Captivated by the Captain

Fabled Love #2

by Amanda Mariel

Alternate cover edition can be found here

What happens when an American heiress to a shipping company crosses paths with a pirate?

Miss Prudence Drake desires nothing more than to return to America and pick up the pieces of her life. After being held captive on the Black Dawn and witnessing her papa's murder, the last thing she wants is to find herself in the hands of another pirate-even if he is handsome and honorable.

Captain Jasper Blackmore has forsaken his past, walking away from England's shores in search of a new adventure after the war left him physically scarred and jilted by the one lady he dared to love. An American hoyden could never fit into his world despite his attraction to her.

Can two people whose life paths are at odds find common ground?

Genres: Historical Romance, Pirates, Romance, Novella, Historical Fiction, Historical

73 pages, ebook

Published December 1, 2016

About the author

Amanda Mariel, an accomplished wordsmith, holds dual master's degrees in liberal arts and education, specializing in the captivating realms of history and literature. Beyond her academic pursuits, she embraces the joyful chaos of motherhood, tending to both her cherished teenagers and her trio of adored fur babies. Among them, a noble Bernese Mountain Dog named Blaze, and two cats of distinct character, Ezra and Puff, share their home.

A USA Today Bestselling luminary, Amanda Mariel conjures vivid tapestries of eras long past, drawing inspiration from the languid cadence of days gone by. With pen poised and imagination unfurled, she traverses the annals of time, weaving tales that illuminate historical landscapes with finesse and flair. Her creative spirit finds respite in reading, traversing new horizons through travel, and capturing moments through the lenses of both her camera and artistic endeavors. Yet, it is in the embrace of family that she finds her truest sanctuary.

To delve deeper into Amanda's captivating world visit www.amandamariel.com. While there, an invitation to join her newsletter promises a gateway to the latest from Amanda Mariel's literary treasury, and an opportunity to claim a complimentary eBook.

Amanda's passion extends to her readers, welcoming their voices and stories into her narrative realm. Engage with her through email at amanda@amandamariel.com, or connect via her social Media channels.

Facebook: facebook.com/AuthorAmandaMarie1
Twitter: twitter.com/AmandaMarieAuth
BookBub: bookbub.com/authors/amanda-mariel
Instagram: instagram.com/authoramandamariel
TikTok: tiktok.com/@amandamarielromance

Amidst the prose and parchment, Amanda Mariel etches a profound connection, bridging eras, hearts, and minds, creating a legacy that resonates through the corridors of time.

Reviews

[Andrea · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5

Well, I don't think this one was for me. It was a light and fluffy historical romance, but it was a little too cutsie and rushed for moi.
It was so sugary sweet it almost gave me a toothache.

But if that is your thing, and your looking fora quick read then check it out bc its free on KU atm

[Caitlyn Lynch · Rating 2 out of 5]

There is too much missing from this book. Why wasn't Prudence ravished by the pirates she was first kidnapped by? Or was she... she was tied to a 'bloody bed' after all. We just have no idea, because it's never mentioned by her or by Jasper (who I'd think might have been at least a little curious). No idea how long she'd been aboard that ship, either, after her father was killed... she didn't seem to have any grief over that apart from one moment of tears. She cried more over Jasper telling her that he planned to be honourable, which made no sense whatsoever.

I fully expected the plot to turn out to be that her would-be fiance had sent the pirates after them to kill her father and take control of the shipping company, and Jasper would discover this after leaving Prudence with him... but it wasn't that interesting.

There are also too many proof-reading errors... things like 'continence' instead of 'countenance', 'passed' instead of 'past', 'navel' instead of 'naval', 'shear' instead of 'sheer'... it's disappointing because this has the bones of an interesting story but feels like it has been executed in a slipshod rush. About twice as long and a lot more thoroughly edited, and I might be able to give it more than two stars.

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/20/2021)! 🎁

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delightful story. I loved the h and H characters.

[Aleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted on lampshadereader.com

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.




Pirates. Give me more pirates! Captivated by the Captain by Amanda Mariel is a short, but emotionally packed read. It’s basically good vs bad pirates and Prudence has to figure out which one she has ended up with.

(Okay, maybe not exactly like these two, although that would be fun too :D )

Poor Pru, it’s no wonder why she doesn’t trust Jasper when she meets him. Pirates cannot be trusted; certainly not a handsome one. After witnessing her father’s demise at the hands of ruthless pirates, Pru pegs all under the same category. After being rescued by Jasper, the story focuses on their relationship and the hurdles they both have to overcome. Trust. It’s always about trust. She can’t trust him, he can’t trust her basically because she’s a female. A female broke his heart a long time ago after all.

Jasper, the scarred hero ( I love me some scarred heroes), had a more involved past. He brought the most substance to the table and I enjoyed his failed attempts to be exasperated with Prudence. Yes, she’s gorgeous and doesn’t realize that her looks will distract his pirate crew.

“There is nothing about me that warrants distraction. I am quite certain you are mistaken.”

Really Pru? Really? I had to roll my eyes at that statement. She somehow could not grasp the fact that a pirate crew could act untoward. Besides the fact that she was captured by the worst kind before this.

Other than this, I loved their love story. It was a sweet, headbutting, love that is always amusing to read.

A little note...

Can be read as a standalone.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written book with a cast of strong characters centering on Jasper and Prudence. The author does a great job developing their story and paints her scenes perfectly. She takes you into their lives with chemistry and steam and kept me turning the pages with the action, intrigue and adventure. She moves the story quickly and smoothly and delivers an entertaining read.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.

[Gemma G. Gegargas · Rating 2 out of 5]

Llevo un tiempo de sequía lectora, no encuentro ese libro que me atrape, y puede ser que eso condicione la opinión que tengo sobre este libro.

Es un libro corto y fácil de leer pero para mi gusto faltó de todo un poco. Todo muy precipitado y escaso. Los personajes tampoco me transmitieron mucho.

[Özlem · Rating 1 out of 5]

Yorum yapmaya değmez.

[Maria Dariotis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Shipping Heiress Falls for Dashing Pirate!

After witnessing her father's death at the hands of vile pirates Prudence Drake is held prisoner on the Black Dawn , fearful for her life all she keeps on thinking Is how much worse her predicament can get when all she can hear is mayhem taking place above. Once again she finds herself face to face with a different pirate and she vows she won't go down without a fight.....even though he's the most handsome man/pirate she's ever seen.

Captain Jasper Blackmore can't get over the spitfire that has dared to clash words with him, never in his life has he come across a woman like her! She's defiant and isn't scared of him or his scars she even dared to touch.
An American no less! Women! Makes no difference from where they're from they're not to be trusted! He can't trust her, she won't trust him, he has his heart to shelter she's an heiress with an empire to run but their attraction can't be denied! Will he let her go even though in his hearts of hearts he knows she's the only woman for him? Can Prudence let the man that's her destiny -even though he's infuriating and she knows he wants her- take her back to America!
Once again Amanda Mariel has a confection of a story she takes you on a ship with pirates and you feel the sway of the ocean. Vividly portraying Prudances fall will have the reader holding their breath not knowing if Jasper will be her hero! An enjoyable quick read!

I received an ARC from the author for my honest opinion, opinions are my own and not influenced be the author.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was supposed to be smooth sailing for Prudence Drake, her ladies' maid and her father. Nothing went as planned as they were attached by pirates, and her life changed forever. That she finds herself rescued by another pirate (and a handsome one at that!) is unbelievable to her. This is the worse possible scenario to her. There is no way she can trust a pirate, and yet she is drawn to him. Captain Jasper Blackmore has a haunted past, having been left scarred fighting a war for the crown and then becoming heart broken when the lady he loves leaves him for his brother! How could he possibly be attracted to this American who wants to be anywhere but on his ship? After all, she is a female and not to be trusted.

Can Prudence and Jasper fight the attraction that they feel for each other? They do have common ground with their sailing backgrounds, but can they overcome their fears?

I so loved this story that was full of emotion. I found myself rooting for Jasper, because he was so hurt inside. He was so afraid to move forward in his life to maybe attain something more for himself, and I completely connected with that feeling. The book was well-written and the characters were complex and well-developed and very likable. It is an excellent story that will draw you in from start to finish. Highly recommended.

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivated by the Captain (Fabled Love Book 2) by Amanda Mariel is another must read romance. Although, Book 2 in "Fabled Love", it can be read as a stand alone.
Can an American heiress to a shipping company and a hoyden, find a HEA with a Captain, and pirate? Miss Prudence Drake and Captain Jasper Blackmore, make a compelling, complex and exciting couple. Prudence is feisty and doesn't know her own beauty. Jasper is scarred both inside and outside. Will they be able to work out their differences to find common ground and a unwavering love? Or will they only find hearbreak? This story will grab you from the start and hold you spellbound throughout!
A steady paced with engaging characters, compelling storyline, thrilling and emotionally charged story. A Novella. Short but packed full of emotion!
Once again, Ms. Mariel has written a steadfast, and intriguing story. She never fails to amaze me with her masterful and brilliantly written storytelling. Another must read by the wonderful and unstoppable Amanda Mariel! I can not wait for the next installment of the "Fabled Love" series. Pick up a copy for yourself, you won't be sorry!

Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR

[Kelly Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rarely read historical romances that have pirates, but I loved this one! I was drawn in from the start with Prudence and her papa then shocked by his murder. I liked that they had a bit of a connection from the start and that they both had their secrets.

Prudence is a strong girl that knows what she has to do and won't let anything get in her way. I loved her strong will and that she knew when she could trust Jasper and let everything out.

Jasper may be a pirate, but he is still a gentleman and an honorable one. I loved his story and how he was quick to realize what he needed to do. His secrets will warm our heart and pull at it too.

This is a great quick read!

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 3 out of 5]

A passionate historical pirate romance, “Captivated by the Captain” is the second book in the “Fabled Love” series but can be read as a stand-alone.

Read full review in the 2017 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Molly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all of Amanda Mariel's books. I love the characters Prudence and Jasper . She wanted to go back to America after being held captive. Until captain jasper finds her. I am not spoil the story it is a very good read.

[Jamie Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Delectable Pirate Robin Hood

Audiobook Review:
For a novella, the hero of this book is surprisingly complex and in a completely wonderful way! In general, I'm not much of a fan of pirate romance, but I know and enjoy this author's work enough to trust her. She, and this story, did not disappoint. The heroine is strong and resilient, and after the first scene with her and her father, I was sorry we did not get to see more of him. He certainly raised a tough young lady who wasn't afraid to stand up against those physically stronger, and she had a clear sense of her duties and obligations, though she probably would not attach those words to them because doing so was just a part of who she intrinsically was. The hero isn't a simple pirate captain. He's a wounded Napoleonic War hero who was a privateer—essentially a pirate acting at the government's behest—before he struck out on his own. But his piracy is surprisingly noble. He not only gives all his gains to support an orphanage, but he commits acts of piracy against bad pirates, taking their ill-gotten gains from them and also saving their victims, as he did with our heroine when they met—even though she fought him tooth and nail because she, of course, didn't know the sort of man—or pirate—he was. His crew is also a delight, especially the ones we get to know personally on their voyage. I could feel right along with the heroine not wanting to leave them—and the hero—when they brought her to her final destination. I enjoyed the narrator of this book. Usually, this author uses female narrators, but this time she chose to use a swoony-sounding English male narrator. Perfect for Regency romance. This book was delicious fun. Highly recommended.

I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ah, a feisty wench and a gentleman pirate! What could be better than that? Since Prudence’s father owned a shipping company in Boston, she was very familiar with the running of ships. He was heading to London on business and she begged to go with him. Unfortuately their ship was attacked by pirates and she was the only survivor. Jasper was the second son of a duke. He had fought at Waterloo, was a privateer for the Crown and now captained a pirate ship that only attacked other pirate ships. He snagged Prudence from the Black Dawn and sank that ship with its evil crew on board. His plan was to offer Prudence protection. What he got was a battle of wills between Prudence and himself. She was terrified, defiant and aggressive, and he was caught between admiration and fear for her safety. This is a story full of tension, teasing, emotional turmoil, near misses, and steamy kisses Betrayed by the woman he had once loved, Jasper vowed never to leave his heart that vulnerable again. However, he never counted on Prudence, and even then he fought to push her away. This story will inspire your ire and break your heart before it reaches its happy ending, but you will not be able to put it down! Loved it!.

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

[Star-Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who doesn’t love a good pirate story? And this is a great pirate romance about a good pirate who seeks to rid the seas of the bad marauding pirates and help protect merchant ships travel the open seas easily. When Jasper Blackmore, Captain of The Marion, attacks the pirate ship Black Dawn he ends up with a much more precious cargo than he had expected in Miss Prudence Drake, the now heiress to Drake Shipping after losing her Pappa to the Blackbeard Captain Gregor’s crew of the Black Dawn. This titillating story has Jasper, is also the second son of a Duke and a war hero, trying to run from a past hurt and Prudence having to trust Jasper not only with her life but unfortunately with her heart too.
I will admit I had to overlook how quickly Prudence recovers from her injuries abroad ship as the author’s right in fictional leniency and it did not take away the overall enjoyment of this book. In fact, without all of her scampering up nets and falling from nets, the book would have lost quite a bit of its charm. This is about a three hour read with a spice content of passionate kisses with a few harrowing scenes, many delightful characters set in the 1800’s mostly on the open seas upon a pirate ship and I couldn’t put down once I started.

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

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

We have a pirate and a daughter of a ship builder both keeping secrets!
Prudence Drake daughter of Mr Drake the shipping magnate begged for one last voyage with him and her lady’s maid!
After a brutal attack she is only one left and captured again by another pirate/privateer she is very reluctant to reveal her secrets!
Jasper Blackmore a Dukes second son has mad a life aboard the seas! He was betrayed in love and the sea is his new love!
Prudence requests they bring her back to Boston safely but keeps her secrets! As she and Jasper grow closer his fear of rejection starts to build walls between them!? Can she over his fears before he sails out of her life? These two belong together if they would just open their eyes!.

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

[Debbie Caswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prudence Drake is aboard her fathers ship when it is taken by pirates and she is facing a fate worse than death until she is "rescued" when another pirate ship takes the one she is been held prisoner on. Captain Jasper Blackmore s determined to take her to America but can they both get over their fears she can't trust him because he's a pirate and he can't trust her because she is a woman but once again love will find a way. This is the second book in the fabled love series but can be read as a standalone. I have read quite a few of Amanda's books now and have to say she has definitely improved she is now a top notch writer

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

[B.A. Malisch · Rating 1 out of 5]

The writing, plot, character development, and overall storytelling elements are all weak. But hey, pirates. Although, the pirates really are not that exciting or pirate-y, unfortunately.

Overall, this was a swing and a miss for me. I hoped for a gem, but it really fell flat. It's basically emotionless, and none of the characters have any depth. For being such a short book, I couldn't wait for it to end already. Something about it feels way to clinical, and there's just not enough believable adventure and excitement.

Also, this should technically be labeled historical romance, though it didn't feel like there was very much that was historically accurate with this one.

The one thing that I did like was the narrator for the audiobook (James Young).

[Rose Seals · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very well written, full of drama, love, romance, pirates, sadness and twists. Jasper is the captain of a pirate ship that does good for some but not for others. He attacks other pirate ships and using the money to help an orphanage and other good reasons. As he attacks a ship that he has been after, he find Prudence, a young lady who was being held captive against her will. Prudence had lost her father and friend during the attack on their ship. After the rescue, the plan is to take her back to America to her life. They both fall in love but for reasons in his past , he needs to deal with. Happy they get to have a happily ever after. Would recommend to everyone.

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

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the Fabled Love series was fantastic and I cannot wait to read the other two books I have. A pirate saved a young woman then he fights the love he has for her till the very end a true romance. I could not put this critter down. The last I looked I am the proud owner of almost 20 books of Ms. Mariel and each one is an incredible read. This book was as captivating as all the other with great characters, an awesome plot and wonder writing. This is so far a simply great series. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Brandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Highly Recommend OVER 18 DUE TO CONTENT. This storyline is emotional and full of intrigue.
Prudence Drake talked her dad into letting her go sailing to London with him and he decides to let her go. The unexpected happens and she finds herself in trouble.
Captain Blackmore of Marion notices a ship with damage heading in there direction. When he notice it is the Black Dawn ship he gets his crew ready to attack.
Captain Blackmore finds a damsel below deck on the Black Dawn and takes her aboard his ship.

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

[Alias11 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story, especially Jasper and Prudence's characters and their battle of wills. Jasper is an honorable pirate, with a noble background, while Prudence is an independent, if occasionally willful, shipping heiress. When Prudence ends up in Jasper's care, both have secrets and agendas that they aren't willing to share. The ensuing battle of wills and unexpected UST made for entertaining reading. The ending and epilogue were very satisfying.

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

[Amber Keehn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this fun, historical novella—especially the dynamic between Jasper and Prudence and their battle of wills. Jasper is an honorable pirate with a noble background, while Prudence is an independent (if somewhat willful) shipping heiress. When circumstances land her in Jasper’s care, both are guarding secrets and pursuing their own agendas. The resulting tension and unexpected lust made for a fun, engaging read.

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

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with every single one of Amanda's books I couldn't stop reading this book once I started reading it..

I'm not usually a big fan of pirate stories but Jasper had me falling in love from the beginning with the way he treated Prudence and I loved the interaction that these two characters had throughout the entire story..

This story had love, sadness, humor and a happily ever after.. that a full length novel offers even though it's a short story..

I can't wait to jump into the next book from Amanda

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable story. I love pirate stories and this one didn’t disappoint. I enjoyed Prudence as she is a lady before her time. At the beginning her father calls her “Poppit”. That just puts a smile on my face. This is filled with wonderful characters besides the two main ones.
I did listen to this on audio. This is my first with James Young as the narrator. His Accent was delicious to listen to.

[☘KathyD☘ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good story and I liked it, but it wasn’t great. Prudence is quite the independent American who ends up in the hands of pirates after her father is killed. She then ends up with another band of pirates when Jasper and his crew take down the “bad” pirates. Prudence and Jasper tap dance around each other for most of the book. I think I would have enjoyed it more if their relationship was built up better.

[Christina Luberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a short read. This is Prudence and Jasper's story. What happens when pirates take you and you father is killed. What happens when another pirate takes you from that one? What will happen when Jasper takes her? Will he bring her to America? What secrets will come out about them? Will they start having feelings for each other?.

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

[Anne Curry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy afternoon read. Story of a captains daughter caught by pirates and saved by pirates and the resulting drama.

Nothing deep. Fairly predictable storyline but cute just the same PG13.

Forced proximity, captured, loss, betrayal, love, wanting to do the right thing (which often ends up being wrong), ships, repairing relationships.

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