Captured by the Canadians

by Taccara Martin

I don’t come undone.
I manage. I plan. I keep moving.
I’m a Black woman. That’s what we do.

But when my car dies on a Canadian roadside on the way to a romance conference, panic hits before logic can catch up. I’m the one people call when things fall apart. I don’t know what to do when there’s no one to hand the problem to.

Then Eli shows up.
Too good to be true.
Book-boyfriend good.

Quiet. Observant. Built like he fixes problems with his hands instead of words. Skin so rich and carefully tended it makes a woman wonder what else he takes his time with.

So when he offers me a deal I can’t refuse—one week with no armor, in exchange for my tech brain solving a problem he can’t muscle through—I do something I’ve spent years avoiding.

I give in.
I let go.

But since Eli is the kind of man who doesn’t push. Doesn’t rush. He simply makes space and allows the quiet to invite you in. In that space, I remember what it feels like to stop bracing for impact.

I agreed to release my cape for one week.
I calculated the risk of staying.
What I didn’t calculate or account for was the cost of leaving.

From T.L. Martin, the author of The Black Wife Effect, comes a new story featuring the latest member of the Cockpit Chix. Maxine Palmer is about to watch her wildest dreams step off the page when a real-life hero rushes to her rescue.

Stranded / Forced Proximity | Blue Collar Hero (The "Fix-it" Man) | "Release the Cape" / Soft Life | Steminist Heroine ( Tech Brain) | Book Boyfriend Come to Life
Slow Burn & Emotional Safety

Genres: Romance

385 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 3, 2026

About the author

Taccara, widely known for her contemporary romance novels and award-winning fiction podcasts, has amassed a devoted following of over 100,000 readers and listeners alongside her husband, Kenyon, using the power of storytelling. A former relationship coach, she now effortlessly weaves lighthearted charm with brooding, complex heroes, crafting romances that delve into the shadowy depths of love while balancing humor and heart in perfect harmony.

Writing as T.L. Martin, award-winning author Taccara Martin immerses readers in the captivating world of dark romance—and occasionally, rom-coms featuring brooding, enigmatic men.

While staying true to the witty banter and deep emotional themes her readers love, she weaves in adventure, suspense, and an irresistible touch of spice.

Passionate about portraying healthy relationships, Taccara draws endless inspiration from her own love story. Married to her "forever book boyfriend," Kenyon, she credits the safety and security of their relationship as the wellspring of her creativity and romance-driven narratives.

To learn more about Taccara, explore her award-winning fiction podcasts, or sign up for her mailing list, visit TLMartinWrites.com.

Reviews

[Chanel · Rating 3 out of 5]

New to me Black author and I wasn't quite sure what I was getting into but the cover and description had me intrigued. Maxine is a bit of a tech nerd and has been fighting hackers at place of work for a time. She decides to take some PTO and go to Canada with one of her girlfriends to attend a romance book con. On the way there her friend backs out cause she's sick and Maxine ends up stranded in her car in a ditch. Eli was on his way home so he helps her and brings her to his home to stay temporarily. They end up agreeing to be in a fake relationship to boost his sustainability business and eventually fall in love.

The beginning was a little cringe at first but the story became cute for me once they were in their fake relationship. Eli was the type of man that wanted specific things in life and it didn't involve long term commitments. Maxine was a go with the flow girl; if that's what he wanted, she respected his boundaries. The chemistry was light overall and I thought her nickname for him (Bear) was cute. There were moments where conversations were juvenile considering the adults speaking and there were a lot of repetitive phrases throughout but it was a decent read overall.

['The Book Queen' · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read

I enjoyed this storyline. It was funny and cute.

[Anjosia · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an ARC reader, I devoured Captured by the Canadians by T. L. Martin in less than seven hours—and every single one of those hours was full of laughter, tears, smiles, and moments where I had to pause just to feel everything the story was giving. This book delivered the kind of healing my heart didn’t even know it needed.

Maxine “Max” Palmer, the FMC, is the oldest daughter. The dependable one. The one everyone relies on—friends, family, boss, mom, sister. She carries the invisible weight of responsibility, the one who doesn’t sleep, doesn’t take breaks, and keeps moving because someone always needs her to. The way T.L. Martin describes that invisible labor is painfully real. It’s a weight that so many Black women know intimately, and seeing it explored on the page felt powerful and validating.
Then there’s Eli, the MMC—another dependable soul. A man who feels deeply but only reveals the emotions he knows he can control. Watching these two interact is magnetic. The push and pull between Max and Eli—Little Mama and Bear—is electric. You can feel the balance of control shifting between them with every conversation, every silence, every moment of vulnerability. And neither of them wants to admit how much they need the other.

One line in particular broke me: “I bought into the lie that Black girls don’t get to inhabit their wildest dreams—that we simply have to build our own worlds and accept whatever fragments of a dream happen to drift our way.” When Max said this, I cried. Actual tears streaming down my face because… wow. That moment lands with such truth and weight that it’s impossible not to feel it.
Martin also does something beautiful with the world-building around Cinnamon Grove, weaving in familiar characters like Timantha, Anastasia, and Eslin. Their appearances feel like small windows into a larger universe, reminding readers how lives intersect and how each story adds another layer to a world that feels rich, lived-in, and deeply connected.

Captured by the Canadians is romantic, emotional, deeply affirming, and filled with characters who feel real enough to know. It’s about being seen. Being understood. Being held in a way that allows you to finally take off the super hero cape and put the armor down because sometimes being captured is exactly how you find freedom.

[Monique · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this story. It was funny, flirty, and lighthearted, while also touching on the weight of being the one who always has to hold it all together and what happens when you finally have a safe space to rest. Eli (“Bear”) couldn’t resist Max’s quirky charm from their very first encounter, and I loved watching them try (and fail) to fight it before realizing there was no point. Their pull toward each other felt easy and magnetic.

I especially appreciated that Bear was able to see past Max’s sassy, witty exterior and recognize that she needed quiet and stillness and all he wanted to do was be that space for her, even if only for a week. And through the gift of rest, her life was forever changed.

This book felt like it was written for the responsible girls, the quirky and nerdy girls, and the ones still waiting to find their book boyfriends.

The pacing was solid, and the writing flowed easily. I do wish the fake dating trope had been explored a bit more (it’s one of my favorites), but overall this was such an enjoyable read.

[Ashanti Burton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this. I have a hard time finding books with rom com energy but make it black. This was perfect even tho the mmc got on my nerves at some points. I would recommend.

[Camillia E · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been a fan since the BWE series and I've love getting to know more of the Cinnamon Grove residents.

I read this book in a day! I loved Max & Eli's story. From the first funny encounter to the beautiful ending, their journey had all of the ups & downs that pulled the reader in. I definitely wanted to shake some sense in them and other characters lol.

Now I'm debating if I should plan a trip to Toronto to find a rich "Bear". Now I'm looking forward to the next book.

[LaKeisha W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good contemporary romance! The private book box experience my bookclub offers (BWRT) made this read even more special and immersive, it truly elevated the story for me. Eli was everything a book boyfriend should be, and I loved the emotional safety and softness woven throughout. If contemporary romance isn’t your thing, this one may not hit the same.

[Short_stufs_life · Rating 1 out of 5]

Too cringe. I really wanted to like this but it took insta-like/love to the extreme. The FMC car got stuck in a ditch, the MMC offered to take her to a hotel, and she starts hitting on him before she could even make it to his car. One of the first things she said to him was "I may be small, but I've got a big ride for little boys!" Didn't even know his name, just spouting the most random and embarrassing things. Less than 12 hours later, the MMC is having internal struggles because he thinks he likes her too much, when probably 8 of those hours they were sleep in separate areas. I don't buy it. I stuck around until 42% then DNF. Unfortunately I saw an ad for this book a couple months ago and had been waiting for it to come out.

[Michéle · Rating 4 out of 5]

***I received an advanced copy for an honest review***

The cover! Actually all three covers! So magical. This was a perfect grumpy sunshine read with a smidge of fake dating. To begin, I'm so glad Max got her story and her happily ever after in the perfect for her way. the author does a great job of describing the Canadian scenery, including Eli's house & the both mom's residences. I now want to visit a place with similar architecture, foliage & now, maybe minus the elks. The "meet-cute" of Eli & Max was comical to say the least. And if its safe to assume, I think he fell first, and I love that. Adding the book boyfriend trope into the book for the book boyfriend was a cute touch. This showed that love can be messy yet soft, guarded yet beautiful. Love is also uniquely unexpected & unrecognizable. Eli & Max were perfect for each as they have so many people who "need" them worked on caring & burdening each other just for the week. Eli is a perfect book boyfriend. I wasn't expecting the villain & the cameos of the cockpit chicks was insightful. The banter was well written and I appreciate the character development of the side characters. If this becomes a series I can't wait to read more; specifically diving into Drake & Lara.

[GetLitWithRae · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me cracking up from the start! 😂

I absolutely loved Max. She’s a nerdy boss lady who carries so much and is always the one holding it together for everyone else. So when she finally broke down and let herself cry…yeah, that hit me hard. I wanted to cry right along with her. And Eli? Listen…his sanctuary sounds like pure peace and safety, and honestly? I need to visit. Preferably with Eli there. 👀😂

TL Martin does an amazing job with the setting. The scenery was described so vividly that I could picture everything — the breathtaking views, the calm, the beauty. I felt like I was right there.

The chemistry between Max and Eli was so good, and watching their relationship grow was beautiful. I was rooting for them from the beginning. And Eli? Top-tier book boyfriend. Swoon-worthy. No debate.

Also…Drake and Lara? I need more of them immediately. I’m hoping we get their story in a future book. 👀

Overall, I loved everything about this book — the characters, the setting, the story. I ate this up, and it was absolutely worth the 5⭐️ rating.

Now the real question is…do I need to move to Canada to find my own Eli?

Thanks to BookSprout & TL Martin for the arc. I am leaving an honest review!

[readandtellwithshantel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Captured by the Canadians
T.L. Martin

Maxine Palmer prides herself on being the most reliable person anyone could ask for. She’s been known to pivot at a moment’s notice. Her position in tech, forces her to be on high alert at all times.

When a brief trip to Canada grants her more than just relief that she so desperately needs, she takes the opportunity. While she thrives in organized chaos she begins to understand how much she deserves a moment of genuine comfort.

Eli Shaw is brooding, introverted and incredibly kind. His devotion to his career and the people that truly know him intimately is clear. He has developed boundaries that he thinks will keep him emotionally safe. When so much of his success is build on composure, Maxine’s presence poses a threat to any façade.

When the two of them are together, it gives them both chance to stop and enjoy the fullness of their emotions. If only temporarily, they both experience reciprocity in a way that isn’t elusive.

This novel in all it’s comedic glory is about self acceptance, accountability and forgiveness. It’s the permission to live in the fullness of your own essence.

#readandtellwithshantel #TLMartin

[Airicia Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captured by the Canadians was funny, emotional, and full of chemistry from the very beginning. The banter between Max and Eli made this story feel alive, and I found myself laughing out loud one minute and feeling all the tension the next.

Max is a strong, quick-witted heroine who doesn’t back down, and Eli is the perfect balance to her personality. He’s quiet, brooding, and protective, but also soft in ways that sneak up on you. Their forced proximity and enemies-to-lovers dynamic made the story addictive because you could feel the tension building between them the entire time.

What I really liked about this book was that it wasn’t just romance. It was about slowing down, healing, and finding love in unexpected places. The small-town setting, the humor, and the emotional moments made the story feel cozy but still spicy and exciting.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Delicate Rock · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 the only really laugh out loud moment was that Micheal Jackson line before the meet cute.

I got too much second hand embarrassment at the beginning. I was just never really feeling the fmc who is supposed to be this cool detached guy but he was more jerk than anything. And for someone who says he lets himself feel deeply he did the opposite and we never got to feel the comfort of the relationship whether fake or not as they brought it every other sentence. Usually fake dating or short arrangements trope at least let us believe these people are falling and being vulnerable but the fmc did that but the mmc was just so emotionally stunted even towards the end. His history of arrangements was never really explained which also gave me unease because we never really knew if he did anything different with the fmc which honestly it didn’t seem like it. They didn’t even sleep in the same bed. We never really got unique intimacy between MCs.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Captured by the Canadians! The story starts with two BFF Timantha and Maxian, who plan a girls' trip to Canada to attend their long-awaited book festival. Max faces a dilemma after Timantha cancels due to illness. Max decided to go alone. Who hasn’t dreamed of crossing borders to meet favorite authors—or even finding a real-life book boyfriend?

What follows is a dramatic turn of events. T.L. Martin balances the "dream vacation" feeling with a series of chaotic moments: an unexpected elk encounter, a car stuck in a ditch with no roadside assistance and no help in sight—at least, so Max thinks. It's then that "Bear," whose real name is Eli, appears. I won’t spoil anything, but if you enjoy stories about resilience, humor, and finding adventure when things go wrong, this is a must-read. Max is a real trooper, and the Canadian setting is both beautiful and challenging.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nikki J · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

I can definitely say that I got lost in this book. Taccara paints such a beautiful picture with her words. From the scenery, to Eli’s, his mom’s, and Max’s mom’s houses…I was able to see it all in my mind and feel all the feels.

The story though? Eli definitely had to grow on me. The dual POVs are extremely important in learning to love him.

On the other hand, I loved Max through and through. She almost made me want to choke her out towards the end of the book, but she saved herself.

I am normally a sucker for a good slow burn, and though this felt fast paced, the yearning was there. It was exactly what I needed to get out of my slump. I would definitely read this again just to feel like I’m back in Canada with Max!

[MB · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this up expecting a cute romance, but I didn’t expect to be laughing out loud from the very first page. The witty banter between Max and Eli is absolutely top-tier—their back-and-forth had me in stitches. Max’s 'smart-mouthed techie' energy is so relatable, and watching her 'I’ve got this' armor melt in the face of a rugged, quiet Canadian like Eli was just perfection.
It’s the ultimate fish-out-of-water story, but it’s got so much heart, too. One minute I was cracking up at the chaos of a car breakdown in the snowy woods, and the next, I was getting all the feels as Max finally found a soft place to land. If you want a book that is hilarious, steamy, and deeply touching, you need to read this immediately.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Catherine Ramirez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captured by the Canadians is an engaging start to the Captured series. The story quickly pulls the reader in with its intriguing premise and strong character dynamics, creating a romance that feels both exciting and emotionally engaging.

The characters have distinct personalities, and their interactions bring plenty of tension, chemistry, and memorable moments throughout the story. The pacing keeps the narrative moving smoothly, making it an easy and enjoyable read from beginning to end.

Readers who enjoy romance with strong character connections and a touch of adventure will likely find this book very entertaining. It’s a promising beginning to the series and leaves you curious about what will happen next.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Capri Ellis-Love · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bear and little mama

This book was really good. I did not picture this book being anything like this. Her being a cyber nerd tech and vacationing in Canada!!! Most girl’s vacation in Miami or Vegas, but Canada is very different. I like it though, it added more of (black folks do live in Canada too) feel. And you maybe able to find you a good strong man up there too.
How can I talk about this book without giving out the book 🤔
So I know it was hard for Eli to forgive his brother for what he did. I would have wrote my sister off and probably never speak to her again. But it does take a near death experience to bring folks back together. I’m also glad Max and her sister came to an understanding.
The book boyfriend came true for max, but I will let y’all read it to see how. **Happy Reading **

[Cara Woodham · Rating 4 out of 5]

T.L Martin is on my read immediately list and I still have so much I have to read from her. I received an ARC copy and I'm so happy to jump into this story. Max is working with Timantha so she does get a cameo appearance but this is Max and Eli's story. Max does have her own separate friend group. Max is a tech genius on her way to a book convention but incident after incident lead to her on the side of the road being saved by Eli. Max is the chaos I hope I am and has no filter. Since Max's book of choice is smut, she has no filter from the moment she meets Eli and he ever gets a very accurate to his personality nickname. I like seeing this romance unleash but I hated that Eli did not feel deserving of love. I need to dedicate some time to becoming familiar with all of T.L. Martin work. I'm surprised no body was "kidnapped"

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 1 of the Captured series. And a wonderful start it is! Look forward to more from this world.

'This isn’t just a hilarious fish-out-of-water tale. It’s a tender exploration of what happens when a strong woman finally finds a soft place to land.'

The characters drove the storyline and they were so very appealing and likeable and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cookie Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Certainly glad I kept up with this author. Really enjoyed this one. Great character development and plot line was sensible. The drama was believable but not overdone. There’s plenty of real depiction to family dynamics and the positive and negatives that come with it. I love the female main character being strong willed and capable of changing the MMC’s outlook on his personal experience in life and love. It was so plenty of jokes to start but I feel the progression wasn’t “forced” for them. She was true to herself and her life/career/wants and in the end, she got everything she could imagine.

[Catina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Funny and Sexy!

What can I say? Max was comedy gold! She was just what Eli needed and he was just the calm she needed. Loved the growth of the characters throughout the book. Siblings in this book WERE NOT my favorite, even though they made adjustments. Side eye in full effect. The mama's in this story were amazing. Let's not forget the supportive side characters. Their genuine love for Eli and Max was stellar. Lastly, loved the black excellence portrayed in this story. Overall this was a great read and I will be reading more from this author for sure!

[L.C. Son · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝑪𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒓! 🐻

Where do I begin? I adored this story! From start to finish. Eli + Max are one of the cutest grumpy x sunshine couples I’ve ever read. He truly is a bear. All growly and totally in love with his Lil Mama.

The book was a vibe. All of the callbacks from Martin to Coming to America—chef’s kiss! Enjoyed the family dynamics so much. Their banter was also fun to read.

This was my first read from this author but it will not be my last.

[Chaos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very lighthearted and a lot of fun. I love both Eli and Max. And I love how Eli recognized what Max needed. Sometimes love isnt loud and flashy but quiet and steady. Sometimes that is what is needed above all else. The stillness and the comfort. Max got everything she needed. She may not have realized at first but as the story went on, her realization hit her like a freight train!! It was hilarious to read but also spoke to me. I very much love this author

[Queenzamunda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I literally devoured this book in one day! This book was HULARIOUS! (I mean one of the titles of a chapter was “MAMA SAY, MAMA SAH, MAMA KOOSA!” Or Whatever the Hell That Michael Jackson Song Says”’ 😂😂😂) This book will resonates for the daughters who have to carry the burden of being the responsible one. The women who take care of everything and everybody without breaking a sweat and are so so so deserving of a love from a Bear that sees them, covers them and serves as a soft place to land!

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was hilarious. Max is so funny. It was nice seeing Timantha again too. The meet cute between Max and Eli is EVERYTHING. Max is a fool, flirting with that man like that and Eli definitely is strong to be able to resist. They're coming together didn't feel rushed even though they only knew each other for a week. I hope to see more of them in other books.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ladi Kreyol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness this was so beautiful. I laughed. I cried. I felt seen in the current moment I am in. I loved Eli so much for the “bear” necessity that he was for Max. I loved Max for all the softness she got to experience. For every nerd girl deserving of finding her bear, this is a book that will you when it finds you.

[Toyia Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am just in love with Eli and Max

OMG. The book boyfriend came to life and the love hit Max so hard. Eli really came through and I absolutely adored how he took care of her. Max is a strong intelligent woman who found love beyond her normal boarders. This book was so good that I am left wanting more.

[ShicaSheek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captured By the Canadians did not disappoint! This book is funny, emotional, romantic, and deeply satisfying.

From their hilarious first interaction to the satisfying ending, Max and Eli’s story gives you all the emotional highs and lows that make a romance addictive.
Max has absolutely no filter and makes 0 apologies about it; and I loved every minute of it. 😂 Eli, in all his lumberjack glory, was in full denial mode. Like sir… be for real! Watching that man get worn down was incredibly satisfying.

And the group chat with the crew Timantha and Eslin was pure comedy! Those moments had me laughing out loud and added such a fun dynamic.

If you’re thinking about reading this book, let me make it easy for you: DO IT! You will not regret it.

OK, bye! I’m off to find me a "Bear” 😉

[Janine Amundson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you haven’t read any of her books, why not?! This wasn’t her typical billionaire romance. It was down to earth, simple, but with smothering intensity! She continually offers uniqueness with some sex:)