Far Grander than Paradise

by Barbara Blythe

Unconventional Zorinda Wemblish yearns for adventure and a life beyond her Norfolk, Virginia, home populated with narrow-minded people and a former suitor seeking to destroy her reputation.

Owner of one of the fastest clipper ships afloat, Captain Carris Trewellyn has two goals—make a profit and deliver his deceased brother’s children to their grandfather in the South Pacific as quickly as possible.

Zorinda’s and Carris’s worlds collide when his disobedient wards run away, seeking help from Zorinda, who is seeking passage to San Francisco. Once matters are sorted, Zorinda finds Captain Trewellyn intractable but aggravatingly attractive. Carris scorns attachment, although Zorinda is uncomfortably captivating. A mutual need to seek missing family members alters the course of their lives leading them to a South Pacific paradise. But the paradise hides deceit and betrayal, jeopardizing their faith—and their lives.

389 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 20, 2026

About the author

Barbara is a native Virginian and lives in Chesapeake with her husband of 28 years and their cat, Nefertiti. She and her husband attend the Methodist church right down the street, enjoying the fellowship provided by an active Sunday School class and a church family dedicated to serving the community. Barbara works full time for the local school system and in addition to writing, enjoys drawing, sewing for and collecting dolls.

Reviews

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Zorinda Wemblish and Captain Carris Trewellyn meet in an unusual way that involves Carris’s two sweet and rambunctious twins. Zorinda has received a lead as to her father’s whereabouts and she is determined to see if she can find him after he disappeared years earlier. You would think that a woman would not be up for the arduous journey nor the dangers that lie ahead of her, but Zorinda is much more capable than that. She is one stubborn, determined lady with a compassionate heart, both things guiding her decisions in searching for her father. Carris has been deeply wounded from things in his past and keeps his heart well guarded. I found it especially satisfying that through his interactions with Zorinda she rounds off the hardness and helps him to trust God and heal.

I enjoyed this high seas adventure that has danger, a faith journey, and romance. Readers of historical novels will find this interesting with its descriptions of the ships and the hazards encountered on the sea. The author’s notes were enlightening and should be read to provide further context for the story.

I received this book through Let’s Launch. I was not obligated to write a positive review.

CW- mention of prostitution, illegitimate children, opium

[Connie Saunders · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am so impressed by Barbara Blythe's creativity! I love the names of her two main characters, the exotic setting of a clipper sailing to the South Pacific in the mid 1800s, and the many historical details woven into her exciting plot. Zorinda Wemblish desires adventure, but she's blissfully unaware of what is ahead. An overbearing ship captain, young twins longing for family, and illegal drug trade can only mean one thing: something's gotta give!

I especially enjoyed the vibes between Zorinda and Captain Carris Trewellyn. Would their deep animosity turn into deeper emotions of another kind? Could Zorinda show the Captain that his energetic niece and nephew only needed love and assurance?

This new-to-me author kept me "swiping the screen" to see what was coming next. I was totally engaged with the romance, adventure, and history, but there was also an inspiring theme of forgiveness and redemption.

I received a complimentary digital ARC. There was no obligation for a positive review. I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts.

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Far Grander Than Paradise is an upcoming historical fiction novel that is set in the mid nineteenth century. If you are someone who is seeking a storry that has romance with a hint of advenure then this is one that you need to check out. This is the first time that I have read anything by this author so I will admit I was very impressed. I would also like to add that our FMC has the coolest first name as well.

We are introduced to Zorinda who longs for adventure away from the simple minded people of her town. She decides to book passage on a ship going to San Francisco. An encounter with the neice and nephew of the dashing Captain Carris makes the journey more interesting. However, the journey is filled with mystery and secrets will their blossoming friendship be able to withstand the storm?

[Taylor Veruchi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance copy of this book, the thoughts and opinions are my own.

I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I’m always skeptical when trying new to me authors, but this one was so good. This is the first book I have read of Barbara Blythe’s. And it did not disappoint, it left me wanting more!

I like the banter and the relationship that builds between Zorinda and Carris. Their unique attraction keeps you reading. And reminds that God works things together for good to those who love Him.

This book surprised me and kept me glued to the story. There is danger, intrigue and love that keeps you wanting more of the story. It’s got some surprises that I did not see coming. I will be recommending this book for sure.

[Jessica Turbiville · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Adventure on the high seas, family feuds, Chinese warriors, shipwrecks, love and redemption are just a few things to enjoy in this story. Zorinda's kindness and stubbornness are put to the test as she attempts to wrangle a set of mischievous twins and set their guardian straight.

I loved the adventure and couldn't put this book down. This was the first book that I have read by Barbara Blythe, but now I'm going to find her others!

I received an ARC from the author/publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Pam Fleming · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful historical fiction book set in the 19th century with a Christian slant. Great descriptions allow the reader to get a picture of the action.

Danger and romance on the high sea when ship captain Carris Trewellyn meets Zorinda Carris. The high seas are a challenge with storms, and ships with illegal cargos. Zorinda’s mixed heritage means she is not fully accepted in high society. Carris is temporarily in charge of his niece and nephew. Meanwhile Zorinda is searching for her father. Sailing together Zorinda and Carris face growing feelings, opium traders and angry Chinese soldiers. The couple has interesting banter that continues to develop as their relationship develops, plus the antics of the twins have people on their toes.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. Thos review is my honest opinion.

[Chris Blythe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was captivated by the writing and the complexity of the characters in this historical fiction. I felt as if I was transported back in time. I thoroughly enjoyed the book from beginning to end and would highly recommend this book.