The Captain's Daughter

4.5 stars
I truly enjoyed this new release by a new-to-me author. I kept trying to get a copy through the library and finally caved and bought it, and am quite glad I did, as it's definitely a series I intend to keep reading.

I loved the historical show biz parts! I mean, Gilbert and Sullivan? H.M.S. Pinafore and the debut of Pirates of the Penzance? Oh, yeah. And having real characters like Jessie Bond in it made it even more fun.

I also liked the romance. Not too smooch, but definitely heartfelt...exactly the way I like it best.

The heroine's background also played a huge part, as well as her faith. It's not every day you find a book where the characters actually stop and talk to God about what's going on in their lives, and have such a strong thread of trusting God in everything. It made her background of growing up in Müller's orphanage feel so much more authentic.

I loved the Moran family! All of them are so warm-hearted and welcoming, and of course the hero is the best. He's got some pretty strong stuff to work through, himself, and his family loves him enough to not cut him a bit of slack. Made for some great scenes!

The two things I didn't like so well were some instances of “for heaven's sakes” being used way too lightly, and Tony. Tony was a slimy worm and not fun to read about, and I just knew he was up to no good, and yet Rosalyn continues to try to be nice to him.

I'll definitely be looking forward to her sister Julia's story next year!