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Bad Boys Ahoy!

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Okay, so I admit I wasn't expecting much out of this anthology. Based upon quick perusals at the book store for a couple of weeks, I almost judged it too dramatic and corny. Well, I guess I learned my lesson - this book was an absolute pleasure to read. Fast paced, yet very involved storylines, made for a spectacular weekend treat.

"Stolen Pleasures" is the high seas adventure of Captain Phoenix, aka Sebastian, Lord Merrick and his bride-by-proxy Olivia. The scandalous pirate takes her father's merchant vessal hostage, and her feelings and desires in the process. When she discovers the same man is her new husband, both are shocked and not a little dismayed. Having no use for a wife, he intends to return her to London. However, neither is prepared for the feelings that each evokes in the other and soon their new found passions will not be denied. The mystery surrounding the proxy marriage is a great backdrop for Sebastian and Olivia's attraction. Villianous family members add to the story and Olivia and Sebastian develop into two very likable characters. Sebastian is surprised by Olivia's determined defense of him to his horrid father and she comes out an admirable heroine because of it.

"Lucian's Gamble" is the story of Lucian Remington, ruthless gaming club owner and angelic debutante Julienne La Coeur. From across a crowded ball room, their passions flared and from the first look, both were instantly drawn to one another. Julienne's brother, Hugh, owes Lucian a scandalous amount of money and it's up to her to save the family yet again. When she confronts Lucian in his own club he will use this opportunity to his advantage - or will he? Knowing he'll never be good enough for the beautiful Julienne, he instead intends to help her in obtaining a titled husband. Torn between his heart's desire and the determination to do the right thing, Lucian will be up against the biggest gamble of his life - love. This was by far my most favorite of the three. I absolutely loved Lucian's rakish facade! There was such a wonderful, emotional and honest man lurking under his carefully disdainful attitude. Julienne was marvelous for him, a true lady that was capable of seeing the real man underneath. Truly a wonderful story that I wanted much more of. Would have been great to see these two characters in a full length book. Marvelous character interactions and breathtaking emotions packed into such a short format made it a great read.

"Her Mad Grace" tells the complicated love story of Hugh La Couer and the reclusive Charlotte. Stranded by an unfortunate mishap in the country, with bad weather threatening, Hugh takes shelter at the only nearby residence. Rumored to be inhabited by a mad duchess, he's ready to believe it with the misfit servants in residence. What he's not expecting is the bold and fiery Charlotte, who completely and utterly fascinates him and livens his enforced rustication as only a beautiful woman can. Add in the mystery surrounding the "mad" duchess and the story makes for a very entertaining read. Hugh was not what I was expecting, as he's portrayed as a dissolute and irresponsible rake in the previous short, one that gambles his family into near poverty. This story takes place several years later, and thankfully we get a very different, better version of Hugh. Charlotte was an interesting woman, one forced to make some difficult decisions in some very complicated circumstances.

All in all, a wonderful first experience by Sylvia Day! I can't wait to see what she puts to paper next. While I was expecting to get nothing but lively and raunchy tales of lusty pirates (The title implies we're getting pirate tales, but only one has anything to do with pirates), I wasn't disappointed in the least. They were all lively, all full of dashing and sexy heros and very, very good plots for such short reads. Excellent and very highly recommended.

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 unique 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!

Ms. Day did a wonderful job with this book. I loved each and every story. I'd buy more of her work. Great job Ms. Day.

Stolen Pleasures

Olivia has come face to face with a pirate moments after he has captured her father's ship. Apparently the pirate is her husband. Two weeks prior Olivia was married to Lord Sebastian Merrick via proxy. Olivia has no idea what her new husband looks like and the handsome man before her bears the signet ring of Lord Merrick. Their fevered attraction toward each other is undeniable and unstoppable. Sebastian frees Olivia's passion and Olivia creates a desire in Sebastian he has never experienced before. Sebastian left his title behind and became a pirate because of the horrible relationship he has with his father and so he feels he has nothing to offer a woman as good and kind as Olivia. Yet Sebastian craves her with an intensity that staggers him. Olivia is not giving up. She found her husband and intends to keep him; all she has to do now is convince him he's worth it. Sebastian must sever the bad ties he has acquired before he can settle down with Olivia. But when he is done, will his beautiful and loving wife still be waiting for him?

Stolen Pleasures is exciting and erotic. Sebastian is incredibly sexy while Olivia is beautiful and strong willed, together they make a perfect match. I hoped and prayed that Sebastian would find happiness after having so much pain in his past and I wished that Olivia would be the one to bring it to him. I adored them together. This is a really romantic, fantasy filled story. Olivia is being held captive by the handsome pirate who just happens to be her husband so nothing is forbidden. Yum! There is a lot of passion and emotion in Stolen Pleasures I really enjoyed it.

Lucien's Gamble

Lady Julienne has disguised herself as a man to enter a gentleman's club in search of her brother Hugh. Almost immediately Lucien, the proprietor of the club spots her and whisks her out of the room. After she confides to Lucien why she is there, Lucien has her escorted to a room where she is to spend the night. Julienne has always been fascinated and attracted to Lucien, but he is a notorious rake so she has avoided him. Lucien has wanted Julienne since he first saw her but she is untouchable to a man like him. Now that she is near him, his good intentions to leave her alone are wiped away by his desire for her. Lucien manages not to ravage her, but he does indulge in pleasuring her. When Julienne leaves with out saying goodbye the next morning, Lucien is distraught. Lucien and Julienne are clearly deeply attracted to each other but they feel they cannot be together. Julienne needs to help her brother and so Lucien sees a way to get close to her through him. Although she loves him, Julienne does not think Lucien could be faithful. She enjoys the courtship but does not think it will go any farther. But once Lucien realizes his true feelings for Julienne he has no intention of letting her go. He is ready and eager to leave his rakish ways behind. Now, he just has to convince Julienne of it.

Lucien's Gamble takes you on an emotional roller coaster. Lucien is like forbidden fruit to Julienne. He is strikingly handsome and charming to boot. Julienne is a beautiful young woman who craves the love and passion she has never felt before. There are moments when Lucien's love and desire for Julienne is staggering in its intensity. His feelings of hopelessness and sadness at the thought of not being with her are heartbreaking. This story is captivating and passionate. I was relieved and elated that Lucien and Julienne were able to make their relationship work.

Her Mad Grace

Hugh needs help; the wheel of his carriage has broken and the nearest house is the dilapidated one in front of him. Entering the home, he discovers it belongs to the woman known as `Her Mad Grace'. The house is inhabited by odd servants. Charlotte, by far, is the most intriguing one to Hugh. She is beautiful and confident and he is drawn to her with a deep desire he has never before experienced. Considering his past rakish ways, that is saying a lot. Charlotte is hopelessly drawn to Hugh as well. But she has secrets and can't afford for Hugh to discover them. Once they give into their passion for each other, Hugh senses something is amiss. He is determined to find out what it is and help Charlotte. When Hugh learns the whole truth, he is even more determined to help her. Because now he knows he loves Charlotte and he doesn't want to let her go. Charlotte has trouble trusting and with her heart breaking she pushes Hugh away. When she finally realizes what she wants, will it be too late, or has she lost the man she now realizes she has loved all along?

Charlotte falls head over heals for Hugh. At first in lust and then in love. She is a charming woman. Despite her experience with men, Charlotte is endearing in this new relationship with Hugh. Hugh's desperation for Charlotte to see him as a better man is profound. I really enjoyed Charlotte and Hugh. They are very sincere characters. Their passion and caring for each other is intense and beautiful. They are both tender and erotic lovers. I loved the mystery and the passion in this story. It is captivating.

Each story in Bad boys Ahoy starts at the moment the main the characters meet. I really liked that, I was drawn into the stories right away. I also liked how all of the characters were connected. Sylvia Day did a wonderful job expressing the emotions and feelings of the characters, especially the men. I felt the depth of their love and at times, the anguish for their women. Each woman in turn, is strong and beautiful. They are very well suited couples. I prefer not to read about a man's prior or current dalliances but the men did a good job distracting me once they set their minds and their hearts to these lovely ladies. Bad Boys Ahoy is powerfully arousing and deeply emotional. I highly recommend it!


Nannette
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed

Sylvia Day's Bad Boys Ahoy is a wickedly delightful anthology.

Sebastian Blake, in Stolen Pleasures is shocked to find the woman he captured off a recent raid on a merchant ship is claiming to be his bride. After a much-heated debate between them, the marriage by proxy seems to be true. Sebastian decides to return Lady Olivia back to London for he has no need for a wife. But Olivia is the most compelling female he has ever known and Sebastian takes her to their marriage bed. Olivia after coming to terms that this wildly handsome pirate is actually her husband she vows to be the very best wife to him. She is shocked that he leaves her after taken her back to London but she is willing to fight for this marriage when Sebastian returns. These two see beyond the surface in each other and find a love worth fighting to keep.

Lucien's Gamble has Lucien Remington finding the most fascinating woman sneaking into his all male gambling hall dressed as a man. Seems Lady Julienne La Coeur has to pick up the pieces again after her younger brother Hugh has rung up some serious gambling losses. Lucien tries to fight his unusual attraction to this young woman by finding her a suitable marriage. Julienne only wants one man and that is Lucien, can she convince him that she doesn't care that he was born on the wrong side of the blanket? Lucien once he decides that he is the man for Julienne he uses his all his charm to convince her.

Huge La Coeur finds himself stranded outside a run down estate in Her Mad Grace. The household staff is the strangest he has ever run across but with a server storm coming he must ask for assistance. A gorgeous creature by the name of Charlotte offers him her home for the night. One night turns into several and Hugh and Charlotte give in to the passion that they cannot deny. Hugh offers to take Charlotte away from it all but he doesn't understand her reasons for staying. The scene when Charlotte professes her love will stay with you for a long time.

Bad Boys Ahoy is treat, all three stories are richly sensual as well as deeply moving. You find yourself drawn into each story and not wanting them to end. I am not normally a historical reader but this book made a believer out of me. Kudos.

"Stolen Pleasures"

Imagine Captain Phoenix's surprise when the bride he steals aboard his ship is actually his own! Sebastian Blake finds the woman before him to be utterly intoxicating, and he rather likes the idea that this ravishing creature is all his, though he's not crazy about the idea of having a wife when he'd much rather have the sea as his mistress. Yet he is unbelievably tempted by this fiery woman who seems unafraid of him. Touching her is like touching a live flame, and before too long, they are both caught up in the blaze....

Olivia Merrick, Countess of Merrick, is dismayed to find herself on a pirate ship, yet fascinated with the man standing before her, claiming to be her husband, whom she's never met. At first she doesn't believe this breath-taking man straight out of her fantasies is her betrothed, but before much time passes, she longs for it to be true. He makes her feel a passion she never knew existed. But what touches her most is the vulnerable side he lets her see, and when she does, her heart melts. Her pirate is a wonderful man, worthy of love. If only he'd believe that, then maybe they can find their happily-ever-after.....


"Lucien's Gamble"

Libertine Lucien Remington is not the sort of man a respectable lady should be in the presence of, but Julienne La Coeur finds herself in that exact situation while in pursuit of her irresponsible brother. In disguise, or so she thinks, Julienne visits Lucien's gambling club, hoping to track down her incorrigible sibling, and winds up in the arms of a dangerously exciting man, one who intrigues her. Lucien has been drawn to the lovely Julienne from the moment she smiled at him. Never has a woman captivated him so thoroughly, yet the small part of him that is still a gentleman knows that Julienne is in need of a husband, so he makes it his mission to help her find a suitable match.

Meanwhile, Julienne is caught up in the attraction she feels for Lucien, knowing he can never marry her, but wanting to know his passion, needing to feel alive before she commits to marriage with a man she doesn't love. The feelings she has for Lucien will create memories she hopes will last a lifetime.

It kills Lucien to think of Julienne with another man, but what choice does he have? He has nothing to offer her, and that alone is enough to keep him from asking for her hand. But what she makes him feel is beyond anything he's ever experienced. She is magnificent, and Lucien doesn't know if he can ever let her go. Maybe, just maybe, if love has anything to do with it, he won't have to....

"Her Mad Grace"

Hugh La Coeur cursed his bad luck when he's forced by a snowstorm to seek shelter at a delapidated mansion with a group of misfits that leaves him nervous and anxious to leave. That is, until he meets Charlotte, the duchess's independent and pragmatic companion, then he can't think of any reason why he shouldn't stay. But the lovely, spirited lady is keeping secrets from him, and he wants to know why. Caught up in the sensuality between them, Hugh is distracted by his constant need of Charlotte, even to the point of just having to be around her. Eventually he is lead to an opportunity to find out more, and discovers that not only has Charlotte been keeping secrets, she's also involved in a bit of a mystery that could solve all her problems. Intrigued, Hugh decides to help the stubborn wench, whether she likes it or not.

Charlotte is not naive, and knows that it's her looks that attract the devilish Earl of Montrose. Having to take care of herself and the many others in residence at the mansion and doesn't have time to waste on foolish dreams, no matter how much she wishes it were otherwise. Too many people depend on her, and as much as she enjoys being with Hugh, she knows it's only a temporary arrangement. She is afraid to depend on anyone, no matter how sincere they may seem. In her circumstances, she must do what needs to be done to secure a future for herself and the others she takes care of. Falling in love doesn't fit with her plans, but sometimes you have to have a little faith, especially when it comes to matters of the heart....


I believe I have found a new favorite author! Sylvia Day writes exactly the type of stories I love to read: intensely emotional, extremely sensual, and romantic love scenes with an erotic edge. The connection between her characters is apparent right from the beginning, and I feel like I am right there, right in the action, my heart aching then rejoicing at the happy endings. Sylvia draws out the sexual tension so wonderfully that it reminds me of my favorite classics on my keeper shelf. I highly recommend her stories.

I typically don't like mini stories, but this book changed my mind. The first story read like an entire book. I was swept away with the characters at sea. The second and third story had some of the same characters. I would recommend it on the weight of the first 2 stories.

I did not want this book to end! It was very well written and I loved the colorful sexy heroes and their ladies. The three stories were wonderful and could each stand on their own. I thought the sensuality in these stories was sizzling, and I can not wait to read more from Ms. Day.

STOLEN PLEASURES Imagine Sebastian Blake's surprise when he finds that he has just stolen his own wife from the ship he has just overtaken and pillaged. Although he is the most gorgeous man she has ever seen, Olivia doesn't want to believe that this dangerous pirate is the man she married by proxy just two weeks prior. After all, why would the Earl of Merrick be out pirating on the high seas? When Sebastian shows her that her wedding ring bears the same family crest as his own ring, it appears to be undeniable. Sebastian thinks that he will simply return Olivia and her father's ship to his care, but Olivia has other ideas. Despite the fact that the two of them have been deceived in this marriage, she wants to remain married to Sebastian, run his household and bear his children, while retaining more independence than she could possibly ask for in a conventional marriage. The two vow to remain together and their passion for one another is unending. Sebastian almost immediately disappears on his ship with a promise to return, and Olivia is left with a broken heart. By the time he returns, Olivia has been forced to face society on her own, some questioning the Earl of Merrick's existence, and she is furious. Sebastian fears for their future together and whether he can salvage his wife's love. Sebastian and Olivia are perfect for each other, his protectiveness of her is touching, and her adoration of him is equally heartwarming. LUCIEN'S GAMBLE Lucien Remington is astounded at the brazenness of the beautiful young woman standing boldly in front of him in the office of his gentleman's club, dressed as a man no less. Julienne has come to his club in hopes of finding her brother, Hugh, and dragging him home before he gambles their family into even deeper debt. Lucien decides that he must find Julienne a suitable husband, but none of the names his solicitor comes up with will do. Eventually Lucien decides that he is the one who should court Julienne and quickly convinces her brother to assist him in his efforts in turn Lucien will excuse his gambling debts, one favor at a time. He fears that he may be too late in attempting to win Julienne's affections as there is another man, equally willing and able to take care of Julienne, who seeks her hand. Lucien is the product of a non-conventional love affair and has no title to offer Julienne, making him even more determined to prove that his love for her is true. Lucien and Julienne are absolutely adorable together. Both are unashamedly passionate and Lucien has to convince Julienne that he is willing to put his wicked ways behind him, which proves to be no easy task. Julienne wants to believe Lucien, but her love for him is so strong that she knows that her heart would break should he ever be unfaithful. HER MAD GRACE When Hugh Le Coeur finds himself stranded with a broken carriage wheel, his servant and his horse both injured, winter storm impending, he is forced to go to a nearby manor, the likes of which would have made a lesser man turn and flee. Dark and unkempt, it is the very stuff of haunted tales, and the house staff is the most improbable mix of misfits that he has ever seen. When a beautiful redhead by the name of Charlotte shows up with a carriage and men to assist him in fetching his servant, he is taken by her beauty. She insists that he spend the night, given the coming blizzard and when that one night turns into several, with the storm raging outside, passions ignite inside and Hugh and Charlotte are practically inseparable. Hugh wants to set Charlotte up as his mistress, a generous offer for sure, but she refrains for her own personal reasons. Hugh doesn't understand Charlotte's refusal, thinking she would be anxious to leave the dreadful manor and its quirky staff, but he is determined to change her mind. Sylvia Day shares her incredible writing talents with readers in this historical anthology. Her characters are excellently written, blatantly erotic with rich, sensuous detail. I was reminded of the writings of Nicole Jordan while reading this collection of scorching tales, and I can easily give a high recommendation to all lovers of erotic historical romance.

i thought BAD BOY AHOY was a wonderful book, and it goes into my tbr AGAIN shelf! i truly loved how even though was historical , it could have been todays romances , strong women! and 3 storys in one, love love lovedddddd it! 'her mad grace" ws the best of the 3 i thought personally! ive read 'catching caroline" by ms day and already love her writing! and cant wait to read her vampires romances!! thankfully there are writers like ms day who can make the world disappear for short time thru her writings!