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Bluestocking Battalion #1
Miss Minerva's Pirate Mishap
Alternative covers for this ASIN can be found here and here.
A mysterious pirate claims he needs Minerva's help. But what if this thief ends up stealing her heart?
The eldest daughter of a naval captain, Minerva is well-versed in tactical objectives and strategic maneuvers. It's no wonder she's put those skills to use when planning her own future with her perfectly proper suitor. There is only one flaw in her plan. She's failed to take into account the troublesome newcomer who's hiding out in her seaside town. The irritating rogue is in her way at every turn—teasing, taunting, and all around upending her well-ordered life. But then again, what else would she expect from a pirate?
She'd like to say it's fear that makes her heart pound and her pulse race whenever he is near. She'd like to say that...but she's never been a very good liar. It's excitement, plain and simple, that has her seeking him out when she ought to be running in the opposite direction. And when he kisses her? Well, that stirs up another emotion entirely. One that makes her wonder what she's willing to sacrifice for duty...and just how much she'd risk for love.
A mysterious pirate claims he needs Minerva's help. But what if this thief ends up stealing her heart?
The eldest daughter of a naval captain, Minerva is well-versed in tactical objectives and strategic maneuvers. It's no wonder she's put those skills to use when planning her own future with her perfectly proper suitor. There is only one flaw in her plan. She's failed to take into account the troublesome newcomer who's hiding out in her seaside town. The irritating rogue is in her way at every turn—teasing, taunting, and all around upending her well-ordered life. But then again, what else would she expect from a pirate?
She'd like to say it's fear that makes her heart pound and her pulse race whenever he is near. She'd like to say that...but she's never been a very good liar. It's excitement, plain and simple, that has her seeking him out when she ought to be running in the opposite direction. And when he kisses her? Well, that stirs up another emotion entirely. One that makes her wonder what she's willing to sacrifice for duty...and just how much she'd risk for love.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 24, 2021
198 people are currently reading
560 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
September 13, 2021
***Some spoilers***
DNF at midway.
This had an OTT premise. Marcus, an earl's heir, faked
his death 10 yrs prior & his illegit. half brother became
the earl. In order for Marcus to "rescue" slave ships. Did
he do this at sea? at shore? wouldn't the ship's captain
put up a fight? how would Marcus communicate w/ the
slaves? would he shelter, feed & clothe them? give them
a job? were their lives better once he intervened? or did an
abolitionist society help them?
Minerva "Min" was eldest of a Navy sea captain's 5 dtrs.
Father now lived/ worked in a coastal area training Navy
men. One of his men had an eye on Min.
Min + her sister went to a tavern, seeking Marcus. Huh?
She had met him twice before. I liked the bantering of Min
+ Marcus but the story itself felt unreal. Also was he a
pirate VS a privateer? He had a letter of marque. Her sire
distrusted him. I lost interest.
DNF at midway.
This had an OTT premise. Marcus, an earl's heir, faked
his death 10 yrs prior & his illegit. half brother became
the earl. In order for Marcus to "rescue" slave ships. Did
he do this at sea? at shore? wouldn't the ship's captain
put up a fight? how would Marcus communicate w/ the
slaves? would he shelter, feed & clothe them? give them
a job? were their lives better once he intervened? or did an
abolitionist society help them?
Minerva "Min" was eldest of a Navy sea captain's 5 dtrs.
Father now lived/ worked in a coastal area training Navy
men. One of his men had an eye on Min.
Min + her sister went to a tavern, seeking Marcus. Huh?
She had met him twice before. I liked the bantering of Min
+ Marcus but the story itself felt unreal. Also was he a
pirate VS a privateer? He had a letter of marque. Her sire
distrusted him. I lost interest.
April 20, 2021
This is a very entertaining family of ladies. Great characters and a lovely plot that has sort of been left open-ended. Very much loved this most enjoyable story. I think this series is going to be fun to read.
5☆
5☆
February 16, 2021
4.5 stars
This was an enjoyable read with very engaging characters. Minerva Jones was the eldest of the sisters. Her mother hadn’t lived with them for many years and her father ran the household with a regimented lifestyle. Minerva loved walking by the sea and longed for an adventure. She comes across Marcus, a privateer who is on a mission. They do have an instant connection but Marcus has secrets of his own and a mission to complete. This has some dangerous events, banter and love between the sisters, and romantic moments. I look forward to reading about the other sisters. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was an enjoyable read with very engaging characters. Minerva Jones was the eldest of the sisters. Her mother hadn’t lived with them for many years and her father ran the household with a regimented lifestyle. Minerva loved walking by the sea and longed for an adventure. She comes across Marcus, a privateer who is on a mission. They do have an instant connection but Marcus has secrets of his own and a mission to complete. This has some dangerous events, banter and love between the sisters, and romantic moments. I look forward to reading about the other sisters. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 13, 2021
Minerva Jones is the eldest of five sisters & loves to walk on the nearby beach & go to her cave where she meets a mysterious pirate. Imagine her surprise when said pirate is in her Royal Navy father's study the next day. Is he a pirate or privateer? Marcus claims he needs Minerva's help.
An engrossing start to a new series, we met Marcus in A Lady's Luck but it's not necessary to have read this, I'm so pleased Marcus has his HEA as I fell for him & he’s still toe curlingly gorgeous. Min has been like a mother to her sisters since their mother left. All five sisters are delightful & are all so different & I look forward to each one finding love. Strong characters & a very well paced story had me devouring the book in a sitting. I loved the chemistry between Marcus & Min, which sizzled & whilst there was nothing stronger than a kiss the author conveyed how strong their attraction was. A roller coaster of an adventure where not appearances can be deceptive
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
An engrossing start to a new series, we met Marcus in A Lady's Luck but it's not necessary to have read this, I'm so pleased Marcus has his HEA as I fell for him & he’s still toe curlingly gorgeous. Min has been like a mother to her sisters since their mother left. All five sisters are delightful & are all so different & I look forward to each one finding love. Strong characters & a very well paced story had me devouring the book in a sitting. I loved the chemistry between Marcus & Min, which sizzled & whilst there was nothing stronger than a kiss the author conveyed how strong their attraction was. A roller coaster of an adventure where not appearances can be deceptive
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
August 14, 2023
Cute & wholesome little historical romance. Quite predictable but I enjoyed it nonetheless.
February 13, 2021
⭐⭐ONE BEGUILING ADVENTURE⭐⭐
Leaping lizards lou! Maggie unleashes one sensational, earth shaking turbulent rock-her-world with this scintillating rollercoaster, dishing out one heart pounding, pulse racing, adrenaline pumping, block busting dynamo, ramping up the exuberance and vigor, jetting this bad boy to staggering heights. Escapades and serendipity descend in volley of subtle moves and brilliant strategy, sketchy lines and busted barriers solidify as limitations are amplified and exploited, secrets are confessed, revelations are revealed and vows are pledged, wrapping this gem up sleek shiny and tight. Attributes and ingenuity in each thread you unravel with every page, your lured into this intricate web so securely and precise, attentive to the dramatic twists and stunning turns unfolding, blasting this baby into a frenzy with an astonishing culmination, hurling this mind-blowing treat to life spectacularly. The characters are complex, genuine and realistic with traits and qualities that balance and blend, with amazing depth and diversity with enough spice to add an extra kick to the mix. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Remarkable job Maggie, thanks for sharing this awesome little gem with us.
Leaping lizards lou! Maggie unleashes one sensational, earth shaking turbulent rock-her-world with this scintillating rollercoaster, dishing out one heart pounding, pulse racing, adrenaline pumping, block busting dynamo, ramping up the exuberance and vigor, jetting this bad boy to staggering heights. Escapades and serendipity descend in volley of subtle moves and brilliant strategy, sketchy lines and busted barriers solidify as limitations are amplified and exploited, secrets are confessed, revelations are revealed and vows are pledged, wrapping this gem up sleek shiny and tight. Attributes and ingenuity in each thread you unravel with every page, your lured into this intricate web so securely and precise, attentive to the dramatic twists and stunning turns unfolding, blasting this baby into a frenzy with an astonishing culmination, hurling this mind-blowing treat to life spectacularly. The characters are complex, genuine and realistic with traits and qualities that balance and blend, with amazing depth and diversity with enough spice to add an extra kick to the mix. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Remarkable job Maggie, thanks for sharing this awesome little gem with us.
February 10, 2021
An enjoyable Regency romance with adventure, humour and a feisty heroine, this first book in a new series kept my attention and made me laugh out loud. Having five daughters does not soften Captain Jones in the least and he leads his family with the same military precision as he does his naval crew. Minerva is the timekeeper and in charge, having to ensure that her sisters complete their regimen timeously, including their daily constitutional, which is what alerts Minerva to the fact that there is something going on in her cave, the one she calls her own. In a daring move, Minerva slips out of the house after dark to investigate the cave and meets the charming rogue Marcus Haversaw, if that is in fact his real name. Despite appearances, Minerva recognises that Marcus is telling the truth when he asks for her help, but the stolen kisses are what set her aflame. This delightful story is well written and adventurous, coming to a surprising conclusion. Although it is a standalone, it does open the way for Minerva's sisters, each of them unique in their own way, to have their story. I received a copy of this novel as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
January 17, 2021
Miss Minerva's Militia, by Maggie Dallen.
This book is a delightful romp for Minerva, her four-sister "militia," and her smuggler/agent beau. Daughter of a beached Royal Navy father, whose wife had left him with five daughters to go off adventuring, Minerva is a bright, intelligent, loyal commander for her brigade of sisters, all of whom are beautiful and different.
I love bluestocking novels, and this one ranks among the best I have read. Maggie Dallen has their number, and to my delight, plans a series based on these girls' different characters.
Minerva falls almost instantly in love with her smuggler hero Marcus, whose past is shrouded in mystery and carefully protected. The whole novel is delightfully constructed, and the action races to its inevitable conclusion.
Miss Minerva's Militia is the first of what is to be a planned series. If the other books are as creative as this one, I shall buy and read every one of them.
This book is a delightful romp for Minerva, her four-sister "militia," and her smuggler/agent beau. Daughter of a beached Royal Navy father, whose wife had left him with five daughters to go off adventuring, Minerva is a bright, intelligent, loyal commander for her brigade of sisters, all of whom are beautiful and different.
I love bluestocking novels, and this one ranks among the best I have read. Maggie Dallen has their number, and to my delight, plans a series based on these girls' different characters.
Minerva falls almost instantly in love with her smuggler hero Marcus, whose past is shrouded in mystery and carefully protected. The whole novel is delightfully constructed, and the action races to its inevitable conclusion.
Miss Minerva's Militia is the first of what is to be a planned series. If the other books are as creative as this one, I shall buy and read every one of them.
July 18, 2024
Minerva craves adventure like her mother she is chastised about it by her father, so Minerva uses her inner voice of reason to submerge her adventurous spirit to not be like her adventurous mother except for the hour of outdoor activity that her father encourages his daughters to have in their daily routine. Minerva's voice of reason and adventurous spirit battle each other after she meets Pirate/ privateer Marcus. Marcus is on one last mission to catch a smuggler. I enjoyed reading Marcus and Minerva's story with their great dialogue, mutual attraction and concerns for their family stopping them from a happy and adventure filled future together. Minerva does think that she's enjoying having a sense of purpose when Marcus asks for her help with his mission and will miss it when he leaves. Minerva reminds Marcus of someone from his past that is hinted at throughout anytime he is with Minerva.
January 5, 2024
I read this book first. I found it in a Facebook ad and it looked interesting. I downloaded the whole series. I read this first book the first night I downloaded it (which can't be said for the 100s of other books on my Kindle which may be read at some point 😅). Immediately after finishing this book, I starred reading the next in the series. I've read 3 books in 3 days.
I was raised to gravitate toward classic literature. Whereas these books aren't classics, I love them for 3 reasons:
1. They are romance, but clean romance.
2. They are quick to read. I read the whole book in one sitting, in fact, I don't want to stop reading until it's done.
3. It's set back in time, so it has that classic literature feel, without the classic literature language and length, which can be hard to get through
I was raised to gravitate toward classic literature. Whereas these books aren't classics, I love them for 3 reasons:
1. They are romance, but clean romance.
2. They are quick to read. I read the whole book in one sitting, in fact, I don't want to stop reading until it's done.
3. It's set back in time, so it has that classic literature feel, without the classic literature language and length, which can be hard to get through
February 8, 2021
We met the hero of this book, Marcus, in A Lady’s Luck. I liked him in that book and was so glad he was getting a story. Is he a pirate or a privateer? Is there really a difference except legality? Or is he something more? Yes, all of these questions will be answered. Maggie writes in such a way (especially with these more adventurous stories) that captivates you, keeps your attention and fall head over heels in love with the hero. Let’s not forget Minerva, she does command a militia and she is amazing. The interactions with Marcus and Minerva, even though sweet and clean, are bursting with raw emotions. Attributed to the writer of these fantastic stories.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
February 16, 2021
I love Maggie Dallen’s books. She’s one of the few who is among the very best in writing in two different genres, Young Adult and Regency Period romance. I happen to be a big fan of both. In regard to the latter, case in point is her new series, Bluestocking Battalion, which starts off with Miss Minerva's Militia (Book 1). This is a perfect sweet Regency romance and bears all of this author’s hallmarks: a strong plot (that, yes, is definitely Regency Period appropriate), perfectly crafted lead and supporting characters, great writing and, most of all, lots (and lots) of addictive fun. Marcus may be the troublemaker disturbing Minerva's careful plans, but we readers are definitely the beneficiaries. This is a book that’s easy to highly recommend.
January 27, 2022
A Fun Romance
I had a nice review all typed up and because the app is awkward on my phone, it's gone now. I'll do my best to rewrite it.
I enjoyed the fairytale quality of this story. The characters were varied and interesting. I look forward to reading more about them in the rest of the series. It's a clean, historical romance with a bit of humor, a dash of spice, and a mystery, which contributed to the higher rating.
What kept it from being a 5-star was the constant use of modern phrases, as well as a few misused words. I do realize this book is targeted at YA/teen readers. I think it's perfect for that group
If you enjoy clean, historical, YA romance, then I recommend this book to you.
I had a nice review all typed up and because the app is awkward on my phone, it's gone now. I'll do my best to rewrite it.
I enjoyed the fairytale quality of this story. The characters were varied and interesting. I look forward to reading more about them in the rest of the series. It's a clean, historical romance with a bit of humor, a dash of spice, and a mystery, which contributed to the higher rating.
What kept it from being a 5-star was the constant use of modern phrases, as well as a few misused words. I do realize this book is targeted at YA/teen readers. I think it's perfect for that group
If you enjoy clean, historical, YA romance, then I recommend this book to you.
February 4, 2022
sweet read
A sweet and clean read about the oldest daughter of captain Jones, Minerva. She helps a privateer try to catch a smuggler but in the end she and he catch each other. It is a standalone story in that the romance comes to a happy end.
I definitely would have rated this higher but it is a story that I consider a cliffhanger and I (had I known) probably would not have read it. I just am not one , personally, who enjoy books that leave big questions unanswered at the end . I prefer the author gives warning that this is the case ahead of time.
A sweet and clean read about the oldest daughter of captain Jones, Minerva. She helps a privateer try to catch a smuggler but in the end she and he catch each other. It is a standalone story in that the romance comes to a happy end.
I definitely would have rated this higher but it is a story that I consider a cliffhanger and I (had I known) probably would not have read it. I just am not one , personally, who enjoy books that leave big questions unanswered at the end . I prefer the author gives warning that this is the case ahead of time.
October 15, 2023
Overall, I was not impressed with this particular book. This was a quick read with an OK plot and OK characters. Additionally, it was obvious within the first few chapters on where Dallen was going to take the story. The writing was on the wall. Personally, I can only hope that the next book in the series will make up for this particular book's lackluster of originality and characters.
Note: Originally completed this book on 01 April 2023. All the 2023 book reviews I posted were accidentally deleted. I am in the process of reposting them. Thank you for your understanding.
Note: Originally completed this book on 01 April 2023. All the 2023 book reviews I posted were accidentally deleted. I am in the process of reposting them. Thank you for your understanding.
March 30, 2024
I’m on a Maggie Dallen kick rn. Read if you’re looking for a strong independent female who’s strong and independent through action and not just the author saying she’s not like other girls. Loved that independent meant that she could take care of herself, not that she just automatically pushed everyone away. Also loved that the FMC and MMC loved each other for real, deep, brokenness-healing reasons and not just cause they thought the other was hot (but also they did think that and hellooo chemistry). I’m excited for book 2 cause those two are usually my favorite types of characters.
January 19, 2021
This is the first book in Ms Dallen's new series and it didn’t disappoint. Although our hero was from “A Ladys Luck” it is not necessary and in some ways good if it has not be read, as his past is all part of the adventure and mystery. I just loved Minerva’s story. She is such a strong character and Marcus is the perfect hero. This book is a lovely beginning to her sister's HEA and each has such a different personality that is going to be another great series. This book is a nice clean quick page-turning read. I received this as ARC and freely give my review.
February 2, 2022
Fun story with adventure and a hint of mystery
I liked this book. Maggie Dallen does a great job of creating romantic stories and scenes that don't go beyond the line of clean/appropriate. This story hints at a mystery at the beginning that gets greater throughout and leaves you wanting to read the next book to learn even more! It also refers to the hero's brother, whose story you can read first to understand more, though it's not required to enjoy this story.
I liked this book. Maggie Dallen does a great job of creating romantic stories and scenes that don't go beyond the line of clean/appropriate. This story hints at a mystery at the beginning that gets greater throughout and leaves you wanting to read the next book to learn even more! It also refers to the hero's brother, whose story you can read first to understand more, though it's not required to enjoy this story.
April 3, 2022
She had grown doing her duty, looking after her sisters and father, when her mother had left.
Although adventure and excitement was in her blood, she tried to quell it. She had a family to look after, she would not follow in her mother's footsteps.
He had finally come to his last mission, injury and lack of his former zeal for the hunt, made him sure it was time to look to another life. Just this last mission!
Although adventure and excitement was in her blood, she tried to quell it. She had a family to look after, she would not follow in her mother's footsteps.
He had finally come to his last mission, injury and lack of his former zeal for the hunt, made him sure it was time to look to another life. Just this last mission!
August 14, 2021
Thanks to my FB feed for alerting me that this book was free (with a promo code) on Apple Books!
The elements were all familiar, but they seemed to be put together (to me, anyway) in a fresh way.
I see that stories are available for two of the younger sisters - and a third is due out later this year. I may have to look for them!
The elements were all familiar, but they seemed to be put together (to me, anyway) in a fresh way.
I see that stories are available for two of the younger sisters - and a third is due out later this year. I may have to look for them!
January 26, 2022
A past naval captain's daughter's curiosity puts her in the middle of a pirate's booty when exploring her favorite cave in her small town. She comes across a debonair and polite presumed pirate with whom she is attracted. However, not everything is how it appears. A quick and easy read with much conversation involved and a lovely cover makes this Regency era book a good bedtime story.
January 28, 2022
Amazing
A truly fine story with all the intrigue, mystery and excitement I want when I read. I fell in love with Minerva and Marcus from the moment they met. I plan on reading a lot more of Maggie Fallon's words. I definitely recommend this reading for all ages from mature teens to elders like myself.it's
A truly fine story with all the intrigue, mystery and excitement I want when I read. I fell in love with Minerva and Marcus from the moment they met. I plan on reading a lot more of Maggie Fallon's words. I definitely recommend this reading for all ages from mature teens to elders like myself.it's
February 2, 2022
Their ID, was love
This is a wonderful story great story line and characters you will love. He s a Earl, who gave up his title, and home for love of family, and declared himself dead at sea.She s a military man,s daughter who commands her younger sisters. When these two meet,sparks fly ,and love is the end result
Thank you ♥️
This is a wonderful story great story line and characters you will love. He s a Earl, who gave up his title, and home for love of family, and declared himself dead at sea.She s a military man,s daughter who commands her younger sisters. When these two meet,sparks fly ,and love is the end result
Thank you ♥️
February 13, 2022
Maggie Dallen … Miss Minerva’s Pirate Mishap
Minerva discovers she is more like her adventure seeking mother who abandoned her family than she’d ever guess. She meets a pirate who has moved smuggled goods into her cave and falls in love ready to sail the high seas with him. What will her stern father think and how will her sisters manage without her? Recommended!
Minerva discovers she is more like her adventure seeking mother who abandoned her family than she’d ever guess. She meets a pirate who has moved smuggled goods into her cave and falls in love ready to sail the high seas with him. What will her stern father think and how will her sisters manage without her? Recommended!
February 17, 2022
Awesome book full of adventure!
A house full of young ladies in a sleepy seaside town become smack in the middle of a smuggling ring. The oldest is upset because someone is in her cave where she goes to get a few minutes of solitude. There she finds what she believes to be a pirate; but he’s really her heart.
A house full of young ladies in a sleepy seaside town become smack in the middle of a smuggling ring. The oldest is upset because someone is in her cave where she goes to get a few minutes of solitude. There she finds what she believes to be a pirate; but he’s really her heart.
February 16, 2023
Cute, but stretches believability
Very cute fun regency romance. However the melodrama is very dramatic and decisions made by multiple characters before the actual books begins stretch believability a lot more than your average sweet regency romance. By a lot. Enough that it made the book feel less fulfilling.
Very cute fun regency romance. However the melodrama is very dramatic and decisions made by multiple characters before the actual books begins stretch believability a lot more than your average sweet regency romance. By a lot. Enough that it made the book feel less fulfilling.
October 19, 2023
This was a cute little love story. Very easy to read and will make you smile. I just have a problem with super quick “I just met you, but I love you” stories. It is too fast for me and I feel like it’s unrealistic. I’m sure somewhere there is someone who had this experience and it worked; however, I’m not super excited about it. Still, it was nice and sweet.
March 26, 2024
Cute, clean romance
I got my pirate, a strong heroine, and a HEA. What more can I ask for? Well....maybe a little more peril, a little more spice, more caves to explore? Idk. It was a charming read but I'll jump into my next book and probably not think of this one again. And I'm on the fence about continuing the series.
I got my pirate, a strong heroine, and a HEA. What more can I ask for? Well....maybe a little more peril, a little more spice, more caves to explore? Idk. It was a charming read but I'll jump into my next book and probably not think of this one again. And I'm on the fence about continuing the series.
February 16, 2021
Always a delight.
Dallen has the gift of writing terrific characters and witty dialogue.And of course, delightful heroes and heroines. Highly recommended. We can also rely on her for excellent writing and editing.
Dallen has the gift of writing terrific characters and witty dialogue.And of course, delightful heroes and heroines. Highly recommended. We can also rely on her for excellent writing and editing.
February 10, 2022
Hard times & pirates galore.
When Minerva's mother leaves 5 young girls. Min takes over the home. As they grow up she feels stiffuled when running into a privateer and falls in love only to meet with disaster. Will things get resolved before it's to late?
When Minerva's mother leaves 5 young girls. Min takes over the home. As they grow up she feels stiffuled when running into a privateer and falls in love only to meet with disaster. Will things get resolved before it's to late?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews