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Brethren of the Coast #5

Captain Of Her Heart

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Brethren of the Coast Book 5

Lady Alexandra Seymour is going after her man. To make amends for a past deception, when she enlisted her connubial conquest’s aid in a scheme of hearts, she tells newly inducted Nautionnier Knight Jason Collingwood, “I will do anything.” But she ends up making his bed, instead of warming it. Still, Alex will not be discouraged, as she vows to meet and surpass his challenge, but will he meet hers?

When Alex arrives in Plymouth, Jason tries to resist the temptation she presents, but the highborn daughter of a duke will not be denied. As his storm-battered ship is refitted, he mends the rift in his relationship with the woman of his dreams, but war gets in the way, as duty calls. When Jason returns, six months later, hoping to surprise Alex with a proposal, he’s the one in for a shock, and he fears his lady may never again hold him as the captain of her heart.

326 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 14, 2014

57 people are currently reading
152 people want to read

About the author

Barbara Devlin

53 books516 followers
Barbara Devlin was born a storyteller. A Texan, through and through, Barbara hasn’t been without a book in her possession since she was in kindergarten. She wrote her first short story, a really cheesy murder-mystery, in high school, but it was a Christmas gift, a lovely little diary with a bronze lock, given to her in the fifth grade that truly inspired her love for writing.

After completing part of her undergraduate studies at the University of London, Barbara returned home and began a career in banking. But the late 80’s weren’t too promising for the financial industry, and every bank that hired Barbara soon folded. So she searched for a stable occupation, and the local police department offered the answer to her prayers.

Initially, Barbara wasn’t too sure about her new chosen career in law enforcement, but she soon came to love being a police officer. However, on an uncharacteristically cold and icy day in December 1998, Barbara was struck by a car and pinned against a guardrail while working an accident on a major highway. Permanently disabled, she retired from the police department and devoted her time and energy to physical therapy.

Once Barbara got back on her feet, she focused on a new career in academia. She earned an MA in English, continued on a course of study for a Doctorate in Literature and Rhetoric, started writing historical fiction in her spare time, and completed five full-length novels featuring her fictional knighthood, the Brethren of the Coast. Book six is currently in the works.

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5 stars
101 (43%)
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82 (35%)
3 stars
37 (15%)
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11 (4%)
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Tracy Emro.
2,130 reviews64 followers
March 11, 2022
Another entertaining offering by Ms. Devlin.

I made the mistake of assuming that Alex and Jason would be a very light easy read, considering their past relationship.

The story opens with Alex following Jason to Plymouth to try and get him to forgive her deception. They parted ways in the previous book in a very Gone With The Wind manner. Alex is determined to set things right between them and live happily ever after.

Jason is shocked to see Alex in his cottage and while he is still hurt by her deception, he still cares for her and still wants her, but he is not ready to marry her - he feels that now is not the time as the country is still at war and he is concerned about leaving her as a widow (Winner of the "Stupidest Excuse Ever" to not marry). When she offers to do "anything" to win his forgiveness, he uses the opportunity to scare his society miss back to London. Instead of the sexual services she expected him to request, he tells her that she can work as a maid.

Jason seriously underestimates Alex and she gives 100% into her tasks. Jason is finding it harder and harder to resist her. Finally he breaks and these two indulge in an all out sex-fest. Their affair lasts for weeks and when Alex finally broaches their future together and declares herself - Jason tells her point blank that he will not marry her and has been recalled to duty and will be gone for months. They part ways as they did before, with Alex delivering the same line to him that he gave to her in London.

Fast forward six months, Jason has returned from his mission and desires nothing more than to marry Alex. When they dock, he is a bit surprised by the cold reception he gets from the brethren wives and doesn't see Alex anywhere. He is told that she is in the country at her family home. Her brother Damian says he is going there and Jason asks to join him. On the way, he tells Damian that he wants to marry Alex and asks for his blessing.

When they arrive they are in for the shock of their lives and Alex wants nothing to do with Jason. Damian forces them to marry and barely restrains himself from killing Jason.

Thus starts their married life, Alex and Jason have a very long and rocky road to their HEA.

The writing in the book was very good, the story flowed nicely and had many very amusing moments as well as a lot of steamy love scenes (the scenes in this book were a bit more risqué than in the previous books - so if you are sensitive about that sort of thing - you have been warned.) This book could definitely be read as a stand alone title, but I would recommend reading the series in order.
Profile Image for Risha Crider.
39 reviews1 follower
November 14, 2014
Another breathtaking novel from Barbara Devlin! This 5th book in the series does not disappoint. The very first night of reading I stayed up until the wee hours of the morning as I could not put the book down. It is such an emotionally well written book when I finally managed to pry the kindle from my hands, I tried to fall asleep only to realize I had wept with Alex while reading the book and had a heavy heart. Barbara's ability to bring the emotions to reality in her book utterly amazes me. I sit on the edge of my seat awaiting the 6th book in this series and pray that she never quits writing as the world will be a much more lonely place without her stories to warm our hearts. Thank you Barbara for another truly wonderful book.
Profile Image for Ane Margaux.
136 reviews26 followers
December 22, 2014
I received this book through NetGalley for an honest review.

This was absolutely amazing. Barbara Devlin is quite the writer. This being my first experience with her writing I was quite excited because I've heard great things and I was not disappointed. She takes great care to make the reader feel as if they are in the scene with the character. Being able to feel what a character feel is the ultimate act of inclusion. It's like you are living and breathing the story. Praise for Barbara Devlin, I will most definitely read more of her work.
Profile Image for Cindy Woods.
1,058 reviews20 followers
August 18, 2017
Funny & cute

I have to say I really enjoy the comedic side of this book. Devlin uses humor well in her plots.
And the seriousness of rejection with its humiliation and hurt is done exceptionally well. Men can be such dolts when it comes to relationships. Alex is unapologetic in her desire for the captain.
I would recommend to readers of historical romance fiction.
Profile Image for Rae Latte.
1,342 reviews14 followers
November 15, 2014
In Captain of Her Heart, Book 5 of The Brethren of the Coast by Barbara Devlin we are once again at the mercy of the Naughty Knights and the woman who must claim them. Lady Alexandra “Alex” Seymour and Captain Jason Collingwood parted with harsh words after a love scheme went terribly wrong in Book 4. Poor Alex hasn’t heard from her Captain and is fearful she may have lost him forever. Determined to win his heart and right the wrongs that occurred, she sets out to surprise him at his home. Upon arrival, she discovers a cozy little home and lone maid which is not what she’s accustomed to or expected.

Once again she’s spinning tales of as she tells the housemaid she’s Captain Collingwood’s “sister” as she assessed where she should unload her belongings in the one-room house. Unwilling to surrender or disclose the truth she’s determined to show Jason that there is more to her than just the physical beauty that he seems to adore. Therefore she sets out to learn whatever tasks are necessary in managing a home and that includes cleaning, cooking and mending.

Unfortunately, when Alex took off no one knew where she was headed as the tales which she spun far from the truth as to her known whereabouts. The only reason she set off to find Jason was to confess her true feelings but somehow Alex winds up in a wicked and intoxicating reunion that will change her forever. How will he respond when he discovers her housekeeping skills and that she’s not the refined Lady he presumed her to be? Will he give in to his animalistic feelings and show her how he truly needs to be pleasured? It’s all about trust between them and unfortunately there are a few hiccups towards a happily ever after for these two!

While he assumes her intentions are without strings as he’s not ready or willing to commit to anything more, this sets off another chain of comical and sultry events. The ladies of The Brethren have warned Alex what will happen to her if she allows any man to become too familiar with her without a permanent commitment to her body and soul. Poor Alex has become entangled in a game where the rules keep changing and winning the game this time may actually cost her everything.

What happens next will change their lives forever as Jason discovers his new orders and sets course to sail. Has Jason finally found someone who will match him in every way? Will Alex realize that the best way to win at anything is to be honest and real without embellishing her given assets or convincing others to do the same? This book is super sexy hot! It will sizzle in your fingers beyond the previous books in this series! Be sure you are comfortable when you start this story as you won’t be getting off the couch till you finish!
Profile Image for Amber.
60 reviews
March 29, 2015
I love this series! This is the fifth installment of the Brethren of the Coast and the books keep getting better. This is Jason and Lady Alex's story. The previous book left unresolved issues with these two and Alex attempted to remedy the situation at the beginning of the story. I'm always impressed with how Devlin paints the scenery to make me feel as if I traveled back in time.

I was excited to read their story and all the challenges these two strong-minded characters presented. When the synopsis stated Alex was so stubborn, she proved to Jason that she was useful in his house and helped the housekeeper with daily chores, I knew this book would not disappoint! Their interactions were comical and the intimate scenes were very heated. This book gave me everything I wanted in a historical fiction. I am looking forward to reading more from Devlin.
350 reviews9 followers
April 10, 2015
Another gem.

I find myself once again thrilled at the latest installment of Brethren. So much that I find a lack of ways to express how enjoyable this volume is. Due to the extent of their involvement in Book 4 it was expected that Alex and Jason would be the two involved in number 5. That said, their journey is as the previous stories, truly their own. And I really would love to have Jason write poetry for me as I haven't laughed so hard since some of the scenes in Book 3!

My only concern is how truly clueless the men of the era seem to be.....it is a wonder any of them managed to procreate.

Profile Image for Ann Gonzalez.
1,500 reviews15 followers
January 9, 2016
Book 5 of Brethren of the Coast was just as captivating as the others. Barbara Devlin has amazing talent. Lady Alex and Captain Jason Collingwood strained their relationship in book #4 while helping Cara and Lance. This book is filled with ups and downs as they try to mend their relationship. It is hard to put the book down. This book gets a little more heated than the others. The passionate moments are very well written, but I wouldn't recommend it or the others in the series to those who prefer a clean romance. I am excited to move on to the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Cassidy O'Connor.
Author 63 books284 followers
October 7, 2015
I've read every book in this series and Barbara Devlin once again makes me fall in love with her characters. I love how to true to the period she writes but is also willing to play with her characters as well. Lady Alex is a strong willed woman who does not apologize for who she is, I envy her ability to go after what she wants. Jason falters a few times like most men do but you will enjoy his adventure to win back Alex's heart!
Profile Image for Lesia Chambliss.
222 reviews11 followers
July 19, 2015
A very enjoyable book from the Brethren of the Coast. I love all the books I've read in this series so far, and look forward to reading the rest. Barbara Devlin is an amazing writer with wonderful characters. I'll choose any Barbara Devlin book without reading the back. I know they will always be enjoyable.
Profile Image for londa.
1,506 reviews
December 30, 2014
the best one of the series. i loved Jason and alex. they were a fun couple in the earlier books. i really want to read about her brother and his best friend Blake. i guess i will have to wait awhile for that. i recommend. you probably should read in order so you know all the characters, it makes it a better read when that happens.
1,263 reviews27 followers
November 24, 2014
Choppy Love

This author was excellent at putting you into the life and times of the characters. The lady Alex will have you feeling for her all the way through. The captain will have you rolling the seas of this love with him as well. Well written.
251 reviews7 followers
September 15, 2018
A great love story with humor

This is a wonderful love story written with tongue in cheek sense of humor. It is the relationship of Alex and Jason, sometimes very tender, sweet, but at times just plain humorous, but never boring. Jason,at first very dense, but later so endearing. He tried so hard to make amends, but just could not seem to get it right. Alex, at times a very sweet, kind, sensual person, but at times you just want to shake her to wake her up to reality. She was very wronged, and left to face a tragic situation. I kept waiting for them to get back together, but I had to laugh so hard, in the meantime. But as they say, all’s well that ends well. I liked Alex and Jason so much. This is the best series. Ms. Devin never disappoints. I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Laura.
125 reviews1 follower
February 5, 2023
Another excellence story in the brethren of the coast series

Alex and Jason make a wonderful couple. I love Alex's bold pursuit of the captain of her heart. Their courtship was bumpy like the others in the series as it is often hard for men to say they love you. The ups and downs; laughter and tears is what makes the story so wonderful like all the others in the series.
8 reviews1 follower
December 17, 2019
I found this book extremely boring. I almost didn't finish it, but ended up skipping several pages along the way to speed it up and I missed nothing.
Profile Image for Bambi Fogleman.
172 reviews13 followers
November 15, 2014
Captain of her heart
Barbara Devlin
Brethren of the coast book 5

This series is a wonderful trip in history the love and strength of each character traps you in with their story and makes you love them all. Yet again I couldn’t put this book down as Barbara spun the tale of a lady out to capture the man she hurt and made him feel betrayed. Join Lady Alexandra Seymour as she goes to great lengths to find her captain. Only for him to break her spirit and heart get bound in the treasure of this book.
“In Shakespeare, it is known as the little death; but there are various names. “Jason caught the crease of her ear with his teeth. “Release, climax but heaven on earth is more apropos when it comes to you.”
Lady Alexandra Seymour‘s sister to the duke and one of the brother’s knights, She knows she has messed up with her captain. She never should have deceived him to help Cara get her man, and it cost her… her captain. Well there is only one thing to do… lie to everyone and find him. Once she gets to his rented cottage she realizes she may have made a mistake her captain isn’t titled or well off but a sailor that worked his way up the ranks.
Captain Jason Collenswood is the Captain of the breather ship the intrepid newest member to join there sea fining ranks. Honor was important maybe to important when it costs the one woman he wants…. his Alex. When she shows up he knows he needs to send her away but he just can’t. And when he is called for a 6 month deploy he refuses to make her a war widow like his own mother.
Oh how fates play there had and can there two every find what they have cost the others?
Can Jason earn his way back to be….
“The Captain Of Her Heart?”
Profile Image for Kat W.
615 reviews29 followers
November 12, 2015
So many boat innuendos. Lol. They were a humorous couple, but I'm not sure this is my kind of romance. Still, it had its moments and kept me entertained . Maybe I should have started from the beginning.
Profile Image for Jayne.
526 reviews11 followers
June 27, 2015
Although I've gotten a bit tired of these books this was a good story... when they were at Plymouth. When a marriage was enacted after he got her pregnant I think her character devolved somewhat. She stopped thinking and jumped to the wrong conclusion several times. When she hurt her husband with her baseless accusation I simply wanted to slap her. The woman in Plymouth was not the same that he married.

I was disappointed with the latter half of the story.
Profile Image for Jessica Parsons .
313 reviews7 followers
December 5, 2014
A great one by Barbara Devlin, Jason was a intriguing character to learn more about, Alex i wasn't as sure i liked her sometime but it was still a interesting storyline
Profile Image for Laura.
Author 10 books6 followers
December 27, 2014
A light, enjoyable read, but the situation at the beginning of the novel was a bit contrived and felt forced in places.
97 reviews
January 28, 2015
2.5 stars. I forced myself to finish this book, as the all too familiar theme (the H to declare his love to the h), was repeated in this book, which became boring to read again.
286 reviews
August 28, 2015
Though still pretty good, this is probably my least favorite of the series... 3.5 stars.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews

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