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Dauntless Island #1
Dauntless
Joe Nesmith leads a peaceful life as the lighthouse keeper on Dauntless Island, a small island off the coast of Australia where the occupants are proud of their mutinous history and have very long memories.
When graduate student Eddie Hawthorne comes to Dauntless, he brings with him a historical diary that might just throw everything the islanders have ever believed into disarray—and one of them might even resort to deadly measures to make sure that Eddie’s research never sees the light of day.
When Eddie is attacked, Joe is drawn in to helping him discover which of the islanders could have done such a thing. The rising attraction between them doesn’t mean anything, right? It’s just a fling. But while Joe find himself wishing more and more that Eddie could stay on Dauntless, it’s clear that somebody else wants Eddie gone, permanently. And when the attacker escalates to murder, both Joe and Eddie find themselves in danger of Dauntless Island’s bloody history repeating itself.
Dauntless is a 30 000 word novella.
When graduate student Eddie Hawthorne comes to Dauntless, he brings with him a historical diary that might just throw everything the islanders have ever believed into disarray—and one of them might even resort to deadly measures to make sure that Eddie’s research never sees the light of day.
When Eddie is attacked, Joe is drawn in to helping him discover which of the islanders could have done such a thing. The rising attraction between them doesn’t mean anything, right? It’s just a fling. But while Joe find himself wishing more and more that Eddie could stay on Dauntless, it’s clear that somebody else wants Eddie gone, permanently. And when the attacker escalates to murder, both Joe and Eddie find themselves in danger of Dauntless Island’s bloody history repeating itself.
Dauntless is a 30 000 word novella.
108 pages, ebook
First published September 18, 2019
About the author
Lisa Henry
107 books2,332 followersI like to tell stories. Mostly with hot guys and happily ever afters. They gotta work for it though. No free lunches on my watch.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
November 24, 2019
Wow, this was really good. I loved every single detail about this story.
It is a pirate themed gay Romeo and Juliet with a historical spin that I found quite unique.
Dauntless Island is a remote island in the Pacific off the Australian coast. It was founded by the crew of the Dauntless, a marine ship that got shipwrecked on the island's shore.
Legend goes that Captain Hawthorne was a cruel tyrant and an officer named Joseph Nesmith led a mutiny against him and Hawthorne was hanged on the island.
Now, 200 years later the small island population still lives their historical roots, keeping Red Joe Nesmith, the great great whatever grandson of the famous Nesmith in high regards. Joe is the lighthouse keeper on the island and a rather solitary character.
One day a student shows up on the island wanting to write a thesis about Hawthorne and Nesmith and how history needed to be corrected because not Hawthorne but Nesmith had really been the bad guy.
And the student's name is Eddie Hawthorne.
Joe is desperately trying to prevent a new modern day mutiny on the small island when the Islanders are trying to defend their version of history at all costs - some of them even willing to kill for it. And handsome Eddie soon has a bullseye painted on his forehead as he walks Dauntless island to research his thesis.
It's a great story. As a novella it's neither long nor overly complex but it worked absolutely perfectly for me!
I loved the atmosphere, the quirky characters and the interesting approach to a unique plot.
Definitely a 5 star recommendation !
It is a pirate themed gay Romeo and Juliet with a historical spin that I found quite unique.
Dauntless Island is a remote island in the Pacific off the Australian coast. It was founded by the crew of the Dauntless, a marine ship that got shipwrecked on the island's shore.
Legend goes that Captain Hawthorne was a cruel tyrant and an officer named Joseph Nesmith led a mutiny against him and Hawthorne was hanged on the island.
Now, 200 years later the small island population still lives their historical roots, keeping Red Joe Nesmith, the great great whatever grandson of the famous Nesmith in high regards. Joe is the lighthouse keeper on the island and a rather solitary character.
One day a student shows up on the island wanting to write a thesis about Hawthorne and Nesmith and how history needed to be corrected because not Hawthorne but Nesmith had really been the bad guy.
And the student's name is Eddie Hawthorne.
Joe is desperately trying to prevent a new modern day mutiny on the small island when the Islanders are trying to defend their version of history at all costs - some of them even willing to kill for it. And handsome Eddie soon has a bullseye painted on his forehead as he walks Dauntless island to research his thesis.
It's a great story. As a novella it's neither long nor overly complex but it worked absolutely perfectly for me!
I loved the atmosphere, the quirky characters and the interesting approach to a unique plot.
Definitely a 5 star recommendation !
Read
September 17, 2019It's murder. But it's fluffy murder.
There's two guys, a dog, and a tiny, tiny murder on a tiny, tiny island.
It's a short fluffy read, and I hope you guys enjoy it!
There's two guys, a dog, and a tiny, tiny murder on a tiny, tiny island.
It's a short fluffy read, and I hope you guys enjoy it!
July 20, 2025
2.5
I enjoyed this at first. I liked Joe and Eddie as characters. The historical element was interesting. I was looking forward to see how everyone would react on learning what really happened. Sadly, we don't get that. And the names were fun.
I didn't like the direction the story took after the diary was stolen – Eddie's sudden mistrust, the events that followed (very far-fetched), and how everyone thought Eddie was to blame and wanted to go after him. It felt creepy, to be honest. I'd never set foot on that island. The resolution and the ending were rushed. And so did the relationship between Joe and Eddie.
I enjoyed this at first. I liked Joe and Eddie as characters. The historical element was interesting. I was looking forward to see how everyone would react on learning what really happened. Sadly, we don't get that. And the names were fun.
I didn't like the direction the story took after the diary was stolen – Eddie's sudden mistrust, the events that followed (very far-fetched), and how everyone thought Eddie was to blame and wanted to go after him. It felt creepy, to be honest. I'd never set foot on that island. The resolution and the ending were rushed. And so did the relationship between Joe and Eddie.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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March 25, 2026
Dauntless is book one in the Dauntless Island series by Lisa Henry and J.A. Rock. This is MM romance with some mystery/suspense.
Joe Nesmith is twenty eight years old. He grew up on Dauntless Island, which is a small island of about three hundred residents. This community has a deep connection to their history. The residents are almost all descendants of the original founders of the island, Joe being directly descended from the original Josiah Nesmith. Joe is the lighthouse keeper and lives in the adjacent cottage. He has other responsibilities as well, and the residents respect him. He lives with his very silly black lab, Hiccup.
Eddie Hawthorne is a graduate student, working on his thesis. He has a diary that changes everything that the Dauntless residents believe. Eddie is using this diary as a basis for his thesis and has decided to spend a week on the island doing research.
Life on this island is not easy. It is four hours to the mainland so they have to be somewhat self-sufficient. Eddie never anticipated that the people of Dauntless might not be happy with the information contained in his diary. When he is attacked on his second night, he ends up at the lighthouse for help.
Eddie and Joe, both descended from men who played a big part of the history of the island, who were enemies, make a connection that neither can resist. They both know their time together is limited, they can’t hold back their feelings. At the same time, danger is in the air as someone doesn’t want the information in that diary revealed. Will Eddie and Joe be able to explore their new found romance, or will Eddie live long enough to find out?
I was pretty excited about this book. It sounded so different and the idea of this island really intrigued me. While I enjoyed it, it didn’t blow me away the way I thought it would. The residents are quirky and I enjoyed Eddie and Joe as a couple, especially with their history. Joe’s dog was the cutest. The next book is called Lawless. The island is finally going to get a police officer! I haven’t decided, yet, if I plan to read it.
Joe Nesmith is twenty eight years old. He grew up on Dauntless Island, which is a small island of about three hundred residents. This community has a deep connection to their history. The residents are almost all descendants of the original founders of the island, Joe being directly descended from the original Josiah Nesmith. Joe is the lighthouse keeper and lives in the adjacent cottage. He has other responsibilities as well, and the residents respect him. He lives with his very silly black lab, Hiccup.
Eddie Hawthorne is a graduate student, working on his thesis. He has a diary that changes everything that the Dauntless residents believe. Eddie is using this diary as a basis for his thesis and has decided to spend a week on the island doing research.
Life on this island is not easy. It is four hours to the mainland so they have to be somewhat self-sufficient. Eddie never anticipated that the people of Dauntless might not be happy with the information contained in his diary. When he is attacked on his second night, he ends up at the lighthouse for help.
Eddie and Joe, both descended from men who played a big part of the history of the island, who were enemies, make a connection that neither can resist. They both know their time together is limited, they can’t hold back their feelings. At the same time, danger is in the air as someone doesn’t want the information in that diary revealed. Will Eddie and Joe be able to explore their new found romance, or will Eddie live long enough to find out?
I was pretty excited about this book. It sounded so different and the idea of this island really intrigued me. While I enjoyed it, it didn’t blow me away the way I thought it would. The residents are quirky and I enjoyed Eddie and Joe as a couple, especially with their history. Joe’s dog was the cutest. The next book is called Lawless. The island is finally going to get a police officer! I haven’t decided, yet, if I plan to read it.
June 20, 2025
I enjoyed this story so much!!
An isolated small community on an island in the Pacific where everyone knows each other, and no one ever locks their doors, is rocked by assault, theft and murder!!! I loved how everyone became a suspect, but I was also really entertained by how they treated Eddie, the outsider, and his volatile connection to their island's history.
Joe and Eddie are really sweet together, and although they're fairly instalove their story did feel complete. I am curious about some of the other islanders though, and I love how they have their own naming conventions but I feel like I need some kind of family tree diagram to keep track of the characters because they all have the same names!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Lisa Henry, and this is my honest review
An isolated small community on an island in the Pacific where everyone knows each other, and no one ever locks their doors, is rocked by assault, theft and murder!!! I loved how everyone became a suspect, but I was also really entertained by how they treated Eddie, the outsider, and his volatile connection to their island's history.
Joe and Eddie are really sweet together, and although they're fairly instalove their story did feel complete. I am curious about some of the other islanders though, and I love how they have their own naming conventions but I feel like I need some kind of family tree diagram to keep track of the characters because they all have the same names!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Lisa Henry, and this is my honest review
January 19, 2020
3.5 stars
I loved the setting and the atmosphere of the island, with all its inhabitants and their dynamic. The mystery wasn’t particularly convoluted or surprising, but it was interesting because it allowed the author to explore the island’s history and how it still affected the lives of the islanders.
The MCs and the relationship had as much depth as you can expect from a short story, and they get bonus points from me for not falling into too obvious insta-love territory despite the length of the book. On the other hand, I was never all that interested in the relationship. Eddie didn’t really come alive for me, maybe because we don’t have his POV.
On the plus side, some of Joe and Eddie’s exchanges made me laugh, and Joe’s dog and her name, which I’m not saying to not spoil the surprise, were one of the best thing in the entire story.
Rounding down because GR says I have to choose between 3 and 4 stars and, from a purely emotional perspective, Dauntless didn’t make as much of an impact as the other Lisa Henry short I read a few days ago and I want my rating to reflect that.
Also, there were a lot of typos and missing words in this book, much more than I’m used to see by this author.
I loved the setting and the atmosphere of the island, with all its inhabitants and their dynamic. The mystery wasn’t particularly convoluted or surprising, but it was interesting because it allowed the author to explore the island’s history and how it still affected the lives of the islanders.
The MCs and the relationship had as much depth as you can expect from a short story, and they get bonus points from me for not falling into too obvious insta-love territory despite the length of the book. On the other hand, I was never all that interested in the relationship. Eddie didn’t really come alive for me, maybe because we don’t have his POV.
On the plus side, some of Joe and Eddie’s exchanges made me laugh, and Joe’s dog and her name, which I’m not saying to not spoil the surprise, were one of the best thing in the entire story.
Rounding down because GR says I have to choose between 3 and 4 stars and, from a purely emotional perspective, Dauntless didn’t make as much of an impact as the other Lisa Henry short I read a few days ago and I want my rating to reflect that.
Also, there were a lot of typos and missing words in this book, much more than I’m used to see by this author.
January 19, 2020
A really cute story, and I enjoyed every page. I wouldn't say it brought all the feels, but it did make me laugh and awww, and there's a lot to be said for that.
Recommended ❤️
Recommended ❤️
January 20, 2021
Caught between the devil and the deep blue sea is a place called Dauntless. Or at least, I think so. And what a mystical place it is! Doesn’t seem to matter what type of adventure Henry takes me on, I always have a fabulous time. This round was a mystery, a murder mystery to be exact. If you’re thinking dark and tense, you’d be wrong. Despite the murder, it was enjoyable and lighthearted. Coming in under 150 pages, it flew by but I was smiling the entire time.
What's to like: I’ve been drawn to lighthouses for as long as I can remember. Every summer we pack up for a week of exploring, off to discover new hidden places in the beauty of my state. My daughter loves waterfalling but I always sneak a few new lighthouses into our trips. They are all so different yet fundamentally the same. Like a fantasy, I’m given the impression that they are eternal and misted with glamour. Technology has stolen the need for a keeper but most require supervision to a certain degree. The lighthouse on Dauntless has a keeper, Joe Nesmith otherwise known as Red Joe. His duties are minimal but still important. He was born on Dauntless and will most likely die there too. It’s in his blood. Blood ties run thick on Dauntless and memories are even deeper. Small towns are like families, there are no secrets or strangers. Until one day, Dauntless has both. The stranger carries a familiar last name and the secrets are yours to uncover.
What's to love: Forbidden love is one of my favorite things! And there’s nothing more forbidden than a Hawthorn and a Nesmith…together. Eddie Hawthorn wears his innocence on his face and his heart on his sleeve. I adored his carefree nature and fierce tenacity. Joe quickly fell under his spell and was thrilled with the possibility of dating in Dauntless, something he never anticipated doing. Joe is under no illusion that this is anything more than a quick fling but he loves having Eddie on the island. Unfortunately, he’s alone in that aspect. And when one of their own is murdered, all eyes fall on Eddie. Hearts are breaking and there’s a killer on the loose. But if there’s one thing you can count on in a small town is everyone pulling together when the seas are rough. I loved the passion between the guys, the heart of the townspeople, the mysterious past, and the breathtaking scenery. Oh, and I can’t forget Hiccup, she was the best!
Beware of: A swift fall with sure arms waiting. A battle of pride and humility with only one winner. And the gentle reminder that light and love often go hand in hand.
This book is for: Anyone searching for a romantic whodunit with two strangers linked by their past, fighting for their future, Dauntless should be your next destination!
Book UNfunk
What's to like: I’ve been drawn to lighthouses for as long as I can remember. Every summer we pack up for a week of exploring, off to discover new hidden places in the beauty of my state. My daughter loves waterfalling but I always sneak a few new lighthouses into our trips. They are all so different yet fundamentally the same. Like a fantasy, I’m given the impression that they are eternal and misted with glamour. Technology has stolen the need for a keeper but most require supervision to a certain degree. The lighthouse on Dauntless has a keeper, Joe Nesmith otherwise known as Red Joe. His duties are minimal but still important. He was born on Dauntless and will most likely die there too. It’s in his blood. Blood ties run thick on Dauntless and memories are even deeper. Small towns are like families, there are no secrets or strangers. Until one day, Dauntless has both. The stranger carries a familiar last name and the secrets are yours to uncover.
What's to love: Forbidden love is one of my favorite things! And there’s nothing more forbidden than a Hawthorn and a Nesmith…together. Eddie Hawthorn wears his innocence on his face and his heart on his sleeve. I adored his carefree nature and fierce tenacity. Joe quickly fell under his spell and was thrilled with the possibility of dating in Dauntless, something he never anticipated doing. Joe is under no illusion that this is anything more than a quick fling but he loves having Eddie on the island. Unfortunately, he’s alone in that aspect. And when one of their own is murdered, all eyes fall on Eddie. Hearts are breaking and there’s a killer on the loose. But if there’s one thing you can count on in a small town is everyone pulling together when the seas are rough. I loved the passion between the guys, the heart of the townspeople, the mysterious past, and the breathtaking scenery. Oh, and I can’t forget Hiccup, she was the best!
Beware of: A swift fall with sure arms waiting. A battle of pride and humility with only one winner. And the gentle reminder that light and love often go hand in hand.
This book is for: Anyone searching for a romantic whodunit with two strangers linked by their past, fighting for their future, Dauntless should be your next destination!
Book UNfunk
July 13, 2025
Safety info, content warnings and tropes down below.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2020
3.5 stars
I liked this much better than The Dreams You Made in the Dirt. The characters made more sense, for starters, and I liked the dynamic between Joe and Eddie when we got to see it. The isolated island atmosphere was ever-present and the history of the island's initial inhabitants was interesting. The current residents all kind of ran together, but they were basically of the "rustic but kooky" variety. And I adored Hiccup the dog.
There was a bit too much repetition for such a short story. Don't worry if you forget the island was founded by mutineers and that Hawthornes are bad blood and Nesmiths are awesome sauce. You'll be reminded every five pages or so, if not sooner. The "mystery" was once again not very fleshed out and pretty obvious, but I guess there had to be some sort of conflict, so it was better than nothing. A little more time spent with the MCs when they just got to be goofy and together would've gone a long way to nudging this one up to a full four stars.
I liked this much better than The Dreams You Made in the Dirt. The characters made more sense, for starters, and I liked the dynamic between Joe and Eddie when we got to see it. The isolated island atmosphere was ever-present and the history of the island's initial inhabitants was interesting. The current residents all kind of ran together, but they were basically of the "rustic but kooky" variety. And I adored Hiccup the dog.
There was a bit too much repetition for such a short story. Don't worry if you forget the island was founded by mutineers and that Hawthornes are bad blood and Nesmiths are awesome sauce. You'll be reminded every five pages or so, if not sooner. The "mystery" was once again not very fleshed out and pretty obvious, but I guess there had to be some sort of conflict, so it was better than nothing. A little more time spent with the MCs when they just got to be goofy and together would've gone a long way to nudging this one up to a full four stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2019
Another lovely read from Lisa Henry.
Dauntless is a lovely short novel set on an isolated island in the Pacific Ocean, inhabited by the heirs of a bunch of British mutineers. Part Cabot Cove and part Midsomer, Dauntless island is populated by eccentric characters often identified by their nicknames (that are essential to distinguish them, given the constant repetition of the same surnames).
Keeper of the island's lighthouse and a direct descendant of local hero Josiah Nesmith, Red Joe Nesmith finds himself in the middle of a mystery when a young historian (and heir of the despised villain George Hawthorne) shows up on the island claiming that the whole story of the mutiny is based on falsity and lies.
Is Eddie Hawthorne telling the truth? And who was the real villain in the story of HMS Dauntless and its crew?
Lisa Henry combines the tone of a cozy mystery with overtones of social comedy and the result is a truly enjoyable reading experience.
The MCs are lovely and well-rounded and the cast of secondary characters provides a very intriguing network of social relations and quirky behaviours.
I've now read three books by Lisa Henry and I really enjoy her ability to change pace and tone with ease, from intense ( When All the World Sleeps ) to melancholic ( One Perfect Night ) to the lighthearted and delightful Dauntless.
If you're looking for a relaxing and rewarding read, this might be the right choice.
Dauntless is a lovely short novel set on an isolated island in the Pacific Ocean, inhabited by the heirs of a bunch of British mutineers. Part Cabot Cove and part Midsomer, Dauntless island is populated by eccentric characters often identified by their nicknames (that are essential to distinguish them, given the constant repetition of the same surnames).
Keeper of the island's lighthouse and a direct descendant of local hero Josiah Nesmith, Red Joe Nesmith finds himself in the middle of a mystery when a young historian (and heir of the despised villain George Hawthorne) shows up on the island claiming that the whole story of the mutiny is based on falsity and lies.
Is Eddie Hawthorne telling the truth? And who was the real villain in the story of HMS Dauntless and its crew?
Lisa Henry combines the tone of a cozy mystery with overtones of social comedy and the result is a truly enjoyable reading experience.
The MCs are lovely and well-rounded and the cast of secondary characters provides a very intriguing network of social relations and quirky behaviours.
I've now read three books by Lisa Henry and I really enjoy her ability to change pace and tone with ease, from intense ( When All the World Sleeps ) to melancholic ( One Perfect Night ) to the lighthearted and delightful Dauntless.
If you're looking for a relaxing and rewarding read, this might be the right choice.
December 24, 2019
**Thank you Peaches McJingles**
November 29, 2019
This is an imaginative new take on a Romeo and Juliet theme - the keeper of the island's lighthouse and a direct descendant of local hero Josiah Nesmith, is another Joe Nesmith, a young man whose island pride is firmly invested in the story of how Josiah and his crew took down their cruel ship captain George Hawthorne in a righteous mutiny for their freedom. He values his tiny island, his ancestor's heroism, and their connected heritage.
But then graduate student Eddie Hawthorne comes to Dauntless with a tale of having a historical document that proves it was George who was the real hero, trying to keep a lawless crew headed by Josiah from committing vile crimes. That the wrong person won, and then rewrote history.
Eddie's story has the potential to devastate the little island community, both in their personal pride about their ancestry, and in the tourism based on their story. When Eddie is attacked, followed by a murder, it's clear that someone isn't ready to let that happen.
Despite the potentially angsty theme, this story is light and sweet, with a solid main character whose integrity is the center of his actions. The romance is quick and warm, and there's a dog :)
But then graduate student Eddie Hawthorne comes to Dauntless with a tale of having a historical document that proves it was George who was the real hero, trying to keep a lawless crew headed by Josiah from committing vile crimes. That the wrong person won, and then rewrote history.
Eddie's story has the potential to devastate the little island community, both in their personal pride about their ancestry, and in the tourism based on their story. When Eddie is attacked, followed by a murder, it's clear that someone isn't ready to let that happen.
Despite the potentially angsty theme, this story is light and sweet, with a solid main character whose integrity is the center of his actions. The romance is quick and warm, and there's a dog :)
September 29, 2025
I like the authors.
I liked Eddie and Red Joe.
I liked the whole scenario.
And yet, this fell a little bit flat for me.
The romance is lukewarm with very little relationship development, the mystery is the least mysterious I’ve read in a while, and we never find out the ‘truth’ about what happened in the past. Maybe the latter will materialize in following books, but I’m not sure if I'll be there for that.
This was a nice enough read, but totally underwhelming.
Blooming shame.
Best thing is actually the link to the ‘Dauntless Tourist Board Website.’
Fabulous idea, and very funny! I probably enjoyed this more than the book.
I liked Eddie and Red Joe.
I liked the whole scenario.
And yet, this fell a little bit flat for me.
The romance is lukewarm with very little relationship development, the mystery is the least mysterious I’ve read in a while, and we never find out the ‘truth’ about what happened in the past. Maybe the latter will materialize in following books, but I’m not sure if I'll be there for that.
This was a nice enough read, but totally underwhelming.
Blooming shame.
Best thing is actually the link to the ‘Dauntless Tourist Board Website.’
Fabulous idea, and very funny! I probably enjoyed this more than the book.
December 4, 2020
3.5 stars
If this story would have had on page sex, I probably would have rounded up. It was a short and sweet story, though, complete with a murder.
If this story would have had on page sex, I probably would have rounded up. It was a short and sweet story, though, complete with a murder.
November 13, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Lisa Henry admits that Dauntless is a fluffy mystery—one centered more on romance and sweetness than any darker elements. Yes, there is a murder and, yes, there is a mystery aspect that keeps this novella moving swiftly, but it’s really the interactions between Joe and Eddie that take center stage here and make this story sing. Both men are really very attractive, character-wise, and almost make you want to see them happy together from the get go. Joe is a lovely introvert who also has such quiet strength and a deep sense of duty, making him the perfect hero. Eddie is a book nerd, young and enthusiastic, a bit bumbling when it comes to saying the right thing to keep himself out of trouble, and just really adorable overall. In other words, they are relationship gold together.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Lisa Henry admits that Dauntless is a fluffy mystery—one centered more on romance and sweetness than any darker elements. Yes, there is a murder and, yes, there is a mystery aspect that keeps this novella moving swiftly, but it’s really the interactions between Joe and Eddie that take center stage here and make this story sing. Both men are really very attractive, character-wise, and almost make you want to see them happy together from the get go. Joe is a lovely introvert who also has such quiet strength and a deep sense of duty, making him the perfect hero. Eddie is a book nerd, young and enthusiastic, a bit bumbling when it comes to saying the right thing to keep himself out of trouble, and just really adorable overall. In other words, they are relationship gold together.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
September 18, 2019
Oooh, shades of Pitcairn.
A murder/mystery.
A quiet but sweet romance - no on page steam.
Humorous.
Two likeable MCs.
Told through Joe Nesmith's eyes, the great-great-great, "whatever," grandson of the founder of Dauntless Island, this is a quaint snapshot of a remote fictional island off Australia's coastline which resembles Pitcairn, complete with quirky characters.
Hiccup the lab was adorably there with her humans.
Nice reading that's a little different to my other Lisa Henry reads.
Review at-
A murder/mystery.
A quiet but sweet romance - no on page steam.
Humorous.
Two likeable MCs.
Told through Joe Nesmith's eyes, the great-great-great, "whatever," grandson of the founder of Dauntless Island, this is a quaint snapshot of a remote fictional island off Australia's coastline which resembles Pitcairn, complete with quirky characters.
Hiccup the lab was adorably there with her humans.
Nice reading that's a little different to my other Lisa Henry reads.
Review at-
August 15, 2025
I read the original novella when it came out but I didn't remember much from that read. I enjoyed the expanded edition and pretty much read it in one sitting. I found I didn't mind the insta-love as much as I sometimes do. It felt more like 'insta-connection' which works for me.
July 7, 2025
3.75 stars rounded up
This one is a expanded edition of previously released novella with the same name - I read that one few years ago and I called it as fluffy murder. Since I read that Lisa Henry and J.A. Rock decided to make this one a series - the next book is already been listed - I decided to read this new version. Of course, since I don't remember much from the novella anyway, it's like reading a new title! 😄
Dauntless Island folks are very proud of their mutinious history. I wonder if Henry was inspired from the mutiny of The Batavia a Dutch-owned ship that was wrecked in 1600s in Western Australia (I visited the Maritime Museum in Perth and read about it, how the survivors must suffered tyranny, madness, murder and rape). Anyway, yes, they are proud to be descendants of people who brought down Captain George Hawthorne - until one of the great-great-great-great grandsons of Hawthorne came to the island with a diary that probably will debunk that history.
I liked both Red Joe Nesmith and Eddie Hawthorne. Joe was one of those "silent-type" introvert guys who was very solid. Plus he didn't immediately jumped into defending the history of the mutiny, like the rest of the islanders. He was willing to listen to Eddie's part of the history. Eddie was bubbly, in a way. Eddie was so passionate about the history (though he didn't realize that the islanders would be willing to kill him for it) and he was rather cute to read 😄. So together, they made a nice couple
Even if the whole relationship came LIGHTNING FAST - like few days only. But okay, I don't mind it so much this time. I enjoyed the story as a whole.
This one is a expanded edition of previously released novella with the same name - I read that one few years ago and I called it as fluffy murder. Since I read that Lisa Henry and J.A. Rock decided to make this one a series - the next book is already been listed - I decided to read this new version. Of course, since I don't remember much from the novella anyway, it's like reading a new title! 😄
Dauntless Island folks are very proud of their mutinious history. I wonder if Henry was inspired from the mutiny of The Batavia a Dutch-owned ship that was wrecked in 1600s in Western Australia (I visited the Maritime Museum in Perth and read about it, how the survivors must suffered tyranny, madness, murder and rape). Anyway, yes, they are proud to be descendants of people who brought down Captain George Hawthorne - until one of the great-great-great-great grandsons of Hawthorne came to the island with a diary that probably will debunk that history.
I liked both Red Joe Nesmith and Eddie Hawthorne. Joe was one of those "silent-type" introvert guys who was very solid. Plus he didn't immediately jumped into defending the history of the mutiny, like the rest of the islanders. He was willing to listen to Eddie's part of the history. Eddie was bubbly, in a way. Eddie was so passionate about the history (though he didn't realize that the islanders would be willing to kill him for it) and he was rather cute to read 😄. So together, they made a nice couple
Even if the whole relationship came LIGHTNING FAST - like few days only. But okay, I don't mind it so much this time. I enjoyed the story as a whole.
September 23, 2019
3.75 stars rounded up
Like Lisa Henry said herself, it's pretty much a fluffy murder :p. Yes, there's crime (that leads to murder), but the relationship between Joe and Eddie happen in an easy, quick, natural attraction towards one another. I'm rounding it up because I LOVED the setting of the small island AND the dog's named Hiccup. This is a "light" Lisa Henry, IMHO. And I appreciated it ;p
Like Lisa Henry said herself, it's pretty much a fluffy murder :p. Yes, there's crime (that leads to murder), but the relationship between Joe and Eddie happen in an easy, quick, natural attraction towards one another. I'm rounding it up because I LOVED the setting of the small island AND the dog's named Hiccup. This is a "light" Lisa Henry, IMHO. And I appreciated it ;p
June 3, 2020
Dauntless island is a tight knit community, with a population only just over 100 people. They are all bound by the island's history, where 200 years ago a shipwrecked crew on the island mutinied agaisnt a supposedly corrupt captain.
As the residents of the island put a lot of stock into names they got from their ancestors. One of our main character's, Joe Nesmith, got his name from the man who lead the mutiny. This gives him a lot of influence over the island, he himself isn't as obsessed with the islands history but he understands the hold it has over the others.
Joe is a lighthouse keeper, living in a cottage a ways away from the village. He returned to the island when his father passed away to take care of his little sister. Now that she's on the mainland for university, Joe begins to realise just how lonely he is.
Eddie Hawthorne is a tourist visiting the island for research on his thesis. He's also linked to the island's past, being a descendant from the overthrown captain. He recieves a less than warm welcome from a few of the islanders, who hold a 200 year old grudge against him. Joe doesn't have this problem, and the two hit it off.
Things turn sinister when Eddie is attacked when in his tent. The reson being that his thesis is about how his ancestor wasn't the bad guy, and that it was the mutineers that were corrupt.
Joe and Eddie work together to try to find the culprit. And when an islander turns up dead, it seems like Eddie is being framed, it's up to Joe to protect his boyfriend from a murderer and the population of the island who thinks Eddie guilty.
--
If you enjoyed Dauntless, I recommend Murder at Pirate's Cove. They are both mm romances with similar small town cozy vibes, although I personally preferred Dauntless.
As the residents of the island put a lot of stock into names they got from their ancestors. One of our main character's, Joe Nesmith, got his name from the man who lead the mutiny. This gives him a lot of influence over the island, he himself isn't as obsessed with the islands history but he understands the hold it has over the others.
Joe is a lighthouse keeper, living in a cottage a ways away from the village. He returned to the island when his father passed away to take care of his little sister. Now that she's on the mainland for university, Joe begins to realise just how lonely he is.
Eddie Hawthorne is a tourist visiting the island for research on his thesis. He's also linked to the island's past, being a descendant from the overthrown captain. He recieves a less than warm welcome from a few of the islanders, who hold a 200 year old grudge against him. Joe doesn't have this problem, and the two hit it off.
Things turn sinister when Eddie is attacked when in his tent. The reson being that his thesis is about how his ancestor wasn't the bad guy, and that it was the mutineers that were corrupt.
Joe and Eddie work together to try to find the culprit. And when an islander turns up dead, it seems like Eddie is being framed, it's up to Joe to protect his boyfriend from a murderer and the population of the island who thinks Eddie guilty.
--
If you enjoyed Dauntless, I recommend Murder at Pirate's Cove. They are both mm romances with similar small town cozy vibes, although I personally preferred Dauntless.
February 23, 2020
4 stars ⭐️
Thank you Sugarplum Santa
I really enjoyed this one. It’s a slow moving story but works with the backdrop of Dauntless island. I enjoyed that the islanders were proud of their heritage and the murder mystery aspect while fluffy and light worked for me as it kept me entertained.
Good afternoons read - recommended.
Thank you Sugarplum Santa
I really enjoyed this one. It’s a slow moving story but works with the backdrop of Dauntless island. I enjoyed that the islanders were proud of their heritage and the murder mystery aspect while fluffy and light worked for me as it kept me entertained.
Good afternoons read - recommended.
January 11, 2022
I loved this whole story from start to finish. I definitely had a better sense of Joe over Eddie in the long run. But, I mostly didn't care because I LOVE Joe and Eddie made Joe happy and squishy and it was great.
The island and its history were characters in their own right, and the author did a banger job of creating an atmosphere of history, mystery and hope.
The island and its history were characters in their own right, and the author did a banger job of creating an atmosphere of history, mystery and hope.
September 23, 2019
Delightful
So simple, so enjoyable, so fine, by one of my very favorite writers. This needs a glass of wine and a comfy chair.
So simple, so enjoyable, so fine, by one of my very favorite writers. This needs a glass of wine and a comfy chair.
Read
January 18, 2026Cute but a bit too chaotic of a romance/mystery hybrid-- I think it isn't long enough to straddle both genres.
May 29, 2021
Cute Cozy Mystery!
Set on a very small island off the coast of Australia.
Wacky islanders
Lighthouse keeper
Historian
A journal that exposes a secret past
A theft
A murder
An HEA
Low steam
Off page sex
Short
I dug it.
Set on a very small island off the coast of Australia.
Wacky islanders
Lighthouse keeper
Historian
A journal that exposes a secret past
A theft
A murder
An HEA
Low steam
Off page sex
Short
I dug it.
September 21, 2019
4.25 stars
September 25, 2019
Another awesome read from an auto buy author for me.
Terrific setting and plotline. Droll (aussie) humour and satisfying ending.
Go Lisa!!
Terrific setting and plotline. Droll (aussie) humour and satisfying ending.
Go Lisa!!
November 17, 2021
Really enjoyable
I liked the characters and the plot, and its overarching message, but mostly I just especially enjoyed the second half of the story.
I liked the characters and the plot, and its overarching message, but mostly I just especially enjoyed the second half of the story.
Read
May 30, 2025I’m not rating this now, because I see that author is releasing a new version with more pages 🙏
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