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Pirate's Parole
He isn’t speaking to them, Thomas realised, even through the haze of fear. They don’t even expect him to speak.
But he spoke to me.
Lieutenant Charles Thomas is a rising star in the Royal Navy, having just been made third Lieutenant under Captain Wickerham on the HMS Courage. However, when a band of desperate pirates attempt to take over the ship, things go rapidly awry.
Thomas finds himself stranded and alone on an island in the middle of the ocean, and embarks on a mission to rescue the rest of his surviving men.
His only companion is a peculiar, voiceless young pirate, who may be about to change Thomas’ life in a way he could never have imagined - provided they can both get off the island alive.
This historical LGBT novel is the debut of author Andy Neville.
But he spoke to me.
Lieutenant Charles Thomas is a rising star in the Royal Navy, having just been made third Lieutenant under Captain Wickerham on the HMS Courage. However, when a band of desperate pirates attempt to take over the ship, things go rapidly awry.
Thomas finds himself stranded and alone on an island in the middle of the ocean, and embarks on a mission to rescue the rest of his surviving men.
His only companion is a peculiar, voiceless young pirate, who may be about to change Thomas’ life in a way he could never have imagined - provided they can both get off the island alive.
This historical LGBT novel is the debut of author Andy Neville.
325 pages, Paperback
Published July 22, 2021
55 people want to read
About the author
Andy Neville
1 book7 followersAndy Neville was born in England and travelled around the world for a while as a child before finally settling in Melbourne, Australia where she lives with her Golden Retreiver, Finn. Her ultimate dream is a property in the country where she can write all day and adopt multiple dogs. An avid reader and writer from a young age, Pirate’s Parole became her debut published novel in 2021. Her next project is Laneways, a series of stand-alone but connected modern LGBT Romance novels set in Melbourne.
For updates on future books follow her on twitter or visit andynevilleauthor.com.
For updates on future books follow her on twitter or visit andynevilleauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
February 8, 2022
A heart stopping adventure from start to finish. I found myself on the edge of my seat through the majority of the story with momentary reprieve to develop each character to the point that I cared about all of them. Historical fiction is not usually my preferred genre, but I can't express enough how much I enjoyed myself and how it became nearly impossible to put down at roughly the halfway mark.
Pacing, characters, and believable story beats are all high points. Do yourself a favor and read this story.
Pacing, characters, and believable story beats are all high points. Do yourself a favor and read this story.
September 13, 2021
I enjoyed this enormously! I was so impressed with the writing, plotting and pacing, especially for a self-published debut.
Hornblower meets Robinson Crusoe, with just enough gay romance to give it a bit of extra spice. Old-timey British navy, shipwrecks, deserted islands, murdery pirates, and the old "oh no we had to squeeze together into this tight space to avoid capture and now we're each painfully aware of the other's breathing and body pressed against our own and *what if we kissed*" trope. Loved it!
This Australian author will definitely be an insta-buy for me from now on.
Hornblower meets Robinson Crusoe, with just enough gay romance to give it a bit of extra spice. Old-timey British navy, shipwrecks, deserted islands, murdery pirates, and the old "oh no we had to squeeze together into this tight space to avoid capture and now we're each painfully aware of the other's breathing and body pressed against our own and *what if we kissed*" trope. Loved it!
This Australian author will definitely be an insta-buy for me from now on.
March 13, 2022
Historical fiction isn't usually my jam, but I really liked this one. It took a minute to get into, but once I did, it was hard to put down. Good pacing, good character development, A+ surprises. Definitely worth the time for anyone who loves a plot with a slow burn romance. There are even content warnings in the back! Wish more books had them.
July 18, 2021
The first thing that called to me, was the gorgeous cover art!
I knew that I had to read the story behind this and wasn't disappointment in the least.
As a debut novel, this was a very impressive one.
The world building was descriptive and original. The characters were engaging and I wanted to know more about them.
The writing style was enjoyable and easy to get immersed in.
Overall, I look forward to reading more from this author
I knew that I had to read the story behind this and wasn't disappointment in the least.
As a debut novel, this was a very impressive one.
The world building was descriptive and original. The characters were engaging and I wanted to know more about them.
The writing style was enjoyable and easy to get immersed in.
Overall, I look forward to reading more from this author
July 28, 2021
~4.5 STARS~
This story is action packed! So much fighting… and more fighting. I loved how it gripped me from the very beginning and held me captive throughout the entire story. I read this story in one sitting. I loved that this was a slow burn and that it focused mainly on the actual story then sex.
The author paints a wonderful historical world, with vivid descriptions, original characters, and an exciting plot.
I'm excited to read more from this author.
This story is action packed! So much fighting… and more fighting. I loved how it gripped me from the very beginning and held me captive throughout the entire story. I read this story in one sitting. I loved that this was a slow burn and that it focused mainly on the actual story then sex.
The author paints a wonderful historical world, with vivid descriptions, original characters, and an exciting plot.
I'm excited to read more from this author.
July 19, 2021
WOW—there is a lot of action, blood, gore. and violence in this pirate tale. Still, this first-time author manages to find the sweetness and connection between the two MCs—both having to deal with much more responsibility and disaster than they should have to at their young age. Their relationship develops mainly through each saving the other’s life so many times that the reader can’t keep track! Major angst!
The overall focus is more on the British navy v. pirates story and survival on a deserted island than on the romance and there is only one full on sex scene at the plus 90% mark—which seemed gratuitous and jarring given the rest of the book. The author maintains the tension throughout—a constant threat of death and danger hangs over the characters at all times. She also has several nicely developed secondary characters-the junior officers, Wickerham. Smythe, and Agwe, and even Thomas’ first lover, Bill.
The conclusion of the pirates v. navy story is contrived. The final section back in England seems tacked on—but still sweet. The author’s problem here seems to be that she has created a very dark story from which she has to somehow pull an HEA. You do root for these two young men thrust into terrifying situations and managing through ingenuity and pluck to survive them.
The overall focus is more on the British navy v. pirates story and survival on a deserted island than on the romance and there is only one full on sex scene at the plus 90% mark—which seemed gratuitous and jarring given the rest of the book. The author maintains the tension throughout—a constant threat of death and danger hangs over the characters at all times. She also has several nicely developed secondary characters-the junior officers, Wickerham. Smythe, and Agwe, and even Thomas’ first lover, Bill.
The conclusion of the pirates v. navy story is contrived. The final section back in England seems tacked on—but still sweet. The author’s problem here seems to be that she has created a very dark story from which she has to somehow pull an HEA. You do root for these two young men thrust into terrifying situations and managing through ingenuity and pluck to survive them.
July 27, 2021
I was very surprised that this was a debut because the writing was excellent and will transport you to a swashbuckling adventure. I wasn’t exactly sure when it was set but the narrator explicitly says that it's a time when the pirates are even more ruthless than they’ve been because they are a dying breed. The only pirates left are the most brutal to have sailed the seas and the pirates in this story are definitely the most evil that I’ve ever seen depicted.
Poor Thomas is just a green navy officer and has never seen the true horrors the seas have to offer before. Faced with this adversity, he has to quickly learn that sometimes you have to do whatever it takes to survive. Lucky for him, he gains an ally that has already learned that lesson the hard way. Jim has been to hell and came through to the other side but he’s forgotten what living really is. Thomas helps him remember that and together they actually stand a chance of staying alive on a deserted island filled with evil pirates.
I think most readers will find it easy to connect with both Thomas and Jim despite the book being written in 3rd person. They are both very lovable and I was certainly rooting for them from the start. I was so happy to see that they got a HEA that's right for them. They certainly deserved it after the pain and suffering they go through.
Poor Thomas is just a green navy officer and has never seen the true horrors the seas have to offer before. Faced with this adversity, he has to quickly learn that sometimes you have to do whatever it takes to survive. Lucky for him, he gains an ally that has already learned that lesson the hard way. Jim has been to hell and came through to the other side but he’s forgotten what living really is. Thomas helps him remember that and together they actually stand a chance of staying alive on a deserted island filled with evil pirates.
I think most readers will find it easy to connect with both Thomas and Jim despite the book being written in 3rd person. They are both very lovable and I was certainly rooting for them from the start. I was so happy to see that they got a HEA that's right for them. They certainly deserved it after the pain and suffering they go through.
July 31, 2021
4.5 stars
Captivating historical adventure at sea novel
As a fan of historicals, I was hooked on from the get go. The story starts off right in the middle of smack-dab action as the young and dashing Lit.Thomas is called upon to take command of the 'Courage'. Told from Thomas POV, the author does a great job of world building, giving us not only a sense of seamen life in that era but also the politics and class differences that were in place.
Goodwill on Thomas' part prompts him to rescue and nurse the timid, mute, battered teen slave-Jim from the pirate clan. As war breaks out onboard and the duo find themselves shipwrecked on an island.
As the duo team up in the quest for survival, Thomas strikes up a bond with the mysterious Jim, who as the story unfolds, is nothing like what the rest perceived him to be.
Complemented by the excellent use of prose and diction, the storyline makes for a perfect balance of action, suspense, emotions and romance. Though I would have liked a little more of scenes of the MCs bonding, I loved the shy and tender nature of their love. The ending chapters were very well written and beautiful to read.
Considering this is the author's debut novel, very well done !
Highly recommend to fans of historical, Navy officer-Pirate romance. Shall be looking to read more from this author in the future.
Captivating historical adventure at sea novel
As a fan of historicals, I was hooked on from the get go. The story starts off right in the middle of smack-dab action as the young and dashing Lit.Thomas is called upon to take command of the 'Courage'. Told from Thomas POV, the author does a great job of world building, giving us not only a sense of seamen life in that era but also the politics and class differences that were in place.
Goodwill on Thomas' part prompts him to rescue and nurse the timid, mute, battered teen slave-Jim from the pirate clan. As war breaks out onboard and the duo find themselves shipwrecked on an island.
As the duo team up in the quest for survival, Thomas strikes up a bond with the mysterious Jim, who as the story unfolds, is nothing like what the rest perceived him to be.
Complemented by the excellent use of prose and diction, the storyline makes for a perfect balance of action, suspense, emotions and romance. Though I would have liked a little more of scenes of the MCs bonding, I loved the shy and tender nature of their love. The ending chapters were very well written and beautiful to read.
Considering this is the author's debut novel, very well done !
Highly recommend to fans of historical, Navy officer-Pirate romance. Shall be looking to read more from this author in the future.
July 26, 2021
This is the kind of novel that helps you to understand the phrase “my heart was in my throat” as there is an unceasing onslaught of peril, heroism, violence, grief, loss, and, against all odds, the beginning of something that could be love for protagonist Charlie Thomas and mysterious pirate Jim. There are untold twists and turns to follow, and some difficult moments-- these are not romanticized pirates, or naval men-- and it makes, overall, for an exhilarating, if often dark, reading experience. I felt for Thomas, doing his best against incredible odds, and even more for Jim, who’s been through so much and who nevertheless retains his sense of self and more kindness and honor, sometimes, than even our noble hero (make no mistake, Thomas is heroic, and deeply likeable, but he has a few moments, which are ultimately very humanizing).This is a riveting read, and well worth checking out.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 27, 2021
This book was a pleasant surprise which I really enjoyed. Normally I am not a real fan of pirate stories but this one was quite different. I never suspected while reading it, that this is a debut novel.
Chapeau to the author!
Although the story is relatively dark, the characters are so engaging that I couldn't put it down. This story is written purely from Thomas POV, which is perfect for this as it helps to keep the suspense strong.
Nevertheless I would not really describe it as a romance although the two MCs built a strong relationship, it is foremost a growing respect and a friendship.
I loved the part in England and would have enjoyed it, if we could have seen more of them at this stage. Especially as I wanted to see how they would go forward.
All in all, this was a very expressive story with a strong world building and fascinating characters, which I can only recommend.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
Chapeau to the author!
Although the story is relatively dark, the characters are so engaging that I couldn't put it down. This story is written purely from Thomas POV, which is perfect for this as it helps to keep the suspense strong.
Nevertheless I would not really describe it as a romance although the two MCs built a strong relationship, it is foremost a growing respect and a friendship.
I loved the part in England and would have enjoyed it, if we could have seen more of them at this stage. Especially as I wanted to see how they would go forward.
All in all, this was a very expressive story with a strong world building and fascinating characters, which I can only recommend.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
July 22, 2021
This was a historical adventure tale full of action and mystery! The cover is what pulled me towards the is book and I was glad it did! The story is told from Thomas's POV which really works to keep Jim the pirate boy a mystery! Everything is so visually description I felt like I was there going through all pain and hope along with Thomas! The pirate's are perfectly written too! The language and how they interacted! I could not put this book down. I do not want to give too much away but I will say this is a journey of survival, loyalty and learning to trust! The actual romance is more about the growing attraction and feelings Thomas and Jim start have for each other. I received an ARC of this book and I recommend for those who enjoy action, adventure and of course pirates!
July 21, 2021
Wow! I really enjoyed this well written fast reading swashbuckling pirate romance by a new author and their debute novel, and looking forward to reading their next. When Charlie an up and coming officer on one of her Royal Magisty's ship is attacked by pirates, even though they win the battle they lose most of the officers and his captian is injured. Charlie ends up charge and from there things go from bad to worse with them ending up stranded on a desert island, working with the pirate Jim to survive and be rescued. But together they learn that you can't always choose who you love and a future together is not really possible, right.
July 25, 2021
I really, really enjoyed this one. It sucked me from the first pages, because the plotline was so engaging and moved along at such a quick step that I couldn't put the book down. I almost can't believe this is this Andy Neville's debut novel, because the storytelling was so amazing and vivid that I felt an active participant of the action.
Reading Pirate's Parole was a thrilling adventure. Dramatic, thought provoking and emotional, with so many twists and turns and shocks and some really sweet and poignant moments.
It was a reading experience that set my heart racing and I can't recommend it enough.
Reading Pirate's Parole was a thrilling adventure. Dramatic, thought provoking and emotional, with so many twists and turns and shocks and some really sweet and poignant moments.
It was a reading experience that set my heart racing and I can't recommend it enough.
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November 29, 2021Eu li mais pelo contexto histórico da marinha inglesa onde os "grumetes" entravam bem jovens num sistema hierárquico de poder submissão sexual, espontâneo ou forçado, são relações que se formavam e que causou muitas punições e polêmicas ,escândalos no período. Afinal homens ao mar,isolados durante meses, são derrubados todas as modestias éticas, morais e sexuais...
A história é bem leve, de um capitão e um aprendiz de pirata que sobrevivem ao naufrágio numa ilha e se "apaixonam",a fanfic m/m ,bem meh.
Não é um "Bom Crioulo" do Adolfo Caminha ,um bom livro da literatura brasileira que trata desta mesma temática,com mais nuances de estória e personagens.
A história é bem leve, de um capitão e um aprendiz de pirata que sobrevivem ao naufrágio numa ilha e se "apaixonam",a fanfic m/m ,bem meh.
Não é um "Bom Crioulo" do Adolfo Caminha ,um bom livro da literatura brasileira que trata desta mesma temática,com mais nuances de estória e personagens.
July 27, 2021
I enjoyed this suspenseful, tense, and angsty pirate action/adventure story. It's a gritty, sometimes violent, tale of survival for naval officer Charles Thomas and mysterious pirate Jim. If there is a romance here, it is very slow burn. In fact, the intimate scene near the end seems incongruous with the rest of the book. The ending seemed a bit contrived, but it did provide at least an HFN ending. Overall, good for a for an author's first book.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
July 27, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel and as such,I am more than happy to recommend it!
Having read a lot of novels written by Alexander Kent,I was really looking forward to reading a lgbtq version and I must say I was definitely not disappointed with this book!
The story line had me hooked straight from the first words and I had to keep reading to find out what happened next.
I will definitely be interested in reading more books by Andy Neville.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
Having read a lot of novels written by Alexander Kent,I was really looking forward to reading a lgbtq version and I must say I was definitely not disappointed with this book!
The story line had me hooked straight from the first words and I had to keep reading to find out what happened next.
I will definitely be interested in reading more books by Andy Neville.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
July 28, 2021
Any fan of the Horatio Hornblower stories, Robinson Crusoe and Mutiny on the Bounty mixed with m/m romance will love this story. Lt. Thomas and Jim have to learn to survive and that requires learning to trust each other even in a situation most unlikely to build trust. The battles are realistic, the story of the island and its hardships is fascinating and these two form a bond that was developed at the perfect pace considering the circumstances. I cannot wait to see what adventures Andy Neville has in store for us in the future.
August 2, 2021
Pirate's Parole is a truly atmospheric read. The characters are well-drawn, as is the historical setting both shipboard and on the jungle island. The pacing is excellent, continuing to draw the reader in with well-written action scenes, a well-developed plot, a hint of romance, and sufficient intrigue to keep one guessing. This book is sure to appeal to fans of classic adventure and survival stories such as Treasure Island and Captain Blood.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy for free and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy for free and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
July 23, 2021
3.5 stars
Superbly executed historical novel with a super slow burn romance and piratical adventures on a deserted island.
The only thing that would have made it better was more character growth, as it doesn't really feel like Charlie experiences any real growth throughout, despite being only 19.
Regardless, this is an enjoyable escape read.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and I have chosen to leave an honest review.
Superbly executed historical novel with a super slow burn romance and piratical adventures on a deserted island.
The only thing that would have made it better was more character growth, as it doesn't really feel like Charlie experiences any real growth throughout, despite being only 19.
Regardless, this is an enjoyable escape read.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and I have chosen to leave an honest review.
August 28, 2021
Over all, I have no complaints about the writing in general. It was quite good actually.
But if you're looking for a steamy, pirate romp... This is not it.
There is literally 1 sex scene, at the very end. And it's really not even *that* graphic.
Disappointed, as a bit of stress relief might have lightened up the drama a bit... Just sayin'.
Don't regret the read. Will look forward to more from the author regardless.
But if you're looking for a steamy, pirate romp... This is not it.
There is literally 1 sex scene, at the very end. And it's really not even *that* graphic.
Disappointed, as a bit of stress relief might have lightened up the drama a bit... Just sayin'.
Don't regret the read. Will look forward to more from the author regardless.
July 23, 2021
Incredible debut novel!
This book was so good, even for a non historical reader like me!
Never judge a book by its cover, but that’s what drew me in from the beginning and the words inside were impeccable enough to back it up!
I honestly couldn’t believe this was the author’s first book.
The editing and verbiage was on point
The characters were well described and I truly felt like I was in this story from the beginning.
And of course, I am so glad for that hard won HEA. Or HFN. However you want to take it.
A definite slam dunk by Andy!
This book was so good, even for a non historical reader like me!
Never judge a book by its cover, but that’s what drew me in from the beginning and the words inside were impeccable enough to back it up!
I honestly couldn’t believe this was the author’s first book.
The editing and verbiage was on point
The characters were well described and I truly felt like I was in this story from the beginning.
And of course, I am so glad for that hard won HEA. Or HFN. However you want to take it.
A definite slam dunk by Andy!
July 26, 2021
Romance takes somewhat of a backseat here but Pirate’s Parole is still a wild ride that keeps your attention from start to finish. This is a very angsty read with Charlie and Jim fighting for survival but the world building is on point. Very well done for a debut novel.
February 16, 2022
Very good book! Fast pacing and captivating storyline.
More detailed review coming later.
More detailed review coming later.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews