Surrender the Stars

Rakes & Rebels: The Raveneau Family #5

by Cynthia Wright

SURRENDER THE HEART. Her name is Lindsay Raveneau, stunningly beautiful and fiercely independent, a schoolmistress who hides a passionate soul beneath a most proper facade....

SURRENDER THE DESIRE. He is the handsome, virile Ryan Coleraine, an adventurer and a spy, a ladies' man at ease in any mileau -- from the hand -hewn planks aboard a ship to the rarefied air of a Regency English drawing room....

SURRENDER THE PASSION. Together they will forge a love so strong, so consuming, that nothing can alter it -- not the fact that he is to masquerade as her brother to help the American cause now the breath-stopping game of pretend they must play in front of friend and foe alike....

SURRENDER THE LUST. Together they will wait, embracing the dark of night, fulfilling their desire as they SURRENDER THE STARS.

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

438 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published August 12, 1987

About the author

Cynthia Wright is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, best known for her Rakes & Rebels series, 16 intertwining historical romances starring the irresistible Raveneau & Beauvisage families. Her other acclaimed series are Crowns & Kilts and Rogues Go West. Romantic Times Magazine hails Cynthia's novels as "Romance the way it was meant to be."

Cynthia lives in northern California. She enjoys riding a tandem bike and taking road trips in an airstream trailer with her Colombian-born husband, Alvaro & their corgi, Watson. She is also devoted to her two teenage grandsons who live nearby.

You are invited to visit Cynthia's website (where you can sign up for her newsletter and peruse the Books Page):
http://cynthiawrightauthor.com/

You are invited to join Cynthia's private Facebook reader group here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/98606...

View her "Behind the Books" boards on Pinterest:
http://pinterest.com/cynthiawright77/

RAKES & REBELS: The Raveneau Family series:
1 - SILVER STORM (André & Devon)
2 - HER HUSBAND, THE RAKE: a sequel novella (André & Devon)
3 - SMUGGLER'S MOON (Sebastian & Julia)
4 - THE SECRET OF LOVE (Gabriel & Isabella)
5 - SURRENDER THE STARS (Ryan & Lindsay)
6 - HIS MAKE-BELIEVE BRIDE (Justin & Mouette)
7 - HER IMPOSSIBLE HUSBAND (Justin & Mouette)
8 - HER SECRET ROGUE (Anthony & Frederica)
9 - HIS FIERY ANGEL (Benedict & Camille)
10 - HIS RECKLESS BARGAIN (Nathan & Adrienne)
11 - TEMPEST (Adam & Cathy)

RAKES & REBELS: The Raveneau Family intertwines with RAKES & REBELS: The Beauvisage Family series:
1 - STOLEN BY A PIRATE: a prequel novella to RESCUED BY A ROGUE (Jean-Philippe & Antonia)
2 -RESCUED BY A ROGUE (Alec & Caro)
3 - TOUCH THE SUN (Lion & Meagan)
4 - SPRING FIRES (Nicholai & Lisette)
5 - HER DANGEROUS VISCOUNT (Grey & Natalya)

CROWNS & KILTS: The St. Briac Family
1 - YOU & NO OTHER (Thomas & Aimee)
2 - OF ONE HEART (Andrew & Micheline)
3 - ABDUCTED AT THE ALTAR (Christophe & Fiona)
4 - RETURN OF THE LOST BRIDE (Ciaran & Violette)
5 - QUEST OF THE HIGHLANDER (Lennox & Nora)

ROGUES GO WEST
1 - BRIGHTER THAN GOLD (Jack & Katie)
2 - IN A RENEGADE'S EMBRACE (Fox & Maddie)
3 - THE DUKE & THE COWGIRL (Geoff & Shelby)
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Reviews

[Missy · Rating 2 out of 5]

The heroine is presented as a calm, sensible bluestocking in the beginning. However, that all changes when she meets the hero. She picks fights with him, is snobbish at times, impulsive, and bratty/childish. The hero shrugs it off since he enjoys most of their interactions. I did, too, until the bickering became repetitive and childish on her part. They would fight, then kiss, and then fight again. I can't believe the risk they're willing to take to steal a few kisses and more, because the ton thinks they're siblings! There are already speculations that their relationship is similar to that of Brummel (is that his name?) and his sister. *shaking my head*

The OW semi-drama was an odd one. She and the hero were in love before he moved to America and before she married. She recognizes him immediately when he returns to London, disguised as a "fob" or “dandy” pretending to be the heroine's brother. She says she's content in her marriage and has come to love her husband, and so I thought, "Great! That's the end of that!" But, nope, she keeps putting herself within his vicinity because she is a little jealous of his feelings for the heroine. "Move on, woman!" They ended up alone a few times and I got anxious thinking her husband would discover them at any minute and his cover would be blown.

The conflict was easily resolved. No real threat at all. The book should have been shorter.

[Rema · Rating 1 out of 5]

While the beginning held delicious promise, the rest of the book was on a constant decline. The characters were much to blame for my dissatisfaction with the novel. I'd read Silver Storm a couple years back and was enchanted by Devon's and Andre's story. And I thought Silver Sea would entice me in the same way. However Lindsay did not turn out at all to be the character I thought she'd be in the beginning. She was impulsive, scatter-brained and so childlike I couldn't believe this was supposed to be the calm, sensible woman introduced in the early chapters. Rather than love bringing out a wonderful side to Lindsay she just seemed plain spoiled by it.

I hated reading about her scenarios, especially when she rushes headlong into a situation without thinking of the repercussions and can't even handle herself, making the situation much worse. She'd done this twice and the second time was the last straw.

Lindsay, instead of staying strong and determined when she follows Ryan on a mission he explicitly forbids her from accompanying him on, she breaks down in tears when he confronts her in anger. Typical damsel in distress. I think the author only added that part in for the sake of having a stupid, inane argument that could lead to some steamy make up scenes. And the one exciting time she wields a gun…it jams! You've got to be kidding me! And then we have the constant reference to her beauty-ugh give me a break. It's already mentioned every few pages. Yes we know she's pretty, but there's nothing substantial or even remotely likable about her personality. I guess the constant reminder of her beauty is supposed to make us all forget that there's not much else to her.

I'm used to heroines like in Amanda Quick's novels. Women that can handle themselves. That have personalities, are quirky, and amusing. That aren't so hopelessly useless or nobody without love in their lives. Because basically Lindsay (even by her own mother) was described as "terribly" sensible before. And that's wrong? Please, I'd prefer it to this hopelessly useless and feather brained damsel in distress. Really there is no need for her in the novel, she just constantly makes me groan. I honestly can't see what Ryan saw in her. Rather than looking inside he was probably entranced by the constant remarks on Lindsay's gloriously magnificent beauty. Cue eye roll.

The romance-should i even bother? There was absolutely no romance. Only overdone passion. Passion does not equal love. Whenever Ryan and Lindsay occupy the same room they can barely restrain from just ravishing each other; it would be interesting if this didn't happen so often. Honestly, they say "I love you" to each other so much that you'd think there'd be more romance. Nope just lust.

Anyways this was so disappointing that if I wasn't feeling so generous I'd have given it one star. Hmm maybe I will.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

SURRENDER THE STARS, the second Raveneau entry in Cynthia Wright's Rakes and Rebels series pits Andre and Devon's youngest daughter, Lindsay against dashing privateer Ryan Coleraine. Lindsay has always been the quiet, serious Raveneau, quite different from the rest of her adventurous family. However, when she meets sea captain Ryan Coleraine, sparks fly. When they are thrown together, with Ryan posing as Lindsay's brother Nathan, to help the family spy in London, Lindsay is quite unhappy. As they find themselves in unfamiliar world of the London ton, Lindsay and Ryan discover passion and love, which can be quite hard to share when you are masquerading as brother and sister!

SURRENDER THE STARS is an excellent addition to the Rakes and Rebels series. It is great fun reading about the next generation of Raveneaus and discovering the passions of Andre and Devon are still going strong. Wright seamlessly incorporates the history of the time and her attention to detail allows the reader to get truly lost in the story.

[Lorelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 2 of The Raveneau Novels and takes place during the war of 1812. Ryan Coleraine is a dashing sea Captain who is employed by Andre Raveneau. Lindsay Raveneau is the 20 year old daughter of Andre and Devon. Together they all embark on diplomatic mission to England, to find out who may be leaking sensitive information. Ryan is asked to pretend to be Lindsay's brother. The "siblings" begin to fall in love and do not do a very good job of hiding their, sort of, incestuous relationship. Lindsay goes from a boring school teacher in CT, to a headstrong and adventurous women. Ryan is loving, sweet and forgiving. 3 1/2 stars. Recommend that you read Silver Storm first, which is an excellent story.

[Elis Madison · Rating 3 out of 5]

A couple technical issues (addressing Prinny as Your Majesty, for example) and a rather big logic problem (they could as easily have pretended Ryan was a more distant relation--which would have made more sense since he'd lived in England and might be recognized--but that would mess with the story) lost a star for this otherwise enjoyable romp.

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/12/2020)! 🎁

[Eileen Dandashi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cynthia Wright's novels have stood the test of time. Wonderfully written and exciting to hear it narrated by a talented reader.

Audiobook review:

My Thoughts: Book 2 of the series is completely different from book 1, but not at all lacking.

Ryan fought hard to stay away from Lindsey. After all, she was his boss’s daughter. Her fiery personality only drew him closer, but they were playing with fire. If they should be caught, they may bring danger to the whole family. Lindsey was snared by Ryan whether she wanted to be or not. After their first kiss, she couldn’t keep him out of her mind. We slowly learn about Ryan, his background, his life in Ireland and London. His life before being captain of the Chimera stands him in good stead when the story of intrigue, and danger, laced with humor unfolds.

I enjoyed how Devon, who by the way, was much like her daughter, in temperament when young, struggled with forbidding her daughter to talk with Ryan and on the other hand understanding how she was drawn to him. She could see Ryan was very much like Andre when they had been young.

This was a ‘chuckler’, highly entertaining and well-written keeping me listening for long hours. I would readily revisit this story again either in printed form or audio.

The narrator, Emily Beresford, must have had a splendid time with all the accents she had to keep apart. Andre’s was slightly French, Devon and Lindsey’s were American, Ryan’s was Irish. Ryan also played the fop, so he had the bored sound that the ton made vogue. The next moment he would be whispering to Lindsey in his Irish brogue. Ms. Beresford impressed me even more in book 2 with her versatility.

Here's an excerpt from the novel just before Ryan walks into Lindsey's life:

"I wish you would let me finish this tonight," complained Betsy Urquhart. She sat alone, surrounded by empty desks, and gazed mournfully at the figure sorting papers at the front of the schoolroom.

"If you had written your theme last night, as instructed, you wouldn't be here now," her teacher replied without looking up.

"King Lear is so tedious." She pouted. "Besides, I thought you were my friend, Lindsay!"

"When we are in this room, I am your teacher and you must address me accordingly. Now, finish your theme so that we may both go home!"

Betsy wrote laboriously for several minutes, then said, "One would never guess that you are just two years older than I am—or that you come from such an adventurous family. I don't understand how you can be so dull—"

"I am not dull!" Lindsay answered sharply. "Simply because my relatives are afflicted with wanderlust, that does not make me dull. I choose to remain on land and pursue more serious endeavors. I enjoy teaching. Imparting knowledge to others is a great source of satisfaction to me."

"Do you never long for even a bit of adventure?" Betsy eyed her speculatively. "Or... romance? Mary Pratt told me that the Chimera is supposed to dock today. She's practically the only ship that has been able to elude that blockade of the Sound, but considering her captain, it's no surprise." She paused to sigh dreamily. "I was planning to walk to the Point after school in hopes of seeing him. Surely even you must grow weak at the thought of Ryan Coleraine! I've never seen a handsomer man...."

"Don't be absurd. In the first place, the Chimera is not the first privateer to achieve such feats. My father was just as successful during the Revolutionary War, and, as you know, Papa had the Chimera built, so your precious Ryan Coleraine is in his employ!"

Betsy tossed her curls impatiently. "You haven't answered my question! Don't you find Captain Coleraine attractive?"

"We've never met, but from what I've seen, the answer is no." Lindsay shuffled her papers nervously. "His looks don't appeal to me. I prefer fair men. Aside from that, Captain Coleraine's character is, in my opinion, repugnant."

"Repugnant?" Betsy was unfamiliar with the word but sensed its meaning. "How can you say such a thing?"

"He's an uneducated, cocky, ill-mannered rogue," Lindsay stated with finality. "Take my advice and stay away from men of his ilk. They lack scruples and take pleasure in ruining the reputations of gullible females like you."

From the doorway, a male voice spoke. "Am I to infer that you don't approve of me, Miss Raveneau?"

Startled, Lindsay spun around to find Ryan Coleraine leaning against the door frame, one eyebrow arched. A smile of cynical amusement played over his mouth.

"I—I—" she stammered. Hearing Betsy's muffled giggle, she looked in her direction. "You may go now, Elizabeth."

"But what about my theme? I'm not finished yet!"

"You may finish it tonight."

As the teacher and pupil continued to argue, Coleraine's dark blue eyes wandered over Lindsay Raveneau. He was surprised to discover that she was beautiful, perhaps even more beautiful than her mother. She was about twenty and taller than Devon Raveneau. Even though Lindsay wore a demure, cream-colored chemise frock and a cashmere shawl, Ryan's practiced eyes detected a lithe, long-legged body with a narrow waist and high, perfect breasts. Her hair was the same amazing rosy-gold shade as her mother’s, and she wore it in a fashionable Grecian knot high atop her head, with a profusion of soft curls escaping to frame her lovely, intelligent countenance.

"Good-bye, Captain Coleraine," Betsy said as she passed him in the doorway.

Ryan looked at Lindsay. "Dare I enter? I can assure you that I have come not to ruin your reputation but to inquire after your father."

"Please, come in. I apologize for the things you heard me say about you, but you should have made your presence known instead of eavesdropping."

He approached her desk, thinking that he had never met a young lady with so cool and confident a gaze. Lindsay's eyes were striking: thick-lashed and the color of smoke. Her complexion was creamy, with smudges of pink accentuating her cheekbones, and below a delicate nose reposed a mouth with a frankly sensual lower lip. Perhaps there was hope for this bluestocking after all, he thought as his eyes lingered there, then rose to meet her questioning gaze.

"My father is in Philadelphia, Captain Coleraine."

"So I heard. It's a pleasure to meet you at last, Miss Raveneau." Ryan extended a strong hand and gently clasped hers. "I'm sorry that you're unable to say the same."

Sensing his amusement, Lindsay strove to retain her composure. What an embarrassing situation this was! "It's been a long day, Captain Coleraine, and I may have spoken rashly. Again, I beg your pardon. Now, if you don't mind, I would like to finish my work here. How can I help you?"

"I am anxious to see your father. Able Barker thought that you might know when he's returning to Pettipauge."

"Within the week. I'm sorry that I can't give you an exact date."

Coleraine shrugged, frustration further darkening his mood. "Well, then, I suppose I'll just have to wait. I appreciate your speaking to me, Miss Raveneau. I know it can't have been easy." He gave her a cool smile and turned toward the schoolhouse doorway. "Good afternoon."

When his hand touched the latch, Lindsay called, "Wait! There's something I've always wanted to know. Will you tell me how you chose the Chimera's name? I was surprised when Papa told me that you had christened her."

He glanced back over one broad shoulder. "I liked the image of a she-monster with a serpent's tail, a goat's body, and a lion's head spitting flames. I think of my ship like the chimera from Greek mythology: a magical creature with the ability to overcome all obstacles."

Lindsay lifted her chin slightly. "I wouldn't have expected you to be a student of Greek mythology, Captain."

He laughed shortly. "Believe it or not, Miss Raveneau, I don't spend every spare moment seducing unsuspecting young females!"

The door closed behind him and Lindsay found herself alone in the schoolroom, muttering rude rejoinders that she was certain she'd never have an opportunity to employ.

[Gator Girl Eaton · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ebook owned
2 stars
Free
Spoilers if it matters

It was a freebie so I read it. ( though I had my doubts about reading any more of Ms Wright’s romances.)
Well the heroine, Lindsay was an utter brat for about half of the book. Good grief. Ryan the hero was likable.
Lindsay is the youngest daughter of Andre and Devon Raveneau. Ryan is an Irish-American who captains a ship for Andre.

We get a brief cameo from Senator Lion Hampshire and Meagan, who ask Andre and Devon to “spy” for them in London. And that leads to having Lindsay and Ryan (who will pose as their son, Nathan) to go with them to London. They’re younger of course and can infiltrate the ton to find out who’s giving American intelligence to the British military.

I thought it a rather absurd idea to have Ryan aka Nathan put on the “dandy / fop” persona. Eye roll
Doesn’t take long to figure out “who” our bad guys were. ( interesting that Mouette’s, (Andre and Devon’s oldest daughter) husband was one of the bad guys.)
The other bad guy was the husband of Ryan’s ex, Hester.
**but honestly I skimmed through a lot of this section**

Now once Lindsay finally stopped being a brat and realized she “loved” Ryan…. It was instant cheesy romance. Which I rolled my eyes and just enjoyed the cheesy.

It was ok.

[Jennifer Gow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full disclosure - I read this book for the first time eons ago when I started my first job as a bookseller at Waldenbooks. I was told the romance section was MY section and I was responsible for keeping it organized, stocked, and should read multiple titles to have recommendations for customers. This was one of the first books I read from that section and I was totally hooked. I'm 50 years old now and I still have a wee bit of a crush on Ryan. (I admit it, I totally love the cliche of a surface rogue being a really good solid man). The story moves along quickly from Connecticut to London, with enjoyable subplots and character dynamics. Having found the e-version for my kindle I joyfully proceeded to read the entire series, actually two or three series, that ties together multiple generations of the intertwining families. I read it as a stand alone and loved it, but read in its place in the series of Cynthia Wright books makes it very special.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The handsome, Captain Ryan Colerine, who is captain of one of Andre Raveneau ships meets Andre's youngest daughter Lindsey as she is about to confront the Britsh who are intent on burning all the ships in harbour including her father's. Ryan rescues Lindsey from making a dreadful mistake, however she doesn't see it that way and sparks fly. The Raveneau family are persuaded to spy for the British in London and take Ryan along to impersonate their son Nathan who's away on another family ship. Lindsey who didn't want to go finds she is quite intreged with the adventure. With Ryan and Lindsey both living under the same roof posing as brother and sister the rivalry begins and Lindsey finds herself falling for Ryan. They get involved and have a hard time keeping up appearances of brother and sister. This was a book that you want to read in one sitting as it's hard to put down.

[Fredine Purvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surrender the stars (Rakes & Rebels: The Raven way Family Book 5) Cynthia Wright

This is a most enjoyable story, filled with adventure, intrigue and of course love. Lindsey Raven say and Ryan Coleraine have a love hate beginning, with him slinging her over his shoulder, rescuing her from a burning ship, set on fire by British sailors. The adventure begins, she teaches school in Pettipague, Connecticut, then the British burn all the ships in port, stating if the people in the town do not inferior, they will not be hurt. They embark on a trip to London on behalf of President Madison, as diplomatic envoy to find out who is providing information to the enemy about the Americans and fortifications. The adventure for the Raveneau family is most enjoyable, with much bumper as well as danger.

[Svalora · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to much of this book on Audible — read some too! I enjoyed the narration which added to my enjoyment of the story.
I enjoyed this book more than some of the other books in this series so far. I liked the high spirited and independent female in this book — although I know many readers do not! I just find her feisty yet innocent enough to be a fun character! I much enjoyed the hero of the story though to — and the facade he had to go through for a family that wasn’t even his own! A fun twist to the “dream” at the end - in which I’ve never see in a book from this timeframe— although I’m sure the author researched and has it in the correct historical place :-)
On to the next in the series!

[Marcilla Elliott · Rating 2 out of 5]

Did not enjoy this addition to the series. I liked the heroine all of five minutes. She appeared to be smart, sensible, and maybe a little too cautious. After that five minutes, she spent the rest of the book acting childish, reckless, and bratty. I felt the book was forcefully long. I enjoy a long book but this one was long for no reason. I don't like lovers pretending to be siblings. Lindsey reminded me to much of her mother Devon in book one of the series. I did not like that book either. I loved Book Three in the series Smuggler's Moon. I have skipped ahead and read Monet's stories and enjoyed all three parts of that series. This one would be forgettable except that I found it to be so bad.

[Judy Struck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really compelling story.

This tale in multiple lands and sea was interesting from start to finish. I have been to many of the places described, and so it was great to relive those memories and envision Oxford, Galway and even the Cliffs of Mohr. Again, the characters were fun to know and they they stayed true to type, even when pretending to be something they were decidedly NOT. Good read, indeed.

[Annette · Rating 2 out of 5]

SURRENDER THE STARS: was a disappointment for me after loving SILVER STORM. Our heroine is the daughter of André Raveneau, she is a silly, spoiled, thoughtless ingenue. Our hero plays a “fop” as disguise. The story is all over the place from America to England to Ireland. Too many side characters. .... I listened to the book on Audible, subpar performance probably influenced my rating.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surrender the Stars (Rakes & Rebels: The Raveneau Family Book 5)

Captain Andre Coleraine and Lindsay met on uncertain terms. Ryan saved her life but she always bothered him as did he to her. They went to London to help find who is turning over America’s secrets. Author Cynthia Wright has this book full of mystery.

[Lidia Riva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bellissimo romanzo d’amore che si intreccia con un racconto giallo pieno di emozioni. Belli i personaggi e la storia è molto scorrevole e accattivante e non mancano i colpi di scena. Lo consiglio sicuramente

[John Boles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surrender the Stars

This was once of the best stories I've ever read. Everything that I have read by Cynthia Wright has been outstanding. This book had more suspense and intrigue than you could find in most books. I would recommend it to anyone.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Lindsay and Ryan's story! I also loved how it paralleled with her parents (Devon and Andre's) story! That was a nice touch by the author. I did find the story turned a little slow during the middle of the book but picked back up for the ending. Altogether, it was a nice read!

[Phyllis Sanders · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surrender the Stars

Another excellent and exciting book written by Cynthia Wright. It is full of romance, mystery, and intrigue. One of those books that you can not put down till it ends.

[Holly Lenz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surrender the Stars is a fun romantic adventure with a spirited young lady and a sea captain who have to pretend to be siblings. The couple tend to bicker excessively which can be annoying, but overall, it’s a good story.

[Teresa Carkeek · Rating 5 out of 5]

great and fun

These series of Rakes and Rebels of prior books. I look forward to the next one and then the next one and then the next one. I love the history and the parts that make me laugh.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such excitement

Just finished a second reading of this book. Love the chemistry between characters and feeling like I’m right there with them. On to next one in this series again.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not my favorite Raveneau story, but I did enjoy the tie between two characters we had met in prior books.

[Marjorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Adventure Romance

I enjoyed this book. It continues the love story of this family. I already have the next book ready to read.

[David Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Great Book bryan Cynthia Wright!

Loved the book so much, it was hard to put down. The story, woven into the time o f the War of 1812, was well done.

[Beverly Purser · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best read and author. I love her books and am trilled to travel through her wonderful stories. Never fails or disappoints..a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ No. 1 author.

[Jane Peters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book!

The characters came alive, and the plot had fascinating twists. A love story, certainly; a mystery, oh yes. Very entertaining!

[Virginia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A most enjoyable Regency romance, with many interesting characters.

[Laurel E]

Liked the book. The characters were ok a little bit over the top in maintaining their subterfuge successfully. A bit of repeated love scenes and verbage