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Darnalay Castle #2
Swept Into the Storm
Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, 1824.
Sometimes storms can unearth the most precious treasure. . .
Ever since he unexpectedly inherited his father’s earldom in the Scottish Highlands, Cameron Dunn’s been searching for something, anything, to bring meaning to his new life—a search that reaches an abrupt end when he’s washed up, alone, on a deserted beach in Mexico.
Or at least the beach should be deserted. There’s no village for hundreds of miles. So who’s that beautiful woman walking toward him over the sand?
Letty Monro has a business to run, a plan for her future. Rescuing a shipwrecked earl wasn’t on the agenda. But the man’s desperate, so of course she’ll bring him to the British Settlement—for fifty pounds. And his signet ring for collateral. She’s even prepared to look past the fact he’s a peer, part of the system of oppression she despises.
As they begin their journey, sailing south through the Caribbean sea, Cameron finds himself falling for this guarded, stubborn businesswoman, and the heat smoldering between them threatens to burst into flame. Keeping her distance from the Earl of Banton will prove one of the greatest challenges Letty has ever faced. Especially when she notices, in the distracting warmth of his brown eyes, the one thing they have in common . . . How lost they both truly are.
Sometimes storms can unearth the most precious treasure. . .
Ever since he unexpectedly inherited his father’s earldom in the Scottish Highlands, Cameron Dunn’s been searching for something, anything, to bring meaning to his new life—a search that reaches an abrupt end when he’s washed up, alone, on a deserted beach in Mexico.
Or at least the beach should be deserted. There’s no village for hundreds of miles. So who’s that beautiful woman walking toward him over the sand?
Letty Monro has a business to run, a plan for her future. Rescuing a shipwrecked earl wasn’t on the agenda. But the man’s desperate, so of course she’ll bring him to the British Settlement—for fifty pounds. And his signet ring for collateral. She’s even prepared to look past the fact he’s a peer, part of the system of oppression she despises.
As they begin their journey, sailing south through the Caribbean sea, Cameron finds himself falling for this guarded, stubborn businesswoman, and the heat smoldering between them threatens to burst into flame. Keeping her distance from the Earl of Banton will prove one of the greatest challenges Letty has ever faced. Especially when she notices, in the distracting warmth of his brown eyes, the one thing they have in common . . . How lost they both truly are.
ebook
Published October 24, 2024
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About the author
Louise Mayberry
7 books37 followersLouise Mayberry writes gritty, emotional historical romance that’s just as interested in the lives (and loves) of laborers and street waifs as it is earls and heiresses. She’s known for her impeccable research; immersive settings; layered, emotionally complex characters; and un-putdownable plots.
Louise lives with her family in the Upper Midwest, where she savors the summers and survives the winters. When not writing, she can be found wandering in her garden, attempting to talk her kids into eating healthy food, or curled up in a pool of sunshine with a cup of tea and a good book.
Louise lives with her family in the Upper Midwest, where she savors the summers and survives the winters. When not writing, she can be found wandering in her garden, attempting to talk her kids into eating healthy food, or curled up in a pool of sunshine with a cup of tea and a good book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
May 12, 2023
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥🔥 (This is generous. The scenes are not overly long or super explicit)
Humor: A touch but overall I found this book has a somber feel
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and the heroine (lots from the hero!)
Cliffhanger: No
Epilogue: Yes, 6 months later
Reading Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy in e-book format
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
You could, but it’s not necessary. Cameron is our hero in this book and his sister, Jane, was the heroine in book 1. The romance and story do stand well alone though as there is not a lot of character overlap for either story.
Basic plot:
Cameron Dunn washes up on the shore in the Yucatan Peninsula and is begrudgingly rescued by Letty, who has greater priorities.
Give this a try if you want:
- Late Georgian time period (1824), but as this is the Yucatan Peninsula, I think it was the First Mexican Republic? (feel free to educate me, I know hardly anything about this area!)
- Yucatan Peninsula/London/Scotland settings (about half in Yucatan and the rest split)
- Scottish, red haired, Earl hero
- Maya, smuggler heroine
- Heroine nurses hero back to health AND hero nurses heroine back to health
- Skinny dipping
- LGBT positive
- bit of instalust –
- asthma rep (hero)
- both virgins!
- touch of reverse grump/sunshine
- Medium to high steam – there are 4 full scenes. Mayberry’s prose leans towards the poetic and emotional versus explicit in some scenes.
First lines:
”SENORS! Ojo!” The pilot’s black hair whipped in the wind. His hand shook as he pointed at something beyond Cameron. Something out to sea.
My thoughts:
Ohh this book! It put me through the wringer. I am really enjoying the unique voice of Mayberry. Her characters, settings, and situations never go quite where I expect them to, and the emotional aspect is everything I crave in a romance.
This book has a bit of a reverse sunshine and grump feel, though fitting the dynamic relationship and characters in this book into that trope doesn’t explain it at all. Both were so unique and unlike any characters I have ever read before.
Cameron is just the sweetest man. He’s an Earl in Scotland that has ended up on the Yucatan. He knows he’s a good person and believes he is doing the best he can for everyone in his life. He’s positive, sweet, caring and protective but doesn’t realize protecting someone from everything can be suffocating and restrictive. His relationship with Letty opens his eyes to so much and his growth was really touching throughout the novel.
Letty is a hard character to love. She bucks every stereotypical romance heroine description. She is very closed off and protects her heart, even from her family. She really tore my (and Cameron’s!) heart out a few times and I’m still not sure I fully love her, but the epilogue placated me quite a bit. But even with those feelings, I have such respect for her. Bravo, Louise, for telling Letty’s story. Letty has one of those personalities that thinks they have to do everything themselves and the weight they carry on their shoulders is heavy. I think Cameron is the perfect match to her and together they are so much stronger.
I struggled a touch with the bit of instalust feels in this one. Letty was very closed off and a bit cold to Cameron. They also didn’t spend a lot of time actually communicating in the first half of the book so when they fell into bed together, for me, it didn’t quite hold the build up I personally love in romance. I also wanted Letty to come to her feelings a bit more solidly, I wasn’t convinced of her love at the end of the story (but again, the epilogue soothed me :) )
I did enjoy the ending resolution. I thought it it was well done!
Content warnings:
Author given content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes: all these scenes are a touch light on the details and not overly long
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥🔥 (This is generous. The scenes are not overly long or super explicit)
Humor: A touch but overall I found this book has a somber feel
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and the heroine (lots from the hero!)
Cliffhanger: No
Epilogue: Yes, 6 months later
Reading Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy in e-book format
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
You could, but it’s not necessary. Cameron is our hero in this book and his sister, Jane, was the heroine in book 1. The romance and story do stand well alone though as there is not a lot of character overlap for either story.
Basic plot:
Cameron Dunn washes up on the shore in the Yucatan Peninsula and is begrudgingly rescued by Letty, who has greater priorities.
Give this a try if you want:
- Late Georgian time period (1824), but as this is the Yucatan Peninsula, I think it was the First Mexican Republic? (feel free to educate me, I know hardly anything about this area!)
- Yucatan Peninsula/London/Scotland settings (about half in Yucatan and the rest split)
- Scottish, red haired, Earl hero
- Maya, smuggler heroine
- Heroine nurses hero back to health AND hero nurses heroine back to health
- Skinny dipping
- LGBT positive
- bit of instalust –
- asthma rep (hero)
- both virgins!
- touch of reverse grump/sunshine
- Medium to high steam – there are 4 full scenes. Mayberry’s prose leans towards the poetic and emotional versus explicit in some scenes.
First lines:
”SENORS! Ojo!” The pilot’s black hair whipped in the wind. His hand shook as he pointed at something beyond Cameron. Something out to sea.
My thoughts:
Ohh this book! It put me through the wringer. I am really enjoying the unique voice of Mayberry. Her characters, settings, and situations never go quite where I expect them to, and the emotional aspect is everything I crave in a romance.
This book has a bit of a reverse sunshine and grump feel, though fitting the dynamic relationship and characters in this book into that trope doesn’t explain it at all. Both were so unique and unlike any characters I have ever read before.
Cameron is just the sweetest man. He’s an Earl in Scotland that has ended up on the Yucatan. He knows he’s a good person and believes he is doing the best he can for everyone in his life. He’s positive, sweet, caring and protective but doesn’t realize protecting someone from everything can be suffocating and restrictive. His relationship with Letty opens his eyes to so much and his growth was really touching throughout the novel.
Letty is a hard character to love. She bucks every stereotypical romance heroine description. She is very closed off and protects her heart, even from her family. She really tore my (and Cameron’s!) heart out a few times and I’m still not sure I fully love her, but the epilogue placated me quite a bit. But even with those feelings, I have such respect for her. Bravo, Louise, for telling Letty’s story. Letty has one of those personalities that thinks they have to do everything themselves and the weight they carry on their shoulders is heavy. I think Cameron is the perfect match to her and together they are so much stronger.
I struggled a touch with the bit of instalust feels in this one. Letty was very closed off and a bit cold to Cameron. They also didn’t spend a lot of time actually communicating in the first half of the book so when they fell into bed together, for me, it didn’t quite hold the build up I personally love in romance. I also wanted Letty to come to her feelings a bit more solidly, I wasn’t convinced of her love at the end of the story (but again, the epilogue soothed me :) )
I did enjoy the ending resolution. I thought it it was well done!
Content warnings:
Author given content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes: all these scenes are a touch light on the details and not overly long
May 6, 2023
This book was really good and well written. A man named Cameron, who was the Earl of Banton gets swept into the ocean that was on a boat and ends up in this desert alone in the beach of Mexico.
He sees a woman go up to him thinks shes super beautiful named Letty Monro , whos a scottish mayan woman. She's been running a smuggling business since her father has died and trades him his ring his father gave to him his family crest on it to take him across to a place where there was people and houses a british settlement.
If you like this book it had
forced proximity
grumpy/sunshine
insta love
slow burn
gender reversal
light kinks
angst
I loved Cameron's character he was lovable and sweet, also Letty i loved their love she was also very she kept questioning his love and there were times she would leave even if she told him she wanted to be with him and marry him. She had to first love herself find out what she wanted. There was a lot of angst in this romance. Alot of the time she missed her mother and her sister back in Mexico but going to a new place to be with the earl in his castle with all his servants was strange to her. It was an adjustment even when she had left him yet again he found her again but didn't mean to found her kind of walked into her working as a housemaid. They were always meant to be and she always had his ring even when she was deciding what she wanted.
I gave this book 5 starts I just really liked it that much and I thank netgalley for letting me read this arc.
He sees a woman go up to him thinks shes super beautiful named Letty Monro , whos a scottish mayan woman. She's been running a smuggling business since her father has died and trades him his ring his father gave to him his family crest on it to take him across to a place where there was people and houses a british settlement.
If you like this book it had
forced proximity
grumpy/sunshine
insta love
slow burn
gender reversal
light kinks
angst
I loved Cameron's character he was lovable and sweet, also Letty i loved their love she was also very she kept questioning his love and there were times she would leave even if she told him she wanted to be with him and marry him. She had to first love herself find out what she wanted. There was a lot of angst in this romance. Alot of the time she missed her mother and her sister back in Mexico but going to a new place to be with the earl in his castle with all his servants was strange to her. It was an adjustment even when she had left him yet again he found her again but didn't mean to found her kind of walked into her working as a housemaid. They were always meant to be and she always had his ring even when she was deciding what she wanted.
I gave this book 5 starts I just really liked it that much and I thank netgalley for letting me read this arc.
May 6, 2023
I struggled to get into this story. It's not a bad story, but I didn't have the drive to continue reading it. Therefore, I put it down and picked it back up later. But I still struggled, except this time around, I was determined to finish. I will give it three stars and will also say it could have been me and not the story as to why it was a struggle to read it.
April 21, 2023
Swept into the Storm is book no. 2 in the Darnalay Castles series by Louise Mayberry.
🌊 forced proximity
🌊 care-taking
🌊 grumpy heroine / sunshine hero
"She was his Captain. His queen. And he, her most trusted, most trusting servant."
This book follows Cameron, the Earl of Banton - brother of the heroine from book one. Cameron's story starts off with him being shipwrecked and washed up alone on a deserted beach in Mexico.
Letty Monro is a Scottish/Mayan woman, fiercely strong and is set on bringing about immediate abolition to the British Empire, ensuring that no person can be enslaved any longer. Since her father's death, she's been running his business and through a seperate smuggling enterprise has been saving up funds to travel to London where she vows to spend every waking hour working for abolition.
When Letty discovers the shipwrecked Earl, she agrees to bring him to the British settlement in Belize for a price. As they sail together through the Carribbean sea, they find themselves falling for each other, but Letty can't allow these feelings to get in the way of her life's goal.
.
.
I greatly admired Letty's strength, resilience and determination in the face of such adversity. It was heart breaking to read what she, her family and many more went through at the hands of the British Empire.
Cameron was a charming character but underneath he was struggling to find his identity and purpose while living under the shadow of his influential father who's politics he didn't share. While Cameron is different to many of the peerage at this time, he has a lot of self reflection to do when he's still part of the same privileged system of power.
This was an enjoyable and unique read, unlike any I've read before. This did read more like a historical fiction though with the romance seen more in the background. I enjoyed the side characters we met in the beginning, particularly Letty's family and friends, whom I would've loved to have spent more time with.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
tws: references to slavery, racially motivated violence
Thank you to the author for the eArc, all opinions are my own.
🌊 forced proximity
🌊 care-taking
🌊 grumpy heroine / sunshine hero
"She was his Captain. His queen. And he, her most trusted, most trusting servant."
This book follows Cameron, the Earl of Banton - brother of the heroine from book one. Cameron's story starts off with him being shipwrecked and washed up alone on a deserted beach in Mexico.
Letty Monro is a Scottish/Mayan woman, fiercely strong and is set on bringing about immediate abolition to the British Empire, ensuring that no person can be enslaved any longer. Since her father's death, she's been running his business and through a seperate smuggling enterprise has been saving up funds to travel to London where she vows to spend every waking hour working for abolition.
When Letty discovers the shipwrecked Earl, she agrees to bring him to the British settlement in Belize for a price. As they sail together through the Carribbean sea, they find themselves falling for each other, but Letty can't allow these feelings to get in the way of her life's goal.
.
.
I greatly admired Letty's strength, resilience and determination in the face of such adversity. It was heart breaking to read what she, her family and many more went through at the hands of the British Empire.
Cameron was a charming character but underneath he was struggling to find his identity and purpose while living under the shadow of his influential father who's politics he didn't share. While Cameron is different to many of the peerage at this time, he has a lot of self reflection to do when he's still part of the same privileged system of power.
This was an enjoyable and unique read, unlike any I've read before. This did read more like a historical fiction though with the romance seen more in the background. I enjoyed the side characters we met in the beginning, particularly Letty's family and friends, whom I would've loved to have spent more time with.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
tws: references to slavery, racially motivated violence
Thank you to the author for the eArc, all opinions are my own.
May 5, 2023
A man without a purpose and a woman with one too big for her… What could go wrong?
Mind-blowing: could this be the right word for this book? Maybe yes… or maybe it’s too weak a word to describe one of the most beautiful books I’ve read this year. It’s even more gorgeous than the previous one of the series, in my opinion.
And yes, I didn’t particularly like Letty. No, it’s better to say that I hated her most of the time. But I understood her. She grew up surrounded by injustice, she wanted to right the wrongs she saw (and lived) since she was very little, it was who she was, she couldn’t be any different. I think it’s quite difficult to love a person like that, but Cameron did a good job and I loved him for that. He’s really not my type of hero, the kind, almost too sweet cinnamon roll type of hero, but I loved him very much. And no, you don’t have to love the characters to love a book. Because thanks to the amazing talent of the author these characters were real, breathing people to me and people are flawed, people make mistakes, people can be forgiven at the end. Let me just add a praise for the gorgeous descriptions of places. I wanted to visit that part of the world before, but now I’m actively looking for ways to go there and see all that beauty for myself.
So do yourself a favor and read this amazing book if you like well-researched historical romance with steam and an unconventional plot.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Mind-blowing: could this be the right word for this book? Maybe yes… or maybe it’s too weak a word to describe one of the most beautiful books I’ve read this year. It’s even more gorgeous than the previous one of the series, in my opinion.
And yes, I didn’t particularly like Letty. No, it’s better to say that I hated her most of the time. But I understood her. She grew up surrounded by injustice, she wanted to right the wrongs she saw (and lived) since she was very little, it was who she was, she couldn’t be any different. I think it’s quite difficult to love a person like that, but Cameron did a good job and I loved him for that. He’s really not my type of hero, the kind, almost too sweet cinnamon roll type of hero, but I loved him very much. And no, you don’t have to love the characters to love a book. Because thanks to the amazing talent of the author these characters were real, breathing people to me and people are flawed, people make mistakes, people can be forgiven at the end. Let me just add a praise for the gorgeous descriptions of places. I wanted to visit that part of the world before, but now I’m actively looking for ways to go there and see all that beauty for myself.
So do yourself a favor and read this amazing book if you like well-researched historical romance with steam and an unconventional plot.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 4, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️,75/5
Steam: 🌶️🌶️,5/5
Tropes:
- cinnamon roll mmc
- BIPOC fmc
- Scottish mmc
- They are both virgins!
- Set in Central America and Scotland
- Boat trip!
- Taking care of sick MC (twice!)
- Diverse cast of characters (lgbtq+ rep)
Criminy! The second book in the Darnalay castle series is here! And I was lucky enough to get to read the ARC and I was again enchanted by this lovely story that seems to be diving in between historical fiction and historical romance with on page steam.
This time around the story begins not in the Highlands or even in the UK, but in Mexico, where Cameron is stranded on a beach after being shipwrecked. Luckily for him the Scottish/Mayan Letty finds him on her way back home.
This setting took some getting used to for me and it focuses on the slavery in Central America at the time. Letty is a strong fighter for immediate abolition and no matter what, she will sacrifice everything to get it, even her own happiness.
Cameron (who we already met in Roses in red wax) is a big (virgin!!!) cinnamon roll ginger Scottish laird and falls head over heels with Letty. And he makes sure she knows it. And I just adored him. (Except: how many times can a person say ‘criminy!’) He is so swoony and I loved his struggle with wanting ‘to care’ for everything and everyone, but not seeing how that became toxic to his relationship with Letty.
I had issues with Letty, and that is saying it mildly. She made me want to give her a thorough scolding and I just wanted to shake her. Running away, in stead of confronting her family and business partner, and just leaving a note. If you want to be a fighter for immediate abolition, constantly advocating it, you don’t run away when things get tough and you’re afraid about other people’s reactions.
I think she had a lot of growing to do and the end of the book really saved my feelings about her.
It took me a while to get into this one and around the 35% mark the book just takes off and sucked me in. It’s not your regular histrom, it’s treading the line with historical fiction, but it still has its HEA and spicy goodness. The beginning and the end really focuses on the slavery and in between it suddenly focuses on the romance, which at times made the story feel a bit disconnected, but I enjoyed this a lot nonetheless. I mean I read almost in 1 sitting after the 40% mark 😅.
Thank you so much Louise for the eARC and the lovely chats while I was reading the book.
Steam: 🌶️🌶️,5/5
Tropes:
- cinnamon roll mmc
- BIPOC fmc
- Scottish mmc
- They are both virgins!
- Set in Central America and Scotland
- Boat trip!
- Taking care of sick MC (twice!)
- Diverse cast of characters (lgbtq+ rep)
Criminy! The second book in the Darnalay castle series is here! And I was lucky enough to get to read the ARC and I was again enchanted by this lovely story that seems to be diving in between historical fiction and historical romance with on page steam.
This time around the story begins not in the Highlands or even in the UK, but in Mexico, where Cameron is stranded on a beach after being shipwrecked. Luckily for him the Scottish/Mayan Letty finds him on her way back home.
This setting took some getting used to for me and it focuses on the slavery in Central America at the time. Letty is a strong fighter for immediate abolition and no matter what, she will sacrifice everything to get it, even her own happiness.
Cameron (who we already met in Roses in red wax) is a big (virgin!!!) cinnamon roll ginger Scottish laird and falls head over heels with Letty. And he makes sure she knows it. And I just adored him. (Except: how many times can a person say ‘criminy!’) He is so swoony and I loved his struggle with wanting ‘to care’ for everything and everyone, but not seeing how that became toxic to his relationship with Letty.
I had issues with Letty, and that is saying it mildly. She made me want to give her a thorough scolding and I just wanted to shake her. Running away, in stead of confronting her family and business partner, and just leaving a note. If you want to be a fighter for immediate abolition, constantly advocating it, you don’t run away when things get tough and you’re afraid about other people’s reactions.
I think she had a lot of growing to do and the end of the book really saved my feelings about her.
It took me a while to get into this one and around the 35% mark the book just takes off and sucked me in. It’s not your regular histrom, it’s treading the line with historical fiction, but it still has its HEA and spicy goodness. The beginning and the end really focuses on the slavery and in between it suddenly focuses on the romance, which at times made the story feel a bit disconnected, but I enjoyed this a lot nonetheless. I mean I read almost in 1 sitting after the 40% mark 😅.
Thank you so much Louise for the eARC and the lovely chats while I was reading the book.
May 4, 2023
🌊 Swept Into the Storm ⛓️
The Darnalay Castle Series Book 2
✒️ Louise Mayberry
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
Release Date 05/05/2023
Publisher Louise Mayberry
➪ https://a.co/d/2bg5VIU
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, 1824.
Sometimes storms can unearth the most precious treasure. . .
Ever since he unexpectedly inherited his father’s earldom in the Scottish Highlands, Cameron Dunn’s been searching for something, anything, to bring meaning to his new life—a search that reaches an abrupt end when he’s washed up, alone, on a deserted beach in Mexico.
Or at least the beach should be deserted. There’s no village for hundreds of miles. So who’s that beautiful woman walking toward him over the sand?
Letty Monro has a business to run, a plan for her future. Rescuing a shipwrecked earl wasn’t on the agenda. But the man’s desperate, so of course she’ll bring him to the British Settlement—for fifty pounds. And his signet ring for collateral. She’s even prepared to look past the fact he’s a peer, part of the system of oppression she despises.
As they begin their journey, sailing south through the Caribbean sea, Cameron finds himself falling for this guarded, stubborn businesswoman, and the heat smoldering between them threatens to burst into flame. Keeping her distance from the Earl of Banton will prove one of the greatest challenges Letty has ever faced. Especially when she notices, in the distracting warmth of his brown eyes, the one thing they have in common . . . How lost they both truly are.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
This book follows this time Cameron, the brother of the first book’s heroine. I was intrigued as I liked the gentle and kind soul portrayed in the previous story, a being who was not made to fight but to care for or about. He is a man who adapted to his circumstances and did what he could at best of his knowledge.
I do not post in general spoilers but there is no way out to explain my feelings about the heroine :
But while I understand Letty’s way of thinking and hopes, I do not see how, at this time period as firstly a woman even if determined, then of mixed heritage, could she expect being able to change alone the laws of a country that rejected and estranged her own father who was thought to have the right sex and skin color.
Then as her family business is threatened and harmed, she leaves with only a warning note to her business partner and friend!!!
The first one is while idealistic, completely unrealizable, and the second very unfeeling and cowardly. But it appears she tends to act this way, she runs away instead of confronting, for someone who wants to fight for others’ rights, it is being fainthearted.
I also did not like when she accepted Cameron’s offer, sure, her answer was rational, her way of rescuing herself when she was backed up against the wall. She was using him, but as a woman alone, she had few choices and even when he offered her more options, he was the better one.
Then when once more she asks him to renege on everything he has known, at that time, I had enough of her, she demands everything but gives nothing. What would have been their future if not about the convenient scheduled renew of the entailment, if Cameron had not been the one to be able to renew it, but one or two generation ms ahead, he would have had to seek his heir to demand him if he would agree to break it! What then of Cameron as he maybe would not have been able to make his « grand gesture ». For the era, Letty was asking too much of Cameron, a man alone when he already stood for his tenants when others were evicted by their landlords. She herself offers nothing outside her back each time she ran away and her lessons in socialism without really accepting the whole picture of the world around her. They could have come with the same solution or one fitting his circumstances depending on the state of the entail with talk and concerting. But not, she shoots, she throws his world at his face and she flees.
So while I loved Cameron, a man who alone does a lot for the people he grew with, then for the woman he fell for as he is willing to break the mold of his forefathers, Letty was too calculating and driven to be the lover Cameron needs. This story should have been a historical fiction, why the romance is awkward, Letty would make an outstanding heroine for the rights of the oppressed. She is too focused on her cause and uncompromising for me to be the right sweetheart for Cameron.
3 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen foreplays and lovemaking scenes
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
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The Darnalay Castle Series Book 2
✒️ Louise Mayberry
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Release Date 05/05/2023
Publisher Louise Mayberry
➪ https://a.co/d/2bg5VIU
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, 1824.
Sometimes storms can unearth the most precious treasure. . .
Ever since he unexpectedly inherited his father’s earldom in the Scottish Highlands, Cameron Dunn’s been searching for something, anything, to bring meaning to his new life—a search that reaches an abrupt end when he’s washed up, alone, on a deserted beach in Mexico.
Or at least the beach should be deserted. There’s no village for hundreds of miles. So who’s that beautiful woman walking toward him over the sand?
Letty Monro has a business to run, a plan for her future. Rescuing a shipwrecked earl wasn’t on the agenda. But the man’s desperate, so of course she’ll bring him to the British Settlement—for fifty pounds. And his signet ring for collateral. She’s even prepared to look past the fact he’s a peer, part of the system of oppression she despises.
As they begin their journey, sailing south through the Caribbean sea, Cameron finds himself falling for this guarded, stubborn businesswoman, and the heat smoldering between them threatens to burst into flame. Keeping her distance from the Earl of Banton will prove one of the greatest challenges Letty has ever faced. Especially when she notices, in the distracting warmth of his brown eyes, the one thing they have in common . . . How lost they both truly are.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
This book follows this time Cameron, the brother of the first book’s heroine. I was intrigued as I liked the gentle and kind soul portrayed in the previous story, a being who was not made to fight but to care for or about. He is a man who adapted to his circumstances and did what he could at best of his knowledge.
I do not post in general spoilers but there is no way out to explain my feelings about the heroine :
But while I understand Letty’s way of thinking and hopes, I do not see how, at this time period as firstly a woman even if determined, then of mixed heritage, could she expect being able to change alone the laws of a country that rejected and estranged her own father who was thought to have the right sex and skin color.
Then as her family business is threatened and harmed, she leaves with only a warning note to her business partner and friend!!!
The first one is while idealistic, completely unrealizable, and the second very unfeeling and cowardly. But it appears she tends to act this way, she runs away instead of confronting, for someone who wants to fight for others’ rights, it is being fainthearted.
I also did not like when she accepted Cameron’s offer, sure, her answer was rational, her way of rescuing herself when she was backed up against the wall. She was using him, but as a woman alone, she had few choices and even when he offered her more options, he was the better one.
Then when once more she asks him to renege on everything he has known, at that time, I had enough of her, she demands everything but gives nothing. What would have been their future if not about the convenient scheduled renew of the entailment, if Cameron had not been the one to be able to renew it, but one or two generation ms ahead, he would have had to seek his heir to demand him if he would agree to break it! What then of Cameron as he maybe would not have been able to make his « grand gesture ». For the era, Letty was asking too much of Cameron, a man alone when he already stood for his tenants when others were evicted by their landlords. She herself offers nothing outside her back each time she ran away and her lessons in socialism without really accepting the whole picture of the world around her. They could have come with the same solution or one fitting his circumstances depending on the state of the entail with talk and concerting. But not, she shoots, she throws his world at his face and she flees.
So while I loved Cameron, a man who alone does a lot for the people he grew with, then for the woman he fell for as he is willing to break the mold of his forefathers, Letty was too calculating and driven to be the lover Cameron needs. This story should have been a historical fiction, why the romance is awkward, Letty would make an outstanding heroine for the rights of the oppressed. She is too focused on her cause and uncompromising for me to be the right sweetheart for Cameron.
3 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen foreplays and lovemaking scenes
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CryrHo...
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?stor...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2023read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #louisemayberry #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
April 12, 2023
Two Worlds Collide to Build a Rich & Romantic Story
Having read and loved Roses in Red Wax, my expectations were extremely high for this next in the series; Swept Into the Storm did not disappoint! Louise Mayberry’s second installment in the Darnalay Castle Series is breathtaking in its scope and passion. Following Cameron, whom we met in the first book, the story takes us to the Bay of Honduras, and the Mexican Yucatan Peninsula where we meet the heroine, Letty, a fiercely independent and strong woman determined to make a difference in her fight for social justice. (Later, the story takes us to England and Scotland as well.) The novel manages to both engross the reader in the developing love between Cameron and Letty, while also showing us the challenges of their two worlds colliding. It is a beautiful, intelligent, and layered story, and I loved it!
Mayberry puts an original and unique spin on several romantic tropes and in the process creates an epic love story. The one that stands at the centre of the novel is the divide between social classes. Set in the 1820s, the story shows us the lives of the working class and indigenous people in the Americas and juxtaposes that against that of the nobility in Scotland. Letty is the daughter of a fugitive Scotsman father and a Mayan mother, while Cameron is the Earl of Banton. Instead of the usual complications seen in other romance novels, Swept Into the Storm focuses not on the difficulties of breaching societal expectations of class, but on the difficulties the class difference creates for the couple’s relationship when one person is both aware and deeply concerned about the consequences of British colonialism and the perils of slavery, and the other is a part of the very system that enables both to exist. How can the characters find common ground when each is embedded in entirely different social systems? Added to that complication are each character’s own insecurities some of which are rooted in their backgrounds. It is so interesting to watch them each find their own confidence and direction as the story unfolds. Mayberry weaves a compelling love story out of these threads and takes us on a journey enhanced with rich historical details and themes (the historical notes at the end are fascinating and worth reading). The realistic rendering of the love story itself is deeply moving. The passion between Letty and Cameron is both palpable and steamy.
I particularly liked the originality of the romantic elements of the story. Some examples include Cam and Letty’s locations for sex (a few that stand out: a hammock, a water reserve, a boat); and instead of using the clichéd “she/he closed the distance between them in x amount of short strides” (I can’t count the number of times I’ve read that tired phrase), Mayberry writes more originally: “Then she charged toward him, pulling in the slack until there was no space left and she was pressed against him, pushing him into the stone wall. His hands threaded through her hair, drawing her face to his.” I also really enjoyed all the sailing and sea imagery. One particularly beautiful example: “She needed to be somewhere loud, somewhere unsettled, where the elements would crash around her, wash over her, forceful and raw – the beach on a stormy day, or sailing up the coast in a strong wind with all her attention pulled to the sails, everything focused on keeping her boat moving in the right direction. But there was no wind in her sails now. Not here. She was becalmed.” Swept Into the Storm is beautifully written and a pleasure to read.
I enjoyed the slow burn of Cameron and Letty’s relationship and the obstacles they both had to overcome to form a true and equal relationship. The nuances of each character and the realistic changes they both undergo made the story more realistic and enjoyable. As both characters are virgins, their sexual awakening and mutual exploration added another unique aspect to the novel. That Louise Mayberry can balance such heavy social justice themes with a beautiful love story is deeply admirable and puts her firmly on my favourite author list.
Swept Into the Storm is the second novel in the Darnalay Castle series and is set a few years after Roses in Red Wax. Although I highly recommend reading the first novel before the second, it’s not absolutely necessary (but the first book is a beautiful gem and well worth a read!).
Five solid stars for this wonderful novel!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Having read and loved Roses in Red Wax, my expectations were extremely high for this next in the series; Swept Into the Storm did not disappoint! Louise Mayberry’s second installment in the Darnalay Castle Series is breathtaking in its scope and passion. Following Cameron, whom we met in the first book, the story takes us to the Bay of Honduras, and the Mexican Yucatan Peninsula where we meet the heroine, Letty, a fiercely independent and strong woman determined to make a difference in her fight for social justice. (Later, the story takes us to England and Scotland as well.) The novel manages to both engross the reader in the developing love between Cameron and Letty, while also showing us the challenges of their two worlds colliding. It is a beautiful, intelligent, and layered story, and I loved it!
Mayberry puts an original and unique spin on several romantic tropes and in the process creates an epic love story. The one that stands at the centre of the novel is the divide between social classes. Set in the 1820s, the story shows us the lives of the working class and indigenous people in the Americas and juxtaposes that against that of the nobility in Scotland. Letty is the daughter of a fugitive Scotsman father and a Mayan mother, while Cameron is the Earl of Banton. Instead of the usual complications seen in other romance novels, Swept Into the Storm focuses not on the difficulties of breaching societal expectations of class, but on the difficulties the class difference creates for the couple’s relationship when one person is both aware and deeply concerned about the consequences of British colonialism and the perils of slavery, and the other is a part of the very system that enables both to exist. How can the characters find common ground when each is embedded in entirely different social systems? Added to that complication are each character’s own insecurities some of which are rooted in their backgrounds. It is so interesting to watch them each find their own confidence and direction as the story unfolds. Mayberry weaves a compelling love story out of these threads and takes us on a journey enhanced with rich historical details and themes (the historical notes at the end are fascinating and worth reading). The realistic rendering of the love story itself is deeply moving. The passion between Letty and Cameron is both palpable and steamy.
I particularly liked the originality of the romantic elements of the story. Some examples include Cam and Letty’s locations for sex (a few that stand out: a hammock, a water reserve, a boat); and instead of using the clichéd “she/he closed the distance between them in x amount of short strides” (I can’t count the number of times I’ve read that tired phrase), Mayberry writes more originally: “Then she charged toward him, pulling in the slack until there was no space left and she was pressed against him, pushing him into the stone wall. His hands threaded through her hair, drawing her face to his.” I also really enjoyed all the sailing and sea imagery. One particularly beautiful example: “She needed to be somewhere loud, somewhere unsettled, where the elements would crash around her, wash over her, forceful and raw – the beach on a stormy day, or sailing up the coast in a strong wind with all her attention pulled to the sails, everything focused on keeping her boat moving in the right direction. But there was no wind in her sails now. Not here. She was becalmed.” Swept Into the Storm is beautifully written and a pleasure to read.
I enjoyed the slow burn of Cameron and Letty’s relationship and the obstacles they both had to overcome to form a true and equal relationship. The nuances of each character and the realistic changes they both undergo made the story more realistic and enjoyable. As both characters are virgins, their sexual awakening and mutual exploration added another unique aspect to the novel. That Louise Mayberry can balance such heavy social justice themes with a beautiful love story is deeply admirable and puts her firmly on my favourite author list.
Swept Into the Storm is the second novel in the Darnalay Castle series and is set a few years after Roses in Red Wax. Although I highly recommend reading the first novel before the second, it’s not absolutely necessary (but the first book is a beautiful gem and well worth a read!).
Five solid stars for this wonderful novel!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 4, 2023
Okay, I really loved Roses in Red Wax (the first Darnalay book). But I REALLY LOVED Swept into the Storm. So much so that I might have to go back and rate Roses lower, so I can make space for how much I loved this book.
If you like:
- Gender role reversal
- Grumpy/sunshine
- Light D/s kink
- Reciprocal nursing back to health
- Angst
- Enthusiastic consent
- Significant steam (5 scenes, my friends)
- Radical joy
...you should read Swept into the Storm.
First, the characters. Because romance is ALL about the characters. Cameron is the loveable, charismatic doctoral student turned unlikely Scottish earl from the first book and now he's gone on an expedition to Mexico to find himself after some pretty confusing identity turns. He is our sunshine character, but he's also sort of the exemplar of every loveable, well-meaning privileged progressive white man. He means so well. But he's not confronted his privilege. Yet.
Letty is the Mestizo daughter of an exiled Scottish radical and a no-nonsense Mayan woman who runs a smuggling operation in the Bay of Honduras. (I will gush later about the historical grounding but uuuggnnnnnhhhh it's so good.) She is our grump, but I hesitate to describe her as that trope, because she's not grumpy. She's pissed. And she has every right to be pissed. She is an abolitionist and completely committed to making the biggest impact possible towards British emancipation. She is willing to sacrifice A LOT to make even the smallest dent. It's everything to her.
"Happiness wasn't the point, was it? Her own happiness was a luxury she could not afford when so many others lived in constant pain."
She's basically the archetypal romance hero. So she's very serious and she broods a lot (but like, about real traumatic, deep injustice things, not about locking her crazy wife in an attic).
And this is where I fell in love. I LOVE a gender role subversion. I love it. I'm the difficult, short-tempered, lusty woman in IRL, so when I see her on the page, I just -- I'm aglow. And Letty is radically feminist, not just for her historical setting, but apparently for the modern-day historical romance genre. (Hey, to each their own ... but I'm just saying, you know, that if you find a headstrong woman of color who's not willing to settle unlikeable, then... maybe we need to unpack that.)
"I will not be defined by your need to care for something lesser than yourself."
Then, there's the Yucatan setting. The beach. The ocean. The flowers and jungle and vegetation. The smells. I just. I was transported. I mean, after the pandemic, I'm pretty desperate for a vacation, and this book did not help. I knew the book would take us back to Darnalay Castle in Scotland but I loved the Yucatan so much, I kind of hoped we'd stay there. Forever.
This book does not shy away from the unvarnished historical record. It is doing it's level best to be as historically grounded as possible, which I love because inaccurate underwear really pulls me out of a book, but in this case, I was constantly just in awe of the careful attention the author pays to unpacking slavery, white supremacy, misogyny, racism, classism -- just all that nasty shit that most historical romances gloss over in favor of a more palatable fantasy. Cameron has to face his complicity. And Letty does not let him get away with anything. It's almost painfully uncomfortable, but like rightly so.
"It was everywhere. In his own life. His own home. The same chain of logic lurking in his own damn mind. Domination disguised as duty."
This book is not #ownstories, but I really respect and appreciate how the author doesn't shy away from historical realities. (And doesn't pretend that people of color didn't exist because she's a white author and those "aren't her stories to tell" -- like, yeah, they're not, but the alternative shouldn't be ERASURE. Come on.) She really pushes at the dismantling of white supremacy for Cameron and manages to navigate a satisfying HEA while not compromising Letty's commitment to her values. I found the story extremely satisfying, refreshing, and swoony.
If you like:
- Gender role reversal
- Grumpy/sunshine
- Light D/s kink
- Reciprocal nursing back to health
- Angst
- Enthusiastic consent
- Significant steam (5 scenes, my friends)
- Radical joy
...you should read Swept into the Storm.
First, the characters. Because romance is ALL about the characters. Cameron is the loveable, charismatic doctoral student turned unlikely Scottish earl from the first book and now he's gone on an expedition to Mexico to find himself after some pretty confusing identity turns. He is our sunshine character, but he's also sort of the exemplar of every loveable, well-meaning privileged progressive white man. He means so well. But he's not confronted his privilege. Yet.
Letty is the Mestizo daughter of an exiled Scottish radical and a no-nonsense Mayan woman who runs a smuggling operation in the Bay of Honduras. (I will gush later about the historical grounding but uuuggnnnnnhhhh it's so good.) She is our grump, but I hesitate to describe her as that trope, because she's not grumpy. She's pissed. And she has every right to be pissed. She is an abolitionist and completely committed to making the biggest impact possible towards British emancipation. She is willing to sacrifice A LOT to make even the smallest dent. It's everything to her.
"Happiness wasn't the point, was it? Her own happiness was a luxury she could not afford when so many others lived in constant pain."
She's basically the archetypal romance hero. So she's very serious and she broods a lot (but like, about real traumatic, deep injustice things, not about locking her crazy wife in an attic).
And this is where I fell in love. I LOVE a gender role subversion. I love it. I'm the difficult, short-tempered, lusty woman in IRL, so when I see her on the page, I just -- I'm aglow. And Letty is radically feminist, not just for her historical setting, but apparently for the modern-day historical romance genre. (Hey, to each their own ... but I'm just saying, you know, that if you find a headstrong woman of color who's not willing to settle unlikeable, then... maybe we need to unpack that.)
"I will not be defined by your need to care for something lesser than yourself."
Then, there's the Yucatan setting. The beach. The ocean. The flowers and jungle and vegetation. The smells. I just. I was transported. I mean, after the pandemic, I'm pretty desperate for a vacation, and this book did not help. I knew the book would take us back to Darnalay Castle in Scotland but I loved the Yucatan so much, I kind of hoped we'd stay there. Forever.
This book does not shy away from the unvarnished historical record. It is doing it's level best to be as historically grounded as possible, which I love because inaccurate underwear really pulls me out of a book, but in this case, I was constantly just in awe of the careful attention the author pays to unpacking slavery, white supremacy, misogyny, racism, classism -- just all that nasty shit that most historical romances gloss over in favor of a more palatable fantasy. Cameron has to face his complicity. And Letty does not let him get away with anything. It's almost painfully uncomfortable, but like rightly so.
"It was everywhere. In his own life. His own home. The same chain of logic lurking in his own damn mind. Domination disguised as duty."
This book is not #ownstories, but I really respect and appreciate how the author doesn't shy away from historical realities. (And doesn't pretend that people of color didn't exist because she's a white author and those "aren't her stories to tell" -- like, yeah, they're not, but the alternative shouldn't be ERASURE. Come on.) She really pushes at the dismantling of white supremacy for Cameron and manages to navigate a satisfying HEA while not compromising Letty's commitment to her values. I found the story extremely satisfying, refreshing, and swoony.
May 5, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5
This is unlike any historical romance that I have ever read, so much so I would say it edges on historical fiction. The romance is definitely there throughout the book, but until the end, the romance is written almost like a subplot.
The fmc, Letty, is a Mayan woman running her late father's business as well as smuggling goods and former slaves into Mexico. Letty's ultimate goal throughout the book is immediate abolition. Her father and mother worked for it, and now she has made it her life goal, and no one, not even a handsome Scottish earl with golden retriever energy, is going to get in her way.
**I have lots and lots of thoughts about this book, so please stick with me while I word vomit. Just a disclaimer, but I feel that as a white woman, I will never understand and/or be able to discuss the impact and accuracy of the racial oppression written in this story. My opinions are restricted due to my privilege, so I can't say if Mayberry wrote poc characters and feelings of said characters towards racism as they should be, but I know intent to do so was there. **
As in the book description provided by the author, the main plot revolves around racism, slavery, and unlearning bias. These are topics that are not typically written in books of this genre. Letty is an Indigenous woman who had a white father, and her friends/family are Indigenous and POC. Cameron, the mmc, is a privileged, white, Scottish earl (landlord) who begins the book with limited knowledge and exposure to POC as well as his own internalized racism.
When Cameron and Letty first interacted with one another, Letty somewhat had the upper hand - she knows the land, people, language, etc. When they are on more equal footing, they fall in love with one another. When the pair end up in England, however, roles are reversed, and Cameron, the white man, takes charge, creating a very tense power dynamic. So tense. I was unsure if there could even be an HEA. Cameron, while he was in love with Letty, didn't understand her drive for immediate abolition, and I felt like he didn't understand /her/ until the very end. Cameron goes through unlearning his own racial bias, realizing his father wasn't the best man, and coming to terms with the fact that he is a glorified landlord. He is the party that oppresses people, which is difficult for him to realize. Letty doesn't let go of her ultimate goal, even after breaking their romantic relationship, she chooses her fight for abolition above all else- which I thought was valid, she shouldn't have to change herself just because an ignorant white man couldn't get over himself.
Like I mentioned before, I was highly unsure if there was going to be an HEA, especially with the power dynamics set up in this book. Mayberry stressed the importance of white people not viewing black/Indigenous/POC as people who needed to be helped out of pity. She wrote about the importance of full independence and for white people to not play a "parental role" and expect to be thanked for "allowing" POC to be treated with basic human dignity. There was a lot being said about the rhetoric surrounding abolition in London at that time, which I believe is relevant to this day.
I would also like to bring up the trope that is sadly, commonly found in romance of that of the noble/rich white person and the brown servant. I was very worried that this storyline was going to veer down that path, especially when the setting left the Yucatan. There was opportunity for it to arise, where Letty would just go into the marriage to Cameron, relying off of the work of others to sustain them and ultimately loses herself in his need to "protect" her. Thus fulfilling the role of her performing a service for him in the Yucatan, him being like I can offer you so much more than this, and then her going off to live her life in Scotland, ultimately leaving her goals/family behind. Thankfully, it didn't happen. Mayberry wrote Letty as a woman who doesn't give up from her goal, her passions, just for a man. She told Cameron off THANK GOD.
This is unlike any historical romance that I have ever read, so much so I would say it edges on historical fiction. The romance is definitely there throughout the book, but until the end, the romance is written almost like a subplot.
The fmc, Letty, is a Mayan woman running her late father's business as well as smuggling goods and former slaves into Mexico. Letty's ultimate goal throughout the book is immediate abolition. Her father and mother worked for it, and now she has made it her life goal, and no one, not even a handsome Scottish earl with golden retriever energy, is going to get in her way.
**I have lots and lots of thoughts about this book, so please stick with me while I word vomit. Just a disclaimer, but I feel that as a white woman, I will never understand and/or be able to discuss the impact and accuracy of the racial oppression written in this story. My opinions are restricted due to my privilege, so I can't say if Mayberry wrote poc characters and feelings of said characters towards racism as they should be, but I know intent to do so was there. **
As in the book description provided by the author, the main plot revolves around racism, slavery, and unlearning bias. These are topics that are not typically written in books of this genre. Letty is an Indigenous woman who had a white father, and her friends/family are Indigenous and POC. Cameron, the mmc, is a privileged, white, Scottish earl (landlord) who begins the book with limited knowledge and exposure to POC as well as his own internalized racism.
When Cameron and Letty first interacted with one another, Letty somewhat had the upper hand - she knows the land, people, language, etc. When they are on more equal footing, they fall in love with one another. When the pair end up in England, however, roles are reversed, and Cameron, the white man, takes charge, creating a very tense power dynamic. So tense. I was unsure if there could even be an HEA. Cameron, while he was in love with Letty, didn't understand her drive for immediate abolition, and I felt like he didn't understand /her/ until the very end. Cameron goes through unlearning his own racial bias, realizing his father wasn't the best man, and coming to terms with the fact that he is a glorified landlord. He is the party that oppresses people, which is difficult for him to realize. Letty doesn't let go of her ultimate goal, even after breaking their romantic relationship, she chooses her fight for abolition above all else- which I thought was valid, she shouldn't have to change herself just because an ignorant white man couldn't get over himself.
Like I mentioned before, I was highly unsure if there was going to be an HEA, especially with the power dynamics set up in this book. Mayberry stressed the importance of white people not viewing black/Indigenous/POC as people who needed to be helped out of pity. She wrote about the importance of full independence and for white people to not play a "parental role" and expect to be thanked for "allowing" POC to be treated with basic human dignity. There was a lot being said about the rhetoric surrounding abolition in London at that time, which I believe is relevant to this day.
I would also like to bring up the trope that is sadly, commonly found in romance of that of the noble/rich white person and the brown servant. I was very worried that this storyline was going to veer down that path, especially when the setting left the Yucatan. There was opportunity for it to arise, where Letty would just go into the marriage to Cameron, relying off of the work of others to sustain them and ultimately loses herself in his need to "protect" her. Thus fulfilling the role of her performing a service for him in the Yucatan, him being like I can offer you so much more than this, and then her going off to live her life in Scotland, ultimately leaving her goals/family behind. Thankfully, it didn't happen. Mayberry wrote Letty as a woman who doesn't give up from her goal, her passions, just for a man. She told Cameron off THANK GOD.
April 16, 2023
Book two in the Darnalay Castle series, Swept into the Storm tells an entirely new and individual story. Cameron, the brother to the protagonist of book one, is one of the protagonists in this story. From the beginning of the book, the standout quality is the authors flawless implementation of multiple points of view—there are three; third person narrative, first person, Cameron, and first person, Letty, Cameron's love interest. The reader is not required to spend any effort maintaining perspective awareness. Cameron is clearly Cameron, Letty is clearly Letty, and the narrator is clearly neither.
The story is imaginative and well researched. After reading book one, a reader might expect the author to stay within period and location to capitalize on her knowledge of both. While the setting of Darnalay Castle and the historical period of early 1800's is common to both stories, half of this second book is set in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, about as distant and different as a setting could be—that requires literary guts, and work.
As a romance novel, there is plenty of blushable steam for those who like to blush, but not graphic enough to burn the somwhat tender eyes of the novice romancer. Still parental guidance is wise before turning it loose to the young reader. Having said that, the story is strong enough, that this reader would not hesitate to perform a bit of redaction and allow the younger reader to dive right in.
As in the first story, character and scene development are wonderful. The story is, at times, exhilerating and fast paced. The adventurous aspect of Letty's character is fun to watch. The minor characters are interesting to the point that the reader is challenged to figure out who the protagonists may be in the next story.
Now this leads me to the main criticism of the story. Without throwing in a spoiler, there is an aspect of the story that is both important to the plot, and difficult to watch unfold. Letty is attacked—not on her person, but on her business and family property, and because of this attack, she decides to leave and fight a bigger battle in Europe, Cameron's milieu. She leaves her family and business partners to deal with the beast that attacked her. Now, and I will speak personally here. As a guy from a family of strong family loyalists, my brother would have sailed, or even swam, to Europe to kick my literal butt, had I left him to that mess with nothing more than a note of explanation. Just sayin'.
Also, while speaking from the perspective of a guy, it is so captivating to watch how Cameron deals with his loss. Three quarters through the book, the possibility of Cameron's complete devolution into wuss-hood loomed large in this readers worries. I had to finish the story, if only to confirm or deny this concern. I'll leave it to future readers to decide for themselves. I'll simply comment that I approve.
Swept into the Storm is a great read. In addition to all of the positive aspects of the story, in and of itself, the larger commentary on social class and race are deftly and artfully addressed as integral parts of the environment. I highly recommend this book and look forward to the next installment. (I hope Samuel Duncan gets his just deserts).
The story is imaginative and well researched. After reading book one, a reader might expect the author to stay within period and location to capitalize on her knowledge of both. While the setting of Darnalay Castle and the historical period of early 1800's is common to both stories, half of this second book is set in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, about as distant and different as a setting could be—that requires literary guts, and work.
As a romance novel, there is plenty of blushable steam for those who like to blush, but not graphic enough to burn the somwhat tender eyes of the novice romancer. Still parental guidance is wise before turning it loose to the young reader. Having said that, the story is strong enough, that this reader would not hesitate to perform a bit of redaction and allow the younger reader to dive right in.
As in the first story, character and scene development are wonderful. The story is, at times, exhilerating and fast paced. The adventurous aspect of Letty's character is fun to watch. The minor characters are interesting to the point that the reader is challenged to figure out who the protagonists may be in the next story.
Now this leads me to the main criticism of the story. Without throwing in a spoiler, there is an aspect of the story that is both important to the plot, and difficult to watch unfold. Letty is attacked—not on her person, but on her business and family property, and because of this attack, she decides to leave and fight a bigger battle in Europe, Cameron's milieu. She leaves her family and business partners to deal with the beast that attacked her. Now, and I will speak personally here. As a guy from a family of strong family loyalists, my brother would have sailed, or even swam, to Europe to kick my literal butt, had I left him to that mess with nothing more than a note of explanation. Just sayin'.
Also, while speaking from the perspective of a guy, it is so captivating to watch how Cameron deals with his loss. Three quarters through the book, the possibility of Cameron's complete devolution into wuss-hood loomed large in this readers worries. I had to finish the story, if only to confirm or deny this concern. I'll leave it to future readers to decide for themselves. I'll simply comment that I approve.
Swept into the Storm is a great read. In addition to all of the positive aspects of the story, in and of itself, the larger commentary on social class and race are deftly and artfully addressed as integral parts of the environment. I highly recommend this book and look forward to the next installment. (I hope Samuel Duncan gets his just deserts).
May 19, 2023
Louise Mayberry does it again. Swept into the Storm is the perfect blend of history, social commentary, and, of course, romance.
We met Cameron Dunn, Earl of Banton, in Roses in Red Wax (remember Jane and her man, Pervy, I mean, Percy?). It's 1824 and Cam is exploring the Yucatan Peninsula because that's what entitled white dudes did in the 1820s. While at sea with some friends and a local guide, he falls overboard. When he wakes upon an abandoned beach, he is not so pleasantly greeted by Letty Monro, a Maya woman. From the beginning they feel a connection, sometimes it's a bit contentious and other times, it's fireworks. They are both drawn to each other but Letty refuses to act on it. She is determined to keep her deceased father's business afloat and escape to London to become an abolitionist. She doesn't have the time for a man. Cameron is dogged and refuses to give up because he feels the connection with her.
I adored Cam. He's such a cinnamon roll. He wants to help people; it's just who he is. But Letty...she doesn't want help--from anyone. Not Cam. Not her family. No one. Letty finds Cam's help patronizing and pitying, which maybe sometimes it is. Letty insists on making it on her own to and in London. She rubbed me the wrong way sometimes but I can always look beyond a main character that I don't gel with. She did have a tendency, when things just go slightly wrong, to make assumptions and jump ship (no pun intended). I'm rarely pleased with characters who are quick to dip with no "I'm out." However, fate intercedes repeatedly, bringing these two back together.
What I like the most about Mayberry's books is how she so naturally weaves history into the story. So much HR on the market is historical only because of the time in which it is set--a ball here, a carriage there. Sure, the fashion and the culture of the patriarchy, the rules of society are there but rarely does the story extend to the actual history and other social issues of the time. Just like today, we do not live in a bubble and move within the world impacted only by what clothes are in style, or what dance is popular. The world at large, the politics, the social injustice, etc. impact who we are, what we do, what else is going on. And Mayberry does not shy away from these topics in her books even when they are uncomfortable or ugly.
However she doesn't do it from a soapbox or demand the reader feel a particular way. Nor does she bombard you with it and weigh the story down to the point that it takes away from the characters, their relationship, and the romance. Instead, she presents the history as part of each character's story and allows the reader to use their own intelligence to form an opinion. It's just so ORGANIC that I find myself enjoying the history lessons (which is sad considering I was a history major in college). Lovers of the historical part of historical romance will enjoy her writing but lovers of the romance side will also thoroughly enjoy it too. It's rare to see both so well included and balanced. Usually you lose one in the other but not with Louise Mayberry. She's got the perfect recipe. 10/10 would recommend.
We met Cameron Dunn, Earl of Banton, in Roses in Red Wax (remember Jane and her man, Pervy, I mean, Percy?). It's 1824 and Cam is exploring the Yucatan Peninsula because that's what entitled white dudes did in the 1820s. While at sea with some friends and a local guide, he falls overboard. When he wakes upon an abandoned beach, he is not so pleasantly greeted by Letty Monro, a Maya woman. From the beginning they feel a connection, sometimes it's a bit contentious and other times, it's fireworks. They are both drawn to each other but Letty refuses to act on it. She is determined to keep her deceased father's business afloat and escape to London to become an abolitionist. She doesn't have the time for a man. Cameron is dogged and refuses to give up because he feels the connection with her.
I adored Cam. He's such a cinnamon roll. He wants to help people; it's just who he is. But Letty...she doesn't want help--from anyone. Not Cam. Not her family. No one. Letty finds Cam's help patronizing and pitying, which maybe sometimes it is. Letty insists on making it on her own to and in London. She rubbed me the wrong way sometimes but I can always look beyond a main character that I don't gel with. She did have a tendency, when things just go slightly wrong, to make assumptions and jump ship (no pun intended). I'm rarely pleased with characters who are quick to dip with no "I'm out." However, fate intercedes repeatedly, bringing these two back together.
What I like the most about Mayberry's books is how she so naturally weaves history into the story. So much HR on the market is historical only because of the time in which it is set--a ball here, a carriage there. Sure, the fashion and the culture of the patriarchy, the rules of society are there but rarely does the story extend to the actual history and other social issues of the time. Just like today, we do not live in a bubble and move within the world impacted only by what clothes are in style, or what dance is popular. The world at large, the politics, the social injustice, etc. impact who we are, what we do, what else is going on. And Mayberry does not shy away from these topics in her books even when they are uncomfortable or ugly.
However she doesn't do it from a soapbox or demand the reader feel a particular way. Nor does she bombard you with it and weigh the story down to the point that it takes away from the characters, their relationship, and the romance. Instead, she presents the history as part of each character's story and allows the reader to use their own intelligence to form an opinion. It's just so ORGANIC that I find myself enjoying the history lessons (which is sad considering I was a history major in college). Lovers of the historical part of historical romance will enjoy her writing but lovers of the romance side will also thoroughly enjoy it too. It's rare to see both so well included and balanced. Usually you lose one in the other but not with Louise Mayberry. She's got the perfect recipe. 10/10 would recommend.
May 29, 2023
🌸 TikTok || Instagram 🌸
Story 📖📖📖📖.5
Depth 💔💔💔💔
Steam 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Comm. 🗣️🗣️🗣️🗣️
Growth 💗💗💗.5
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you follow me on Tiktok you've already seen me gush about this book. It was so good I needed to take a reading break for a couple of days so I could put the pieces of my heart back together.
Her sophomore publication opens with Cameron, whom we met in the first book, discovering he's been stranded somewhere off the coast of the Yucatan. Very quickly, he meets Letty, a smuggler with her very own ship. She's admittedly distrustful of him due to her experiences with colonizers in her country. Cameron has to work to earn her trust. Nevertheless, there is an instant attraction, something that simmers below the surface and bursts out when the two admit their lustful feelings very early on. We discover that they're both virgins so it's really so surprise that they're so handsy with each other.
Letty is a character that I think readers will either love or deeply dislike because she's a very guarded person, so much so that it makes her a bit cowardly. But (personally) it's easy to recognize why she builds her walls so high. Being a mixed Latina myself, there are certain experiences that tend to rob you of a little bit of your innocence and the only way to protect yourself is to rely on yourself. There were a number of times I kept shaking my head because of Letty's choice, but I always understood her need to take that choice and retain her independence.
Cameron isn't without his faults. As we learned in the previous novel he was training to be a doctor before he inherited his father's title. He carries with him an inherent desire to help people, to save them, and that isn't lost on Letty. He has to do a lot of internal work to figure out how he can help without adopting a savior mentality. In my opinion, he never would have been able to do that if Letty wasn't as difficult as she was. They're story needed to be difficult for them to find their HEA.
There is a lot of angst, which is why I had to take a break after reading it. I read this back to back with Roses in Red Wax which is heavy in and of itself, so my feelings were hurt more than once, lol.
This was such a phenomenal story about two people who aren't broken but who are also not whole, and who need to let themselves be hurt a little in order to realize who them are individually and together.
_____
Thank you to Louise Mayberry for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Story 📖📖📖📖.5
Depth 💔💔💔💔
Steam 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Comm. 🗣️🗣️🗣️🗣️
Growth 💗💗💗.5
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you follow me on Tiktok you've already seen me gush about this book. It was so good I needed to take a reading break for a couple of days so I could put the pieces of my heart back together.
Her sophomore publication opens with Cameron, whom we met in the first book, discovering he's been stranded somewhere off the coast of the Yucatan. Very quickly, he meets Letty, a smuggler with her very own ship. She's admittedly distrustful of him due to her experiences with colonizers in her country. Cameron has to work to earn her trust. Nevertheless, there is an instant attraction, something that simmers below the surface and bursts out when the two admit their lustful feelings very early on. We discover that they're both virgins so it's really so surprise that they're so handsy with each other.
Letty is a character that I think readers will either love or deeply dislike because she's a very guarded person, so much so that it makes her a bit cowardly. But (personally) it's easy to recognize why she builds her walls so high. Being a mixed Latina myself, there are certain experiences that tend to rob you of a little bit of your innocence and the only way to protect yourself is to rely on yourself. There were a number of times I kept shaking my head because of Letty's choice, but I always understood her need to take that choice and retain her independence.
Cameron isn't without his faults. As we learned in the previous novel he was training to be a doctor before he inherited his father's title. He carries with him an inherent desire to help people, to save them, and that isn't lost on Letty. He has to do a lot of internal work to figure out how he can help without adopting a savior mentality. In my opinion, he never would have been able to do that if Letty wasn't as difficult as she was. They're story needed to be difficult for them to find their HEA.
There is a lot of angst, which is why I had to take a break after reading it. I read this back to back with Roses in Red Wax which is heavy in and of itself, so my feelings were hurt more than once, lol.
This was such a phenomenal story about two people who aren't broken but who are also not whole, and who need to let themselves be hurt a little in order to realize who them are individually and together.
_____
Thank you to Louise Mayberry for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
April 29, 2023
*****5 stars!
“Life’s never as simple as folks make it out to be.”
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so very much to Louise Mayberry for this opportunity!
I was so looking forward to reading this book and just like Roses in Red Wax it hooked me from the very start! This was such a beautifully written story with such a perfect mixture of history and romance, I was pulled into this story from the very first chapter and was left wanting more! The detail in this story was so well done, I felt instantly transported into the places this book was based in. The descriptions were so vibrant and elegant, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the writing of this book just as I did the first.
I really enjoyed Cameron and Letty as our main characters of this story; both of them were so different from each other and yet seemed to fit one another very well! I enjoyed the chemistry and tension between them both, you could feel it slowly building from the moment they first met each other. I also enjoyed the conflict between them both, I thought it was very interesting and left me on the edge of my seat waiting to see how it would all resolve.
Letty was a very interesting character, I enjoyed how Cameron had trouble reading her. She was a strong and vibrant character that kept you guessing. I loved how she stood up for what she thought was right and refused to back down, I thought that was a very lovely quality for her character to have.
Cameron was very sweet! I loved getting to know him more in this story, he was a character one could easily fall in love with. I enjoyed how positive and charming he was and not to mention how noble and protective he was, I thought that was a very adorable and sweet quality for him to have. He seemed to be the complete opposite of Letty, which only made them work better together as a couple!
This sequel was everything I hoped it would be! This is a book I would highly recommend not only if you enjoyed the first book, but if you’re looking for a passionate and vivid story that will transport you and pull you into its pages then you will love this book! I can’t wait to read what comes next!
“Life’s never as simple as folks make it out to be.”
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so very much to Louise Mayberry for this opportunity!
I was so looking forward to reading this book and just like Roses in Red Wax it hooked me from the very start! This was such a beautifully written story with such a perfect mixture of history and romance, I was pulled into this story from the very first chapter and was left wanting more! The detail in this story was so well done, I felt instantly transported into the places this book was based in. The descriptions were so vibrant and elegant, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the writing of this book just as I did the first.
I really enjoyed Cameron and Letty as our main characters of this story; both of them were so different from each other and yet seemed to fit one another very well! I enjoyed the chemistry and tension between them both, you could feel it slowly building from the moment they first met each other. I also enjoyed the conflict between them both, I thought it was very interesting and left me on the edge of my seat waiting to see how it would all resolve.
Letty was a very interesting character, I enjoyed how Cameron had trouble reading her. She was a strong and vibrant character that kept you guessing. I loved how she stood up for what she thought was right and refused to back down, I thought that was a very lovely quality for her character to have.
Cameron was very sweet! I loved getting to know him more in this story, he was a character one could easily fall in love with. I enjoyed how positive and charming he was and not to mention how noble and protective he was, I thought that was a very adorable and sweet quality for him to have. He seemed to be the complete opposite of Letty, which only made them work better together as a couple!
This sequel was everything I hoped it would be! This is a book I would highly recommend not only if you enjoyed the first book, but if you’re looking for a passionate and vivid story that will transport you and pull you into its pages then you will love this book! I can’t wait to read what comes next!
May 5, 2023
Genre: historical romance
Yucatán, Mexico, 1824
Shipwrecked while exploring a textile mill as a business investment in Yucatan, Cameron Dunn, the Scottish Earl of Banton, sees a woman who he is certain must be a mermaid or an angel. In fact, she’s Letty Monro, a half Mayan and half English woman running a smuggling operation up and down the coast. Her smuggling business is a bit of a front, though, because her real passion is abolition, looking to free slaves still legally owned. She dreams of going to London where she can work full time towards her abolitionist cause, and perhaps Cameron is her way there.
First, thank you to Louise Mayberry for providing me with an eARC for review. When Louise reached out to see if I was interested, I was in fact traveling in Mexico, so this feels appropriately fitting. I am always excited to read any historical romance set outside of the British Isles. The author’s note at the beginning of the book addresses content warnings, as it does not shy away from the racially motivated violence and exploitation rampant in the early 19th century in Central America.
Letty is passionate and driven, the kind of heroine I love to read about. She’s made up her mind to change the world, and nothing - not even a bit of typhus - will stand in her way to make that change. Cameron is a sensitive hero, and as a bastard who inherited a title, he’s not naive about the way society shuns those who are different. They are a well matched pair, even when they think they cannot find a way to be together.
I love the historical setting and the amount of research that went into this book, and appreciate both the forward and the author’s endnote framing the story. Letty’s abolitionism isn’t born out of a contemporary desire for readers to feel good about reading an activist in a colonial setting, it’s rooted in 19th century politics and the writings of women at the time.
Thanks again to Louise Mayberry for an eARC for review. Swept into the Storm is available today!
Yucatán, Mexico, 1824
Shipwrecked while exploring a textile mill as a business investment in Yucatan, Cameron Dunn, the Scottish Earl of Banton, sees a woman who he is certain must be a mermaid or an angel. In fact, she’s Letty Monro, a half Mayan and half English woman running a smuggling operation up and down the coast. Her smuggling business is a bit of a front, though, because her real passion is abolition, looking to free slaves still legally owned. She dreams of going to London where she can work full time towards her abolitionist cause, and perhaps Cameron is her way there.
First, thank you to Louise Mayberry for providing me with an eARC for review. When Louise reached out to see if I was interested, I was in fact traveling in Mexico, so this feels appropriately fitting. I am always excited to read any historical romance set outside of the British Isles. The author’s note at the beginning of the book addresses content warnings, as it does not shy away from the racially motivated violence and exploitation rampant in the early 19th century in Central America.
Letty is passionate and driven, the kind of heroine I love to read about. She’s made up her mind to change the world, and nothing - not even a bit of typhus - will stand in her way to make that change. Cameron is a sensitive hero, and as a bastard who inherited a title, he’s not naive about the way society shuns those who are different. They are a well matched pair, even when they think they cannot find a way to be together.
I love the historical setting and the amount of research that went into this book, and appreciate both the forward and the author’s endnote framing the story. Letty’s abolitionism isn’t born out of a contemporary desire for readers to feel good about reading an activist in a colonial setting, it’s rooted in 19th century politics and the writings of women at the time.
Thanks again to Louise Mayberry for an eARC for review. Swept into the Storm is available today!
June 30, 2023
One hit wonder? I think not! There is absolutely NO doubt in my mind that Louise Mayberry is an incredibly talented writer. Swept into the Storm is simply…beautiful. Her prose is thought-provoking while evoking a sea of visually stunning imagery. The words she weaves together have the power to soothe your soul, set your passions ablaze, and even stir the depths of your righteous fury. Swept into the Storm will take you on a wild journey, riding the waves of pure, unadulterated emotion.
From the very beginning Cameron Dunn, eleventh Earl of Banton, steals your heart. If ever there was a cinnamon roll…sweet and delicious, Cameron is it. He’s kind, compassionate and absolutely adorable. After unexpectedly inheriting his father’s title (there’s a story there folks), Cameron struggles to adapt and sets out to find his “purpose”. Unfortunately for him, his travels leave him washed up on a deserted island…that is until a beautiful woman appears and offers to get him back to civilization…for a price.
Letitia (Letty) Monroe…wooo…how to describe her? Complex for sure. Strong. Standoffish. A crusader for social justice… COLD. She is definitely not the easiest woman to love. Unlike the man she’s rescued on a beach, Letty has a plan…go to London & join the crusade for immediate abolition. Taking the Earl of Banton to a British Settlement will provide her with additional funds to help ease her way. What she hadn’t planned on were the feelings he’s stirred in her.
Swept into the Storm is a slow-burn romance that unfolds gradually like a gentle breeze. Mayberry's skillful integration of historical elements combined with a diverse cast of characters adds a fascinating layer to the narrative. This story demonstrates the extraordinary power of love. It teaches us that no matter how impenetrable someone's heart may seem, a single soul can possess the ability to thaw even the coldest of defenses.
From the very beginning Cameron Dunn, eleventh Earl of Banton, steals your heart. If ever there was a cinnamon roll…sweet and delicious, Cameron is it. He’s kind, compassionate and absolutely adorable. After unexpectedly inheriting his father’s title (there’s a story there folks), Cameron struggles to adapt and sets out to find his “purpose”. Unfortunately for him, his travels leave him washed up on a deserted island…that is until a beautiful woman appears and offers to get him back to civilization…for a price.
Letitia (Letty) Monroe…wooo…how to describe her? Complex for sure. Strong. Standoffish. A crusader for social justice… COLD. She is definitely not the easiest woman to love. Unlike the man she’s rescued on a beach, Letty has a plan…go to London & join the crusade for immediate abolition. Taking the Earl of Banton to a British Settlement will provide her with additional funds to help ease her way. What she hadn’t planned on were the feelings he’s stirred in her.
Swept into the Storm is a slow-burn romance that unfolds gradually like a gentle breeze. Mayberry's skillful integration of historical elements combined with a diverse cast of characters adds a fascinating layer to the narrative. This story demonstrates the extraordinary power of love. It teaches us that no matter how impenetrable someone's heart may seem, a single soul can possess the ability to thaw even the coldest of defenses.
June 3, 2023
Sometimes, books come into your life exactly when you need them.
For me, Swept into the Storm by Louise Mayberry was one such book. First, I’d been craving historical romance set outside Regency era London. Second, I’d been seeking depth in research, plotting, and character relationships. Not just romantic relationships, but familial and friendship ones as well.
Swept into the Storm takes place on the Yucatán Peninsula of the early 19th century. Mayberry’s impeccable, dare I say clinical, research is apparent in her fine-grained descriptions of the setting’s social as well as geographical topography. Mayberry gives an impressive presentation of the food, clothing, architecture, manners, and styles of interactions between the native and colonial populations of the New World. Prose devoted to the land and sea is a pleasure to consume and leaves a fresh, colorful aspect on the palate.
Thematically, Swept is far more ambitious than much historical romance. Delved into are the blatant evils of slavery, multicultural identity (although I’m not sure that’s an appropriate term for this era), class differences the world over, and the outright and unconscious disregard of those who are discursively subaltern, lower, or other.
Much of the book reads like historical fiction, but I’ve never read historical fiction that explores as deeply the intimacy, not only the sexual intimacy but the communicative/emotional intimacy, between the main characters.
I’m charmed by the relative virginity of the main characters. I’m charmed by how they become a raging storm for one another. It’s an incredibly charming romance, which I think vibes well against the formidable research.
I highly recommend.
For me, Swept into the Storm by Louise Mayberry was one such book. First, I’d been craving historical romance set outside Regency era London. Second, I’d been seeking depth in research, plotting, and character relationships. Not just romantic relationships, but familial and friendship ones as well.
Swept into the Storm takes place on the Yucatán Peninsula of the early 19th century. Mayberry’s impeccable, dare I say clinical, research is apparent in her fine-grained descriptions of the setting’s social as well as geographical topography. Mayberry gives an impressive presentation of the food, clothing, architecture, manners, and styles of interactions between the native and colonial populations of the New World. Prose devoted to the land and sea is a pleasure to consume and leaves a fresh, colorful aspect on the palate.
Thematically, Swept is far more ambitious than much historical romance. Delved into are the blatant evils of slavery, multicultural identity (although I’m not sure that’s an appropriate term for this era), class differences the world over, and the outright and unconscious disregard of those who are discursively subaltern, lower, or other.
Much of the book reads like historical fiction, but I’ve never read historical fiction that explores as deeply the intimacy, not only the sexual intimacy but the communicative/emotional intimacy, between the main characters.
I’m charmed by the relative virginity of the main characters. I’m charmed by how they become a raging storm for one another. It’s an incredibly charming romance, which I think vibes well against the formidable research.
I highly recommend.
April 20, 2023
"There's a difference between helping out of compassion, and out of pity."
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This story takes you on an incredible journey and oozes originality. The setting itself in the beginning of the story in the Yucatan is already a pretty unique choice for a historical novel, and I loved it! You can tell it was extremely well researched and very informative. I loved the added detail of the map in the beginning to help the reader pin point exact locations. I personally found that to be very helpful.
I really enjoyed the main characters and their dynamic together. Cameron had his own insecurities but covered them with charm and a friendly demeanor. He was open and receptive to ideas outside of his own views, which was refreshing. Letty was tough, independent, and driven. She not only took care of the family business after the death of her father but also wanted to enact change for the wrongs she personally witnessed, especially regarding slavery. She was inspiring but, at times, frustrating! There was also a cast of secondary characters that added to the fun of the story.
There really wasn't anything I didn't like about the story, just frustration with Letty towards the end for putting Cameron through a lot. I felt like he was always the one chasing her, and I wanted her to chase him a bit! While I agreed with her ideas, I wished her delivery was a little better for Cameron's sake. That's just my personal taste, though, because I loved Cameron and felt protective over him. It was beautifully written with a lot of attention to detail. I didn't want to put it down!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This story takes you on an incredible journey and oozes originality. The setting itself in the beginning of the story in the Yucatan is already a pretty unique choice for a historical novel, and I loved it! You can tell it was extremely well researched and very informative. I loved the added detail of the map in the beginning to help the reader pin point exact locations. I personally found that to be very helpful.
I really enjoyed the main characters and their dynamic together. Cameron had his own insecurities but covered them with charm and a friendly demeanor. He was open and receptive to ideas outside of his own views, which was refreshing. Letty was tough, independent, and driven. She not only took care of the family business after the death of her father but also wanted to enact change for the wrongs she personally witnessed, especially regarding slavery. She was inspiring but, at times, frustrating! There was also a cast of secondary characters that added to the fun of the story.
There really wasn't anything I didn't like about the story, just frustration with Letty towards the end for putting Cameron through a lot. I felt like he was always the one chasing her, and I wanted her to chase him a bit! While I agreed with her ideas, I wished her delivery was a little better for Cameron's sake. That's just my personal taste, though, because I loved Cameron and felt protective over him. It was beautifully written with a lot of attention to detail. I didn't want to put it down!
April 26, 2023
Cameron is an Earl in Scotland and is exploring the Yucatan when his canoe is stuck in a storm and he ends up shipwrecked. Letty a Mayan woman whose father happens to be a notorious Scottish man, finds him on the beach. She offers to take him back to Valladolid with the promise of money.
During the trip to the Caye (Letty's home), Cameron gets Malaria. Letty's family nurses him back to health. During this time, Cameron and Letty realize more and more they have feelings for each other.
Letty is determined to save enough money to go to London and work with others to end slavery in its entirety.
On the trip to Valladolid, things come to a head. There are some 🌶️ times they may involve a hammock and they're 🔥.
Through it all Cameron wants to win her love while Letty grapples with their differences.
They come from different worlds and see the world through different lenses. Letty is a staunch abolitionist while Cameron is against slavery, but by birthright, lives in a feudal system.
Can Letty come to terms with these differences? Can Cameron evolve past his unconscious biases and win Letty's hand?
This book will make you realize the own blindness you have in life. I never considered the Feudal system as Letty does, but it stunned me. Reading about all the pain and suffering many endured for sugar and mahogany broke my heart. This story breaks you open and makes you think about your place in the world. Louise has a wonderful way of weaving an intricate romance while shining a light on social causes—it's such a special gift.
Tropes/Triggers, etc: Death of a parent (in retrospect), people held in bondage, racism, white privilege, racially motivated violence, poverty, feudalism, class differences, forced proximity, caretaking trope, grumpyxsunshine, high steam
August 9, 2023
I honestly loved it.
The hero was very Jaime Fraiser-core in the best way and the complexity of the heroine was so refreshing. It had the vibes of all those fun adventure movies where the sexual tension occurs during a great journey.
I'd say the only part i didn't absolutely love was the romantic confession, it felt too immediate even though the build-up was there. I do think i get what the author was trying to do though in creating a sort of innocent awkward frankness.
I was also pleasantly surprised by the resolution of the story.
Spoiler: I had a sinking feeling when Letty came to london and failed, got sick and needed to be rescued. I liked the acknowledgment of the lack of options but another book might've ended it with Cameron coming and saving her- the end. Instead we get more story that ends up with them both choosing each other from a more equitable position.
I also loved that Letty felt she had to say yes to his proposal and her struggling with knowing if she loved him because I have never understood how all these female protagonists fall in love after 2 minutes and it just so happens to be to the man who can solve all their problems. But of course the fact he's rich never has anything to do with that, even though women couldn't own property at the time because they were property. Factoring in a man's wealth was not only the smart thing but the necessary thing, but of course admitting that would make her unlikeable so most authors shy away from the fact and make it a huge coincidence. It was additionally satisfying that she still made her own way though.
The hero was very Jaime Fraiser-core in the best way and the complexity of the heroine was so refreshing. It had the vibes of all those fun adventure movies where the sexual tension occurs during a great journey.
I'd say the only part i didn't absolutely love was the romantic confession, it felt too immediate even though the build-up was there. I do think i get what the author was trying to do though in creating a sort of innocent awkward frankness.
I was also pleasantly surprised by the resolution of the story.
Spoiler: I had a sinking feeling when Letty came to london and failed, got sick and needed to be rescued. I liked the acknowledgment of the lack of options but another book might've ended it with Cameron coming and saving her- the end. Instead we get more story that ends up with them both choosing each other from a more equitable position.
I also loved that Letty felt she had to say yes to his proposal and her struggling with knowing if she loved him because I have never understood how all these female protagonists fall in love after 2 minutes and it just so happens to be to the man who can solve all their problems. But of course the fact he's rich never has anything to do with that, even though women couldn't own property at the time because they were property. Factoring in a man's wealth was not only the smart thing but the necessary thing, but of course admitting that would make her unlikeable so most authors shy away from the fact and make it a huge coincidence. It was additionally satisfying that she still made her own way though.
May 8, 2023
4.5⭐
2.5🌶
Louise Mayberry is absolutely amazing at teaching me fascinating historical facts in such an engaging and creative manner! Swept into the Storm, the latest installment in her Darnalay Castle series, delves into the dark history of slavery in the Americas, particularly focusing on the Yucatan. Letitia Monroe, also known as Letty, is a unique character with her mixed Maya and Scottish heritage. Growing up in the Yucatan, she dreams of contributing to the abolition of slavery. And when Cameron, the Earl of Banton, finds himself shipwrecked, Letty reluctantly steps in to help him.
While reading Mayberry's debut novel, Roses in Red Wax, I found myself intrigued by Cam's story. I was eager to explore his internal thoughts and witness his journey in assuming the role of an Earl. Let me tell you, he completely won me over with his charming, affectionate, and gentle nature! He was like the perfect complement to Letty, who exuded strength and authority.
Speaking of Letty, she was an absolute delight! I adored the fact that she didn't fit the traditional mold of a female protagonist in a historical or any other type of book. However, towards the end, her lack of communication with Cam became a bit frustrating due to her stubbornness. So you can imagine my relief when she finally stepped up and faced her challenges head-on!
I can only envision the incredible life these two characters would have together. I firmly believe that they would have made a profound impact on the world and brought about significant change. Their love and determination were truly inspiring, and I have no doubt that their legacy would be one for the ages!
2.5🌶
Louise Mayberry is absolutely amazing at teaching me fascinating historical facts in such an engaging and creative manner! Swept into the Storm, the latest installment in her Darnalay Castle series, delves into the dark history of slavery in the Americas, particularly focusing on the Yucatan. Letitia Monroe, also known as Letty, is a unique character with her mixed Maya and Scottish heritage. Growing up in the Yucatan, she dreams of contributing to the abolition of slavery. And when Cameron, the Earl of Banton, finds himself shipwrecked, Letty reluctantly steps in to help him.
While reading Mayberry's debut novel, Roses in Red Wax, I found myself intrigued by Cam's story. I was eager to explore his internal thoughts and witness his journey in assuming the role of an Earl. Let me tell you, he completely won me over with his charming, affectionate, and gentle nature! He was like the perfect complement to Letty, who exuded strength and authority.
Speaking of Letty, she was an absolute delight! I adored the fact that she didn't fit the traditional mold of a female protagonist in a historical or any other type of book. However, towards the end, her lack of communication with Cam became a bit frustrating due to her stubbornness. So you can imagine my relief when she finally stepped up and faced her challenges head-on!
I can only envision the incredible life these two characters would have together. I firmly believe that they would have made a profound impact on the world and brought about significant change. Their love and determination were truly inspiring, and I have no doubt that their legacy would be one for the ages!
May 14, 2023
Cameron Dunn, the Earl of Banton, has felt at a loss, since he unexpectedly inherited his title, in the Scottish Highlands. Searching for meaning in his life, he ventures to Mexico to examine one of his business ventures. When a storm capsizes the ship he is on, he finds himself being saved by Letty Monro, who for fifty pounds, or his signet ring, will get him back to the British Settlement. Along the way, Cameron becomes perilously ill and again requiring to be saved by Letty.
I enjoyed the second addition to Darnalay Castle, having loved ‘Roses in Red Wax’. Set against the backdrop of the Yucatan Peninsula, the author weaves the plight of Letty, who has grown up with a father convicted of sedition, fighting for reform, and a Mayan mother. Cam is drawn to her, and finds her passion inspiring, and he begins to question all he has known about racism. Whilst a romance at heart, this book explores the issue of abolition, and not just as an add-on, often seen in this genre. There is tremendous depth shown to this issue, poignantly highlighted when Letty’s mother explains how her husband understood that he could only help others become emancipated through compassion and not due to pity. This romance is not shallow, but full of passion and uncertainty. A thoroughly enjoyable addition to the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I enjoyed the second addition to Darnalay Castle, having loved ‘Roses in Red Wax’. Set against the backdrop of the Yucatan Peninsula, the author weaves the plight of Letty, who has grown up with a father convicted of sedition, fighting for reform, and a Mayan mother. Cam is drawn to her, and finds her passion inspiring, and he begins to question all he has known about racism. Whilst a romance at heart, this book explores the issue of abolition, and not just as an add-on, often seen in this genre. There is tremendous depth shown to this issue, poignantly highlighted when Letty’s mother explains how her husband understood that he could only help others become emancipated through compassion and not due to pity. This romance is not shallow, but full of passion and uncertainty. A thoroughly enjoyable addition to the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 26, 2023
REVIEW
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this wonderful ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
👩🏼❤️👨🏼👩🏼❤️👨🏼
I've just been reading amazing historical Romances back to back after a long break. But, this historical romance is unlike any I've ever read, it's more about the history than the romance and I commend the author for the wonderful job she did. I've never read any HRs like this, HRs that are brutally honest about slavery, racism, class and the feudal system. I loved the honesty, it was one of a kind. This book literally brought the Historical in Historical Romance.
👩🏼❤️👨🏼👩🏼❤️👨🏼
I loved the MMCs, especially Letty, she was so brave and strong. Standing up for what she believed in, never giving up. She was an agent of change. I loved Cameron too, he knew his society was wrong and he worked to make things better and effect change. I loved their romance, their chemistry and that Cameron fell in love first.
👩🏼❤️👨🏼👩🏼❤️👨🏼
I loved the side characters, especially Letty's family. I also liked that there was a Nigerian character, Emeka in the book.
👩🏼❤️👨🏼👩🏼❤️👨🏼
Most of all, I loved the history, slavery, and the abolitionist efforts.
👩🏼❤️👨🏼👩🏼❤️👨🏼
This book was amazing and I'm glad my request was accepted. I hope y'all give this book a chance, it's worth it!
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this wonderful ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
👩🏼❤️👨🏼👩🏼❤️👨🏼
I've just been reading amazing historical Romances back to back after a long break. But, this historical romance is unlike any I've ever read, it's more about the history than the romance and I commend the author for the wonderful job she did. I've never read any HRs like this, HRs that are brutally honest about slavery, racism, class and the feudal system. I loved the honesty, it was one of a kind. This book literally brought the Historical in Historical Romance.
👩🏼❤️👨🏼👩🏼❤️👨🏼
I loved the MMCs, especially Letty, she was so brave and strong. Standing up for what she believed in, never giving up. She was an agent of change. I loved Cameron too, he knew his society was wrong and he worked to make things better and effect change. I loved their romance, their chemistry and that Cameron fell in love first.
👩🏼❤️👨🏼👩🏼❤️👨🏼
I loved the side characters, especially Letty's family. I also liked that there was a Nigerian character, Emeka in the book.
👩🏼❤️👨🏼👩🏼❤️👨🏼
Most of all, I loved the history, slavery, and the abolitionist efforts.
👩🏼❤️👨🏼👩🏼❤️👨🏼
This book was amazing and I'm glad my request was accepted. I hope y'all give this book a chance, it's worth it!
May 1, 2023
You guys....I think I found me a historical romance auto-buy author!! 🥳
This is book 2 in The Darnalay Castles Series. This story follows Cameron, The Earl of Banton, across the sea to the Yucatan Peninsula, where he is shipwrecked and saved by Letty, a Mayan/Scottish woman, who is set on bringing an end to slavery.
I like how Cameron grew from this adventurous, and somewhat naive man, to see the harsh reality to those beneath his position as an Earl, and come to terms with what that means and how he can change and do better.
I love how this is a historical romance, and there are actually historical events happening around the romance. It's not just a love story set in the past or a period era. I really like Louise's research and respect for the historical aspects of that time period and what was going on at the moment. 👏🏼👏🏼 I also enjoyed reading her Historical Notes at the end of the book.
Thank you so much, @louise.mayberry.writes for the ARC! ❤️ I can't wait to see what's next and new stories you have for us!
This is book 2 in The Darnalay Castles Series. This story follows Cameron, The Earl of Banton, across the sea to the Yucatan Peninsula, where he is shipwrecked and saved by Letty, a Mayan/Scottish woman, who is set on bringing an end to slavery.
I like how Cameron grew from this adventurous, and somewhat naive man, to see the harsh reality to those beneath his position as an Earl, and come to terms with what that means and how he can change and do better.
I love how this is a historical romance, and there are actually historical events happening around the romance. It's not just a love story set in the past or a period era. I really like Louise's research and respect for the historical aspects of that time period and what was going on at the moment. 👏🏼👏🏼 I also enjoyed reading her Historical Notes at the end of the book.
Thank you so much, @louise.mayberry.writes for the ARC! ❤️ I can't wait to see what's next and new stories you have for us!
October 5, 2023
3.5 stars -- this historical romance had a lot of history in it, and while some parts dragged a bit it was overall an interesting and unique read for this genre!
Cameron, a Scottish earl, washes up on the shore of the Yucatan peninsula where he meets Letty -- the headstrong and determined young woman who has a plan to add her voice to the European abolitionist movement. A relationship wasn't in the cards for either one of them -- especially with one another. But as the two travel and take care of one another, their feelings begin to grow.
I deeply emphasized with both of these characters: Lettie who did not want to be in a relationship where she wasn't treated like an equal and Cameron who was just starting to come to terms with his role in society and his power to do something about it. This relationship is a rocky road but made their ultimate HEA all that much sweeter. I think the conversations about the abolitionist movement that were so central to this book were even more important (and compelling) than the romance.
Cameron, a Scottish earl, washes up on the shore of the Yucatan peninsula where he meets Letty -- the headstrong and determined young woman who has a plan to add her voice to the European abolitionist movement. A relationship wasn't in the cards for either one of them -- especially with one another. But as the two travel and take care of one another, their feelings begin to grow.
I deeply emphasized with both of these characters: Lettie who did not want to be in a relationship where she wasn't treated like an equal and Cameron who was just starting to come to terms with his role in society and his power to do something about it. This relationship is a rocky road but made their ultimate HEA all that much sweeter. I think the conversations about the abolitionist movement that were so central to this book were even more important (and compelling) than the romance.
May 20, 2023
Cameron Dunn is a highland laird who finds himself washed up on a beach after his boat shipwrecks. Letty Monro encounters him on the beach and agrees to help him in exchange for payment.
Although Letty is an extremely serious woman, she begins to open up to Cameron about her life. The two come to a realization that they cannot be apart, and they eventually marry.
To begin, I enjoyed the plot of this book. Admittedly, it was a little difficult for me to get into. I did not like the extremely short sentences in the beginning, although I was extremely relieved that that pattern did not continue throughout the book.
I wish I would have gotten to learn as much about Cameron as I did Letty, but it did not affect the quality of the book. The plot was creative and something I have never read before. I found it to be refreshing.
A would like to give a huge thank you to NetGalley for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book.
Although Letty is an extremely serious woman, she begins to open up to Cameron about her life. The two come to a realization that they cannot be apart, and they eventually marry.
To begin, I enjoyed the plot of this book. Admittedly, it was a little difficult for me to get into. I did not like the extremely short sentences in the beginning, although I was extremely relieved that that pattern did not continue throughout the book.
I wish I would have gotten to learn as much about Cameron as I did Letty, but it did not affect the quality of the book. The plot was creative and something I have never read before. I found it to be refreshing.
A would like to give a huge thank you to NetGalley for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2023
•I'm always on the hunt for a reverse Grumpy and Sunshine book and this one certainly is a good rep of that. The FMC, Letty is strong, independent and a Maya smuggler of late Georgian time period🤯
•This book has many inclusions - LGBT gay couple portrayed in a fitting way, asthma rep(hero), both virgins, slow burn romance.
•The way the romance is written is distinctive, Cameron, MMC is caring and protective towards others but doesn't realise that sometimes it can be seen as suffocating and at their mercy. Relationship with Letty opens his eyes and his whole character development is pure bliss to watch.
•Letty is a complex character, really closed off and a bit cold towards Cameron. She is a character who felt every hardship coming her way needs to be faced alone but i do have much respect for her and the ending was concluded nicely(Epilogue❣️). They were an ideal match.
•This book has many inclusions - LGBT gay couple portrayed in a fitting way, asthma rep(hero), both virgins, slow burn romance.
•The way the romance is written is distinctive, Cameron, MMC is caring and protective towards others but doesn't realise that sometimes it can be seen as suffocating and at their mercy. Relationship with Letty opens his eyes and his whole character development is pure bliss to watch.
•Letty is a complex character, really closed off and a bit cold towards Cameron. She is a character who felt every hardship coming her way needs to be faced alone but i do have much respect for her and the ending was concluded nicely(Epilogue❣️). They were an ideal match.
August 3, 2023
Louise loves socially active themes.
Here she deals with the thorny issue of slavery, giving us an internal glimpse, because the FMC, Letti, lives in the British colonies in the Bay of Honduras during the early 1800s.
She has a Maya mother and a Scottish father and lives in a reality where slavery is a fact.
Letti is an abolitionist and helps slaves escape.
Her mission is to go to London to plead for the prohibition of slavery.
But it is not in London that she meets Cameron, Earl of Banton, but on a beach after he is shipwrecked. Cameron is a very sweet man, too good for his own good, who can't find his purpose in his life. When he meets Letti, such a strong and determined woman, he immediately falls in love with her.
Between difficult situations and many doubts, the two will finally find their happily ever after.
Here she deals with the thorny issue of slavery, giving us an internal glimpse, because the FMC, Letti, lives in the British colonies in the Bay of Honduras during the early 1800s.
She has a Maya mother and a Scottish father and lives in a reality where slavery is a fact.
Letti is an abolitionist and helps slaves escape.
Her mission is to go to London to plead for the prohibition of slavery.
But it is not in London that she meets Cameron, Earl of Banton, but on a beach after he is shipwrecked. Cameron is a very sweet man, too good for his own good, who can't find his purpose in his life. When he meets Letti, such a strong and determined woman, he immediately falls in love with her.
Between difficult situations and many doubts, the two will finally find their happily ever after.
May 4, 2023
This is the second book of The Darnalay Castle series. I had the privilege to read it as an e-ARC. Cameron was my absolute favorite from the first book because of his charm. And I was so excited to see that he was having his own story. It was absolutely the perfect read! I love to vacay in the Caribbean’s. So, the setting was all I ever wished for. I love how Louise always creates fiercely strong female characters. And Letty did not disappoint! Oh… and there’s plenty of steamy scenes. 😉
Add to tbr if you like the following:
- Historical romance
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Forced proximity
- Shipwreck
- Self discovery
Thank you, Louise Mayberry for another great story! 💕
Add to tbr if you like the following:
- Historical romance
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Forced proximity
- Shipwreck
- Self discovery
Thank you, Louise Mayberry for another great story! 💕
May 17, 2023
Once again Louise Mayberry draws us in to the characters world and mind while painting a picture of this moment in their lives that means everything. This adventure takes us to Central America and back to Scotland for a slowly developing and deep love of Cameron and Letty. The author continues to turn the traditional period piece romance on its end and dives into the unjustness happenings in this time. She places the characters on the edge of being the change makers for the future and let’s us get to know these people deeply.
As Louise Mayberry builds this world, I am left wanting to learn more and read the next installment of the Darnlay series.
As Louise Mayberry builds this world, I am left wanting to learn more and read the next installment of the Darnlay series.
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