Mediterranean Sea, 1811
May Byam grew up following her father to his work at the ropemaking factory and listening to her uncle’s tales of life aboard a Royal Navy ship. After tragedy and scandal shatter her family, May is desperate to escape the shame that follows her. Despite her mother’s pleadings against it, May signs on as a lady’s maid to the young wife of a naval captain. If she’s going to run, she may as well do it in honor of her late uncle and cousin and where there is food, shelter, and perhaps even adventure. But the frosty reception she receives from the ship’s clergyman makes her feel far from welcome.
Heartbroken young Chaplain Elias Doswell returns to a harsh life at sea, but preaching to disinterested sailors isn’t the escape he’d hoped for—until a captivating young woman boards the ship. However, a case of mistaken identity ensures that he starts off on the wrong foot with the newly hired lady’s maid, who clearly wants nothing to do with him. But the close quarters of the ship forces the pair together, and May begins to see a side of the handsome clergyman she didn’t expect. As they struggle to navigate their deepening feelings, the danger of war with the French looms on the horizon, threatening their lives—and their love.
My thoughts: I enjoyed this series and the unique setting of the story! May and Elias have both had a rough go of things, with May bearing the brunt of her father's convict status and having to work to earn her living and Elias with not being suited for battle or having luck finding love. When a horrible first impression leaves them at odds, they must learn to get along better in such close quarters.
Overall I enjoyed this story, though there were times that May was exasperating with her choices of who she choses to put her faith and friendship with. Most of us can relate to both her and Elias, since they are flawed characters who deserve a second chance. I would recommend reading Georgana's Secret first to fully appreciate this story, since there are several cross over characters.
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
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