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All at Sea
An enthralling, opposites-attract lesbian romance about what lies beneath. Stevie Sterling is having a day from hell. Snubbed—yet again—by her unsupportive parents, she runs out on their posh party and takes refuge on a deserted yacht. Waking the next day with the world’s worst hangover, Stevie finds herself far from shore. As if being trapped on the yacht in only her party dress isn’t bad enough, Stevie’s frantic that she’ll miss the first day of her new job as a nurse. She has so much to prove in her career—to herself and her parents. The yacht’s cute but unimpressed captain, Kaz Malone—an eco-warrior who hits the seas with Sinbad the cat—is on a There’s a nuclear-waste-dumping tanker to harass. Kaz is as single-minded as she is stubborn and she’s not about to turn around for some stowaway with a new job. Hell, no. Saving the planet comes first. But perhaps there’s more than one way to a destination?
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 27, 2020
16 people are currently reading
216 people want to read
About the author
Cheyenne Blue
96 books469 followersG’day and welcome. I’m Cheyenne Blue. I write big-hearted sapphic romance with strong women, mainly set in Australia.
My fifteenth romance, Sometimes We Fly is out April 2025. A closeted celebrity, a furious neighbour, and a whole lot of sexual tension charge this late-in-life coming-out lesbian romance set in rural Sydney.
I hope you enjoy all of my sapphic romances featuring strong women finding love.
You can find out more about me on my website cheyenneblue.com, Facebook or on Twitter @Iamcheyenneblue
My fifteenth romance, Sometimes We Fly is out April 2025. A closeted celebrity, a furious neighbour, and a whole lot of sexual tension charge this late-in-life coming-out lesbian romance set in rural Sydney.
I hope you enjoy all of my sapphic romances featuring strong women finding love.
You can find out more about me on my website cheyenneblue.com, Facebook or on Twitter @Iamcheyenneblue
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
May 5, 2020
3.25 Stars. This was a perfectly fine story but I wasn’t as crazy about it as I hoped. I think Blue’s a good author and most of the time I really click with her stories. Unfortunately, I thought this book was pretty much average. It’s a nice story but not really more than that. It did give me an entertaining night of reading which I appreciate, I just wasn’t wowed like I was hoping for.
As other reviewers have mentioned this book is almost like two different stories. One story is on the water, in a sailboat, and the other on land. And the funny part is most of the other reviewers loved the first part, where I was really not feeling it much at all. It wasn’t until the story was back on land that I got more into the book. The beginning part of the story felt very unrealistic to me and all I could think of was the word “kidnapping.” I mean I know this is fiction so a book can be out there but it still bothered me.
Another issue I had related to the beginning was what the characters were doing on the boat in the first place. They were harassing big ocean liners to stop them from dumping waste. I used to watch Whale Wars where they would try to stop the poaching of whales in the Southern ocean. I’m all for these kinds of good causes, but Sea Shepherd used big powerful boats to try to stop the whalers. They were not scooting around cutting off ocean liners in a two or three person sailboat. It sounded so damn dangerous and the fact one character basically forced the other into it, I couldn’t just relax and enjoy it. It got my anxiety going instead.
My final issue is two parts. For one I didn’t love the characters. I did grow to like Kaz more but Stevie was just sort of meh. I’m such a character driven reader that not connecting right off the bat can really mess me up. And I don’t know if it was the not caring too much about the characters or what but I didn’t really feel their connection. It felt almost like they figured “hey were both single, so why not”, much more than a real “you are my HEA”. I also felt sorry for Kaz since it seemed like every time she wanted to have sex, Stevie wanted coffee or food or anything to make Kaz wait.
Once the book got back on land and there was some conflict with Stevie’s family, I was able to get more into the book. I felt like this book needed some more angst so I was happy to at least get something going on to mix things up a bit. I did wish there was a little more conflict to drive things but the book did pick up for me.
Not one of my favorites by Blue but it was a nice story. I was entertained just not wowed like I wanted. But when parts of the story felt unrealistic, the story didn’t feel recycled instead it felt pretty fresh which is always nice. I think most romance fans would like this but this is not the book I would recommend to people new to Blue. I would suggest reading Code of Conduct or her Girl Meets Girl series Never-Tied Nora over this book.
A copy was given to me for a honest review.
As other reviewers have mentioned this book is almost like two different stories. One story is on the water, in a sailboat, and the other on land. And the funny part is most of the other reviewers loved the first part, where I was really not feeling it much at all. It wasn’t until the story was back on land that I got more into the book. The beginning part of the story felt very unrealistic to me and all I could think of was the word “kidnapping.” I mean I know this is fiction so a book can be out there but it still bothered me.
Another issue I had related to the beginning was what the characters were doing on the boat in the first place. They were harassing big ocean liners to stop them from dumping waste. I used to watch Whale Wars where they would try to stop the poaching of whales in the Southern ocean. I’m all for these kinds of good causes, but Sea Shepherd used big powerful boats to try to stop the whalers. They were not scooting around cutting off ocean liners in a two or three person sailboat. It sounded so damn dangerous and the fact one character basically forced the other into it, I couldn’t just relax and enjoy it. It got my anxiety going instead.
My final issue is two parts. For one I didn’t love the characters. I did grow to like Kaz more but Stevie was just sort of meh. I’m such a character driven reader that not connecting right off the bat can really mess me up. And I don’t know if it was the not caring too much about the characters or what but I didn’t really feel their connection. It felt almost like they figured “hey were both single, so why not”, much more than a real “you are my HEA”. I also felt sorry for Kaz since it seemed like every time she wanted to have sex, Stevie wanted coffee or food or anything to make Kaz wait.
Once the book got back on land and there was some conflict with Stevie’s family, I was able to get more into the book. I felt like this book needed some more angst so I was happy to at least get something going on to mix things up a bit. I did wish there was a little more conflict to drive things but the book did pick up for me.
Not one of my favorites by Blue but it was a nice story. I was entertained just not wowed like I wanted. But when parts of the story felt unrealistic, the story didn’t feel recycled instead it felt pretty fresh which is always nice. I think most romance fans would like this but this is not the book I would recommend to people new to Blue. I would suggest reading Code of Conduct or her Girl Meets Girl series Never-Tied Nora over this book.
A copy was given to me for a honest review.
April 12, 2020
Stowaway.
Stevie just had a milestone moment in her life and should be celebrating with her rich family on their yacht. Her moment is overshadowed, however, by her sister's poorly timed engagement. Not that it was her fault. Leave it to dumb guys to assume that someone's graduation party is a good time to propose.
She drowns her tears in an ample amount of Champaign and finds herself literally running away drunkenly and meandering down the hatch of an unassuming boat.
Kaz (real name = Karen - How do you get Kaz from Karen?) is an ocean rights activist who has sailed off to play turkey with a large vessel that has intentions to dump something unsavory. To her surprise, she discovers that it isn't just her and her inhospitable kitty on board.
This part of the book is interesting, engaging, and exciting. Obviously there is a big conflict at first. Stevie needs to get off the boat so she is not late for her new job, after all. And it is very inconvenient that Kaz won't give up her altruistic calling to drop her off at the nearest shoreline.
We get to experience these two very opposite characters come together as they work to sail the sea toward a protest that Stevie wants no part in. Along the way, they get to know one another and wonder if there could be some romantic potential.
Once they are no longer sailing and protesting, the story really slowed down for me. It became much more of a family drama, rather than an open sea romantic adventure. Stevie struggles to save the relationship with her parents. She has to support her sister's desire to also escape the same expectations that drove her away. Kaz has a journey of her own to determine whether saving ocean life or nurturing a relationship is more important to her.
I liked the first part of this book better than the rest. The pacing overall felt off. But this was a good premise overall, and I was entertained enough to keep reading.
I recommend this to people who like to read about romance, sailing, nursing, charities, protests, family disputes, and gum trees.
I received an ARC from the publisher for an honest review.
Stevie just had a milestone moment in her life and should be celebrating with her rich family on their yacht. Her moment is overshadowed, however, by her sister's poorly timed engagement. Not that it was her fault. Leave it to dumb guys to assume that someone's graduation party is a good time to propose.
She drowns her tears in an ample amount of Champaign and finds herself literally running away drunkenly and meandering down the hatch of an unassuming boat.
Kaz (real name = Karen - How do you get Kaz from Karen?) is an ocean rights activist who has sailed off to play turkey with a large vessel that has intentions to dump something unsavory. To her surprise, she discovers that it isn't just her and her inhospitable kitty on board.
This part of the book is interesting, engaging, and exciting. Obviously there is a big conflict at first. Stevie needs to get off the boat so she is not late for her new job, after all. And it is very inconvenient that Kaz won't give up her altruistic calling to drop her off at the nearest shoreline.
We get to experience these two very opposite characters come together as they work to sail the sea toward a protest that Stevie wants no part in. Along the way, they get to know one another and wonder if there could be some romantic potential.
Once they are no longer sailing and protesting, the story really slowed down for me. It became much more of a family drama, rather than an open sea romantic adventure. Stevie struggles to save the relationship with her parents. She has to support her sister's desire to also escape the same expectations that drove her away. Kaz has a journey of her own to determine whether saving ocean life or nurturing a relationship is more important to her.
I liked the first part of this book better than the rest. The pacing overall felt off. But this was a good premise overall, and I was entertained enough to keep reading.
I recommend this to people who like to read about romance, sailing, nursing, charities, protests, family disputes, and gum trees.
I received an ARC from the publisher for an honest review.
May 24, 2020
It was a nice change to have Cheyenne Blue take me to sea instead of the outback for once. Turns out she writes both with equal aplomb! I’m a fan of Cheyenne Blue and All at Sea was a pleasure to read. It’s not every day you go risk life and limb to protest a Chinese tanker ready to illegally dump nuclear waste in Australian waters.
Stevie Sterling didn’t expect to be on that journey either, but as an accidental stowaway she has little choice but to adapt to instant life at sea. The unflappable captain Kaz Malone leaves her little choice. The two have assumptions about each other that prove to be all wrong and it’s great fun to be on board with them as they figure it out.
Stevie – a trust-fund baby who struggled to get away from her overbearing family (mostly mommy dearest) to pursue a career in nursing – is the more prickly of the two whereas Kaz – part-time app designer / part-time eco warrior - is pretty laid-back. Their chemistry didn’t exactly crackle off the pages but was still enjoyable enough.
First part of the story is on board of small sailboat Delilah as we go to battle and the second part is on dry land in small town Wallanbindi, Victoria, where Kaz and Stevie will have to find mutual trust to see if they can have a future together. Drama comes in the form of the Sterling family and younger sister Ash who wants to break away from the stifling family duties as well. Cheyenne Blue always brings me the Aussie charm I have come to love so much. Her books are always a joy to read.
f/f semi explicit scenes (no blow by blow)
Themes: Australia, eco warriors, environmental protesting at sea, Sinbad the sea-faring cat, Sterling Saves, Ocean Rights, opposites attract.
4 Stars
* A free copy was provided by Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
Stevie Sterling didn’t expect to be on that journey either, but as an accidental stowaway she has little choice but to adapt to instant life at sea. The unflappable captain Kaz Malone leaves her little choice. The two have assumptions about each other that prove to be all wrong and it’s great fun to be on board with them as they figure it out.
Stevie – a trust-fund baby who struggled to get away from her overbearing family (mostly mommy dearest) to pursue a career in nursing – is the more prickly of the two whereas Kaz – part-time app designer / part-time eco warrior - is pretty laid-back. Their chemistry didn’t exactly crackle off the pages but was still enjoyable enough.
First part of the story is on board of small sailboat Delilah as we go to battle and the second part is on dry land in small town Wallanbindi, Victoria, where Kaz and Stevie will have to find mutual trust to see if they can have a future together. Drama comes in the form of the Sterling family and younger sister Ash who wants to break away from the stifling family duties as well. Cheyenne Blue always brings me the Aussie charm I have come to love so much. Her books are always a joy to read.
f/f semi explicit scenes (no blow by blow)
Themes: Australia, eco warriors, environmental protesting at sea, Sinbad the sea-faring cat, Sterling Saves, Ocean Rights, opposites attract.
4 Stars
* A free copy was provided by Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
June 19, 2020
I was gripped by the adventure of the first half of this novel but found the second half slow going. After another disappointing interaction with her parents, Stevie leaves their docked yacht and stumbles drunkenly into a darker area of the pier. She’s also hiding from her sister and climbs into a modest yacht and passes out. Kaz is more that a little irritated to find a stowaway on her boat and her irritation is aggravated when she discovers Stevie is a poor little rich from the wealthiest families in town. She is not deviating from her eco-mission and Stevie will just have to deal with that.
I loved reading about their days at sea and the struggles against one of the most powerful forces of nature, let alone taking on polluters of the ocean. The concept of one person on a yacht for days on end, in shipping lanes with no land in sight, is terrifying and thrilling. Adding another person with no sailing experience didn’t improve the feeling of fear. It was wonderfully suspenseful. I only wish that they had been on the boat longer.
The development of Kaz and Stevie’s relationship was lovely and gentle but in the last half it was too slow and lacking in chemistry. Blue usually writes wonderfully sensual intimate scenes but it felt like Kaz and Stevie were just going through the motions. While I liked the theme of Stevie and her sister’s battle with their parents about being seen for who they are, it took too long to play out then worked out far too easily.
In spite of my feelings about the second half, it is still well-written and absolutely worth it for the pace and setting of the first half.
Book received from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
I loved reading about their days at sea and the struggles against one of the most powerful forces of nature, let alone taking on polluters of the ocean. The concept of one person on a yacht for days on end, in shipping lanes with no land in sight, is terrifying and thrilling. Adding another person with no sailing experience didn’t improve the feeling of fear. It was wonderfully suspenseful. I only wish that they had been on the boat longer.
The development of Kaz and Stevie’s relationship was lovely and gentle but in the last half it was too slow and lacking in chemistry. Blue usually writes wonderfully sensual intimate scenes but it felt like Kaz and Stevie were just going through the motions. While I liked the theme of Stevie and her sister’s battle with their parents about being seen for who they are, it took too long to play out then worked out far too easily.
In spite of my feelings about the second half, it is still well-written and absolutely worth it for the pace and setting of the first half.
Book received from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
February 6, 2023
This romance features Stevie (nurse) and Kaz/Karin(environmental activist/I.T. app writer) the former from a rich family but forging her own path and the latter happy to move from one cause to the next when called, saving the planet. The author's descriptions took me aboard the Delilah and I pictured what Kaz and Stevie were experiencing at sea. A worthwhile read - the unusual beginning, family drama, angst and romance all wrapped in a storyline that will resonate with anyone who cares about love, the environment, social disparities and caring for our senior citizens - in other words, life in the here and now with a huge dash of romance. Ms. Blue earns 5 stars.
I rec'd an ARC from Ylva Publishing and this is a voluntary, un-biased review.
I rec'd an ARC from Ylva Publishing and this is a voluntary, un-biased review.
April 30, 2024
This was an ok read. I liked the beginning with the stowaway scenes and the environmental protests. Then the middle dragged, the ending picked up and more charitable causes came into play.
Both MCs were ok. Stephanie “Stevi” was a strong woman who stood up to her parents. Cara was very independent and had good sense. I would have liked more feelings and emotional development between them.
I read several other Cheyenne Blue books that I liked better than this one.
Both MCs were ok. Stephanie “Stevi” was a strong woman who stood up to her parents. Cara was very independent and had good sense. I would have liked more feelings and emotional development between them.
I read several other Cheyenne Blue books that I liked better than this one.
April 9, 2020
I love sailing. I pretty much grew up on the water in everything from small wooden boats to racing (other people's!) large yachts and cruising around the coast. When I saw this book in the upcoming releases on the Ylva site I was a bit ambivalent; on the one hand it could be amazing but then again I nearly went demented just watching the trailer for "All is Lost" (Robert Redford solo sailing) because they got so many things wrong! Then I saw this book was by Cheyenne Blue and relaxed, her research for the tennis world in Code of Conduct had been pretty immaculate so I decided to take the plunge and I am very glad I did. While this book isn't entirely set at sea there is a good bit of sailing and at times I felt like I was out there with Kaz and Stevie. Not just the technical details of the boat and sail trim but almost more importantly the feeling of pure elation and freedom that comes with being out on the water. The satisfaction when with the tiniest flick of the tiller or wheel the tell-tails stream and the bow slices cleanly through the water, the sensation of the sails filling and the whole boat surging forward on wave - it's almost spiritual and for someone heading into week four of quarantine this book was bliss.
Ahem, like I said, it's not all about sailing and genuinely the non-sailors among you will definitely love this book too! The focus is more on the developing relationship between Kaz and Stevie as they initially try to reach a tentative détente while stuck together in close quarters and then gradually realise that the other maybe isn't such an ass after all. In the background we have Stevie's struggle to distance herself from her family's money and high society name, while Kaz is unable to find lasting meaning in her life beyond her causes.
Last but most definitely not least there is Sinbad, Kaz's seafaring cat! He is awesome. You should read this book for Sinbad if nothing else.
Ahem, like I said, it's not all about sailing and genuinely the non-sailors among you will definitely love this book too! The focus is more on the developing relationship between Kaz and Stevie as they initially try to reach a tentative détente while stuck together in close quarters and then gradually realise that the other maybe isn't such an ass after all. In the background we have Stevie's struggle to distance herself from her family's money and high society name, while Kaz is unable to find lasting meaning in her life beyond her causes.
Last but most definitely not least there is Sinbad, Kaz's seafaring cat! He is awesome. You should read this book for Sinbad if nothing else.
April 14, 2020
5 stars
This unusual and interesting story worked for me and I enjoyed it without any real complain. Just like A.L. Brooks whose book Dare to Love I've read before this one, Cheyenne Blue never disappoints. Two of my favourite authors in a row and both with great books! So perfect for these weird times.
eARC by Ylva Publishing
This unusual and interesting story worked for me and I enjoyed it without any real complain. Just like A.L. Brooks whose book Dare to Love I've read before this one, Cheyenne Blue never disappoints. Two of my favourite authors in a row and both with great books! So perfect for these weird times.
eARC by Ylva Publishing
June 11, 2021
Cheyenne writes really well and totally pulls me into the story. Loved her other books and my only criticism is that she doesn't write enough. Superb.
March 30, 2020
All at Sea by Cheyenne Blue
Stephanie Sterling (Stevie) is a newly registered nurse. After a messed-up party, she wakes up lost at sea, on Karin Malone (Kaz)’s yacht, Delilah. What starts like two siblings arguing, finally ends up being one of the greatest representations of amazing ‘’Team Effort’’ and how life can surprise you when you least expect it.
The novel revolves around Stevie, who keeps trying to mend edges with her unsupportive family, the powerful Sterling of Sterling Save, and around Kaz, the solitary but driven owner of precious Delilah and Sinbad, her lovely cat. Their bickering at the beginning of the book is perfect and helps understand who they are and what they both think is more important, Stevie’s new job, or Kaz’s mission with Ocean Rights.
I had such a great moment getting to know them and their individual universe. It was a great change in my usual reading habits since I know next to nothing about how to navigate a yacht and any of its components. I have to admit I had to search a few words online, simply to add to my personal knowledge.
Once again Cheyenne Blue surprises me with an incredibly developed story and characters. I remember again reading Code of conduct a while ago and being impressed by the level of research she had put in her book, and I am not surprised to see the same level of intensity and expertise reflected in All at Sea. The characters are complete, their baggage and background history are clear and consistent with their actions, reactions and beliefs. This book was a delight and I suggest you all grab a copy; the story is totally worth it.
5/5
*I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review*
RainbowMoose's Reviews
@RainbowMReviews
Stephanie Sterling (Stevie) is a newly registered nurse. After a messed-up party, she wakes up lost at sea, on Karin Malone (Kaz)’s yacht, Delilah. What starts like two siblings arguing, finally ends up being one of the greatest representations of amazing ‘’Team Effort’’ and how life can surprise you when you least expect it.
The novel revolves around Stevie, who keeps trying to mend edges with her unsupportive family, the powerful Sterling of Sterling Save, and around Kaz, the solitary but driven owner of precious Delilah and Sinbad, her lovely cat. Their bickering at the beginning of the book is perfect and helps understand who they are and what they both think is more important, Stevie’s new job, or Kaz’s mission with Ocean Rights.
I had such a great moment getting to know them and their individual universe. It was a great change in my usual reading habits since I know next to nothing about how to navigate a yacht and any of its components. I have to admit I had to search a few words online, simply to add to my personal knowledge.
Once again Cheyenne Blue surprises me with an incredibly developed story and characters. I remember again reading Code of conduct a while ago and being impressed by the level of research she had put in her book, and I am not surprised to see the same level of intensity and expertise reflected in All at Sea. The characters are complete, their baggage and background history are clear and consistent with their actions, reactions and beliefs. This book was a delight and I suggest you all grab a copy; the story is totally worth it.
5/5
*I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review*
RainbowMoose's Reviews
@RainbowMReviews
April 14, 2021
This was an ok read... It was interesting in the beginning, when the 2 MCs were out at sea. It got kind of flat for me after the adventure when both Stevie and Kaz ‘done the deed’...... but picked up again towards the end when Stevie tried to bridge the gap with her parents.
Available in Scribd
Available in Scribd
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December 16, 2020What if you found a safe harbour when you hadn’t realised you were stuck in a storm at all?
Stevie arrives back in her home town of Wallanbindi after completing her degree in nursing, and she’s excited and proud to start her new job at the town’s aged care facility. The problem is that Stevie is Stephanie Sterling, eldest daughter of the Sterling family, the wealthiest family in the district and this doesn’t make life easy for her.
She feels a sense of misguided obligation to her parents, even when they are so indifferent to her studies, her achievements, so that when they do decide to throw a celebration party, it turns out to be a fancy do for a bunch of moneyed supporters for the family charity, rather than about Stevie’s accomplishments.
It also ends up being a party for the engagement of Stevie’s sister, Ash, and that’s the last straw.
Stevie storms off, well…sways off as she’s decidedly drunk, and ends up hiding on board a moored yacht, Delilah. The next day, she’s out to sea with a rather pissed off captain, Kaz, the owner of Delilah, who threatens to throw her overboard, (super start to any relationship) but ends up convincing Stevie to earn her passage to the nearest port by participating in a campaign to stop a ship dumping nuclear waste.
Kaz is an environmentalist, a warrior protector of the seas and land, and is committed to her causes. So much so that she is incapable of making accommodations for any potential relationship in her life. The inconvenient appearance of Stevie Sterling knocks out a few bricks in her wall.
I was relieved to find that Kaz had an income (app design and a former CEO of her own company). It always worries me that protestors don’t have a source of income because how could they continue their important work if they’re struggling to make ends meet. Kaz’s income and simple life (because she uses her money to fund her eco-warrior work) balances Stevie’s unwitting wealth and her unwillingness to touch her trust fund.
Cheyenne thinks of the little things. Like the location of the pub in the township. It’s important to know where it is, because a pub in any small town is a hub for the people who live there. So, we get to find out. Details like this meant that I could visualise Wallanbindi. Yes, I had an advantage because I’ve driven through places just like that. But driven through. Never stopped, and that’s my loss, because in this book, the town breathes with life.
One of the aspects of Cheyenne’s novels is that the land, the sea, the setting, is real. She makes the sea an actual character, because by making it take on a life, Kaz and Stevie grow and develop through their interactions with it. I think I’ve mentioned this aspect of Cheyenne’s writing before. Let me check. Yep, I have. In my review of the ‘Girl Meets Girl’ series.
The research that went into the understanding of the ocean, of sailing, of the literal ebbs and flows and peaks and troughs and moments of such stillness that a heartbeat fills the sky, had such depth that I’m convinced she spent a year on a yacht. I’ll have to ask.
There’s a simplicity to Cheyenne’s writing. Hey! I saw you spot that word and narrow your eyes, but simplicity does not mean simple. Oh no. Simplicity means that it flows. The sentences support the previous one, the next one, like a mate who leans a shoulder in and says, “I got you.” It’s wonderful, because it makes for a lovely read.
The relationship makes sense. There are sub-plots and mini-plots and plots that only happen for half the novel but all of them mould Kaz and Stevie’s relationship in a way that feels right.
I loved it.
Also, Stevie and Kaz? Such cool names.
Stevie arrives back in her home town of Wallanbindi after completing her degree in nursing, and she’s excited and proud to start her new job at the town’s aged care facility. The problem is that Stevie is Stephanie Sterling, eldest daughter of the Sterling family, the wealthiest family in the district and this doesn’t make life easy for her.
She feels a sense of misguided obligation to her parents, even when they are so indifferent to her studies, her achievements, so that when they do decide to throw a celebration party, it turns out to be a fancy do for a bunch of moneyed supporters for the family charity, rather than about Stevie’s accomplishments.
It also ends up being a party for the engagement of Stevie’s sister, Ash, and that’s the last straw.
Stevie storms off, well…sways off as she’s decidedly drunk, and ends up hiding on board a moored yacht, Delilah. The next day, she’s out to sea with a rather pissed off captain, Kaz, the owner of Delilah, who threatens to throw her overboard, (super start to any relationship) but ends up convincing Stevie to earn her passage to the nearest port by participating in a campaign to stop a ship dumping nuclear waste.
Kaz is an environmentalist, a warrior protector of the seas and land, and is committed to her causes. So much so that she is incapable of making accommodations for any potential relationship in her life. The inconvenient appearance of Stevie Sterling knocks out a few bricks in her wall.
I was relieved to find that Kaz had an income (app design and a former CEO of her own company). It always worries me that protestors don’t have a source of income because how could they continue their important work if they’re struggling to make ends meet. Kaz’s income and simple life (because she uses her money to fund her eco-warrior work) balances Stevie’s unwitting wealth and her unwillingness to touch her trust fund.
Cheyenne thinks of the little things. Like the location of the pub in the township. It’s important to know where it is, because a pub in any small town is a hub for the people who live there. So, we get to find out. Details like this meant that I could visualise Wallanbindi. Yes, I had an advantage because I’ve driven through places just like that. But driven through. Never stopped, and that’s my loss, because in this book, the town breathes with life.
One of the aspects of Cheyenne’s novels is that the land, the sea, the setting, is real. She makes the sea an actual character, because by making it take on a life, Kaz and Stevie grow and develop through their interactions with it. I think I’ve mentioned this aspect of Cheyenne’s writing before. Let me check. Yep, I have. In my review of the ‘Girl Meets Girl’ series.
The research that went into the understanding of the ocean, of sailing, of the literal ebbs and flows and peaks and troughs and moments of such stillness that a heartbeat fills the sky, had such depth that I’m convinced she spent a year on a yacht. I’ll have to ask.
There’s a simplicity to Cheyenne’s writing. Hey! I saw you spot that word and narrow your eyes, but simplicity does not mean simple. Oh no. Simplicity means that it flows. The sentences support the previous one, the next one, like a mate who leans a shoulder in and says, “I got you.” It’s wonderful, because it makes for a lovely read.
The relationship makes sense. There are sub-plots and mini-plots and plots that only happen for half the novel but all of them mould Kaz and Stevie’s relationship in a way that feels right.
I loved it.
Also, Stevie and Kaz? Such cool names.
April 14, 2020
Adventures with Opposites
Stevie’s not having a great night. Her snooty, pretentious parents have supposedly thrown a party to congratulate her on her nursing degree, only to find out it a bunch of people she doesn’t know or care about, her accomplishment has been totally ignored and when her mum overhears her sister being proposed to, goes and makes that announcement with pride. Stevie loves her sister Ash more than anything and is really happy for her but can’t take anymore so she runs away. Ash follows so Stevie hides on a nearby yacht. Having had way too much to drink, she decides to sleep it off and leave the next morning…. Yeah, that’s not going to happen…. Kaz is an eco-warrior and along with her cat Sinbad, set sail early in the morning to stop a nuclear waste dumping tanker in the Australian waters. When the two meet, neither of the women is happy but they will have to make the best of it.
This was a really good story. There are so many wonderful and beautiful nature scenes, both on land and at sea!! I loved the characters and the adventure the two are embarked on. I liked watching them grow from not happy with the other to acceptance, intrigue and then desire. They both have strengths and weaknesses and they are very supportive of each other, balancing the other. It wasn’t hard to care for Kaz and Stevie and to sympathize with her about her elitist and unsupportive parents. She has so much hope and resilience… in spite of how they treat her, she really, really wants a relationship with them and to have a loving, warm and happy family but as long as she has Ash and Kaz she is happy and content… Sigh 😀
July 4, 2020
What an interesting concept. Being trapped on a boat with another woman for a week and having no one but the two of you was quite a genius, romantic storyline.
I especially liked Stevie and how she saw the world. The emotionally raw moments, especially with her family, made her seems so real like I could feel her sorrow and vulnerability.
As someone who enjoys sailing, I have to say that this book felt so relaxing to read. Cheyenne Blue used accurate descriptions, making me feel like I was on the boat, and I had dreams of being lulled to sleep by the ocean after finishing it.
I am sincerely hoping that Alana and her lovely daughter will be the next story from Cheyenne Blue. I can almost see the story forming in my brain. She was my favourite character (aside from Stevie), and I can see her getting into some romantic trouble. #swoon
If I have to choose a favourite section of the book, I’d say the moments in the end with Stevie and her mum and the epilogue. You all know I love a good epilogue, and this one was great. My one and only would be that I felt the story slowed substantially in a few areas where I would of like things to have ramped up.
Thoroughly enjoyed ‘All At Sea’ and I would recommend enjoying it with a wine or beer on a hot summer night.
I especially liked Stevie and how she saw the world. The emotionally raw moments, especially with her family, made her seems so real like I could feel her sorrow and vulnerability.
As someone who enjoys sailing, I have to say that this book felt so relaxing to read. Cheyenne Blue used accurate descriptions, making me feel like I was on the boat, and I had dreams of being lulled to sleep by the ocean after finishing it.
I am sincerely hoping that Alana and her lovely daughter will be the next story from Cheyenne Blue. I can almost see the story forming in my brain. She was my favourite character (aside from Stevie), and I can see her getting into some romantic trouble. #swoon
If I have to choose a favourite section of the book, I’d say the moments in the end with Stevie and her mum and the epilogue. You all know I love a good epilogue, and this one was great. My one and only would be that I felt the story slowed substantially in a few areas where I would of like things to have ramped up.
Thoroughly enjoyed ‘All At Sea’ and I would recommend enjoying it with a wine or beer on a hot summer night.
December 9, 2021
3.25 stars
I enjoyed this audiobook, though I'll admit that it took me a bit to warm up to Stevie. When she is dismissed by her wealthy parents yet again on a night that was supposed to be about celebrating her, she imbibes way too much and flees their luxury yacht. She needs some time to lick her wounds so when her sister goes looking for her, she takes a turn in the dark and takes refuge on a smaller empty yacht, hidden from sight. The next morning she is startled awake when she feels movement and realizes the boat is out to sea. She is starting a new job in the coming week so needs to get back to shore, but captain and environmental warrior Kaz is on a very important mission and can't get her back until that is complete.
While this part of the book is interesting, I started to get annoyed with Stevie's constant whining about needing to be taken back. I mean, HELLO - Kaz didn't ask her to trespass, then sleep off a bender in her boat, so why should she rearrange her plans to accommodate Stevie?
Regardless, once that settled down and I learned more about her, Stevie is actually a great character. So is Kaz, though quite single minded about the cause that she very strongly believes in. I appreciated that aspect of the book - the focus being on environmental issues out at sea.
Once the adventure ends, though, the book slows way down, and while I felt for Stevie regarding her very relatable family issues, the focus is primarily on that and her budding relationship with Kaz. For a while I wasn't sure if Kaz was in it for the right reasons and perhaps Blue intended it to be that way. But it's a romance and everything gets wrapped up quite nicely, even if it's a bit far fetched.
This was a new narrator for me, and I felt she did well telling the story, though there wasn't a lot of variety in the characters' voices. I have enjoyed several of Blue's books and look forward to more in the future!
I enjoyed this audiobook, though I'll admit that it took me a bit to warm up to Stevie. When she is dismissed by her wealthy parents yet again on a night that was supposed to be about celebrating her, she imbibes way too much and flees their luxury yacht. She needs some time to lick her wounds so when her sister goes looking for her, she takes a turn in the dark and takes refuge on a smaller empty yacht, hidden from sight. The next morning she is startled awake when she feels movement and realizes the boat is out to sea. She is starting a new job in the coming week so needs to get back to shore, but captain and environmental warrior Kaz is on a very important mission and can't get her back until that is complete.
While this part of the book is interesting, I started to get annoyed with Stevie's constant whining about needing to be taken back. I mean, HELLO - Kaz didn't ask her to trespass, then sleep off a bender in her boat, so why should she rearrange her plans to accommodate Stevie?
Regardless, once that settled down and I learned more about her, Stevie is actually a great character. So is Kaz, though quite single minded about the cause that she very strongly believes in. I appreciated that aspect of the book - the focus being on environmental issues out at sea.
Once the adventure ends, though, the book slows way down, and while I felt for Stevie regarding her very relatable family issues, the focus is primarily on that and her budding relationship with Kaz. For a while I wasn't sure if Kaz was in it for the right reasons and perhaps Blue intended it to be that way. But it's a romance and everything gets wrapped up quite nicely, even if it's a bit far fetched.
This was a new narrator for me, and I felt she did well telling the story, though there wasn't a lot of variety in the characters' voices. I have enjoyed several of Blue's books and look forward to more in the future!
April 23, 2020
Stephanie Sterling aka Stevie is a newly minted Register Nurse who has moved back to her hometown to work. She is also trying to repair the relationship between herself and her wealthy, overbearing, opinionated parents.
Karin Malone, aka Kaz, is a self employed techie whose first love is saving our environment. She sails her boat Delilah fiercely into ocean protests on a regular basis.
Due to a family squabble Stevie stows away in Delilah to sleep off her overindulgence. Next morning she finds herself out to sea with a captain who has no intention of turning around and missing the protest.
I am a big fan of all of Cheyenne Blue’s books however I am somewhat disappointed in All at Sea. I sailed in my carefree youth and was very excited when I heard about this book coming out. Lesbians on the high seas oh my. The premise was excellent however the build up to an attraction between the MC’s was just not there. It felt as if it relied on the assumption they would be attracted to each other.
As well I found the emotional dithering of Stevie’s emotions concerning her family to last longer than it should. Just decide kept running in my mind.
I did like Katz’s character and envied her lifestyle just a bit. She was a good match for Stevie’s strong independence.
All in all it was a nice read but not a stand out read as in Ms Blue’s previous novels.
3⭐️
Karin Malone, aka Kaz, is a self employed techie whose first love is saving our environment. She sails her boat Delilah fiercely into ocean protests on a regular basis.
Due to a family squabble Stevie stows away in Delilah to sleep off her overindulgence. Next morning she finds herself out to sea with a captain who has no intention of turning around and missing the protest.
I am a big fan of all of Cheyenne Blue’s books however I am somewhat disappointed in All at Sea. I sailed in my carefree youth and was very excited when I heard about this book coming out. Lesbians on the high seas oh my. The premise was excellent however the build up to an attraction between the MC’s was just not there. It felt as if it relied on the assumption they would be attracted to each other.
As well I found the emotional dithering of Stevie’s emotions concerning her family to last longer than it should. Just decide kept running in my mind.
I did like Katz’s character and envied her lifestyle just a bit. She was a good match for Stevie’s strong independence.
All in all it was a nice read but not a stand out read as in Ms Blue’s previous novels.
3⭐️
April 11, 2020
I felt like I just read 2 books. One REALLY good one....the first 1/3 of the book....and one slow, repetitive and predictable one.....the remaining 2/3's.
Seriously, the first 1/3 was soooo good. I was totally interested in the dilemma, the budding romance and especially the sailing.
Kaz is a very experienced sailor and makes you feel that she is in complete control of her yacht. On the other hand, Stevie knows nothing about sailing and does not want to be on the yacht. But she slowly learns to love the sea and sailing as Kaz teaches her.
I felt that any novice sailor reading this story was experiencing everything through Stevie's eyes. Every wind blowing across the bow, flapping sail, stillness of the water after a whale would dive. And the extreme fear when the ocean changed to raging waves that tossed the yacht up and slammed it down into the valley between 2 waves. All very descriptive, very interesting and sometimes very scary.
The growing relationship on the yacht was just perfect. They learned a lot about each other and respected each other's goals in life.
Ok....that's the first 1/3.....now the story changes to the conflict between Stevie and her parents. They're rich and self centered and assume both their daughters should find a nice man, get married and work for the family business. Of course neither daughter wants to. Stevie wants to be a nurse and she's a lesbian. And of course her parents don't approve. And so we spend the remainder of the story going over and over that issue. So we went from really exciting sailing adventure to family drama.
The ending was very predictable and I was happy it was over.
I have read many of Cheyenne Blues books and have enjoyed them very much. They always teach me something interesting about Australia such as the wild life or the landscape. Always very interesting. And the love stories are sweet.
Seriously, the first 1/3 was soooo good. I was totally interested in the dilemma, the budding romance and especially the sailing.
Kaz is a very experienced sailor and makes you feel that she is in complete control of her yacht. On the other hand, Stevie knows nothing about sailing and does not want to be on the yacht. But she slowly learns to love the sea and sailing as Kaz teaches her.
I felt that any novice sailor reading this story was experiencing everything through Stevie's eyes. Every wind blowing across the bow, flapping sail, stillness of the water after a whale would dive. And the extreme fear when the ocean changed to raging waves that tossed the yacht up and slammed it down into the valley between 2 waves. All very descriptive, very interesting and sometimes very scary.
The growing relationship on the yacht was just perfect. They learned a lot about each other and respected each other's goals in life.
Ok....that's the first 1/3.....now the story changes to the conflict between Stevie and her parents. They're rich and self centered and assume both their daughters should find a nice man, get married and work for the family business. Of course neither daughter wants to. Stevie wants to be a nurse and she's a lesbian. And of course her parents don't approve. And so we spend the remainder of the story going over and over that issue. So we went from really exciting sailing adventure to family drama.
The ending was very predictable and I was happy it was over.
I have read many of Cheyenne Blues books and have enjoyed them very much. They always teach me something interesting about Australia such as the wild life or the landscape. Always very interesting. And the love stories are sweet.
May 23, 2020
Cheyenne Blue is one of my favorite authors and has been ever since I read one of the books in the Girl Meets Girl Series. Something about her writing, especially her romances, appeals to me. The characters, the settings, the stories, and the sweet and sensual romances just work for me. That’s why I jumped at the chance to read her latest novel, All at Sea, and I’m glad to say I was not disappointed.
This tale is somewhat different from her past novels, since most of the first half of the story takes place on a yacht at sea. Stevie accidentally becomes a stowaway on board The Delilah as her owner and captain Kaz sets out to join a protest of nuclear waste dumping at sea. The second half is back on land where real life intrudes on the budding friendship/romance of these two characters. It is almost like having two stories in one, and both work well together. The characters are very well developed and seem quite real, and have an obvious connection even though they are very different people from very different backgrounds. The descriptions of the settings are absolutely stunning, especially the ocean setting. The conflict is believable and the romance is, as always, sensual and lovely.
As you can tell, I really enjoyed this novel, and recommend it to all romance lovers.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections: http://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
This tale is somewhat different from her past novels, since most of the first half of the story takes place on a yacht at sea. Stevie accidentally becomes a stowaway on board The Delilah as her owner and captain Kaz sets out to join a protest of nuclear waste dumping at sea. The second half is back on land where real life intrudes on the budding friendship/romance of these two characters. It is almost like having two stories in one, and both work well together. The characters are very well developed and seem quite real, and have an obvious connection even though they are very different people from very different backgrounds. The descriptions of the settings are absolutely stunning, especially the ocean setting. The conflict is believable and the romance is, as always, sensual and lovely.
As you can tell, I really enjoyed this novel, and recommend it to all romance lovers.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections: http://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
April 9, 2020
This is a pretty great story about people who really aren't opposites, but have differing ideas about how to do the best good. Stephanie (Stevie) Sterling is a member of a rich family but chooses to be a Registered Nurse instead of following the plan of her overbearing mother. Karin (Kaz) Malone is an ex- software company CEO who dedicates most of her time as an eco warrior on board her old yacht. They meet under less than ideal circumstances, but eventually learn they are a pretty unstoppable pair.
I wasn't sure how this one would turn out, but of the all the Cheyenne Blue books I have read, this one had the best characters and overall plot. Everything about this book was just about perfect. I enjoyed that Stevie was the well grounded one in the pair of leads, whereas Kaz was the one who had to learn. Kaz has her heart in the right place, but she is is too dedicated to her cause to truly realize how much she is isolating herself. I guess she needed for Stevie to take a drunken nap on her ship. Stevie isn't without her problems, either, and I liked her arc with her parents, mostly because it shows how much it can hurt a child if a parent simply ignores you all together. Stevie understands that her relationship with her parents- her mother in particular - is toxic and tries her hardest to stay away from them. She can't help but try, though, because they're family. It is heartbreaking to watch Stevie (and her sister) have to go through that with their parents.
Stevie and Kaz are backed up by a solid supporting cast, including Stevie's parents. Stevie's sister and Kaz's friend are both particularly strong. I loved both the romantic arc and the other side arcs. They did such a good job to help develop the characters and give them things to do beyond their relationship. There's so much to enjoy about this book, but my only complaint is that Kaz effectively kidnaps Stevie in her rush to get to the tanker. It's a bit of a weird way to start a relationship, but luckily it's made clear that Kaz's pigheadedness sometimes overrides her common sense. It still bothered me for most of the duration of the beginning of the book.
This is a perfect read to dig into while in isolation. Or anytime!
I received this ARC from Ylva in exchange for my honest opinion.
I wasn't sure how this one would turn out, but of the all the Cheyenne Blue books I have read, this one had the best characters and overall plot. Everything about this book was just about perfect. I enjoyed that Stevie was the well grounded one in the pair of leads, whereas Kaz was the one who had to learn. Kaz has her heart in the right place, but she is is too dedicated to her cause to truly realize how much she is isolating herself. I guess she needed for Stevie to take a drunken nap on her ship. Stevie isn't without her problems, either, and I liked her arc with her parents, mostly because it shows how much it can hurt a child if a parent simply ignores you all together. Stevie understands that her relationship with her parents- her mother in particular - is toxic and tries her hardest to stay away from them. She can't help but try, though, because they're family. It is heartbreaking to watch Stevie (and her sister) have to go through that with their parents.
Stevie and Kaz are backed up by a solid supporting cast, including Stevie's parents. Stevie's sister and Kaz's friend are both particularly strong. I loved both the romantic arc and the other side arcs. They did such a good job to help develop the characters and give them things to do beyond their relationship. There's so much to enjoy about this book, but my only complaint is that Kaz effectively kidnaps Stevie in her rush to get to the tanker. It's a bit of a weird way to start a relationship, but luckily it's made clear that Kaz's pigheadedness sometimes overrides her common sense. It still bothered me for most of the duration of the beginning of the book.
This is a perfect read to dig into while in isolation. Or anytime!
I received this ARC from Ylva in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 7, 2020
A refreshing departure from typical lesfic tropes
I went into this story cold without reading the synopsis and that may have added to my enjoyment having no idea what to expect. It's a captivating story and I loved the creative way Kaz and Stevie meet and get to know each other; it works very well. Both characters are easy to root for and care about. Less likable are Stevie's parents who are indifferent to anything and everything about her that doesn't meet their expectations; her mother in particular is a special kind of awful parent. Other secondary characters are more enjoyable to read; the ocean is a surprising character in its own right with the scenes taking place on the water showing its complexity, from being a source of potential adventure to a fear inducing nightmare environment. Australian wildlife adds flavor to the story as well as it seems to do in all of Cheyenne Blue's books in all the best ways.
There is a bit of humor in the story but it's primarily drama - including some intense and harrowing moments in the first part - with romance in second place in terms of genre classification. There is some homophobia and clashing of social/economic classes but the heart of the book is Kaz and Stevie's relationship trajectory as it meanders from strangers to forced allies and beyond. I didn't laugh much while reading this story but I was often glued to my chair reading for long periods of time to see how these characters would evolve individually and together in their respective relationships. I had one lingering question at the end but it was in relation to a somewhat minor plot point.
If you're in the mood for something different and away from the typical tropes in lesfic then this is worth reading. I recommend it and the author's other works for an entertaining voyage to another place (and continent for those who do not live in Australia) in the shoes of some unique characters.
I received an advance reading copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I went into this story cold without reading the synopsis and that may have added to my enjoyment having no idea what to expect. It's a captivating story and I loved the creative way Kaz and Stevie meet and get to know each other; it works very well. Both characters are easy to root for and care about. Less likable are Stevie's parents who are indifferent to anything and everything about her that doesn't meet their expectations; her mother in particular is a special kind of awful parent. Other secondary characters are more enjoyable to read; the ocean is a surprising character in its own right with the scenes taking place on the water showing its complexity, from being a source of potential adventure to a fear inducing nightmare environment. Australian wildlife adds flavor to the story as well as it seems to do in all of Cheyenne Blue's books in all the best ways.
There is a bit of humor in the story but it's primarily drama - including some intense and harrowing moments in the first part - with romance in second place in terms of genre classification. There is some homophobia and clashing of social/economic classes but the heart of the book is Kaz and Stevie's relationship trajectory as it meanders from strangers to forced allies and beyond. I didn't laugh much while reading this story but I was often glued to my chair reading for long periods of time to see how these characters would evolve individually and together in their respective relationships. I had one lingering question at the end but it was in relation to a somewhat minor plot point.
If you're in the mood for something different and away from the typical tropes in lesfic then this is worth reading. I recommend it and the author's other works for an entertaining voyage to another place (and continent for those who do not live in Australia) in the shoes of some unique characters.
I received an advance reading copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2020
*ARC from Ylva for Review*
Getting drunk and hiding on a sailing ship isn't the wisest action - normally. But in Stevie's case it turns out to be life changing.
In the beginning we learn about Stevie's problems with her parents. And then there is the hassle with Kaz, the owner of Delilah, said sailing ship. Kaz has a protest to be and can't be bothered to return her unexpected passenger to shore. The back and forth about that is understandable but a little annoying. In the end Stevie gives in - what can she do anyway - and even comes to love sailing.
Halfway through the book they are back from that trip and now they have to face the "real world". That is Stevie's problems with her parents. And Kaz's rather unyielding view about "doing something to better the world".
The end is in my opinion a little on the rose tinted side, but that doesn't kill the story.
If you are willing to take a days long turn on a small sailing boat through rough weather and afterwards go through some family problems - or you just want some Aussie les fic - you should read this book.
Getting drunk and hiding on a sailing ship isn't the wisest action - normally. But in Stevie's case it turns out to be life changing.
In the beginning we learn about Stevie's problems with her parents. And then there is the hassle with Kaz, the owner of Delilah, said sailing ship. Kaz has a protest to be and can't be bothered to return her unexpected passenger to shore. The back and forth about that is understandable but a little annoying. In the end Stevie gives in - what can she do anyway - and even comes to love sailing.
Halfway through the book they are back from that trip and now they have to face the "real world". That is Stevie's problems with her parents. And Kaz's rather unyielding view about "doing something to better the world".
The end is in my opinion a little on the rose tinted side, but that doesn't kill the story.
If you are willing to take a days long turn on a small sailing boat through rough weather and afterwards go through some family problems - or you just want some Aussie les fic - you should read this book.
April 12, 2020
Cheyenne Blue has become one of my must-read authors after reading the stellar Code of Conduct and A Heart This Big, so I was eagerly anticipating All at Sea. Admittedly, I know nothing about sailing, but leave it to Cheyenne Blue to do the research necessary to make me understand the allure as well as the mechanics. Stevie and Kaz had so much reluctant chemistry and although we don't know much about Kaz's background, Stevie's family story was fascinating.
As an aside, as an American reader, I appreciate that a story written by an Australian author, set in Australia, FEELS/sounds/reads like an Australian story. Thank you Cheyenne Blue for continuing to write stories I can't wait to read.
As an aside, as an American reader, I appreciate that a story written by an Australian author, set in Australia, FEELS/sounds/reads like an Australian story. Thank you Cheyenne Blue for continuing to write stories I can't wait to read.
July 19, 2022
One of the things that I most enjoy when reading or in this case listening to a book by Cheyenne Blue is her ability to set the scene and make it feel like reality. I know nothing about sailing – but the sailing aspect of the story didn’t go over my head, and it wasn’t ignored or dumbed down. It just wasn’t over-explained, it was built into the narrative perfectly.
Stevie has never lived up to her parent’s expectations but longs for them to be proud of the person she is choosing to become. After completing her nursing degree, and landing her dream job, nothing changes. After too much champaign and another let down from her Mum and Dad, Stevie ends up falling asleep and becoming an accidental stowaway.
Kaz is an activist on her way to a protest with no intentions of turning around. Nothing is more important than standing strong for our planet. Her cat and her boat are all she needs, and she will not let the small matter of a poor little rich girl set her off course. With little choice but to work together, Stevie and Kaz begin to build a rapport, and both women are left questioning what is most important in life.
As a narrator, Shiloh Grey did a superb job of bringing Blue’s characters to life, delivering a beautiful love story set in the Australia Oceans and small country towns.
Stevie has never lived up to her parent’s expectations but longs for them to be proud of the person she is choosing to become. After completing her nursing degree, and landing her dream job, nothing changes. After too much champaign and another let down from her Mum and Dad, Stevie ends up falling asleep and becoming an accidental stowaway.
Kaz is an activist on her way to a protest with no intentions of turning around. Nothing is more important than standing strong for our planet. Her cat and her boat are all she needs, and she will not let the small matter of a poor little rich girl set her off course. With little choice but to work together, Stevie and Kaz begin to build a rapport, and both women are left questioning what is most important in life.
As a narrator, Shiloh Grey did a superb job of bringing Blue’s characters to life, delivering a beautiful love story set in the Australia Oceans and small country towns.
September 5, 2020
overall, it felt maybe a little long, but i did like it and definitely appreciated that they talked any arguments through like adults
Rep: lesbian mcs
CWs: lesbophobia from parents
Rep: lesbian mcs
CWs: lesbophobia from parents
April 19, 2020
3.5 stars
Wow the first half of this book was amazing. With the confined space and just two characters it could be a great play. Then the second half, as other reviewers have noted, was less exciting. In fact I kept putting the book down and forgetting to finish it.
Wow the first half of this book was amazing. With the confined space and just two characters it could be a great play. Then the second half, as other reviewers have noted, was less exciting. In fact I kept putting the book down and forgetting to finish it.
April 11, 2020
I was definitely intrigued by the plot summary and the first half of the book didn’t disappoint. I love the ocean setting and being on a boat with two people in close quarters was a great way to see Kaz and Stevie’s interactions and chemistry develop.
The second half of the book is where I started feeling like it focused too much on Stevie’s family issues and you started feeling like you were going down the rabbit hole. While I agree that those issues are important and she was genuinely trying to make an effort, I got too frustrated with Stevie’s reaction and actions as it felt very repetitive. I won’t go into details, but I felt the ending was forced and a bit too unbelievable, leaving it more open ended would have suited it better.
ARC provided by Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
The second half of the book is where I started feeling like it focused too much on Stevie’s family issues and you started feeling like you were going down the rabbit hole. While I agree that those issues are important and she was genuinely trying to make an effort, I got too frustrated with Stevie’s reaction and actions as it felt very repetitive. I won’t go into details, but I felt the ending was forced and a bit too unbelievable, leaving it more open ended would have suited it better.
ARC provided by Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
April 8, 2020
This novel starts with a bang. I knew it was coming because I read the blurb, but I didn’t expect it to be so devastating for Stevie. I enjoyed the build up to the meeting between Stevie and Kaz and the slow acceptance of one another. It was definitely entertaining picturing them negotiate their relationship on board the Delilah on that first trip. The ocean scenes were really well done – I felt like I was on the yacht, with the whales and the lonely expanse of the sea. Through Stevie’s reactions, I could feel the thrill of darting near the tankers.
The romance near the end got a little complicated. There were some misunderstandings and some fears that got in the way, but nothing is uncomplicated, right? I never warmed up to the parents, but I liked the other secondary characters quite a bit. However, the concluding scenes were great. I was happy with Stevie’s decision and the way the story turned out.
I received an ARC from Ylva for an honest review.
The romance near the end got a little complicated. There were some misunderstandings and some fears that got in the way, but nothing is uncomplicated, right? I never warmed up to the parents, but I liked the other secondary characters quite a bit. However, the concluding scenes were great. I was happy with Stevie’s decision and the way the story turned out.
I received an ARC from Ylva for an honest review.
April 17, 2020
This was an ARC from Ylva for an honest review. A nice read with good character development and story line. I had a harder time believing the parental relationship could be changed in a couple of months from how it always had been to automatically fixed. Other than that I enjoyed it. Marie Pearce
April 4, 2020
Another excellent book by Cheyenne Blue. Her writing style tends to draw you into the world of the characters and doesn’t let you go until the end of the book. The way the main characters meet is unique, and the way their love story unfolds is so natural and steady that you keep reading without realizing you’ve reached the end.
December 19, 2022
This has been a very sweet and enjoyable story, which I really liked. The main protagonists are Stevie, a woman in conflict with her family for various reasons, and Kaz, an apparently carefree woman of material goods and an environmental activist. Stevie does not accept being part of a social elite to which her parents push her, having chosen a professional career that could fill her personally rather than a position inherited by the status of her family. Furthermore, her homosexuality has never been accepted by her parents, especially her mother, who still thinks it is a phase. And she, after finishing her studies as a nurse, returns to her hometown to take up a position in a nursing home for the elderly.
In the party that her parents supposedly have made to celebrate this fact, something happens that will lead her to hide in Kaz's boat. And Kaz plans to go on a mission to stop dumping waste into the sea. And when Stevie wakes up they are in the middle of the ocean. And thank God they seemed to be quite compatible, having to share a space as small as a sailing ship, although at first it seemed that it could not be.
The first part of the story consists of this journey of the two women on the mission they are going to and really getting to know each other even though it was unexpectedly and unintentionally neither of them, has been quite entertaining. Sinbad also has a part in this entertainment.
Once they finish this mission at sea, the story moves to land and it does not seem that they will have a chance, but the connection they created during the sea journey seems to have endured and they decide to try. And in order to have a future, they must learn to respect each other's decisions and lean on each other.
And the truth is that this second path has been as interesting as the first, the story does not falter at all.
So this has been a story in two parts, one at sea and the other on land, that as a whole it has been a very captivating romance with feeling and a lot of love.
YLVA sent me an ARC for my honest review
In the party that her parents supposedly have made to celebrate this fact, something happens that will lead her to hide in Kaz's boat. And Kaz plans to go on a mission to stop dumping waste into the sea. And when Stevie wakes up they are in the middle of the ocean. And thank God they seemed to be quite compatible, having to share a space as small as a sailing ship, although at first it seemed that it could not be.
The first part of the story consists of this journey of the two women on the mission they are going to and really getting to know each other even though it was unexpectedly and unintentionally neither of them, has been quite entertaining. Sinbad also has a part in this entertainment.
Once they finish this mission at sea, the story moves to land and it does not seem that they will have a chance, but the connection they created during the sea journey seems to have endured and they decide to try. And in order to have a future, they must learn to respect each other's decisions and lean on each other.
And the truth is that this second path has been as interesting as the first, the story does not falter at all.
So this has been a story in two parts, one at sea and the other on land, that as a whole it has been a very captivating romance with feeling and a lot of love.
YLVA sent me an ARC for my honest review
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