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The McQuoids of Mayfair #2
The Heiress at Sea
A seafaring journey is the second chance for a lady and the last chance for a marquess in a thrilling novel about rebellious love, secrets, and danger by USA Today bestselling author Christi Caldwell.
Perpetually unattached Lady Cassia McQuoid has accepted her fate as a spinster. But how can she be expected to lead a life confined to drawing rooms and royal balls when there’s a vast, exciting world to explore? Cassia can find but one solution: she masquerades as a thrill-seeking lad and stows away on a ship bound for open waters. Adventure awaits. So does notorious privateer Nathaniel Ellsby.
Nathaniel doesn’t want to be the Duke of Roxburghe. Instead, the second-born son relishes his freedom to do as he pleases: pursuing enemy ships in service of the war effort. But when his older brother dies, Nathaniel embarks on one last mission before he fulfills his ducal duties with an arranged marriage. That’s the intention, at least—until he discovers that his woefully green deckhand is a fetching but vulnerable woman in disguise.
Nathaniel’s new mission is to protect Cassia from the perils of the sea, both above and below the water, by sharing the close confines of the captain’s quarters. As roiling emotions turn to love, Nathaniel and Cassia realize the greatest risks—to the Crown, to their futures, and to the heart—still lie ahead.
Perpetually unattached Lady Cassia McQuoid has accepted her fate as a spinster. But how can she be expected to lead a life confined to drawing rooms and royal balls when there’s a vast, exciting world to explore? Cassia can find but one solution: she masquerades as a thrill-seeking lad and stows away on a ship bound for open waters. Adventure awaits. So does notorious privateer Nathaniel Ellsby.
Nathaniel doesn’t want to be the Duke of Roxburghe. Instead, the second-born son relishes his freedom to do as he pleases: pursuing enemy ships in service of the war effort. But when his older brother dies, Nathaniel embarks on one last mission before he fulfills his ducal duties with an arranged marriage. That’s the intention, at least—until he discovers that his woefully green deckhand is a fetching but vulnerable woman in disguise.
Nathaniel’s new mission is to protect Cassia from the perils of the sea, both above and below the water, by sharing the close confines of the captain’s quarters. As roiling emotions turn to love, Nathaniel and Cassia realize the greatest risks—to the Crown, to their futures, and to the heart—still lie ahead.
331 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 14, 2023
862 people are currently reading
3958 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
136 books2,557 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 320 reviews
January 25, 2024
I’m sorry but despite the fact that CC is a competent writer and there were some beautifully crafted scenes in this book, the heroine and her associated plot lines ruined it for me. I just could not suspend disbelief for the duration.
Cassia’s naivety, perpetual misunderstanding and overdone innocence meant she seemed literally to be unable to understand plain English or to navigate ordinary social conversation. A couple of scenes were funny, but as the misunderstandings continued, they became so utterly annoying that I swiftly lost the will to live.
Cassia’s constant challenges to the men around her struck me as so unreal and ridiculous for the period that I wanted to throw my iPad at the wall.
I know many readers and authors are not all that interested in historical authenticity but when I read a book like this - which creates a fictional version of the world, as far away from the historical era as is possible, then, I want to cry.
The idea of a girl on a ship at that time and knowing how the crew would view her made my blood run cold. But it’s as if modern authors want to wipe away history and create a world that is simply the 21st century, but with long dresses and no antibiotics.
I am so fed up of this re-writing of history. I didn’t finish the read, but skimmed the last bit instead.
Cassia’s naivety, perpetual misunderstanding and overdone innocence meant she seemed literally to be unable to understand plain English or to navigate ordinary social conversation. A couple of scenes were funny, but as the misunderstandings continued, they became so utterly annoying that I swiftly lost the will to live.
Cassia’s constant challenges to the men around her struck me as so unreal and ridiculous for the period that I wanted to throw my iPad at the wall.
I know many readers and authors are not all that interested in historical authenticity but when I read a book like this - which creates a fictional version of the world, as far away from the historical era as is possible, then, I want to cry.
The idea of a girl on a ship at that time and knowing how the crew would view her made my blood run cold. But it’s as if modern authors want to wipe away history and create a world that is simply the 21st century, but with long dresses and no antibiotics.
I am so fed up of this re-writing of history. I didn’t finish the read, but skimmed the last bit instead.
February 5, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Montlake for an egalley in exchange for a review. I chose this title from the Read Now section
*New author to me *
Oh, I love a good historical romance on the high seas. However, this one was a bit silly.
Cassia MacQuoid yearns for the same type of adventure as her brother, Arran. Coming up with the plan to masquerade as a crew member to join Arran's best friend, Jeremy's crew, Cassia ends up on another ship altogether. Captain Nathaniel Ellsby is at sea to escape the demands of his father to marry the fiancée of his dead brother. Both are about to find themselves tested and changed on this voyage.
This is a standalone Regency romance with a heroine that doesn't adhere to societal rules. Cassia doesn't exactly know anything about seafaring and by speaking so loftily to crew members and the Captain finds her identity soon exposed. A lot of the choices this heroine made during this book had me looking through my fingers. Yet I cannot deny that I couldn't stop reading.
Overall, a good read with some action and adventure.
Expected Publication Date 14/03/23
Goodreads Review Published 05/02/23
*New author to me *
Oh, I love a good historical romance on the high seas. However, this one was a bit silly.
Cassia MacQuoid yearns for the same type of adventure as her brother, Arran. Coming up with the plan to masquerade as a crew member to join Arran's best friend, Jeremy's crew, Cassia ends up on another ship altogether. Captain Nathaniel Ellsby is at sea to escape the demands of his father to marry the fiancée of his dead brother. Both are about to find themselves tested and changed on this voyage.
This is a standalone Regency romance with a heroine that doesn't adhere to societal rules. Cassia doesn't exactly know anything about seafaring and by speaking so loftily to crew members and the Captain finds her identity soon exposed. A lot of the choices this heroine made during this book had me looking through my fingers. Yet I cannot deny that I couldn't stop reading.
Overall, a good read with some action and adventure.
Expected Publication Date 14/03/23
Goodreads Review Published 05/02/23
January 21, 2025
Cassia wants adventure. So she plans to sneak aboard her brother’s friend’s ship. Dressed as a young boy she goes aboard the ship, later out at sea, she realises that she is on the wrong ship.
Nathaniel is a privateer captain . That finds out that a lady has sneaked aboard his ship. She causes him nothing but problems.
This is a good story with plenty of humour.
Nathaniel is a privateer captain . That finds out that a lady has sneaked aboard his ship. She causes him nothing but problems.
This is a good story with plenty of humour.
March 14, 2023
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
3.5 hearts
The Heiress at Sea is set as a stand alone novel and can be read by itself but the heroine is Cassia McQuoid, sister to Myrtle McQuiod in The Duke Alone (sort of a historical romance meets home alone Christmas story). Cassia wants to have an adventure; she is three seasons in and no one has noticed her, if she is going to be a spinster she might as well have a little fun and stow away on her brother's and best friend's ship to head out and see the world. Until she ends up on the wrong ship headed on a secret mission against the French.
Nathanial has been the second son all of his life and that suited him just fine. Better in fact, because he was able to do what he wanted instead of being bogged down by his father and the dukedom. That was until his brother died too early and now he is supposed to give up his sailing ways and pick up the duties of his brother's life, including the woman he was supposed to marry. In a bid to put off the inevitable Nathaniel hightails it out of port as quickly as possible to be able to finish this last mission. Only problem, he has to add some sailors that are not from his normal crew into the mix and a deck hand that is going to change his life forever.
Cassia is so sheltered and naïve, it was hard to take her seriously in the beginning of the book. She has been taught to paint, do needlepoint and all the other useless things ladies of the Ton are supposed to be accomplished at. That said she hates most of them and figured the her brother, Arran, might be upset she was on Jeremy's boat but once out to sea at least she will get to see part of the world. When the captain turns out to be Nathanial instead, she knows she may be in over her head and on the wrong ship. Time to just try to be the best deck hand possible, that was until she was discovered.
Now Nathanial has a woman on his ship, which is bad luck, with red, though Cassia would say it was more auburn hair, also bad luck; she lost her hat overboard on the Friday, you guessed it bad luck and she whistles to just add to the bad luck. There are some on Nathanial's ship who will want this bad luck monster gone at all costs and he will need to find ways to both protect her and teach her the ways of the sea. Maybe the life he has been trying to avoid at all costs, settling down and starting a family isn't the worst thing that could happen to him. Maybe not being able to do that with the temptress on his ship would be the worst thing. Nathaniel will have to find a way to get the life he wants even if it costs him the life he has.
Narration:
Timothy Campbell is pretty well know in Historical Romance circles. With a large catalogue under his belt, he is not new to spinning romantic tales. Also the narrator for The Duke Alone, I was familiar with him and his work. He captured Cassia's chatterbox ways and Nathaniel's gruff exterior quite well. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
3.5 hearts
The Heiress at Sea is set as a stand alone novel and can be read by itself but the heroine is Cassia McQuoid, sister to Myrtle McQuiod in The Duke Alone (sort of a historical romance meets home alone Christmas story). Cassia wants to have an adventure; she is three seasons in and no one has noticed her, if she is going to be a spinster she might as well have a little fun and stow away on her brother's and best friend's ship to head out and see the world. Until she ends up on the wrong ship headed on a secret mission against the French.
Nathanial has been the second son all of his life and that suited him just fine. Better in fact, because he was able to do what he wanted instead of being bogged down by his father and the dukedom. That was until his brother died too early and now he is supposed to give up his sailing ways and pick up the duties of his brother's life, including the woman he was supposed to marry. In a bid to put off the inevitable Nathaniel hightails it out of port as quickly as possible to be able to finish this last mission. Only problem, he has to add some sailors that are not from his normal crew into the mix and a deck hand that is going to change his life forever.
Cassia is so sheltered and naïve, it was hard to take her seriously in the beginning of the book. She has been taught to paint, do needlepoint and all the other useless things ladies of the Ton are supposed to be accomplished at. That said she hates most of them and figured the her brother, Arran, might be upset she was on Jeremy's boat but once out to sea at least she will get to see part of the world. When the captain turns out to be Nathanial instead, she knows she may be in over her head and on the wrong ship. Time to just try to be the best deck hand possible, that was until she was discovered.
Now Nathanial has a woman on his ship, which is bad luck, with red, though Cassia would say it was more auburn hair, also bad luck; she lost her hat overboard on the Friday, you guessed it bad luck and she whistles to just add to the bad luck. There are some on Nathanial's ship who will want this bad luck monster gone at all costs and he will need to find ways to both protect her and teach her the ways of the sea. Maybe the life he has been trying to avoid at all costs, settling down and starting a family isn't the worst thing that could happen to him. Maybe not being able to do that with the temptress on his ship would be the worst thing. Nathaniel will have to find a way to get the life he wants even if it costs him the life he has.
Narration:
Timothy Campbell is pretty well know in Historical Romance circles. With a large catalogue under his belt, he is not new to spinning romantic tales. Also the narrator for The Duke Alone, I was familiar with him and his work. He captured Cassia's chatterbox ways and Nathaniel's gruff exterior quite well. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
June 18, 2023
I don't think I've ever read a Christie Caldwell book that didn't make me blissfully happy. The Heiress at Sea was so much fun. Admittedly, I do have a thing for romance aboard a ship and when the heroine disguises herself as a boy. This one absolutely hit a sweet spot for me.
Cassia and Nathaniel were so amazingly sweet together. I adored this one!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Cassia and Nathaniel were so amazingly sweet together. I adored this one!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
March 5, 2023
This is such a fun and entertaining historical romance. It’s been a while since I’ve read a historical romance that primarily takes place at sea, and I forgot how much I enjoyed them. The Heiress at Sea has an amazing swashbuckling setting, layered and compelling protagonists, and a swoon-worthy love story with fantastic (and comical) banter.
Cassia has never been to sea, and she is ignorant of the rules, restrictions, superstitions, and terminology used by sailors. This causes a lot of confusion and frustration, as well as some downright funny moments. When Cassia is revealed as a woman, it also creates some major conflicts in the story, as her reputation and physical safety are in jeopardy. Nathaniel becomes her protector, and he takes his job seriously. As frustrated and bewildered as he is by Cassia, he is also so drawn to her.
The relationship between Cassia and Nathaniel is fantastic. What starts as a very antagonistic, hidden identity and gender situation, turns into an opposites-attract, grumpy/sunshine battle of wits, and I loved every comical, frustrated, and laugh-out-loud funny second of it. They have THE BEST banter, and their verbal sparring is perfection. It’s funny and smart, and the way they misunderstand each other is hysterical.
Cassia is a chatterbox, which is the total opposite of Nathaniel. He is very practical and reserved, and he holds people at arm’s length. Cassia is passionate and emotional, and people are drawn to her exuberance and optimism. Cassia always has a smile on her face, while Nathaniel appears emotionless. However, with each other, they are able to explore other sides of themselves – her wanderlust and his feelings of intimacy and connection as well as moments of fun and levity.
I also like that Nathaniel starts to see people and relationships differently. He has very strong feelings about his parents, and I think his time with Cassia makes him see both of his parents and their marriage in a new light. People show love in different ways, and once Nathaniel realizes that he is forever changed.
I loved the story. It’s fun and funny, and there’s some action, suspense, and danger on a high-seas adventure and governmental mission. The secondary characters are great, especially the ones that become friends with Cassia, and the final declaration is super swoon-tactic. I also am intrigued by Cassia’s brother and his best friend and am curious if we’ll see more of them in future books. Fingers crossed!
Cassia has never been to sea, and she is ignorant of the rules, restrictions, superstitions, and terminology used by sailors. This causes a lot of confusion and frustration, as well as some downright funny moments. When Cassia is revealed as a woman, it also creates some major conflicts in the story, as her reputation and physical safety are in jeopardy. Nathaniel becomes her protector, and he takes his job seriously. As frustrated and bewildered as he is by Cassia, he is also so drawn to her.
The relationship between Cassia and Nathaniel is fantastic. What starts as a very antagonistic, hidden identity and gender situation, turns into an opposites-attract, grumpy/sunshine battle of wits, and I loved every comical, frustrated, and laugh-out-loud funny second of it. They have THE BEST banter, and their verbal sparring is perfection. It’s funny and smart, and the way they misunderstand each other is hysterical.
Cassia is a chatterbox, which is the total opposite of Nathaniel. He is very practical and reserved, and he holds people at arm’s length. Cassia is passionate and emotional, and people are drawn to her exuberance and optimism. Cassia always has a smile on her face, while Nathaniel appears emotionless. However, with each other, they are able to explore other sides of themselves – her wanderlust and his feelings of intimacy and connection as well as moments of fun and levity.
I also like that Nathaniel starts to see people and relationships differently. He has very strong feelings about his parents, and I think his time with Cassia makes him see both of his parents and their marriage in a new light. People show love in different ways, and once Nathaniel realizes that he is forever changed.
I loved the story. It’s fun and funny, and there’s some action, suspense, and danger on a high-seas adventure and governmental mission. The secondary characters are great, especially the ones that become friends with Cassia, and the final declaration is super swoon-tactic. I also am intrigued by Cassia’s brother and his best friend and am curious if we’ll see more of them in future books. Fingers crossed!
September 28, 2023
DROPPED.
WARNING : Contains a horrendously airhead heroine.
I GIVE UP. I HAVE NEVER EVER READ A STORY WHERE THE HEROINE WAS AN IMBECILE!
She prattled, and rambled and had no sense of self-preservation. I tried to move forward, hoping for things to have a good turnabout, but nope, Cassia was still as dumb (and I DO NOT USE THIS WORD LIGHTLY because it's horrible to call someone STUPID - that's how severe it is), but when she couldn't differentiate a boat from ships, painted flowers and pink skies on Nathaniel's boat, and carried on in a DANGEROUS environment as if she were a lady in a waiting room???!!
I. AM. BEYOND. STUNNED by the sheer silliness of WHY the author had to portray Cassia in this light. She could have been naïve and sheltered SANS the ignorant stupidity and lack of understanding cues. I wouldn't even trust her with the care of a babe!
Honestly, one of the worst Caldwell story ever. In history.
WARNING : Contains a horrendously airhead heroine.
I GIVE UP. I HAVE NEVER EVER READ A STORY WHERE THE HEROINE WAS AN IMBECILE!
She prattled, and rambled and had no sense of self-preservation. I tried to move forward, hoping for things to have a good turnabout, but nope, Cassia was still as dumb (and I DO NOT USE THIS WORD LIGHTLY because it's horrible to call someone STUPID - that's how severe it is), but when she couldn't differentiate a boat from ships, painted flowers and pink skies on Nathaniel's boat, and carried on in a DANGEROUS environment as if she were a lady in a waiting room???!!
I. AM. BEYOND. STUNNED by the sheer silliness of WHY the author had to portray Cassia in this light. She could have been naïve and sheltered SANS the ignorant stupidity and lack of understanding cues. I wouldn't even trust her with the care of a babe!
Honestly, one of the worst Caldwell story ever. In history.
February 22, 2023
Most importantly, I do think I would enjoy having a sea captain braid my hair.
The sea captain in question? Nathaniel, who is the second son of the Duke of Roxburghe whose older brother has recently died leaving him as the heir to the dukedom. But he doesn't want to be a duke, and he doesn't want to marry his dead brother's fiancee. He just wants to sail his ship. Cassia is tired of being overlooked by society and her family, and she wants to see the world. So she decides that she's going to disguise herself as a boy and sneak aboard the ship of her family friend. Only, she sneaks onto the wrong ship and ends up as Nathaniel's stowaway. Hijinx ensue!
I think this might not be a universal experience, but I really couldn't get on board (see what I did there?) with Cassia as our heroine. I think we're supposed to perceive her as incredibly sheltered and naive, but she honestly comes across as... not very smart? Some of the misunderstandings are a little bit funny, but there were so many and I lost my patience with her very quickly.
There's also a pretty big disconnect between how people/events are described to the reader vs how the characters seem to perceive them? Like, Cassia is really floundering as a swabbie on the ship, and then later they talk about how clever and competent she was and I would like to know where. Or Nathaniel will describe Cassia as "always smiling" but she is simply crying on almost every other page.
I normally love an action-adventure setting in a romance, but this just wasn't for me. I think if you don't mind a kind of silly heroine and a ton of miscommunication, you might still have a fun time with this one! It wasn't terrible, but I really struggled with the characters.
The sea captain in question? Nathaniel, who is the second son of the Duke of Roxburghe whose older brother has recently died leaving him as the heir to the dukedom. But he doesn't want to be a duke, and he doesn't want to marry his dead brother's fiancee. He just wants to sail his ship. Cassia is tired of being overlooked by society and her family, and she wants to see the world. So she decides that she's going to disguise herself as a boy and sneak aboard the ship of her family friend. Only, she sneaks onto the wrong ship and ends up as Nathaniel's stowaway. Hijinx ensue!
I think this might not be a universal experience, but I really couldn't get on board (see what I did there?) with Cassia as our heroine. I think we're supposed to perceive her as incredibly sheltered and naive, but she honestly comes across as... not very smart? Some of the misunderstandings are a little bit funny, but there were so many and I lost my patience with her very quickly.
There's also a pretty big disconnect between how people/events are described to the reader vs how the characters seem to perceive them? Like, Cassia is really floundering as a swabbie on the ship, and then later they talk about how clever and competent she was and I would like to know where. Or Nathaniel will describe Cassia as "always smiling" but she is simply crying on almost every other page.
I normally love an action-adventure setting in a romance, but this just wasn't for me. I think if you don't mind a kind of silly heroine and a ton of miscommunication, you might still have a fun time with this one! It wasn't terrible, but I really struggled with the characters.
April 2, 2023
this might be the lowest i’ve rated christi caldwell’s book. while i enjoyed the plot and the whole setup, cassia is naive to the point of unbelievable. she may be sheltered but i would think that after experiencing bad things from the same few people, cassia would’ve been more protective about herself or even scared. in the end, it just doesn’t come across the pages that she is kind-hearted or naive. however, i thought that nathaniel was okay. even though he was strict and stern in the beginning, he slowly opened up to cassia. turns out, he’s very soft-hearted and sweet. overall, i was slightly disappointed and a little sad about this, but will still continue to read her books.
March 9, 2023
⚓️ The Heiress at Sea 🏴☠️
✒️ Christi Caldwell
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorChrist... Release Date 03/14/2023
Publisher Montlake
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6HMJQ4B?...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
A seafaring journey is the second chance for a lady and the last chance for a marquess in a thrilling novel about rebellious love, secrets, and danger by USA Today bestselling author Christi Caldwell.
Perpetually unattached Lady Cassia McQuoid has accepted her fate as a spinster. But how can she be expected to lead a life confined to drawing rooms and royal balls when there’s a vast, exciting world to explore? Cassia can find but one solution: she masquerades as a thrill-seeking lad and stows away on a ship bound for open waters. Adventure awaits. So does notorious privateer Nathaniel Ellsby.
Nathaniel doesn’t want to be the Duke of Roxburghe. Instead, the second-born son relishes his freedom to do as he pleases: pursuing enemy ships in service of the war effort. But when his older brother dies, Nathaniel embarks on one last mission before he fulfills his ducal duties with an arranged marriage. That’s the intention, at least—until he discovers that his woefully green deckhand is a fetching but vulnerable woman in disguise.
Nathaniel’s new mission is to protect Cassia from the perils of the sea, both above and below the water, by sharing the close confines of the captain’s quarters. As roiling emotions turn to love, Nathaniel and Cassia realize the greatest risks—to the Crown, to their futures, and the heart—still lie ahead.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will her thirst for life lead her to her ruin...
Even without a series name to link it to the previous book The Duke Alone, it appears we will be following the McQuoid siblings’ adventures.
Currently, it is Cassia’s turn, the eldest daughter, a lady who believes herself to be so average she has become invisible, even to her kin.
So, as she has failed on the marriage mart for the last two seasons when her sister landed herself a duke even before her coming out, it is time for her to seek her own adventure, away from the ballrooms and calling hours.
She has thought about how she will handle it, she just lacked much intel to find the right track, thus how she landed on the wrong ship.
My thoughts turned hot and cold with Cassia, for having grown up among her rambunctious brothers and cousins, how she did not mature a thicker skin and got more knowledge about life outside the confines of her sheltered life.
Then she became the bubbly one, always chattering, never defeated, invariably seeking the good even in the worst.
What bothered me the most outside her bottomless naivety was her predisposition to cry for anything, all the time.
Nathaniel is a sweetheart, behind his armor, he is a man who built himself to be the one standing before us, honorable and respectful.
Cassia gave him every reason to throw her in the water, but with patience, he deals with this bungling magpie, even when her true identity is exposed and he is left with one missing crew member and a lady stowaway.
The author grants us an enjoyable out-of-the-usual settings experience between a sheltered lady and a lord who chooses to follow his dreams instead of living the idle life of a peer.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 embraces, closed-door lovemaking.
I have been granted an advance copy by the author and the publisher, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
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✒️ Christi Caldwell
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorChrist... Release Date 03/14/2023
Publisher Montlake
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6HMJQ4B?...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
A seafaring journey is the second chance for a lady and the last chance for a marquess in a thrilling novel about rebellious love, secrets, and danger by USA Today bestselling author Christi Caldwell.
Perpetually unattached Lady Cassia McQuoid has accepted her fate as a spinster. But how can she be expected to lead a life confined to drawing rooms and royal balls when there’s a vast, exciting world to explore? Cassia can find but one solution: she masquerades as a thrill-seeking lad and stows away on a ship bound for open waters. Adventure awaits. So does notorious privateer Nathaniel Ellsby.
Nathaniel doesn’t want to be the Duke of Roxburghe. Instead, the second-born son relishes his freedom to do as he pleases: pursuing enemy ships in service of the war effort. But when his older brother dies, Nathaniel embarks on one last mission before he fulfills his ducal duties with an arranged marriage. That’s the intention, at least—until he discovers that his woefully green deckhand is a fetching but vulnerable woman in disguise.
Nathaniel’s new mission is to protect Cassia from the perils of the sea, both above and below the water, by sharing the close confines of the captain’s quarters. As roiling emotions turn to love, Nathaniel and Cassia realize the greatest risks—to the Crown, to their futures, and the heart—still lie ahead.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will her thirst for life lead her to her ruin...
Even without a series name to link it to the previous book The Duke Alone, it appears we will be following the McQuoid siblings’ adventures.
Currently, it is Cassia’s turn, the eldest daughter, a lady who believes herself to be so average she has become invisible, even to her kin.
So, as she has failed on the marriage mart for the last two seasons when her sister landed herself a duke even before her coming out, it is time for her to seek her own adventure, away from the ballrooms and calling hours.
She has thought about how she will handle it, she just lacked much intel to find the right track, thus how she landed on the wrong ship.
My thoughts turned hot and cold with Cassia, for having grown up among her rambunctious brothers and cousins, how she did not mature a thicker skin and got more knowledge about life outside the confines of her sheltered life.
Then she became the bubbly one, always chattering, never defeated, invariably seeking the good even in the worst.
What bothered me the most outside her bottomless naivety was her predisposition to cry for anything, all the time.
Nathaniel is a sweetheart, behind his armor, he is a man who built himself to be the one standing before us, honorable and respectful.
Cassia gave him every reason to throw her in the water, but with patience, he deals with this bungling magpie, even when her true identity is exposed and he is left with one missing crew member and a lady stowaway.
The author grants us an enjoyable out-of-the-usual settings experience between a sheltered lady and a lord who chooses to follow his dreams instead of living the idle life of a peer.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 embraces, closed-door lovemaking.
I have been granted an advance copy by the author and the publisher, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
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February 7, 2023
Lord Nathaniel Ellsby hates land. He lives for the sea and capturing French ships as a privateer. Not known for a soft heart, he's not ready for the stowaway on his ship, Lady Cassia McQuoid. Cassia longs for adventure and boards the wrong Dragon ship. Nathaniel doesn't stand a chance when he finds out she's a lady. Her unusual personality keeps him confused, but grabs his heart, the one he never knew he had for anyone but his mother. Caught in his father's trap, Nathaniel has little hope of having Cassia as his wife. Hilarious with tears, Cassia keeps Nathaniel in constant confusion. As great a read as The Duke Alone.
Kissing and a little petting.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Kissing and a little petting.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
January 27, 2024
I am reading this as an ARC - and it is sometimes quite rough. Characters change names in the span of a few pages, which makes it really confusing to follow the story. Hayes, the quartermaster, is called Hawthorn at one point, and Alexander Albion, the sailing master/navigator is called Roxby a few times. I would have preferred to read a version of it that was almost ready for print without as many errors.
Also, the title for this book is misleading because Cassia is not an heiress - so no heiress at sea in actuality; she's a lady, her parents being the Earl and Countess of Abingdon, but her oldest brother will be the heir to all the responsibilities and properties.
Aside from those things - or perhaps in addition to them - I did not care for this novel. The heroine is portrayed as a nitwit for most of the novel (and I try not to say such things about characters, but when the shoe fits...) and I was not at all invested in her HEA with Nathaniel, or Nathan as she calls him, why I will never know. I think if it had not been an ARC, I would have DNF it long before the last word, but I felt compelled to keep going to give it a fair shot. Unfortunately, it was not a good choice for me.
Also, the title for this book is misleading because Cassia is not an heiress - so no heiress at sea in actuality; she's a lady, her parents being the Earl and Countess of Abingdon, but her oldest brother will be the heir to all the responsibilities and properties.
Aside from those things - or perhaps in addition to them - I did not care for this novel. The heroine is portrayed as a nitwit for most of the novel (and I try not to say such things about characters, but when the shoe fits...) and I was not at all invested in her HEA with Nathaniel, or Nathan as she calls him, why I will never know. I think if it had not been an ARC, I would have DNF it long before the last word, but I felt compelled to keep going to give it a fair shot. Unfortunately, it was not a good choice for me.
March 15, 2023
Since 2015, I have read hundreds and hundreds of different authors but I only have 31 authors that I consider my favorites and have read all their books (in my genre). Christi Caldwell is definitely one of those authors. This is my 79th book by her. I read 2 of her books in 2013 but didn’t pick her up again to read faithfully until 2015 and here I am 79 books later. I just love her writing. She always has such great stories and good characters.
I liked this story. I liked Nathan a lot. He knew what he wanted and didn't worry about much else. I liked his shipmates/friends. Cassia on the other hand, was a bit annoying. She sets out on this grand adventure, yet she cried at the drop of a hat and in my opinion was way too naive to tackle this adventure. I found her to be very immature. Most of the scenes with her in them, were frustratingly annoying. I also didn't like that there was no sex in this book, only implied.
Overall it was a good read but definitely not a favorite of mine which sucks because I was so looking forward to this book.
I liked this story. I liked Nathan a lot. He knew what he wanted and didn't worry about much else. I liked his shipmates/friends. Cassia on the other hand, was a bit annoying. She sets out on this grand adventure, yet she cried at the drop of a hat and in my opinion was way too naive to tackle this adventure. I found her to be very immature. Most of the scenes with her in them, were frustratingly annoying. I also didn't like that there was no sex in this book, only implied.
Overall it was a good read but definitely not a favorite of mine which sucks because I was so looking forward to this book.
April 30, 2023
The Heiress at Sea is my second Christi Caldwell book. It is definitely a comedic historical romance. Nathaniel is going to be a Duke, but he is on his last sea voyage as a captain of a privateer ship (who secretly is fighting the French for the Crown). No one expects anything from Cassia. She couldn't even find a husband, so she planned to stow away on her brother's friend's ship, pretending to be a lad. However, Cassia boarded the wrong ship, onto Nathaniel's ship. She immediately became seasick, would not stop talking, and was locked away in Nathaniel's cabin once she was discovered as a woman. They are opposites, grumpy/sunshine, adventure, and closed door romance.
Here's the thing, this is a fun story. I loved the well-rounded characters. The pacing is good, and I enjoyed the reading experience. I just wanted more for the romance. 4.5 stars.
Here's the thing, this is a fun story. I loved the well-rounded characters. The pacing is good, and I enjoyed the reading experience. I just wanted more for the romance. 4.5 stars.
March 29, 2023
Firstly, thank you to the author and NetGalley for the eARC.
Secondly, bora de portugaaa: Eu amei cada segundo desse livro. Simplesmente começamos com uma mulher que é vista como fraca por todos ao seu redor e então decidi que quer ver o mundo. Logo ela embarca, literalmente, numa aventura. Porém no navio errado, com a tribulação errado e com um disfarce. Só que o plano de “ver o mundo” vem por água abaixo quando ela é descoberta.
E de novo, eu amei cada segundo. Não pq de fato ela não é fraca, mas pq coisas femininas sempre são relacionadas com coisas fracas e isso não significa que aquilo nos define por total ou não nos permite aprender a gostar de outras coisas.
Enfim, 4⭐️ pq adorei muuuuito como a história se desenrolou.
Secondly, bora de portugaaa: Eu amei cada segundo desse livro. Simplesmente começamos com uma mulher que é vista como fraca por todos ao seu redor e então decidi que quer ver o mundo. Logo ela embarca, literalmente, numa aventura. Porém no navio errado, com a tribulação errado e com um disfarce. Só que o plano de “ver o mundo” vem por água abaixo quando ela é descoberta.
E de novo, eu amei cada segundo. Não pq de fato ela não é fraca, mas pq coisas femininas sempre são relacionadas com coisas fracas e isso não significa que aquilo nos define por total ou não nos permite aprender a gostar de outras coisas.
Enfim, 4⭐️ pq adorei muuuuito como a história se desenrolou.
January 15, 2023
I won't lie, the heroine makes me want to throw myself overboard and drown. She is beyond annoying. The constant crying and rambling... just not for me. Sorry. But the hero is the gooeist, most wonderful, protective cinnamon roll ever. He's a bit grumpy at first but he's never harsh, he's always respectful. All of his crew are wonderful as well, with the exception of a few. The story overall was very good except, like I said, for the crying and blabbering. I also don't care for the Scottish words I guess? All the overuse of "mayhap" and "nay" is distracting from the story in my opinion. I appreciate the opportunity to review this book.
February 23, 2023
This book started strong. I pretty much love every HR that involves a ship. And the first half of this book was great. I liked our heroine and hero bonding over sea sickness. And the sensual kisses. And then it started going downhill for me...
Cassia's "lack of any real skill" was proved not true... but then still talked about which annoyed me. The sensual kisses are the only spice in this book.
And then the ending made me CRINGE. I felt second hand embarrasement.
On a positive note, I like that (implied) they keep sailing but an epilogue would have made the ending better for me.
This was a tough rating... the beginning was a 4 but it quickly went downhill and ended near 2.5 ⭐️
Cassia's "lack of any real skill" was proved not true... but then still talked about which annoyed me. The sensual kisses are the only spice in this book.
And then the ending made me CRINGE. I felt second hand embarrasement.
On a positive note, I like that (implied) they keep sailing but an epilogue would have made the ending better for me.
This was a tough rating... the beginning was a 4 but it quickly went downhill and ended near 2.5 ⭐️
February 18, 2023
The Heiress at Sea was an entertaining adventure with a silly, childish FMC.
Cassia McQuoid, the heroine of this venture, is not a brain type person. By a brain type person, I mean a person who has a brain and uses it. But she can't even braid her own hair. She was feeling unwanted and dissatisfied with her life and thought it would be a fun lark to stow away on the ship her brother sails on but she gets the name of the ship wrong and her brother is not there to help her out. Then she is shocked to realize that her reputation might be ruined. Well duh girl, you ran away unchaperoned, to sail away with strangers, did you expect you could come back and nobody would notice you were gone? (Okay to be fair, her family forgot her sister when they went on vacation so that part might have been accurate.) She cries all the time, misinterprets commands and instructions, can never identify sarcasm at first try, and has no clue what happens on ships but tells the captain how to run his ship better. She's surprised to find out that you can get seasick. that sailors can be a rough crowd, and that her adventure might turn out to be quite dangerous, even deadly. She gets on the captain's last nerves and the reader sympathizes with him.
The hero is Captain Nathan Ellsby, a marquess and a duke's eldest living son and heir. His father expects him to marry some society lady and give up his seafaring ways but he doesn't think the life of an idle nobleman is for him. His annoyance at finding out his stowaway is a woman soon gives way to attraction and worrying about her. The hero and some of the sea crew were interesting characters and I did want to find out how Cassia and Nathan get out of their scrape.
Steam level: Something happened but it's not very graphic.
Cassia McQuoid, the heroine of this venture, is not a brain type person. By a brain type person, I mean a person who has a brain and uses it. But she can't even braid her own hair. She was feeling unwanted and dissatisfied with her life and thought it would be a fun lark to stow away on the ship her brother sails on but she gets the name of the ship wrong and her brother is not there to help her out. Then she is shocked to realize that her reputation might be ruined. Well duh girl, you ran away unchaperoned, to sail away with strangers, did you expect you could come back and nobody would notice you were gone? (Okay to be fair, her family forgot her sister when they went on vacation so that part might have been accurate.) She cries all the time, misinterprets commands and instructions, can never identify sarcasm at first try, and has no clue what happens on ships but tells the captain how to run his ship better. She's surprised to find out that you can get seasick. that sailors can be a rough crowd, and that her adventure might turn out to be quite dangerous, even deadly. She gets on the captain's last nerves and the reader sympathizes with him.
The hero is Captain Nathan Ellsby, a marquess and a duke's eldest living son and heir. His father expects him to marry some society lady and give up his seafaring ways but he doesn't think the life of an idle nobleman is for him. His annoyance at finding out his stowaway is a woman soon gives way to attraction and worrying about her. The hero and some of the sea crew were interesting characters and I did want to find out how Cassia and Nathan get out of their scrape.
Steam level: Something happened but it's not very graphic.
March 11, 2023
Lady Cassia McQuoid has accepted her fate as a spinster but she longs to explore the world so she masquerades as a thrill-seeking lad and stows away on a ship bound for open waters thinking it's the ship her brother serves on. Adventure awaits. So does notorious privateer Nathaniel Ellsby.
Nathaniel second son to the Duke of Roxburghe relishes his freedom to do as he pleases: pursuing enemy ships in service of the war effort. But when his older brother Marcus dies, Nathaniel embarks on one last mission before he fulfils his ducal duties with an arranged marriage to his brothers fiancée. Until he discovers that his woefully green deckhand is a fetching but vulnerable woman in disguise.
Another well written hugely entertaining read from one of my must read authors. I loved that the story takes place on a boat, sorry ship & it’s low in angst but high in humour. A very enjoyable read that would have been perfect it I'd liked Cassia but whilst I found her amusing in the beginning she started to grate on me & the more I read the more she annoyed me. However I did love Nathaniel & the storyline. The pair were like chalk & cheese & whilst there was chemistry between the pair, I did feel he’d be heading back to sea to escape her incessant chattering!
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Nathaniel second son to the Duke of Roxburghe relishes his freedom to do as he pleases: pursuing enemy ships in service of the war effort. But when his older brother Marcus dies, Nathaniel embarks on one last mission before he fulfils his ducal duties with an arranged marriage to his brothers fiancée. Until he discovers that his woefully green deckhand is a fetching but vulnerable woman in disguise.
Another well written hugely entertaining read from one of my must read authors. I loved that the story takes place on a boat, sorry ship & it’s low in angst but high in humour. A very enjoyable read that would have been perfect it I'd liked Cassia but whilst I found her amusing in the beginning she started to grate on me & the more I read the more she annoyed me. However I did love Nathaniel & the storyline. The pair were like chalk & cheese & whilst there was chemistry between the pair, I did feel he’d be heading back to sea to escape her incessant chattering!
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 11, 2023
SUMMARY:
♥️ Cassia + Nathaniel
💭 Dual POV
📜 Historial romance (ish)
⚓️ Set at sea
🤫 Hidden identities
🏴☠️ Pirates who are giant softies
❤️🔥 Slow burn
☀️ Grumpy/Sunshine
REVIEW:
This was such a fun read! I admit, it isn't REALLY an historical romance, in that is doesn't stay true to the conventions of the times, BUT it was wonderful for what it was. Cassia runs away from her tedious and unremarkable life and plans to sneak onto her brother's best friend's ship. Instead, she finds herself on the ship of Captain Nathaniel Ellsby, also, reluctantly, the Duke of Roxburghe. She pretends to be a boy, but once she is found out, the slow burn begins. She's ridiculous and loud and infuriating (both to me and to Nathan), and he is gruff and quiet and unable to resist her.
This was a cute forbidden romance with lovely side characters and some awful ones too. I definitely recommend this!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
♥️ Cassia + Nathaniel
💭 Dual POV
📜 Historial romance (ish)
⚓️ Set at sea
🤫 Hidden identities
🏴☠️ Pirates who are giant softies
❤️🔥 Slow burn
☀️ Grumpy/Sunshine
REVIEW:
This was such a fun read! I admit, it isn't REALLY an historical romance, in that is doesn't stay true to the conventions of the times, BUT it was wonderful for what it was. Cassia runs away from her tedious and unremarkable life and plans to sneak onto her brother's best friend's ship. Instead, she finds herself on the ship of Captain Nathaniel Ellsby, also, reluctantly, the Duke of Roxburghe. She pretends to be a boy, but once she is found out, the slow burn begins. She's ridiculous and loud and infuriating (both to me and to Nathan), and he is gruff and quiet and unable to resist her.
This was a cute forbidden romance with lovely side characters and some awful ones too. I definitely recommend this!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
March 20, 2023
I saw this Book on the Netgalley Webpage a few days ago and since I am an avid lover of the genre historical romance, I had to read it. They send me a Copy in exchange for a unbiased review.
This review is spoiler free.
Overall Thoughts:
I read this Book in one sitting, because I couldn’t put it down. I had genuinely a lot of fun while reading and there were a few scenes that just made me laugh out loud they were so funny.
The plot wasn’t that original, and the characters were sometimes just silly, but the writing was great and humorous.
The banter between the two main characters was just chef’s kiss it made things so much better and was done just right.
The only thing I didn’t like was that the Author did a fade to black thing with the sex scene. It was disappointing because I actually was looking forward to it. In a lot of historical romances, the sex scenes are the most important scenes in the whole book. Because what they do is they deepen the relationship of the couple and make it a lot more emotional and intimate. In a genre where you don’t have as much PDA happening, I feel like it makes a big difference in the progression of the couples romance. But other than that, I liked it a lot and recommend it to anyone who wants a fun, easy read.
In the end is it the most elaborate, romantic, and captivating Book you could ever read?
No, but is it fun and did it make me happy? Yes!
And honestly a lot of times that’s what matters the most.
This review is spoiler free.
Overall Thoughts:
I read this Book in one sitting, because I couldn’t put it down. I had genuinely a lot of fun while reading and there were a few scenes that just made me laugh out loud they were so funny.
The plot wasn’t that original, and the characters were sometimes just silly, but the writing was great and humorous.
The banter between the two main characters was just chef’s kiss it made things so much better and was done just right.
The only thing I didn’t like was that the Author did a fade to black thing with the sex scene. It was disappointing because I actually was looking forward to it. In a lot of historical romances, the sex scenes are the most important scenes in the whole book. Because what they do is they deepen the relationship of the couple and make it a lot more emotional and intimate. In a genre where you don’t have as much PDA happening, I feel like it makes a big difference in the progression of the couples romance. But other than that, I liked it a lot and recommend it to anyone who wants a fun, easy read.
In the end is it the most elaborate, romantic, and captivating Book you could ever read?
No, but is it fun and did it make me happy? Yes!
And honestly a lot of times that’s what matters the most.
Read
February 24, 2023Thank you to Christi Caldwell & the publisher, Montlake, for the ARC on NetGalley
Oh I do love a pirate story. I mean I know he's not really a pirate, but they so rarely are in historical romance. But this was a fun concept for a book, and I enjoyed all the characters. I do wish I had realised earlier that there was almost certainly an earlier book with Cassia's family (there is), because I was more lost than I should have been.
Oh I do love a pirate story. I mean I know he's not really a pirate, but they so rarely are in historical romance. But this was a fun concept for a book, and I enjoyed all the characters. I do wish I had realised earlier that there was almost certainly an earlier book with Cassia's family (there is), because I was more lost than I should have been.
February 2, 2023
A romantic-comedy slash adventurous story circles a gentleman, Nathaniel, and a lady, Cassia, in this lyrical book. I enjoyed my reading as it brought laughter to my gloomy self, and how feeble Cassia seems to be as she is indeed, a prim and proper lady. I liked the contrast between Nathan and Cassia, as they come together as lovers. Despite the cringey moments and some unbelievable scenes i taught should be opted out, the chemistry is quite ample to convince me. The plot seems a bit ridiculous, but acceptable in a romcom.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️,5/5
Spice: closed door (does feature some kissing scenes)
I enjoyed The Duke Alone immensely and when I saw this pop up on Netgalley I immediately requested it.
This book is about Myrtle’s sister Cassia, she is craving adventure since she has always had to be a proper lady and she is sick of it. Especially after seeing Myrtle married with the duke and the adventure Myrtle had over the winter.
She decides to board the ship that her brother works on with his best friend who she’s known all her life in a boy disguise. She plans to reveal herself to the captain but when she demands him she finds herself facing Captain Nathan.
Nathan recently lost his elder brother which means he is now a marquess and a future duke. His parents want him to marry the bethrothed of his late brother and for him to stop going back to sea. In an effort to outrun them he takes up a job that requires him to sail the next day on his ship.
This was again a lovely book by Christi Caldwell and I enjoyed it a lot. I related to Cassia because of her rejection sensitivity and her having so many symptoms of ADHD (I really wonder if she is neurodivergent).
I never read a book that takes place on a ship before and it was refreshing to be out of London and out of the country houses settings.
I liked how Nathan wasn’t scared to go after what he wanted in spite of what his father demanded of him.
The best part for me may be the in the final part with Nathan’s parents. We get a picture painted from Nathan’s pov about their relationship and in hindsight it’s totally the opposite. I laughed out loud a lot.
Thank you Netgalley and Montlake romance for providing an ARC.
Spice: closed door (does feature some kissing scenes)
I enjoyed The Duke Alone immensely and when I saw this pop up on Netgalley I immediately requested it.
This book is about Myrtle’s sister Cassia, she is craving adventure since she has always had to be a proper lady and she is sick of it. Especially after seeing Myrtle married with the duke and the adventure Myrtle had over the winter.
She decides to board the ship that her brother works on with his best friend who she’s known all her life in a boy disguise. She plans to reveal herself to the captain but when she demands him she finds herself facing Captain Nathan.
Nathan recently lost his elder brother which means he is now a marquess and a future duke. His parents want him to marry the bethrothed of his late brother and for him to stop going back to sea. In an effort to outrun them he takes up a job that requires him to sail the next day on his ship.
This was again a lovely book by Christi Caldwell and I enjoyed it a lot. I related to Cassia because of her rejection sensitivity and her having so many symptoms of ADHD (I really wonder if she is neurodivergent).
I never read a book that takes place on a ship before and it was refreshing to be out of London and out of the country houses settings.
I liked how Nathan wasn’t scared to go after what he wanted in spite of what his father demanded of him.
The best part for me may be the in the final part with Nathan’s parents. We get a picture painted from Nathan’s pov about their relationship and in hindsight it’s totally the opposite. I laughed out loud a lot.
Thank you Netgalley and Montlake romance for providing an ARC.
September 26, 2023
Back at her magical best.
Cassia is the eldest daughter of the Earl of Abingdon, she's had two seasons but feels left out of everything, even her younger sister was clever enough to be sent away to school, and she married without attending a single season. Determined to have an adventure Cassia decides to stow away on her brother and his best friend's ship when they go sightseeing around the world. But she gets the ships mixed up and ends up on a privateers ship bound for possible trouble intercepting a French ship in the Mediterranean.
Nathaniel Ellsby, now heir to the Duke of Roxburghe, and a Marquess in his own right, is a privateer, working for the King on missions behind enemy lines. Now heir, his father is pushing him to marry his late brothers betrothed and give up the sea. But the King has sent him to get the French battle plans, so he leaves London swiftly with a cobbled together crew, before his father can stop him. He doesn't expect this mission to be upended by a stowaway.
Just love this book, a follow on from A Duke Alone, Cassia's younger sister Myrtle's book. Looking forward to the next in the series, will it be McQuoid sibling or an Ellsby sibling?
Cassia is the eldest daughter of the Earl of Abingdon, she's had two seasons but feels left out of everything, even her younger sister was clever enough to be sent away to school, and she married without attending a single season. Determined to have an adventure Cassia decides to stow away on her brother and his best friend's ship when they go sightseeing around the world. But she gets the ships mixed up and ends up on a privateers ship bound for possible trouble intercepting a French ship in the Mediterranean.
Nathaniel Ellsby, now heir to the Duke of Roxburghe, and a Marquess in his own right, is a privateer, working for the King on missions behind enemy lines. Now heir, his father is pushing him to marry his late brothers betrothed and give up the sea. But the King has sent him to get the French battle plans, so he leaves London swiftly with a cobbled together crew, before his father can stop him. He doesn't expect this mission to be upended by a stowaway.
Just love this book, a follow on from A Duke Alone, Cassia's younger sister Myrtle's book. Looking forward to the next in the series, will it be McQuoid sibling or an Ellsby sibling?
May 12, 2023
A really entertaining Regency Historical romance set at sea around 1814. Lady Cassia has stowed away, (in men's clothing), on what she thinks is the ship her brother works on - except it's a privateer ship, captained by Nathaniel about to go on a spying/war mission.
The book is well written, with a slow burn romance and some steamy scenes. I partially read the ARC gifted me on NetGalley, but then I waited till release and borrowed the book on kindle unlimited, so I could listen to the included audio. Timothy Campbell does an excellent job of narrating and he captures the Captain perfectly. His female narration is not too shabby either. I wasn't too impressed with the amount of crying the heroine does, but apart from that I enjoyed the story, the chemistry between the H/h and the way the side characters were written. 4 stars.
The book is well written, with a slow burn romance and some steamy scenes. I partially read the ARC gifted me on NetGalley, but then I waited till release and borrowed the book on kindle unlimited, so I could listen to the included audio. Timothy Campbell does an excellent job of narrating and he captures the Captain perfectly. His female narration is not too shabby either. I wasn't too impressed with the amount of crying the heroine does, but apart from that I enjoyed the story, the chemistry between the H/h and the way the side characters were written. 4 stars.
March 12, 2023
The Heiress at Sea is Lady Cassia McQuoid and Nathaniel Ellsby, Duke of Roxburghe’s story; a standalone, happily ever after, no cheating historical romance, with a bit of sizzle, swashbuckling adventure, and intrigue.
I found this story to be amusing, adventurous, and romantic, reminiscent of Johanna Lindsey. Both the hero and heroine were strong characters, with differing agendas; but love prevails in the end!
This is another keeper by Christi!
I receive an electronic copy of this book from NetgGalley for my honest opinion.
I found this story to be amusing, adventurous, and romantic, reminiscent of Johanna Lindsey. Both the hero and heroine were strong characters, with differing agendas; but love prevails in the end!
This is another keeper by Christi!
I receive an electronic copy of this book from NetgGalley for my honest opinion.
March 10, 2023
It’s about a Duke who doesn’t want to be a Duke or get married he wants to sail the sea. And it also is about a lady who for 2 seasons couldn’t find a man so she sneaks on a ship to look for her brothers best friend and ends up on the wrong ship with the Duke who is a captain and she disguised herself as a man on his ship. It’s really good! I loved when they find out she’s not really a boy. And both characters want the same thing and like ran from their duties.
February 6, 2024
I reached 80% and just couldn't continue. I skimmed to the end. At first, I didn't mind Cassia's rambling and not understanding what was going on, but it got really annoying. I didn't care what happened with her, I just wanted her to shut up for once.
February 27, 2023
This book was a solid 2.5 stars for me but I rounded up to 3. While I liked the premise I feel like the execution of the story did not live up to it. There were cute moments between the two main characters there was nothing that really stood out. I ended up having more issues with the book than things that I enjoyed about it. One issue is that the heroine describes herself as a spinster which is just bizarre considering that she is 21 years old and has not even been through 3 full seasons yet. There is no way even at this point in history is a 21-year old considered a spinster or would think of herself as a spinster. Another issue I had was that so much of what could have been interesting to see was instead just told to us after it had happened. Just as I would start to get into something happening in the story the chapter would end or the POV would end and the next either chapter or POV would begin with a quick recap of what had eventually ended up happening. I also found that the end of the book came about so quickly that it did not feel like a satisfying conclusion of the story, Finally I did not realize this was a fade to black romance novel, which is not a bad thing necessarily but I just wish I had known before I started reading.
I received this book to review through NetGalley.
I received this book to review through NetGalley.
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