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The Hart Trilogy #1
Hart's Desire
THIS IS BOOK 1 OF A 3 BOOK SAGA.
"With never a dull moment in the whole series, theses books were completely addicting and I found myself quite unable to put them down!" ~The Silver Dagger Scriptorium
An independent young lady meets a bold merchant captain pursued by a band of Caribbean pirates...what could possibly go wrong?
After a daring escape, Captain Landon Hart sails the Desire to Charleston for repairs and to keep a mysterious appointment with a plantation owner. He meets a sword-wielding, fiery-haired temptress on the way, and he isn't prepared for the impact she has on his tightly guarded heart...nor the trouble she manages to attract.
Keelan Grey had a solid plan that would save her from an arranged marriage to a cruel plantation owner until a deathbed confession from a loved one plunges her into a dark plot of deception and revenge.
Desperate for help, Keelan finds an unlikely ally in the exasperating but irresistible sea captain. But while she trusts him with her life, can she trust him with her secrets?
Hart's Desire is set just prior to the War of 1812, when privateers sailed the seas looking for enemy merchant ships to plunder. Hart's Desire is a story about a young woman from England, who's suddenly thrust into plantation life as the daughter of the plantation owner. Hart's Desire is rich with fascinating insights into the Low Country of Charleston, the food, the medicines and the lifestyles of the people of that time. Keelan is a very independent woman who is determined to avoid a marriage of convenience. Landon and his business partner dock their ships in the Charleston harbor for repairs. Weeks earlier the merchant fleet owner, Landon's mentor, set up a mysterious appointment with George Grey of Twin Pines plantation-Keelan's father. It is this meeting which forces Landon and Keelan's paths to cross.
Keelan has been well-tutored by her father's valet, and not only can she read, write and keep the accounts for the plantation, but she can also fence and defend herself with a dagger.
Romance readers will love this spunky heroine and the scoundrel who can't help but fall in love with her!
"An absolutely breathtaking series!"
"With never a dull moment in the whole series, theses books were completely addicting and I found myself quite unable to put them down!" ~The Silver Dagger Scriptorium
An independent young lady meets a bold merchant captain pursued by a band of Caribbean pirates...what could possibly go wrong?
After a daring escape, Captain Landon Hart sails the Desire to Charleston for repairs and to keep a mysterious appointment with a plantation owner. He meets a sword-wielding, fiery-haired temptress on the way, and he isn't prepared for the impact she has on his tightly guarded heart...nor the trouble she manages to attract.
Keelan Grey had a solid plan that would save her from an arranged marriage to a cruel plantation owner until a deathbed confession from a loved one plunges her into a dark plot of deception and revenge.
Desperate for help, Keelan finds an unlikely ally in the exasperating but irresistible sea captain. But while she trusts him with her life, can she trust him with her secrets?
Hart's Desire is set just prior to the War of 1812, when privateers sailed the seas looking for enemy merchant ships to plunder. Hart's Desire is a story about a young woman from England, who's suddenly thrust into plantation life as the daughter of the plantation owner. Hart's Desire is rich with fascinating insights into the Low Country of Charleston, the food, the medicines and the lifestyles of the people of that time. Keelan is a very independent woman who is determined to avoid a marriage of convenience. Landon and his business partner dock their ships in the Charleston harbor for repairs. Weeks earlier the merchant fleet owner, Landon's mentor, set up a mysterious appointment with George Grey of Twin Pines plantation-Keelan's father. It is this meeting which forces Landon and Keelan's paths to cross.
Keelan has been well-tutored by her father's valet, and not only can she read, write and keep the accounts for the plantation, but she can also fence and defend herself with a dagger.
Romance readers will love this spunky heroine and the scoundrel who can't help but fall in love with her!
"An absolutely breathtaking series!"
300 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2016
About the author
Chloe Flowers
18 books344 followersChloe's Pirates & Petticoats series is now available in a sweet, clean and wholesome version called The Hearts of Adventure!
Chloe supports the National Breast Cancer Foundation
Chloe Flowers is an award-winning author, the recipient of the University of Akron, Wayne College 2018 Writer of the Year Award, and writes small town contemporary women’s fiction, and historical women’s action and adventure romance novels about scoundrels, pirates, and spunky, independent heroines.
Chloe’s constantly looking for the next adventure. Her pets have always been named after her favorite characters or action heroes: Indiana, Luke, Gimli, Thelma, Rocket, Forrest, Al Giordino, Severus, Mushu, Mérida, Gibbs, Jack…Dead Pool (he’s a goldfish).
Chloe’s biggest fault is the apparent inability to say “no” whether it’s in response to a call for aid or a double-dog-dare to hike home through 30 acres of a snow-covered forest at midnight…during a full moon. It was early morning during said adventure when she came upon a group of sheriff’s deputies searching for a lost girl. So, of course she offered to help (turns out, they were searching for her).
She has a weakness for good red wine, Calvin & Hobbes comics, pie, dark chocolate and brown-eyed guys with beards, which is probably why she digs pirates, men in uniform and treasure hunters and writes about action and adventure and of course romance, which is the greatest adventure of all.
Chloe supports the National Breast Cancer Foundation
Chloe Flowers is an award-winning author, the recipient of the University of Akron, Wayne College 2018 Writer of the Year Award, and writes small town contemporary women’s fiction, and historical women’s action and adventure romance novels about scoundrels, pirates, and spunky, independent heroines.
Chloe’s constantly looking for the next adventure. Her pets have always been named after her favorite characters or action heroes: Indiana, Luke, Gimli, Thelma, Rocket, Forrest, Al Giordino, Severus, Mushu, Mérida, Gibbs, Jack…Dead Pool (he’s a goldfish).
Chloe’s biggest fault is the apparent inability to say “no” whether it’s in response to a call for aid or a double-dog-dare to hike home through 30 acres of a snow-covered forest at midnight…during a full moon. It was early morning during said adventure when she came upon a group of sheriff’s deputies searching for a lost girl. So, of course she offered to help (turns out, they were searching for her).
She has a weakness for good red wine, Calvin & Hobbes comics, pie, dark chocolate and brown-eyed guys with beards, which is probably why she digs pirates, men in uniform and treasure hunters and writes about action and adventure and of course romance, which is the greatest adventure of all.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
May 25, 2016
Hart's Desire is the first book in Pirates & Petticoats series.
Hart's desire belongs to the early 1800 time period and has a good historic background that's been dealt with very diligently.
Keelan Grey is desperately trying to escape an arranged marriage with a plantation owner before she happens to meet Hart, a mysterious man who wouldn't shy away from girls. He is brave, playful, and seductive! The romance between two of them is dealt with very finely.
This is a very finely written book that keeps readers hooked until it finishes... and then the readers are left with a feeling to wait for the next book in the series to continue the enjoyment.
Hart's desire belongs to the early 1800 time period and has a good historic background that's been dealt with very diligently.
Keelan Grey is desperately trying to escape an arranged marriage with a plantation owner before she happens to meet Hart, a mysterious man who wouldn't shy away from girls. He is brave, playful, and seductive! The romance between two of them is dealt with very finely.
This is a very finely written book that keeps readers hooked until it finishes... and then the readers are left with a feeling to wait for the next book in the series to continue the enjoyment.
May 18, 2016
This review is based on an ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest opinion.
This bodice ripper was a romance book placed in the historical time-frame of a young America before it went into battle again in 1812. The push and pull of insults was along the lines of Scarlett being hateful to Rhett.
This bodice ripper was a romance book placed in the historical time-frame of a young America before it went into battle again in 1812. The push and pull of insults was along the lines of Scarlett being hateful to Rhett.
October 17, 2018
I received a free ARC from Netgalley.
I unpleasantly found out that this is a series. It ends with a murder and life altering information for the the heroine.
The story is a struggle of a 19 year old woman constrained by her circumstances in her time period and also being part of a family that is targeted for vengeful murder. Three viewpoints are told-the heroine, the hero, and the villain.. The romance is fought so bitterly by the heroine that it wasn't enjoyable.
I won't be reading any more of this drama.
I unpleasantly found out that this is a series. It ends with a murder and life altering information for the the heroine.
The story is a struggle of a 19 year old woman constrained by her circumstances in her time period and also being part of a family that is targeted for vengeful murder. Three viewpoints are told-the heroine, the hero, and the villain.. The romance is fought so bitterly by the heroine that it wasn't enjoyable.
I won't be reading any more of this drama.
February 15, 2017
Full disclosure: I received this novel as a First Reads Goodreads giveaway, but that in no way affects this review.
A historical romance which features feisty Keelan Grey and Landon Hart sparring when first they meet. Dressed as a young lad, Keelan is being trained in self-defense by her father's servant Daniel. She is spirited and beautiful, and she catches the eye of Landon Hart, a sea-going captain of the "Desire." Because of her mother's experience, Keelan knows the heartbreak of loving a man of the sea and vows to never let it happen to her, yet she can't help but fall for the dashing Landon. Especially when he protects her more than once, and his kisses aren't too bad, either.
Keelan's father is dying and he only wants her to get married, and an arranged marriage is in works. That's not in Keelan's plans for her life and the two suitors (old Mr. Pratt and Everett Garrison, her father's physician) are not of her choosing. Still, Captain Hart is a rake, in her opinion, and no matter what, she doesn't want to admit to her feelings for him.
But will she ever realize what she feels for him? Or will she marry another? Will Hart win out?
This is the first of three books, and it seems true to the times. There are a few mistakes despite the editing, but none so glaring as to destroy the enjoyment of the story. The most egregious is the repeated misspelling of the word, court-martial.
While the story ends on the pair's happily-ever-after, there is a mystery to be resolved in the following novel. With an excerpt of the next novel Hart's Passion included in this proof, the author gives enough background from this one that a reader wouldn't be lost if they happen to miss this one, but as for this reader, hopefully, I'll read them in order. That the author loves one of my favorite romances, A Rose in Winter, is just an added plus.
A historical romance which features feisty Keelan Grey and Landon Hart sparring when first they meet. Dressed as a young lad, Keelan is being trained in self-defense by her father's servant Daniel. She is spirited and beautiful, and she catches the eye of Landon Hart, a sea-going captain of the "Desire." Because of her mother's experience, Keelan knows the heartbreak of loving a man of the sea and vows to never let it happen to her, yet she can't help but fall for the dashing Landon. Especially when he protects her more than once, and his kisses aren't too bad, either.
Keelan's father is dying and he only wants her to get married, and an arranged marriage is in works. That's not in Keelan's plans for her life and the two suitors (old Mr. Pratt and Everett Garrison, her father's physician) are not of her choosing. Still, Captain Hart is a rake, in her opinion, and no matter what, she doesn't want to admit to her feelings for him.
But will she ever realize what she feels for him? Or will she marry another? Will Hart win out?
This is the first of three books, and it seems true to the times. There are a few mistakes despite the editing, but none so glaring as to destroy the enjoyment of the story. The most egregious is the repeated misspelling of the word, court-martial.
While the story ends on the pair's happily-ever-after, there is a mystery to be resolved in the following novel. With an excerpt of the next novel Hart's Passion included in this proof, the author gives enough background from this one that a reader wouldn't be lost if they happen to miss this one, but as for this reader, hopefully, I'll read them in order. That the author loves one of my favorite romances, A Rose in Winter, is just an added plus.
May 6, 2016
Great entertaining read from the first paragraph. Hart's Desire by Chloe Flowers is an historical romance set in Charlston, South Carolina in the 1800's.
Captain Landon Hart, our rakish swash-buckling hero with a guarded heart comes up against feisty, independent Keelan Grey, when stranded in Charlston for a ship repair.
Keelan is trying to escape an arranged marriage and despite their less than ideal first meeting, Keelan finds an unlikely friend in Captain Hart.
Deception, deathbed secrets, suspense and romance are all woven together cleverly in this well-paced period novel.
Hart's Desire is an enjoyable read with loads of energy and I'm looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
Captain Landon Hart, our rakish swash-buckling hero with a guarded heart comes up against feisty, independent Keelan Grey, when stranded in Charlston for a ship repair.
Keelan is trying to escape an arranged marriage and despite their less than ideal first meeting, Keelan finds an unlikely friend in Captain Hart.
Deception, deathbed secrets, suspense and romance are all woven together cleverly in this well-paced period novel.
Hart's Desire is an enjoyable read with loads of energy and I'm looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
May 16, 2016
Pirates, an independent strong female lead, chiseled charming captains, is the icing on the cake for this delightful read. Keelan can easily pass as a man with the way she throws a dagger. An expert defenseman, the protagonist is like a superhero from the 1800’s. She’s strong hearted, witty, and caring at the same time. With a past full of secrets, the adventure begins. I loved the dialogue between her and Captain Landon Hart, it's playful, seductive, and smart. Definitely a tension building plot. Excellent depiction of the 1800’s, Chloe’s wild imagination will draw you in to this sizzling series.
September 13, 2016
Love me a little bodice ripping! This is a cute, entertaining romance read set in post-revolutionary American Charleston, South Carolina. Strong writing and a fast-paced plot had me moving through the story quickly! The strong female lead was added a refreshing depth to the tete-a-tete between the romantic parties. I love that in this book, Flowers gives us the tropes we’ve come to expect from the romance genre, but keeps it fresh with sharp dialogue, plot twists and mystery. The ending sets up strongly for the next installment—looking forward to reading it!
May 8, 2016
I was engrossed in the story from page one. The characters are intriguing and draw you into their complicated lives. Keelan is a feisty young woman who likes sword fighting and the city. Hart is a sexy 1800's bad boy, and remains a bit of a mystery in this book. I'm anxious to read the rest of the series to find out more! The author has a firm grasp on life and language in this time period while keeping the story light and easily understandable.
November 9, 2017
I like history with my romance. While a date was mentioned at the beginning of the book and a few facts were scattered here and there there wasn't much about the time period that marked it as 1811. Time wasn't all that important to the story. Then there was the heroine's name, Keegan. Not time appropriate for even a man.
The basic story involves Keegan and her father, court-martialed Commodore George Grey leave England to start a new life outside of Charleston. Someone has murdered members of their family which they fear is out of revenge for the sinking an American passenger ship thinking it was a French privateer. Makes sense to move to a country that thinks you're a murderer to be near your younger brother so your stalker doesn't find the rest of your family. Personally, I would have changed my name and gone to Canada but that's just me.
As far as the romance, Flowers is a master and it's 5 stars all the way. Keegan doesn't want to end up lonely like her mother, waiting for a man who's never home. If she can't marry for love, she wants to be independent by running her own shop. Captain Landon Hart has been played before and doesn't want to be tied down or hurt again. It starts off as a misunderstanding and ignites it's way to sizzling. The problem is, it ends on a cliffhanger. I received a free proof in exchange for a review and my copy had the first 2 chapters for the next book. Just enough tease to know I have to find out what happens next.
The basic story involves Keegan and her father, court-martialed Commodore George Grey leave England to start a new life outside of Charleston. Someone has murdered members of their family which they fear is out of revenge for the sinking an American passenger ship thinking it was a French privateer. Makes sense to move to a country that thinks you're a murderer to be near your younger brother so your stalker doesn't find the rest of your family. Personally, I would have changed my name and gone to Canada but that's just me.
As far as the romance, Flowers is a master and it's 5 stars all the way. Keegan doesn't want to end up lonely like her mother, waiting for a man who's never home. If she can't marry for love, she wants to be independent by running her own shop. Captain Landon Hart has been played before and doesn't want to be tied down or hurt again. It starts off as a misunderstanding and ignites it's way to sizzling. The problem is, it ends on a cliffhanger. I received a free proof in exchange for a review and my copy had the first 2 chapters for the next book. Just enough tease to know I have to find out what happens next.
January 7, 2019
The Price $ of True 💘Love
Charleston, SC 1811
Merchant ship captain⛵, Landon Hart🐺🍆🌋🔪, comes upon an apparent duel in a meadow while he is on his way to see Commodore Grey👴 at Twin Pines plantation. His late uncle, Fynn, had arranged the meeting.
In the meadow is a man, Daniel, and a youth, clashing swords🔪.
Landon🐺🍆🌋🔪 stops the fight but decides they were practicing, not fighting. The youth intrigues him. When they get to the plantation, he soon realizes the youth is a young woman, redhead, Keelan💃💋, the daughter of the Commodore!
The Greys left England when her mother was killed under suspicious circumstances, and most of the rest of her family also dies. Only Grey's brother survives in Charleston. The Commodore has enemies after he sunk a passenger ship⛵. One of more of the dead passenger's relatives is out to get him!
Keelan💃💋🔪 is schooled in sword and dagger fighting so that she can help protect herself. Surely their enemies can't find them in America!?
Landon🐺🍆🌋🔪 is a smuggler and a rake, but the attraction between him and Keelan💃💋 is instantaneous!
Her father wants to marry her off to an old, wealthy plantation owner who lives nearby. Keelan💃💋🔪 is ready to run away to avoid it!
ARC Received from Hidden 💎Gems
This is a fast paced, well written, suspense and romance💕, with suitors and enemies coming at the Grey family from several sides. The book📕 is written for adults. Loss of one 🌟for the cliffhanger.
Charleston, SC 1811
Merchant ship captain⛵, Landon Hart🐺🍆🌋🔪, comes upon an apparent duel in a meadow while he is on his way to see Commodore Grey👴 at Twin Pines plantation. His late uncle, Fynn, had arranged the meeting.
In the meadow is a man, Daniel, and a youth, clashing swords🔪.
Landon🐺🍆🌋🔪 stops the fight but decides they were practicing, not fighting. The youth intrigues him. When they get to the plantation, he soon realizes the youth is a young woman, redhead, Keelan💃💋, the daughter of the Commodore!
The Greys left England when her mother was killed under suspicious circumstances, and most of the rest of her family also dies. Only Grey's brother survives in Charleston. The Commodore has enemies after he sunk a passenger ship⛵. One of more of the dead passenger's relatives is out to get him!
Keelan💃💋🔪 is schooled in sword and dagger fighting so that she can help protect herself. Surely their enemies can't find them in America!?
Landon🐺🍆🌋🔪 is a smuggler and a rake, but the attraction between him and Keelan💃💋 is instantaneous!
Her father wants to marry her off to an old, wealthy plantation owner who lives nearby. Keelan💃💋🔪 is ready to run away to avoid it!
ARC Received from Hidden 💎Gems
This is a fast paced, well written, suspense and romance💕, with suitors and enemies coming at the Grey family from several sides. The book📕 is written for adults. Loss of one 🌟for the cliffhanger.
February 6, 2018
I received the second edition ARC from the publisher through New Gallery. It had a different cover.
Two sea captains come to shore after their fellow captain dies. Before he died he was writing letters and keeping contact with a man they go on a search for... it doesn’t make a lot of sense why. He is also in need of repairs after a pirate attack.
One of the captains (Landon) is a rakish playa who insta-lusts after Keelan. She is fighting her dying father’s wishes on who to marry. Landon and her become romantically involved, I didn’t realize this was a bodice ripping off type of book, and therefore cheesy and NOT CLEAN. She can’t decide who to trust. He can’t decide if Keelan means more to him than his other conquest at different ports.
It’s pretty obvious early on who the villain is and what he’s doing. The author added too many hints and expects you to be surprised by the “twist” at the end. There is a mystery and an alluding to a kidnapping that you are left hanging on at the end for the next book.
This book could have had promise, but so many parts made me roll my eyes or skip through. I also had to remind myself multiple times that it’s set in the Carolinas in the early 1800’s.
Two sea captains come to shore after their fellow captain dies. Before he died he was writing letters and keeping contact with a man they go on a search for... it doesn’t make a lot of sense why. He is also in need of repairs after a pirate attack.
One of the captains (Landon) is a rakish playa who insta-lusts after Keelan. She is fighting her dying father’s wishes on who to marry. Landon and her become romantically involved, I didn’t realize this was a bodice ripping off type of book, and therefore cheesy and NOT CLEAN. She can’t decide who to trust. He can’t decide if Keelan means more to him than his other conquest at different ports.
It’s pretty obvious early on who the villain is and what he’s doing. The author added too many hints and expects you to be surprised by the “twist” at the end. There is a mystery and an alluding to a kidnapping that you are left hanging on at the end for the next book.
This book could have had promise, but so many parts made me roll my eyes or skip through. I also had to remind myself multiple times that it’s set in the Carolinas in the early 1800’s.
January 17, 2019
This book was given to me from an honest review.
Hart’s Desire was an excellent book. It has comedy, sarcasm, passion and drama. I love how Keelan is her own person. She does not let anyone make her into something she is not. She know what she wants and she tries her hardest to get it. Then there is Landon Hart. The man if the hour. He is charming, daring and witty. He brings so much excitement into this book. I really enjoyed these 2 characters. I did not like Keelan’s cousin. She is such a spoil brat. I can kinda get where she is coming from, but still she is such a little baby. Over all very great book. Glad to have it in my collection.
Hart’s Desire was an excellent book. It has comedy, sarcasm, passion and drama. I love how Keelan is her own person. She does not let anyone make her into something she is not. She know what she wants and she tries her hardest to get it. Then there is Landon Hart. The man if the hour. He is charming, daring and witty. He brings so much excitement into this book. I really enjoyed these 2 characters. I did not like Keelan’s cousin. She is such a spoil brat. I can kinda get where she is coming from, but still she is such a little baby. Over all very great book. Glad to have it in my collection.
March 5, 2018
As the first book of the Hart trilogy, this is not bad at all. It is in fact good and solid with my great appreciation of the author's use of words and phrases that are not telling in distorting or mangling the timeline and the genre. At least I did not see the word "okay" in there and the juvenile "as If" and "like" used in the present day context or even the phrase "from here on out." Thank you dear author for staying within your timeline and thus providing the reader a few hours' worth of time spent into a past that you've so vividly created.
January 27, 2019
Author Chloe Flowers gives the reader a real adventure. For me the biggest problem is that the adventure is going to run the gamut of all three books in this trilogy. While the reader gets some answers to questions brought up in this first book there's so much left up in the air that makes this definitely not a stand alone read. Saying that there's so much of interest going on that the reader will be chomping at the bit for the next book to read where the adventure travels to for it's continuation.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
August 27, 2018
Sins from the Past, Secrets Kept, Revenge Sought, Greed, Jealousy, Pride - Can Love Win?
Chloe Flowers writes a moving fast paced tale that pulls you in from the beginning and keeps you completely engrossed in every moment until the very last page! I loved the fiery spirit and strength of Keelan Grey and the many facets and depth of character of Landon Hart. Though I thought it was easy to read through the doctors deception, I was surprised by other disclosed secrets!
Chloe Flowers writes a moving fast paced tale that pulls you in from the beginning and keeps you completely engrossed in every moment until the very last page! I loved the fiery spirit and strength of Keelan Grey and the many facets and depth of character of Landon Hart. Though I thought it was easy to read through the doctors deception, I was surprised by other disclosed secrets!
March 12, 2017
Great story.
I loved the story. However, be warned that this is not a standalone book. That was disappointing. It was very odd how the ending was handled. I think it just skipped to the beginning of the next book. It was a bit unnerving.
But she is an author I would like to keep following as long as the price point of her books stay within a reasonable range.
I loved the story. However, be warned that this is not a standalone book. That was disappointing. It was very odd how the ending was handled. I think it just skipped to the beginning of the next book. It was a bit unnerving.
But she is an author I would like to keep following as long as the price point of her books stay within a reasonable range.
January 16, 2019
Book one in the Pirates & Petticoats / The Hart Trilogy series a well written story that grabbed my attention from the first page. I want to read the rest of this series. But I will warn this is not a stand-alone book.
November 3, 2018
Excellent read
Was riveted from the very beginning. This is a must read. I recommend this author, am also getting nxt book in series can't wait to read it.
Was riveted from the very beginning. This is a must read. I recommend this author, am also getting nxt book in series can't wait to read it.
December 23, 2018
Good
This book is part of a series and I don't usually read. one that doesn't stand alone.it a good read.
This book is part of a series and I don't usually read. one that doesn't stand alone.it a good read.
December 31, 2018
Although the writing is good, this story leaves you wanting. but not so wanting that I'm willing to purchase the next two books. The story is okay, but it does not leave you wanting more.
January 9, 2019
Everything was quite good until I got to page 180 or so....then explicit sex. Not happy with this book. The story was good but I don't read explicit sex books.
July 16, 2019
A lot of fun but the formatting drove me up the wall. Too often sentences would disappear off the page, leaving me to guess what they were saying. Ignoring the formatting, I have given it four stars.
November 14, 2021
3.5 stars
Exciting and entertaining read. Interesting characters and good storyline.
Exciting and entertaining read. Interesting characters and good storyline.
March 24, 2018
Publisher's Description:
This is a new edition, completely re-written for much richer in characterization, conflict and tension.
An independent young lady meets a bold merchant captain pursued by a band of pirates...what could possibly go wrong?
Fiercely independent and equally impetuous Keelan Grey acts the dutiful daughter on the outside, but inside, she’s determined to avoid marriage even if it means taking the most desperate measures. Everything changes when a deathbed confession from a loved one plunges her into a dark plot of deception and revenge, and an assassin targets members of her family. Desperate for help, Keelan finds an unlikely ally in the antagonistic, but irresistible sea captain, Landon Hart.
Rakishly handsome and equally exasperating Landon Hart is a Freedom Runner-part of a network of people moving runaways to a new life up North. He’s in Charleston to smuggle a recently escaped group aboard his ship, and uncover the purpose of a clandestine meeting between his late business partner and a British plantation owner. When he meets a sword-wielding, fiery-haired temptress on the way, he isn't prepared for the impact she has on his tightly guarded heart...nor the trouble she manages to attract.
My Thoughts:
Although badly edited I did mostly like this story. I had to struggle through unusual and unnecessary punctuation. Copyright symbols and other characters that were placed in places where they weren't needed. This problem I found out later had to do with formatting rather than editing.
I didn't like the ending. The story ended in a cliffhanger. Instead of a story of it's own you have to wait for the next book to find out what eventually happens to our hero and heroine.
Because of the formatting problem I gave this poignant story 3.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and character development and a sensual rating of 2.5 of 5.0 flames.
The intimate scene between our hero and heroine is only a heavy petting one.
I hope the next book is soon ready so we will know our couple's fate.
I received an uncorrected digital ARC of this book to read for review from the author/publisher. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
This is a new edition, completely re-written for much richer in characterization, conflict and tension.
An independent young lady meets a bold merchant captain pursued by a band of pirates...what could possibly go wrong?
Fiercely independent and equally impetuous Keelan Grey acts the dutiful daughter on the outside, but inside, she’s determined to avoid marriage even if it means taking the most desperate measures. Everything changes when a deathbed confession from a loved one plunges her into a dark plot of deception and revenge, and an assassin targets members of her family. Desperate for help, Keelan finds an unlikely ally in the antagonistic, but irresistible sea captain, Landon Hart.
Rakishly handsome and equally exasperating Landon Hart is a Freedom Runner-part of a network of people moving runaways to a new life up North. He’s in Charleston to smuggle a recently escaped group aboard his ship, and uncover the purpose of a clandestine meeting between his late business partner and a British plantation owner. When he meets a sword-wielding, fiery-haired temptress on the way, he isn't prepared for the impact she has on his tightly guarded heart...nor the trouble she manages to attract.
My Thoughts:
Although badly edited I did mostly like this story. I had to struggle through unusual and unnecessary punctuation. Copyright symbols and other characters that were placed in places where they weren't needed. This problem I found out later had to do with formatting rather than editing.
I didn't like the ending. The story ended in a cliffhanger. Instead of a story of it's own you have to wait for the next book to find out what eventually happens to our hero and heroine.
Because of the formatting problem I gave this poignant story 3.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and character development and a sensual rating of 2.5 of 5.0 flames.
The intimate scene between our hero and heroine is only a heavy petting one.
I hope the next book is soon ready so we will know our couple's fate.
I received an uncorrected digital ARC of this book to read for review from the author/publisher. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
June 23, 2016
Hart's Desire #1 of a new series, "Pirates & Petticoats" by debut author, Chloe Flowers is an interesting Western Historical Romance set in early 1800's Charlestown, South Carolina, prior to the Revolutionary War. A great debut for Ms. Flowers!
A possibility of war with Great Britain is looming in the forefront of everyone's mine, the characters are intriguing and intense.
Steady paced, well developed characters and an intriguing storyline makes for some engaging entertainment. With some swashbuckling action, secrets galore, deception, revenge, an assassin on the loose and death bed secrets revealed, readers will find a exciting read.
Ms. Flowers has written vivid descriptions and details, which I felt at times a bit too much, however, they brought the story more to life. The heroine, was a bit immature, carekess, and reckless, playing with the affections of two young men, which could find herself in true trouble. However, her mother has died in the past two years, she has lost a couple of family members under mysterious circumstances, her father's health is feeling, she's been uprooted, not only to a new place but a new country entirely, and there is an overbearing, hateful and jealous cousin. Has an assassin followed them to America? Definitely a difficult, stressful time in a nineteen year old's life. The hero, is seeking an audience with the heroine's father, a disgraced, and court marshaled commandore, whose health is failing, mysteriously.
The cast of characters in "Hart's Desire" is impressive and engaging. A unique storyline filled with many mysteries and tragedies.
Exciting and adventurous storytelling with many twists and turns.
Be warned not all questions are answered, in fact, many are left unanswered. I would say, the reader is left with cliffhangers. A continuing saga, to be sure. Which I most definitely look forward to continuing.
However, even with this, it is a very enjoyable, enticing and satisfying read. Ms. Flowers is an author to follow. The reader will need to read the next installment for sure, to solve some of the mysteries of "Hart's Desire".
Received for an honest review. However, all opinions and thoughts are my own.
Rating: 4
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
A possibility of war with Great Britain is looming in the forefront of everyone's mine, the characters are intriguing and intense.
Steady paced, well developed characters and an intriguing storyline makes for some engaging entertainment. With some swashbuckling action, secrets galore, deception, revenge, an assassin on the loose and death bed secrets revealed, readers will find a exciting read.
Ms. Flowers has written vivid descriptions and details, which I felt at times a bit too much, however, they brought the story more to life. The heroine, was a bit immature, carekess, and reckless, playing with the affections of two young men, which could find herself in true trouble. However, her mother has died in the past two years, she has lost a couple of family members under mysterious circumstances, her father's health is feeling, she's been uprooted, not only to a new place but a new country entirely, and there is an overbearing, hateful and jealous cousin. Has an assassin followed them to America? Definitely a difficult, stressful time in a nineteen year old's life. The hero, is seeking an audience with the heroine's father, a disgraced, and court marshaled commandore, whose health is failing, mysteriously.
The cast of characters in "Hart's Desire" is impressive and engaging. A unique storyline filled with many mysteries and tragedies.
Exciting and adventurous storytelling with many twists and turns.
Be warned not all questions are answered, in fact, many are left unanswered. I would say, the reader is left with cliffhangers. A continuing saga, to be sure. Which I most definitely look forward to continuing.
However, even with this, it is a very enjoyable, enticing and satisfying read. Ms. Flowers is an author to follow. The reader will need to read the next installment for sure, to solve some of the mysteries of "Hart's Desire".
Received for an honest review. However, all opinions and thoughts are my own.
Rating: 4
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
July 21, 2016
Typically, historical romance is not my cup of tea, but I am glad I took a sip of Hart’s Desire. Once I started, my hesitation was history, and I couldn't stop until I reached the last page.
The author Chloe Flowers has weaved a unique storyline filled with many mysteries and tragedies supported by an impressive cast of characters. She transports the reader to an era set in 1811 - the weapons used then, sights and smells of the times, and the classic mouth-watering Southern recipes at the end of the book, all bring this story to life.
Secondly, the main characters are very well etched out, including back-stories. The young lady parading as a boy, Keelan Grey, does not wish to repeat the fate of her mother, the heartache of marrying a man whose first love will always be the sea. The handsome Landon Hart, captain of the aptly named ship, “Desire”, steals Keelan's heart even as she declares her intention to marry someone else. She might seem a bit immature and reckless, playing with the affections of two young men. She can’t deny her true feelings, and at the same, she is determined to live independently.
Finally, the writing is steady paced with vivid descriptions and just the right blend of some swashbuckling action, emotional encounters, deception, and revenge. The constant conflict between the main protagonists is engaging as they clash against each other for most of this book. Add to these, the possibility of a looming war with Great Britain, and this becomes a heady concoction.
Overall, Hart's Desire is an exciting and adventurous cliffhanger with many twists and turns that make it a very exciting and enticing read.
The author Chloe Flowers has weaved a unique storyline filled with many mysteries and tragedies supported by an impressive cast of characters. She transports the reader to an era set in 1811 - the weapons used then, sights and smells of the times, and the classic mouth-watering Southern recipes at the end of the book, all bring this story to life.
Secondly, the main characters are very well etched out, including back-stories. The young lady parading as a boy, Keelan Grey, does not wish to repeat the fate of her mother, the heartache of marrying a man whose first love will always be the sea. The handsome Landon Hart, captain of the aptly named ship, “Desire”, steals Keelan's heart even as she declares her intention to marry someone else. She might seem a bit immature and reckless, playing with the affections of two young men. She can’t deny her true feelings, and at the same, she is determined to live independently.
Finally, the writing is steady paced with vivid descriptions and just the right blend of some swashbuckling action, emotional encounters, deception, and revenge. The constant conflict between the main protagonists is engaging as they clash against each other for most of this book. Add to these, the possibility of a looming war with Great Britain, and this becomes a heady concoction.
Overall, Hart's Desire is an exciting and adventurous cliffhanger with many twists and turns that make it a very exciting and enticing read.
August 14, 2016
Where the heck have I been, that I did not find these books.
Oh My God this set of books is amazing. If I had not got an
e-mail telling me about them, I would have missed some
great books. These books are well written, well thought out,
and full of twist and turn that make for one hell of a read.
This is the first book in the series, where we meet Keelan
and Landon. And when the meet it was truly a shock to Him
and his best friend Chonal. I have to say I loved when she
walked off pulled the Scarf from her hair and he froze it was
truly a great moment in the book. Then when he blackmails
her into giving him a kiss that is when all the fun begins.
Landon is there to find out what his uncle was on his way to
find out from Keelan’s father Commodore Grey. And then
there is the Crazy Dr. who wants Keelan to be his wife, and
she feels obligated to the doctor, as he has been there
though her fathers illness. But in the mean time she has
started to fall for Landon. And she does not know what to do.
She just knows she cannot marry Mr. Pratt the old wealthy
landowner her father and Uncle want her to marry. Can
Landon convince her to marry him and run away with him.
before time runs out and she is forced to marry a man
she dose not love.
Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope you
enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this book,
please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like
it when you do; they value your opinions too.
Oh My God this set of books is amazing. If I had not got an
e-mail telling me about them, I would have missed some
great books. These books are well written, well thought out,
and full of twist and turn that make for one hell of a read.
This is the first book in the series, where we meet Keelan
and Landon. And when the meet it was truly a shock to Him
and his best friend Chonal. I have to say I loved when she
walked off pulled the Scarf from her hair and he froze it was
truly a great moment in the book. Then when he blackmails
her into giving him a kiss that is when all the fun begins.
Landon is there to find out what his uncle was on his way to
find out from Keelan’s father Commodore Grey. And then
there is the Crazy Dr. who wants Keelan to be his wife, and
she feels obligated to the doctor, as he has been there
though her fathers illness. But in the mean time she has
started to fall for Landon. And she does not know what to do.
She just knows she cannot marry Mr. Pratt the old wealthy
landowner her father and Uncle want her to marry. Can
Landon convince her to marry him and run away with him.
before time runs out and she is forced to marry a man
she dose not love.
Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope you
enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this book,
please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like
it when you do; they value your opinions too.
June 29, 2016
I didn’t realize until the end of this story that this was the first part of a saga. In a way I’m glad because the writing and story are so good and it isn’t over and will last a lot longer for my reading enjoyment. I love this saga! But in another way I don’t like having to wait to see Hart and Keelan reach their happy ever after. In this first part of the saga Keelan’s father is ill unto death and almost all of Keelan’s other family members have died under mysterious circumstances. Captain Hart meets Keelan for the first time when Hart is in town because of some damage to one of his ships and repairs are needed. Keelan’s uncle rented some warehouse space to Hart for storing his goods while his ship is repaired and in a roundabout way Hart meets the rest of Keelan’s family, attends a ball, and thus began the saga of Hart and Keelan and their falling in love. There is a mystery to solve about the deaths of Keelan’s family members and a terrible storm that brings about a climax to this first part of the saga. And I can’t wait to read part two, Hart’s Passion! A complimentary copy of this book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 7, 2016
This is the first installment in the Pirates & Petticoats series. It was an entertaining story with enough mystery and a daring heroine that kept me turning the pages until the end however if you’re looking for romance and characters with enough substance this story was lacking a little of both. Romance was definitely not at the front and center here as the main plot revolved around uncovering too many secrets and a lady trying to become more independent, which again kept the story interesting but not enough to be called a historical romance, at least not for my taste. Perhaps if the main characters had spent more time together even if not around their romance and their relationship had been more detailed the story wouldn’t have felt so incomplete. As it was, it felt as if he was only flirting with her ALL the time and not wooing her enough. 3 stars, and only because the other characters and the mysteries surrounding the couple were interesting enough.
** I was gifted a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review **
** I was gifted a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review **
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