Charming the Captain

Hearts of Cornwall #6

by K. Lyn Smith

A spirited lady and a reserved army captain—can these opposites possibly find love?

A SPIRITED LADY
Bronwyn Kimbrell has always thrived in the bustle of village life, but with her best friend newly married, she finds herself restless and yearning for a purpose. When Captain Gabriel Marsh arrives in Newford with his solemn young daughter, she sees an opportunity. They clearly need a friend, even if Gabriel refuses to admit it. But winning over the reserved captain proves more challenging than Bronwyn expected—especially when he’s determined to resist her at every turn.

A RESERVED CAPTAIN
Gabriel Marsh never expected to be raising a young daughter. Now, he wants only to keep Emilia safe from the whispers of London and the dangers that lurk beyond England’s shores. Newford should have been the perfect refuge where he could remain unnoticed, his past left far behind. But Bronwyn refuses to let him disappear. With her bright smile and stubborn kindness, she disrupts the careful order he’s built—and the walls around his heart.

AN UNEXPECTED ALLIANCE
As the two come together over a traveling fair, a misbehaving pup, and one determined little girl, Gabriel finds himself drawn to the very woman he meant to avoid. But when a figure from his past reappears, threatening everything he’s fought to protect, he must will he cling to his pride, or risk his heart for the family he never thought to have?

Set in the picturesque seaside town of Newford, Charming the Captain is a heartwarming opposites-attract, second-chance-at-love tale. Each book in the Hearts of Cornwall series stands alone, though most readers prefer to enjoy them in order.

Genres: Regency, Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Romance, Regency Romance

359 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 6, 2025

About the author

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ABOUT K. LYN
K. Lyn Smith’s heart resides in Birmingham, Alabama, where she writes sweet historical romance about ordinary people finding extraordinary love. Her debut novel, The Astronomer’s Obsession, was a finalist for the National Excellence in Romantic Fiction Award, and many of her other titles have been shortlisted for honours such as the American Writing Award, the Carolyn Reader’s Choice Award, the HOLT Medallion and the Maggie Award.

When she’s not lost in the pages of a book, you can find her with family, traveling to far-off places and bingeing period dramas. And space documentaries. Weird, right?

Reviews

[Margaret P Medberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fun and lovely novel is set in the small town of Newford in Cornwall. Gabriel Marsh has rented an estate, and he and his young daughter Emelia are struggling to find their footing as well as servants to help them. Enter Bronwyyn Kimbrell. Bronwyn has a delightful but blunt and powerful personality. Her grandfather owns the estate next door to Gabriel, and she is related to everyone in the small town. Gabriel would prefer to stay hidden away. Bronwyn is highly curious about him and wants to help his daughter, and soon he finds he has to rely on her more than he would like.

The book is charming, quirky, and humorous, with some good intrigue and a nice romance that begins to bloom between Bronwyn and Gabriel. Add in a terrific description of the countryside and cavernous old estates, and sprinkle in a huge dog and an un-housebroken puppy, and you have a winning combination for a fun and entertaining read!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Tilde D · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charming the Captain

by K. Lyn Smith

Charming the Reader

In the small town of Newford in Cornwall, Captain Gabriel Marsh, former soldier in the Peninsular war and now working for the diplomatic service in London, arrives with his young daughter Emelia to take up residence in a rented estate.

Emelia, the daughter of Gabriel's Portuguese wife, now deceased, has been brought to England to live with her father, who was unaware of her existence. Trying to avert possible threats to Emelia from Portuguese political intrigue, which may follow her to England, Gabriel's plan is to live a quiet life hidden away in Newford.

That plan goes awry when the Captain's arrival in town catches the attention of Bronwyyn Kimbrell. Bronwyn is a blunt-speaking, managing female with a sunny, funloving personality, who is determined to help Gabriel and his daughter become part of the community. She seems to be related to everyone in town, and is able to help Gabriel with everything from hiring household staff to finding local experts in garden design and estate management. She also reaches out to Emelia, a reserved young girl who speaks little English and misses her mother and their life in Portugal.

Gabriel soon finds himself charmed by Bronwyn and the townsfolk more than he would like, and more than seems safe for his daughter, if there are in fact outside forces meaning to do her harm.

The book is quirky and humorous, with antics involving a community fair, a huge dog and an adorable puppy, and an unexpected plot twist near the end, leading to a rather thrilling, deadly confrontation when foreign agents do indeed arrive in Newford.

I really liked Gabriel, with his quiet intelligence and sense of humor, even as he copes with feelings of guilt over the failure of his marriage.

Bronwyn I was a little less fond of, the "managing female" character being much harder to make likeable, imo. Still, she was wonderfully kind to the shy Emelia and made it very plausible that Gabriel would come to love her.

The townfolk of Newford, with all the various intertwined families in the community as well as the ever-present Kimbrells, were a bit overwhelming, too, but I realize this is one of a series of books about Newford and its inhabitants, and many characters from previous books in the series make an appearance. It really doesn't detract from reading the book as a stand alone. Overall I'm giving this book 4.5 stars.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Melissa’s Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the love for this book! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed K. Lyn Smith’s Hearts of Cornwall series & couldn’t wait to get the spunky, spirited Bronwyn’s story! Charming the Captain was everything I hoped for & more.

Bronwyn Kimbrell’s at a bit of a loss after her best friend Kate gets married. When she meets her grandfather’s new neighbor, the aloof, mysterious Captain Gabriel Marsh & his young daughter, she sees an opportunity to help. The Captain though is not excited about her good natured meddling. But, when he finds himself in need of house staff, he turns to Bronwyn for help.

Captain Gabriel Marsh had the surprise of his life when he found out his estranged wife had passed away in Portugal leaving him a seven-year-old daughter he never knew about. When rumors plague him in London, he retreats with his daughter to Newford, the quiet, small Cornish town. But there, his facial scar, unwillingness to interact with society, & mysterious past earns him the moniker of vampire. Rather than letting him hide away with his daughter, Bronwyn with her sunny, stubborn, kind persistence gets under his skin as she encourages him & his daughter to interact with his neighbors. Soon he finds himself participating in a fair, buying a puppy, & opening his heart. But, when his past returns to haunt him, will he have the courage to let Bronwyn in & love again?

I absolutely adored this opposites attract, second chance romance. The banter was delicious & I enjoyed the way they matched wits. Bronwyn is a force to be reckoned with. I loved the way she connected to Emilia & learned to communicate with her despite the language barrier. I also enjoyed the way she taught the Captain how to love & care for his daughter. She reminded me a tiny bit of Maria from The Sound of Music with her ability to bring Emilia out of her shell & help her cope with her loss & new surroundings.

In the background is always the threat of the man who gave Gabriel his scar returning to steal Emilia away. I enjoyed the climactic ending & Bronwyn’s role. I also adored the epilogue & the HEA ending.

Highly recommend this delightful, clean Regency! I received an advanced copy from the author but also purchased a copy through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are completely my own & voluntarily provided.

[Auriette · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a delight to return to Newford and the Kimbrell clan, this time to see Bronwyn find her happily ever after. Author K. Lyn Smith makes this seaside town in Cornwall come to life with her vivid descriptions of people and places.

Bronwyn Kimbrell is a natural-born manager. She enjoys taking the lead and making things happen. When Captain Gabriel Marsh rents a rundown house near town, Bronwyn makes it her mission to meet him and help him assimilate into the community. It's not so much the captain who first draws her attention, but the stunning horse he rode in on.

Gabriel has no interest in forming attachments with anyone but his seven-year-old daughter. He didn't know of her existence until she was delivered to his doorstep with the message that his estranged wife had died. He has enough on his plate, trying to earn Emilia's trust and protect her from the dangers that may be following her from her native Portugal.

Bronwyn's brother Merryn, her friends and family all warn her against nosing in and giving unwanted advice, but it's not in her nature to leave someone alone to suffer if she can help.

I had to keep a few tissues nearby the whole time I was reading "Charming the Captain." Sometimes, my eyes were leaking with laughter. Other times, I was touched by the way Bronwyn's kindness drew out the personality of little Emilia and helped her be herself again.

Smith has also woven in a mystery that is resolved at the end with an explosive confrontation. This is a delightful story, sweet and suitable for all ages.

This book is part of the Hearts of Cornwall series, and while it's not necessary to read them in order, they are all so good, I recommend adding the whole series to your reading list.

I received an advance reader copy at no charge; all opinions expressed here are my own.

[Rosanne Lortz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bronwyn Kimbrell is a managing female who likes to solve problems whenever they arise for the people around her. When the aloof Captain Gabriel Marsh leases an estate outside Newford, Bronwyn takes it upon herself to help him find servants, reclaim his garden, and care for his little Portuguese daughter. But the secrets in Gabriel’s past are not something he wants to share with Bronwyn, and despite their growing attraction for each other, it’s possible that even Bronwyn’s friendly sunshine will not be able to shed light on the darkness Gabriel harbors.

This book had a unique and memorable plot blending foreign intrigue with small village gossip. Gabriel’s shame and embarrassment over his first marriage is deftly described, as is Bronwyn’s interfering nature which proves both a strength and a weakness. The family relationships in the book were tender and true: Gabriel’s fierce affection for his daughter was touching, and both Bronwyn’s grandfather and brother demonstrate care and protection.

Throughout the book, Bronwyn learns to harness her effervescent efficiency so that she can serve others in the way they want to be served, and Gabriel learns to overcome his prickly pride enough to let others help and love him. Although Bronwyn is clearly the first to be smitten by her new neighbor, it is delightful to watch Gabriel’s dark broodiness metamorphose into romantic desire and watch his newfound love for Bronwyn crescendo into the final cadence.

I have not yet read the other books in this series, and although many of Bronwyn’s relatives showed up in this story, I probably felt less overwhelmed by them than Gabriel did. In other words, I was able to follow the plot quite well as a standalone novel. Recommended.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Cathy R Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

When his estranged wife leaves a young daughter for him to bring up, Gabriel takes her to a quiet English village, hoping to keep her safe from the shadowy threats he's been warned of. But the welcoming but gossipy villagers seem reluctant to leave him to his solitude - in particular, one managing young lady who apparently wants to organise his whole household for him. It needs it, but Gabriel hoped for anonymity, however much Bronwyn might intrigue him - and however well she connects with the too-silent Emilia. Somehow, though, she makes him wish for things he'd given up on - or never dated hope for. Are his fears well-founded, or is he robbing Emilia of a normal life in trying to protect her? And will Bronwyn's efforts to help Gabriel lead to the relationship she's always wanted or go too far and destroy even their friendship?

A charming read with interesting characters, a slow-burn romance and a touch of suspense. I loved watching Emilia gradually come out of her shell, helped naturally by Bronwyn but also with Gabriel's fumbling efforts. That shared aim did a lot to bring the pair together, despite initially almost separating them due to his desire for secrecy for Emilia's sake, and it worked really well. And while she's definitely at least borderline too pushy/managing, it was always clear that she did so from the point of wanting the best for him, not for her, which was great. And the 'showdown' scene was a great addition, bringing out things that might otherwise have remained unsaid. All in all, a great read and I'm looking forward to the next already.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ifeanyi Omoike · Rating 4 out of 5]

Humorous. A breath of fresh air. Spunky, mischievous heroine.

At first, I thought I’d rate this book 3 stars—I know, I’d be the first!—but hear me out. Initially, I didn’t understand Bronwyn’s motivation for trying to meet the captain. It would have helped to get a glimpse of her background or at least hints of what was driving her. Her intent felt unclear, which made her a little frustrating in the beginning.

Despite that, Gabriel stood out to me right from the start—an introvert with a responsible, intriguing air and a guarded, vulnerable love for his daughter, Emilia. He was a compelling anchor, and I wanted more of his story. And I must admit, Bronwyn’s spunky, defiant nature did grow on me. I just wish she’d been given more agency. She was clearly driven and determined, and I think her character had the potential to do so much more. A little more depth would have made her truly shine.

But I’m so glad I stuck with it, because I was richly rewarded. I completely lost myself in the familial, funny, warm, and memorable world of Newford. The characters pulled me in, and I didn’t want to leave. I even went back to reread a few scenes just to spend more time with them.

Also, I now have a crush on Merryn, Bronwyn’s wise and fascinating brother. I really hope he’s next in line for a love story—I can’t wait to see who K. Lyn Smith pairs him with!

If you’re looking for a story to kick back with and completely escape into, this one’s a cozy, rewarding delight. Highly recommend!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Patti Wolff · Rating 5 out of 5]

K. Lyn Smith invites readers on a lovely trip to fictional Newford, Cornwall, where again they meet the delightful (and extensive) Kimbrell clan. The sixth installment of the Hearts of Cornwall series, "Charming the Captain" features Bronwyn Kimbrell, who has determined it is her "moral obligation" to meet, assess, and then integrate reclusive new neighbor Captain Gabriel Marsh into the neighborhood. In her forthright, managing manner, she engages staff for his new household, and has unsolicited opinions about EVERYTHING. This approach would not normally endear the recipient of the "advice" to the well-meaning interloper, yet Bronwyn is so sweet and sincere, her efforts are quickly appreciated.

The author has created a wonderful village filled with engaging characters. The Captain has valid reasons for avoiding society. There is a confrontation near the end, of course, with a completely unexpected twist. Marsh's daughter is adorable, somber at first. Adding in a devoted Wolfhound and a misbehaving puppy contributes to more than one amusing moment. Smith's prose is lovely, banter clever and witty. I have read all the installments, and they're so entertaining. There are so many members of the loyal and affectionate Kimbrell clan it's hard to keep track of them all. If memory serves, there are two unattached cousins. I look forward to another diverting visit to Newford.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Angelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I read one of K. Lynn Smith’s Hearts of Cornwall books I say, “This is the best one yet!” This time is no exception. When retired Captain Gabriel Marsh moves to Penhale Manor with his young daughter, he’s glad to find a place where no one from his past can find him, and he wants to keep it that way, even if that means hiding away from the townspeople of Newford.

What he doesn’t count on is Bronwyn Kimbrell. When Bronwyn meets the reclusive widower and sees the disarray of his household, she does what she always does. She decides to fix things. While some might call her helpful, and others might say she has a take-charge attitude, Gabriel decides she’s more of a butt-insky and originally resists her efforts until she steamrolls her way into his and his daughter’s lives.

Their story is a sweet, slow building romance. Neither Bronwyn nor Gabriel is perfect. They clash, they do stupid things, and they make mistakes. But they both have their hearts in the right place, and that makes them likeable and relatable. I love how their story plays out. It’s a swoon-worthy romance with wit and charm. Ms. Lynn’s attention to detail puts you right in the middle of Regency England. Charming the Captain also gives readers a chance to check in on the other Kembrells and their families. I absolutely love this book and this series, and I can’t wait for the next installment.

I received an advance review copy of this book and am happily leaving this five-star review.

[Jessica Harrison · Rating 4 out of 5]

[3.5 stars]
First off, despite my below complaints, this is indeed a good book. It’s humorous with a good pace. The writing is smooth and engaging. I read it through and never considered a DNF. It is, however, the 6th book in a beloved series, which sets my expectations and requirements higher than if it were a random book I picked off the digital shelf.

Primarily, I disliked the characters, especially the FMC. She is a ball of unbridled energy. If it were simply her word-vomit rambling we would be good, as it was amusing and perhaps even endearing. But alas, she is an overbearing busybody who insists on interfering and dominating everything and everybody. It became increasingly obnoxious as the book progressed and began to truly grate on me.

The romance felt flat, lacking in any real chemistry or connection. This is probably in part because I disliked the characters but, even more, there is an age gap that felt significant and inappropriate. The MCs are supposed to be 24 vs 30, but his personality put him closer to 40, and hers not a day past 16. It just wasn’t right.

Anyhow, this has been an awesome series, but one could probably skip book 6.

Content.
There is no foul language or sex. There is some violence, but it’s not excessive. There is mention of adultery (in the past and not an MC). The romance is limited to lightly descriptive kisses. There is no real mention of faith or God.

[Lou · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Charming The Captain” is the 6th in k. Lyn Smith beautiful series Hearts Of Cornwall. This is the story of Bronwyn Kimbrell and captain Gabriel Marsh.

I just adore Bronwyn. She is a breath of fresh air. I laughed every time she opens her mouth.
Pairing a brooding, grumpy, reserved hero with a high-spirited, outspoken, meddlesome, prying, managing Miss is a match made in heavens for all lovers of Opposites attract trope. Add to the mix a troubled kid, a strained father-daughter relationship, and you got a heartfelt story that tugs at your heart strings.

The setting and side characters add richness and authenticity to the story.
K. Lyn Smith has done an outstanding job bringing to life the small town of Newford with all its familiar inhabitants, especially the Kimbrell family with all the brothers and cousins we came to know and love throughout the series .
It’s always a joy to return to Cornwall and meet again with the extensive Kimbrell family. I hope there will be more books in this wonderful series.

I always enjoy reading a book by K.Lyn Smith. Her writing style is simply perfect. Her stories are full of romance, humor and banter. And Charming The Captain is no exception.
I highly recommend Charming The Captain and the whole series for all lovers of sweet fun historical romance.

[SH · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bronwyn Kimbrell has always thrived in Newford, but with her best friend newly married, she finds herself restless and yearning for a purpose. When Captain Gabriel Marsh arrives in Newford with Emilia, his young daughter, Bronwyn is determined to win them both over, but Gabriel wants to be left alone. He is determined to keep Emilia safe from the whispers of London and the dangers that lurk beyond England’s shores. He believes that the quiet village is the perfect refuge where he could remain unnoticed, but Bronwyn refuses to let him disappear. Slowly, Bronwyn begins to win Gabriel over, but when his past life threatens everything that he fought to protect, he is left uncertain whether to cling to his pride or risk his heart for the family he never thought to have.
A sweet romance that is well told through both Bronwyn and Gabriel’s perspectives. Gabriel’s struggles threaten to overwhelm him, but I found it touching how he developed as a father throughout the book. Bronwyn is exactly the person that he needs, with her strength being exactly what he needed and her caring nature well suited to drawing Emilia out from her sorrow. A delightful read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Tracy Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

When his estranged and ever erratic ex passes away abroad she leaves Gabriel a surprise. A young daughter.
Forces want the child back on the continent so, hoping to keep her safe he leaves, firstly for London, then sensing danger, sets out for a small village where a disaster of a derelict house stands.

Gossip and harpys seem to be the order of the day in this little village though and all he wants to do is exist in his small bubble- in peace and safety.
Bronwyn is intrigued by him, engaged with his daughter. Her young naive self not realizing her heart is making her fall til she's there.

He never wanted to be close to another female again. His last abandoned him after causing much hurt. Yet Bronwyn, although feisty in her own world, is never malicious and his heart flickers to life whenever she is near.


A charming tale with engaging characters, a touch of suspense, and lovely dialogue bring this tale to life. Watching Emilia, his daughter, heal from her mothers loss and her fear of this stranger, her own father, is wonderfully real and true to life.


I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Carolyn Jacobs · Rating 5 out of 5]

So fun. This is the 6th book in the series - I'll be going back to read the rest. It was refreshingly free of titles and full of found family.

At 24, Bronwyn is perilously close to being considered on the shelf. She's spunky, clever, and unintentionally hilarious. "But contriving another meeting. . .well. Was that not the purpose of dropping her handkerchief in his drawing room?"

Gabriel is a prickly, wounded hero with a heart of gold and a daughter he didn't know about. Secrets, danger, and misconceptions abound. Bronwyn's gentle touch with Gabriel's grieving daughter is unexpectedly welcome. "It wasn't pity he felt from her - had it been, he'd have withdrawn at once. But there seemed a quiet understanding in her touch, though how she could know his heart when he barely understood it was beyond him."

Bronwyn is no damsel in distress. She holds her own in the face of danger. She and Gabriel make a great pair.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[The Naptime Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charming the Captain is another delightful story in K. Lyn Smith’s Hearts of Cornwall series! I’ve read the whole series – it’s great! Bronwyn and Gabriel (and little Emilia!) are wonderful characters, the setting is beautifully described, and the plot moves at a nice pace. Bronwyn is honest and straight-forward while Gabriel is reserved with a mysterious past; they make for an unlikely and fun pairing. I enjoyed the dual POV storytelling, and the romance is sweet and clean. Watching Gabriel develop as a father is the cutest, too! I wish the book was a little longer to provide more space for relationship development and conversations between Bronwyn and Gabriel. Overall, this is an enjoyable and immersive read with sweet romance and a little bit of mystery. This can be read as a standalone story, but it’s so more fun when you have read the other books in the series and are familiar with the Kimbrell family and the charming setting of Newford.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

“He hadn’t realized how heavy his burden had been until it began to lift.”

Honestly, the frustration of not finding a SIXTH star for this wonderful book! More than a romance, it has all the usual delights of a return to Newford and the Kimbrell clan, plus some interesting European history. I adore the way protagonists Bronwyn and Gabriel individually grow in this tale, each finally pushing away the sepals of pride as their love blooms. The addition of Emilia is brilliant- she is the perfect centerpiece of this story. Not only is she the reason her father arrives in Cornwall, but her interactions are a lovely peek into the hearts of the adults who love her (even a would-be villain!). As usual, K. Lyn Smith spins her eloquent prose into such a COMPLETE story that it has me resorting to capitals! I am grateful to have received an advance copy via Book Sirens, and was not required to post a review.

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written, does keep you on the edge of your seat. Full of mystery, drama, love, family, villains, action, secrets, intrigue and twists. The characters are all witty, with passionate banter and each has a reaction to their interactions. Gabriel is a retired Captain , who found out he has a young daughter that he never knew about. Once in London with her, he hears that his wife's lover is heading here to find them. He moves them to a quiet town where he meets a young woman. Bronwyn meets him when her cart has a broken wheel. She also meets his daughter at their home. She offers her help to find staff plus a governess and a gardener. Then trouble shows up and the mystery of who really wants to hurt her. Everyone tries to protect her from any one trying to do just that. Has action that keeps you reading and wanting more. Would recommend to everyone.

I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.

[Rabia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the book! First of all, revisiting Newford and getting re-acquainted by its residents is always a pleasure. Secondly, this story was unique, in the sense that the heroine did most of the wooing. And she did it just by being her bubbly, charming self. The way she drew out the Captain and his daughter and made them accepted into Newford society was ingenious. The name of the book is quite apt, because she did charm him! Thirdly, the humour and wit in the book was above par. The author has expertly used witty dialogues to make the reader connect with the characters. Finally, the mystery element in the story just adds a dash of excitement to it.

I hope there will be a book about Merryn's romance in the future.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[C.Y. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. While I’ve read several books by this author, I’m not sure why this is the only one I’ve read from this particular series. Gabriel and Bronwyn’s tale was both amusing and heartwarming. I loved Bronwyn’s spunky nature and how she defied the expectations society had for women of that time. Her boldness contrasted perfectly with Gabriel’s grumpiness, making their interactions even more entertaining.

The addition of a young girl to the story added a sweet and tender element, especially since she formed a stronger bond with Bronwyn than with her own father. There’s also an intriguing mystery woven into the plot, but what stood out most was the satisfying happily ever after.

I was given an advanced copy of this book for free and I’m leaving my review voluntarily.

[Luci Jamison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four and a half stars for this book and series!
I have read each book and they can be read as standalone books but having read each in sequence I highly recommend doing that yourself.
It allows the supporting characters to have their own “background “ and added to the plots ( in my opinion)
I really loved both the hero and heroine in this story. They were not afraid to be themselves and were good and caring. They each had their own unique moments of struggle but that did not stop them from being strong and open to love. I loved the banter and wit as well.
The author does a marvelous job of creating a world full of believable characters and adventures within the plot line.
I recommend this book, series and author.
I received an ARC copy of the book and all opinions are my own.

[Helen Causer · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Gabriel Marsh and his young daughter arrived at their new abode, Penhale, just across from the Kimbrell Manor, Bronwyn Kimbrell knocked on their door, and offered her advice on engaging local staff.

She had witnessed the arrival of Captain Marsh and his daughter, to the rundown house in Newford, but found the Captain terse and unapproachable.
Gabriel had been let down by the Domestic Agency he had hired, and was afraid of local gossip, but soon relented and took Bronwyn’s advice.

I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily

This story had me hooked from start to finish, with Bronwyn’s forthright way of speaking to the Captain, and the thrilling ending, with several “Kimbrells” involved.

[Southern Belle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this author’s ability to pull you into a good love story with a bit of mystery on the side. Gabriel is both annoyed and intrigued with Bronwyn’s wanting to help him manage his household. He tries to stay hidden from the gossips of the town only to fuel their fire, so he finally gives in to Bronwyn’s machinations to get him involved in the town. Some of my favorite parts were the tender scenes of a father getting to know and trying to protect his young daughter. It was so sweet to watch them grow close with Bronwyn’s help. Her tender heart just can’t resist reaching out to Emilia, and she succeeds with gaining both of their trust to the betterment of all. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[CORINNE · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am reviewing it voluntarily voluntarily this was indeed a charming romance

Quite a different view of Regency times out of the hustle of London and the ton

An endearing small town who gossip too much but have each other’s back

I loved the forthright attitude of Brownwyn she made me laugh sometimes speaking her mind without thinking but so aware of herself to admit it openly and such a kind heart

Gabriel a little Darcy ish but again honest

Amelia was a sweetheart too

Loved the idea of secret tunnels leading to other houses and to the sea such smuggling went on I’m sure

A little drama of course a lady shooting a villain that’s a first in my regency reading great stuff

Absolutely charming

[Sherry Bendorf · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this regency romance. I have read 4 in this series and every one of them have been so fun. From the humorous, quick-witted banter between the characters to the conflict that drives the storyline, I enjoyed it all. I found myself with a great big smile as I read. I think that Ms. Smith does a good job developing her characters. I find myself endured to some of the characters especially the grandfather in the story.

I would highly recommend this whole series. They can be read as stand alone, but the story is richer if you have the back story of the Kimbrell family. I look forward to the next one.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[MEF · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I particularly like about the book is the conversation and witty teasing between Bronwyn and Captain Marsh, it really gives you a feeling for their characters. I liked them both and could see why they liked each other.

They are interesting individually and as a potential couple.
I really enjoyed how their relationship develops amidst small Cornish town busybodying.
Bronwyn isn’t above managing other people’s business herself! She’s rather successful too.
But her managing comes from a good heart and desire to help and I was as won over by her as the Captain.

I first discovered this author in her book Light of the Nile and this has the same spark and witty charm

A lovely read

I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[English · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charming the Captain is the latest in a series of Romances set in 19th century Cornwall. I've only read one other book in the series and I need to catch up.
Bronwyn and Captain Marsh have a delightfully adversarial relationship which leads to some wonderfully witty scenes. There's also little Amelia and Bronwyn's dog who are all wonderful characters in their own right.

This story has a little bit of almost everything. Intrigue, humour, romance. Really enjoyed it.

Note to readers: This isn't an Inspirational/Christian novel like I normally read, but is clean. Still can recommend to Regengy lovers.

I received an ARC of this title via Booksirens. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Chere Gruver · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Regency Romance set in Cornwall!

In this romance, we have a woman born and raised in a small village in Cornwall, along with a military man who served in Portugal and ended up married, just to have his wife leave him. When his wife dies, he learns of a child and ends up in Cornwall in an effort to hide his daughter from his wife’s family. Even though it doesn’t appear on the surface, both of these two are wounded and dealing with that pain in their own ways. This story is very well written, the plot is tight and there is the ubiquitous heartfelt sigh at the end. What more could be required of a romance?

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Tales Untangled · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored CHARMING THE CAPTAIN!

Genre: Sweet Romance, Historical Romance
Spice Level: Kissing
Tropes: Grumpy/Sunshine
Readability: Part of a series, but don't have to be read in order to understand

This book! It was so adorable to see how the captain changes. And the hardship of what the characters went through made his grumpiness understandable, and amazing how our charmer persevered. What a fun and light read. I've enjoyed the entire series.

I recommend this entire series and author. She's now on my auto-buy list because I've enjoyed her characters so much. Chef's kiss *

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Melissa]

Charming the Captain is actually… well, charming. I really liked this story and how the main characters are not perfect but they learn how to trust each other. Bronwyn is a great character. I laughed out loud several times when she goes off on one of her managing/tangents. The captain is a strong character who wants to know and protect his daughter. It is nice to see he comes around to seeing Bronwyn as an asset and not just some managing miss. Overall, this is a delightful, quick read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ande Wurnitsch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captain Marsh & Miss Kimbrell’s story: a slow burn romance that pops & sizzles with chemistry

Bronwyn finally has her own story and it’s one that is full of heart, humor & spunk! The narrative is so descriptive that it provides escape into a world that I don’t want to leave. Then, of course, there’s the swoon-worthy romance that is cultivated between Gabriel & Bronwyn. Ms. Smith has done it again! Thank you!

DISCLAIMER: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.