A Pirate's Promise 

by Jules Radcliffe 

5 out of 5 

Synopsis 

The Caribbean, 1664

Press-ganged as a boy, Job Wright has spent years as a captive on a merchant ship plying the Atlantic trade routes, until one day musketeer Garrett Dubh, a crewman of the buccaneer ship Audacious, rescues him.

Garrett takes Job under his wing, and they become firm friends. It's the first real friendship Job can recall having. He is fascinated by the handsome pirate, however, and he longs for more than just kindness between them.

Determined to prove his worth to Garrett, Job goes to lengths that might just cause serious trouble in the French pirate haven of Tortuga. He fears he’s bitten off more than he can chew--and this time, Garrett isn’t there to save him from danger. 

Review 

When Job's ship is attacked by pirates, he sees an end to the years of abuse, even if that end is death.

Garrett stops his shipmate from killing the boy, and he can't deny the attraction between them.

I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

Job has had no luck in his young life. He was pressed into service on his first ship, little better than a slave; then captured by the Spanish. Between them both, he suffered years of abuse, used so much by sailors that he thought that was all everyone would want from him.

When pirates attack his ship, he takes the opportunity to kill one of his Spanish abusers; before he is swept up by the crew of the Audacious, and has to learn how to interact with honourable men.

Garrett is drawn to the handsome young man, but knowing his history, he knows that it would be wrong to take advantage of him. He's convinced himself that any affection Job shows him is merely gratitude for saving his life.

I really enjoyed this little book. For such a short story, it creates strong characters, a vibrant world of pirates and ports. It is incredibly steamy, but that doesn't overwhelm the budding romance between Garrett and Job. For murderous pirates - it was kinda sweet!

It also feels historically-accurate and respectful of the times.

Overall, this was a fast, fun read; and I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.

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