I tried so hard to get through this book. I loved the concept and the reviews seemed positive… but I just couldn’t do it.

The initial characterization of the protagonist was random and only occasionally part of the plot (she was single- then she had a son and a daughter-in-law- then she was a free spirit- then she was kissing a woman- then she was showering the captain- then she wasn’t-then… you get the point).

I love the sea voyage idea. I am currently living on my sailboat, cruising the northeast, so I am the target audience! Nevertheless, the unconnected events and disjointed plot just made this book ultimately unreadable. I would love to give editing notes, as I think this draft has potential- but first the author has to decide if she is writing a romance, erotica, or a finding oneself book. Oy.

Thanks, Net Galley, for the early access!

5 stars

An intriguing story with an older hero/heroine. In fact if Captain sailed to the islands in 1969 that could make him around 70. Jess is an experienced chef that decides to make a big change and go as a live aboard cook. At the start Captain appears to be a bit of player and flirt. He has to return to LA to see his doctor regularily and I'm not sure that this is fully explained. He is a widower who has guilt over his wife's demise. There are an interesting selection of other characters that crew the boat.

This is a new author for me I think it very much comes from her own experience. It would have been interesting to track the journey made on google earth.

Realistic and recommend.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own

Actual Rating: 2.5 stars

I'm a SUPER FAN of Below Deck. So when I saw that Aesha Scott gave this a blurb review - it was an instant request.

What I enjoyed: the sailing, the attention to detail about life at sea, and each of the islands the crew visits. It was a lovely adventure which the author captured perfectly. This part is where the stars comes in. I really did like this aspect.

What I didn't like: the romance. Yes - there was tension and lots of angst BUT there was also some super weird dynamics. I prefer my romance arcs without the main characters sleeping with other people. I also prefer a MMC who doesn't shame the woman he's 'in love with' when she tells him about a crew member (very nearly) assaulting her. Also, there were some descriptions of islanders, cultures, and histories that had me tempted to DNF.

The Captain’s Cook is an absolute delight from start to finish—a richly imagined blend of historical intrigue, slow-burn romance, and a dash of seafaring adventure that completely swept me away. Victoria Vanransom’s writing is immersive and atmospheric, transporting readers straight onto the deck of a ship where power, desire, and secrets simmer just beneath the surface.

What stood out most to me was Vanransom’s attention to detail. The setting feels vividly authentic without being weighed down by historical exposition. You can practically taste the salt air, hear the creak of wood underfoot, and sense the tension between characters with every interaction. The author masterfully balances the harsh realities of life at sea with moments of tenderness, wit, and vulnerability.

The characters are the heart of the story. Both the captain and the cook are fully realized, layered individuals whose chemistry is undeniable yet refreshingly complex. I loved watching their relationship unfold in a way that felt earned, with emotional depth and a gradual build-up that kept me eagerly turning pages.

Vanransom also weaves in themes of identity, trust, and resilience, adding meaningful substance to the narrative without slowing its momentum. The pacing is just right, steadily engaging with enough intrigue and emotional stakes to keep you invested.

In short, The Captain’s Cook is a beautifully written, character-driven story that will appeal to readers who love historical fiction with a romantic core and a touch of adventure. I can’t wait to read more from Victoria Vanransom—her storytelling is captivating, and her characters linger long after the last page.