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Pirates & Petticoats/The Hearts of Adventure #5
Redeeming The Pirate
Love American Historical Romance?
He steals for the French crown.She heals for the Catholic church
He will heal her heart.She will steal his.
15% PROFITS FUND BREAST CANCER FUNDING @NBCF
EXCERPT:
“Dis de sick girl child?” Miss Kalia approached the wagon, swaying like seaweed with the tide, perhaps due to aching joints, but on a night like this it was bewitching and unnerving, like a adder mesmerizing prey. Her brightly patched skirt was subdued by the moonlight into shades of grayish red, green, blue and yellow. Her silver hair was piled high on her head, and adorned with colorful feathers which poked out in every direction. A streak of white paint trailed from one ear, ran along her jawline across her chin, then ended at other ear, like a gruesome grin.
Eva gave her a silent nod. The old woman had predicted this.
“A dark-hearted mon wit a sick girl-child ‘bout to cross you path. Him be drawn to de light in you. You light— it might can save him, but be wary. Him dark is strong. De dark wants to pull you in him doomed shadow.”
He steals for the French crown.She heals for the Catholic church
He will heal her heart.She will steal his.
French Privateer, Captain Drago Gamponetti is given one final mission from his employer, the king of France: reclaim religious relics from a New Orleans cathedral and bring them back. Trouble begins when he's forced by a mysterious, veiled, novitiate nun to swear on the Bible to protect the very items he was instructed to steal.
Worse, 60 British warships have amassed in Negril Bay, Jamaica, preparing to attack New Orleans. He must retrieve the sacred relics before the British arrive and seize the city.
Novitiate nun and healer, Eva Trudeau hides more than her face behind the veil. The convent has been her safe haven since she crawled, beaten and bloody, to its door nine years ago. When an old enemy re-surfaces and threatens to drag her back into the dark underworld from where she’d escaped, both she and her dark pirate captain stand to lose everything they’ve fought so hard to protect...including each other.
Either commit treason or betray the woman he secretly loves. Betraying one sends him to the guillotine, the other straight to hell.
This series is about spirited, independent women and rakish bad boy pirates, smugglers and scoundrels, wrapped up in women's action and adventure. If you enjoy romantic action and adventure, American historical romance, action, action and adventure romance fiction, historical romance or women's fiction, you'll love the Pirates & Petticoats series.
15% PROFITS FUND BREAST CANCER FUNDING @NBCF
EXCERPT:
“Dis de sick girl child?” Miss Kalia approached the wagon, swaying like seaweed with the tide, perhaps due to aching joints, but on a night like this it was bewitching and unnerving, like a adder mesmerizing prey. Her brightly patched skirt was subdued by the moonlight into shades of grayish red, green, blue and yellow. Her silver hair was piled high on her head, and adorned with colorful feathers which poked out in every direction. A streak of white paint trailed from one ear, ran along her jawline across her chin, then ended at other ear, like a gruesome grin.
Eva gave her a silent nod. The old woman had predicted this.
“A dark-hearted mon wit a sick girl-child ‘bout to cross you path. Him be drawn to de light in you. You light— it might can save him, but be wary. Him dark is strong. De dark wants to pull you in him doomed shadow.”
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 22, 2018
28 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
Chloe Flowers
20 books343 followersChloe's Pirates & Petticoats series is now available in a sweet, clean and wholesome version called The Hearts of Adventure!
Chloe supports the National Breast Cancer Foundation
Chloe Flowers is an award-winning author, the recipient of the University of Akron, Wayne College 2018 Writer of the Year Award, and writes small town contemporary women’s fiction, and historical women’s action and adventure romance novels about scoundrels, pirates, and spunky, independent heroines.
Chloe’s constantly looking for the next adventure. Her pets have always been named after her favorite characters or action heroes: Indiana, Luke, Gimli, Thelma, Rocket, Forrest, Al Giordino, Severus, Mushu, Mérida, Gibbs, Jack…Dead Pool (he’s a goldfish).
Chloe’s biggest fault is the apparent inability to say “no” whether it’s in response to a call for aid or a double-dog-dare to hike home through 30 acres of a snow-covered forest at midnight…during a full moon. It was early morning during said adventure when she came upon a group of sheriff’s deputies searching for a lost girl. So, of course she offered to help (turns out, they were searching for her).
She has a weakness for good red wine, Calvin & Hobbes comics, pie, dark chocolate and brown-eyed guys with beards, which is probably why she digs pirates, men in uniform and treasure hunters and writes about action and adventure and of course romance, which is the greatest adventure of all.
Chloe supports the National Breast Cancer Foundation
Chloe Flowers is an award-winning author, the recipient of the University of Akron, Wayne College 2018 Writer of the Year Award, and writes small town contemporary women’s fiction, and historical women’s action and adventure romance novels about scoundrels, pirates, and spunky, independent heroines.
Chloe’s constantly looking for the next adventure. Her pets have always been named after her favorite characters or action heroes: Indiana, Luke, Gimli, Thelma, Rocket, Forrest, Al Giordino, Severus, Mushu, Mérida, Gibbs, Jack…Dead Pool (he’s a goldfish).
Chloe’s biggest fault is the apparent inability to say “no” whether it’s in response to a call for aid or a double-dog-dare to hike home through 30 acres of a snow-covered forest at midnight…during a full moon. It was early morning during said adventure when she came upon a group of sheriff’s deputies searching for a lost girl. So, of course she offered to help (turns out, they were searching for her).
She has a weakness for good red wine, Calvin & Hobbes comics, pie, dark chocolate and brown-eyed guys with beards, which is probably why she digs pirates, men in uniform and treasure hunters and writes about action and adventure and of course romance, which is the greatest adventure of all.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
May 29, 2018
My Opinion:
I thought this was an OK book. I was not dragged into this or even compelled to like Eva. I didn't feel anything for her. I was never invested. I also felt this book dragged on so much. In fact at some points I was down right bored. The love scenes were rushed and almost looked over, an afterthought by the author. I didn't care for this style. I want a romance scene to drag me in and make me feel like I am there with them. I never got there with this book. In fact it seemed like everything but the love scenes were talked to death. This of course was what I was waiting for in the book and it fell pretty flat for me.
The author takes us on a journey with two of the most unlikely lovers - Eva and Drago. Drago is a pirate that is sent on a mission and Eva is a nun in training and needs his help. Yes, they are unlikely lovers but it sorta works for the book. Drago has taken two children under his wing and that made him more lovable to me. Eva was a thief turned Nun which didn't really work for me. The book had some history in it that I really enjoyed. I liked those aspects of the book. I felt like I was taken back in time with them. What I didn't like was how it was so long and drawn out. Just when you think it was the ending something else was thrown in and beat to death thus making it even longer. Overall, I thought the meat of the story was ok just not how lengthy it was.
I do love this cover - it gets much cover love from me!
I give this book 3 of 5 stars!
I thought this was an OK book. I was not dragged into this or even compelled to like Eva. I didn't feel anything for her. I was never invested. I also felt this book dragged on so much. In fact at some points I was down right bored. The love scenes were rushed and almost looked over, an afterthought by the author. I didn't care for this style. I want a romance scene to drag me in and make me feel like I am there with them. I never got there with this book. In fact it seemed like everything but the love scenes were talked to death. This of course was what I was waiting for in the book and it fell pretty flat for me.
The author takes us on a journey with two of the most unlikely lovers - Eva and Drago. Drago is a pirate that is sent on a mission and Eva is a nun in training and needs his help. Yes, they are unlikely lovers but it sorta works for the book. Drago has taken two children under his wing and that made him more lovable to me. Eva was a thief turned Nun which didn't really work for me. The book had some history in it that I really enjoyed. I liked those aspects of the book. I felt like I was taken back in time with them. What I didn't like was how it was so long and drawn out. Just when you think it was the ending something else was thrown in and beat to death thus making it even longer. Overall, I thought the meat of the story was ok just not how lengthy it was.
I do love this cover - it gets much cover love from me!
I give this book 3 of 5 stars!
May 7, 2018
I really enjoyed reading 'Redeeming the Pirate' and made a welcome change from the usual Historical Romance books that i generally read. I cannot remember the last time that I read a book where pirates, action and adventure are concerned. I am not going to write what the story is about, as i do prefer one to read for themselves, but i do highly recommend. It is the first time that i have read a book by Chloe Flowers and i'm sure it will not be the last.
My thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers. This is my honest review.
My thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers. This is my honest review.
April 26, 2018
A prediction, a pirate turned privateer and a novitiate nun with secrets make for an exciting, humorous, amorous and delightful read. It's revolved around the battle of New Orleans.
Drago was once a pirate and now works for the king of France, but looking to branch out to work for himself. That is, if everything goes to plan.
Eva is a novitiate and a healer who was rescued by the nuns when she was eight years old. Her past has left her scarred and she considers herself to be repulsive and hides behind a veil. Her aim is to become a nun.
Drago has taken responsibility for his friend's twins when one of them requires medical treatment. He turns to Eva for help and on their way to retrieve fresh water, they bump into the well known white witch who delivers a prediction. It's a riddle at this point, but could she really see in the future?
Eva has been given the task to go to New Orleans to warn the church of a pending theft whilst Drago is on a mission to steal these relics as his last mission for the king of France. He sees this as the perfect opportunity to obtain information about his mission and then move on to his future plans. His plan in thwarted when Eva forces him into a vow to help her. Does making a vow under duress count?
The British are planning to invade New Orleans and this war could well be the distraction that Drago needs to accomplish his mission. The thing is that he is torn between his obligations to the twins, his loyalty to the king and his burgeoning love for Eva. After she was attacked on the ship, he has sworn to protect her! When her past comes to haunt her, he is even more determined, but she discovers by accident that he hasn't been completely honest with her. Can he redeem himself and regain her trust?
Although lighthearted in places, this historical novel is full of danger and intrigue. The storyline is interesting, especially as some of the contents are based on real events. The romance is rather sweet and I like the way Drago sees the inner beauty of Eva instead of what most sees on the surface. All in all a brilliant read with some lovable and fun characters, and a solid plot.
I was kindly issued with an eARC and the views expressed are my personal opinion.
Drago was once a pirate and now works for the king of France, but looking to branch out to work for himself. That is, if everything goes to plan.
Eva is a novitiate and a healer who was rescued by the nuns when she was eight years old. Her past has left her scarred and she considers herself to be repulsive and hides behind a veil. Her aim is to become a nun.
Drago has taken responsibility for his friend's twins when one of them requires medical treatment. He turns to Eva for help and on their way to retrieve fresh water, they bump into the well known white witch who delivers a prediction. It's a riddle at this point, but could she really see in the future?
Eva has been given the task to go to New Orleans to warn the church of a pending theft whilst Drago is on a mission to steal these relics as his last mission for the king of France. He sees this as the perfect opportunity to obtain information about his mission and then move on to his future plans. His plan in thwarted when Eva forces him into a vow to help her. Does making a vow under duress count?
The British are planning to invade New Orleans and this war could well be the distraction that Drago needs to accomplish his mission. The thing is that he is torn between his obligations to the twins, his loyalty to the king and his burgeoning love for Eva. After she was attacked on the ship, he has sworn to protect her! When her past comes to haunt her, he is even more determined, but she discovers by accident that he hasn't been completely honest with her. Can he redeem himself and regain her trust?
Although lighthearted in places, this historical novel is full of danger and intrigue. The storyline is interesting, especially as some of the contents are based on real events. The romance is rather sweet and I like the way Drago sees the inner beauty of Eva instead of what most sees on the surface. All in all a brilliant read with some lovable and fun characters, and a solid plot.
I was kindly issued with an eARC and the views expressed are my personal opinion.
May 23, 2018
Redemption and romance...
Drago Gamponetti is a pirate...okay, a privateer, as he frequently mentions. A privateer who steals for the French, this will be his last mission, or so he believes.
Enter Eva, a scarred and vulnerable thief who is a noviatiate nun-healer. Summoned to heal a sick young girl, Jacqueline, Eva meets the pirate.
Clashes between the two lead to love, but is it possible to change a blackguard? To redeem a man whose soul is irredeemable? Can Eva learn to trust him? Is he trustworthy?
Set during the time of Battle of New Orleans, this romance has intrigue, humor, and swashbuckling moments.
Only real complaint is the over abundance of typos, missing words, wrong words, etc. An extra set of eyes during proofreading might have prevented many of them. It is hoped that the print version has been corrected as the story is otherwise decent and a great addition to the other Pirates and Petticoats series novels.
Drago Gamponetti is a pirate...okay, a privateer, as he frequently mentions. A privateer who steals for the French, this will be his last mission, or so he believes.
Enter Eva, a scarred and vulnerable thief who is a noviatiate nun-healer. Summoned to heal a sick young girl, Jacqueline, Eva meets the pirate.
Clashes between the two lead to love, but is it possible to change a blackguard? To redeem a man whose soul is irredeemable? Can Eva learn to trust him? Is he trustworthy?
Set during the time of Battle of New Orleans, this romance has intrigue, humor, and swashbuckling moments.
Only real complaint is the over abundance of typos, missing words, wrong words, etc. An extra set of eyes during proofreading might have prevented many of them. It is hoped that the print version has been corrected as the story is otherwise decent and a great addition to the other Pirates and Petticoats series novels.
added-it
November 17, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/17/2022)! 🎁
April 6, 2018
I was hoping for a little more swashbuckling, that being said, it's based on a turbulent historical time. Think Pirates of the Caribbean meets Anna Karenina. I enjoyed this book enough, there were some surprises I didn't expect and there were times I laughed and wanted to slap someone so that's always good. It's a good time passer and well fitting for the genre, just don't expect perfect historical accuracy (though the author did a pretty good job!).
May 7, 2018
French Privateer, Captain Drago Gamponetti is given one final mission from his employer, the king of France: reclaim religious relics from a New Orleans cathedral and bring them back. Trouble begins when he's forced by a mysterious, veiled, novitiate nun to swear on the Bible to protect the very items he was instructed to steal. Worse, 60 British warships have amassed in Negril Bay, Jamaica, preparing to attack New Orleans. He must retrieve the sacred relics before the British arrive and seize the city. Novitiate nun and healer, Eva Trudeau has secrets, and hides more than her face behind the veil. The convent has been her safe haven since she crawled, beaten and bloody, to its door nine years ago.
This is the first book I’ve read in the series & I’m hooked & will have to get the other books in the series. A well written page turning book that kept me on the edge of my seat at times, there were twists & turns that captivated me from the start & I read well into the night to finish it.The characters are well drawn & very likeable. The story flowed really well & I liked that there were plenty of accurate historical references. I look forward to reading more from the author
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the first book I’ve read in the series & I’m hooked & will have to get the other books in the series. A well written page turning book that kept me on the edge of my seat at times, there were twists & turns that captivated me from the start & I read well into the night to finish it.The characters are well drawn & very likeable. The story flowed really well & I liked that there were plenty of accurate historical references. I look forward to reading more from the author
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 31, 2018
Two Thumbs Up
Absolutely my favorite book yet in the Pirates and Petticoats series. So many twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat. The characters had drawn me in right from the start. I felt all their feelings through the entire book. Definitely worth the read!!
Absolutely my favorite book yet in the Pirates and Petticoats series. So many twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat. The characters had drawn me in right from the start. I felt all their feelings through the entire book. Definitely worth the read!!
March 23, 2018
This is a dramatic, engrossing, suspenseful and exciting story. Drago is tough, stubborn, dedicated and loyal. Eva is caring, determined, brave and insecure. The two start on opposite sides of an issue, and Drago uses Eva for information that helps him. But Drago has a conscious that shows up occasionally, testing his convictions, especially when it comes to Eva and the twins. The storyline progresses from a simple opposites attract to all out war. I love how Drago evolves from a pirate to an entrepreneur and Eva grows from being a scared child to being a brave adult. The book is filled with interesting history and entertaining characters. This is an amazing and captivating series that belongs on your TBR list.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
March 26, 2018
Redeeming The Pirate was a adventurous ,action romance. I found d book ok ...
The start was good but too much descriptive & lengthy . the secondary characters were funny ...as per expectations it didnt work for me ...
The start was good but too much descriptive & lengthy . the secondary characters were funny ...as per expectations it didnt work for me ...
October 1, 2019
French Privateer and former pirate, Captain Drago Gamponetti is given one final mission from his employer, Louis the King of France to reclaim the bones of St Louis, religious relics from a New Orleans cathedral. Church healer, Eva Trudeau hides more than her face behind the veil. The convent has been her safe haven since she crawled, beaten and bloody, to its door nine years ago.
This story begins where the previous book ended with Drago taking an ill Jaqueline to a healer in a convent.
Whilst this story could easily be read on its own it is part of a series where characters do make appearances. I'd really liked Drago in previous books even though he is a rogue, the twins are as delightful as ever & Eva is a strong woman who realises the time for hiding is at an end. The book flows effortlessly there are times when the pace isn’t as fast as other times but this is more to give you a breather before something else is thrown at Drago & Eva & it once again becomes unputdownable. I read long into the night before I fell asleep & I completed it the following morning. I hope there are more books to follow especially with the teaser at the end. I was taken on a roller coaster of emotions, at times laughing out loud, crying when a loved character was lost & holding my breath when there were very tricky situations. If you love pirates a darned good romance then this is right up your street
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This story begins where the previous book ended with Drago taking an ill Jaqueline to a healer in a convent.
Whilst this story could easily be read on its own it is part of a series where characters do make appearances. I'd really liked Drago in previous books even though he is a rogue, the twins are as delightful as ever & Eva is a strong woman who realises the time for hiding is at an end. The book flows effortlessly there are times when the pace isn’t as fast as other times but this is more to give you a breather before something else is thrown at Drago & Eva & it once again becomes unputdownable. I read long into the night before I fell asleep & I completed it the following morning. I hope there are more books to follow especially with the teaser at the end. I was taken on a roller coaster of emotions, at times laughing out loud, crying when a loved character was lost & holding my breath when there were very tricky situations. If you love pirates a darned good romance then this is right up your street
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 9, 2019
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and Flowers & Fullerton LLC in exchange for an honest review.
The Heart of a Spy is a historical romance set at the time of the Battle of New Orleans. Eva, hoping to be a Novitiate, is on a mission for the Catholic Church. Drago is a Privateer and former pirate, who is on a mission for the King of France. When their missions conflict, sparks ensue, as the Battle of New Orleans begins to rage around them.
This is a well written historical romance that will appeal to any history buff. Eva, Drago, and the surrounding characters are well written. The history is woven seamlessly into the novel. The action and adventure keep you fully engaged. If you love well written historical novels, you will enjoy this book. If you love History, especially American History, you will enjoy this book. If you love Christian books that contain history, action, and adventure, you will enjoy this book. I was thoroughly entertained and am hoping for a sequel.
The Heart of a Spy is a historical romance set at the time of the Battle of New Orleans. Eva, hoping to be a Novitiate, is on a mission for the Catholic Church. Drago is a Privateer and former pirate, who is on a mission for the King of France. When their missions conflict, sparks ensue, as the Battle of New Orleans begins to rage around them.
This is a well written historical romance that will appeal to any history buff. Eva, Drago, and the surrounding characters are well written. The history is woven seamlessly into the novel. The action and adventure keep you fully engaged. If you love well written historical novels, you will enjoy this book. If you love History, especially American History, you will enjoy this book. If you love Christian books that contain history, action, and adventure, you will enjoy this book. I was thoroughly entertained and am hoping for a sequel.
April 21, 2018
Several days before someone pounds on the abbey door late at night, a Jamaican white witch warns Sister Eva about a darkly shadowed man carrying a sick child. When the knock comes in November 1814, Eva opens the door to Captain Gamponetti, whose menacing manner and expectations of immediate obedience frighten Eva. But she is a healer and if her assumption is correct, the young girl suffers from contact with the deadly Manchineel tree. Saving her requires Eva to first bring down the fever. This necessitates a journey, with the daunting captain and her patient’s brother, to nearby caves where the cool pools of water will bring down the girl’s temperature.
Once a pirate and now French privateer, Drago Viteri Gamponetti is a condemned man – not by the law, but by his own heinous deeds. Although Jacqueline and Julian are not his children, they are his responsibility until he can return the twins to his friend and their uncle. First, he must rendezvous with the trader who will purchase his cargo of sugarcane and then he must meet with three French agents. He hopes this will be his last mission for King Louis before he will finally be permitted to pursue a more legitimate line of work.
The witch appears on the road to the caves and warns Drago that the time to choose approaches. If he makes the wrong choice, he will die. His only hope is a beacon of light, but salvation will come only after he betrays an ally, breaks a vow, and helps an enemy. She also slips Eva herbs to make tea to help cure Jacqueline and to make Drago do Eva’s bidding. Before she can inquire into the specific herbs, the witch vanishes.
Eva is reticent to give the tea to Drago, but he has a ship and she needs transportation to New Orleans as soon as possible. A dying Frenchman seeking absolution has revealed that the French king has sent agents to steal sacred relics from the cathedral. She is determined to prevent this, even at the risk of her own life. Setting foot in the city could bring her face-to-face with the man who tried to kill her ten years ago for losing a precious map.
After Drago drinks the tea, a compromising comedy of errors ensues and he pledges to take Sister Eva to New Orleans. This doesn’t seem to be a problem until only two of the three French agents meet with him and he must not only transport them to New Orleans but also assist in the theft of the relics. His initial reaction is to refuse, but the king has sent his trusted assassin to either bring him the relics or kill Drago and his agents. Since his soul is already doomed, Drago thinks it may be safer to betray Sister Eva rather than his king.
When he delivers his cargo to the trader, Drago discovers a fleet of British warships in the harbor. He also learns the reason for their gathering and how they intend to use the sugarcane. Since he still has a modicum of conscience, he vows to prevent France’s enemy from utilizing it in their planned invasion of the United States. Nor can he endanger Sister Eva or the twins by taking them with him to New Orleans. In the coming battle 2,000 able-bodied, but untrained, men will defend the city against more than 10,000 battle-hardened, veteran soldiers. What he doesn’t factor into this decision are the twins, who refuse to be left behind. Determined to return to their family and defend their country, Jacqueline and Justin stow away on Drago’s ship; when Sister Eva cannot find them in the abbey, she and an older nun go in search of them. Which puts all four aboard the vessel when Drago sets sail. By the time he discovers their presence, it’s too late to put them ashore. They are in a race against the British invasion force to reach New Orleans first.
Redeeming the Pirate is a captivating retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Part of the Pirates and Petticoats series, this historical romance is a poignant love story, a gut-wrenching depiction of war, and a tale of redemption. From that first knock on the abbey door to the aftermath of the Battle of New Orleans, the characters draw you into the depths and breadths of this story so we experience all their joys and pains. They make us laugh or cry, depending on how they interpret the predicaments in which they find themselves. Most authors focus on the primary battlefield (Chalmette) and final confrontation in this final major conflict of the War of 1812. While Flowers covers all the skirmishes that comprise the Battle of New Orleans, she focuses on two aspects often overlooked in or omitted from other novels. One concerns the fascines (ladders) the British intended to use to scale and overrun American defenses. While Drago’s plan to infiltrate the British encampment and destroy those fascines seems a bit naïve for someone as knowledgeable, astute, and jaded as Drago, Flowers presents an interesting and plausible reason as to why the enemy failed to implement this part of their plan. She also incorporates the British attempt to seize the American position on the West Bank of the Mississippi and turn those guns on Jackson’s forces at Chalmette, which would have led to a far different ending to the war. These portrayals permit her to vividly show us what it might have been like for anyone taken prisoner by the British and how sometimes the intervention of a divine source often makes the difference between success and failure.
Redeeming the Pirate is one of the best romances and historical novels I’ve read this year and I highly recommend it. It is also worth noting that Flowers will donate 15% of her book sales to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
Once a pirate and now French privateer, Drago Viteri Gamponetti is a condemned man – not by the law, but by his own heinous deeds. Although Jacqueline and Julian are not his children, they are his responsibility until he can return the twins to his friend and their uncle. First, he must rendezvous with the trader who will purchase his cargo of sugarcane and then he must meet with three French agents. He hopes this will be his last mission for King Louis before he will finally be permitted to pursue a more legitimate line of work.
The witch appears on the road to the caves and warns Drago that the time to choose approaches. If he makes the wrong choice, he will die. His only hope is a beacon of light, but salvation will come only after he betrays an ally, breaks a vow, and helps an enemy. She also slips Eva herbs to make tea to help cure Jacqueline and to make Drago do Eva’s bidding. Before she can inquire into the specific herbs, the witch vanishes.
Eva is reticent to give the tea to Drago, but he has a ship and she needs transportation to New Orleans as soon as possible. A dying Frenchman seeking absolution has revealed that the French king has sent agents to steal sacred relics from the cathedral. She is determined to prevent this, even at the risk of her own life. Setting foot in the city could bring her face-to-face with the man who tried to kill her ten years ago for losing a precious map.
After Drago drinks the tea, a compromising comedy of errors ensues and he pledges to take Sister Eva to New Orleans. This doesn’t seem to be a problem until only two of the three French agents meet with him and he must not only transport them to New Orleans but also assist in the theft of the relics. His initial reaction is to refuse, but the king has sent his trusted assassin to either bring him the relics or kill Drago and his agents. Since his soul is already doomed, Drago thinks it may be safer to betray Sister Eva rather than his king.
When he delivers his cargo to the trader, Drago discovers a fleet of British warships in the harbor. He also learns the reason for their gathering and how they intend to use the sugarcane. Since he still has a modicum of conscience, he vows to prevent France’s enemy from utilizing it in their planned invasion of the United States. Nor can he endanger Sister Eva or the twins by taking them with him to New Orleans. In the coming battle 2,000 able-bodied, but untrained, men will defend the city against more than 10,000 battle-hardened, veteran soldiers. What he doesn’t factor into this decision are the twins, who refuse to be left behind. Determined to return to their family and defend their country, Jacqueline and Justin stow away on Drago’s ship; when Sister Eva cannot find them in the abbey, she and an older nun go in search of them. Which puts all four aboard the vessel when Drago sets sail. By the time he discovers their presence, it’s too late to put them ashore. They are in a race against the British invasion force to reach New Orleans first.
Redeeming the Pirate is a captivating retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Part of the Pirates and Petticoats series, this historical romance is a poignant love story, a gut-wrenching depiction of war, and a tale of redemption. From that first knock on the abbey door to the aftermath of the Battle of New Orleans, the characters draw you into the depths and breadths of this story so we experience all their joys and pains. They make us laugh or cry, depending on how they interpret the predicaments in which they find themselves. Most authors focus on the primary battlefield (Chalmette) and final confrontation in this final major conflict of the War of 1812. While Flowers covers all the skirmishes that comprise the Battle of New Orleans, she focuses on two aspects often overlooked in or omitted from other novels. One concerns the fascines (ladders) the British intended to use to scale and overrun American defenses. While Drago’s plan to infiltrate the British encampment and destroy those fascines seems a bit naïve for someone as knowledgeable, astute, and jaded as Drago, Flowers presents an interesting and plausible reason as to why the enemy failed to implement this part of their plan. She also incorporates the British attempt to seize the American position on the West Bank of the Mississippi and turn those guns on Jackson’s forces at Chalmette, which would have led to a far different ending to the war. These portrayals permit her to vividly show us what it might have been like for anyone taken prisoner by the British and how sometimes the intervention of a divine source often makes the difference between success and failure.
Redeeming the Pirate is one of the best romances and historical novels I’ve read this year and I highly recommend it. It is also worth noting that Flowers will donate 15% of her book sales to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
December 22, 2019
Drago is a man drowning in his own dark hell filled with acts he wishes to forget. One glimpse of Eva’s eyes draws him ever so closely to the light from within. But his soul is corrupted and tainted and such goodness he sees dims his chances of being in her presence. What Drago was unaware of is that Eva is in her own personal hell and trying her best to redeem the soul she thought she had lost. An adventurous, exciting and romantic tale where cupid intervenes causing turmoil on their heartstrings.
October 9, 2018
Eva has been an abused woman. She has a big scar on her face and feels that no one could ever love her due to this. She is working at a convent as a healer in Jamaica. She is from New Orleans and wants to go back. One night, a man and two young people come into the convent. The girl is very sick with a fever and needs help. The man who brings her in is Drago, Captain Gamponetti, a Privateer for the King of France. He has one more mission before he can retire. Eva, is also called Sister Eva but has not started training to be a nun. This is during the war of 1812 and the Battle of New Orleans. Drago and his ship must get back to New Orleans to retrieve something for the King or face death. Eva and the two children stow away on the ship and are not found until two days into the trip and cannot turn around as an armada of English ships are on their way to the city. The people of New Orleans need to be warned. During the trip, Drago learns that Eva is not yet a nun and they are very attracted to each other. Eva finds out about Drago's mission and feels betrayed. Will they survive this dangerous time of war? Since her abuser is still out there, will Eva ever be safe? This is an exciting book of adventure and war. There's Privateers, assassins and adventure. It is a great story of survival and love during a tumultuous time. I received this book from Net Galley and Flowers & Fullerton LLC for a honest review and no compensation otherwise.The opinions expressed are my own.
November 14, 2018
***ARC was provided to me for a fair and honest review***
Overall rating: 4/5 Much more action than you usually find in these types of books set in the 1800’s
Heroine (Eva): 4/5 She is a sister of the Ursuline Monastery, or at least when she takes her vows she will be. She has a past that is cast more in shadow than was ever in the light.
Hero (Drago): 4/5 He is a pirate captain that is also working for the French crown. He is looking to get out of both of those lives and starting anew as a shipping captain.
Plot: 4/5 Eva heals a child in Drago’s care and he offers her passage back to New Orleans. Once Drago hears about a British plot to take New Orleans, he deems it too dangerous to take Eva and the twins, but he must return to save the rest of the twin’s family. But the three steal onto the boat and it’s too late to turn back. Now the four must decide if this turns into a battle, will they stand and fight or will they run?
Personal Review: It was a new take on the pirate story, and held a lot more action than simple romance novels are willing to put in, especially period piece novels. So for that I really respect this book. But like any of these stories, the main couple fall hard way too fast. It was necessary here for the two to know where they stand before the battling but they were hardly in each other’s company before they fell in love. That said, I still am a sucker for cheesy romance so I still loved it.
Overall rating: 4/5 Much more action than you usually find in these types of books set in the 1800’s
Heroine (Eva): 4/5 She is a sister of the Ursuline Monastery, or at least when she takes her vows she will be. She has a past that is cast more in shadow than was ever in the light.
Hero (Drago): 4/5 He is a pirate captain that is also working for the French crown. He is looking to get out of both of those lives and starting anew as a shipping captain.
Plot: 4/5 Eva heals a child in Drago’s care and he offers her passage back to New Orleans. Once Drago hears about a British plot to take New Orleans, he deems it too dangerous to take Eva and the twins, but he must return to save the rest of the twin’s family. But the three steal onto the boat and it’s too late to turn back. Now the four must decide if this turns into a battle, will they stand and fight or will they run?
Personal Review: It was a new take on the pirate story, and held a lot more action than simple romance novels are willing to put in, especially period piece novels. So for that I really respect this book. But like any of these stories, the main couple fall hard way too fast. It was necessary here for the two to know where they stand before the battling but they were hardly in each other’s company before they fell in love. That said, I still am a sucker for cheesy romance so I still loved it.
November 29, 2018
I have received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review through Netgalley.
This is my first time reading a book from this author and I was blown away by her ability to paint such a rich tapestry of a moment in history.
To summarize, sister Eva is a healer in her village who is called upon by a privateer, Drago, to help save a young girl. This leads to various incidents and adventures (some very comical) that forces Drago to choice between betraying his king or the woman he falls in love with.
I was immediately drawn to the depth and good will of both characters who although have a dark past by the end of the novel find love, acceptance and redemption.
There are difficult scenes like when Eva is almost raped by a crew member and her retelling of a time when her face was brutalized by a benefactor. My heart swelled when Drago kissed her scars and soothed her sorrows. He showed her how truly beautiful she was. Great story. Look forward to reading the rest in this series.
This is my first time reading a book from this author and I was blown away by her ability to paint such a rich tapestry of a moment in history.
To summarize, sister Eva is a healer in her village who is called upon by a privateer, Drago, to help save a young girl. This leads to various incidents and adventures (some very comical) that forces Drago to choice between betraying his king or the woman he falls in love with.
I was immediately drawn to the depth and good will of both characters who although have a dark past by the end of the novel find love, acceptance and redemption.
There are difficult scenes like when Eva is almost raped by a crew member and her retelling of a time when her face was brutalized by a benefactor. My heart swelled when Drago kissed her scars and soothed her sorrows. He showed her how truly beautiful she was. Great story. Look forward to reading the rest in this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2018
Redeeming the Pirate
By Chloe Flowers
4 stars
Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction Book Blog
This book wasn’t quite what I was expecting given the title of the book however I did enjoy it! I think that it was probably a little more factual than I thought it would be but it was still an intriguing read. The book was really well written and had a really good pace to it. This is the first book that I have read in this series and I think I would definitely like to read more. I definitely liked the era that they are set in.
Overall I liked the characters Drago and Eva! I thought that they were well thought out and developed well over the story. There were some really good twists and turns in the book too that I didn’t expect and my interest was kept throughout.
I would definitely recommend this book to historical romance lovers and readers who love a bit of suspense in their stories. I will certainly be looking to read more from this author in the future.
By Chloe Flowers
4 stars
Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction Book Blog
This book wasn’t quite what I was expecting given the title of the book however I did enjoy it! I think that it was probably a little more factual than I thought it would be but it was still an intriguing read. The book was really well written and had a really good pace to it. This is the first book that I have read in this series and I think I would definitely like to read more. I definitely liked the era that they are set in.
Overall I liked the characters Drago and Eva! I thought that they were well thought out and developed well over the story. There were some really good twists and turns in the book too that I didn’t expect and my interest was kept throughout.
I would definitely recommend this book to historical romance lovers and readers who love a bit of suspense in their stories. I will certainly be looking to read more from this author in the future.
October 17, 2018
I was given this book for my honest opinion by netgalley.
I could not get into this book, I didn't feel anything for the characters. I tried to read this book for 4 days and only got to 24%, it is hard for me to give the book stars because I couldn't finish it.
I felt like the book dragged on, it was extremely slow and never really made a point. There were numerous grammar/spelling errors just in the first part of the book. The errors were enough to distract my reading flow, I would think the editor would have noticed these issues.
This book wouldn't put me off from trying other novels by the author. Sometimes authors just have a book that isn't that great. Maybe the next one will be better!!
I could not get into this book, I didn't feel anything for the characters. I tried to read this book for 4 days and only got to 24%, it is hard for me to give the book stars because I couldn't finish it.
I felt like the book dragged on, it was extremely slow and never really made a point. There were numerous grammar/spelling errors just in the first part of the book. The errors were enough to distract my reading flow, I would think the editor would have noticed these issues.
This book wouldn't put me off from trying other novels by the author. Sometimes authors just have a book that isn't that great. Maybe the next one will be better!!
April 10, 2018
Eva Trudeau was an orphan, became a pickpocket and had been staying the last seven years with the Nuns. She was waiting to hopefully take her vows. She met Captain Drago Viteri Gamponetti while in Jamaica. He bought her and the twins back to New Orleans just ahead of the British fleet. This is a great story and has everything, action, intrigue, danger, battles, and more. The characters appear courageous and willing to fight to keep what is theirs. The plot while complicated was very well put together. It was easy to read and you could not take your eyes off the book. I loved it all.
August 31, 2018
Purely entertaining
This continued story in the petticoat and pirate series is purely entertaining and redeems Captain Gampo of his illicit past while bringing him full circle to finding redemption and love behind the last door you would ever expect him too! It also sets up the beginning of the next story in the series quite nicely and I hope it brings us to Adrian's story!
This continued story in the petticoat and pirate series is purely entertaining and redeems Captain Gampo of his illicit past while bringing him full circle to finding redemption and love behind the last door you would ever expect him too! It also sets up the beginning of the next story in the series quite nicely and I hope it brings us to Adrian's story!
June 28, 2018
Redeeming the Pirate
I have read all the books in this series and they have all been so , full of mystery, drama,excitement and funny. They are very well written the characters were wonderful.You are a great writer. Thank you so much
I have read all the books in this series and they have all been so , full of mystery, drama,excitement and funny. They are very well written the characters were wonderful.You are a great writer. Thank you so much
December 13, 2018
Great book
Another wonderful book by Chloe Flowers. Awesome writer,her books are always so exciting,romantic and intriguing. This book has some great characters who were perfect together. Lots of adventure in the high seas and land.
Another wonderful book by Chloe Flowers. Awesome writer,her books are always so exciting,romantic and intriguing. This book has some great characters who were perfect together. Lots of adventure in the high seas and land.
December 2, 2019
This story takes place over four months, from November 1814 to March 1815. It begins in Jamaica and ends in New Orleans. It takes us through the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812 and its aftermath.
The British are gathering a large fleet of ships at Negril Bay in Jamaica; they are waiting for a fleet coming from the Azores before preparing to sail to New Orleans. Once there they intend to decimate the American forces, and either capture or burn New Orleans. This will enable them to control the Mississippi River, separating the colonists and placing the western part of the continent under British rule.
The French king is after a Saint’s relics held in an Abbey in New Orleans under the care of the Ursuline Nuns. His agents are preparing to steal these relics and ferret them back to France and the French King.
Then there is a privateer, his ship and crew, a brother and sister whose family resides in New Orleans, a young Nun of the Ursuline Order and various and sundry characters hindering and helping both plans.
There is a man who has agreed to steal the relics, and a Sister whose aim is to protect them. The man’s life is forfeit if he doesn’t yet his soul is lost, if he does.
What is the outcome, who will win? Will the dark subdue the Light or will the Light embrace the dark?
Very enjoyable book with much history and some well known historical figures. I feel the addition of the Jamaican “white witch” lent credence and flavor to this story as well as the sugar cane, rum, and the mention of slave trade.
I thank the author, NetGalley and Flowers & Fullerton LLC for allowing me to read this book.
The British are gathering a large fleet of ships at Negril Bay in Jamaica; they are waiting for a fleet coming from the Azores before preparing to sail to New Orleans. Once there they intend to decimate the American forces, and either capture or burn New Orleans. This will enable them to control the Mississippi River, separating the colonists and placing the western part of the continent under British rule.
The French king is after a Saint’s relics held in an Abbey in New Orleans under the care of the Ursuline Nuns. His agents are preparing to steal these relics and ferret them back to France and the French King.
Then there is a privateer, his ship and crew, a brother and sister whose family resides in New Orleans, a young Nun of the Ursuline Order and various and sundry characters hindering and helping both plans.
There is a man who has agreed to steal the relics, and a Sister whose aim is to protect them. The man’s life is forfeit if he doesn’t yet his soul is lost, if he does.
What is the outcome, who will win? Will the dark subdue the Light or will the Light embrace the dark?
Very enjoyable book with much history and some well known historical figures. I feel the addition of the Jamaican “white witch” lent credence and flavor to this story as well as the sugar cane, rum, and the mention of slave trade.
I thank the author, NetGalley and Flowers & Fullerton LLC for allowing me to read this book.
December 13, 2019
I received this as an advanced reading copy.
This book was a very good book in a setting I normally don't read. Because readers of historical romances tend to know their time period, we tend to want good historical accuracy. As a result, since I am not as knowledgeable about this particular place and time, I found myself looking up point of history. Random little things like was the guillotine in use prior to Napoleon's take over of France. Yes. And various other bits and pieces. I also looked up the Battle of New Orleans. I am delighted at the historical accuracy of this book and the romance set in the book. The amount of story in this book not directly related to the romance makes me want to label this novel as Historical Fiction with a strong romance rather than strictly a Historical Romance. The quality of the history, despite the main characters being fictional participants, is good enough to give a person a good understanding of what actually happened. If I have any complaint it is that the cover art is not at all reflective of story. It makes it look like a totally different story.
This book was a very good book in a setting I normally don't read. Because readers of historical romances tend to know their time period, we tend to want good historical accuracy. As a result, since I am not as knowledgeable about this particular place and time, I found myself looking up point of history. Random little things like was the guillotine in use prior to Napoleon's take over of France. Yes. And various other bits and pieces. I also looked up the Battle of New Orleans. I am delighted at the historical accuracy of this book and the romance set in the book. The amount of story in this book not directly related to the romance makes me want to label this novel as Historical Fiction with a strong romance rather than strictly a Historical Romance. The quality of the history, despite the main characters being fictional participants, is good enough to give a person a good understanding of what actually happened. If I have any complaint it is that the cover art is not at all reflective of story. It makes it look like a totally different story.
October 4, 2019
I’ve been waiting eagerly for this next book in the series, and it definitely did not disappoint. It’s a roller-coaster of action and emotions I love all the characters including the mischievous twins. A pirate-turned-privateer-planning-to-be-a-merchant seeks help from a scarred-young-woman-healer-living-as-a-nun-although-not-one. (Whew!) Their relationship is complicated by the many dangers they face. Insecurity, fear, and passion all surface as they fight to survive.
The Battle of New Orleans is the background for the main part of the story and I’ll never look at it the same way. The book is rich in detail with wonderful characters, plot twists, and mystery. Chloe Flowers’ writing style is a delightful gift to the senses and I devoured the story. I highly recommend this and I believe you will enjoy it as much as I did. Put the coffee on.
The Battle of New Orleans is the background for the main part of the story and I’ll never look at it the same way. The book is rich in detail with wonderful characters, plot twists, and mystery. Chloe Flowers’ writing style is a delightful gift to the senses and I devoured the story. I highly recommend this and I believe you will enjoy it as much as I did. Put the coffee on.
September 13, 2020
This is a dramatic, engrossing, suspenseful and exciting story. Drago is tough, stubborn, dedicated and loyal. Eva is caring, determined, brave and insecure. The two start on opposite sides of an issue, and Drago uses Eva for information that helps him. But Drago has a conscious that shows up occasionally, testing his convictions, especially when it comes to Eva and the twins. The storyline progresses from a simple opposites attract to all out war. I love how Drago evolves from a pirate to an entrepreneur and Eva grows from being a scared child to being a brave adult. The book is filled with interesting history and entertaining characters. This is an amazing and captivating series that belongs on your TBR list.
November 22, 2019
The twins were a delight.
In this one, we have a French Privateer who is given a mission to locate religious relics. So off he goes to New Orleans and runs into a challenge Drago meets Eva and the story is off and running. It is one of those books that is so well-written you will become totally engaged with the characters. You will feel their disappointment, success, and understand when they find humor. Twists, Turns and a recipe for New Orleans Creole Jambalaya what more can you as from a book? Loved the story grab yourself a cup of tea and enjoy your time with this gem. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
In this one, we have a French Privateer who is given a mission to locate religious relics. So off he goes to New Orleans and runs into a challenge Drago meets Eva and the story is off and running. It is one of those books that is so well-written you will become totally engaged with the characters. You will feel their disappointment, success, and understand when they find humor. Twists, Turns and a recipe for New Orleans Creole Jambalaya what more can you as from a book? Loved the story grab yourself a cup of tea and enjoy your time with this gem. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
November 24, 2019
I received an advanced reader's copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was the first book I've read by Chloe Flowers, but not the first book in the series.
The author has done a lot of research about the history of New Orleans and skillfully brings her story extra depth by including the history and historical figures in the narrative.
While this isn't really the type of book I'd normally read, I enjoyed it nonetheless.
If I get a chance, I'd be interested to see how earlier books in the series compare.
This was the first book I've read by Chloe Flowers, but not the first book in the series.
The author has done a lot of research about the history of New Orleans and skillfully brings her story extra depth by including the history and historical figures in the narrative.
While this isn't really the type of book I'd normally read, I enjoyed it nonetheless.
If I get a chance, I'd be interested to see how earlier books in the series compare.
October 13, 2019
A soon to be nun, who is a healer, helps a pirate with his young charge. Soon they are involved in the Battle of New Orleans testing their trust for each other and a new country called America. Against the odds of reason, they fall in love. Eva will save him from turning to the dark side and bring him into the light. A nice pace to the story with lots of action.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
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