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Tina se débat. Elle est à la merci de l'Indien. Maintenant, il va la tuer... C'est l'un de ces splendides guerriers séminoles qui parcourent les marécages de la Floride. Mais il y a quelque chose d'étrange : cet Indien a les yeux bleus ! Un bleu profond, d'une grande intensité. Ce regard, Tina le connaît, il l'a souvent fascinée. Ours rapide... La première fois qu'elle l'a rencontré, il lui avait dit s'appeler James McKenzie. Ce soir-là, au milieu d'une foule élégante, il portait un costume noir et une chemise à jabot de dentelle. Chacun de ses gestes trahissait une vitalité extraordinaire. C'était sans doute pour cela que les femmes s'affolaient sur son passage, parce qu'elles détectaient sa sauvagerie sous des dehors civilisés. Tina, elle, avait tout de suite su qu'il la haïssait...
450 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 1, 1996
56 people are currently reading
746 people want to read
About the author
Heather Graham
583 books6,893 followersAlso published as Heather Graham Pozzessere and Shannon Drake.
New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Heather Graham majored in theater arts at the University of South Florida. After a stint of several years in dinner theater, back-up vocals, and bartending, she stayed home after the birth of her third child and began to write, working on short horror stories and romances. After some trial and error, she sold her first book, WHEN NEXT WE LOVE, in 1982 and since then, she has written over one hundred novels and novellas including category, romantic suspense, historical romance, vampire fiction, time travel, occult, and Christmas holiday fare. She wrote the launch books for the Dell's Ecstasy Supreme line, Silhouette's Shadows, and for Harlequin's mainstream fiction imprint, Mira Books.
Heather was a founding member of the Florida Romance Writers chapter of RWA and, since 1999, has hosted the Romantic Times Vampire Ball, with all revenues going directly to children's charity.
She is pleased to have been published in approximately twenty languages, and to have been honored with awards frorn Waldenbooks. B. Dalton, Georgia Romance Writers, Affaire de Coeur, Romantic Times, and more. She has had books selected for the Doubleday Book Club and the Literary Guild, and has been quoted, interviewed, or featured in such publications as The Nation, Redbook, People, and USA Today and appeared on many newscasts including local television and Entertainment Tonight.
Heather loves travel and anything have to do with the water, and is a certitified scuba diver. Married since high school graduation and the mother of five, her greatest love in life remains her family, but she also believes her career has been an incredible gift, and she is grateful every day to be doing something that she loves so very much for a living.
New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Heather Graham majored in theater arts at the University of South Florida. After a stint of several years in dinner theater, back-up vocals, and bartending, she stayed home after the birth of her third child and began to write, working on short horror stories and romances. After some trial and error, she sold her first book, WHEN NEXT WE LOVE, in 1982 and since then, she has written over one hundred novels and novellas including category, romantic suspense, historical romance, vampire fiction, time travel, occult, and Christmas holiday fare. She wrote the launch books for the Dell's Ecstasy Supreme line, Silhouette's Shadows, and for Harlequin's mainstream fiction imprint, Mira Books.
Heather was a founding member of the Florida Romance Writers chapter of RWA and, since 1999, has hosted the Romantic Times Vampire Ball, with all revenues going directly to children's charity.
She is pleased to have been published in approximately twenty languages, and to have been honored with awards frorn Waldenbooks. B. Dalton, Georgia Romance Writers, Affaire de Coeur, Romantic Times, and more. She has had books selected for the Doubleday Book Club and the Literary Guild, and has been quoted, interviewed, or featured in such publications as The Nation, Redbook, People, and USA Today and appeared on many newscasts including local television and Entertainment Tonight.
Heather loves travel and anything have to do with the water, and is a certitified scuba diver. Married since high school graduation and the mother of five, her greatest love in life remains her family, but she also believes her career has been an incredible gift, and she is grateful every day to be doing something that she loves so very much for a living.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
April 5, 2020
Amo molto la Graham per i gialli e i suoi paranormal (la saga Krewe of Hunters), ma in versione storica sinora l'avevo letta come SHANNON DRAKE (serie western meravigliosa), sempre con grande appagamento.
Anche la sua serie "Florida Civil War" è molto conosciuta, però purtroppo da noi sono arrivati soltanto due volumi.
Questo PRIGIONIERA, peraltro arriva, dopo il primo capitolo, appunto non pubblicato in Italia, in cui viene narrato il matrimonio forzoso di Tara Brent e Jarrett McKenzie, che avrei voluto moltissimo leggere.
Qui la storia viene riassunta e intuiamo qualche sprazzo, però per me Jarrett e Tara (che pure appaiono come comprimari) stravincono alla grande sulla coppia James/Teela.
I fratelli McKenzie sono figli dello stesso padre, ma mentre Jarrett è bianco, anche se cresciuto dalla seconda moglie indiana e quindi comunque legato alle genti native della Florida, il minore James è un mezzosangue, in bilico tra due mondi.
Dopo aver scelto di vivere come Orso che corre, ha visto morire la bellissima moglie pellerossa e la figlia più piccola, per cui ha affidato l'ultima figlia rimastagli al fratello, facoltoso proprietario di una piantagione, e vive ai margini della società civile, mediando e affiancando le tribù superstiti dei Seminole nella loro ultima disperata lotta contro l'esercito statunitense che vuole confinarli verso le riserve dell'ovest, per dare le terre ai coloni.
Quando il romanzo inizia, siamo nel 1837, la guerra infuria ormai da tempo, i trattati di convivenza sono stati violati (soprattutto a causa dei bianchi; direi che la Graham è piuttosto netta nel prendere posizione e nel dimostrare simpatia alle tribù sterminate, piuttosto che ai bravi soldati blu che lottano per il "loro" paese) e per dare l'ultimo colpo di grazia l'esercito si avvale di ufficiali spietati come il maggiore Warren. In tutto questo il maggiore decide di chiamare a sè la figliastra ribelle, che ha appena rifiutato il pretendente da lui proposto. Per sfuggire a quest'uomo brutale e violento, Teela accetta la provvisoria ospitalità di Jarrett e di sua moglie, e qui si imbatte in colui che scambia all'inizio per un avvenente gentiluomo.
Ma sotto la camicia bianca e la rendigote, c'è il bellissimo corpo di Orso che corre...
Si tratta pur sempre di un introvabile, con 24 anni di età, per cui si indulge a un certo melodramma. Di solito gradisco abbastanza le trame tumultuose, ma ho trovato la protagonista un po' troppo sopra le righe.
Se James è giustificato nel suo essere tormentato e dilaniato, pure provato dal lutto, di Teela ci viene detto in continuazione che ha una chioma rosso fuoco, che è indomita, tumultuosa, ecc., però sostanzialmente non fa altro che fare di testa sua, senza pensare, e esponendo a rischi e gravi pericoli se stessa e coloro che vorrebbero aiutarla. Direi che c'è un baratro tra lei e la lucida, riflessiva Tara.
Da subito, poi, si attacca all'indiano senza mollarlo più, peggio di una colla, anche se la scena dopo lo detesta, in un continuo prendersi, lasciarsi e rincorrersi, in mezzo agli agguati e alle battaglie.
Nel complesso, a parte Teela, il romanzo si legge bene, e la Graham inserisce un corredo di informazioni storiche e analisi delle politiche del tempo, che gli conferiscono una buona credibilità storica.
Infine Orso che corre deve tenere fede alla presunta forza amatoriale del selvaggio rispetto al quieto bianco, quindi si dà da fare con costanza: scene di passione garantite.
Anche la sua serie "Florida Civil War" è molto conosciuta, però purtroppo da noi sono arrivati soltanto due volumi.
Questo PRIGIONIERA, peraltro arriva, dopo il primo capitolo, appunto non pubblicato in Italia, in cui viene narrato il matrimonio forzoso di Tara Brent e Jarrett McKenzie, che avrei voluto moltissimo leggere.
Qui la storia viene riassunta e intuiamo qualche sprazzo, però per me Jarrett e Tara (che pure appaiono come comprimari) stravincono alla grande sulla coppia James/Teela.
I fratelli McKenzie sono figli dello stesso padre, ma mentre Jarrett è bianco, anche se cresciuto dalla seconda moglie indiana e quindi comunque legato alle genti native della Florida, il minore James è un mezzosangue, in bilico tra due mondi.
Dopo aver scelto di vivere come Orso che corre, ha visto morire la bellissima moglie pellerossa e la figlia più piccola, per cui ha affidato l'ultima figlia rimastagli al fratello, facoltoso proprietario di una piantagione, e vive ai margini della società civile, mediando e affiancando le tribù superstiti dei Seminole nella loro ultima disperata lotta contro l'esercito statunitense che vuole confinarli verso le riserve dell'ovest, per dare le terre ai coloni.
Quando il romanzo inizia, siamo nel 1837, la guerra infuria ormai da tempo, i trattati di convivenza sono stati violati (soprattutto a causa dei bianchi; direi che la Graham è piuttosto netta nel prendere posizione e nel dimostrare simpatia alle tribù sterminate, piuttosto che ai bravi soldati blu che lottano per il "loro" paese) e per dare l'ultimo colpo di grazia l'esercito si avvale di ufficiali spietati come il maggiore Warren. In tutto questo il maggiore decide di chiamare a sè la figliastra ribelle, che ha appena rifiutato il pretendente da lui proposto. Per sfuggire a quest'uomo brutale e violento, Teela accetta la provvisoria ospitalità di Jarrett e di sua moglie, e qui si imbatte in colui che scambia all'inizio per un avvenente gentiluomo.
Ma sotto la camicia bianca e la rendigote, c'è il bellissimo corpo di Orso che corre...
Si tratta pur sempre di un introvabile, con 24 anni di età, per cui si indulge a un certo melodramma. Di solito gradisco abbastanza le trame tumultuose, ma ho trovato la protagonista un po' troppo sopra le righe.
Se James è giustificato nel suo essere tormentato e dilaniato, pure provato dal lutto, di Teela ci viene detto in continuazione che ha una chioma rosso fuoco, che è indomita, tumultuosa, ecc., però sostanzialmente non fa altro che fare di testa sua, senza pensare, e esponendo a rischi e gravi pericoli se stessa e coloro che vorrebbero aiutarla. Direi che c'è un baratro tra lei e la lucida, riflessiva Tara.
Da subito, poi, si attacca all'indiano senza mollarlo più, peggio di una colla, anche se la scena dopo lo detesta, in un continuo prendersi, lasciarsi e rincorrersi, in mezzo agli agguati e alle battaglie.
Nel complesso, a parte Teela, il romanzo si legge bene, e la Graham inserisce un corredo di informazioni storiche e analisi delle politiche del tempo, che gli conferiscono una buona credibilità storica.
Infine Orso che corre deve tenere fede alla presunta forza amatoriale del selvaggio rispetto al quieto bianco, quindi si dà da fare con costanza: scene di passione garantite.
February 24, 2012
Enthralling Tale of Forbidden Passion in the Florida Wilderness
This is the second in Graham's 19th century Old Florida's McKenzies series--passionate romances that tell the stories of the men and women who shaped a great state. Graham takes care to give us the history of the times (it's her home state after all!) as she weaves wonderful tales of love in the Eden that was the Florida Territory.
The story opens in 1837, (a year after RUNAWAY ended) as beautiful southern belle Teela Warren is taken captive by the half-breed Seminole, James McKenzie, aka Running Bear, who lost the Indian wife he loved deeply and one of his two young daughters to disease the year before. Then the story takes us back to when Teela first arrived in Florida, summoned from her home in South Carolina by her cruel military stepfather, Major Michael Warren, who is in Florida hunting Indians. The Indians, his own men and Teela hate him. James has left his young daughter in the care of his brother Jarrett and his wife Tara (from Runaway) at their plantation Cimarron, a protected island of calm in the midst of the Indian wars. The evening Teela arrives, she meets James, now a bitter man. He is wildly attracted to the beautiful red head but dismayed to learn she is Warren's daughter and, of course, he thinks she would toy with him as a red man.
James is a man women are drawn to...to his wildness, his masculine prowess and his handsome and striking good looks. Raised as a gentleman among his white relatives, he has another side...the savage half of him that will defend the Seminoles, his other people. Teela has decided she must have real love or be independent and will not accept a husband of her stepfather's choosing. Without realizing it, she falls in love with James and gives herself to him soon after they meet. James' brother, Jarrett, is concerned where their affair will lead since James can offer her no life and her stepfather hates the Seminoles.
It's a moving, well-told story that tore at my heart--a tale of two people who should be together, who can't deny each other the passion between them, but who are often torn apart by the forces and prejudices of their time.
You won't be disappointed in this one. I highly recommend it.
The series in order:
RUNAWAY
CAPTIVE
REBEL
SURRENDER
GLORY
TRIUMPH
This is the second in Graham's 19th century Old Florida's McKenzies series--passionate romances that tell the stories of the men and women who shaped a great state. Graham takes care to give us the history of the times (it's her home state after all!) as she weaves wonderful tales of love in the Eden that was the Florida Territory.
The story opens in 1837, (a year after RUNAWAY ended) as beautiful southern belle Teela Warren is taken captive by the half-breed Seminole, James McKenzie, aka Running Bear, who lost the Indian wife he loved deeply and one of his two young daughters to disease the year before. Then the story takes us back to when Teela first arrived in Florida, summoned from her home in South Carolina by her cruel military stepfather, Major Michael Warren, who is in Florida hunting Indians. The Indians, his own men and Teela hate him. James has left his young daughter in the care of his brother Jarrett and his wife Tara (from Runaway) at their plantation Cimarron, a protected island of calm in the midst of the Indian wars. The evening Teela arrives, she meets James, now a bitter man. He is wildly attracted to the beautiful red head but dismayed to learn she is Warren's daughter and, of course, he thinks she would toy with him as a red man.
James is a man women are drawn to...to his wildness, his masculine prowess and his handsome and striking good looks. Raised as a gentleman among his white relatives, he has another side...the savage half of him that will defend the Seminoles, his other people. Teela has decided she must have real love or be independent and will not accept a husband of her stepfather's choosing. Without realizing it, she falls in love with James and gives herself to him soon after they meet. James' brother, Jarrett, is concerned where their affair will lead since James can offer her no life and her stepfather hates the Seminoles.
It's a moving, well-told story that tore at my heart--a tale of two people who should be together, who can't deny each other the passion between them, but who are often torn apart by the forces and prejudices of their time.
You won't be disappointed in this one. I highly recommend it.
The series in order:
RUNAWAY
CAPTIVE
REBEL
SURRENDER
GLORY
TRIUMPH
February 2, 2015
this book is VERY melodramatic. I'm guessing it's because how stories were written back then. I chose this book because I wanted a good historical that was different from a regency or a highlander story. Teela is an infuriating pain in the ass, and James is a grade A douche. Not sure how I'll make it through the remaining 8hrs in this story.
back to the book.....
Teela is TOO STUPID TO LIVE!!!
3hrs left in the book.....
It took FOREVER for James and Teela to act like a loving couple. FOR FUCKING EVER!!! And by the time that happened there was like only an hour and a half in the story. I couldn't understand why James was so against Teela (aside from who her stepfather was). He claimed to love both his white and indian heritages but he was so flipping hateful to Teela. Their first time together was anything but tender and loving. It's like the author wanted to show passion between the two so instead of adding in that sexual tension she went with he I hate you but I wanna fuck your brains out and then be mean to you method.
I dont think I'll hunt down any more stories in this series, and the book was VERY long winded so I may not break my neck to hunt down anything else from this author.
Story 2.5 - once you get past all the bullshit the story itself was actually ok.
narrator - 3 not bad at all.
back to the book.....
Teela is TOO STUPID TO LIVE!!!
3hrs left in the book.....
It took FOREVER for James and Teela to act like a loving couple. FOR FUCKING EVER!!! And by the time that happened there was like only an hour and a half in the story. I couldn't understand why James was so against Teela (aside from who her stepfather was). He claimed to love both his white and indian heritages but he was so flipping hateful to Teela. Their first time together was anything but tender and loving. It's like the author wanted to show passion between the two so instead of adding in that sexual tension she went with he I hate you but I wanna fuck your brains out and then be mean to you method.
I dont think I'll hunt down any more stories in this series, and the book was VERY long winded so I may not break my neck to hunt down anything else from this author.
Story 2.5 - once you get past all the bullshit the story itself was actually ok.
narrator - 3 not bad at all.
June 19, 2014
*Re-read*
I loved it!
Here's my previous review.
I loved it!
Here's my previous review.
July 30, 2022
Само заради липсата на недоразумения, с която обида към читателските мозъци романсите прекаляват (заедно с мама/татко-ме-погледнаха-накриво-и-ми-съсипаха живота), си заслужава закръгляне нагоре.
3,5⭐️
3,5⭐️
September 9, 2021
I read this so many years ago that I can't remember enough to write a review, except that the history that the author inserts into the novels of this series, plus the fascinating characters make it an amazing series.
August 6, 2011
This is the sequel to "Runaway" and book 2 of a 6 part Florida Civil War series. I really did enjoy this book more than "Runaway," which was an excellent book. I think I probably liked James a little better than Jarrett.
Teela Warren is sent to Florida by her cruel, abusive stepfather, a major in the army, so that he may keep a more careful watch over her and beat her as he sees fit for all of her imagined offenses. I really hate this bastard Michael Warren. Not only does he treat Teela horribly, he has a foundness for killing Seminole Indians, and encourages his men to not waste bullets on the infants, but to bash their heads against a tree.
Teela is to stay with Jarrett & Tara McKenzie until her dreaded stepfather comes to collect her. He is forcing her to marry someone she hasn't even met. Major Warren doesn't count on Teela meeting Jarrett's halfbrother, James Running Bear McKenzie. They're instantly attracted to each other. Teela needed to feel love that has been denied to her by her deplorable stepfather and James needed to fill a void in his heart from the recent loss of his wife and small daughter.
When Warren comes to collect Teela, she runs away and James finds her and helps her, but is wrongly accused to kidnapping Teela. Major Warren will stop at nothing to see James hanged until dead and James will stop at nothing to see Teela safe, even if it means giving her up to another man.
Teela Warren is sent to Florida by her cruel, abusive stepfather, a major in the army, so that he may keep a more careful watch over her and beat her as he sees fit for all of her imagined offenses. I really hate this bastard Michael Warren. Not only does he treat Teela horribly, he has a foundness for killing Seminole Indians, and encourages his men to not waste bullets on the infants, but to bash their heads against a tree.
Teela is to stay with Jarrett & Tara McKenzie until her dreaded stepfather comes to collect her. He is forcing her to marry someone she hasn't even met. Major Warren doesn't count on Teela meeting Jarrett's halfbrother, James Running Bear McKenzie. They're instantly attracted to each other. Teela needed to feel love that has been denied to her by her deplorable stepfather and James needed to fill a void in his heart from the recent loss of his wife and small daughter.
When Warren comes to collect Teela, she runs away and James finds her and helps her, but is wrongly accused to kidnapping Teela. Major Warren will stop at nothing to see James hanged until dead and James will stop at nothing to see Teela safe, even if it means giving her up to another man.
March 22, 2024
This was as much a history lesson as a historical romance. And the romance is ...well... very hot and cold and rapey. He just rips off her gown on multiple occasions and takes her as was the custom when this was written. Still its not terrible. I learned a lot about the American Indian civil war, maybe more than I wanted and the Audible version has George. Guidall narrating so that was good.
January 3, 2011
This is the part of the Florida Civil War Series that precedes the Civil War, introducing us to the government's war to remove or exterminate the Indian population of Florida. I learned that many of the famous Union generals, such as: Sherman, Grant and even Tyler (who would become President)became hardened to bloodletting and commanding with total disregard for human suffering. Many considered the Indians less than human,killing whole villages in hours.
I must warn the hardcore war addict that this series is really historical romance and may seem too much like chick lit to some readers. But I have read more of this series and really enjoyed every one.
I must warn the hardcore war addict that this series is really historical romance and may seem too much like chick lit to some readers. But I have read more of this series and really enjoyed every one.
July 12, 2019
Ok, so this is one review for the whole saga.
The saga begins during the second Seminole war and ends at the end of the secession war. The first two books are about Jarrett (white american) and James his half brother who is half white (same father)/half Seminole. The four following books are focused on their children.
The McKenzies are a close knit family. Then secession war happens and though they are all staunchly against slavery they find themselves politically divided.
Heather Graham has a real talent to weave real History through her romances and each time she gave us both side of the story.
One of my favorite historical saga ever.
The saga begins during the second Seminole war and ends at the end of the secession war. The first two books are about Jarrett (white american) and James his half brother who is half white (same father)/half Seminole. The four following books are focused on their children.
The McKenzies are a close knit family. Then secession war happens and though they are all staunchly against slavery they find themselves politically divided.
Heather Graham has a real talent to weave real History through her romances and each time she gave us both side of the story.
One of my favorite historical saga ever.
September 20, 2012
I love a Heather Graham historical romance. I saw this book for sale at the local library and couldn’t resist, so glad I didn’t. Teela and James are the perfect opposites to attract. James is the half breed warrior, cunning, brave and handsome. Teela is the damsel trying to escape marriage and her overbearing mean spirited step-father, who is warring against the Indian uprising. The story flows smoothly with enough excitement to keep you turning the page. I am excited to read the other stories in this series.
August 10, 2011
Captive was just so extrodinary! This series never seems to disappoint! The pointed of history and the clever love story tied and twined with eachother so amazing, passionate, also filled with sorrow, hate and true love which made it an unforgetable book. It was so creative and so real! I just love this book. It's a MUST read! I don't know why they don't turn some of these books into movies, I would go and see it! It was also well written and incrediable!
January 10, 2016
The tale of a seemingly doomed love story between the daughter of an army captain and a proud Indian warrior ... an incredible glimpse into what we call the forgotten Seminole wars ... This book is what well-written, historically accurate, emotional romance should be about ...
I simply loved it very much !! It is definitely a story that brings you to tears while making your heart race at every page do not miss it !! you will soar until the end
I simply loved it very much !! It is definitely a story that brings you to tears while making your heart race at every page do not miss it !! you will soar until the end
September 13, 2020
4 stars for history. 2 stars for romance. Good historical, loved the history and atmosphere of "old Florida", very misogynistic though. The sex was loveless and base. There was nothing between them but the physical, despite good backstory on both characters. It left me wishing she'd gone with John.
April 23, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Teela Warren and James Mackenzie, once were friends when they were mere children, even though Teela knew it was forbidden. Her step father, Major Michael Warren, despises Indians and is doing everything he can to exterminate them. Teela has been summoned home, to marry a man her step father has in mind of her. Not that Teela has any plans in agreeing. When she arrives in Florida, she is picked up by Jarret Mackenzie (Jame's half brother). He takes her to his plantation home, safe from the military and the indians. Its considered neutral territory. Teela comes face to face with none other than James Mackenzie once again. A man she once cared deeply for but circumstances led them apart. James is full of anger especially when coming face to face with Warren's daughter. He knows that he can never have her. But as the war between the military and the native american's builds in intensity, so does the passion between James and Teela. Their love is caught up in a horrible war of death, mutilation and cruelty. But in the wilds of the Florida Territoy they find a love worth fighting for.
The Hero
James Mackenzie AKA Running Bear, is half seminole and and half white. His father married a indian and loved her. James has worked hard to bring a peace between the two warring people, James is divided, and at times he is tested in the worst ways. He doesn't feel like he belongs in the world of the whites, with their drawing rooms and parties and uncomfortable clothing. He feels more at home in the wilds, in his mocassins. James has turned into a cynical and bitter man, when his wife and one of his daughters were killed as a result of a raid. Now he has one daughter left and leaves her with his brother, since he won't risk losing her too. James is a character, that takes a while to know and love. He is very alpha, cynical in many ways but is a fighter for a people that have been brutalized in the worst ways. He is determined and strong and passionate.
The Heroine
Teela Warren, hasn't had the typical southern belle upbringing that many would expect. When her mother married Michael Warren, her life went from good to worse. He didn't hesitate to show her the consequences of breaking the rules of his house with his fists. Despite his influence, Teela has grown up with courage and a fightiing spirit. She doesn't let what he does influence her goals for life or for herself. When she comes cross James again, she is torn in two. Because she has always cared deeply for him and has no idea how they can make anything work. Their love is forbidden, but Teela is willing to fight along side the man she loves for the people he defends. Teela is very spirited and courageous, but she can also make rash decisions without thinking, which gives her the vibe of being foolish at times. But you also see a beautiful strength this woman has and is such a good match for James.
Plot and Story Line
Captive is the second book in this family saga. Now this is the first book I have read in the series, and I can tell you I have been wanting to pick up these books FOREVER!!! Ever since I discovered this author's historical's many years ago, I fell in love with her style of writing. Now I first want to put out this is NOT for everyone. It is angst and some high levels at times, but what is so spectacular about this story that really wrapped me up was the historical details. Man is Heather Graham brilliant with bringing this events to life and so accurately too!! I didn't know much about the Florida civil war, or what the Seminole have suffered. I only knew minor details. Heather Graham is from Florida, and she definitely researched very well for this book. It can be heart wrenching to read a story like this, because of the setting. Its a war setting, literally. This is right before the civil war between the states. The military of the United States, are being more determined to get the seminole out of Florida and out west. But the Seminole are a stubborn people, this is their home and they fight with it even in the blood of their warriors, women and children. What was the hardest to get through with this story was the brutality against the women and most especially children. (think babies heads bashed in) that is how brutal the military was. We have our main villain Michael Warren, now he is one piece of work. He is pretty much the insigator of the brutality against the Seminole. Who only want to survive and not leave the wilds of Florida. But Warren is determined to exterminate them in awful ways. We also see another danger with Teela and James being together. Because Teela is Warren's daughter and to many of the Seminole, she is their enemy too. So we have that added dilemma in addition to everything else going on. But there is still some silver linings that happen too. There are moments between James and Teela that are light and fun and once they get past their issues, their bond thrives. My favorite part was when they spend some time together in the wilds of Florida, hidden away. Making love, swimming together and enjoying what little peace they can find. We also get some unique characters added in. I really liked James' brother and sister in law (who are the MC of the first book). They do what they can to stay neutral, but still help James and Teela when they are needed most. I loved the way Heather Graham swept me away in this epic love story of two lovers who face insurmountable odds and conquer in the end!!
The Cover
I absolutely adore GREEN!! And the cover really gives off the right atmosphere for the story. Love the pelican.
Overall View
Captive is a feiry and sensual romance that takes you on an adventure through the wilds of Florida, to passion and desire, epic and a love to fight for!!! SWEEPS YOU AWAY!
[foogallery id="21197"]
Summary
Teela Warren and James Mackenzie, once were friends when they were mere children, even though Teela knew it was forbidden. Her step father, Major Michael Warren, despises Indians and is doing everything he can to exterminate them. Teela has been summoned home, to marry a man her step father has in mind of her. Not that Teela has any plans in agreeing. When she arrives in Florida, she is picked up by Jarret Mackenzie (Jame's half brother). He takes her to his plantation home, safe from the military and the indians. Its considered neutral territory. Teela comes face to face with none other than James Mackenzie once again. A man she once cared deeply for but circumstances led them apart. James is full of anger especially when coming face to face with Warren's daughter. He knows that he can never have her. But as the war between the military and the native american's builds in intensity, so does the passion between James and Teela. Their love is caught up in a horrible war of death, mutilation and cruelty. But in the wilds of the Florida Territoy they find a love worth fighting for.
The Hero
James Mackenzie AKA Running Bear, is half seminole and and half white. His father married a indian and loved her. James has worked hard to bring a peace between the two warring people, James is divided, and at times he is tested in the worst ways. He doesn't feel like he belongs in the world of the whites, with their drawing rooms and parties and uncomfortable clothing. He feels more at home in the wilds, in his mocassins. James has turned into a cynical and bitter man, when his wife and one of his daughters were killed as a result of a raid. Now he has one daughter left and leaves her with his brother, since he won't risk losing her too. James is a character, that takes a while to know and love. He is very alpha, cynical in many ways but is a fighter for a people that have been brutalized in the worst ways. He is determined and strong and passionate.
The Heroine
Teela Warren, hasn't had the typical southern belle upbringing that many would expect. When her mother married Michael Warren, her life went from good to worse. He didn't hesitate to show her the consequences of breaking the rules of his house with his fists. Despite his influence, Teela has grown up with courage and a fightiing spirit. She doesn't let what he does influence her goals for life or for herself. When she comes cross James again, she is torn in two. Because she has always cared deeply for him and has no idea how they can make anything work. Their love is forbidden, but Teela is willing to fight along side the man she loves for the people he defends. Teela is very spirited and courageous, but she can also make rash decisions without thinking, which gives her the vibe of being foolish at times. But you also see a beautiful strength this woman has and is such a good match for James.
Plot and Story Line
Captive is the second book in this family saga. Now this is the first book I have read in the series, and I can tell you I have been wanting to pick up these books FOREVER!!! Ever since I discovered this author's historical's many years ago, I fell in love with her style of writing. Now I first want to put out this is NOT for everyone. It is angst and some high levels at times, but what is so spectacular about this story that really wrapped me up was the historical details. Man is Heather Graham brilliant with bringing this events to life and so accurately too!! I didn't know much about the Florida civil war, or what the Seminole have suffered. I only knew minor details. Heather Graham is from Florida, and she definitely researched very well for this book. It can be heart wrenching to read a story like this, because of the setting. Its a war setting, literally. This is right before the civil war between the states. The military of the United States, are being more determined to get the seminole out of Florida and out west. But the Seminole are a stubborn people, this is their home and they fight with it even in the blood of their warriors, women and children. What was the hardest to get through with this story was the brutality against the women and most especially children. (think babies heads bashed in) that is how brutal the military was. We have our main villain Michael Warren, now he is one piece of work. He is pretty much the insigator of the brutality against the Seminole. Who only want to survive and not leave the wilds of Florida. But Warren is determined to exterminate them in awful ways. We also see another danger with Teela and James being together. Because Teela is Warren's daughter and to many of the Seminole, she is their enemy too. So we have that added dilemma in addition to everything else going on. But there is still some silver linings that happen too. There are moments between James and Teela that are light and fun and once they get past their issues, their bond thrives. My favorite part was when they spend some time together in the wilds of Florida, hidden away. Making love, swimming together and enjoying what little peace they can find. We also get some unique characters added in. I really liked James' brother and sister in law (who are the MC of the first book). They do what they can to stay neutral, but still help James and Teela when they are needed most. I loved the way Heather Graham swept me away in this epic love story of two lovers who face insurmountable odds and conquer in the end!!
The Cover
I absolutely adore GREEN!! And the cover really gives off the right atmosphere for the story. Love the pelican.
Overall View
Captive is a feiry and sensual romance that takes you on an adventure through the wilds of Florida, to passion and desire, epic and a love to fight for!!! SWEEPS YOU AWAY!
[foogallery id="21197"]
March 24, 2019
NOPE. I HAD A FEELING THIS ONE JUST WOULDN'T DO JUST BY THE PAIRING OF CHARACTERS. I MEAN THE WAY THE CHARACTERS INTERACTED AND TREATED EACH OTHER WAS SAME AS THE FIRST BOOK BUT THIS ONE WAS LESS ENDEARING...MAINLY BECAUSE I JUST FELT BAD THAT RUNNING BEAR HAS HIS STORY WITH ANOTHER WOMAN.
HERO is the half brother of Jarrett and unlike his older White Brother, he's more impulsive and brought up amongst the Indian that he's more like the Reds instead. When he lost his wife and youngest daughter to yellow fever, he was near inconsolable and I felt sorry for him because Naomi was a nice woman. However, I always felt James despite his love for his living daughter Jennifer...didn't seem much involved in her life no thanks to the war. When he meets the enemy's stepdaughter in his brother's home, their attraction was instant and began a series of love-hate fuckings and make out sessions between the two. He wants her but can't be with her. He fucks her but asks her to marry another man. The whole scenario was just too tumultuous and while I liked the angst the outcome was predictable. I just can't respect a man who can't make up his mind on what he want and clearly he has some issues.
HEROINE is a typical Heather Graham cardboard cut out and I didn't like her as much as Tara, because she just didn't appeal to me. Yes, that was just it and while I want to like her...i just can't help wondering if she was taking Naomi's place. LOL. But, she's a good lady who just wants some peace of mind since her step father was a hated enemy who killed Reds and was pretty ruthless too as he beats her and forces her into marriages she wants no part of. She has a hard life too in a way after losing her mom.
OVERALL it was more like a bumbling story between the two. I don't like them as a couple no. I'd rather still root for Jarrett and Tara. These two...just seemed all over the place. Can't appreciate their relationship here. And...not to mention it's also filled with Graham's typical arrogant male hero who is just plain mean with the heroine. As much as a masochist I am for romances, this one was just a NO NO for me.
HERO is the half brother of Jarrett and unlike his older White Brother, he's more impulsive and brought up amongst the Indian that he's more like the Reds instead. When he lost his wife and youngest daughter to yellow fever, he was near inconsolable and I felt sorry for him because Naomi was a nice woman. However, I always felt James despite his love for his living daughter Jennifer...didn't seem much involved in her life no thanks to the war. When he meets the enemy's stepdaughter in his brother's home, their attraction was instant and began a series of love-hate fuckings and make out sessions between the two. He wants her but can't be with her. He fucks her but asks her to marry another man. The whole scenario was just too tumultuous and while I liked the angst the outcome was predictable. I just can't respect a man who can't make up his mind on what he want and clearly he has some issues.
HEROINE is a typical Heather Graham cardboard cut out and I didn't like her as much as Tara, because she just didn't appeal to me. Yes, that was just it and while I want to like her...i just can't help wondering if she was taking Naomi's place. LOL. But, she's a good lady who just wants some peace of mind since her step father was a hated enemy who killed Reds and was pretty ruthless too as he beats her and forces her into marriages she wants no part of. She has a hard life too in a way after losing her mom.
OVERALL it was more like a bumbling story between the two. I don't like them as a couple no. I'd rather still root for Jarrett and Tara. These two...just seemed all over the place. Can't appreciate their relationship here. And...not to mention it's also filled with Graham's typical arrogant male hero who is just plain mean with the heroine. As much as a masochist I am for romances, this one was just a NO NO for me.
August 1, 2020
I could look past the dislike the two had for each other and the long drawn out inner monologues and length conversations about the war. I couldn’t with the romanticized rape. Let’s just be blunt and honest. The first three sex scenes were straight rape with pretty frilly words from the author to make it seem like romantic passion and even then that wasn’t even done well. “Her eyes were shut tight, her skin so pale, and body so still. I would think her dead if not for her breathing” this is after he angrily and “passionately” took her virginity. Then afterwards blamed her for one and forced her again. wtf! I don’t see anything romance book like about this rape and war story. I stop shortly after that .
August 14, 2023
This review is for the entire series.
Heather Graham is an incredible storyteller and her Florida Civil War series of six books is riveting, full of passion and rich historical details.
The first two books, Runaway and Captive, take place during the Seminole Wars, mid 1830s and the heroes are two brothers, Jarrett and James McKenzie who has a Seminole mother. Both wealthy landowners. Jarrett wins Tara, the heroine, in a poker game in New Orleans.
The rest of the series is about four of their adult children and is set during the Civil War. All the romances mirror the intensity and battles of these wars… they are enemies to lovers… especially during the Civil War books when the McKenzies are divided in loyalty … Union or the South.
This series has much more historical detail compared to Graham’s earlier series about the Camerons… Florida is her home state and was the breadbasket of the Confederacy. At times the actual romances are almost a backstory .., in one book they hero and heroine only meet sporadically until the end, as the battles in the North raged around them. There’s plenty of blood and gore, tragedy, high stakes adventures, all surrounding sex scenes full of slightly purple prose. The state of Florida plays a starring role along with the splendid McKenzie clan who all appear in the final book as the author ties all the loose ends together.
Recommend if you’re interested in reading HRs heavy on history and lighter on the number of pages for romance. Yes, I loved the series!
Heather Graham is an incredible storyteller and her Florida Civil War series of six books is riveting, full of passion and rich historical details.
The first two books, Runaway and Captive, take place during the Seminole Wars, mid 1830s and the heroes are two brothers, Jarrett and James McKenzie who has a Seminole mother. Both wealthy landowners. Jarrett wins Tara, the heroine, in a poker game in New Orleans.
The rest of the series is about four of their adult children and is set during the Civil War. All the romances mirror the intensity and battles of these wars… they are enemies to lovers… especially during the Civil War books when the McKenzies are divided in loyalty … Union or the South.
This series has much more historical detail compared to Graham’s earlier series about the Camerons… Florida is her home state and was the breadbasket of the Confederacy. At times the actual romances are almost a backstory .., in one book they hero and heroine only meet sporadically until the end, as the battles in the North raged around them. There’s plenty of blood and gore, tragedy, high stakes adventures, all surrounding sex scenes full of slightly purple prose. The state of Florida plays a starring role along with the splendid McKenzie clan who all appear in the final book as the author ties all the loose ends together.
Recommend if you’re interested in reading HRs heavy on history and lighter on the number of pages for romance. Yes, I loved the series!
August 12, 2022
She is made to go to the Florida Territory by her evil stepfather who had planned for her to marry a person he has picked but instead she meets a half-breed Seminole native and soon finds herself in love with him. This book is about their love for each other and how the wars between the whites and natives affect their lives as well as others. Lots of historical facts within the storyline. Overall a good and interesting read.
March 19, 2023
4.5. (inglés). Muy bonito, casi demasiado tumultuoso el ir y venir entre James y Teela, sin tener en cuenta de que eran tiempos de guerra y tenían que definir sus lealtades. Al final ganó el amor. Aunque el final del libro fue algo apresurado me gustó que de una vez por todas Warren desapareciera. El epílogo sucede unos cinco años después del inicio del mismo. ...
Narrado en tercera persona.
Narrado en tercera persona.
November 25, 2019
I enjoy the tropes of a well written bodice ripper, and this was solid for the genre. The writing is strong, not as repetitive as most, and the tension felt real and not just the author trying to play “connect the romance trope dots.” And bonus, the historical details were solid.
February 27, 2020
James's story
It is just before dawn that I sit here writing a review of Captive. Riveting and highly sensual, the relationship between James and Teela is breathtaking. I am so overwhelmed by the depth of their relationship - I am without words
It is just before dawn that I sit here writing a review of Captive. Riveting and highly sensual, the relationship between James and Teela is breathtaking. I am so overwhelmed by the depth of their relationship - I am without words
March 13, 2020
This was such an exceptionally enjoyable story, that I will look for further novels by Ms. Graham. In particular, I look forward to someday enjoying the other two novels in this series to become available on Audible.
May 4, 2018
I enjoyed reading. There is a lot of going back and forth of the same problems. A lot of historical details of the time.
November 1, 2018
Melodramatic, slow moving, not worth the read.
October 20, 2019
It was good and not the typical plot you find in Historical Fiction. There were times where it felt looonnngg.
March 5, 2021
A Fantastic Book
What a story with so much history and suffering on both sides. This is the second book on the series and was a fantastic story. I am on to the third book.
What a story with so much history and suffering on both sides. This is the second book on the series and was a fantastic story. I am on to the third book.
April 16, 2022
James and Teela story
I love how Heather Graham brings the characters to life. She enter twines them from book to book. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I love how Heather Graham brings the characters to life. She enter twines them from book to book. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
November 9, 2024
3.5 stars.
December 13, 2024
I love history and even though the story was fiction, the story felt real. The war and the relationship and real powerful and even though sone mistakes were made, I loved the story.
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