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Scandalous Adventures at Sea #1
To Love a Pirate
Librarian's Note: This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN B07F5ZMMFF
A Robin Hood pirate captain encounters a saucy barmaid with a dark secret that threatens to ruin both of their lives.
Belle has no intention of returning to Port Royal and to a life she wants to forget. She needs to get off Tortuga and start a new chapter in her life, not take a step back. Everyone, including her family, think she’s dead…and she plans to keep it that way.
Captain Donovan offers her a way off Tortuga in exchange for her services: posing as his bride to gain trust from a wealthy tradesman. But Belle soon realizes the pirate’s plan to pillage and plunder the tradesman’s estate will only draw attention to Belle’s attempt to escape.
After all, the wealthy tradesman is Belle’s father.
But Belle’s life isn’t the only one hanging in the balance. Donovan is wanted for his multiple crimes against the Crown. If he’s discovered, he'll be hanged on the gallows, and Belle’s haunting, secret past may make her more of a risk than an asset.
Belle and Donovan have nowhere else to turn but to each other, but accepting one another’s help could ruin everything.
Fans of Pirates of the Caribbean and Robin Hood will get addicted to this swashbuckling adventure. Scroll up and 1-click this book today!
A Robin Hood pirate captain encounters a saucy barmaid with a dark secret that threatens to ruin both of their lives.
Belle has no intention of returning to Port Royal and to a life she wants to forget. She needs to get off Tortuga and start a new chapter in her life, not take a step back. Everyone, including her family, think she’s dead…and she plans to keep it that way.
Captain Donovan offers her a way off Tortuga in exchange for her services: posing as his bride to gain trust from a wealthy tradesman. But Belle soon realizes the pirate’s plan to pillage and plunder the tradesman’s estate will only draw attention to Belle’s attempt to escape.
After all, the wealthy tradesman is Belle’s father.
But Belle’s life isn’t the only one hanging in the balance. Donovan is wanted for his multiple crimes against the Crown. If he’s discovered, he'll be hanged on the gallows, and Belle’s haunting, secret past may make her more of a risk than an asset.
Belle and Donovan have nowhere else to turn but to each other, but accepting one another’s help could ruin everything.
Fans of Pirates of the Caribbean and Robin Hood will get addicted to this swashbuckling adventure. Scroll up and 1-click this book today!
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2014
183 people are currently reading
460 people want to read
About the author
Heather C. Myers
125 books769 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 75 reviews
July 22, 2016
I’ve been meaning to read this one for a while. You see, I’ve read a few of the author’s stories so far, and to date I’ve enjoyed them. Some more than others, but all have kept me interested throughout. This one appealed to me for one simple reason: pirates. I’m not someone who will go out of their way to find pirate books, especially not pirate romance books, but I cannot say no to such books. I have a soft spot for them – so much so that I really wish I’d read more of them. Moreover, this was the first book the author wrote and I wanted to see where it all began. To quote the author:
“A quick word about Heroes & Thieves - this was one of the first books I wrote seriously. It means a great deal to me because it's the essence of my dream come true. I remember scouring the romance aisles for a pirate novel (I'm obsessed with pirates!) that had more than just love at first sight, damsels in distress, and sex (although those are all great things - I want more to a book than one genre). I was with my mom at Borders (remember those?), and when I couldn't find anything, I turned to her and said, "I'm going to write my own."
And I did.
A few, actually.”
So, as you can see, a number of things pulled me towards this one. I didn’t start on it right away, but it was constantly nagging at me to read it. Unfortunately, when I gave in and decided to give it a read I did so at a less than wise moment in time. Starting a book at one o’clock in the morning when you’re working the next day is not wise. It means no sleep. Well, such is what this book meant. I kept telling myself I would put it down upon finishing a chapter… expect that never happened. I kept telling myself to stop, to sleep, but I kept going until I reached the end. You know you’re addicted when you forego sleep.
We have a fun story, even if it is a little bit slow at times. We have a fun heroine (one of my favourites by the author, actually): she has wit, she does what she wants, and she is generally fun to read. We have the typical romance, which is fun to watch play out. I admit there are some inconsistencies in the story, but if you’re as pulled in as I was then it is possible to overlook them. I would have also liked something more from the ending, for things to be more solid, but it was an interesting way for things to end. If nothing else, it means there is a possibility for the author to come back to it in the future if she wants to – and I would love for such a thing to happen.
If you’re a fan of pirate romance, I certainly recommend giving this one a read. It’s super fun.
“A quick word about Heroes & Thieves - this was one of the first books I wrote seriously. It means a great deal to me because it's the essence of my dream come true. I remember scouring the romance aisles for a pirate novel (I'm obsessed with pirates!) that had more than just love at first sight, damsels in distress, and sex (although those are all great things - I want more to a book than one genre). I was with my mom at Borders (remember those?), and when I couldn't find anything, I turned to her and said, "I'm going to write my own."
And I did.
A few, actually.”
So, as you can see, a number of things pulled me towards this one. I didn’t start on it right away, but it was constantly nagging at me to read it. Unfortunately, when I gave in and decided to give it a read I did so at a less than wise moment in time. Starting a book at one o’clock in the morning when you’re working the next day is not wise. It means no sleep. Well, such is what this book meant. I kept telling myself I would put it down upon finishing a chapter… expect that never happened. I kept telling myself to stop, to sleep, but I kept going until I reached the end. You know you’re addicted when you forego sleep.
We have a fun story, even if it is a little bit slow at times. We have a fun heroine (one of my favourites by the author, actually): she has wit, she does what she wants, and she is generally fun to read. We have the typical romance, which is fun to watch play out. I admit there are some inconsistencies in the story, but if you’re as pulled in as I was then it is possible to overlook them. I would have also liked something more from the ending, for things to be more solid, but it was an interesting way for things to end. If nothing else, it means there is a possibility for the author to come back to it in the future if she wants to – and I would love for such a thing to happen.
If you’re a fan of pirate romance, I certainly recommend giving this one a read. It’s super fun.
October 27, 2014
Just finished this so with the story fresh in my mind I can say that it was an ok historical romance but it wasn't amazing.
The synopsis was quite misleading with "he doesnt like her, she doesnt care" as once you've read it you know that he admires her and she's fantasised about him and his exploits since she was a child so perhaps that should be changed.
Belle ran away as a teenager after a life altering ordeal and started over in a small port but her temperment wasn't suited to dealing with oafish men.
Captain Donovan is a pirate by circumstance but doesn't covet the wealth like others. Seeing the fiery blonde stand her ground stirs his interest and he allows her passage aboard his ship.
Both have been searching for the other without realising it and their fates allow both to move forward.
It was enjoyable if a little predictable and perfect at times (the brig breakout). The language didn't seem to fit with the setting in particular Aarons pet name for Belle being "Doll" just seemed out of place.
It passed the time but more story and character development would have been welcomed.
The synopsis was quite misleading with "he doesnt like her, she doesnt care" as once you've read it you know that he admires her and she's fantasised about him and his exploits since she was a child so perhaps that should be changed.
Belle ran away as a teenager after a life altering ordeal and started over in a small port but her temperment wasn't suited to dealing with oafish men.
Captain Donovan is a pirate by circumstance but doesn't covet the wealth like others. Seeing the fiery blonde stand her ground stirs his interest and he allows her passage aboard his ship.
Both have been searching for the other without realising it and their fates allow both to move forward.
It was enjoyable if a little predictable and perfect at times (the brig breakout). The language didn't seem to fit with the setting in particular Aarons pet name for Belle being "Doll" just seemed out of place.
It passed the time but more story and character development would have been welcomed.
dnf
February 9, 2024The writing was chaotic, jumping perspectives in the same paragraph. The emotions seemed surface level and hasty, not quite fitting in with the circumstances bringing them out. It wasn’t for me.
April 1, 2017
I just finished Heroes & Thieves (The Swashbuckling Romance Series, #1)
By Heather C. Myers @heathercmyers
I can't wait to read the rest of the series
By Heather C. Myers @heathercmyers
I can't wait to read the rest of the series
February 20, 2021
So many holes
Where to start... (small spoilers)
1. This is the most typo riddled, missing words, grammatical mess I have ever come across in print. That says a lot because I typo a lot and normally don’t care. This is likely not anything to do with the author but the transcribing of this book.
Examples:
-on instead in-
-her in place of him-
-missing words-
and so on in many place through out this book. Mistakes like that don’t normally bother me at all but this book has so many where I had to read the sentence multiple times and figure out what it should say because what was printed made no sense. This novel needs a serious editing.
2. Total fantasy not a historical romance. Not historically accurate at all. The author has done 0 research on piracy, the time period (which isn’t even given) or well anything. I think the author watched too much ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ and decided that was all the research needed to write a pirate romance novel.
3. The book was a fun read but the nonsense that made no sense was a serious distraction. The giant unrealistic holes were also a distraction.
4. Over descriptions on clothing, hair, looks, height, ect but no description of the ship they were on. The author called them “rooms” several times not cabins which made me think are they on land again? Frankly for how little of the ship was discussed they could have been on land no where near the ocean. No mention of sea sickness, motion, wind, waves, well anything related to being on a ship. Nothing even happened sailing on the ocean.
5. Why was the main characters referred to multiple times as the “older woman”?? It should have said older sister or Belle. It didn’t fit. It was odd. There was lots of instances where these strange types of wordings occurred that made me wonder is this the authors first novel and was it even edited?! It didn’t read smooth. There was a lot of confusing wording.
6. For those that care there is one intimate scene almost at the end of the book. It occurs after little to no previous heat between the characters. Sure we knew they found each other attractive but no kissing ect lead up to it.
It was the most awkwardly written creepy “love scene” I’ve ever read (and I’ve read many romance novels). It read like it was written by a clueless teenage boy who has never had sex nor ever read a sex scene before. The author should have just had them kiss step in his cabin and end of chapter. I’m in no way bothered by a sex scene but this one was horribly & awkward written and did nothing to further the failing story.
7. Rum bath?! Yeah no. Gross. That would burn like h$ll if you had open cuts after being beat up by the police or (Royal Navy)? I’d rather a bath in cold sea water. This was another issue of inconsistency. They could waste water to wash clothing but not for a bath? It’s like nothing was really well planned out in this story.
I could go on but I think anyone reading this will have sufficient information on how poorly written this novel is. I’m surprised this book was even published. It has potential with a strong editing and some rewriting.
This may seem harsh but seriously this book was a mess.
Where to start... (small spoilers)
1. This is the most typo riddled, missing words, grammatical mess I have ever come across in print. That says a lot because I typo a lot and normally don’t care. This is likely not anything to do with the author but the transcribing of this book.
Examples:
-on instead in-
-her in place of him-
-missing words-
and so on in many place through out this book. Mistakes like that don’t normally bother me at all but this book has so many where I had to read the sentence multiple times and figure out what it should say because what was printed made no sense. This novel needs a serious editing.
2. Total fantasy not a historical romance. Not historically accurate at all. The author has done 0 research on piracy, the time period (which isn’t even given) or well anything. I think the author watched too much ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ and decided that was all the research needed to write a pirate romance novel.
3. The book was a fun read but the nonsense that made no sense was a serious distraction. The giant unrealistic holes were also a distraction.
4. Over descriptions on clothing, hair, looks, height, ect but no description of the ship they were on. The author called them “rooms” several times not cabins which made me think are they on land again? Frankly for how little of the ship was discussed they could have been on land no where near the ocean. No mention of sea sickness, motion, wind, waves, well anything related to being on a ship. Nothing even happened sailing on the ocean.
5. Why was the main characters referred to multiple times as the “older woman”?? It should have said older sister or Belle. It didn’t fit. It was odd. There was lots of instances where these strange types of wordings occurred that made me wonder is this the authors first novel and was it even edited?! It didn’t read smooth. There was a lot of confusing wording.
6. For those that care there is one intimate scene almost at the end of the book. It occurs after little to no previous heat between the characters. Sure we knew they found each other attractive but no kissing ect lead up to it.
It was the most awkwardly written creepy “love scene” I’ve ever read (and I’ve read many romance novels). It read like it was written by a clueless teenage boy who has never had sex nor ever read a sex scene before. The author should have just had them kiss step in his cabin and end of chapter. I’m in no way bothered by a sex scene but this one was horribly & awkward written and did nothing to further the failing story.
7. Rum bath?! Yeah no. Gross. That would burn like h$ll if you had open cuts after being beat up by the police or (Royal Navy)? I’d rather a bath in cold sea water. This was another issue of inconsistency. They could waste water to wash clothing but not for a bath? It’s like nothing was really well planned out in this story.
I could go on but I think anyone reading this will have sufficient information on how poorly written this novel is. I’m surprised this book was even published. It has potential with a strong editing and some rewriting.
This may seem harsh but seriously this book was a mess.
did-not-finish
May 31, 2016For this book I had to create a new shelf called 'has no plot'. Which is why it is under did not finish since by the time I get past more then halfway through the novel I should have a pretty good idea of the general plot.
But that is not the case with this novel since the characters seem to be going into different situations with no logic or purpose.
But that is not the case with this novel since the characters seem to be going into different situations with no logic or purpose.
Currently reading
September 6, 2016Lizard: 4⋆.
Wombat: Pending⋆.
Overall: Pending⋆.
Wombat: Pending⋆.
Overall: Pending⋆.
October 9, 2021
Free on Apple Books
Almost dnf. It started out okay. I was emotionally invested even though the writing was a bit stilted. But as the story progressed, there were so many distractions. And I just didn’t love the shaker plot development.
For starters, it’s anyway. Never anywayS. A well educated 18th century female would certainly not even dream of saying anyways. I’m not even sure she’d say anyway. A writer should know anyways is slang and should only be in dialogue by characters who wouldn’t know better, don’t care, or are using it ironically.
Secondly, the numbers are super inconsistent. On one page belle is almost 14 when she leaves. On another nearly 13. Sometimes it’s 8 years gone, sometimes 10. Were told Aaron is 28 then that he’s been a pirate for 15 years and left at 18. Like I said, inconsistent.
Third, the papa. He unexpectedly ably dies a month after Belle leaves but leaves a note which made it sound like he knew he was dying? Okay.
Fourth, older woman. Belle was referred to as older woman a few times. She’s early 20s. How about older sister? Or even older girl. Older woman makes her sound old.
Then the plot was just a mess. Our Robin Hood pirate supposedly robbed the rich to help the poor, but we don’t really know how he helped the poor. We’re also told he freed slaves. But a thief can’t just free them. They’d need papers of freedom or they wouldn’t be free. They would be arrested and probably killed.
Speaking of Aaron: he was kind of dumb. When he mentioned the daughter that escaped to belle, it seemed like he figured it out. But obviously he hadn’t. It was just stupid. He should have been smarter than that. And the comments he made about damaged goods and all that. Ew. And how he smiled when he realized she’d been slapped like she deserved it. Gross. Yah maybe it would be a normal reaction for a man of that time, but romance novels have heroes for a reason. They should be different. Better. I’m honestly not even sure how the two fell in love. They don’t spend much time together that we actually see. And the author doesn’t take advantage at all of their circumstances. Idk. It just fell flat.
This author has potential but needs to work on her writing and research. Character and plot development require attention. This book just didn’t work for me and I would not pay for the sequel.
Almost dnf. It started out okay. I was emotionally invested even though the writing was a bit stilted. But as the story progressed, there were so many distractions. And I just didn’t love the shaker plot development.
For starters, it’s anyway. Never anywayS. A well educated 18th century female would certainly not even dream of saying anyways. I’m not even sure she’d say anyway. A writer should know anyways is slang and should only be in dialogue by characters who wouldn’t know better, don’t care, or are using it ironically.
Secondly, the numbers are super inconsistent. On one page belle is almost 14 when she leaves. On another nearly 13. Sometimes it’s 8 years gone, sometimes 10. Were told Aaron is 28 then that he’s been a pirate for 15 years and left at 18. Like I said, inconsistent.
Third, the papa. He unexpectedly ably dies a month after Belle leaves but leaves a note which made it sound like he knew he was dying? Okay.
Fourth, older woman. Belle was referred to as older woman a few times. She’s early 20s. How about older sister? Or even older girl. Older woman makes her sound old.
Then the plot was just a mess. Our Robin Hood pirate supposedly robbed the rich to help the poor, but we don’t really know how he helped the poor. We’re also told he freed slaves. But a thief can’t just free them. They’d need papers of freedom or they wouldn’t be free. They would be arrested and probably killed.
Speaking of Aaron: he was kind of dumb. When he mentioned the daughter that escaped to belle, it seemed like he figured it out. But obviously he hadn’t. It was just stupid. He should have been smarter than that. And the comments he made about damaged goods and all that. Ew. And how he smiled when he realized she’d been slapped like she deserved it. Gross. Yah maybe it would be a normal reaction for a man of that time, but romance novels have heroes for a reason. They should be different. Better. I’m honestly not even sure how the two fell in love. They don’t spend much time together that we actually see. And the author doesn’t take advantage at all of their circumstances. Idk. It just fell flat.
This author has potential but needs to work on her writing and research. Character and plot development require attention. This book just didn’t work for me and I would not pay for the sequel.
February 20, 2025
Great cover, but wrong depiction.
Writing is difficult, but attention to detail is important. When writing about a particular time period it's necessary to research to get details correct. This author apparently didn't and she had trouble keeping her the facts about her characters straight. Modern language and incorrect words made this hard to read. This has potential to be great if redone
A note to all authors - Do not rely on spellcheck. It will make sure words are spelled correctly, but won't tell you if the word is wrong. Invest in a good editor, not just friends. A good editor can help your story become more cohesive.
Likes: Aaron was gentlemanly. He kept his crew in hand without violence. He was "the Robin Hood of the seven seas" giving away all but what was necessary to keep the ship running.
Dislikes:
Belle leaves behind all but the clothes she stands in - tunic, breeches and boots
elastic holding her hair - not created until 1820
rolled brown tobacco is a cheroot
"doing something she did not relishing in"
behaving as a "dotting wife" rather than doting
no mirror - captain was fastidious about his appearance and that of the crew, he'dhave a mirror for shaving
she focused on "the dirt under her nails" - again cleanliness captain required, also she's posing as rich merchant's wife
"broad" as term for a woman not used until 1913
"smile eclipsed into her face", later on their faces - wrong
" neigh" isn't "nae", also not Scots so why use it?
can't "reclaim" what you haven't claimed
wouldn't get "flu", but she's develop ague
only one butler, maids would pack ladies clothes
butler, or any servant, wouldn't address a family member without the honorific - Miss, Madam, Sir, Master
hugged her sister " frivilously"
use of "betrothed" instead of " wife" in same sentence
Commack is a Commodore at beginning, but later it's a new promotion; he is also named Master which referred to his father earlier; also unlikely that he'd have that rank so young
Modern language "I get to go."
Writing is difficult, but attention to detail is important. When writing about a particular time period it's necessary to research to get details correct. This author apparently didn't and she had trouble keeping her the facts about her characters straight. Modern language and incorrect words made this hard to read. This has potential to be great if redone
A note to all authors - Do not rely on spellcheck. It will make sure words are spelled correctly, but won't tell you if the word is wrong. Invest in a good editor, not just friends. A good editor can help your story become more cohesive.
Likes: Aaron was gentlemanly. He kept his crew in hand without violence. He was "the Robin Hood of the seven seas" giving away all but what was necessary to keep the ship running.
Dislikes:
Belle leaves behind all but the clothes she stands in - tunic, breeches and boots
elastic holding her hair - not created until 1820
rolled brown tobacco is a cheroot
"doing something she did not relishing in"
behaving as a "dotting wife" rather than doting
no mirror - captain was fastidious about his appearance and that of the crew, he'dhave a mirror for shaving
she focused on "the dirt under her nails" - again cleanliness captain required, also she's posing as rich merchant's wife
"broad" as term for a woman not used until 1913
"smile eclipsed into her face", later on their faces - wrong
" neigh" isn't "nae", also not Scots so why use it?
can't "reclaim" what you haven't claimed
wouldn't get "flu", but she's develop ague
only one butler, maids would pack ladies clothes
butler, or any servant, wouldn't address a family member without the honorific - Miss, Madam, Sir, Master
hugged her sister " frivilously"
use of "betrothed" instead of " wife" in same sentence
Commack is a Commodore at beginning, but later it's a new promotion; he is also named Master which referred to his father earlier; also unlikely that he'd have that rank so young
Modern language "I get to go."
March 20, 2024
I don't want to be rude...but this was bad. I've read better Pirates of the Caribbean fanfic and this seems like it is trying so hard to be that.
First, things just happen. It's like I am reading a series of plot point summaries but how they tie together is absent.
Second, is this supposed to be a historical romance? I assumed, but there are so many times where it seems the author forgot that because it read so modern-- it became so distracting and icky.
Third, if you expect romantic chemistry in romance you certainly won't find it here.
Fourth, this is the most un-piratey pirate romance I've ever read. I get that Aaron (awful name by the way) is more of a Robin Hood pirate but there is just no pirate aspect present.
Fifth, I love nicknames but him calling her “doll” just does not work for the time this takes place (supposedly)— but it just doesn’t work in general and seems out of place.
After being assaulted by her fiancé (which is never made into as big of a deal as it should be) Belle runs away, ending up stuck in Tortuga for 8 years. In comes the Robin Hood pirate captain and she barters a getaway-- I still don't understand how they conveniently end up getting involved with her past-- including, returning home for some plan to rob... them? I don't know. They are literally invivted in to the house seemingly with no questions asked as they pretend to be a married couple.
Unsurprisingly she is recognized only to immediately be recognized and discovers that he sister is now the assaulter's fiancé. It still doesn't make as big of a deal over that tidbit of plot as there should be....but like I said, it makes no sense. How it makes any sense her sister ends up traveling with them is an even bigger mystery to me.
I am just annoyed. I stopped reading at about 60% and even then I was skimming by 30%.
First, things just happen. It's like I am reading a series of plot point summaries but how they tie together is absent.
Second, is this supposed to be a historical romance? I assumed, but there are so many times where it seems the author forgot that because it read so modern-- it became so distracting and icky.
Third, if you expect romantic chemistry in romance you certainly won't find it here.
Fourth, this is the most un-piratey pirate romance I've ever read. I get that Aaron (awful name by the way) is more of a Robin Hood pirate but there is just no pirate aspect present.
Fifth, I love nicknames but him calling her “doll” just does not work for the time this takes place (supposedly)— but it just doesn’t work in general and seems out of place.
After being assaulted by her fiancé (which is never made into as big of a deal as it should be) Belle runs away, ending up stuck in Tortuga for 8 years. In comes the Robin Hood pirate captain and she barters a getaway-- I still don't understand how they conveniently end up getting involved with her past-- including, returning home for some plan to rob... them? I don't know. They are literally invivted in to the house seemingly with no questions asked as they pretend to be a married couple.
Unsurprisingly she is recognized only to immediately be recognized and discovers that he sister is now the assaulter's fiancé. It still doesn't make as big of a deal over that tidbit of plot as there should be....but like I said, it makes no sense. How it makes any sense her sister ends up traveling with them is an even bigger mystery to me.
I am just annoyed. I stopped reading at about 60% and even then I was skimming by 30%.
April 17, 2019
Belle is working as a barmaid in Tortuga when she makes a bet with a pirate, Aaron. She loses, but after a series of events, she is able to convince him to take her with him when he leaves. She just wants to be dropped off at his next port-of-call to start again. The life she lives is not one that she had imagined as a very young girl, but that changed when she was assaulted by her betrothed as a young teen. She ran away at that time and has never looked back. The pirate believes she could be of use in his next big scheme, posing as his wife while his crew steals a wealthy tradesman’s wealth. Belle has qualms about stealing in general, but this request puts her in even more of a quandary: Her father is Aaron's mark.
Will Belle go along with Aaron’s plans so that she can continue living on the ship? If she does, what will it like to come home again? Will the past come back to haunt her? What of the family she hasn't seen in so many years? Will she and Aaron develop feelings for each other? Is Aaron in danger because of his past deeds… and will he pull Belle into it?
I like the strong characterization of both Belle and Aaron. Belle is a strong-willed woman who's been through a lot in her relatively young life. Aaron is the Robin Hood of the waves. While he does keep some of his booty for himself and his crew, much of it goes to help others who are less fortunate. Much of the story is humorous (which I love), but other parts are heartfelt as well—a lovely combination to read in any book. I love the new cover of this book; you can see it at Amazon under the new title To Pillage a Pirate. Not only is it beautiful, but it is definitely reminiscent of the Pirates of the Caribbean.
If you enjoy romantic tales about pirates, you might find this an enjoyable read.
I received a copy of this book for free, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
Will Belle go along with Aaron’s plans so that she can continue living on the ship? If she does, what will it like to come home again? Will the past come back to haunt her? What of the family she hasn't seen in so many years? Will she and Aaron develop feelings for each other? Is Aaron in danger because of his past deeds… and will he pull Belle into it?
I like the strong characterization of both Belle and Aaron. Belle is a strong-willed woman who's been through a lot in her relatively young life. Aaron is the Robin Hood of the waves. While he does keep some of his booty for himself and his crew, much of it goes to help others who are less fortunate. Much of the story is humorous (which I love), but other parts are heartfelt as well—a lovely combination to read in any book. I love the new cover of this book; you can see it at Amazon under the new title To Pillage a Pirate. Not only is it beautiful, but it is definitely reminiscent of the Pirates of the Caribbean.
If you enjoy romantic tales about pirates, you might find this an enjoyable read.
I received a copy of this book for free, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
September 18, 2018
I have read the parts of this series entirely out of order. I started in the middle, then went forwards, and came back, then went forward again, and now I’m finally back at the beginning. I spent most of this story thinking I’ve read this book before. I can’t find any evidence to support this fact, but there’s a sense of familiarity about it. It’s possible that’s because I’ve encountered Aaron and Belle in other books of the series. Or perhaps it’s simply because I’ve lived and breathed The Pirates of the Caribbean movie series for so long that this adventure in Port Royal, Tortuga, and the surrounding environs feels like an old familiar friend. I loved watching Belle’s independence and listening to her sassy one-liners. Aaron starts the book looking like the biggest jerk in the Caribbean, but I loved him as much as Belle by the time the story was over. I know their story continues; I can’t wait to see what else is on the horizon for these literary Caribbean pirates.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book.
November 7, 2020
Not doing a full review just going to give some thoughts and reactions because I have a lot to say, but don’t want create a review. I just want to spit it out.
Initial reactions: I felt that ending was really abrupt. I was not expecting it to end that way. It almost felt anti-climatic. I was left a little dissatisfied by it. The romance I liked but I wanted more. More details. More explorations. More showing them getting to know each other and falling love. I wanted some more heart to hearts. I especially wish they discussed about her assault especially before they made love because it would have shown how big of a deal it was for Belle to be with Aaron in that way. I wanted her be vulnerable with him especially when the commented about her secrets being a treasure chest that she was keeping under lock and key. A key she would give to no man especially pirate Aaron. I think it would have been meaningful if she gave him that symbolic key as she opened up more and more to him. I just wanted to see that scene to show their emotional growth as a couple, which would show how special their relationship was. Didn’t care for when right after Belle was hit by Dustin that Aaron’s reaction was that she deserved it. That Dustin must have a reason for hitting her. Yes, he was angry, but he justified the abuse she faced at Aaron’s hands. That was not okay with me. It downed my opinion of Aaron quite a bit just from that alone. Yes, he was a pirate, but he was a pirate that was facing injustices like slavery, prostitution, etc. So, I didn’t understand why he was okay with what happened to Belle yet not what happened with others that he was fighting against.
What I did like was the storyline. The fact that this was historical pirate romance that I don’t think I have read about before. It definitely had those Pirates of the Caribbean vibes especially with places like Tortuga and Port Royal so that was cool. I loved Belle and her spunk and drive after she survived something horrific to her. She stood up to what she believed in. She learned to protect herself. There was just a lot of love for her. I loved she loved the stories that her grandfather told her about pirate Captain Aaron Donovan so she was already enamored with Aaron before she met him, but she didn’t let him get away with things. She called him out and stood up to him, which created some lovely back and forth and great sexual tension. Their chemistry was great. I loved the romantic moments that they did share like the teaching to dance scene, the undressing scene, the ball scene, the lovemaking. They really showed off the care, affection, and love they had for one another. They sweet moments as well. I loved the whole pirate adventure moments that made this a very different and intriguing read with every mission they took. There were a couple twists and turns that I hadn’t seen coming especially with the sister. I loved that. I enjoyed the overall arcing story. I thought it was good for the most part.
Initial reactions: I felt that ending was really abrupt. I was not expecting it to end that way. It almost felt anti-climatic. I was left a little dissatisfied by it. The romance I liked but I wanted more. More details. More explorations. More showing them getting to know each other and falling love. I wanted some more heart to hearts. I especially wish they discussed about her assault especially before they made love because it would have shown how big of a deal it was for Belle to be with Aaron in that way. I wanted her be vulnerable with him especially when the commented about her secrets being a treasure chest that she was keeping under lock and key. A key she would give to no man especially pirate Aaron. I think it would have been meaningful if she gave him that symbolic key as she opened up more and more to him. I just wanted to see that scene to show their emotional growth as a couple, which would show how special their relationship was. Didn’t care for when right after Belle was hit by Dustin that Aaron’s reaction was that she deserved it. That Dustin must have a reason for hitting her. Yes, he was angry, but he justified the abuse she faced at Aaron’s hands. That was not okay with me. It downed my opinion of Aaron quite a bit just from that alone. Yes, he was a pirate, but he was a pirate that was facing injustices like slavery, prostitution, etc. So, I didn’t understand why he was okay with what happened to Belle yet not what happened with others that he was fighting against.
What I did like was the storyline. The fact that this was historical pirate romance that I don’t think I have read about before. It definitely had those Pirates of the Caribbean vibes especially with places like Tortuga and Port Royal so that was cool. I loved Belle and her spunk and drive after she survived something horrific to her. She stood up to what she believed in. She learned to protect herself. There was just a lot of love for her. I loved she loved the stories that her grandfather told her about pirate Captain Aaron Donovan so she was already enamored with Aaron before she met him, but she didn’t let him get away with things. She called him out and stood up to him, which created some lovely back and forth and great sexual tension. Their chemistry was great. I loved the romantic moments that they did share like the teaching to dance scene, the undressing scene, the ball scene, the lovemaking. They really showed off the care, affection, and love they had for one another. They sweet moments as well. I loved the whole pirate adventure moments that made this a very different and intriguing read with every mission they took. There were a couple twists and turns that I hadn’t seen coming especially with the sister. I loved that. I enjoyed the overall arcing story. I thought it was good for the most part.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2021
This historical pirate adventure and romance with a lovely and enticing cover was above a young girl who ran away from home in her early teens to escape a man promised her and compromised by him. Living as a barmaid for eight years, she is rescued by a notorious Robin Hood pirate. After that it becomes somewhat fantastical in that she returns home with said pirate to divert family while it is robbed not expecting to be recognized. The same cur is now ex-betrothed to her sister who she is determined to rescue. Doesn't always makes sense to the more logical reader but perhaps will be better embraced by a younger reader who enjoys pirate adventures.
July 20, 2022
It kept me entertained enough during a very long power outage
The characters are likeable and the plot is pretty good and its got enough clever lines to make you giggle a little.
And here's the but, the writing is mediocre. Standard romance format. A lot of instances lacking depth and using the same phrase Multiple times in the same paragraph. etc
It kept me entertained and out of my head enough while the power was out. So if you are looking for a quick read that won't entirely consume you and take you on an emotional rollercoaster and has a feel good ending then this book is worth grabbing.
The characters are likeable and the plot is pretty good and its got enough clever lines to make you giggle a little.
And here's the but, the writing is mediocre. Standard romance format. A lot of instances lacking depth and using the same phrase Multiple times in the same paragraph. etc
It kept me entertained and out of my head enough while the power was out. So if you are looking for a quick read that won't entirely consume you and take you on an emotional rollercoaster and has a feel good ending then this book is worth grabbing.
February 7, 2021
A good story, but I would have enjoyed more of the pirates and less of the romance.
I usually do not read a romance type book, but since this one was about pirates I decided to try it, and I was not disapointed. Having a sister of Belle involved was something different. The pirate, Aaron, was someone's dream man; handsome, a good man, and a gentleman. In fact I liked him myself. I'm glad the book had a happy ending, but too bad the baddest of the bad guys (the Commodore) got away without punishment.
I usually do not read a romance type book, but since this one was about pirates I decided to try it, and I was not disapointed. Having a sister of Belle involved was something different. The pirate, Aaron, was someone's dream man; handsome, a good man, and a gentleman. In fact I liked him myself. I'm glad the book had a happy ending, but too bad the baddest of the bad guys (the Commodore) got away without punishment.
May 4, 2024
I really wanted to love this book because how could you go wrong with pirates, romance and adventure. The multitude of grammar mistakes made this book feel like it was a second thought. I also thought that the part that everyone was waiting for (not describing more so that there aren’t spoilers) was equally rushed and not explained enough. I had to read those pages over and over to be able to understand exactly what happened and picture it in my head. And even then it really did not make much sense. Kind of disappointed in this but it was a freebie from Stuff Your Kindle Day.
June 29, 2024
It was honestly a cute read. I love how badass the fmc is, and her relationship with sexy pirate man was cute tho a bit rushed. I just loved the focus on her just wanting to have her adventures, not held down by societal standards and also dealing with the trauma of her past and how it affects her.
It brought me back to the romance novels i used to read growing up, so it definitely had a nostalgia feeling for me personally, which I loved :') so while sometimes the writing was a bit ¿¿¿ i still enjoyed it some.
It brought me back to the romance novels i used to read growing up, so it definitely had a nostalgia feeling for me personally, which I loved :') so while sometimes the writing was a bit ¿¿¿ i still enjoyed it some.
August 14, 2024
4.5 of 5
This book has a pretty strong willed and resilient FMC. I absolutely love her spirit and the enemies to lovers trope. There is a trigger for me with the FMCs past but I was prepared for it. The pirate vibes is one of the best I have read. I wish the book was longer and the ending seemed kind of rushed to me, but that again is my opinion. It was still good and a breath of fresh air from typical endings I guess you could say.I will definitely read more of this authors books.
This book has a pretty strong willed and resilient FMC. I absolutely love her spirit and the enemies to lovers trope. There is a trigger for me with the FMCs past but I was prepared for it. The pirate vibes is one of the best I have read. I wish the book was longer and the ending seemed kind of rushed to me, but that again is my opinion. It was still good and a breath of fresh air from typical endings I guess you could say.I will definitely read more of this authors books.
July 6, 2024
I liked the plot despite the many plot holes.
I felt like this book told what was happening and what people were feeling rather than showed. If the book was longer we could have a longer journey into the relationship between Aaron and Bella because it felt forced and quick, whereas at the start we had the banter and the possibility of enemies to lovers/forced proximity but they both fell within the first day on the ship.
I enjoyed the middle, some of the start and the last chapter.
I felt like this book told what was happening and what people were feeling rather than showed. If the book was longer we could have a longer journey into the relationship between Aaron and Bella because it felt forced and quick, whereas at the start we had the banter and the possibility of enemies to lovers/forced proximity but they both fell within the first day on the ship.
I enjoyed the middle, some of the start and the last chapter.
October 16, 2022
I love pirate books and have read a fair few, this was an okay read but could have been so much better. Seemed over in the blink of an eye, without proper resolution or proper character development.
Also had grammar mistakes spattered about (not many but enough to stand out it needs editing properly).
Overall a likeable read that passes the time.
Also had grammar mistakes spattered about (not many but enough to stand out it needs editing properly).
Overall a likeable read that passes the time.
August 18, 2025
Decently entertaining story but in desperate need of editing. The timeline of how long ago Belle ran away from home flipped from 8 to 10 years multiple times throughout the book was the biggest thing that stuck out to me. Overall I was entertained though so can’t complain too much as far as that goes 😂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2018
Excellent plot and characters
Loved the story, wished that some of the parts were more deeply developed...especially the love making. Three paragraphs is not enough to my motor running.
Loved the story, wished that some of the parts were more deeply developed...especially the love making. Three paragraphs is not enough to my motor running.
December 6, 2021
Exciting Adventure
My favorite books to read are about Pirates and this one is simply amazing. Belle and Aaron met after 8 years of Belle running away from home. Their adventures begin and a perfect book for anyone who loves Romance, adventure and suspense. A must read!
My favorite books to read are about Pirates and this one is simply amazing. Belle and Aaron met after 8 years of Belle running away from home. Their adventures begin and a perfect book for anyone who loves Romance, adventure and suspense. A must read!
July 14, 2024
Objectively, the writing in this book was not good. The scenes felt very undeveloped and there were so many mistakes and inconsistencies throughout. But the plot itself was decent and it was an overall fun read.
August 3, 2024
didn’t finish
The story is clunky and not well written. It jumps around from different point of views from one paragraph to the next. The content feels very juvenile. Then add the errors in grammar and spelling. I couldn’t finish it.
The story is clunky and not well written. It jumps around from different point of views from one paragraph to the next. The content feels very juvenile. Then add the errors in grammar and spelling. I couldn’t finish it.
October 16, 2017
Loved it!
Aaron and Belle were great! I love how independent and strong she was. I look forward to reading the rest of this series.
Aaron and Belle were great! I love how independent and strong she was. I look forward to reading the rest of this series.
January 1, 2021
I couldn't finish this, which is unusual for me. Book was super cheesy and not in a good way.
January 14, 2024
Such a touching love story
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