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The Pirate Captain's Bargain
Will
I’ve spent my whole life in service to others. The Davenport children are the closest thing I have to family, so when our ship is attacked by a notoriously cutthroat pirate captain, I do what I must to protect them. Pirates are known for cruelty, and I refuse to leave the girls at the mercy of criminals. So I make the captain a deal: in exchange for information worth a fortune, he’ll see the children returned safely to their father untouched.
I expect that to be the end of it. Instead, the captain offers me a place aboard his ship as his cabin boy so I can remain with my charges until they’re returned home. He thinks he’s demanding my servitude. He doesn’t realize he’s handing me my freedom.
Damon
When we overtake a merchant ship in the Caribbean, I expect cargo worth stealing and little else. Instead, I find a manservant standing between my crew and his charges with a spine of steel and damned carving knife for protection.
Most men would beg for mercy.
Will negotiates.
Amused by his boldness—and intrigued despite myself—I offer him a position aboard my ship. Serve as my cabin boy, and he can remain at the children’s side until I collect their ransom and return them home.
It should’ve been a simple arrangement.
Then Will steps aboard my ship… and proves far too bold, stubborn, and spirited to remain just a simple cabin boy.
I’ve spent my whole life in service to others. The Davenport children are the closest thing I have to family, so when our ship is attacked by a notoriously cutthroat pirate captain, I do what I must to protect them. Pirates are known for cruelty, and I refuse to leave the girls at the mercy of criminals. So I make the captain a deal: in exchange for information worth a fortune, he’ll see the children returned safely to their father untouched.
I expect that to be the end of it. Instead, the captain offers me a place aboard his ship as his cabin boy so I can remain with my charges until they’re returned home. He thinks he’s demanding my servitude. He doesn’t realize he’s handing me my freedom.
Damon
When we overtake a merchant ship in the Caribbean, I expect cargo worth stealing and little else. Instead, I find a manservant standing between my crew and his charges with a spine of steel and damned carving knife for protection.
Most men would beg for mercy.
Will negotiates.
Amused by his boldness—and intrigued despite myself—I offer him a position aboard my ship. Serve as my cabin boy, and he can remain at the children’s side until I collect their ransom and return them home.
It should’ve been a simple arrangement.
Then Will steps aboard my ship… and proves far too bold, stubborn, and spirited to remain just a simple cabin boy.
198 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
July 27, 2026
Amy Padilla to Keira Andrews: “hey, can I copy your homework?”
Keira: “sure, but don’t be obvious about it”
So, if you read «Kidnapped by the pirate» you pretty much read this one as well. Not as good as Keira’s version but I still enjoyed it🏴☠️💕
Keira: “sure, but don’t be obvious about it”
So, if you read «Kidnapped by the pirate» you pretty much read this one as well. Not as good as Keira’s version but I still enjoyed it🏴☠️💕
July 20, 2026
5*
One of the best and most entertaining reads of 2026.
It's true that my love for cliché pirate stories definitely contributed to my enjoyment, but they have to be done in exactly the right way for me. This book met all of my expectations and then some.
Will and Damon were fantastic main characters. I loved their banter, and I actually appreciated that Will wasn't a nobleman. I also liked that the characters had clearly defined personalities, and the story developed naturally through those personalities rather than relying on sudden or unrealistic shifts.
I really appreciated that we got to know the supporting characters as well. They, too, had distinct personalities and added a great deal to the story. Overall, I absolutely, absolutely loved this book.
It is definitely one of those books that I know I'll reread in the future!
One of the best and most entertaining reads of 2026.
It's true that my love for cliché pirate stories definitely contributed to my enjoyment, but they have to be done in exactly the right way for me. This book met all of my expectations and then some.
Will and Damon were fantastic main characters. I loved their banter, and I actually appreciated that Will wasn't a nobleman. I also liked that the characters had clearly defined personalities, and the story developed naturally through those personalities rather than relying on sudden or unrealistic shifts.
I really appreciated that we got to know the supporting characters as well. They, too, had distinct personalities and added a great deal to the story. Overall, I absolutely, absolutely loved this book.
It is definitely one of those books that I know I'll reread in the future!
June 18, 2026
This was so fun! I loved all the characters. Even the annoying one added to the story. It progressed well, and the chemistry was built up perfectly. There was enough action to keep me hooked while still focusing on character growth. I have nothing negative to say. 10/10 would recommend.
July 10, 2026
Fun!
July 11, 2026
I absolutely love Amy Padilla's books and devour them within a day or two. So grateful that she provided me with an advanced readers copy of this one in exchange for my honest review. Usually she writes paranormal and sweet, not so savage barbarian MM romances, but when I saw she wrote an MM Pirate story, I was beyond intrigued! I pictured a 17th century era background with swashbuckling, frilly shirts and sea shanty singing antics. Well, I wasn't too far off.
We have one of our MC, 24 year old William aka Will, who is in servitude to the Davenport household, specifically to the eldest child, Governor Davenport's son and heir Henry. When the Governor decides to move his family from England to Port Antonio Island, he sails ahead and later sends for his children, which includes his two young daughters, Jane (15) and Daisy (7). As they sail off on a merchant ship, Will keeps an eye on the girls and tries his best to entertain the PITA Henry, while the Captain puts him to work.
Then, about a month or so, they're seen by pirates! Not just any pirates, but The Devil's Revenge who's Captain is the infamously known Sea Wolf! Aka Damon. I would be pooping my pants at this point, but Will is a G (G is for gangsta for those who don't know), as soon as he heard this captain wanted to surrender. Plainly said, he reported that once the Sea Wolf found out the Davenport children were on board, he would either rape or murder them. Will didn't care about Henry but he refused to let anything happen to the girls.
He was determined to keep them safe by informing the Sea Wolf that returning Gov. Davenport's children, specifically the heir Henry, that he would pay him a handsome reward, only if they were brought back to him safely. Damon isn't stupid and is convinced that's a better idea. He gets his sailors to plunder everything off the merchant ship, including Will, who he now sees as an asset.
What happens next is.. something you have to read for yourself! But like I said in the beginning, it's swashbuckling good fun! Of course, there's some MM romance.. for what it is. After all, the Captain is the villainous Sea Wolf. There's no hearts and flowers here. There is however, plenty of action, making me want to read more Pirate MM books but I'm convinced none of them would be as good as this one. For now, I'll just wait for Amy's next book! 5⭐
We have one of our MC, 24 year old William aka Will, who is in servitude to the Davenport household, specifically to the eldest child, Governor Davenport's son and heir Henry. When the Governor decides to move his family from England to Port Antonio Island, he sails ahead and later sends for his children, which includes his two young daughters, Jane (15) and Daisy (7). As they sail off on a merchant ship, Will keeps an eye on the girls and tries his best to entertain the PITA Henry, while the Captain puts him to work.
Then, about a month or so, they're seen by pirates! Not just any pirates, but The Devil's Revenge who's Captain is the infamously known Sea Wolf! Aka Damon. I would be pooping my pants at this point, but Will is a G (G is for gangsta for those who don't know), as soon as he heard this captain wanted to surrender. Plainly said, he reported that once the Sea Wolf found out the Davenport children were on board, he would either rape or murder them. Will didn't care about Henry but he refused to let anything happen to the girls.
He was determined to keep them safe by informing the Sea Wolf that returning Gov. Davenport's children, specifically the heir Henry, that he would pay him a handsome reward, only if they were brought back to him safely. Damon isn't stupid and is convinced that's a better idea. He gets his sailors to plunder everything off the merchant ship, including Will, who he now sees as an asset.
What happens next is.. something you have to read for yourself! But like I said in the beginning, it's swashbuckling good fun! Of course, there's some MM romance.. for what it is. After all, the Captain is the villainous Sea Wolf. There's no hearts and flowers here. There is however, plenty of action, making me want to read more Pirate MM books but I'm convinced none of them would be as good as this one. For now, I'll just wait for Amy's next book! 5⭐
July 8, 2026
Cute but not my favorite Amy Padilla book. I feel like the transition from “heartless pirate” to “doting lover” was a bit abrupt and I also feel like the pirates were a bit too wicked for it to be believable that our young MC would fall in love with one without even a conversation about “how about you murder fewer people for money?”
July 28, 2026
I love Will.
July 21, 2026
Very fun pirate shenanigans on the high seas! I didn’t fully love the romance, but, the things I didn’t love also made it probably more authentic, soooo. Yeah. But still!
MC Will is a what feels like an indentured manservant to an utter brat who is now 21, and his two sisters, 15 and…9? Something like that. He’s a virgin, gay witout really acknowledging it in a milieu in which homophobia is ripe and all around. So he doen’t think about that. Much. He’s escorting them to America for their father when the ship is captured by pirates and Will and his charges are taken prisoner.
Well, the charges are. Will is nearly murdered just for being protective. (Problem one. It’s never acknowledged that the other MC nearly killed Will just to be ruthless, like, they never would have known each other/Will was a throwaway human being to Damon. Just…never comes up. WHAT. )
MC Damon is a ruthless pirate captain, a gay man in a situation in which no one cares about sexuality, it’s all about the next capture and spoils. Which was refreshing!
Will’s moral code is so strong, he goes all out to protect his utter shit of a “master”, the spoiled brat 21 year old, and the two sweet sisters, protecting them from being killed and raped at the risk of dying himself (no one appreciates his bravery apart from the two sisters). He’s wonderful and I loved being in his head.
Damon I struggled with. He eventually sees Will’s worth, and desires him, but, he just kills people without thinking about whether they have value, or could even help him, that seemed short-sighted and unworthy of a hero, and he didn’t seem worthy of Will. He treats him like disposable garbage for too long, enjoys ordering him around and putting him in his place, and it made it hard to see them as equals for too long. He had to appear strong in front of everyone, but, I questioned his judgement about killing willy nilly, and as noted, it never occurs to him that by his own orders he almost never got to know Will at all. There’s a decided lack of self-reflection on that that soured their connection for me. No remorse.
Otherwise, the romance was fun, forbidden, hot, verges on non-con but poor virgin Will becomes so lusty it kind of isn’t. Plot beats are at times OTT unbelievable, but just suspend disbelief and have fun with it.
There are a few attempted SAs, two of Will, one of the 15 year old sister; all are ultimately handled satisfactorily, aka bloodily. 😁
The ending felt rushed, and contrived in how it worked out, but, it was fun, so, 🤷♀️.
I did not like the attitude toward sex workers. Damon and Will/all men saw them as whores rather than humans who might not have wanted to wind up doing what they do. Realistic for the time, but, it was aggravating for heroes/everyone to see them as things to be used and not as people. I'm just sick and tired of all the misogyny in my fake worlds and the real one.
Mostly it’s high-seas shenanigans, sex, and one-uppancing that entertains and keeps the pages turning.
HEA (though, who knows how long they’ll survive in this lifestyle?! 🧐). Captor-captive pirate romance. No OM action; Will is a virgin, and Damon isn’t interested in anyone else once Will is on his radar, though he/the crew go to pubs adjacent to brothels. OM drama from the spoiled brat who thinks of Will as “his” and tries it on at one point. Safe for me! Recommended.
MC Will is a what feels like an indentured manservant to an utter brat who is now 21, and his two sisters, 15 and…9? Something like that. He’s a virgin, gay witout really acknowledging it in a milieu in which homophobia is ripe and all around. So he doen’t think about that. Much. He’s escorting them to America for their father when the ship is captured by pirates and Will and his charges are taken prisoner.
Well, the charges are. Will is nearly murdered just for being protective. (Problem one. It’s never acknowledged that the other MC nearly killed Will just to be ruthless, like, they never would have known each other/Will was a throwaway human being to Damon. Just…never comes up. WHAT. )
MC Damon is a ruthless pirate captain, a gay man in a situation in which no one cares about sexuality, it’s all about the next capture and spoils. Which was refreshing!
Will’s moral code is so strong, he goes all out to protect his utter shit of a “master”, the spoiled brat 21 year old, and the two sweet sisters, protecting them from being killed and raped at the risk of dying himself (no one appreciates his bravery apart from the two sisters). He’s wonderful and I loved being in his head.
Damon I struggled with. He eventually sees Will’s worth, and desires him, but, he just kills people without thinking about whether they have value, or could even help him, that seemed short-sighted and unworthy of a hero, and he didn’t seem worthy of Will. He treats him like disposable garbage for too long, enjoys ordering him around and putting him in his place, and it made it hard to see them as equals for too long. He had to appear strong in front of everyone, but, I questioned his judgement about killing willy nilly, and as noted, it never occurs to him that by his own orders he almost never got to know Will at all. There’s a decided lack of self-reflection on that that soured their connection for me. No remorse.
Otherwise, the romance was fun, forbidden, hot, verges on non-con but poor virgin Will becomes so lusty it kind of isn’t. Plot beats are at times OTT unbelievable, but just suspend disbelief and have fun with it.
There are a few attempted SAs, two of Will, one of the 15 year old sister; all are ultimately handled satisfactorily, aka bloodily. 😁
The ending felt rushed, and contrived in how it worked out, but, it was fun, so, 🤷♀️.
I did not like the attitude toward sex workers. Damon and Will/all men saw them as whores rather than humans who might not have wanted to wind up doing what they do. Realistic for the time, but, it was aggravating for heroes/everyone to see them as things to be used and not as people. I'm just sick and tired of all the misogyny in my fake worlds and the real one.
Mostly it’s high-seas shenanigans, sex, and one-uppancing that entertains and keeps the pages turning.
HEA (though, who knows how long they’ll survive in this lifestyle?! 🧐). Captor-captive pirate romance. No OM action; Will is a virgin, and Damon isn’t interested in anyone else once Will is on his radar, though he/the crew go to pubs adjacent to brothels. OM drama from the spoiled brat who thinks of Will as “his” and tries it on at one point. Safe for me! Recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Here's Amy Padilla's latest: "The Pirate Captain's Bargain."
["Will
I’ve spent my whole life in service to others. The Davenport children are the closest thing I have to family, so when our ship is attacked by a notoriously cutthroat pirate captain, I do what I must to protect them. Pirates are known for cruelty, and I refuse to leave the girls at the mercy of criminals. So I make the captain a deal: in exchange for information worth a fortune, he’ll see the children returned safely to their father untouched.
I expect that to be the end of it. Instead, the captain offers me a place aboard his ship as his cabin boy so I can remain with my charges until they’re returned home. He thinks he’s demanding my servitude. He doesn’t realize he’s handing me my freedom.
Damon
When we overtake a merchant ship in the Caribbean, I expect cargo worth stealing and little else. Instead, I find a manservant standing between my crew and his charges with a spine of steel and damned carving knife for protection.
Most men would beg for mercy.
Will negotiates.
Amused by his boldness—and intrigued despite myself—I offer him a position aboard my ship. Serve as my cabin boy, and he can remain at the children’s side until I collect their ransom and return them home.
It should’ve been a simple arrangement.
Then Will steps aboard my ship… and proves far too bold, stubborn, and spirited to remain just a simple cabin boy."]
Who DOESN'T love a good pirate book? With some angst and protectiveness and mutual pining and sly sweetness and smexy times?!? This is all of that and more. Plus a visit or two to Tortuga. ;)
The pirates were ruthless and cruel at first, but as Will got to know them, as we got to know them, they were big softies. A found family of mismatched, once-lost men. Who welcomed Will into their folds and taught him how to actually take care of himself and his charges. Who made him feel safe..eventually. Who gave him his freedom and a purpose and a home.
#thepiratecaptain'sbargain #amypadilla #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["Will
I’ve spent my whole life in service to others. The Davenport children are the closest thing I have to family, so when our ship is attacked by a notoriously cutthroat pirate captain, I do what I must to protect them. Pirates are known for cruelty, and I refuse to leave the girls at the mercy of criminals. So I make the captain a deal: in exchange for information worth a fortune, he’ll see the children returned safely to their father untouched.
I expect that to be the end of it. Instead, the captain offers me a place aboard his ship as his cabin boy so I can remain with my charges until they’re returned home. He thinks he’s demanding my servitude. He doesn’t realize he’s handing me my freedom.
Damon
When we overtake a merchant ship in the Caribbean, I expect cargo worth stealing and little else. Instead, I find a manservant standing between my crew and his charges with a spine of steel and damned carving knife for protection.
Most men would beg for mercy.
Will negotiates.
Amused by his boldness—and intrigued despite myself—I offer him a position aboard my ship. Serve as my cabin boy, and he can remain at the children’s side until I collect their ransom and return them home.
It should’ve been a simple arrangement.
Then Will steps aboard my ship… and proves far too bold, stubborn, and spirited to remain just a simple cabin boy."]
Who DOESN'T love a good pirate book? With some angst and protectiveness and mutual pining and sly sweetness and smexy times?!? This is all of that and more. Plus a visit or two to Tortuga. ;)
The pirates were ruthless and cruel at first, but as Will got to know them, as we got to know them, they were big softies. A found family of mismatched, once-lost men. Who welcomed Will into their folds and taught him how to actually take care of himself and his charges. Who made him feel safe..eventually. Who gave him his freedom and a purpose and a home.
#thepiratecaptain'sbargain #amypadilla #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
July 27, 2026
Author Amy Padilla writes fluffy paranormal romance. I’ve read all of her books and can attest to this. I didn’t have it on my bingo card that she would write a pirate or alien book this year. More fun for us!
Will is a manservant to a spoiled man child. He takes care of him and receives his punishments, all while longing for something different. He loves the girls though and would anything to protect Jane and Daisy.
When the Sea Wolf boards a merchant ship, he wasn’t looking for anything more than a payout. What he found was a bold and brash young man looking to protect his charges. What’s a pirate to do? He takes them aboard to ransom the kids to their father.
This story is so, I’m fumbling for words. It is angsty but not super high angst. It is action packed while also entertaining. There is caring, jealousy, danger, and steamy heat all wrapped up in a bow for us to enjoy. The pace of Will and Damon’s relationship works well with the adventure of the ship. The ship’s crew are fun and the way they learn to care for Will is like a group of older siblings letting the baby join them. I’m not sure there is a book Amy Padilla could write that I wouldn’t enjoy. We left the magical world behind for a little bit and found a romantic pirate adventure to sustain us.
Will is a manservant to a spoiled man child. He takes care of him and receives his punishments, all while longing for something different. He loves the girls though and would anything to protect Jane and Daisy.
When the Sea Wolf boards a merchant ship, he wasn’t looking for anything more than a payout. What he found was a bold and brash young man looking to protect his charges. What’s a pirate to do? He takes them aboard to ransom the kids to their father.
This story is so, I’m fumbling for words. It is angsty but not super high angst. It is action packed while also entertaining. There is caring, jealousy, danger, and steamy heat all wrapped up in a bow for us to enjoy. The pace of Will and Damon’s relationship works well with the adventure of the ship. The ship’s crew are fun and the way they learn to care for Will is like a group of older siblings letting the baby join them. I’m not sure there is a book Amy Padilla could write that I wouldn’t enjoy. We left the magical world behind for a little bit and found a romantic pirate adventure to sustain us.
July 8, 2026
Great swashbuckling adventure
A departure from Amy's demons, supernaturals and barbarians series, and a fine addition to her canon.
The blurb tells you exactly what you're getting but doesn't convey quite how much fun Amy has with these characters. Will is smart, determined, and more than capable of standing up to the handsome pirate captain who has more heart than you'd expect. Damon is... well, can we say 'Captain Jack'? He's definitely a pirate but has his own code, a devilish smile, and a good heart that he hides well.
There are some pirates that are at all like Damon so it's not all sunshine and rainbows, but that's what makes the story even better. Read the trigger warnings if you there is anything you would prefer to avoid.
The only thing that I would have loved to see was the two girls deciding they wanted to stay with Will, rather than living on dry land with their father and brother. I think they'd be much happier on board the Devil's Revenge!
A departure from Amy's demons, supernaturals and barbarians series, and a fine addition to her canon.
The blurb tells you exactly what you're getting but doesn't convey quite how much fun Amy has with these characters. Will is smart, determined, and more than capable of standing up to the handsome pirate captain who has more heart than you'd expect. Damon is... well, can we say 'Captain Jack'? He's definitely a pirate but has his own code, a devilish smile, and a good heart that he hides well.
There are some pirates that are at all like Damon so it's not all sunshine and rainbows, but that's what makes the story even better. Read the trigger warnings if you there is anything you would prefer to avoid.
The only thing that I would have loved to see was the two girls deciding they wanted to stay with Will, rather than living on dry land with their father and brother. I think they'd be much happier on board the Devil's Revenge!
July 9, 2026
Couldn’t Put This Book Down!
Here we have a very interesting story. A pirate and a manservant, Will and Damon. Escorting his charges from England to Port Antonio Will wonders if he will ever get out of servitude. Well it doesn’t take him long to find out when the Merchant ship he is on is raided by Pirates. Not just any pirate 🏴☠️ but the Sea Wolf. Damon is notorious for his actions on and off the sea. He takes what he wants whether people like it or not. When he and his crew raid a merchant ship Damon was not expecting to find the Governor Davenport’s children and their manservant. Damon notices Will right away. The boy has spirit and it draws Damon in. It’s a thrilling Pirate Story!
This story is full of snark, actions, spiciness, and deception. The author has done a fantastic job in this riveting story. It gets the Stars 🌟 it deserves, 5! This book will keep you going without wanting to put it down. 🥰💜❤️❤️🔥
Here we have a very interesting story. A pirate and a manservant, Will and Damon. Escorting his charges from England to Port Antonio Will wonders if he will ever get out of servitude. Well it doesn’t take him long to find out when the Merchant ship he is on is raided by Pirates. Not just any pirate 🏴☠️ but the Sea Wolf. Damon is notorious for his actions on and off the sea. He takes what he wants whether people like it or not. When he and his crew raid a merchant ship Damon was not expecting to find the Governor Davenport’s children and their manservant. Damon notices Will right away. The boy has spirit and it draws Damon in. It’s a thrilling Pirate Story!
This story is full of snark, actions, spiciness, and deception. The author has done a fantastic job in this riveting story. It gets the Stars 🌟 it deserves, 5! This book will keep you going without wanting to put it down. 🥰💜❤️❤️🔥
July 12, 2026
A fun new book
This was a fun book that has a similar vibe to the barbarian series. Will is not in a great position when he meets Damon - he's in servitude and though he truly cares for two of the girls from the family he is indentured to the heir is a total waste of space. Add to that he has to worry about a pirate who poses a real risk to those girls and he's in a terrible position. Similar to the barbarian series, Will's trapped position soon turns for the better with a much more amenable Damon. I will admit, this wasn't my favourite Padilla book but it was still a fun read. I think the only thing that didn't quite work for me was the swift change in attitude of Damon from ruthless pirate captain to doting lover. The whole concept though was fun and it was a read that had a good vibe generally.
This was a fun book that has a similar vibe to the barbarian series. Will is not in a great position when he meets Damon - he's in servitude and though he truly cares for two of the girls from the family he is indentured to the heir is a total waste of space. Add to that he has to worry about a pirate who poses a real risk to those girls and he's in a terrible position. Similar to the barbarian series, Will's trapped position soon turns for the better with a much more amenable Damon. I will admit, this wasn't my favourite Padilla book but it was still a fun read. I think the only thing that didn't quite work for me was the swift change in attitude of Damon from ruthless pirate captain to doting lover. The whole concept though was fun and it was a read that had a good vibe generally.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars!
I really like Amy Padilla's stories, and this one was no exception. It is separate from her other series, so I wasn't sure what to expect. For me, the story had a really good flow to it. In fact, I stayed up late to finish it. I found Will's personality growth, as he tested his freedom from subservience, to contain high levels of humorous snark. I think my only concern was how much time was passing (or not passing). Although this is called a standalone, the ending almost felt like it could be a hint to their next adventure. With Will's new boldness, I would definitely enjoy reading more of Will and Damon's exploits, if the author decides to continue in this world.
I noted maybe 3 or 4 proofreading issues in the ARC.
I really like Amy Padilla's stories, and this one was no exception. It is separate from her other series, so I wasn't sure what to expect. For me, the story had a really good flow to it. In fact, I stayed up late to finish it. I found Will's personality growth, as he tested his freedom from subservience, to contain high levels of humorous snark. I think my only concern was how much time was passing (or not passing). Although this is called a standalone, the ending almost felt like it could be a hint to their next adventure. With Will's new boldness, I would definitely enjoy reading more of Will and Damon's exploits, if the author decides to continue in this world.
I noted maybe 3 or 4 proofreading issues in the ARC.
July 10, 2026
This is the first pirates book where they aren't secretly noble or good or misunderstood. They are pirates, their job is to board ships and steal their cargo.
So, in my opinion this is very near dark romance, our lovely William is being seduced by Damon to the dark side, not the one you are thinking, but Damon tries him again and again in order to see if he is losing his nobleness and starts to value more his freedom and being more selfish.
Don't go searching for redemption, this is not about that, this is how to become a pirate and reap all the benefits a sexy captain can bestow you.
Well written, with good rhythm and interesting characters, this was a very good read and I really enjoyed it. And the last couple of paragraphs were so funny and made me wish for a chapter more.
So, in my opinion this is very near dark romance, our lovely William is being seduced by Damon to the dark side, not the one you are thinking, but Damon tries him again and again in order to see if he is losing his nobleness and starts to value more his freedom and being more selfish.
Don't go searching for redemption, this is not about that, this is how to become a pirate and reap all the benefits a sexy captain can bestow you.
Well written, with good rhythm and interesting characters, this was a very good read and I really enjoyed it. And the last couple of paragraphs were so funny and made me wish for a chapter more.
July 15, 2026
I really LOVE Amy Padillas books and “The Pirate Captain’s Bargain” was no different!! It had everything I was hoping for—pirates, adventure, danger, and a romance that slowly sneaks up on you. Will was such a fantastic main character. I loved how brave and determined he was, always putting the people he cared about first, but still standing his ground no matter who he was facing. Damon was exactly the kind of pirate captain I love reading about: tough, commanding, and impossible not to fall for once his softer side started to show. Their back-and-forth was so much fun, and watching their relationship grow from an unexpected bargain into something real felt completely natural. The mix of action, humor, and sweet moments kept me turning the pages, and I finished it definitely wanting more!
July 15, 2026
A fun romp about an honorable and resourceful servant who finds freedom at sea with a pirate captain. I knocked off a star for anachronisms. The Captain describes a (very annoying) character as a "pissant" on almost every page on which the character appears. According to the OED, while "pissant" as a name for a stinky species of insect dates to the 1600s, the first recorded use of it as an insult for a person is from 1903. Now, sometimes the OED gets the first use wrong, and first oral use of course occurs before first written use, but for a book that takes place in the early to mid 1700s it feels like a stretch. Similarly, "precum" and "blowjob" are both twentieth century terms. Finally, these people are British but they say "ass," not "arse."
July 20, 2026
Will, our not so timid manservant and Damon, the dreaded Sea Wolf are a what might seem at first glance as opposites attract, but in fact they are both fierce, determined, smart, and just a little tricky.
Damon is instantly intrigued by Will's backbone and chivalrous nature while Will discovers he's really into the dashing, grumpy bad boy type! The crew is a nice selection of found family and mostly queer normative pirates. (CW for some bigots/slurs/casual homophobia)
If you liked Pirates of the Caribbean, but wished it was more queer? Then you'll likely enjoy this read. It's got pirates, hostages, twists and turns, and a dashing feathered hat.
*Advanced reader. thoughts and opinions my own*
Damon is instantly intrigued by Will's backbone and chivalrous nature while Will discovers he's really into the dashing, grumpy bad boy type! The crew is a nice selection of found family and mostly queer normative pirates. (CW for some bigots/slurs/casual homophobia)
If you liked Pirates of the Caribbean, but wished it was more queer? Then you'll likely enjoy this read. It's got pirates, hostages, twists and turns, and a dashing feathered hat.
*Advanced reader. thoughts and opinions my own*
July 22, 2026
Will on a journey across the ocean with his employer children when suddenly he's is raided by pirates. Damon the Sea Wolf plans to ransom off the children to their father but is taking a interesting in the braty manservant turned cabin boy.
Loved the simple story layed out for us for a short book it's good to keep the structure solid. I loved the flow but would have happily read more for the pair. The relationship between Will and Damon has good standing and moves at a good pace
The ship and pirates felt developed and you got to know the crew well. The building of trust from at for will from everyone was well earned. Nice pirate romance with some smut, with a grumbly captain and a sarcastic cabin boy.
Loved the simple story layed out for us for a short book it's good to keep the structure solid. I loved the flow but would have happily read more for the pair. The relationship between Will and Damon has good standing and moves at a good pace
The ship and pirates felt developed and you got to know the crew well. The building of trust from at for will from everyone was well earned. Nice pirate romance with some smut, with a grumbly captain and a sarcastic cabin boy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love a good pirate romance and this one was brilliant. I felt like this book was different from Amy’s usual stories like the sweet barbarians that i love so much. But i enjoyed the change in the characters and the way it was written. Damons a bit more rough around the edges being the pirate captain and all. But i love how hes soft for Will. I loved seeing Will grow into his own person and just how protective and wonderful he was. I hope that there are more pirate books from Amy in our future! A brilliant read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 9, 2026
Pirates, oh my - fans self. Who wouldn't want to be kidnapped by a pirate? A lot of people probably, but Will is not one of them. After 10 years of servitude, he finally knows what it is to be free. Hard working, loyal and fiercely protective, it's not long before he earns the respect of crew and the eye of the captain. Damon, the Sea Wolf, is demanding, but fair with a moral compass unusual in a pirate. I loved their slow burn romance, the care they took of each other and their happily ever after. There's also plenty of swashbuckling, some betrayal and a big storm along the way. Sadly, I think this is a standalone, which is a shame, as I'd love more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Will is an unwilling manservant to a selfish, spoiled jerk. He doesn't get treated well and never has any free time. He has to wake up early in the morning just to enjoy the sunrise. Now he's on a journey with his employer's children to Port Antonio. He doesn't want to go but as things stand he doesn't really have a choice. On the way there, their ship is attacked by pirates and the only thing saving them is the ransom to be had on the children.
Damon is captain of the Devil's Revenge. His reputation as the Sea Wolf has spread wide, so when they attack the ship carrying Will their captain immediately surrenders. When Will points out to Damon that the other captain is being duplicitous, he gains favor. Now Will and his employer's children are being held captive but Will realizes his life is actually changing for the good. On the way to Port Antonio shenanigans happens; some good, some bad.
This is a good action/adventure romance. I like Will and Damon from the start. They have good chemistry and hot sexy times. 🔥 Henry (Will's employer's son) is a jerk from beginning to end but I do think he had some positive personal growth. I loved that even though Will wasn't happy with his job that he took it seriously, to the point of risking himself to protect the children. I loved that Damon was a hardened criminal but still has some morals, some lines he wouldn't cross and wouldn't let his crew members cross. Darrow, Lockhart, Mad Eye and Trumble are all nice additions to the story. They kept it from getting dark. There are a few ship members that are completely amoral but they are taken care of before they can cause irreparable damage. I really like that Will gets to double cross Governor Davenport. It was completely fitting for the story. I hope there's more books to come and this isn't a standalone.
Damon is captain of the Devil's Revenge. His reputation as the Sea Wolf has spread wide, so when they attack the ship carrying Will their captain immediately surrenders. When Will points out to Damon that the other captain is being duplicitous, he gains favor. Now Will and his employer's children are being held captive but Will realizes his life is actually changing for the good. On the way to Port Antonio shenanigans happens; some good, some bad.
This is a good action/adventure romance. I like Will and Damon from the start. They have good chemistry and hot sexy times. 🔥 Henry (Will's employer's son) is a jerk from beginning to end but I do think he had some positive personal growth. I loved that even though Will wasn't happy with his job that he took it seriously, to the point of risking himself to protect the children. I loved that Damon was a hardened criminal but still has some morals, some lines he wouldn't cross and wouldn't let his crew members cross. Darrow, Lockhart, Mad Eye and Trumble are all nice additions to the story. They kept it from getting dark. There are a few ship members that are completely amoral but they are taken care of before they can cause irreparable damage. I really like that Will gets to double cross Governor Davenport. It was completely fitting for the story. I hope there's more books to come and this isn't a standalone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
William and Damon story was convoluted with danger, adrenaline, unexpected developments, betrayal, surprises, retribution, and a very hard won happiness.
Their chemistry was complicated as they kept their true feelings at bay, weren’t forthcoming and open in their endeavours, and they even got separated thanks to circumstances.
Their reunion was interesting and intense, and the changes well deserved after all the developments.
They got their happiness but the adventure continues with new prospects and new challenges.
Their chemistry was complicated as they kept their true feelings at bay, weren’t forthcoming and open in their endeavours, and they even got separated thanks to circumstances.
Their reunion was interesting and intense, and the changes well deserved after all the developments.
They got their happiness but the adventure continues with new prospects and new challenges.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I always enjoy a good pirate book! I am also a huge fan of this author’s work, so I couldn’t resist reading this one. The characters drew me in fast. I fell in love with Will and his determination and grit. Will is determined to save the girls in his care when their ship is taken by pirates, but he never dreamed of the adventure it would take him on. Damon sees the spirit in the man and strikes a bargain that will change them both. Absolutely thrilling and wonderful read. Highly recommend it!
July 8, 2026
Demons and barbarians and temp workers. Oh my. And now Amy Padilla gives us......Pirates. Pirate captain the Sea Wolf Damon introduces (mild mannered) Will to piracy, offering to make him his cabin boy. Lots of snark and sizzle. Will grows from a naive protector of innocents to an equal co-adventuring partner for Damon.
Light hearted and sweet. Just a bit of pure summertime reading fun. Nicely paced. I'm sure we'll more of these two and get to meet some more crew.
I received an advanced copy of this ebook from the author and this is my review.
Light hearted and sweet. Just a bit of pure summertime reading fun. Nicely paced. I'm sure we'll more of these two and get to meet some more crew.
I received an advanced copy of this ebook from the author and this is my review.
July 12, 2026
The Pirate Captain’s Bargain is a fun and swashbuckling read by Amy Padilla. It follows manservant Will and Pirate Captain Damon as they navigate the perils of the high seas and the returning of Will’s charges to their father.
I enjoyed the concept for this book and the action and adventure aspects were fun, but this book struggled to keep my attention. It just felt like there was this disconnect to who the characters were supposed to be and who they actually are.
I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
I enjoyed the concept for this book and the action and adventure aspects were fun, but this book struggled to keep my attention. It just felt like there was this disconnect to who the characters were supposed to be and who they actually are.
I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
July 12, 2026
Swashbuckling hijinks on the high sea
Will is a man servant to a horrible person and has been pressed to accompany his employer's children on a ship.
They're boarded by pirates and while Will is sweet, he's definitely not letting anyone harm the children even though they might be horrible brats.
Damon is the pirate captain and Will garners some favor for himself and the children by exposing his ship's captain as being tricky.
I loved the chemistry they had and it was wonderful to see Will's growth to become snarky and confident in himself.
Will is a man servant to a horrible person and has been pressed to accompany his employer's children on a ship.
They're boarded by pirates and while Will is sweet, he's definitely not letting anyone harm the children even though they might be horrible brats.
Damon is the pirate captain and Will garners some favor for himself and the children by exposing his ship's captain as being tricky.
I loved the chemistry they had and it was wonderful to see Will's growth to become snarky and confident in himself.
July 17, 2026
This was fine. I do find this author very hit and miss, and whilst this was an enjoyable read, it wasn’t anything I think I’m going to reread or think of again. I think it’s because Pirates as a genre are really interesting to me, and this just fell a bit flat. It also fell into the trap of being set historically, but having modern language, which threw me out of the story.
That being said, it was a fun, quick read. The build up between pirate Captain Damon and cabin boy Will was good and the plot did actually make sense! So good if you want something fun and pirate-y!
That being said, it was a fun, quick read. The build up between pirate Captain Damon and cabin boy Will was good and the plot did actually make sense! So good if you want something fun and pirate-y!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thoroughly enjoyed this pirate tail which is all about man servant Will being thrust into an unexpected adventure when the ship he's travelling on is taken by pirates. He steps up to the challenge and learns a lot about himself along the way. There's lots of great characters. I'd love a follow up to see what Will and his pirate captain get up to next, particularly with that planned port raid!
I received an ARC.
I received an ARC.
July 8, 2026
This is a fun and sweet read. It was nice to be along for the ride as we see Will and Damon find their way. I enjoyed the way their relationship takes shape. I like that Damon sees what Will can really be and is happy to stand beside him and help him in any way that he can. This story is full of adventure and emotions and we get to see the true personalities and not just what they show the world.
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