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Ponderosa Resort Romantic Comedies #7
Captain Dreamboat
Jonathan Bracelyn pours his soul into saving the world, and he’s still nowhere near cancelling out the sins of dear ol’ dad. But when a medical crisis prompts Jon to toss his sister the ultimate lifeline, he’s forced to hang up his captain’s hat and hit pause on the one thing that makes him…well, him.
At least he has Blanka Pavlo’s heart-flooding smile to buoy his spirits. A brilliant scientist, she knows things can’t last with the do-gooder Bracelyn brother. Not even if he kisses like a dream and boasts biceps as hefty as his heart. Blanka’s learned the hard way how lonely life is in the shadow of a saint, so she’s giving the hottie hero a wide berth.
Except Jonathan sucks at self-care, so maybe she’ll lend a hand (and other tingly parts) to help him out. Soon, they’re bonding over awkward bubble baths and a disturbingly homely cat, while struggling to remember it’s all temporary. But the harder they brace for goodbye, the louder their hearts declare they’re already in too deep.
At least he has Blanka Pavlo’s heart-flooding smile to buoy his spirits. A brilliant scientist, she knows things can’t last with the do-gooder Bracelyn brother. Not even if he kisses like a dream and boasts biceps as hefty as his heart. Blanka’s learned the hard way how lonely life is in the shadow of a saint, so she’s giving the hottie hero a wide berth.
Except Jonathan sucks at self-care, so maybe she’ll lend a hand (and other tingly parts) to help him out. Soon, they’re bonding over awkward bubble baths and a disturbingly homely cat, while struggling to remember it’s all temporary. But the harder they brace for goodbye, the louder their hearts declare they’re already in too deep.
262 pages, Paperback
First published November 8, 2019
700 people are currently reading
455 people want to read
About the author
Tawna Fenske
73 books1,616 followersWhen Tawna Fenske finished her English lit degree at 22, she celebrated by filling a giant trash bag full of romance novels and dragging it everywhere until she’d read them all. Now she’s a RITA Award finalist, USA Today bestselling author who writes humorous fiction, risqué romance, and heartwarming love stories with a quirky twist. Publishers Weekly has praised Tawna’s offbeat romances with multiple starred reviews and noted, “There’s something wonderfully relaxing about being immersed in a story filled with over-the-top characters in undeniably relatable situations. Heartache and humor go hand in hand.”
Tawna lives in Bend, Oregon, with her husband, step-kids, and a menagerie of ill-behaved pets. She loves hiking, snowshoeing, standup paddleboarding, and inventing excuses to sip wine on her back porch. She can peel a banana with her toes and loses an average of twenty pairs of eyeglasses per year. To find out more about Tawna and her books, visit www.tawnafenske.com.
Tawna lives in Bend, Oregon, with her husband, step-kids, and a menagerie of ill-behaved pets. She loves hiking, snowshoeing, standup paddleboarding, and inventing excuses to sip wine on her back porch. She can peel a banana with her toes and loses an average of twenty pairs of eyeglasses per year. To find out more about Tawna and her books, visit www.tawnafenske.com.
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March 21, 2024
RATING 4.5 STARS
Captain Dreamboat is book seven in the Ponderosa Resort Romantic Comedies series by Tawna Fenske. I’ve been slowly working my way through this series and with every book, I love this family more. This is Jonathan’s book and I can’t wait for you to meet him.
Jonathan Bracelyn, biological son of Cort Bracelyn but raised by his mom and step dad. Jon has spent his life trying to prove that he’s not his father. That he’s a good man that has earned respect. He is part owner of Ponderosa Resort but spends most of his time on the seas doing humanitarian work. He’s home for his sister Bree’s wedding when his other, newly discovered sister, Izzy becomes seriously ill. It’s Jonathan that wants to save the day but it will keep Jonathan home for a few moths. Good thing he has Blanka to keep him company.
Blanka Pavlo grew up all over the world as her father did one humanitarian mission after another. Now, Blanka is happy here at her job as a hydrology researcher and with her friends. She has no interest what-so-ever in a relationship or marriage. That is, until she met Jonathan and then started having all sorts of fantasies that included picket fences.
These two were so cute together. Both of them had experiences with their own fathers to make them wary of any kind of commitment. But could it be that in reality, they were just waiting for the right one to come along? Were they waiting for each other?
As always, I loved spending time with the rest of the Bracelyn siblings and I loved getting to know Izzy a little better. Of course, our author has sprinkled plenty of humor throughout this book as well as some sweet, swoony moments and a little steam as well. I loved finally getting to know Jonathan better and he was worth the wait. The next book in the series is book eight, Snowbound Squeeze, and is a novella that will feature Jon’s sister, Gretchen. I can’t wait to read it.
“Everything I’ve done in life has been leading me to this moment, right here, right now, with Blanka. I just never knew it.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Captain Dreamboat is book seven in the Ponderosa Resort Romantic Comedies series by Tawna Fenske. I’ve been slowly working my way through this series and with every book, I love this family more. This is Jonathan’s book and I can’t wait for you to meet him.
Jonathan Bracelyn, biological son of Cort Bracelyn but raised by his mom and step dad. Jon has spent his life trying to prove that he’s not his father. That he’s a good man that has earned respect. He is part owner of Ponderosa Resort but spends most of his time on the seas doing humanitarian work. He’s home for his sister Bree’s wedding when his other, newly discovered sister, Izzy becomes seriously ill. It’s Jonathan that wants to save the day but it will keep Jonathan home for a few moths. Good thing he has Blanka to keep him company.
Blanka Pavlo grew up all over the world as her father did one humanitarian mission after another. Now, Blanka is happy here at her job as a hydrology researcher and with her friends. She has no interest what-so-ever in a relationship or marriage. That is, until she met Jonathan and then started having all sorts of fantasies that included picket fences.
These two were so cute together. Both of them had experiences with their own fathers to make them wary of any kind of commitment. But could it be that in reality, they were just waiting for the right one to come along? Were they waiting for each other?
As always, I loved spending time with the rest of the Bracelyn siblings and I loved getting to know Izzy a little better. Of course, our author has sprinkled plenty of humor throughout this book as well as some sweet, swoony moments and a little steam as well. I loved finally getting to know Jonathan better and he was worth the wait. The next book in the series is book eight, Snowbound Squeeze, and is a novella that will feature Jon’s sister, Gretchen. I can’t wait to read it.
“Everything I’ve done in life has been leading me to this moment, right here, right now, with Blanka. I just never knew it.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
November 16, 2019
Favorite Quotes:
When he got his tonsils out at ten, he came to and immediately looked between his legs… The neighbor’s dog got neutered the week before… Jon was confused about what sort of surgery he’d had. The more we tried to explain it, the more agitated he got, until we finally let him go ahead and inspect things.
She points to the screen. “That’s the next one. The next time you’re nude, take a moment to stand naked before the mirror and repeat the following—‘ I’m a beautiful sunflower, fragile and proud, mighty and soft.’” She looks at me and snorts. “I would pay one million dollars to see you do that.”
When Chuck takes Wendy’s hand as we pass from the south hall to the north lab, she smiles at him like he invented dark chocolate.
“It’s my birthday,” Archie announces proudly. “Eighty-five.”… Archie just beams and takes a bite out of his drumstick. “No one’s spanked me yet.”
We wait in silence for more kittens to appear, or for Jessica’s head to spin around. It’s the first time I’ve witnessed feline birth, and it’s not unlike an exorcism. But also magical.
I’d never say that to the girls, but Jon was beautiful the instant he came out. The others took a few days to stop looking like rashy coneheads…
“How do mothers know the exact right thing to say?” “It’s in the manual,” she says. “They hand it to you in the delivery room, along with a fifth of vodka and a pair of earplugs.”
My Review:
Tawna Fenske’s clever rom/coms are a guaranteed giggle-snort. I relish her keen wit and amusingly observant insights and inner musings as much as her well-drawn and charismatic characters. Her engaging stories are always smirk-worthy with irreverent humor and comical antics deftly penned along with the thoughtful insertions of real-world issues and cunning incorporations of unique family drama, personal insecurities, and emotional vulnerabilities.
Her characters tend to highly appealing, multifaceted, and exceptionally bright as was the case with the main characters featured in this installment. Blanka was beautiful as well as brilliant with a head full of random facts, which she spouted uncontrollably when anxious. I adored her. Jon was not just a good guy – he was the superhero model of good guys. He was gentle and kind, gave generously from his wallet, and his entire career and much of his free time was spent in exceedingly admirable, selfless, and meaningful service and duty to the less fortunate and a mind toward the greater good. Blanka was all too familiar with these tendencies as her father was of the same mentality, although to the far extreme and to the detriment of his family life, something Blanka had no interest in repeating. I enjoyed their blossoming romance and laughed aloud through their impromptu picnic with the ribald and saucy octogenarian Archie and his mortified relatives.
When he got his tonsils out at ten, he came to and immediately looked between his legs… The neighbor’s dog got neutered the week before… Jon was confused about what sort of surgery he’d had. The more we tried to explain it, the more agitated he got, until we finally let him go ahead and inspect things.
She points to the screen. “That’s the next one. The next time you’re nude, take a moment to stand naked before the mirror and repeat the following—‘ I’m a beautiful sunflower, fragile and proud, mighty and soft.’” She looks at me and snorts. “I would pay one million dollars to see you do that.”
When Chuck takes Wendy’s hand as we pass from the south hall to the north lab, she smiles at him like he invented dark chocolate.
“It’s my birthday,” Archie announces proudly. “Eighty-five.”… Archie just beams and takes a bite out of his drumstick. “No one’s spanked me yet.”
We wait in silence for more kittens to appear, or for Jessica’s head to spin around. It’s the first time I’ve witnessed feline birth, and it’s not unlike an exorcism. But also magical.
I’d never say that to the girls, but Jon was beautiful the instant he came out. The others took a few days to stop looking like rashy coneheads…
“How do mothers know the exact right thing to say?” “It’s in the manual,” she says. “They hand it to you in the delivery room, along with a fifth of vodka and a pair of earplugs.”
My Review:
Tawna Fenske’s clever rom/coms are a guaranteed giggle-snort. I relish her keen wit and amusingly observant insights and inner musings as much as her well-drawn and charismatic characters. Her engaging stories are always smirk-worthy with irreverent humor and comical antics deftly penned along with the thoughtful insertions of real-world issues and cunning incorporations of unique family drama, personal insecurities, and emotional vulnerabilities.
Her characters tend to highly appealing, multifaceted, and exceptionally bright as was the case with the main characters featured in this installment. Blanka was beautiful as well as brilliant with a head full of random facts, which she spouted uncontrollably when anxious. I adored her. Jon was not just a good guy – he was the superhero model of good guys. He was gentle and kind, gave generously from his wallet, and his entire career and much of his free time was spent in exceedingly admirable, selfless, and meaningful service and duty to the less fortunate and a mind toward the greater good. Blanka was all too familiar with these tendencies as her father was of the same mentality, although to the far extreme and to the detriment of his family life, something Blanka had no interest in repeating. I enjoyed their blossoming romance and laughed aloud through their impromptu picnic with the ribald and saucy octogenarian Archie and his mortified relatives.
April 7, 2025
Captain Dreamboat is the seventh wonderful book in the Ponderosa Resort Romantic Comedies series.
I fell in love with Tawna's Rom Com's after reading her wonderful Assassin in Love series, Killer Instincts. It has the right mix of humour, angst, trouble, heartache, insecurities, haunted pasts, and longing. I laughed and sighed my way through the book as our couples come together with hope in their hearts.
This delightful book has big tough men brought to their knees by sassy women. But there are moments of tension and suspense to give the story another layer.
I can't wait to read more.
I fell in love with Tawna's Rom Com's after reading her wonderful Assassin in Love series, Killer Instincts. It has the right mix of humour, angst, trouble, heartache, insecurities, haunted pasts, and longing. I laughed and sighed my way through the book as our couples come together with hope in their hearts.
This delightful book has big tough men brought to their knees by sassy women. But there are moments of tension and suspense to give the story another layer.
I can't wait to read more.
Want to read
September 6, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (9/6/2020)! 🎁
November 8, 2019
The Ponderosa Ranch series by Tawna Fenske has been filled with cute and funny love stories, and while Captain Dreamboat is a bit more on the serious side it is tempered with classic Fenske comedic moments making it a truly enjoyable romance.
Jonathan Bracelyn has spent his life doing good for others, something he learned from his mother and step-father at an early age and because he is determined not to be an overpriviledged a$$hole like his late father. At home to attend a family wedding he soon finds himself donating a kidney to the sister he just met and spending time at home to recover.
Blanka Pavlo isn’t sure what it is about Jon that attracts her, but finding out he volunteers to help others almost full time and lives the same life her father and by proxy her mother does she knows he is not for him. As she has no plans to ever marry and give up her dreams like her mother did, she still can’t stay away from Jon as he is recuperating.
I adored these two together neither one wanting to admit they were falling for the other all while spending time working on self care projects (some of which were hilarious) and tending to the cat that Jon insisted was not his because he wasn’t staying around.
At times there seemed like there was too much going on in this book, Jon was worried about his mother and step-dad’s relationship, Blanka was dealing with her parents coming to visit and the fact that as much as she liked Jon he was too much like her dad, and they both were determined to have the careers they wanted without compromise.
What I did like was that Blanka figured out pretty quickly that Jon made it his life’s mission to care for other people, but he wasn’t good at caring for himself something she tried her best to do for him even when he fought her on it and Jon began to see that Blanka wanted someone to put her first something no one in her life had ever done.
A slow burn romance filled with laughter and fun, but also tackling some serious subjects, Captain Dreamboat was a joy to read.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Jonathan Bracelyn has spent his life doing good for others, something he learned from his mother and step-father at an early age and because he is determined not to be an overpriviledged a$$hole like his late father. At home to attend a family wedding he soon finds himself donating a kidney to the sister he just met and spending time at home to recover.
Blanka Pavlo isn’t sure what it is about Jon that attracts her, but finding out he volunteers to help others almost full time and lives the same life her father and by proxy her mother does she knows he is not for him. As she has no plans to ever marry and give up her dreams like her mother did, she still can’t stay away from Jon as he is recuperating.
I adored these two together neither one wanting to admit they were falling for the other all while spending time working on self care projects (some of which were hilarious) and tending to the cat that Jon insisted was not his because he wasn’t staying around.
At times there seemed like there was too much going on in this book, Jon was worried about his mother and step-dad’s relationship, Blanka was dealing with her parents coming to visit and the fact that as much as she liked Jon he was too much like her dad, and they both were determined to have the careers they wanted without compromise.
What I did like was that Blanka figured out pretty quickly that Jon made it his life’s mission to care for other people, but he wasn’t good at caring for himself something she tried her best to do for him even when he fought her on it and Jon began to see that Blanka wanted someone to put her first something no one in her life had ever done.
A slow burn romance filled with laughter and fun, but also tackling some serious subjects, Captain Dreamboat was a joy to read.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
January 15, 2020
Hilarious as always and delivering a much needed laugh on a lousy day. Fenske always delivers on humor with heart and plenty of heat. Two thumbs up!
November 7, 2019
NSFPT - Not Safe For Public Transportation :D
Caution, this book might cause tears (of joy, of laughter, or of heartbreak - it's all there), snort-laughing (you'll know what I mean when you read it, trust me!) and some serious swooning.
Though, let's be honest: Stiff Suit is a darn tough act to follow, but somehow Captain Dreamboat pulls it off. Jonathan and Blanka are their own brand of funny, sexy, swoony, heartbreaking and -melting, and I would give Chapter 4 alone a gazillion stars if I could! Add to that the usual craziness that is the Bracelyn clan, and you've got yourself another winner. :)
Caution, this book might cause tears (of joy, of laughter, or of heartbreak - it's all there), snort-laughing (you'll know what I mean when you read it, trust me!) and some serious swooning.
Though, let's be honest: Stiff Suit is a darn tough act to follow, but somehow Captain Dreamboat pulls it off. Jonathan and Blanka are their own brand of funny, sexy, swoony, heartbreaking and -melting, and I would give Chapter 4 alone a gazillion stars if I could! Add to that the usual craziness that is the Bracelyn clan, and you've got yourself another winner. :)
October 19, 2019
The latest in the Ponderosa Resort series is great, funny, heartwarming and heartwrenching all within a few pages. This is just a feel good read!!!! I enjoyed reading a main character with a passion for charity work. The compassion both Jonathan and Blanka have for their family and complete strangers is awesome. It's not often a romance novel touches on kidney transplants, dementia and volunteering all in one sitting. Tawna Fenske was able to do so here amazingly well! This author is becoming an automatic buy for me!
October 9, 2020
I got this one while it was free, but it's worth its usual price. This is a solid story, if a bit over-written (it could have been shorter without any loss of content), and if you don't mind waiting for the dumbasses to come to their senses. I appreciated the underlying themes the most, although I also liked Blanka's consistency. As usual, the book could've ended before the epilogue, but it's not bad; it's cute, not overly sweet. Rather like this pair.
dnf
November 15, 2021I think I'm going to DNF this and put this series on hold for a while. It's gotten a little stale so I'm moving on for a bit.
Read
October 8, 2020Super cute! I love this series.
November 13, 2019
3.5 Stars
I think I might be in the minority here when it comes to ardent fans of Tawna Fenske, myself being one of them. I fell in love with this author's writing after reading one of her women's fiction/romance novels and then worked my way through those along with many of her straight-forward romantic comedies. I'll admit that I have a stronger affinity for this author's WF/R (Now That It's You & At the Heart of It being being two of my favorites,) but I’ve also enjoyed many of her rom-coms. That all said, I feel that I'm growing weary of the Ponderosa Resort series. The humor within the stories rely heavily on sexual innuendos and interplay, which isn't my style of humor. This is subjective, of course, because I have an 18 y.o. son who likes to barrage me with his "brand" of humor, as well as reader friends who really enjoy it. Or, maybe for me, it’s become too one-note as the series progresses. Regardless, I will say that I've always enjoyed the author's balance between wit, conflict, and poignancy in all of her books. The conflict and poignancy in her stories always stand out as authentic rather than manufactured. Those elements were also present in this book along with the author's high quality of writing. I thought Jon and Blanka were wonderful characters and while the humor wore thin, I did enjoy finally getting Jon's story within the Bracelyn clan. I do think I'll be taking a vacation away from Ponderosa Resort for the time being, but I won't ever stray far from this author's work in general. Without a doubt, I'll still be looking forward to a fresh standalone or series in the future.
October 19, 2019
I absolutely adore this series and I have been looking forward to Jonathan's story for a while. It was well worth the wait!!
Jonathan is the brother that is always on the move. He gives 100 percent to all his causes but doesn't know how to really take care of himself. When he is forced to take time for himself, it is his sister's friend (whom he is insanely attracted to) that steps in to help. Blanka isn't looking for a relationship, especially with a guy like Jonathan but the more time they spend together, the harder it is to deny their attraction.
I loved Jonathan and Blanka!! They have so much chemistry, it's insane. They are hilarious together
too. And the cat! Another fantastic addition to this amazing series.
Jonathan is the brother that is always on the move. He gives 100 percent to all his causes but doesn't know how to really take care of himself. When he is forced to take time for himself, it is his sister's friend (whom he is insanely attracted to) that steps in to help. Blanka isn't looking for a relationship, especially with a guy like Jonathan but the more time they spend together, the harder it is to deny their attraction.
I loved Jonathan and Blanka!! They have so much chemistry, it's insane. They are hilarious together
too. And the cat! Another fantastic addition to this amazing series.
November 6, 2019
Captain Dreamboat is another laugh-out-loud romance in the Ponderosa Ranch series from the fantastic author Tawna Fenske!
Jonathan is the very giving brother of the Bracelyn children…so giving that he donated his kidney to his sister that he barely knew. He doesn’t want to turn out like his father. When he met Blanka, he was instantly attracted to her.
This is a fun, very enjoyable read with humor, heat, a little drama and serious issues. I loved this storyline and all of the characters!
Jonathan is the very giving brother of the Bracelyn children…so giving that he donated his kidney to his sister that he barely knew. He doesn’t want to turn out like his father. When he met Blanka, he was instantly attracted to her.
This is a fun, very enjoyable read with humor, heat, a little drama and serious issues. I loved this storyline and all of the characters!
November 19, 2019
A major theme of CAPTAIN DREAMBOAT is the necessity of self care, especially if you're a naturally giving person. Fenske gets the message across with her signature heat and hilarity. Do yourself a favor-- pour yourself a mug of your favorite hot beverage (or a glass of something slightly more intoxicating), plop into a comfy chair, and get lost in the latest Ponderosa Resort Romantic Comedy. Just what the doctor ordered!
November 18, 2019
Jonathan is a good guy, unlike his biological father...Blanka is an amazing woman who refuses to be like her Mom, after all, no woman should give up their dreams and passion for their man. Together they are a beautiful loving couple.
Tawna Fenske brings another fabulous story of the Bracelyn family to life.
Tawna Fenske brings another fabulous story of the Bracelyn family to life.
December 1, 2020
Jonathan was raised to always put people that need help before his own needs. He has been the captain of a rescue ship for years, saving refugees heading to Europe from Africa. Like his step-father he doesn't see his family much because of his desire to help people. When he goes to one of his siblings wedding he meets Blanka.
Blanka grew up in a house that was much like Jonathon's but, her father was traveling all over the world helping people and not realizing that his family at home needed him. Blanka is always having her father on her case about how she might take her home for granted, but in other countries her 1200 sq ft home will fit 3 families. Blanka has no desire to live the rest of her life with someone who cares more about other people, and doesn't put her first.
Everything changes for the both of them when Isabella, Jonathon's half sister, needs a kidney transplant and Jonathan is a perfect match. When he spends time at home he realizes how much he loves being at the resort surrounded by his siblings. He also loves the ability to see Blanka everyday and his pregnant cat that adopted him. He realizes that having the desire to help people, while humanitarian, is also selfish because it makes him feel good. He wants more out of his life, and the ability to settle down and have his own family. Over the course of this book, you can see both of these characters grow both separately and together. All the books are well written and the characters are awesome, but its Jonathon, I feel, that really brings everyone together and shows both of their parents that love is worth fighting for and can be more important than crises all over the world.
Blanka grew up in a house that was much like Jonathon's but, her father was traveling all over the world helping people and not realizing that his family at home needed him. Blanka is always having her father on her case about how she might take her home for granted, but in other countries her 1200 sq ft home will fit 3 families. Blanka has no desire to live the rest of her life with someone who cares more about other people, and doesn't put her first.
Everything changes for the both of them when Isabella, Jonathon's half sister, needs a kidney transplant and Jonathan is a perfect match. When he spends time at home he realizes how much he loves being at the resort surrounded by his siblings. He also loves the ability to see Blanka everyday and his pregnant cat that adopted him. He realizes that having the desire to help people, while humanitarian, is also selfish because it makes him feel good. He wants more out of his life, and the ability to settle down and have his own family. Over the course of this book, you can see both of these characters grow both separately and together. All the books are well written and the characters are awesome, but its Jonathon, I feel, that really brings everyone together and shows both of their parents that love is worth fighting for and can be more important than crises all over the world.
Read
September 28, 2020Johnathan and Blanka have a super funny story that leads you through Johnathan’s recovery after he donates an organ while Blanka shows him how to do a little self-care. It’s a sweet mix of funny and sexy that’s an excellent read if you’re looking for a little laughter in your day.
I gave this book four stars because of the conflict of why our two characters aren’t together sort of lets you down. It’s there as a prominent thing throughout the book but every time it was brought up in the writing, I felt the characters, especially Johnathan, were very blaze’ about it. It was very much “oh we can’t be together because of this but it’s whatever”.
I feel like such an important part of the plot needs to be more dramatic and felt strongly about by our characters. And you just don’t get that with this book.
Other than that I loved the story. It’s funny, you can’t help but love Johnathan and Blanka. Johnathan because he’s such a great person in the grand scheme of things and Blanka because she’d so quirky and has the cutest habits.
I gave this book four stars because of the conflict of why our two characters aren’t together sort of lets you down. It’s there as a prominent thing throughout the book but every time it was brought up in the writing, I felt the characters, especially Johnathan, were very blaze’ about it. It was very much “oh we can’t be together because of this but it’s whatever”.
I feel like such an important part of the plot needs to be more dramatic and felt strongly about by our characters. And you just don’t get that with this book.
Other than that I loved the story. It’s funny, you can’t help but love Johnathan and Blanka. Johnathan because he’s such a great person in the grand scheme of things and Blanka because she’d so quirky and has the cutest habits.
March 18, 2022
Adorably addictive
I love Jonathan. He is a jokester but I’m a way that isn’t obnoxious. He likes to make his family happy and get his uptight brother to smile. He is also a self sacrificing humanitarian. But it stems from wanting to be so polar opposite to his philandering father and emulate his step father more. Blanka is awesome but also has daddy issues with her world saving father. She has seen first hand what it’s like to be second choice as her and her mother took back seat to his world saving efforts. So despite saying she doesn’t want relationships and to remain independent(mostly to avoid being trapped in a relationship like her mother) she wants the happily ever after and all the trimmings with someone who will pick her for once. They have amazing chemistry. And I love their banter and idiom talk. Mild angst during the dinner party but Izzy saves the day and Jon realizes he wants a life with blanka and to be selfish for once and have the happily ever after with blanka. Cute story.
I love Jonathan. He is a jokester but I’m a way that isn’t obnoxious. He likes to make his family happy and get his uptight brother to smile. He is also a self sacrificing humanitarian. But it stems from wanting to be so polar opposite to his philandering father and emulate his step father more. Blanka is awesome but also has daddy issues with her world saving father. She has seen first hand what it’s like to be second choice as her and her mother took back seat to his world saving efforts. So despite saying she doesn’t want relationships and to remain independent(mostly to avoid being trapped in a relationship like her mother) she wants the happily ever after and all the trimmings with someone who will pick her for once. They have amazing chemistry. And I love their banter and idiom talk. Mild angst during the dinner party but Izzy saves the day and Jon realizes he wants a life with blanka and to be selfish for once and have the happily ever after with blanka. Cute story.
January 11, 2020
Considering ManCandy Crush got 3 stars I guess I should give this one 4 because I DID really like it and liked it much more.
Oof to Jonathan and Blanka. THEY'RE SO FREAKING CUTE TOGETHER.
there was this tweetstream ... https://twitter.com/Limecello/status/...
They're the perfect fit and perfect foils. I can't remember who/if/when it's summed up but ... - it was said that Jonathan's biggest fear is becoming his [biological] father, and Blanka's biggest fear is marrying hers.
OOF the problems in the marriages of the [older] secondary characters. I ... kinda wished Blanka's mom would leave her dad but ... :\ ... and Jonathan's parents - that super stressed me out too. I kinda felt it "resolved" too easily considering how much attention was given to their problems ... but I DID like that it was thankfully resolved - and even better than I thought.
SO!
They're just so super cute! And they fit! And they were going to "fling" and a tiny bit I was like "ugh we just read this book" [granted most people don't read these books back to back since there is time between release but like - that should be a thing the author avoids instead of the reader having to avoid...] BUT! Very quickly they're like "yeah this is a relationship." [Granted ... that also happens in the previous book but the TONE is just different.]
I liked that the "do-gooder-ness" was critically viewed; like Jonathan considered if he was doing it just to feel better about himself, which yes is a LITTLE part of it - but it ... it's hard to explain. You have to read it. Anyway his motives were good and HE is a good person - although with a crippling need to please everyone. I think he says "welcome to the world of crippling empathy" and ... I felt that in my soul.
I L O V E D that Jonathan greeted Blanka's mom first.
[I think ... was it Archie? OMG. So random, but also so lovely - and ... I mean their "dates" were always ... "interruptus" - it was kinda their thing]
It's a really cute fun book - and Blanka is awesome. She's SUPER smart, obviously there are issues with family/relationships - BECAUSE of her parents ... but she's also not willing to be a doormat - I loved/hated the dinner scene because I was so distressed but I loved how she walked out.
I ALSO loved that there wasn't some stupid dark moment. Like ... god just thinking about it I feel slightly sick in/to my stomach - but it didn't drag on, it wasn't contrived, it made sense, AND it was just ... well done.
Obviously I don't expect everything to be perfect. And it wasn't - but it all works out, because romance. <3
Anyway I can totally see myself re-reading this book.
I think it might be my favorite in the series.
B- or B--
Oof to Jonathan and Blanka. THEY'RE SO FREAKING CUTE TOGETHER.
there was this tweetstream ... https://twitter.com/Limecello/status/...
They're the perfect fit and perfect foils. I can't remember who/if/when it's summed up but ... - it was said that Jonathan's biggest fear is becoming his [biological] father, and Blanka's biggest fear is marrying hers.
OOF the problems in the marriages of the [older] secondary characters. I ... kinda wished Blanka's mom would leave her dad but ... :\ ... and Jonathan's parents - that super stressed me out too. I kinda felt it "resolved" too easily considering how much attention was given to their problems ... but I DID like that it was thankfully resolved - and even better than I thought.
SO!
They're just so super cute! And they fit! And they were going to "fling" and a tiny bit I was like "ugh we just read this book" [granted most people don't read these books back to back since there is time between release but like - that should be a thing the author avoids instead of the reader having to avoid...] BUT! Very quickly they're like "yeah this is a relationship." [Granted ... that also happens in the previous book but the TONE is just different.]
I liked that the "do-gooder-ness" was critically viewed; like Jonathan considered if he was doing it just to feel better about himself, which yes is a LITTLE part of it - but it ... it's hard to explain. You have to read it. Anyway his motives were good and HE is a good person - although with a crippling need to please everyone. I think he says "welcome to the world of crippling empathy" and ... I felt that in my soul.
I L O V E D that Jonathan greeted Blanka's mom first.
[I think ... was it Archie? OMG. So random, but also so lovely - and ... I mean their "dates" were always ... "interruptus" - it was kinda their thing]
It's a really cute fun book - and Blanka is awesome. She's SUPER smart, obviously there are issues with family/relationships - BECAUSE of her parents ... but she's also not willing to be a doormat - I loved/hated the dinner scene because I was so distressed but I loved how she walked out.
I ALSO loved that there wasn't some stupid dark moment. Like ... god just thinking about it I feel slightly sick in/to my stomach - but it didn't drag on, it wasn't contrived, it made sense, AND it was just ... well done.
Obviously I don't expect everything to be perfect. And it wasn't - but it all works out, because romance. <3
Anyway I can totally see myself re-reading this book.
I think it might be my favorite in the series.
B- or B--
September 26, 2020
4.5 stars. I so enjoy this author’s style of writing. She creates interesting and unique characters, full of subtle but hilarious humor and intelligence. Her writing and the characters’ dialogue sparkle.
Jonathan was an awesome example of a truly kind and good guy, and Blanka was so good for him. I truly enjoyed all their unique interactions and discussions of the bizarre idioms in language. I don’t think they ever actually went out on a date, so I was a bit shocked when they said I love you so soon. However, it made sense at that point in the story, and it all played out well at the end. This author is on my short list of must by authors.
Jonathan was an awesome example of a truly kind and good guy, and Blanka was so good for him. I truly enjoyed all their unique interactions and discussions of the bizarre idioms in language. I don’t think they ever actually went out on a date, so I was a bit shocked when they said I love you so soon. However, it made sense at that point in the story, and it all played out well at the end. This author is on my short list of must by authors.
September 21, 2020
This is my first book in the series, I didn't realise it was the 7th sequel when I started. So I had a hard time to cope with all the names and get the the family tree strait. There are authors who treat their readers with a roster of characters or even a family tree and/or explain more of the preliminary events.
I was soon fed up having to read every other page what a good and helpful person the hero was, the same applies to the heroine's father ( where did his wealth come from?).
I liked the heroine's explanations of English language and idioms.
DNF, sorry not my cup of tea.
I was soon fed up having to read every other page what a good and helpful person the hero was, the same applies to the heroine's father ( where did his wealth come from?).
I liked the heroine's explanations of English language and idioms.
DNF, sorry not my cup of tea.
February 12, 2024
Exceptionally warm story
Tawna Fenske's Ponderosa Resort series just keeps getting better. You know from the start that Jon & Blanka will get their HEA but it's the sweet way it happens that's the best part of the story. One other couple figures things out while unfortunately another one does not. The author either had to do a phenomenal amount of research for this book or had some family medical issues herself. Great plot & editing for this story. And some sneaky kudos to her author friends included.
Tawna Fenske's Ponderosa Resort series just keeps getting better. You know from the start that Jon & Blanka will get their HEA but it's the sweet way it happens that's the best part of the story. One other couple figures things out while unfortunately another one does not. The author either had to do a phenomenal amount of research for this book or had some family medical issues herself. Great plot & editing for this story. And some sneaky kudos to her author friends included.
November 2, 2019
4 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 8, 2019
Jonathan Bracelyn pours his soul into saving the world, and he’s still nowhere near cancelling out the sins of dear ol’ dad. But when a medical crisis prompts Jon to toss his sister the ultimate lifeline, he’s forced to hang up his captain’s hat and hit pause on the one thing that makes him…well, him.
At least he has Blanka Pavlo’s heart-flooding smile to buoy his spirits. A brilliant scientist, she knows things can’t last with the do-gooder Bracelyn brother. Not even if he kisses like a dream and boasts biceps as hefty as his heart. Blanka’s learned the hard way how lonely life is in the shadow of a saint, so she’s giving the hottie hero a wide berth.
Except Jonathan sucks at self-care, so maybe she’ll lend a hand (and other tingly parts) to help him out. Soon, they’re bonding over awkward bubble baths and a disturbingly homely cat, while struggling to remember it’s all temporary. But the harder they brace for goodbye, the louder their hearts declare they’re already in too deep.
•••••••••
REVIEW: CAPTAIN DREAM BOAT is the sixth instalment in Tawna Fenske’s contemporary, adult PONDEROSA RESORT ROMANTIC COMDEDY erotic, romantic series focusing on the Bracelyn siblings and the people who work at Ponderosa Resort. This is sailing captain / philanthropist Jonathan Bracelyn, and scientist Blanka Pavlo’s story line. CAPTAIN DREAMBOAT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalment is revealed where necessary.
SOME BACKGROUND: A few years earlier the Bracelyn patriarch, Cort Bracelyn, died leaving his eldest son James to pick up the pieces of his billion dollar estate, an estate to be divided between his five children (Bree, Sean, James, Mark, and Jonathan ) all born of different mothers. The Ponderosa Resort is the family lodge where each of the now adult children lives and works. But to no one’s surprise, additional siblings continue to climb out of the proverbial woodwork.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Jonathan and Blanka) CAPTAIN DREAMBOAT follows the building relationship between sailing captain / philanthropist Jonathan Bracelyn, and scientist Blanka Pavlo. At the wedding of his sister Bree Bracelyn to Austin Dugan (Sargeant Sexypants #3), sailing captain and philanthropist Jonathan Bracelyn will come face to face with the woman he met one month earlier at the local grade school career day. Blanka Pavlo knew immediately that something wasn’t right with Jonathan’s sister Isabella, something that would bring Jonathan closer to the sibling he had met only weeks before. A medical emergency finds Isabella the recipient of Jonathan’s kidney, and Jonathan the recipient of tender loving care from the woman with whom he would fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Blanka and Jonathan, and the potential fall-out as neither Jonathan nor Blanka’s lifestyles are conducive to settling down or a long-term affair.
Jonathan Bracelyn is all about giving back; about helping out those less fortunate including the overseas rescue of migrants who would otherwise be lost to the waters and oceans of the Earth. Never one to settle down for too long, Jonathan finds himself struggling with his recovery when all he wants to do is move on and out. Blanka Pavlo has watched her parent’s marriage deteriorate as her Nobel Prize winning father searched for the next big thing, leaving his family in the wake of his own philanthropic ways. To Blanka’s surprise, she soon begins to realize that the man with whom she is falling in love is more like her father than she could have ever imagined. Having witnessed first hand her mother’s slow decent in loneliness and heartbreak, Blanka must make a decision as it pertains to her future, and the future of the man with whom she fell in love.
The relationship between Blanka and Jonathan is one of immediate attraction but the romance is placed on hold when Jonathan offers up a kidney to his ailing sister. When Jonathan gets the all clear, our hero begins a slow seduction of Blanka Pavlo, a seduction that is derailed when Jonathan meets Blanka’s father. The Sex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are re-introduced to Jonathan’s siblings: Sean Bracelyn and Amber King (Chef Sugarlips #2), Bree Bracelyn and Austin Dugan (Sargeant Sexypants #3), Mark Bracelyn and Chelsea Singer (Hottie Lumberjack #4), as well as Chelsea’s daughter Libby, James Bracelyn and Lily Archer (Stiff Suit #5), newest sibling Isabella Blankenship; Jonathan’s mother Wendy and her husband retired US Coast Guard Admiral Chuck, as well as Jonathan’s half-sister Gretchen. We are introduced to Blanka’s parents Galyna Pavlo and Thomas Kushnir Kramer, as well as Dr. Bradley Parker. Gretchen and Gable find their own happily ever after in Snowbound Squeeze (Jan 2020); Bradley and Isabella’s story will be found in Dr. Hot Stuff (2020).
CAPTAIN DREAMBOAT is a story of family, friendship, romance and love; a story of betrayal and acceptance; of desperately trying to move on from the past. The premise is entertaining, romantic and captivatin; the characters are energetic, colorful and engaging; the romance is seductive and hot. CAPTAIN DREAMBOAT has a little bit of heart break, a little bit of humor and a whole lot of heart.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 8, 2019
Jonathan Bracelyn pours his soul into saving the world, and he’s still nowhere near cancelling out the sins of dear ol’ dad. But when a medical crisis prompts Jon to toss his sister the ultimate lifeline, he’s forced to hang up his captain’s hat and hit pause on the one thing that makes him…well, him.
At least he has Blanka Pavlo’s heart-flooding smile to buoy his spirits. A brilliant scientist, she knows things can’t last with the do-gooder Bracelyn brother. Not even if he kisses like a dream and boasts biceps as hefty as his heart. Blanka’s learned the hard way how lonely life is in the shadow of a saint, so she’s giving the hottie hero a wide berth.
Except Jonathan sucks at self-care, so maybe she’ll lend a hand (and other tingly parts) to help him out. Soon, they’re bonding over awkward bubble baths and a disturbingly homely cat, while struggling to remember it’s all temporary. But the harder they brace for goodbye, the louder their hearts declare they’re already in too deep.
•••••••••
REVIEW: CAPTAIN DREAM BOAT is the sixth instalment in Tawna Fenske’s contemporary, adult PONDEROSA RESORT ROMANTIC COMDEDY erotic, romantic series focusing on the Bracelyn siblings and the people who work at Ponderosa Resort. This is sailing captain / philanthropist Jonathan Bracelyn, and scientist Blanka Pavlo’s story line. CAPTAIN DREAMBOAT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalment is revealed where necessary.
SOME BACKGROUND: A few years earlier the Bracelyn patriarch, Cort Bracelyn, died leaving his eldest son James to pick up the pieces of his billion dollar estate, an estate to be divided between his five children (Bree, Sean, James, Mark, and Jonathan ) all born of different mothers. The Ponderosa Resort is the family lodge where each of the now adult children lives and works. But to no one’s surprise, additional siblings continue to climb out of the proverbial woodwork.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Jonathan and Blanka) CAPTAIN DREAMBOAT follows the building relationship between sailing captain / philanthropist Jonathan Bracelyn, and scientist Blanka Pavlo. At the wedding of his sister Bree Bracelyn to Austin Dugan (Sargeant Sexypants #3), sailing captain and philanthropist Jonathan Bracelyn will come face to face with the woman he met one month earlier at the local grade school career day. Blanka Pavlo knew immediately that something wasn’t right with Jonathan’s sister Isabella, something that would bring Jonathan closer to the sibling he had met only weeks before. A medical emergency finds Isabella the recipient of Jonathan’s kidney, and Jonathan the recipient of tender loving care from the woman with whom he would fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Blanka and Jonathan, and the potential fall-out as neither Jonathan nor Blanka’s lifestyles are conducive to settling down or a long-term affair.
Jonathan Bracelyn is all about giving back; about helping out those less fortunate including the overseas rescue of migrants who would otherwise be lost to the waters and oceans of the Earth. Never one to settle down for too long, Jonathan finds himself struggling with his recovery when all he wants to do is move on and out. Blanka Pavlo has watched her parent’s marriage deteriorate as her Nobel Prize winning father searched for the next big thing, leaving his family in the wake of his own philanthropic ways. To Blanka’s surprise, she soon begins to realize that the man with whom she is falling in love is more like her father than she could have ever imagined. Having witnessed first hand her mother’s slow decent in loneliness and heartbreak, Blanka must make a decision as it pertains to her future, and the future of the man with whom she fell in love.
The relationship between Blanka and Jonathan is one of immediate attraction but the romance is placed on hold when Jonathan offers up a kidney to his ailing sister. When Jonathan gets the all clear, our hero begins a slow seduction of Blanka Pavlo, a seduction that is derailed when Jonathan meets Blanka’s father. The Sex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are re-introduced to Jonathan’s siblings: Sean Bracelyn and Amber King (Chef Sugarlips #2), Bree Bracelyn and Austin Dugan (Sargeant Sexypants #3), Mark Bracelyn and Chelsea Singer (Hottie Lumberjack #4), as well as Chelsea’s daughter Libby, James Bracelyn and Lily Archer (Stiff Suit #5), newest sibling Isabella Blankenship; Jonathan’s mother Wendy and her husband retired US Coast Guard Admiral Chuck, as well as Jonathan’s half-sister Gretchen. We are introduced to Blanka’s parents Galyna Pavlo and Thomas Kushnir Kramer, as well as Dr. Bradley Parker. Gretchen and Gable find their own happily ever after in Snowbound Squeeze (Jan 2020); Bradley and Isabella’s story will be found in Dr. Hot Stuff (2020).
CAPTAIN DREAMBOAT is a story of family, friendship, romance and love; a story of betrayal and acceptance; of desperately trying to move on from the past. The premise is entertaining, romantic and captivatin; the characters are energetic, colorful and engaging; the romance is seductive and hot. CAPTAIN DREAMBOAT has a little bit of heart break, a little bit of humor and a whole lot of heart.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
January 30, 2020
I liked all of Blanka's science facts and random trivia, and thought that for the most part she and Jonathan complemented each other well. The big misunderstanding and the kiss and make up came a bit too late in the book and a bit too close together for me to fully believe in them, but I still think that Blanka and Jon will have their HEA, though they need to work on communicating with one another. Having both sets of parents there to act as mirrors to their relationship was nice as well, and I have hope for Jon's parents, but sadly I think Blanka's parents are too set in their ways for it to work between them.
Bonus kitty cat in this book was extra-cute!
Bonus kitty cat in this book was extra-cute!
April 20, 2020
I just love Tawna Fenske's writing. She never fails to put a smile on my face while I'm reading if not a chuckle here and there and she didnt fail in this book either. This is the story of Jonathan. He's the brother that's not around Ponderosa Ranch that often, so we learn all about him. This is #7 in an 8 book series but can be read as a standalone. Obviously better if read in order in series though. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
September 28, 2020
Loved the humor in this book! Jonathan and Blanko really start talking at Jonathan's sister's wedding. Jonathan in the hospital is funny when he first wakes up. When the two take a canoe trip and meet a family that makes you laugh and realize that not all families are as perfect as they seem. Jessica the cat was adorable! Loved this book! This series is so good and I can't wait to read more in this series!
March 31, 2020
Plenty of fun with language
A reminder that the English language is full of phrases that can be mystifying for folks who didn't grow up speaking it. Or just plain odd. Blanks and Jon's story is fun and interesting. The author reminds us that we can provide support for those in need in our communities.
A reminder that the English language is full of phrases that can be mystifying for folks who didn't grow up speaking it. Or just plain odd. Blanks and Jon's story is fun and interesting. The author reminds us that we can provide support for those in need in our communities.
September 10, 2020
Okay read
Okay read to help pass a few hours. Light and fluffy with a reasonable storyline. Liked both main characters although didn’t like the father who felt doing for others was his purpose, didn’t like his coldness to wife or family and would have liked his wife to have left him. Okay read.
Okay read to help pass a few hours. Light and fluffy with a reasonable storyline. Liked both main characters although didn’t like the father who felt doing for others was his purpose, didn’t like his coldness to wife or family and would have liked his wife to have left him. Okay read.
September 28, 2020
Jonathan is such a do-gooder. His only flaw is not wanting to be like his philandering father.
I didn't find anything really interesting about the character.
Blanka is just as vanilla. I like her propensity to impart linguistic information, often at odd moments, but her character too felt a bit lacking.
As for the romance, well, it was practically instalove.
I didn't find anything really interesting about the character.
Blanka is just as vanilla. I like her propensity to impart linguistic information, often at odd moments, but her character too felt a bit lacking.
As for the romance, well, it was practically instalove.
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