What do you think?
Rate this book
Bloody Jack #6
My Bonny Light Horseman: Being an Account of the Further Adventures of Jacky Faber, in Love and War
The infamous pirate, riverboat seductress, master of disguise, and street-urchin-turned-sailor Jacky Faber has been captured by the French and beheaded in full view of her friends and crew. Inconceivable? Yes! The truth is she's secretly forced to pose as an American dancer behind enemy lines in Paris, where she entices a French general into revealing military secrets—all to save her dear friends. Then, in intrepid Jacky Faber style, she dons male clothing and worms her way into a post as galloper with the French army, ultimately leading a team of men to fight alongside the great Napoleon.
In this sixth installment of the Bloody Jack Adventures series, love and war collide as the irrepressible Jacky Faber sets off on a daring adventure she vowed she'd never take.
In this sixth installment of the Bloody Jack Adventures series, love and war collide as the irrepressible Jacky Faber sets off on a daring adventure she vowed she'd never take.
436 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2008
113 people are currently reading
2256 people want to read
About the author
L.A. Meyer
18 books1,107 followersLouis A. Meyer is best known as the author of the Bloody Jack novels. He was also a painter and the author of two children's picture books, and he and his wife owned an art gallery called Clair de Loon in Bar Harbor.
Louis A. Meyer passed away on July 29, 2014 from refractory Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. His final Jacky Faber book, Wild Rover No More, was published posthumously in September that year.
Louis A. Meyer passed away on July 29, 2014 from refractory Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. His final Jacky Faber book, Wild Rover No More, was published posthumously in September that year.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 483 reviews
December 1, 2009
Oh Jacky, your life is never calm. I can't believe I've spent the last weekend just reading about it. My poor kids haven't seen me and Ricky even knows who Jacky is since I reference her in my everyday conversations.
So, this book was great but not my favorite. I loved the first half, I mean, come on, Jared Joseph was in it. I liked the men on the boat with her and was interested with the plot. I think I could have done without all the fighting and spying in France. I think there were too many paragraphs on battle techniques and not enough about Jaimy. Still love him. I did not really care for Jean Paul so no competition there. I am just amazed with all these eligible men Jacky ends up with. Here is my ranking of the men in her life. Well, the men that kiss her because Higgins would be top of the list if it were just men. He's great.
1. Jaimy Fletcher-He is so sweet and his letters make me melt.
2. Jared Joseph-Smolders. I don't know him, but I'm sure he does.
3. Lord Richard Allen-HELLO, a LORD! Need I say more.
4. Randall Trevelayne-love his swagger and bravado
5. Jean Paul and his gross little Frenchy mustache
6. Robin-Just too young
AHH, now I have to wait until I get book 7. I hate waiting.
So, this book was great but not my favorite. I loved the first half, I mean, come on, Jared Joseph was in it. I liked the men on the boat with her and was interested with the plot. I think I could have done without all the fighting and spying in France. I think there were too many paragraphs on battle techniques and not enough about Jaimy. Still love him. I did not really care for Jean Paul so no competition there. I am just amazed with all these eligible men Jacky ends up with. Here is my ranking of the men in her life. Well, the men that kiss her because Higgins would be top of the list if it were just men. He's great.
1. Jaimy Fletcher-He is so sweet and his letters make me melt.
2. Jared Joseph-Smolders. I don't know him, but I'm sure he does.
3. Lord Richard Allen-HELLO, a LORD! Need I say more.
4. Randall Trevelayne-love his swagger and bravado
5. Jean Paul and his gross little Frenchy mustache
6. Robin-Just too young
AHH, now I have to wait until I get book 7. I hate waiting.
November 3, 2020
Review to come
January 13, 2012
Kaherine Kellgren has officially ruined audiobooks for me. She is absolutely amazing at it. The books come to life in my head as she reads it with many different accents for all the characters. She has such enthusiasm and even sings all the old sailor songs. I swear she's amazing. When this series is over I shall be quite sad to go back to the regular books with singular characters and narrators without enough ummph.
L.A. Meyer has found a gem of a series with his adventures of Jacky Faber and I hope for all us Bloody Jack fans out there we can expect many many more :)
L.A. Meyer has found a gem of a series with his adventures of Jacky Faber and I hope for all us Bloody Jack fans out there we can expect many many more :)
September 20, 2009
Okay, so it wasn't as good as I hoped, but it was not as much of a disappointment as In the Belly of the Bloodhound. I think I liked the overall story about as much as the first book, but something that the other books have was missing.
I think it might be the relationships Jacky makes, because really the only people she meets and you care about at all are Jean-Paul (whom I find rather pathetic, anyway) and Bordot. It was kind of cool catching up with Davy (who is much more mature now), Jared, and Tink, and I predicted that the mysterious American in Boney's army would be Randall (who is also rather more grown-up and more pleasant to read about), but there were no new relationships forged like Jacky usually does wherever she goes.
I also wish we could meet up with more old faces again, like Mairead and Liam, Amy (whom has hardly been in there in forever), Ezra, Robin, etc.
I didn't understand why Jacky even went to work as a dancer in the Corps de Ballet, it wasn't a main focus of the story, and was just random in my opinion. My favorite part was probably while Jacky was aboard the Dauntless, but--as with other parts--it seemed kind of like it had all already happened:
Here's Jacky in another stinking cell, bemoaning her fate and never going to get out alive, but meanwhile plotting her escape and charming her Marine guards and any other male within her reach.
Here's slight little Jacky shaping up a group that's in shambles and making them some of the best in the army.
Here's Jacky flirting with yet another dashing, handsome, and kind man who she's being "good" with by only kissing and groping. That part especially got to me this time; Jaimy's lying there wounded and Jacky still doesn't know if he'll survive--or if he does, regain his full mental capacity--and she's charming the life out of Jean-Paul and falling in love with him.
At least this book is finally one that ended with her in Jaimy's arms (not in a corny way) and no sign of danger on the horizon...yet. I'm hoping the next book might have them traveling together for at least a while--like if Jacky for some reason has to be disguised as a boy again, and Jaimy comes too and so has to treat her like one. Now that would be interesting. It might develop their relationship on more equal respect and friendship terms, rather than just their romance.
Did anyone notice that Joseph Jared is now aboard the H.M.S. Lorelei? The working title of Book #8 is The Wake of the Lorelei Lee. Hmmm
I think it might be the relationships Jacky makes, because really the only people she meets and you care about at all are Jean-Paul (whom I find rather pathetic, anyway) and Bordot. It was kind of cool catching up with Davy (who is much more mature now), Jared, and Tink, and I predicted that the mysterious American in Boney's army would be Randall (who is also rather more grown-up and more pleasant to read about), but there were no new relationships forged like Jacky usually does wherever she goes.
I also wish we could meet up with more old faces again, like Mairead and Liam, Amy (whom has hardly been in there in forever), Ezra, Robin, etc.
I didn't understand why Jacky even went to work as a dancer in the Corps de Ballet, it wasn't a main focus of the story, and was just random in my opinion. My favorite part was probably while Jacky was aboard the Dauntless, but--as with other parts--it seemed kind of like it had all already happened:
Here's Jacky in another stinking cell, bemoaning her fate and never going to get out alive, but meanwhile plotting her escape and charming her Marine guards and any other male within her reach.
Here's slight little Jacky shaping up a group that's in shambles and making them some of the best in the army.
Here's Jacky flirting with yet another dashing, handsome, and kind man who she's being "good" with by only kissing and groping. That part especially got to me this time; Jaimy's lying there wounded and Jacky still doesn't know if he'll survive--or if he does, regain his full mental capacity--and she's charming the life out of Jean-Paul and falling in love with him.
At least this book is finally one that ended with her in Jaimy's arms (not in a corny way) and no sign of danger on the horizon...yet. I'm hoping the next book might have them traveling together for at least a while--like if Jacky for some reason has to be disguised as a boy again, and Jaimy comes too and so has to treat her like one. Now that would be interesting. It might develop their relationship on more equal respect and friendship terms, rather than just their romance.
Did anyone notice that Joseph Jared is now aboard the H.M.S. Lorelei? The working title of Book #8 is The Wake of the Lorelei Lee. Hmmm
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2008
This is the sixth book in this series and I think the funnest one so far. Jacky Faber is a hilarious character and I thought that she just gets better with each book. I also felt that you could see this series coming to an end -maybe? and I liked that.
These books are written for the young adult age but I'm not sure I agree with that. They are at times a bit grown up I feel. If you have teens that you might suggest these to, I would as a parent read them first and then decide.
These books are written for the young adult age but I'm not sure I agree with that. They are at times a bit grown up I feel. If you have teens that you might suggest these to, I would as a parent read them first and then decide.
September 14, 2015
I listened to the audiobook. The narrator, Katherine Kellgren, is amazing! The story is full of suspense and humor. I always know she will survive, but I'm still scared for Jacky.
January 10, 2010
Another winner. Thank you L.A. Meyer. I was almost going to give up after the last book. Obviously, I did not enjoy it as much as I should have for a Bloody Jack book. This one makes it up.
As usual, Jacky does not lack her horde of admirers. This time, she seems a little too adventurous for a normal teenager. Or maybe not, what do I know. There is the previously introduced Joseph Jared, the newcomer, Jean-Paul, who gets pretty lucky with Jacky, Randall Trevalyne, remember book 2?, and finally, our favorite Jaimy Fletcher.
I see a pattern. Jacky only does boys with name that start with J. anyway, on a serious note. There is a lot more action and more politics and crazy near-death experiences. And as usual, Jacky survives them. And, somehow it does not get old.
I can't wait until I get my hands on the next book, as well as buying this book (the paperback version). This one is definitely worth a read, to the skeptics after Mississippi Jack.
As usual, Jacky does not lack her horde of admirers. This time, she seems a little too adventurous for a normal teenager. Or maybe not, what do I know. There is the previously introduced Joseph Jared, the newcomer, Jean-Paul, who gets pretty lucky with Jacky, Randall Trevalyne, remember book 2?, and finally, our favorite Jaimy Fletcher.
I see a pattern. Jacky only does boys with name that start with J. anyway, on a serious note. There is a lot more action and more politics and crazy near-death experiences. And as usual, Jacky survives them. And, somehow it does not get old.
I can't wait until I get my hands on the next book, as well as buying this book (the paperback version). This one is definitely worth a read, to the skeptics after Mississippi Jack.
March 4, 2023
2023 reread: Yes, this continues to be one of my favorite books in this whole series. It's funny, because I think of this book as the Jacky-in-France book, but she really doesn't even get to France until about halfway through. Once she does...well, it's so much fun. I especially love when she's back in disguise as a boy, this time as a horseback messenger. There's something about her getting to be all snugged up in a smart-looking uniform, neat and tidy in fighting trim....I love it so. This book continues to prove that the author didn't do much research into historical women's clothing, but oh well.
This is definitely one of those books that reaalllly leans heavily on Jacky's abilities to charm men and get them on her side, whether it's her captors, her spy handlers, the rabble of troops that she's given to train, or the Emperor of France himself. She continues to add to her list of "a boy in every port", now adding Jean-Paul de Valdon to the list alongside Jamey Fletcher, Randall Trevelyne, Robin Raybourn, Joseph Jared, Lord Richard Allen.....and probably a couple of others that I'm forgetting. I feel like this is the last one that still has some meaningfulness behind it, while I know in the later books we get more and more names added to the list, but at that point they start to feel cursory and repetitive.
As I've noted in earlier reviews, although this is still a fun Jacky Faber adventure, it definitely ends on a somber note. Katherine Kellgren's performance is heartbreaking, especially when Jacky sings to a fallen comrade. I get teary-eyed, even though the dying character isn't someone we really spent much time with. *le sigh*
2018 reread: Ah, Jacky. *melancholy sigh* This is a particularly delightful adventure, but it ends on such a sad note. This is for sure one of my favorites in this series, and Katherine Kellgren's narration of all the French accents has me pronouncing "croissant" as an emphatic "kwah-sawn!" for days.
2016 Reading Challenge: A fiction and a non-fiction book about the same subject (will be reading "Liar, Temptress, Spy" which is about real-life women who were spies and/or disguised themselves as men to be spies.
This if one of my favorite books in this series, though I'm not sure why. It's not a high seas adventure, since it mostly takes place in land. I guess I just love the books with lots of cross-dressing Jacky. I also like this one because there's very little Jamey Fletcher action, which is good because he was kind of a prat in the last book. This one is kind of a bittersweet book...the ending feels very sad and introspective as Jacky tries to figure out where her loyalties lie, and as she says goodbye to some new friends.
UPDATE November 2012: 2nd read through was just as enjoyable as the first. This may be in my top 3 of the Bloody Jack series.
2011: LOVED this one! This is the Jacky that we know and love! Cunning, resourceful, and in disguise once again! Plus, since I'm listening to these on CD, this book included a LOT of entertaining foreign accents. Such a fun book.
This is definitely one of those books that reaalllly leans heavily on Jacky's abilities to charm men and get them on her side, whether it's her captors, her spy handlers, the rabble of troops that she's given to train, or the Emperor of France himself. She continues to add to her list of "a boy in every port", now adding Jean-Paul de Valdon to the list alongside Jamey Fletcher, Randall Trevelyne, Robin Raybourn, Joseph Jared, Lord Richard Allen.....and probably a couple of others that I'm forgetting. I feel like this is the last one that still has some meaningfulness behind it, while I know in the later books we get more and more names added to the list, but at that point they start to feel cursory and repetitive.
As I've noted in earlier reviews, although this is still a fun Jacky Faber adventure, it definitely ends on a somber note. Katherine Kellgren's performance is heartbreaking, especially when Jacky sings to a fallen comrade. I get teary-eyed, even though the dying character isn't someone we really spent much time with. *le sigh*
2018 reread: Ah, Jacky. *melancholy sigh* This is a particularly delightful adventure, but it ends on such a sad note. This is for sure one of my favorites in this series, and Katherine Kellgren's narration of all the French accents has me pronouncing "croissant" as an emphatic "kwah-sawn!" for days.
2016 Reading Challenge: A fiction and a non-fiction book about the same subject (will be reading "Liar, Temptress, Spy" which is about real-life women who were spies and/or disguised themselves as men to be spies.
This if one of my favorite books in this series, though I'm not sure why. It's not a high seas adventure, since it mostly takes place in land. I guess I just love the books with lots of cross-dressing Jacky. I also like this one because there's very little Jamey Fletcher action, which is good because he was kind of a prat in the last book. This one is kind of a bittersweet book...the ending feels very sad and introspective as Jacky tries to figure out where her loyalties lie, and as she says goodbye to some new friends.
UPDATE November 2012: 2nd read through was just as enjoyable as the first. This may be in my top 3 of the Bloody Jack series.
2011: LOVED this one! This is the Jacky that we know and love! Cunning, resourceful, and in disguise once again! Plus, since I'm listening to these on CD, this book included a LOT of entertaining foreign accents. Such a fun book.
February 5, 2009
While I love the Bloody Jack series and adore Jacky and her wild adventures, I couldn't help feeling frustrated with the direction this one went with. I find Jacky's character refreshing from the pristine, virginal heroines who never contribute to anything constructive. I like how Meyer makes Jacky identifiable and her character like a real girl. I don't even mind Jacky's use of her sexuality and various love interests.
What I found to be the biggest wallbanger moment was when she was having yet another affair with another boy. I felt that after the events of Mississippi Jack and her realization that Jaimy is hurt by her infidelity, that Jacky would at least try to reign herself in a bit. It just felt out of character. I understand Jacky is a bit lewd and not content to be in one place for a long time, but I feel that her and Jaimy just need to tie the knot already. Their relationship is enjoyable to read and I do love the books but with nothing developing, the romance is starting to drag. I just feel that it's unnecessary for Meyer to keep things frozen like this. It's starting to feel like he doesn't know or want to write Jacky in a long term relationship where her partner is actually present.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and the series. I like the characters and plot, the alternating moments of light and darkness, and the swash-buckling action and setting the books take place in. I will most likely continue to read these books, but desire at least some acknowledgement of the development and actions that took place in Mississippi Jack. This one felt too much like a reset button.
What I found to be the biggest wallbanger moment was when she was having yet another affair with another boy. I felt that after the events of Mississippi Jack and her realization that Jaimy is hurt by her infidelity, that Jacky would at least try to reign herself in a bit. It just felt out of character. I understand Jacky is a bit lewd and not content to be in one place for a long time, but I feel that her and Jaimy just need to tie the knot already. Their relationship is enjoyable to read and I do love the books but with nothing developing, the romance is starting to drag. I just feel that it's unnecessary for Meyer to keep things frozen like this. It's starting to feel like he doesn't know or want to write Jacky in a long term relationship where her partner is actually present.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and the series. I like the characters and plot, the alternating moments of light and darkness, and the swash-buckling action and setting the books take place in. I will most likely continue to read these books, but desire at least some acknowledgement of the development and actions that took place in Mississippi Jack. This one felt too much like a reset button.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2009
So, I would probably give this one 31/2 stars. It's not my favorite of the series, but there is always so much adventure that once I pick them up there just really isn't a place to put it down until I'm finished. This series is ridiculous and over the top and yet I'm still find myself excited to see Jacky squeeze her way out of another tight spot. She is such a girlie girl and the next moment cool, confident, and in control. Everything I secretly want to be. I can see why she made such and excellent spy. These books hardly changed my life, but give me exactly what I want.... a few hours of adventure and mayhem without even changing out of my pajamas.
April 17, 2013
One completely outrageous adventure after another. I can't believ how many famous historical events they cover in this series. Its just plain fun. Its perfect for long drives or house cleaning! I love the narrator and how she makes it easy to follow each character. I keep thinking I am going to get tired of Jacky Faber but I never seem to. She is NEVER BORING!!
March 8, 2011
Irrepressible Jacky Faber is back in her 6th book. Now she has been captured and beheaded by the French. Somehow she overcomes that and is being sent by the British to be a spy while acting as messenger for the French army.
Love her spunkiness!
Love her spunkiness!
September 2, 2024
Love this series, but it starts to go downhill a bit by book 5 or 6. There's only SO many times someone can escape from a certain death before it becomes a little less believable. 😅 Still, Jacky Faber is my ultimate comfort read. 🤷♀️
January 19, 2015
As I've come to expect, I loved the next installment of Jacky's adventures. My Bonny Light Horseman made me love Jacky even more. I can never put one of L.A. Meyer's books down!!
August 1, 2019
I’ve been listening to the Bloody Jack series because the narrator does such a wonderful job. This book, however, didn’t really click. I zoned out for chapters, it seems. Reasons/reflections:
A few things that have begun to bother me:
1) I’m really not all that convinced with Jackie’s love for Jamie. Like, why is she promising herself to someone she fell in love with at the age of, what, 9? There are plenty of attractive men who cross her path, and I really think it’s unrealistic that she—a woman of the real world, who has shared intimate life altering moments with many men due to natural circumstances —would still hold on to a childhood notion of the “the one”. I think she’s in love with the idea of Jamie, not the boring reality.
2) despite her self-imposed promise of chastity to Jamie, she is very flexible in her dealings and relations with other men. Not that I judge that, in fact, I wish she’d followed through with some of her side affairs—it just again makes me question the validity of her feelings for Jamie. Jamie is such a wet blanket too, while Jackie is fire. It doesn’t work. Plus, Jamie shows and expresses many signs of undermining her agency if they ever do get to tying the not.
3) I wasn’t into the war conflict (historical, I know, but still), the pretending to be a prostitute, that one almost rape scene.
What I do love about the series is watching Jackie develop into a charismatic and capable leader, while coming into her own. I wish I’d read the series growing up.
A few things that have begun to bother me:
1) I’m really not all that convinced with Jackie’s love for Jamie. Like, why is she promising herself to someone she fell in love with at the age of, what, 9? There are plenty of attractive men who cross her path, and I really think it’s unrealistic that she—a woman of the real world, who has shared intimate life altering moments with many men due to natural circumstances —would still hold on to a childhood notion of the “the one”. I think she’s in love with the idea of Jamie, not the boring reality.
2) despite her self-imposed promise of chastity to Jamie, she is very flexible in her dealings and relations with other men. Not that I judge that, in fact, I wish she’d followed through with some of her side affairs—it just again makes me question the validity of her feelings for Jamie. Jamie is such a wet blanket too, while Jackie is fire. It doesn’t work. Plus, Jamie shows and expresses many signs of undermining her agency if they ever do get to tying the not.
3) I wasn’t into the war conflict (historical, I know, but still), the pretending to be a prostitute, that one almost rape scene.
What I do love about the series is watching Jackie develop into a charismatic and capable leader, while coming into her own. I wish I’d read the series growing up.
February 17, 2018
Meyer, L.A. My Bonny Light Horseman: Being an Account of the Further Adventures of Jacky Faber, in Love and War, 448 pgs. Harcourt, Inc.; Language~PG-13, Sexual Content~PG-13; Violence~PG-13
Fans of Jacky Faber are rejoicing at her return. Jacky Faber is finally headed to England to see what awaits her . . . most likely the hangman’s noose. Unexpectedly, the ship she is on is captured by the French and Jacky is imprisoned and beheaded. . . . well, at least that is what the British Intelligence Service want the world to believe. Now that the infamous Jacky Faber is dead, no one will be looking for her. This allows Jacky to be sent as a spy into France. Her life as a spy begins as a ballet dancer and ends as a messenger in Napoleon’s army where she comes face to face with the famous Emperor. Readers of this series will welcome Jacky’s return to posing as a boy and the troubles/opportunities that causes her. In this novel, Meyer include an increased amount of sexual references and bawdy inferences. However, Jacky’s innocence remains intact. The use of coarse language is minimal and the violence stems from the story being placed in war time.
Upper MS/HS. Essential Allison Madsen~Teen Librarian-SJO Public Librarian
Fans of Jacky Faber are rejoicing at her return. Jacky Faber is finally headed to England to see what awaits her . . . most likely the hangman’s noose. Unexpectedly, the ship she is on is captured by the French and Jacky is imprisoned and beheaded. . . . well, at least that is what the British Intelligence Service want the world to believe. Now that the infamous Jacky Faber is dead, no one will be looking for her. This allows Jacky to be sent as a spy into France. Her life as a spy begins as a ballet dancer and ends as a messenger in Napoleon’s army where she comes face to face with the famous Emperor. Readers of this series will welcome Jacky’s return to posing as a boy and the troubles/opportunities that causes her. In this novel, Meyer include an increased amount of sexual references and bawdy inferences. However, Jacky’s innocence remains intact. The use of coarse language is minimal and the violence stems from the story being placed in war time.
Upper MS/HS. Essential Allison Madsen~Teen Librarian-SJO Public Librarian
November 7, 2018
With the dramatically ironic relationship between Jacky and Jaimy finally ended (the ironic parts but not the romantic parts), Jacky is once again thrust into seemingly impossible adventures. She’s also forced again to pretend to be a boy, which I found very entertaining.
I can’t wait to find out what happens next to this cast of characters!
I can’t wait to find out what happens next to this cast of characters!
February 2, 2023
The first half was a bit slow for me, but was necessary to set up the plot of the second half of the book which was one of my favorite Bloody Jack adventures I’ve read! I love how much historical research you can tell L.A. Meyer put into this book. And as always, the audiobook reader was amazing with her many perfect accents and beautiful singing voice.
August 4, 2018
Such a wonderful series! Of course after book three the adventures are getting a bit wilder and more unbelievable but even so this is so much fun, I really enjoyed reading these stories and I wish it was like that, the world deserves a Jacky Faber, and if it's only as a fictional character so be it, just such a life story is a joy to read; this one was good the belly of the bloodhound is still my favorite, and under the Jolly Roger is a close second this one might be the fourth best which still makes it far better than most books I've read this month or this year. Ok have to read the next one Rapture of the Deep she finally is in the arms of her Love so it appears the formula of unrequited love with multiple men vying for her is about to change have to read the next book to see how that change happens somehow I know it's all going to go wrong before it somehow ends up all right in the end.
August 20, 2017
Still enjoying this series. It is a lot of fun.
December 23, 2024
Jacky is back, and up to her typical shenanigans, which is refreshing, as I didn't enjoy the last book as much as I should have due to a rediculous character. My bonny hooked me from the start and never let up until it's satisfying conclusion, but I will say, it's a bit shorter than it should have been. Jacky spends time both as a spy and a horseman, both of which should have been extended to contain an additional adventure each. Those events are over and done with, and you're given the boot before you're ready. But I did thoroughly enjoy it and I'm looking forward to the next installment.
September 16, 2021
Oh man did I like this book! Finally this story line makes sense! It has a progressive plot! That isn’t scattered all over. I love French history, and this was up my alley. So good!
September 19, 2013
Once again Meyer has created an amazing story that takes place across continents, wraps in a good amount of history and presents a highly entertaining journey. More young men fall for dear Jacky, others from the past show up in her present and at one point, Jacky even becomes a confidant for Napoleon. (Does anyone remember the very beginning of this series when I compared it to the adventures of Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean? That’s still exceptionally accurate.
Scenes that make you laugh with the absurdity of the situation are quickly followed by moments that will have you sobbing or cringing with the painful reality. Jacky’s witty answers to situations never ceases to amaze me and I am still just as delighted with this series as I was when I started reading.
The only caution I have is that where these books started out as good for younger teens, as Jacky has grown, so have the twists and plots in her life. As we progress through the series, my recommendations for readership gets older and older. If there are any parents looking at these books for their teens, it’s probably a good idea to read them and be sure of what you may or may not need to address. This book has Jacky in some highly compromising situations.
And I can’t end this review without another massive thumbs up for the audio books. Even if you’ve read the print versions, these are a must for any Jacky fan. The audio adventures are so beautifully produced and are overflowing with excellence that you do not want to miss them. I’m to the point where I hear the actress reading in my head as I’m reading the print versions and it makes a world of difference in my perceptions of the series. If there aren’t Jacky Faber movies or a television series, these would come close. Trust me – if you’re even close to being curious, go pick up a copy of the audiobooks. You’ll be glad you did!
Review copy provided by the publisher and Listen and Live Audio. Thank you!
Scenes that make you laugh with the absurdity of the situation are quickly followed by moments that will have you sobbing or cringing with the painful reality. Jacky’s witty answers to situations never ceases to amaze me and I am still just as delighted with this series as I was when I started reading.
The only caution I have is that where these books started out as good for younger teens, as Jacky has grown, so have the twists and plots in her life. As we progress through the series, my recommendations for readership gets older and older. If there are any parents looking at these books for their teens, it’s probably a good idea to read them and be sure of what you may or may not need to address. This book has Jacky in some highly compromising situations.
And I can’t end this review without another massive thumbs up for the audio books. Even if you’ve read the print versions, these are a must for any Jacky fan. The audio adventures are so beautifully produced and are overflowing with excellence that you do not want to miss them. I’m to the point where I hear the actress reading in my head as I’m reading the print versions and it makes a world of difference in my perceptions of the series. If there aren’t Jacky Faber movies or a television series, these would come close. Trust me – if you’re even close to being curious, go pick up a copy of the audiobooks. You’ll be glad you did!
Review copy provided by the publisher and Listen and Live Audio. Thank you!
July 10, 2010
Previously, Jacky Faber was a ship's boy, a pirate, a lady, a singer, a housekeeper, a horse racer, and a captain among other things. In the sixth Bloody Jack book, she becomes a prisoner (again!) and a courtesan, a spy, a dancer, and a messenger in Napoleon's army.
I was worried about this one. Whereas I loved the first three of this series, I hated numbers 4 and 5. Thankfully, there is a lot less of Jaimy in this one (he was getting on my nerves) and less singing and dancing and more action. The story begins with Jacky at sea and she gets captured by the Royal Navy. Remember, there is a price on her head. From being a captive of the Royal Navy, Jacky goes to being a captive of the French Navy and then a captive of British Intelligence. The latter has a job for her. Pose as a dancer and courtesan in Paris and report intelligence back to them. (This is back when England and France were going at it.)
Before you know it, Jacky is dressed as a boy again and running errands for Napoleon's army and training new cadets. I forgot to mention Jacky also becomes a drill sergeant. The big question is: Can Jacky maintain her maidenhead while posing as a courtesan? And tho she is a spy for the British, just where do her own loyalties lie?
This didn't have the laugh out loud moments I have come to expect from a Jacky Faber book tho, so four stars.
I was worried about this one. Whereas I loved the first three of this series, I hated numbers 4 and 5. Thankfully, there is a lot less of Jaimy in this one (he was getting on my nerves) and less singing and dancing and more action. The story begins with Jacky at sea and she gets captured by the Royal Navy. Remember, there is a price on her head. From being a captive of the Royal Navy, Jacky goes to being a captive of the French Navy and then a captive of British Intelligence. The latter has a job for her. Pose as a dancer and courtesan in Paris and report intelligence back to them. (This is back when England and France were going at it.)
Before you know it, Jacky is dressed as a boy again and running errands for Napoleon's army and training new cadets. I forgot to mention Jacky also becomes a drill sergeant. The big question is: Can Jacky maintain her maidenhead while posing as a courtesan? And tho she is a spy for the British, just where do her own loyalties lie?
This didn't have the laugh out loud moments I have come to expect from a Jacky Faber book tho, so four stars.
September 11, 2008
Meyer, L.A. My Bonny Light Horseman: Being an Account of the Further Adventures of Jacky Faber, in Love and War, 448 pgs. Harcourt, Inc.; Language~PG-13, Sexual Content~PG-13; Violence~PG-13
Fans of Jacky Faber are rejoicing at her return. Jacky Faber is finally headed to England to see what awaits her . . . most likely the hangman’s noose. Unexpectedly, the ship she is on is captured by the French and Jacky is imprisoned and beheaded. . . . well, at least that is what the British Intelligence Service want the world to believe. Now that the infamous Jacky Faber is dead, no one will be looking for her. This allows Jacky to be sent as a spy into France. Her life as a spy begins as a ballet dancer and ends as a messenger in Napoleon’s army where she comes face to face with the famous Emperor. Readers of this series will welcome Jacky’s return to posing as a boy and the troubles/opportunities that causes her. In this novel, Meyer include an increased amount of sexual references and bawdy inferences. However, Jacky’s innocence remains intact. The use of coarse language is minimal and the violence stems from the story being placed in war time.
Upper MS/HS. Essential Allison Madsen~Teen Librarian-SJO Public Librarian
Fans of Jacky Faber are rejoicing at her return. Jacky Faber is finally headed to England to see what awaits her . . . most likely the hangman’s noose. Unexpectedly, the ship she is on is captured by the French and Jacky is imprisoned and beheaded. . . . well, at least that is what the British Intelligence Service want the world to believe. Now that the infamous Jacky Faber is dead, no one will be looking for her. This allows Jacky to be sent as a spy into France. Her life as a spy begins as a ballet dancer and ends as a messenger in Napoleon’s army where she comes face to face with the famous Emperor. Readers of this series will welcome Jacky’s return to posing as a boy and the troubles/opportunities that causes her. In this novel, Meyer include an increased amount of sexual references and bawdy inferences. However, Jacky’s innocence remains intact. The use of coarse language is minimal and the violence stems from the story being placed in war time.
Upper MS/HS. Essential Allison Madsen~Teen Librarian-SJO Public Librarian
January 2, 2010
One of the better books in the series. This book furthered the plot which was a little at a stand-still and yet kept the characters interesting. Jean Paul de Valdon was a very interesting character to watch as he grew from snobby aristocrat to intriguing lover. I also liked the reappearance of Randall Trevelyne. He added some underlying conflict between him and Jean Paul. I also liked that Jacky got to be back in a situation where she was in command of a battle unit of some sort. One thing I would have liked different was that it was quite short, where the beginning of her mission where she was an artistic dancer should have been extended. The characters of the dancers are sure to come up again and they should have been elaborated more.
Jaimy! I want to shoot him. he's always there, in the background, where she can see him barely, then she disappears and he follows her around waiting for her to see him. He's so boring! The character has no elaboration or anything interesting about him at all! Her other love interests are far more interesting.
All in all it was a good book, but could have been better...
Jaimy! I want to shoot him. he's always there, in the background, where she can see him barely, then she disappears and he follows her around waiting for her to see him. He's so boring! The character has no elaboration or anything interesting about him at all! Her other love interests are far more interesting.
All in all it was a good book, but could have been better...
December 18, 2009
As always, can't get enough of that Jacky! I loved the first half, the second half was only so-so for me. Since Katie did a review of all the possible love-interests for Jacky, I will do the same...since mine are slightly different than hers.and loving.
1. Jaimy...her betrothed. Who else chases her around the world and is always there for her? All the other men love her, but never hang in there forever.
2. Joseph Jared...I love his cockiness and it is well earned. :)
3. Jean Paul...he is so sweet and loving. He really loves Jacky and that makes me like him...he isn't just chasing a pretty girl.
4. Lord Allen...love his cockiness and wit as well.
5. Randall Trevelyne...I liked him, even though his bragging drove me crazy, but then I relented and liked him more by the end of this book when he got a little depth.
6. Robin, Padraic, Ishmael, etc. Hardly worth mentioning since they are just passing flirtations...
1. Jaimy...her betrothed. Who else chases her around the world and is always there for her? All the other men love her, but never hang in there forever.
2. Joseph Jared...I love his cockiness and it is well earned. :)
3. Jean Paul...he is so sweet and loving. He really loves Jacky and that makes me like him...he isn't just chasing a pretty girl.
4. Lord Allen...love his cockiness and wit as well.
5. Randall Trevelyne...I liked him, even though his bragging drove me crazy, but then I relented and liked him more by the end of this book when he got a little depth.
6. Robin, Padraic, Ishmael, etc. Hardly worth mentioning since they are just passing flirtations...
February 3, 2009
I liked this book, because I like the Jacky Faber books, but I am ready for an end in the series. In was harder for me to be involved in the plot than in book 5, but it was a quicker read. I enjoyed the book, but it wasn't the best Bloody Jack book there. I think I'm ready for her to just hook up with Jaimey and be down with it. The book is about Jacky forced in to be a spy, and her adventures as a female spy, in some parts she is actually known to be a woman, and in other parts she is up to her usual tricks of being dressed like a man. While pretending to be the opposite sex, and still in her espionage work, she goes to war. It was interesting, I enjoyed it, it was fun, just not the best out there. When I was finished part of me wanted to be done, and part of me wanted to continue reading the life of Jacky. I very much like the series.
April 19, 2015
Again this installment was pretty amazing, made more so by the superior reading of the audiobook narrator. This is the first one of the Jacky Faber books that I listened to instead of read and I wasn't sure I would like it. At first, the cockney accent of the reader got on my nerves, but I trudged through and became thoroughly convinced that this is THE way to experience these books. The acting was superb as was the writing. I was sorry to recently read of the death of the author, L. A. Meyer, but I'm glad to know that he did finish the series before he died. It was very considerate of him. I think I'm about halfway done with the whole series, and I look forward to continuing with Jacky's adventures. I'm not sure why these books aren't a bigger deal than they are, as entertainment this pure and unfaltering is rare.
March 19, 2016
Yes, I know, I can't believe I'm still reading this series either...
But who can resist yet another book about Jacky miraculously averting death, somehow missing Jaime AGAIN, stringing along every guy in sight, pretending to be a boy, flashing some skin, and leading a battle or two?
It really makes me wonder, since the author is a man, if she is indeed what most men are attracted to. Can some single lady please test this theory and let me know? Thanks.
Oh, but I also noticed in this one, how Forrest Gumpish she's become, rubbing elbows with famous people, being at famous moments in history, etc. BRO-THER.
Jacky, as novel as she was in the beginning of the series, has accumulated way too many tropes than is fashionable.
But then, she is still just 16, so one can hardly expect her to act like an adult or anything.
But who can resist yet another book about Jacky miraculously averting death, somehow missing Jaime AGAIN, stringing along every guy in sight, pretending to be a boy, flashing some skin, and leading a battle or two?
It really makes me wonder, since the author is a man, if she is indeed what most men are attracted to. Can some single lady please test this theory and let me know? Thanks.
Oh, but I also noticed in this one, how Forrest Gumpish she's become, rubbing elbows with famous people, being at famous moments in history, etc. BRO-THER.
Jacky, as novel as she was in the beginning of the series, has accumulated way too many tropes than is fashionable.
But then, she is still just 16, so one can hardly expect her to act like an adult or anything.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 483 reviews