Devil of the High Seas

Pirates of King's Landing #3

by Lauren Smith

Josephine Greyville, the daughter of an earl finds herself kidnapped on the eve of her wedding by her fiance's twin who just happens to be a pirate... a true devil of the high seas. Torn between the duty to marry the man she's promised to and caught up in the storm of passion she finds with her new pirate captor, Josephine fears she must choose between her family and her heart.

When Gavin Castleton stumbles through a secret entrance to his Cornwall estate, after losing his ship to a mutiny, he finds himself at the tender mercy of a young woman destined to marry his twin brother. Being the wicked one of the pair of brothers, Gavin can't resist taking the treasure of her heart, even if it means losing all he holds dear.

Genres: Historical Romance, Pirates, Romance, Audiobook, Historical Fiction, Adult

282 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 6, 2023

About the author

Lauren Smith is a USA Today Best-Selling author and an Oklahoma attorney. She knew she was destined to be a romance writer when she attempted to re-write the entire Titanic movie just to save Jack from drowning. Connecting with readers by writing emotionally moving, realistic and sexy romances no matter what time period is her passion. She’s won multiple awards in several romance subgenres including: New England Reader’s Choice Awards, Greater Detroit BookSeller’s Best Awards, Amazon.com Breakthrough Novel Award Quarter-Finalist and a Semi-Finalist for the Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley Award. To connect with Lauren, visit her at www.laurensmithbooks.com or twitter at @LSmithAuthor.

Reviews

[Céloise · Rating 2 out of 5]

2☆ Not so surprising that this 'Pirate King' starts his reign with a mutiny.

Save yourself! If I could do it all again, I'd read Book 2, In Like Flynn, and stop the series there with blissful memories of an incredible book. I’m always confounded and sort of sad when an absolute banger is followed by something so dissatisfying in a series. I'm sure my currently feral level of frustration with the H and the plot's lack of conflict is colored by those high expectations.

Still, it's hard to believe that THIS is who the formidable Thomas Buck would chose as his successor to be Admiral of the Black, the Pirate King of their underground parliament. ☠️🏴‍☠️ 🫡 Gavin did exactly ZERO parts of that job LOL. He couldn't even hold onto his own ship, crew, woman, or home...Oy. I won't list all of Gavin's poor judgment calls and failures as a sailor and a leader, but below is a list of spoilery highlights because I just can't not blast some of them. This is combined with the author's strange decision to CONFLICT-TEASE (it'd be cool if I made that term up, but probably not). "Conflict-tease" noun/verb definition: When an author repeatedly sets up pivotal situations of conflict, only to immediately erase the conflict as if it never existed. Any related tension and compelling plot or character development that should have resulted from it just disappears into the ether. The reader is left wondering why they just read all that other stuff if it ultimately didn’t really matter, and everything's actually just...fine? 🤷🏻‍♀️

⛔️ After apologizing to his twin brother for abandoning them for 7 years after their cheating ex chose Griffin, Gavin steals Griffin's new intended bride (Josie) and leaves AGAIN. Complete with a revenge note.
⛔️ Gavin's conflicting non-feelings about Josie? He suddenly decides they don't exist, and actually it was insta-love, because his dream version of his dead ex told him so. I…can’t.
⛔️ He accidentally steals Josie's brother's ship, and when Dominic finally catches up with them, he punches Gavin for stealing his sister and his ship, and then it's all good cuz now she's been abducted because Gavin left her.
⛔️ His reason for abandoning Josie when an evil nemesis is chasing them? He MUST leave to hunt down a vicar right away so he can "beat his brother to the altar." Swoon.
⛔️ Gavin's the only crew member who manages to get swept out to sea in order to save one man. This isn't consistent with the pirate culture we've seen in the first 2 books at all, especially for the Pirate King who's supposed to be leading everyone else in the West Indies. 😬

Marie Sue Josie should have picked a better pirate to pretend to be kidnapped by. Again, removing any interesting conflict from the equation, the author tells us that Josie wants Gavin to take her away, as she keeps trying to tell him. It’s almost funny, but not quite. Josie’s just hitching a ride out of her 20-pound wedding gown into one with fewer petticoats and trading the “good boy” Earl Twin for the “bad boy” Adventure Twin. But while chasing after her, Earl Twin instantly falls in love with Josie's lady's maid instead, for Reasons. So THAT conflict isn’t actually a thing, either. Almost every situation where there should have been a compelling problem or tension, the conflict was immediately erased before it could cause anything whatsoever to happen in the story. 🤦🏻‍♀️

I might check out Adrian's story when it comes out, because I still can’t quite accept that Lauren Smith isn’t going to give us another great book after In Like Flynn. Thankfully this was a BR with Elle Jae, so we got to complain heartily to each other throughout. 😂

[SGetch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Devil of the High Seas by Lauren Smith is an enthralling historical romance novel that transports readers through dangerous waters in pursuit of adventure and love. The story revolves around the themes of women's empowerment and equality, portrayed through engaging and complex characters.

⚠️ MILD SPOILERS BELOW ⚠️

The story begins with Gavin and his twin brother, Griffin Castleton, in love with the same woman, Charity, when they were just 19. Gavin was unaware of his brother's interest in her until Charity mistakenly called him by Griffin's name, revealing the betrayal of his brother and the woman he loved. I empathized with Gavin at that moment. Charity had been sleeping with both brothers, which I found distasteful. Charity chooses Griffin over Gavin, leaving him heartbroken and unable to bear their presence, so he flees.

Seven years later, Gavin has become the "King of the Pirates," a fierce and lawless man. Meanwhile, Griffin, who lost Charity and their son during childbirth, needs an heir. This is where Josephine "Josie" Greyville enters the picture. She is betrothed to Griffin, now a wealthy estate master, who would give her a respectable life. However, Josie yearns for freedom and adventure, rebelling against settling down.

When Gavin's ship mutinies off the coast of his home, he suffers a life-threatening wound and seeks out his brother for help. Instead of finding Griffin, he encounters Josephine, and their meeting leads to a thrilling pirate adventure.

✨ "... She let her own fire burn in her eyes. 'I belong to no man, only to myself.'
His eyes darkened at her response, as though he was excited by her defiant challenge.
'Be careful, Josie. Never tell a pirate he can't have something,' Gavin warned. 'He'll be tempted to steal it.' " ✨

Devil of the High Seas is an alluring and immersive story, making readers feel as if they are sailing along with Gavin and Josie on the open seas. I enjoyed the witty and flirtatious banter between them and the undeniable chemistry they shared. Gavin supports Josie in fulfilling her dreams while her bravery and love help him overcome his personal struggles and grief. They are an inspiring couple and easy to root for!

I strongly recommend Devil of the High Seas to anyone looking for a thrilling and romantic read with delicious steam and a guaranteed happily ever after!

Multi POV
Can be read as a standalone
Prologue & Epilogue

Tropes: forced proximity, pirates, age gap, emotional scars, hurt/comfort, first-time heroine, possessive alpha male

Safety Spoilers: No cheating or sharing between MCs. Gavin is grieving the loss of Charity but there is no true OW drama. Gavin's ex-lover makes a few appearances but they are only friends - both have moved on. Josie is engaged to Griffin and they share a kiss but there is no true OM drama. MCs only have eyes for each other IMO!

Content Warning: on-page sex, violence/death/murder (including child death and assault), kidnapping, cheating (not between MCs), arson, mentions of slavery. It's possible that I may have missed some things!

I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, the third in the Pirates of King's Landing series by Lauren Smith, is a swashbuckling delight, with adventure, passion (with some steamy goodness, imo), charming pirates with wicked grins and strong heroines who know their own minds and hearts. I really enjoyed this love story between Gavin Castleton, the brokenhearted, absent earl turned pirate, and Josephine Greyville, the younger sister of pirate hero, Dominic, whose story is told in Book 1 of the series. The main characters are nuanced and likable, despite some of their reckless life decisions, and the supporting characters are endearing, wise and well-drawn as well. For me, this was a bit of a sleeper hit - in that, the story just kept getting better and better, the more it unfolded, with all its threads tied up neatly at the close. My only less-than-stellar comment would be that I wish the epilogue had dealt with the main characters, Gavin and Josephine (are they still in the West Indies five to ten years down the line?), rather than setting up the next book in the series - although I am looking forward to watching Adrian, Josephine's twin brother and a sea captain himself, fall in love.

I listened to this story as an audiobook, and Nathaniel Priestley does a fabulous job narrating the tale, navigating the various character voices with aplomb. I would listen to more stories narrated by him in the future!

I received a copy of this story through Book Sirens, and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.

[Lou Ambrose’s Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow I just ploughed through this series huh? This is my SHIT. PIRATES, STRONG HEROINES NOT AFRAID OF FEMININITY AND PIRATES. I want more pls.

Please read CW for this series if you have any triggers

[Beth L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

entertaining high seas adventure romance

I was skeptical about reading a pirate/high seas romance but did so for my book club. I’m glad I chose it. It ended up being a moving story with just enough modern day social updates to make it resonant and a story that was a bit deeper than your average ripped bodice pirate fare

[Carissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gavin and Griffin are twins. Initially we learn Gavin has lost his first love to his brother Griffin. Gavin left and during his 7 years absence, he has become a head pirate captain of the West Indies. His ship has been overthrown by a mutiny and travels back home badly injured. He drops in his brothers bedroom only to find Griffins' betrothed/fiancé Josephine instead and she helps him by also cleaning his wounds. Gavin ends up kidnapping Josephine from his brother for revenge and also to find to get his ship back. Being in close quarters, Gavin and Josephine get to know each other. Lauren writes some really good descriptive scenes of the ship being at sea. This was pretty action packed. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
 
This series is getting better with each book release for me. I can't wait for Adrian's book next.

I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

[Pat Robinson]

Hijinks the High seas!! If you love pirate stories, this one is for you! I absolutely adored Gavin and Josie together! They have an aura of love around them that is just Devine! Though you probably guess how the climax may play out, there is a LOT of twists and turns you don’t see coming that make this story so exciting. The sad parts are so well written, you will want to cry and the joyful scenes just jump off the page! I loved Josie’s daddy on the ship in the fight scene. That was a fist-pump moment for sure! Delightfully written with wonderfully imperfect characters gives this a more than 5 star rating!!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG I have been waiting forever for this book. This is my 33rd book of Lauren Smith's. I read a couple of her books in 2015 and 2016 but didn't pick her up again regularly until 2018. She has become one of my favorite authors. I LOVE this series. Book 1 and 2 were some of my top favorite reads.

Lauren did it again. This is way more than 5 stars.

OMG this book was so Damn good. This one was so well written I had actual tears and I hardly ever cry in books. That says something about the writing because I cried a bit from Book 1. So freakin good.

I loved Gavin and Josephine. What a perfectly matched pair. This whole story was fantastic and definitely going in my top favorites list. I loved the "pirating", the thrills, excitement, suspense...just so damn good.

[Adélie · Rating 5 out of 5]

4/02/25
Second time reading this and this one really has to be my favourite. I can’t wait for book 4 to come out!
~~~~~~~~
The amount of love I have for this series omg!
I loved every second of this book! The adventure, the spice, the story, the pace. If I could give more than 5 stars I would!
I got so emotional during the last few chapters with Griffin.
I also wanna say Lauren Smith is the nicest person on the planet. She saw everything I posted on my bookstagram and we ended up fan girling over pirates. And I DMed her all my unhinged reactions as I was reading the book and it made the whole reading experience even more fun.
She is hands down one of my favourite people ever.
Super excited for Adrian’s story!

[Cindy Vallar · Rating 5 out of 5]

1742. Gavin Castleton is Admiral of the Black, leader of a loose confederation of Caribbean pirates. He is not, however, in control of his own ship. One of his men has turned most of the crew against him and he fights for his life in the midst of a storm off the coast of Cornwall, England. Seven years ago, he vowed never to return to his homeland but now has no choice. Wounded, he makes his way to the manor house through the smugglers’ cave below. He stumbles into his twin brother’s bedroom in the middle of the night. Instead of finding Griffin, he falls at the feet of a beautiful lady.

Her life is ending. There is just no other way to see it, as far as Josephine Greyville is concerned. Her brothers, one of whom is a former pirate, have grand adventures. Being a woman, she is entitled only to life as a wife and mother. Until the wounded man enters her room. She surreptitiously tends to his wounds and helps him hide, but once she discovers his identity, she must tell her intended, Griffin Castleton, a consummate gentleman.

Smitten by the spunky lady who comes to his rescue, Gavin decides the time has come to turn the tables on his brother. Griffin stole his beloved away seven years ago; now Gavin kidnaps Josie on the eve of their wedding. She and Gavin board a new merchant ship appropriated by his quartermaster. They pose as master, wife, and first mate instead of pirates and set sail. Speed is of the essence since the Royal Navy is hunting pirates in coastal waters and because Gavin has discovered just who owns the vessel they have absconded with: Josie’s older brother and Gavin’s former associate among the pirates. He and Griffin will come after them, but in the meantime, Gavin intends to give Josie the daring and courageous life she craves. Hopefully, he will also find the devil who stole his ship before their brothers find them.

Gavin is the flawed hero who immediately captures the reader’s heart, while Josie is the daring heroine willing to risk everything for the one she loves. The villain personifies the devil and his brutality is as legendary as his vileness. Smith artfully weaves description with such magic that the reader is transported back in time to the locations where this third book in the Pirates of King’s Landing series takes place.

The story, which is written for adults only, is a rip-roaring romantic adventure spiced with humor and emotion. (My favorite line is: “Lady Josephine, you cannot keep a pirate as a pet!”) As special treats, a secondary romance is interwoven with the first and the epilogue hints at the next book in the series, which involves Josie’s twin brother.*


*In the interest of full disclosure, I read and commented on an early draft of the manuscript. My review, however, is based on the published book, which I did not see or read until after publication.


(This review originally appeared at Pirates & Privateers: http://www.cindyvallar.com/LSmith.htm...)

[Donique Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

The following are my thoughts as I read this book. Gavin Castleton… future Earl of Castleton, has an identical twin brother - younger by minutes, discovered the woman he planned to propose to has also been courted by his twin. Josephine Greyville… younger sister of a pirate, has a twin brother, wishes for adventures not allowed for the daughter of an earl. Well the H has been very busy since he left home seven years ago. A betrayal places the H in an unwanted situation. It appears as if the H still has strong feelings for his twin brother’s wife. The H has just learned that his brother’s wife has died, now he feels alone in the world. The h is instantly intrigued and envious of the H’s past. Oh no the h is about to become engaged to the H’s brother. The H is attracted to the h and it surprises him. The brother of the H wants to move things immediately forward. The h imagines what her life will be like and finds it is not to her liking. Uh oh the H has done the unthinkable to his twin… is it retribution for the past? The h is shocked by the H’s actions but does not challenge him. Oh I forgot the h’s brother is/was an infamous pirate, he is not going to be pleased by the H’s actions. All kinds of secrets are coming to light due to the H’s actions, hehehe. Ooh the h’s older brother, father, twin, and betrothed are on a mission. The H shared his world and life on his private island with the h and she realizes a truth about him. The MCs have admitted their true feelings for one another, but there is still a dirty villain after the H. Oh no the villain has kidnapped the h to use as bait to attract and kill the H. Ooo the older brother - a former pirate, father, twin brother, former betrothed, and current betrothed of the h are all looking for the villain together. It seems the price demanded by the villain was higher than the H thought to pay. Yes. HEA. This one took me longer to finish than I anticipated, but it really is a good book. There is adventure, romance, drama, violence, some angst, and plenty of steam

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story captivates from the very first page, with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The battles and fight scenes are epic, while the heartfelt moments will have you reaching for tissues. The chemistry between Gavin and Josie is undeniable, leaving you wishing the story could have gone on longer.

Gavin, heartbroken after his beloved chose his twin brother over him, returns home seeking revenge. Following a mutiny that costs him his ship, he’s determined to heal his wounds and reclaim his pride.

Josie, meanwhile, is preparing to marry the respectable Earl of Castleton. Though it’s not the life she dreamed of, she’s committed to fulfilling her family’s expectations.

But fate intervenes when Josie is abducted by a pirate, thrusting her into a world beyond her wildest imagination. This unexpected adventure is the price she pays for aiding a wounded stranger. Her family, desperate to rescue her, pursues the pair across treacherous seas, with danger lurking at every turn.

Amid these trials, Gavin and Josie’s love blossoms. They find solace and connection in each other’s arms, transforming their perilous journey into a tale of love, courage, and redemption.

The author weaves these pirate tales with such flair that the high seas feel like a thrilling carnival ride. This gripping story features a compelling revenge trope, emotional depth, non-stop adventure, pulse-pounding action, not one but two romances, sizzling love scenes, and a heartwarming reunion with characters from previous books in the series. This book isn’t just a story; it’s an exhilarating escapade!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[BooksBooksandmoreBooks69 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Third book in the Pirates of King's Landing Series. It’s not necessary to read the other books as they all stand alone on their own, there are characters from previous books (but you’ll only know that if you’ve read them.)

Twists and turns will keep you on the edge, the battles and fight scenes are great, the sad parts will make you reach for tissues, and the chemistry between Gavin and Josie will have you wishing it was longer…..

Gavin left his home seven years ago when the love of his life chose his twin Griffin!! But now he’s back, for revenge!!
Returning home after losing his ship (to a mutiny) he’s home to lick his wounds and salvage his pride….

Josephine is due to marry the upstanding Earl of Castleton, it’s not the life she’s dreamed of, but she’s not about to disappoint her family…..

Being abducted by a pirate sweeps Josie into a world that’s beyond her wildest imagination. That’s the thanks she gets for helping a stranger who’s wounded!

Her family chase the pair across the seas, there is danger lurking in every corner! But that doesn’t stop this couple from falling in love 🥰

But how can they possibly be together when Gavin is a pirate and she’s already betrothed?

It was great to see previous characters from the other books (I personally love to catch up with couples from previous books.) I loved Jodie’s father (there is a scene in the book which I loved 🥰)

Yes, it’s a little cheesy in places. Yes it’s also predictable in its ending. But I love this authors style of writing, and I love this series, so I’m going to continue to read and recommend these books.

🦋

[Marion Löw · Rating 5 out of 5]

A captivating story with great images, emotional depth, plenty of adventure and danger, not one but two romances, sizzling hot love scenes and a reunion with the characters from the previous books in the series. What more could you wish for?

This book is part of the Pirates of King's Landing Series, but can be read on its own.

When the woman he loves chooses his twin brother Griffin over him, Gavin, although the elder and heir to an earldom, leaves his life and England behind and becomes a pirate. Years later, he loses his ship and is injured in a mutiny near his former home. He is able to return, but instead of his brother, who has since been widowed, he meets Josephine who tends to his wounds. Josephine is a free spirit, she longs for adventure, just like her older brother Dominic, who is a pirate. But unfortunately for her, her parents want her to marry the gentle and handsome Griffin, but he can't offer her the life she wants. Gavin is immediately attracted to her, and when he learns that she is to marry his brother, he kidnaps her to make her his mistress and steals one of Dominic's ships to get revenge on his brother and hunt down the man who took over his ship and killed his men in the mutiny. Chasing the foe and being chased by their brothers, Josephine is a more than willing captive…

If you like pirate stories with daring heroes, strong heroines, adventure and passion, you are sure to enjoy this book!

[FD · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet and spicy romantic historical story. Attractive writing style, quick and easy to read.

It is part of a series, but can be read as a standalone, there are some returning characters from previous books.

Josephine craves freedom and adventure, not marriage to a nice but boring man she didn't choose herself.

So she doesn't mind at all when she is kidnapped the night before her wedding by the handsome, dangerous brother of her husband-to-be.

Gavin has known loss in his life, his first love, now his ship. The pirate captain narrowly escapes a mutiny near his childhood home on the Cornish coast, where he seeks shelter badly wounded and finds Josephine, his brother Griffin's wife to-be.

When he takes Josephine, it's partly out of revenge, but also because he just cannot not keep Josephine with him. Pursued by her family, his family and bloodthirsty pirates, their feelings for each other deepen, and Gavin learns that nothing is more important to him than Josephine.

For the most part, a smooth running storyline. There is some humor in it, action, emotions

There were a few ( sudden) things that I think were not blended into the story smoothly, like Gavin's reaction in the prologue, or Griffin's reaction when he meets Vesper, Josephine's companion.

A swoonworthy story

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[BookishMya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I journeyed back to the high seas today, enjoying the wind on the sails and salty spray in the air. Lauren Smith never fails to pull me in to the exciting action of pirates and their bold lady loves. Seeing Dominic Grey’s little sister as a docile lady was never going to last. She has too much adventure in her soul to be tied to the land in a sedate life. Seeing her jump right into action to help the wounded pirate spoke to the Greyville spirit she was raised with. It’s funny that her parents want to see her settled when she had always been raised to go against the grain. Learning to sword fight alongside her brothers, all the sea stories of her father, is it any wonder she longs for freedom. I loved the quick acceptance she found onboard the ship and she carved her own place in Gavin’s world. The love story is told so well, that it overflowed into more than one love story in the end. This story will give you all the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ with the love of a great romance. I especially love the importance placed on family. Having both mc’s being twins, they equally understand the pull of your other half and the bond that exists singular to that relationship. There are few things sexier than pirates with a moral code, and Gavin Castleton exudes sexual appeal in spades. I thoroughly enjoyed being on board for this journey.

[Linda Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pirates, abduction, mutiny, oh my!
Who doesn’t like a good pirate romance when abduction before a wedding and revenge for a perceived wrong is in the heart of that pirate? Gavin and Griffin are twins and as such have similar feelings. What Gavin doesn’t realize is that the girl he loves is more in love with his brother and she chooses Griffin to marry. Gavin is so angry that he leaves home at 19yo. During the seven years that he was gone, his circumstances changed; he is now head of the pirates of the West Indies, but his ship was taken over in a mutiny. He drags his injured body home only to find Josephine in his brother’s old bedroom. His only thoughts are to avenge the deaths of his crewmen, take back his ship from Beauchamp and steal his brother’s intended bride. Guess what happens next?!
This book was so full of thrilling moments, some even had me on the edge of my seat. There will be saucy banter between Josie and Gavin; a few poignant moments and a perfect ending. Although I loved the story there were a few editing problems. Probably just needs more proofreading. Over all, I truly enjoyed this book which I read from the published version although I volunteered to review an ARC of it through BookSirens.

[Sonia · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an exciting adventure! Having come from a family of pirates, Josie was never going to be able to settle for the typical domestic life that had been charted for her. As much as I enjoyed this book, I was rather annoyed by the heroine. She rejected the kind of life that many women would dream of in favor of a life filled with unknowns and potential danger. Maybe that's why I haven't read many pirate romances? It bothered me that Josie's rejected bridegroom was not the villain of the story.

I did like the hero Gavin and his twin brother Griffin. I can't really say too much about them without giving away some spoilers. Suffice it to say, I felt sympathetic towards them and I was crying towards the end of the book. I was hoping that Griffin would be getting a book of his own. However, Josie's twin brother will be featured in the next installment. The teaser sounds really good.

Reading this story required more suspension of disbelief than I am used to. Perhaps pirate romance is not my thing. However, I will say that this book was entertaining and very emotional. The characters were well-developed, and the usual steam and witty banter were present.

I received a free ARC from BookSirens and this is my honest opinion.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book of the series Pirates of King's Landing and my first book by this author. If you like pirate stories, then this is definitely one you won't want to miss. Gavin and Griffin are twins. Gavin left home seven years ago after losing his first love to his brother. During his time away, he became a head pirate captain of the West Indies. When his ship is overthrown by mutiny, he comes home, injured, and finds Josephine, his brother's betrothed. She helps him with his wounds, but he decides to kidnap her to get revenge on his brother. As Gavin and Josephine are forced into close proximity, they get to know each other and a strong passion develops between them. Gavin slowly begins to win her heart, but her duty to her family is to marry his brother. She must now choose between duty to her family, or duty to her heart.

Such an exciting and well-written story! I was completely immersed from the very start to the absolute end. The characters were well-developed and interesting and I enjoyed following their adventure. I will definitely be going back and reading the books that I have missed!

I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[_bookish_book_ · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this book we follow the story of Josephine Greyville, younger sister to the hero from book one, Dominik. Josephine is suppose to marry Griffin Castleton, a man who lost his previous wife in a childbirth. When she and her family are visiting Griffin's castle just before the wedding something truly unexpected happens. His twin brother appears wounded and near death. Josephine instantly is drawn to mysterious Gavin. In the short time that they spend together Gavin is attracted to Jose and comes up with the plan to kidnap her and take revenge on his twin brother.

It was an ok read. After finishing it I felt like there wasn't much of a plot going on, at least for the bigger part of the book, it was definitely very romance focused story. There wouldn't be anything wrong with that if the characters would be a little bit more developed and there would be some build up to the romance. I personally didn't feel the chemistry between Gavin and Josephine, and I find it very unfortunate.

I guess that if you love pirates and stories set on sea, than you will enjoy this book much more than me. I also see how this fast paced story will attract lots of readers. It is an easy and enjoyable read. I recommend you give it a try :)

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Josephine Greyville and Gavin Castleton should not have met but they did!
Gavin was injured when a mad fellow pirate stabbed him and invoked mutiny on his ship!
Gavin left home at a young age when he and his twin Griffin loved (Charity) the same woman and she chose Griffin!
When Gavin finds himself close to his home he manages to find Josephine and a nonstop adventure! Josephine is engaged to Griffin but knows something is missing they don’t have any chemistry or spark!
Once Josephine Aka Josie meets Gavin the sparks are like lightening!
But Gavin has enemies and when a crazed Rogue pirate named Beauchamp comes after Gavin he destroys everything in his path!
When these two have saved each others lives more times than you can count it seems they must try once more!
When they stole a ship and Dominic, his wife and Breanna and Nicholas all lend a hand in rescue but they are not alone!
Griffin who has fallen for Vesper also brings Lord Camden along well this is an unexpected party! But evil won’t stay dormant and when death comes calling no one wants to answer!
Bravo well done! Can’t wait for Adrian (Josie) twin and Ronnie also needs a story!
I received an ARC copy from Book Sirens for all 3 book reviews! Outstanding

[Sven · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun book.

Castles, pirates, mutiny, kidnapping, love, lust and hea. It has it all!!

Gavin, the pirate hero is pretty awesome. He feels fiercely and is broken hearted when his sweetheart picks his brother to marry. He leaves home and is back 7 years later when his ship is taken over by his crew and he is injured. He's heads to his family castle to get help from his brother only to find…

Josie, a spirited gorgeous woman wanting adventure, also unethusiastically engaged to Gavins brother to get married in a few days. The attraction is fast and hot.

As revenge or retribution, Gavin kidnaps Josie from under his brother's nose and sets of for his home in the Caribbean and to reclaim his ship. In the weeks that follow on the ship, love blossoms between the H and h.

Josies family and Gavins brother follow on their trail. Many adventures later (with one phenomenal rescue of H by h), more kidnapping, lots of fighting and some life threatening injuries, everything works out and there's a great hea.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[SH · Rating 4 out of 5]

On the eve of her wedding, Josephine Greyville, the daughter of an earl is kidnapped by a her fiance's twin, Gavin Castelton, who just happens to be a pirate. Finding herself entranced her captor, she agrees to go with him only to find herself falling in love with him. Gavin, having left his Cornwall estate at nineteen when his brother stole his first love away from him, returns home to find himself once fighting for a woman. When he steals her away from his brother, he does so, knowing that he might lose any relationship he could ever have again with his twin.
Josie was definitely the woman to match Gavin’s passionate and brazen streak. Whilst his brother Griffin believes that Josie and he will find some companionship, Gavin definitely draws out Josie’s fiery nature. This book has plenty of romance and action, with Josie matching Gavin in all ways. There was plenty of entertaining banter between these two as well as moments of reflecting on their past and hopes for the future. A great read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gavin Castleton left his home over seven years ago when his love chose his twin brother Griffin. Now after being injured & losing his ship to a mutiny he returns to his beloved family estate in Cornwall to heal and make a plan for revenge. Stumbling through a secret entrance, of his home where he hopes to find his twin brother Griffin but on entering his brother’s bedroom he finds Josephine Greyville the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen. After she tends to his wounds, he learns she’s to marry Griffin. Unable to repay her kindness with anything other than desire, he kidnaps her to keep her from marrying his brother.
The third book in the series & it’s easily read on its own but previous characters do make appearances. A fast paced book with strong characters. I was drawn in from the start & devoured it in two sittings, the chemistry between Gavin & Josie is electric & the banter is witty. There was humour, angst, joy, sadness, which combined made for an enthralling book
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Sahar's Honest Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suspenseful, Pirate Romance

Gavin and Griffin are twins. A broken heart leads to Gavin leaving his home, title, and twin brother behind. He becomes a pirate--a devil of the high seas. When he comes home after many years, he is injured. He finds Josephine in what used to be his bed. Instead of screaming the house down as she ought to have, finding a stranger in her bedroom, she tends to his wounds. Then, a story of kidnapping, adventure, and enduring love begins.

Josie was to be his twin’s bride, but Griffin took something from him, causing him to leave his life behind, and now, it was Gavin’s turn. Was it revenge that leads Gavin to kidnap Josie, or did he realize that he could not live without her?

This story is an absolute delight. It will take you on a journey of romance, adventure, and suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The book kept me turning the pages from beginning to end. I wish I could give it more than five stars. This author's books are an absolute delight. I look forward to what she writes next.

[Deborah Durand · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was trying to recall the last time I read a story about pirates. I can’t, because I haven’t. The only stories that resemble a woman being stolen by a pirate have one theme in common… they’re all about alien pirates and their spaceships. So, this story about a family who thrives on adventure and high seas sparked my interest. This was an interesting plot covering one of my favorite tropes - twins. The author will have you captured within the first few pages. What happens to twin brothers when they both fall in love with the same woman? And are confronted with almost the same dilemma years later? Get ready for a lot of thrills, family drama, lady pirates, swashbuckling, and storms on the high seas. The romance between Josephine and Gavin will have you singing…🎶 Yo, ho, ho! It’s a pirate’s life for me 🎶
I have received an ARC from the author through BookSirens and I am leaving an unbiased review voluntarily.

[Peggy · Rating 4 out of 5]

After losing the woman he loved to his twin when he was nineteen, Gavin left home hurt and angry. During the next seven years he went to sea, actually he became a pirate. When part of his crew mutinied, he is injured and makes his way home. Instead of his brother, he found Josephine, his brother’s betrothed, in Griffin’s bedroom. When he leaves, he takes Josie with him, and steals one of her brother’s ships. Josie has always wanted a life of freedom and adventure. She holds her own with Gavin and fits well with the crew. This is an exciting pirate adventure. There is mutiny, chasing the mutineers, revenge, kidnapping a damsel, being chased by her family, and his, and a pirate who finds the treasure he can’t give up. Will Gavin find Beauchamp and retake his ship? What is in the future for Gavin and Josie, for Griffin? A swoon-worthy hero, a beautiful feisty heroine, and a romance on the high seas.
I received an ARC of this book via Book Sirens and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Rainelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gavin and Jose kept the story moving with very entertaining interludes. I was drawn to the book by the story the generates and develops between to brothers, Gavin and Griffin. These are brothers bonded by blood, bonded by family and bonded by love. The heroineJose’s character was good for the book; however I felt that her age could have been bumped up from eighteen to an age of twenty four or older. The scenes between the eighteen and twenty six year old skates along the lines that are conflicting to visualize in today’s time. Even though times then were different. I remain very respectful to the point of the story of the brotherly bond that is so powerful for the enrichment that the characters and the story brings. I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Cheryl McTyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished this book and I need to recover before I read the first two books in this series. I forget what a great writer Lauren is. Her writing style just wrecks havoc my emotions. This story grabs you from page one. The love between Gavin and Griffin; Gavin and Josie; Griffin and Vesper… the list goes on. The brutality, the steam, the love of a father, subtle humor, seeing ghosts, falling in love and overboard. This book has everything and then some. While this is the 3rd book, I didn't feel lost having not read books 1 and 2 and is perfect as a stand alone.

Bring on Adrian's story, the sooner the better please.

If I could give 6 stars I would.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Catherine A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lauren Smith does a fine job of bringing seafaring swashbucklers to life in “Devil of the High Seas.” Picture Errol Flynn in his movie “Sea Hawk” while you’re reading (Web search if you don’t recognize the reference 😊). The two main characters are each twins which adds an interesting aspect to the story (Gavin and Griffin Castleton are brothers. Josephine and Adrian Greyville are fraternal twins.) Gavin and Josephine meet by accident and their adventure begins. I won’t spoil anything other than to add that it is always refreshing to have a strong female partner… I do encourage you to read this story as it will transport you to the Golden Age of Piracy and make you laugh and cry during the journey.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.