As a longtime romance reader, I thought I had read just about every
story that could be told during the Regency period. Bad Boys Ahoy!
proved me wrong, and hallelujah for that!
In the first novella, 'Stolen Pleasures,' pirate Sebastian steals a
bride, only to discover she is his bride they've been married by
proxy. The story takes an almost immediate turn from the norm. In
some romances, the proxy marriage would be a secret for much of the
story as part of a 'Big Secret' misunderstanding.
Instead, this issue is dealt with immediately, leaving the
remainder of the story to focus on delving into two fascinating
characters, Olivia and Sebastian. Olivia is not a standard
simpering heroine. She is passionate, strong-willed, and astute,
the perfect match for Sebastian.
I love the way Day creates compelling characters. Sebastian's
reasons for becoming a pirate are complex, and Olivia comes to
understand and know him perfectly. This story evokes a range of
emotions and culminates in a sweet ending.
'Lucien's Gamble' is the second novella. In it, Lucien discovers
that Julienne has disguised herself as a man to enter his club. He
has always wanted her, and he takes advantage of the surpring
opportunity to make the biggest gamble of his life.
As in the first novella, this one features unconventional
characters who fall in love. It's extremely satisfying to read
Lucien's journey from believing he is not good for Julienne to
realizing that he loves her and wants to be the one to make her
happy.
Julienne is a rare historical heroine--a woman who knows what she
wants and isn't afraid to pursue it.
The third novella is 'Her Mad Grace.' In this story, a snowstorm
forces Hugh to take shelter at the house of a reclusive woman known
as her mad Grace. Hugh meets Charlotte, a woman who introduces
herself as a companion.
All three stories in this anthology are connected, and the hero in
'Her Mad Grace' is Julienne's brother. Years have passed since
'Lucien's Gamble,' and the snowstorm gives Hugh the opportunity to
demonstrate responsibility and show that he can be relied on.
I found Hugh's vulnerability about being needed especially
poignant, and a few scenes toward the end of the story brought
tears to my eyes. Charlotte is a vivid heroine, and the scene where
she shows Hugh how much she loves him is incredibly moving.
I can't say enough positive things about Bad Boys Ahoy! The
characters are unique and you come to care about each one. In
addition, Day writes lush and unforgettable love scenes that move
the story along and keep the reader engaged.
Bad Boys Ahoy! introduces Sylvia Day as a vibrant new voice in
historical romance. Long may she write!