The Pirate Bride, by Kathleen Y’Barbo, is the second book of the Daughters of the Mayflower series.

I wish I could give this book two separate ratings – one for part one of the story and another for part two. The beginning pulled me in and I found young Maribel’s story compelling. The second part seemed a tad rushed and wrapped up a little quickly. That’s not to say there weren’t exciting and page-turning aspects in much of the story.

I really enjoyed the historical aspects of the first book of the series (The Mayflower Bride) but the ‘pirate’ aspect of this one didn’t draw me in as deeply. I had a more difficult time sympathizing with the characters. I suppose much of that is the age of Maribel through most of the story. Her youth isn’t really the issue, but the age difference between her and Captain Beaumont is. I know it’s fiction, but I couldn’t get past that gnawing matter.

This is a relatively quick read for those who are interested in historical pirate stories (such as Pirates of the Caribbean.)

3 Stars

Cover: Love
Title: Love
Pages: 256
Series: Daughters of the Mayflower #2
Publisher: Barbour Books
ISBN: 978-1683224976
First Line: Mama may have been named for the great-grandmother who traveled from England on the Mayflower, but that fact certainly did not keep her in the land of her birth.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a review.

This is the first novel I've read by Kathleen Y'Barbo. I found the title interesting, the cover gorgeous, and wanted to take a chance with a new-to-me author. I'm glad I did! This was an entertaining book and although the connection to the previous book in this series was a bit of a stretch, I liked the storyline.

I found the first half of this story the most entertaining. Not as a romance, but as an adventure that featured the bravery and wit of a determined eleven-year-old and her friendship with a bit of a rough crew of men. Maribel didn't complain about her circumstances, but instead became a valuable part of the ship's crew. I also liked the way the transition from the first part to the second part was made as Maribel grew into adulthood and Jean-Luc went from ship captain to attorney, even though there are not a lot of details on those years. The only part I struggled with was the last half of the novel. I won't give anything away, but it felt rushed. I wanted more development on the mystery part of the story as well as the romantic aspect. It all came together so quickly that I found it hard to be believable. It also felt a little strange for the hero/heroine to have a romantic relationship after they had a very different relationship for most of the story (he as an adult and she as a child). Overall, it was entertaining, but not for the reasons that I thought it would be....I was expecting more of a romance.

I loved the adventure in this book! I learned the important difference between a pirate and a privateer, and loved Maribel's enthusiasm for her adventure at sea. The story begins with a young Maribel being kidnapped by her absentee father who is being chased by the infamous privateer Captain Jean Beaumont. Her immediate allegiance to Jean was interesting, and he and his crew couldn't help but be won over by her bright and frank personality. There are politics, skirmishes, and intense battles that led to unexpected plot twists. The pace was swift but felt a bit disjointed as the author took large jumps forward in time and switched perspectives unevenly. I enjoyed Maribel's spunky character immensely and felt that she was very well-written. Jean's motivations for privateering were murky until the very end of the book, and I felt like it was a bit harder to get to know him, that the depths of his characters weren't fully explored, although he is likeable enough. I appreciated that this story veered from the usual clichés and took me on an adventure that kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

This book had me so excited! There were spunky heroines, dastardly relatives, and pirates... Oops, I mean "privateers." (That will make more sense after you read the book!) There was cannon fire and battles at sea, colorful supporting characters, a good plot...and then all of a sudden, there wasn't. Just as everything was starting to come together and I thought that the final scene of action was coming, the story just petered out. It wrapped up way too quickly and didn't match the exciting pace of the rest of the book. The romance came up way too quickly, especially considering the age difference between the main characters. Additionally, the antagonist was dealt with in just a few paragraphs. I was hoping for an epic pirate battle, but I was let down. The Pirate Bride could've used 15-20% more story, and then it would've been a 5-star book! As it currently stands, I'm rounding up from 3.5 to 4 stars because my attention was riveted through the whole book.

***I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley and under no obligation to provide a positive review. All opinions are my own.

The Pirate Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

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Story Notes

Kathleen Y’Barbo (what a fun last name!) presents her readers with a wonderful adventure through the era of privateering in which two people will discover that the greatest treasures in life are not gold and rare jewels.

I am a big fan of all things pirate. One of my all time favorite rides at Disneyworld is Pirates of the Carribean and when the first movie based on the ride was released, was one of the first to go see it, as well as the next three. So how perfect it was for me to be offered a book entitled “The Pirate Bride” for review? I’ll tell you – I was beyond excited and read it through in almost one sitting! I know that real “pirates” were not great heroes and rescuers but it was still fun to imagine what it would have been like to have lived in that time and with those circumstances. Ms. Y’Barbo created a wonderful story that will make readers want to join a privateering crew tomorrow. She begins her story with a young lady named Maribel who is traveling with her father, Antonio Cordoba, to Havana where he is to be the new Consul General for Spain. Maribel is grieving the recent deaths of her mother and grandfather and traveling with a man who has been her father in name only. With little to occupy her time as her father will not let her wander the ship, Maribel spends much time rereading her favorite book The Notorious Seafaring Pyrates and Their Exploits. Young and adventurous, Maribel would like nothing better than for their ship to be overtaken by pirates and herself be allowed to join their crew. Several weeks into their trip her wishes will come true but not in the way she imagined. Captain Jean Beaumont (aka Jean Luc Valmont) and his crew overtake the Cordoba’s ship with one goal in mind: vengeance for the lives of their family members Antonio Cordoba has taken. But when the smoke clears and all those on board are subdued, Captain Beaumont is confronted by a determined little Spaniard who will not take no for an answer. Jean Luc knows it is not safe for a young woman to be part of a privateering crew and attempts to place her in a secure home – with little success. Maribel has no intention of missing out on what she sees as the greatest adventure of her life and she will do whatever it takes to keep her place on board. And given her quick memorization of ship types and her exceptional vision, Jean Luc will place her in the safest place he can on board – the eagle’s nest lookout. It is while she is manning her post one night that Maribel will be crashed from her post into the sea by a cannonball from a French military ship, separating her from the captain and crew for many years. She is found after the ship is overtaken by two crewmen who managed to escape and will take her to the convent on the Isla de Santa Maria for safe keeping. As the years pass, Maribel will grow and learn much at the convent, but she will never forget her captain, Jean Luc. When the ship was overtaken, Jean Luc is gravely injured and barely survives the trip to New Orleans. Taken to his parent’s home, he will spend many months recuperating his strength and planning his future. He is heartsick over the idea that little Maribel might have been killed in the attack and has determined never to forget her name and face. When she is suddenly thrust back into his life when her’s is once again in danger, Jean Luc will have to be careful or he will lose his heart to this grown up version of his favorite crew member. Maribel is determined to stay with Jean Luc no matter the cost to herself and as she spends more time with him, she will see that her childhood hero worship has slowly turned to love for a man who would give all to keep those he loves safe from harm. It will take all their love and courage to face their enemies and come through the trials with their faith intact. Ms. Y’Barbo’s created such detailed characters for her story that her readers will feel they are on board a ship and part of the conversations. Maribel’s incessant chatter when she is nervous and Jean Luc’s exasperation with her will ensure many good laughs throughout the pages. I loved the sacrificial way in which Jean Luc took care of Maribel. He would do anything to keep her safe, even risking his own life and livelihood. She in turn was able to help him realize that revenge for past wrongs will never satisfy the resentment that is carried. We must give all hurts to God and let Him take care of those who do wrong. Maribel as well will find that forgiveness is the only way to let go of the past and keep her heart from becoming bitter. There wasn’t an amazingly deep plot to this story but I found it had just enough suspense and drama to keep me interested. Its nice to read a story that flows well but doesn’t require you to think about each thing that happens to understand the conclusion. The only thing that made me a bit confused was the rushed way that Jean Luc’s life was described between when he was injured and when he found Maribel again. It was too much information given to really tell that part of the story well so I wish Ms. Y’Barbo had given that time a bit more description. But the rest of the story was very well done and for that reason I will be highly recommending this book to others. I’m also looking forward to her next story as it has been offered to me for review in a couple of months. Here’s hoping the next book will be as wonderful as this one!

I received this E-Book free of charge from Barbour Publishing/Barbour Books via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation from either company for this review.

This is the second book in the Daughters of the Mayflower series. A wonderfully enjoyable read . I enjoyed reading about this scrap of a girl, a fiery redhead. I don't read many books taking place mostly on a ship let alone a privateer ship in the warm Caribbean. I love following the family through American history. A bit of a mystery follows the family. Likable, for the most part characters , believable plot that wrapped up nicely. It was refreshing to see Maribel Cordoba is not one of those prim and proper females simpering around males with her fan. She was her own person and stayed true to her beliefs even though her relatives tried to change her. Well done, Maribel. Looking forward to the next book in this series.
Pub Date 01 Apr 2018
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, Inc. through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

Such a wonderful book! I loved the characters, and that the book was based on piracy. Such a fun read. This book had many heart warming pages that make you smile. I highly recommend!

This book was not quite what I expected as I thought it would be about another woman who was on the Mayflower. Instead, it is about Maribel Cordoba, a descendent of Mary Chapman Lytton the heroine of Book 1. But it was a well written, high seas adventure with pirates, appealing characters, plot twists, and faith.

Maribel is a sweet tomboy, fiercely independent, intelligent, determined, unforgettable, and a bookworm. Her favorite book is about pirates and she spends many an hour of being a member of a pirate ship crew. When her much absent father spirits her away and they are forced aboard Jean'Luc's privateer ship known as the Ghost Ship, her adventures begin. Life takes unpredictable twists and turns for Maribel just like the rolling ocean she learned to love.

The romance thread was sweet with Marible dreaming often of the much older Jean-Luc; and, in turn, Jean-Luc fighting constant memories of the independent, outspoken, "I can do anything," Maribel. I felt the ending was rather rushed and somewhat predictable; but still, overall, this was a very enjoyable book.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

I enjoyed this book very much. It wasn’t as faith-based or as history-laced, but it was also written by a different author and so it had a completely different style. I loved the character Maribel Cordoba. She is a feisty, pirate-loving red-head and her quick wit will tickle your funny bone. This book was so fun and so funny! I so enjoyed the witty banter between Maribel and Jean-Luc (Captain Beaumont). Maribel is determined to join the crew aboard the “Ghost ship.” Nothing will stop her from getting her way. She is stubborn and she is brave, qualities that will not only serve her well, but will also lend to her eventual dispatch from the lookout post via cannon ball. Is it all historically accurate—not according to some reviews, but it’s fiction. Read it for entertainment, not for a history lesson about pirates and privateers. There were some things I found confusing along the way, most of them were ironed out by the end. Also, it does seem a little odd for Jean-Luc to be so madly in love with Maribel, when he hasn’t seen her in eleven years and she was just a child when she was lost at sea. While I understand her importance to the crew and their affection for the girl, it would have seemed prudent for Jean-Luc to get to know her again as the woman she became and then fall in love with her. After all, eleven years is a long time!
There is the spiritual lesson of overcoming fears and praying for strength when fear comes. There is also the topic of seeking revenge. It does not bring peace or relief. The Lord says that vengeance belongs to him. It is better to forgive and allow God to judge.

The Pirate Bride is a reader's delight with noble privateers, an island paradise, captives, mysteries, and romances! Maribel Cordova is a spunky, pirate obsessed twelve-year-old girl. Young Maribel is both completely enchanting and determinedly fearless. Jean-Luc Valmot is guided by a strong moral compass and stalwart work ethic. He leads and inspires men as he fights to right the wrongs in this world.

A stellar supporting cast, intriguing storyline, and the inclusion of fascinating historical events round out this literary treasure trove of pirate indulgence! I simply could not put this book down and I look forward to picking it up again! I highly recommend this story and it has earned a place among my all-time favorites.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.

I loved the story. The characters capture your heart and the story line keeps you on the edge of your seat

Kathleen Y’Barbo has long been recognized as an excellent writer, and that continues to be true as she crafts the latest installment of The Daughters of the Mayflower series, The Pirate Bride.
This story is unique, because a large part of it starts in Maribel’s childhood. Her adventures on the privateer ship were so fun to read about, which tempered the intensity of Jean-Luc’s own troubles.
Fast forward to the future, and you have a young woman who is still not quite proper, but fiery and fun to read about. Jean-Luc is his own fascinating character, with his day-to-day life so different from what he does secretly. There’s an instant connection when Jean-Luc and Maribel come face-to-face again, and I loved watching their relationship deepen beyond the friendship of youth to the love of two adults.
This story is colorful and fun, as it spans the seas, tropical islands, and early New Orleans. It’s flavored with unforgettable characters, and a faith that helps Maribel and Jean-Luc hold on.
I’m getting the feeling that you do not want to miss any of The Daughters of the Mayflower series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

Love this series...love this story...Enjoyable...Mysterious...Delightful...Experience it yourself...Five stars.

Fascinating concept for a book! I was really excited to read it. For the most part it met my expectations: Intriguing characters, quick enough paced plot line, some clean romance, spiritual threads, action and mystery. There were times when I felt like the book hopped around to different people and time and I had trouble following. I wish there was more of a distinction. Overall I liked the story. I like how Books in a series don’t necessarily have to be read in order. This book is the 2nd in a series but functions as a fully stand alone book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. I was under no compulsion to write a review.

This is a highly original, wonderfully written book. Ending was abrupt and I would have liked to see it drawn out more.

Cover

I loved the cover of this book. It is very elegant and intriguing. It promises a good historical fiction drama – and delivers.

The Back Story

Thanks for NetGalley for providing me an advanced free copy of this book. When I started reading, I noticed that it was actually a sequel to a previous book, written by another author, but this fact didn’t ruin the book for me at all. I believe that “The Pirate Bride” can be read and enjoyed as a stand-alone as well.

Personal Thoughts (Spoilers?)

Pirates – I was really excited to read a book about pirates, just because it coincided with my vacation in Maui. And what a better way to start a vacation than with a pirate book!? My only knowledge about pirates came from the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ movie franchise, so I was pleasantly surprised with this read. You can really sense the historical period in the writing, but its never overbearing or too overwhelming. Thus, a perfect beach read.

Romance – I liked the easy going romance in the book, which was a bit predictable but enjoyable nonetheless. I rooted for the main characters and their love story and felt for them.

Educated Lady – Maribel, the heroine, is very smart, well read, pretty and sophisticated. Her only flaw was that she liked to climb on trees to escape from other grownups and her responsibilities. Another flaw would make her more rounded as a character, and slightly more believable. Women didn’t get much education back then and she seems very bright for a girl of her time and position. I think that the author loved her heroine way too much, therefore making her a bit too perfect.

After finishing the book, which was filled with sweet romance and adventures at sea, I have to say that I would love to read more about these colorful characters and their endeavors. It is a great beach read that will transport you to another time and place!

This review first appeared here: https://svetareads.wordpress.com/2018/04/07/the-pirate-bride-book-review/

The Pirate Bride

Daughters of the Mayflower – Book 2

by Kathleen Y’Barbo

Barbour Publishing, Inc.

Barbour Books

Christian , Historical Fiction

Pub Date 01 Apr 2018

I am reviewing a copy of The Pirate Bride through Barbour Books and Netgalley:

In New Orleans a treasure goes missing and paths collide.

New Orleans attorney Jean-Luc Valmont hasn’t seen Maribel Córdoba since she was an eleven year old daughter of a Spanish nobleman . proving herself to be the best look out. But his days of infamy catch up with them all and end up costing innocent lives. Jean-Luc is unsure why he survived. He vows to do something good with his second chance.

Jean-Luc had buried his past life so deep that no living person will ever find it until a grown up Maribel Córdoba shows up threatening everything he holds dear.

I give The Pirates Bride five out of five stars!

Happy Reading

Maribela Cordova is a sweet 12-year old girl when her father whisked her away – telling her that her mother and grandfather were dead. While on board the ship, they are attacked, her father presumably dead and she is taken to Captain Jean-Luc’s ship. When a mishap sends her sailing into the water, Maribela and Jean-Luc are separated and do not see each other for eleven years. Maribela has always thought about Jean-Luc. Likewise, Maribela has always been on Jean-Luc’s mind, especially after he lost his wife and child, but when he sees her again, the spark is re-ignited. Can love span eleven years? Great historical fiction read. I love the way the author included historical facts from which parts of the story bloomed. There is historical fiction, romance, Christian fiction, and adventure in this one. I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley but this in no way sways my review.

My review is 4.5 Stars

Privateer, not pirate! At least that is what Captain Beaumont would tell you. The author explains that there is a fine line between the two, but not necessarily one big enough to keep either one from hanging if caught by the right person.

I loved this fun adventure that follows Maribel from the time she is just 11 years old, crossing the Atlantic with her father after the death of her mother and grandfather. It is on this journey that their ship is attacked by pirates, um, privateers, and she ends up spending the next two months on their ship, charming each of the men of the crew.

Quote from book:

“Considering what I’ve heard, I’d agree, Miss Maribel.” He nodded toward the corridor ahead. “Now follow me or you’ll get lost. And remember you just decided you’d follow orders from now on.”

“Yes I did, Mr. Bennett, but I feel like I ought to warn you about me. See, what I decide to do and what I turn out to do is not always the same thing. So if I don’t follow orders very well right now, I would like you to know I will only get better at it the longer I keep trying. I’m working on it, but I’ve got a long way to go.”

Again he chuckled. “Miss Maribel, you and me both. You and me both.”

The characters in this book were wonderful! From the feisty and precocious, Maribel to the gentleman privateer, Jean, to the former slave, Mr. Bennett and the rest of the crew, each one was developed so well you couldn’t help but feel that you knew them. There were many twists and turns in this story, with many things not what they seemed.

This second installment of The Mayflower Brides series was a very enjoyable read. The common thread in these stories is one of family, allowing each book to stand by itself, though the first book was enjoyable as well, so it makes sense to read them all.


This review was originally posted on AmongTheReads.net


I would like to thank Netgalley for giving me this item. My opinion and review were not influenced by this gift.

I enjoyed this story far more than I liked the first book, but it definitely isn't the greatest plot or character wise. I definitely think it was a improvement writing wise and I liked the characters and plot more than the first book in the series.