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Scandalous Adventures at Sea #3
Corsets & Crossbones
An action-packed historical romance filled with treasure hunts, sword fights, and moonlight kisses! At twenty years old, Brooke Cunningham should already be married to a wealthy older man of means, position, and power. Instead, she's refusing rouge and powder, sassing potential suitors, and staring out her window at the sea, wishing for something more. Enter Captain Charlie Colt, a branded pirate with charm dripping from his lips the way rubies drip from Brooke's earrings. Charlie seeks revenge on those who forced him into this life of crime and Brooke wants to escape from a life she has labeled as mundane. When Brooke finds an old treasure map, Charlie recognizes its value, and they set off on an adventure in order to acquire it. But they aren't the only ones in search of the treasure. If they aren't careful, Brooke and Charlie could face the bottom of the sea, if the gallows don't claim them first.
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 26, 2013
58 people are currently reading
477 people want to read
About the author
Heather C. Myers
121 books761 followersFull disclosure: I am an acquired taste. I'm a typical blonde Orange County suburbanite who says 'like' more than necessary, laughs loud and probably obnoxiously, and loves to dance in the rain. I'm a 23 year old college graduate with more than a few tricks up my sleeve, and I also happen to be a pretty big Ducks fan. Oh, and I'm a writer. Like, for real.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
September 29, 2015
2.5 stars
*Sigh* I really wanted to like this book. The cover was cute, the title was catchy, even if both felt a bit contemporary. Maybe I should have gotten a clue from that alone but I really wanted to read a romance with a pirate hero and this one was a freebie.
I dove in and immediately had a really tough time with this book. I nearly didn't make it through the prologue. I continued to read, despite my frustrations with the style of writing and the less than stellar editing. But I am not a DNF kind of reader. It was slow going but I was determined to keep reading. At about 4% I had to stop and re-evaluate. I decided the contemporary words and phrases were so out of place, if I was going to continue, I would have to take a different approach. I had to view this as a spoof of sorts, with anachronisms as well as constant unrealistic events and conversations (for the time). With that in mind, an historic setting with contemporary writing, I plugged along as best I could.
The story line was decent enough; it had potential that was just never fully realized. Descriptions of settings, appearances, etc. left a lot to be desired, although much (almost too much) detail was given to Most scenes and situations felt rushed, incomplete or just unnatural. Editing was lacking (including frequent malapropisms). The MCs, Captain Charlie Colt and Brooke Cunningham were ok, and I did like them enough to keep reading, but the author didn't provide much depth.
All in all, a nice light romance that was pleasant enough so I rounded my rating up. I think it's a generous rating, considering the editing and the frustrations I encountered with the style of writing. I know there are other readers who will appreciate this author's other books and I'm happy for them but I have to admit I likely will not read another of her books.
*Sigh* I really wanted to like this book. The cover was cute, the title was catchy, even if both felt a bit contemporary. Maybe I should have gotten a clue from that alone but I really wanted to read a romance with a pirate hero and this one was a freebie.
I dove in and immediately had a really tough time with this book. I nearly didn't make it through the prologue. I continued to read, despite my frustrations with the style of writing and the less than stellar editing. But I am not a DNF kind of reader. It was slow going but I was determined to keep reading. At about 4% I had to stop and re-evaluate. I decided the contemporary words and phrases were so out of place, if I was going to continue, I would have to take a different approach. I had to view this as a spoof of sorts, with anachronisms as well as constant unrealistic events and conversations (for the time). With that in mind, an historic setting with contemporary writing, I plugged along as best I could.
The story line was decent enough; it had potential that was just never fully realized. Descriptions of settings, appearances, etc. left a lot to be desired, although much (almost too much) detail was given to Most scenes and situations felt rushed, incomplete or just unnatural. Editing was lacking (including frequent malapropisms). The MCs, Captain Charlie Colt and Brooke Cunningham were ok, and I did like them enough to keep reading, but the author didn't provide much depth.
All in all, a nice light romance that was pleasant enough so I rounded my rating up. I think it's a generous rating, considering the editing and the frustrations I encountered with the style of writing. I know there are other readers who will appreciate this author's other books and I'm happy for them but I have to admit I likely will not read another of her books.
October 13, 2015
Captain Charlie Colt is a pirate with a good heart, but don't let anyone know it or else it would ruin his fierce reputation. Brooke Cunningham is an educated daughter of a merchant who wants to marry for love not power or position. She wants to escape her boring life and Charlie does not have to do much charming to convince her to come with him. Pirates are vying for an old treasure map which Brooke happens to find, and they're off in a race to find their prize. Except it seems most the world is against them, and they could be lost as the treasure or swing from the gallows if their enemies have their way.
Charlie Colt is the highlight of this tale for me. He's charming, brave, and scrumptious. A man with morals forced into piracy by a more powerful man with none. And being a ladies' man, he swears he will not give his heart to anyone until he meets Brooke. I do love it when heroes struggle with love.
This would have been a much better story if it was tightened up. A lot of tension was lost in repetitive lengthy descriptions and dialogue, and an overly complicated riddle to solve. I was hoping for a fast-paced, rowdy pirate tale, but this is much slower and far more properly Victorian than I expected. A clean romance can be just as compelling as one with sex, but I was not enticed by Brooke and Charlie's.
Charlie Colt is the highlight of this tale for me. He's charming, brave, and scrumptious. A man with morals forced into piracy by a more powerful man with none. And being a ladies' man, he swears he will not give his heart to anyone until he meets Brooke. I do love it when heroes struggle with love.
This would have been a much better story if it was tightened up. A lot of tension was lost in repetitive lengthy descriptions and dialogue, and an overly complicated riddle to solve. I was hoping for a fast-paced, rowdy pirate tale, but this is much slower and far more properly Victorian than I expected. A clean romance can be just as compelling as one with sex, but I was not enticed by Brooke and Charlie's.
February 2, 2016
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
3.5*
Full review: http://pepitamagica.blogspot.pt/2016/...
A book with pirates, treasure and romance all together, how could I resist?
This book edition, for what I understood from the newsletter I received from the author, orthographically and grammatically and story wise was an improvement from the first edition. The first part is very good, I had no reason to complain about it, however… the story had something and I’ll explain it in just a bit.
(...)
In this book, there’s a treasure hunt with a few similarities with Pirates of the Caribbean, but some of its magic gets lost in it.
(...)
For me, above all, there was a lack of chemistry and romance between Brooke and Charlie – which is a pity because if there was more of it I would have liked it much more. Although this was important for me, the mystery, the treasure hunt and the trust between the two main characters was a very significant for me, even though sometimes it seemed a bit out of proportion for two people who knew each other for a very short amount of time.
In conclusion, a book that has maybe more mystery and action, than romance, but that also attracts (in a certain measure) romance fans like me.
3.5*
Full review: http://pepitamagica.blogspot.pt/2016/...
A book with pirates, treasure and romance all together, how could I resist?
This book edition, for what I understood from the newsletter I received from the author, orthographically and grammatically and story wise was an improvement from the first edition. The first part is very good, I had no reason to complain about it, however… the story had something and I’ll explain it in just a bit.
(...)
In this book, there’s a treasure hunt with a few similarities with Pirates of the Caribbean, but some of its magic gets lost in it.
(...)
For me, above all, there was a lack of chemistry and romance between Brooke and Charlie – which is a pity because if there was more of it I would have liked it much more. Although this was important for me, the mystery, the treasure hunt and the trust between the two main characters was a very significant for me, even though sometimes it seemed a bit out of proportion for two people who knew each other for a very short amount of time.
In conclusion, a book that has maybe more mystery and action, than romance, but that also attracts (in a certain measure) romance fans like me.
November 28, 2013
A Pirates of the Caribbean-like tale, filled with rogues, romance, adventure and (of course) treasure, Corsets & Crossbones is a book which will capture your heart...unless Captain Colt captures it first!!
July 11, 2017
I loved this historical romance for the adventure, sexy pirates and for Brooke! She's a fun heroine and Captain Charlie is downright sexy. A must read and highly recommend!
My Rating: 5 stars
My Rating: 5 stars
October 31, 2015
Corsets & Crossbones Heather C. Myers
Reviewed by SFF Dragon
If this was a film I'd happily watch it over and over, but I seriously struggled to finish reading the book.
I love pirate movies and swashbucklers, and have avidly watched them for more than 50 years. From Errol Flynn and Burt Lancaster to Geena Davis and Johnny Depp, Captain Blood, The Scarlet Buccaneer, Cut-Throat Island, Pirates of the Caribbean and a hundred more, I love them all, but it's not really a genre I like to read. 'Corsets & Crossbones' by Heather C. Myers isn't a book I'd normally have even looked at, let alone bought, but it was chosen as the October book of the month by my reading club, so, despite a lot of misgivings, I eventually dived in and read it.
I was pleasantly surprised, up to a point. The story line was pretty good and if this was a film I'd happily watch it time and again, but as a book, and it's quite a long book, it left me groaning under the weight of all the mistakes. From bad spelling, incorrect words and use of grammar to major continuity errors which seriously ruined the flow of the story as well as my concentration, by the time I finished reading, which I very nearly didn't, but kept forcing myself to pick it up again, it had taken me all month in bits and pieces. Heather C. Myers is a good story teller and I liked the plot, but this book is in dire need of a good proof-reading, even if it's just by friends and family. I'm in two minds about what rating to give this book. For the story I'd give 3 stars, but there are so many errors that completely ruin it, I'd have to give it 2 stars. Under normal circumstances, I don't post reviews for books if I can't give at least 3 stars, but the whole point of the reading club is to read and review, so, with strong reservations, 3 stars it is.
Reviewed by SFF Dragon
If this was a film I'd happily watch it over and over, but I seriously struggled to finish reading the book.
I love pirate movies and swashbucklers, and have avidly watched them for more than 50 years. From Errol Flynn and Burt Lancaster to Geena Davis and Johnny Depp, Captain Blood, The Scarlet Buccaneer, Cut-Throat Island, Pirates of the Caribbean and a hundred more, I love them all, but it's not really a genre I like to read. 'Corsets & Crossbones' by Heather C. Myers isn't a book I'd normally have even looked at, let alone bought, but it was chosen as the October book of the month by my reading club, so, despite a lot of misgivings, I eventually dived in and read it.
I was pleasantly surprised, up to a point. The story line was pretty good and if this was a film I'd happily watch it time and again, but as a book, and it's quite a long book, it left me groaning under the weight of all the mistakes. From bad spelling, incorrect words and use of grammar to major continuity errors which seriously ruined the flow of the story as well as my concentration, by the time I finished reading, which I very nearly didn't, but kept forcing myself to pick it up again, it had taken me all month in bits and pieces. Heather C. Myers is a good story teller and I liked the plot, but this book is in dire need of a good proof-reading, even if it's just by friends and family. I'm in two minds about what rating to give this book. For the story I'd give 3 stars, but there are so many errors that completely ruin it, I'd have to give it 2 stars. Under normal circumstances, I don't post reviews for books if I can't give at least 3 stars, but the whole point of the reading club is to read and review, so, with strong reservations, 3 stars it is.
December 12, 2013
The book started out fine with Captain Charlie Colt, a noble efficient man, being forced into becoming a pirate. Though not as eccentric or enjoyable as our favorite pirate Captain Jack Sparrow, Colt is likeable. Even the actions take place in a very "Pirates of the Caribbean" style with runaway heroines, rogues, treasure hunts, cannibals and what not.
But it ends too soon. After that, the plot takes a turn and our heroine Brooke stumbles into a revelation, that of the true identity of Shakespeare, very much reminding one of the 2011 political thriller and historical drama film "Anonymous".
The book fails to retain the excitement and adventure with which it started and the ending is nothing but ordinary. Even the narrative slacks towards the end with descriptions of day-to-day activities.
This book could have been a whole lot better.
But it ends too soon. After that, the plot takes a turn and our heroine Brooke stumbles into a revelation, that of the true identity of Shakespeare, very much reminding one of the 2011 political thriller and historical drama film "Anonymous".
The book fails to retain the excitement and adventure with which it started and the ending is nothing but ordinary. Even the narrative slacks towards the end with descriptions of day-to-day activities.
This book could have been a whole lot better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2015
For anyone who has watched Pirates of the Caribbean this book will be shockingly familiar. It's basically the same story line except if Elizabeth Swan was to fall for Jack Sparrow.
The author skips over a shocking amount of detail during pivotal moments, especially those involving a character dying or if she somehow gets stuck at a particular plot point. For example, when Lord Sutherland and company suddenly vanish and later it's surmised that they were abducted by cannibals. But during the scene in which they vanish there is no clue, no sound, not hint that they were taken away rather than just leaving on their own.
In other portions there is too much detail. I do not need, I do not think the book needed, almost an entire page dedicated to describing the residence of the Governor of Port Royal when it's not important to the story.
The author skips over a shocking amount of detail during pivotal moments, especially those involving a character dying or if she somehow gets stuck at a particular plot point. For example, when Lord Sutherland and company suddenly vanish and later it's surmised that they were abducted by cannibals. But during the scene in which they vanish there is no clue, no sound, not hint that they were taken away rather than just leaving on their own.
In other portions there is too much detail. I do not need, I do not think the book needed, almost an entire page dedicated to describing the residence of the Governor of Port Royal when it's not important to the story.
October 5, 2015
In a classic case of you get what you paid for, I managed to finish this 1.5 star book because I do so love a swashbuckling hero. However, this mess of a book included so many anachronisms, that I'm amazed anyone reads the whole thing.
"in the zone," "you're a downer" and a dozen other contemporary phrases haunted me.
Then the whole Edward de Vere/Shakespeare thread was ridiculous-- almost as ridiculous as the weak plot devices thrown in to "save the day" whenever our hero or heroine were up against some "no way out" situation. One word-- canibals-- just plain silly and beyond convenient!!
Such a shame because the potential for a really fun read was there... But maybe just in my own imagination.
"in the zone," "you're a downer" and a dozen other contemporary phrases haunted me.
Then the whole Edward de Vere/Shakespeare thread was ridiculous-- almost as ridiculous as the weak plot devices thrown in to "save the day" whenever our hero or heroine were up against some "no way out" situation. One word-- canibals-- just plain silly and beyond convenient!!
Such a shame because the potential for a really fun read was there... But maybe just in my own imagination.
July 13, 2017
3.5 stars. Corsets & Crossbones is the third book in the Swashbuckling Romance series. While this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. There isn't a traditional cliffhanger but the storyline is open-ended for the next book in the series. (I read this book as part of the Sand, Ships & Scallywags set that includes books #1-3 in this series.) There is violence and the sex is hot and steamy so 18+.
The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat that info here. The author managed to describe the main characters Brooke and Charlie and the settings well. The storyline is average but it still was a good read.
I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author including more in this series.
The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat that info here. The author managed to describe the main characters Brooke and Charlie and the settings well. The storyline is average but it still was a good read.
I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author including more in this series.
October 20, 2015
This book received the particular rating because I did not finish it. I enjoyed the concept, some of the one liners, and a little bit the titles similarities to another swashbuckling adventure we all know and love. I did not like the POV changes and it was the main reason I did not finish it. I also had a problem staying in the story because of the use of modern phrases that threw me out of the story. The author is a decent story teller and I think she has the potential for some amazing books but this was not that book for me.
June 6, 2017
Captain Charlie Colt and a few of his men waited for the master of the house so they could conduct their business. Charlie gazed at a painting of a ship on the rough sea during a storm. A young girl’s voice beside him commented on the sound of the rain and how she loved that painting which let her dream of adventures. Then her father arrived and ushered the men to their meeting as Charlie told young Brooke that it was a pleasure to meet her. Charlie made a sound deal with Master Cunningham for his rice shipment and then left.
Because of his excellent business skills, Charlie was summoned to Lord Sutherland of the East India Company, where he was offered a promotion and an entire fleet to command. This time, his cargo would also include slaves. This was not acceptable to Charlie who did not believe in slavery, so he graciously refused the promotion. But Lord Sutherland had his men grab Charlie in preparation to branding him with a ‘P’ to identify him as a pirate if he would not do the bidding of the Company. That would prevent him from being able to conduct honorable business dealings going forward. But Charlie would not compromise and he was painfully branded, then imprisoned so he could watch his beloved ship sunk. A new life now faced him.
I enjoyed this book. Captain Colt was a good man who would not compromise his morals. He was forced into another way of life, but he didn’t let corruption destroy him. He has many more experiences coming, and a reconnection to the past which will change his life. The reader won’t want to miss it!
Because of his excellent business skills, Charlie was summoned to Lord Sutherland of the East India Company, where he was offered a promotion and an entire fleet to command. This time, his cargo would also include slaves. This was not acceptable to Charlie who did not believe in slavery, so he graciously refused the promotion. But Lord Sutherland had his men grab Charlie in preparation to branding him with a ‘P’ to identify him as a pirate if he would not do the bidding of the Company. That would prevent him from being able to conduct honorable business dealings going forward. But Charlie would not compromise and he was painfully branded, then imprisoned so he could watch his beloved ship sunk. A new life now faced him.
I enjoyed this book. Captain Colt was a good man who would not compromise his morals. He was forced into another way of life, but he didn’t let corruption destroy him. He has many more experiences coming, and a reconnection to the past which will change his life. The reader won’t want to miss it!
July 2, 2017
Do you like glaring anachronisms?
Do you prefer caricatures to characters?
Do you think a collection of clichés can replace plot?
Then this could be the story for you!
Personally, I was entranced by the unique and interesting use of the English language (swarm of trees, anyone?).
I can only think of four explanations for the quality of this novel.
1. My first thought was that English is not the writer’s first language. That would certainly explain the multitude of not quite right word choices.
2. This story was not originally written in English and was then run through Google translate. This might be the reason for so many word repetitions in close proximity. Let me make up an example for example to exemplify.
3. This is a NaNoWriMo project. Hence the extensive Shakespearian quotes. It’s all about the word count. Yay quantity over quality.
4. I’ve totally missed the point and this was a parody. In which case the humour didn’t work for me but it might for others.
In any case the editor really let this one slip through to the keeper.
Do you prefer caricatures to characters?
Do you think a collection of clichés can replace plot?
Then this could be the story for you!
Personally, I was entranced by the unique and interesting use of the English language (swarm of trees, anyone?).
I can only think of four explanations for the quality of this novel.
1. My first thought was that English is not the writer’s first language. That would certainly explain the multitude of not quite right word choices.
2. This story was not originally written in English and was then run through Google translate. This might be the reason for so many word repetitions in close proximity. Let me make up an example for example to exemplify.
3. This is a NaNoWriMo project. Hence the extensive Shakespearian quotes. It’s all about the word count. Yay quantity over quality.
4. I’ve totally missed the point and this was a parody. In which case the humour didn’t work for me but it might for others.
In any case the editor really let this one slip through to the keeper.
June 9, 2017
Every time I read one of the books in this series I'm struck with a compelling need to re-watch the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. For the sake of full disclosure, there are errors that an editor or a good beta team should have cleared up. In spite of rolling my eyes into the back of my head when I stumbled across one, I was able to get lost in the adventure and flair of the plot. Charlie and Brooke are quite adorable together. I loved how her innocent zest for life was able to draw in the noble pirate captain and make him believe in a forever kind of future. There's a few plot threads that are left open at the end that I hope will be cleared up in the subsequent books of the series. Since I've read several of them out of order, I've lost track of whether or not I can answer that question.
June 22, 2017
Great book
Loved this book read it in 1day I couldn't put it down captain Charles colt was so cute and Brooke was so sweet and funny kept my interest I laugh and cried. I was sorry it ended
Loved this book read it in 1day I couldn't put it down captain Charles colt was so cute and Brooke was so sweet and funny kept my interest I laugh and cried. I was sorry it ended
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August 17, 2021"She’s too young to be his wife, Charlie thought to himself. Although who am I to judge if she is? He smirked to himself, his two gold teeth twinkling in the limited light."
This is the ml and the girl is 10...
This is the ml and the girl is 10...
November 2, 2017
This was an ok read. There is a fair amount abrupt change in perspective. This is a fairly clean read. Overall enjoyable; just not great, but not bad.
January 14, 2016
As everyone knows by now, I am a YA Paranormal fan, but from time-to-time, you can catch me reading outside my comfort zone....
I must start off by saying that I have never read anything by this author before. The cover of the book and the synopsis alone captured my attention and made very curious about the book. WOW, this book was amazing, I absolutely couldn't put it down!!! I love the way this author brought this book to life. It's nothing I have read before, and it was a refreshing and fun read. The Characters are awesome and they are lovable and funny, plus the story line is very addicting. Awe the thrill of pirates, ball gowns, the wide open sea and comedy..... It's an adventurer's dream come true!!
Captain Charlie Colt. I loved how this story started off with Charlie. I find him charming and quite witty, plus he can be crude and new how talk anybody into or out of anything. I love how he is made out to be a pirate, and a swindler, but is respected by many and hated by others. I also love his fascination with Brooke Cunningham from the beginning at age 10 and how his love for her flourishes through the book.
Brooke Cunningham. Awe, Brooke is a magnificent character. I love her wit and charisma and how much of a dare devil she could be, because in this time period, normal girls did not do half the things Brooke does. Girls are suppose to be regal and get married to the right suitor of the father's choosing, but not Brooke. She wants adventure, excitement, and be desperately sailing out to sea. I love how she played hard to get a first with Charlie and how her love grew for him throughout the story.
This is a spectacular, and might I add, tastefully well written, Historical Fiction mixed with pirates and romance. I am a sucker for this time period, because I fall every time for the corsets and dresses. I also must add that the title was a perfect choice for this story too. I highly recommend this story to all for enjoys adventure, excitement and romance!!
The author provided me with a digital ARC copy of the book for review purposes only. No remuneration was exchanged.
I must start off by saying that I have never read anything by this author before. The cover of the book and the synopsis alone captured my attention and made very curious about the book. WOW, this book was amazing, I absolutely couldn't put it down!!! I love the way this author brought this book to life. It's nothing I have read before, and it was a refreshing and fun read. The Characters are awesome and they are lovable and funny, plus the story line is very addicting. Awe the thrill of pirates, ball gowns, the wide open sea and comedy..... It's an adventurer's dream come true!!
Captain Charlie Colt. I loved how this story started off with Charlie. I find him charming and quite witty, plus he can be crude and new how talk anybody into or out of anything. I love how he is made out to be a pirate, and a swindler, but is respected by many and hated by others. I also love his fascination with Brooke Cunningham from the beginning at age 10 and how his love for her flourishes through the book.
Brooke Cunningham. Awe, Brooke is a magnificent character. I love her wit and charisma and how much of a dare devil she could be, because in this time period, normal girls did not do half the things Brooke does. Girls are suppose to be regal and get married to the right suitor of the father's choosing, but not Brooke. She wants adventure, excitement, and be desperately sailing out to sea. I love how she played hard to get a first with Charlie and how her love grew for him throughout the story.
This is a spectacular, and might I add, tastefully well written, Historical Fiction mixed with pirates and romance. I am a sucker for this time period, because I fall every time for the corsets and dresses. I also must add that the title was a perfect choice for this story too. I highly recommend this story to all for enjoys adventure, excitement and romance!!
The author provided me with a digital ARC copy of the book for review purposes only. No remuneration was exchanged.
April 15, 2019
When the book opens, Captain Charlie Colt is on the right side of the law as a ship's captain for the East India Company. Upon returning to England, his boss offers him a promotion to lieutenant, but to accept this promotion, he must traffic in slaves. He refuses, as he is morally opposed to this. His boss is unwilling to let him remain simply a captain within the company, and brands him as a pirate and fires him. In that moment, Charlie comes to a variety of realizations and ultimately does decide to become a true pirate to seek revenge. The book resumes a few years later when he meets up with a young woman whom he met when she was a young girl while he was still on the right side of the law as he and his crew are pillaging her father's house.
Brooke is not a girl like most young ladies. Still unwed at twenty, much to her father's chagrin, she finds her life to be mundane and actively tries to dissuade suitors. When she finds a treasure map, she and Charlie decide to go off in search of the treasure.
Will Brooke and Charlie find the treasure? Do others know about it? What dangers await them? Will their lives be in jeopardy? Will they fall for each other?
I quite enjoyed the humor in this story. Brooke is a fascinating character. The glimpse of her as a child was quite revealing, helping us understand her and her actions better when we meet her again as a grown-up. It was interesting to watch Charlie in that morally defining moment that caused him to become branded as a pirate. He does change dramatically afterward, and some of it seemed a little hard to believe given what we had seen of him before. I think, too, the author should have used the term “kohl-rimmed” less often to describe his eyes; we get it; he wears eyeliner!
If you enjoyed the other books in this series of pirate romance, you will most likely enjoy this installment of the series.
I received a free advance copy of this book, but this did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
Brooke is not a girl like most young ladies. Still unwed at twenty, much to her father's chagrin, she finds her life to be mundane and actively tries to dissuade suitors. When she finds a treasure map, she and Charlie decide to go off in search of the treasure.
Will Brooke and Charlie find the treasure? Do others know about it? What dangers await them? Will their lives be in jeopardy? Will they fall for each other?
I quite enjoyed the humor in this story. Brooke is a fascinating character. The glimpse of her as a child was quite revealing, helping us understand her and her actions better when we meet her again as a grown-up. It was interesting to watch Charlie in that morally defining moment that caused him to become branded as a pirate. He does change dramatically afterward, and some of it seemed a little hard to believe given what we had seen of him before. I think, too, the author should have used the term “kohl-rimmed” less often to describe his eyes; we get it; he wears eyeliner!
If you enjoyed the other books in this series of pirate romance, you will most likely enjoy this installment of the series.
I received a free advance copy of this book, but this did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
January 6, 2016
I love the swashbuckling pirate romance like any other hot blooded lady and I decided to try this one after I read a few reviews and while I love the romance and naughtiness I read that this one really was not too sexy in the blatant way but more from a romantic tension side. Which ladies do not like romantic tension??
That said I downloaded and read the book and I was so caught up in the exciting back and forths. The characters travelled to numerous islands and destinations with a truly surprising theory regarding one of the world's most prolific authors.... That I leave for the reader... no spoilers.
While I would admit to some frustration with the characters not admitting or acting on their attractions until very late and then it was over too soon, so the romantic tension would have to suffice if you are a romancer but truly so much happens in this book and you are pulled to and fro all over the Caribbean you truly are quite satisfied, at least I was and I am a romancer.
To those who scored this one star... I get it, you are a stickler for proper chronological truths per the era the story is written in but really this book while it edged boundaries and crossed some it was a good read.
While (h) Brooke may have been totally against the cloth of that time regarding women and their roles and her ability to move about freely and (H) Charlie not being recognized although he had distinctive features or rather embellishments then just take it for what it is a good fictional story.
The author put some thought into her theories and I think it was written for fictional enjoyment and it aced that. The story and characters were full and gave the reader a good story where we were able to have emotional rides and exciting ones. So yeah ... I am a fan!
That said I downloaded and read the book and I was so caught up in the exciting back and forths. The characters travelled to numerous islands and destinations with a truly surprising theory regarding one of the world's most prolific authors.... That I leave for the reader... no spoilers.
While I would admit to some frustration with the characters not admitting or acting on their attractions until very late and then it was over too soon, so the romantic tension would have to suffice if you are a romancer but truly so much happens in this book and you are pulled to and fro all over the Caribbean you truly are quite satisfied, at least I was and I am a romancer.
To those who scored this one star... I get it, you are a stickler for proper chronological truths per the era the story is written in but really this book while it edged boundaries and crossed some it was a good read.
While (h) Brooke may have been totally against the cloth of that time regarding women and their roles and her ability to move about freely and (H) Charlie not being recognized although he had distinctive features or rather embellishments then just take it for what it is a good fictional story.
The author put some thought into her theories and I think it was written for fictional enjoyment and it aced that. The story and characters were full and gave the reader a good story where we were able to have emotional rides and exciting ones. So yeah ... I am a fan!
December 4, 2015
This author needs a better editor, or for someone who knows what they're doing to proofread her work. Incorrect pronouns are used often which can make for some confusing dialog. She also used the word errand when she clearly meant errant, there's only one letter difference but they have very different meanings. There were several similar instances of using the wrong word, but that was the first example that came to mind. Either get a dictionary, or don't use a word if you don't know what it means!!
The romance aspect of this book is almost non-existent, and I'm currently about 85% of the way through the book. The character development is poor, and the plot is slow and gets especially bogged down in several places. The hero is in love with the heroine, but spends the first 60% of the book trying to not be in love with her and banging other women. This lessens his likability for me. There are also some massive plot holes, too much description in places that are unimportant to the story, and not enough description in places that really need it. It's like listening to a drunk friend tell a story.
Okay, slogged through the last few chapters, which did not change my opinion at all. The ending felt stilted and anti-climactic. There's about one glaring error per page in this book, it's extremely distracting. I definitely won't be reading any other offerings from Heather C. Myers in the future, as this book has been a huge disappointment.
The romance aspect of this book is almost non-existent, and I'm currently about 85% of the way through the book. The character development is poor, and the plot is slow and gets especially bogged down in several places. The hero is in love with the heroine, but spends the first 60% of the book trying to not be in love with her and banging other women. This lessens his likability for me. There are also some massive plot holes, too much description in places that are unimportant to the story, and not enough description in places that really need it. It's like listening to a drunk friend tell a story.
Okay, slogged through the last few chapters, which did not change my opinion at all. The ending felt stilted and anti-climactic. There's about one glaring error per page in this book, it's extremely distracting. I definitely won't be reading any other offerings from Heather C. Myers in the future, as this book has been a huge disappointment.
December 18, 2015
1.5 stars
I actually did like this novel, even though it was quite derivative. The main reason for my low rating was the poor writing. This book could have used a few more editing sessions--words added in the wrong places, misused pronouns, incorrect word usage, and the governor was even mentioned by the wrong name towards the end of the book. In addition, the sentences were repetitive throughout the novel; one sentence would basically say the same thing twice, or a noun would be used multiple times in one sentence when a pronoun would have clearly sounded better. The plot was okay, but there were a few holes and abrupt stops, and I felt like the story dragged on way longer than it needed to. I liked the adventure, and I appreciate that there was some romance without inappropriate scenes (though the promiscuous life of a pirate was recounted briefly). As a warning, there was some language.
I actually did like this novel, even though it was quite derivative. The main reason for my low rating was the poor writing. This book could have used a few more editing sessions--words added in the wrong places, misused pronouns, incorrect word usage, and the governor was even mentioned by the wrong name towards the end of the book. In addition, the sentences were repetitive throughout the novel; one sentence would basically say the same thing twice, or a noun would be used multiple times in one sentence when a pronoun would have clearly sounded better. The plot was okay, but there were a few holes and abrupt stops, and I felt like the story dragged on way longer than it needed to. I liked the adventure, and I appreciate that there was some romance without inappropriate scenes (though the promiscuous life of a pirate was recounted briefly). As a warning, there was some language.
September 21, 2016
Brooke Cunningham is the daughter of a wealthy merchant who is being pushed to meet suitable men in order to find a husband - something she finds tedious and boring. Captain Charlie Colt is a pirate with an eye for beauty and the charm to match it even though his first love is the sea. Brooke and Charlie develop an unlikely friendship based on mutual trust before they get into all sorts of scrapes over a treasure map. So will they avoid the gallows, avoid the others that are determined to find the treasure and more importantly will they remain friends even when others seek to separate them?
A lovely story of love against the odds mixed in with tales of the high seas and pirates. I really enjoyed this book and loved the way we all knew who loved who before they had figured it out themselves. Great writing with good descriptions of the people and life with complex emotions that I certainly could feel.
Definitely recommended.
A lovely story of love against the odds mixed in with tales of the high seas and pirates. I really enjoyed this book and loved the way we all knew who loved who before they had figured it out themselves. Great writing with good descriptions of the people and life with complex emotions that I certainly could feel.
Definitely recommended.
September 15, 2015
Alright. I am going to start off by saying that I did not finish reading this. I couldn't and I will tell you why.
This book is in serious need for an editor. In one paragraph alone I counted the use of 'intelligible' (including the varations intelligibly and unintelligible) six times and there's one more two paragraphs away. Seven! And I'm fairly certain all of them were incorrectly used. (I would have allowed the first one but the following five in the SAME PARAGRAPH was too much).
The characters themselves were just odd,with both if them speaking of things I highly doubt would come up in normal conversation
The final straw was the "f" word thrown in randomly. That gave me a pretty good clue that there was probably going to be more later on.
So, please pardon my rant. I respect that other readers really enjoyed this. I did not.
This book is in serious need for an editor. In one paragraph alone I counted the use of 'intelligible' (including the varations intelligibly and unintelligible) six times and there's one more two paragraphs away. Seven! And I'm fairly certain all of them were incorrectly used. (I would have allowed the first one but the following five in the SAME PARAGRAPH was too much).
The characters themselves were just odd,with both if them speaking of things I highly doubt would come up in normal conversation
The final straw was the "f" word thrown in randomly. That gave me a pretty good clue that there was probably going to be more later on.
So, please pardon my rant. I respect that other readers really enjoyed this. I did not.
April 14, 2019
Every time I read one of the books in this series I'm struck with a compelling need to re-watch the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. For the sake of full disclosure, there are errors that an editor or a good beta team should have cleared up. In spite of rolling my eyes into the back of my head when I stumbled across one, I was able to get lost in the adventure and flair of the plot. Charlie and Brooke are quite adorable together. I loved how her innocent zest for life was able to draw in the noble pirate captain and make him believe in a forever kind of future. There's a few plot threads that are left open at the end that I hope will be cleared up in the subsequent books of the series. Since I've read several of them out of order, I've lost track of whether or not I can answer that question.
April 20, 2019
This is dramatic, suspenseful, interesting and entertaining. Charlie is honorable, bold, daring and flirty. Brooke is naive, strong, brave and impulsive. Charlie is only a pirate because he refused to transport slaves. He has been planning his revenge on the man who turned him into a pirate. Brooke is the daughter of the man Charlie last did business with, she was 10 and they connected because of a painting. When Charlie goes back 10 years later, it's to rob him, but he became intrigued by the full grown version of the child he remembered. The next time they see each other he's saving her from the attack on her town. They become friends and allies, and each must survive a series of unfortunate events.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksprout. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksprout. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
January 21, 2016
I really enjoyed Corsets & Crossbones. Charlie Colt is the perfect type of pirate with high intelligence and a heart of gold underneath his cunning, sly, adventurous spirit. Brooke Cunningham is independent, quick-witted, sassy, and very intelligent herself. The two of them are a perfect match and it's a joy to dive into their story in this book.
If you like the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise you will like this book. You'll also like this if you are a fan of Firefly -- especially Captain Mal Reynolds (Nathan Fillion's character) in the TV series. As Captain Charlie Colt reminds me of a mixture Mal with a little bit of Will Turner from PotC thrown in there.
If you like the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise you will like this book. You'll also like this if you are a fan of Firefly -- especially Captain Mal Reynolds (Nathan Fillion's character) in the TV series. As Captain Charlie Colt reminds me of a mixture Mal with a little bit of Will Turner from PotC thrown in there.
August 12, 2017
Corsets & Crossbones is the third book in the Swashbuckling Romance series. While this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. There isn't a traditional cliffhanger but the storyline is open-ended for the next book in the series. (I read this book as part of the Sand, Ships & Scallywags set that includes books #1-3 in this series.) There is violence and the sex is hot and steamy so 18+.
The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat that info here. The author managed to describe the main characters Brooke and Charlie and the settings well. The storyline is average but it still was a good read.
I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author including more in this series.
The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat that info here. The author managed to describe the main characters Brooke and Charlie and the settings well. The storyline is average but it still was a good read.
I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author including more in this series.
November 2, 2015
This is a great pirate story about a woman named Brooke who is unsatisfied with her life and longs for so much more until one day she finds it in the form of the pirate Captain Charlie Colt who gives her more than she ever dreamed of. I really enjoyed reading this story and even though I'm not usually a big fan of historical romance and pirates I did find myself really enjoying this book. Charlie isn't a pirate for the typical reasons and is actually a good guy. Another way in which this book differed from the typical pirate story is the fact that it's not riddled with steamy love scenes. I recommend this book to anyone.
April 14, 2019
I enjoyed reading this book about Brook and Captain Charlie. I enjoyed the change of pace for me as a reader and reading this series which circles around pirates and the lovely young ladies that capture their hearts. This story was no different. Brook is a young woman, 20 yrs old that is looking for something more than marrying some older man. I love that she finds a treasure map and her and Charlie go out to find the treasure. Of course, this story has a few twists to make the treasure hunt that much more rewarding. I enjoyed reading this story and found it to be an entertaining read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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