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sungetch's review
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
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
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⚠️ 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
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Death, Violence, and Murder
Minor: Child death, Slavery, and Kidnapping