her class would ever wed her. So when her aunt mentions the possibility of obtaining Jerusha the position of a lady's companion, Jerusha jumps at the chance.
Too bad the reality is her aunt (Lady Oakshott to her!) is drowning in debt and wants Jerusha as free labor. When a chance encounter with a the boy (now man) who saved her life as a child sets Jerusha on the path of volunteering at a war hospital, she must choose between her status and loneliness...or forging her own path.
While the cover and title suggests a light hearted romance, this was a very intense and realistic historical set in war time. Though the Harlequin line lets you know it will be a HEA, this is the Napoleonic Wars, something the narrative will not let you forget. It is clear the author did her research regarding Navy medicine at the time, as well as little details like some officers' wives accompanied them aboard ship. I only wish there was a historical note at the end to expand on some of it!
Recommended for historical military romance readers who like a little grit with their romance.
The narrator for the audiobook did an excellent job as well. Each character had a distinct voice, which made it easy to listen to. I will check out more books with this narrator!
Thank you to NetGalley for the review copy.
August 2, 2024
I am so so *happy* to see that Carla Kelly is still writing historical romances for Harlequin/Mills & Boon. A while back I had read a rumor that she was only writing Latter Day Saint romances these days, and I have to admit I was a little bit devastated when I saw that. So yes, utterly thrilled to bits to see that rumor was wrong.
OK enough of that - this book was straight up brilliant. Carla Kelly is one of those wonderful, rare gems who writes historical romances about ordinary working class people, sailors, soldiers, surgeons - not a damned Duke in sight is what I'm saying. Her characters as always feel so very real and relatable, and the romance tender, at times fragile, and incredibly sweet as it builds in the most extreme and difficult of circumstances. And wow were those circumstances difficult - those instances on wards A and B, I was so deeply moved. Seriously well done Ms Kelly, you had me going from tears to romantic smiles time and time again.
I adored our leading couple. I especially love those little moments of sillyness between the hero and heroine, when they tease each other, play, or share a secret in joke. It feels like - well - the exact sort of thing flesh and blood people who are in love do really.
Enough gushing - what can I say - Carla Kelly is quite simply one of the best HR writers out there and as long as she's writing this sort of thing I shall always be there to read it.
OK enough of that - this book was straight up brilliant. Carla Kelly is one of those wonderful, rare gems who writes historical romances about ordinary working class people, sailors, soldiers, surgeons - not a damned Duke in sight is what I'm saying. Her characters as always feel so very real and relatable, and the romance tender, at times fragile, and incredibly sweet as it builds in the most extreme and difficult of circumstances. And wow were those circumstances difficult - those instances on wards A and B, I was so deeply moved. Seriously well done Ms Kelly, you had me going from tears to romantic smiles time and time again.
I adored our leading couple. I especially love those little moments of sillyness between the hero and heroine, when they tease each other, play, or share a secret in joke. It feels like - well - the exact sort of thing flesh and blood people who are in love do really.
Enough gushing - what can I say - Carla Kelly is quite simply one of the best HR writers out there and as long as she's writing this sort of thing I shall always be there to read it.
September 12, 2025
This is a heartfelt and emotionally grounded story with the perfect blend of wartime grit, quiet heroism, and slow-burn romance.
Jerusha Langley, is a morally strong, quietly defiant, and capable women in ways society doesn't always appreciate. Sent on a dull errand to the naval hospital, she’s quickly drawn into a secret world of healing and humanity alongside Jamie Wilson, a selfless surgeon more interested in saving lives than securing a title or a fortune.
Their chemistry isn’t flashy, but it simmers. What starts as mutual respect and admiration deepens into a romance tested by war, class expectations, and very real personal risk. Jamie is the kind of understated hero you don’t see enough of—no rakish arrogance here, just competence, courage, and a warm, wry heart.
The narration adds an extra layer of richness. The narrator brings just the right touch of gravity to the difficult scenes and tenderness to the quieter moments. Jerusha’s inner world, especially, is beautifully voiced—full of compassion, conflict, and wit. You’ll want to listen slowly to savor it, but also race ahead to see how everything resolves.
This is the perfect story if you enjoy quietly courageous heroines and war-time settings with emotional depth.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Harlequin Audio and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Jerusha Langley, is a morally strong, quietly defiant, and capable women in ways society doesn't always appreciate. Sent on a dull errand to the naval hospital, she’s quickly drawn into a secret world of healing and humanity alongside Jamie Wilson, a selfless surgeon more interested in saving lives than securing a title or a fortune.
Their chemistry isn’t flashy, but it simmers. What starts as mutual respect and admiration deepens into a romance tested by war, class expectations, and very real personal risk. Jamie is the kind of understated hero you don’t see enough of—no rakish arrogance here, just competence, courage, and a warm, wry heart.
The narration adds an extra layer of richness. The narrator brings just the right touch of gravity to the difficult scenes and tenderness to the quieter moments. Jerusha’s inner world, especially, is beautifully voiced—full of compassion, conflict, and wit. You’ll want to listen slowly to savor it, but also race ahead to see how everything resolves.
This is the perfect story if you enjoy quietly courageous heroines and war-time settings with emotional depth.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Harlequin Audio and am voluntarily leaving my review.
March 3, 2025
Thank you to Harlequin Audio for a chance to read an arc this book! 🖤
3⭐️ interesting and sweet | tropes: childhood friends to lovers, slow burn, closed door | audio
Overall Thoughts 💭:
Jerusha is the daughter of a vicar who was sent to live with (rather, work for) her widowed aunt after her mother spent her dowry to aid her brother's career. James is a surgeon who struggles with loving her while not being in her social sphere. I love the childhood savior trope. The two of them were sweet and understanding towards each other and I loved their yearning. This book was interesting, and seeing Jerusha struggle thinking about what she wanted her life to be and the options (or lack of options) she has. She exists in society but is the lowest rung and has to live in this purgatory state. I liked the hospital aspect and hearing the stories of different patients. Jerusha helping patients in the hospital was a real highlight. Now for the negatives... I didn't love how much time they spent apart in the middle and I also didn't realize how much naval activity would be front and center in this book. That was my fault entirely. Those parts of the book dragged a lot and couldn't keep my attention at all.
3⭐️ interesting and sweet | tropes: childhood friends to lovers, slow burn, closed door | audio
Overall Thoughts 💭:
Jerusha is the daughter of a vicar who was sent to live with (rather, work for) her widowed aunt after her mother spent her dowry to aid her brother's career. James is a surgeon who struggles with loving her while not being in her social sphere. I love the childhood savior trope. The two of them were sweet and understanding towards each other and I loved their yearning. This book was interesting, and seeing Jerusha struggle thinking about what she wanted her life to be and the options (or lack of options) she has. She exists in society but is the lowest rung and has to live in this purgatory state. I liked the hospital aspect and hearing the stories of different patients. Jerusha helping patients in the hospital was a real highlight. Now for the negatives... I didn't love how much time they spent apart in the middle and I also didn't realize how much naval activity would be front and center in this book. That was my fault entirely. Those parts of the book dragged a lot and couldn't keep my attention at all.
July 5, 2025
I really struggled on what to rate this one because the author is fabulous, but I ended up going for my usual rating system in the end and gave it a 3 star because I would recommend it, but only to a limited audience. I absolutely loved the author's writing, knowledge of the history, depth of characters, and plot outline. The main characters and side characters were all realistic and added to the story in so many ways. I also loved that the author was able to put in some historical details that I haven't seen in many other books of the same time period. Unfortunately, it was a little more explicit than I would have liked, which makes me sad because it keeps me from reading other books by this author and telling all my friends about this book. I personally am intrigued by medical stuff and healing, but those who get queasy by that sort of stuff may want to read cautiously because there is realistic war injuries addressed in this story. I thought it added to the realism and emotion of the book, but not all audiences would appreciate that sort of thing, so I thought I'd mention it for those who want to know what they are getting into ahead of time.
March 5, 2025
Internal happy dance, smile.
Genre: Historical Fiction Period Drama
Setting: Regency England During Napoleonic War
It’s a classy Regency period drama about a middle- to upper-class woman. The author masterfully captures the era's complexities, including class distinctions, societal roles, war, honor, love, and a generational knowledge gap.
I pause and stare at the ceiling, trying to find the right words to convey that this is one of the rare finds. The leading female character is refreshingly thoughtful, solidly founded on reason, and untraditionally brave. I want to be more like her. The meet-cute moment is fan-worthy when the Scottish surgeon returns into her life. He’s worthy of her, and that is saying something.
The narration was sublime and intensified the experience. I would highly recommend it in audio book format. Cheers for the narration!
Note: It includes tastefully crafted spice between the duo.
This is an honest review sponsored through NetGalley.
Genre: Historical Fiction Period Drama
Setting: Regency England During Napoleonic War
It’s a classy Regency period drama about a middle- to upper-class woman. The author masterfully captures the era's complexities, including class distinctions, societal roles, war, honor, love, and a generational knowledge gap.
I pause and stare at the ceiling, trying to find the right words to convey that this is one of the rare finds. The leading female character is refreshingly thoughtful, solidly founded on reason, and untraditionally brave. I want to be more like her. The meet-cute moment is fan-worthy when the Scottish surgeon returns into her life. He’s worthy of her, and that is saying something.
The narration was sublime and intensified the experience. I would highly recommend it in audio book format. Cheers for the narration!
Note: It includes tastefully crafted spice between the duo.
This is an honest review sponsored through NetGalley.
May 31, 2025
Carla Kelly has truly outdone herself with A Naval Surgeon to Fight For. From the first page, I was completely swept away by the vivid world she so masterfully brings to life. Her knack for historical detail is nothing short of remarkable—I felt fully immersed in the time period, as though I were living alongside the characters.
The romance between Jamie Wilson and Jerusha Langley is heartfelt and beautifully paced. Watching their relationship unfold was a genuine joy, with emotional beats that felt both authentic and deeply satisfying. And while the leads shine, the supporting cast adds richness and nuance, giving the story layers that make it all the more rewarding.
This is historical romance at its finest: a compelling love story set against a richly textured backdrop, written with intelligence, heart, and grace. A Naval Surgeon to Fight For has absolutely earned its place on my “all-time favorites” shelf. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
The romance between Jamie Wilson and Jerusha Langley is heartfelt and beautifully paced. Watching their relationship unfold was a genuine joy, with emotional beats that felt both authentic and deeply satisfying. And while the leads shine, the supporting cast adds richness and nuance, giving the story layers that make it all the more rewarding.
This is historical romance at its finest: a compelling love story set against a richly textured backdrop, written with intelligence, heart, and grace. A Naval Surgeon to Fight For has absolutely earned its place on my “all-time favorites” shelf. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
November 17, 2025
Plymouth England and at sea 1805. Finished this
book 09/19/25. Carla Kelly excels at writing about
military men. This had some sadness, joy and low
-key romance. Gave this 4 stars.
At age 25, Jerusha went to live w/ her hard-to-
please Aunt Hortense who slept till noon. The
Admiral was in charge of the Navy Hospital &
his spouse chose select women to prepare
baskets of select items for officers who worked
there.
Aunt H chose her niece to deliver the basket to
said hospital. Jerusha became reacquainted w/
Jamie who rescued her from a duck pond as a
girl. He was now Surgeon Wilson who reported
to the Chief Surgeon. He worked 12 hour days
or more.
Jamie talked her into volunteering to read or
help write letters for the patients there, many
who'd been wounded. She'd help 3 days a week
730AM- 11AM. She acclimated to men who chose
not to have visitors, or their medical condition
worsened. One man sketched portraits of patients
& staff and still-life. Surgeons were ordered to sea
as needed.
book 09/19/25. Carla Kelly excels at writing about
military men. This had some sadness, joy and low
-key romance. Gave this 4 stars.
At age 25, Jerusha went to live w/ her hard-to-
please Aunt Hortense who slept till noon. The
Admiral was in charge of the Navy Hospital &
his spouse chose select women to prepare
baskets of select items for officers who worked
there.
Aunt H chose her niece to deliver the basket to
said hospital. Jerusha became reacquainted w/
Jamie who rescued her from a duck pond as a
girl. He was now Surgeon Wilson who reported
to the Chief Surgeon. He worked 12 hour days
or more.
Jamie talked her into volunteering to read or
help write letters for the patients there, many
who'd been wounded. She'd help 3 days a week
730AM- 11AM. She acclimated to men who chose
not to have visitors, or their medical condition
worsened. One man sketched portraits of patients
& staff and still-life. Surgeons were ordered to sea
as needed.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews