Genre: Historical, Romance
LGBTQ+ Category: Gay
Reviewer: Maryann
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About The Book
Gay historical romance from the Golden Age of Piracy.
Under threat of arrest, Ben fled England for the Caribbean, leaving behind everything except his hard-won skills as a gunsmith. He’s heard of the Brethren of the Coast, a rough brotherhood of men who take what they want and love where they please. If they’re welcome in Port Royal, why can’t Ben also build a life there?
But the most sinful city in the New World is a dangerous place for new arrivals. Ben is saved from a dreadful fate by Robert Lightfoot, a pirate whose ruthless nature is as vivid as the scar that ruined his face. He both terrifies and enchants Ben, leading him down a path he never believed possible.
And then Rob dumps him as casually as he picked him up. Furious and hurt, Ben vows never to get entangled with pirates again.
Fate, however, has other plans. Before he knows it, a gang of pirates draw him into dangerous adventure. If he survives, Ben will never be the same again.
The second book in Radcliffe’s epic Pirates of Port Royal series.
The Review
Benjamin Dewell finds himself on a deserted island known as Palisadoes. Not only have his coins been takenm but he has not one stitch of clothing on his person – even his shoes are gone. Where is he? Will he ever get back to Port Royal?
Jamaica was a means of escape for him, and a way to start a new life. After too much liquor and being lured to this godforsaken island, he finds himself in a predicament. As he wakes from a stupor, he sees two men heading his way. Ben doesn’t understand them, but at least he may get back to Port Royal with their help.
His luck runs out when a Pirate emerges from the foliage and quickly disposes of both men. Ben figures this is the end for him as well, but the pirate, buccaneer, or just plan thief takes him with him instead. Ben feels a surge of attraction, and does what the pirate wants.
When the Pirate Robert “Rob” Lightfoot explains to Ben about the Spaniards, aka guardcosta, he shows Ben proof that he would have become part of the slave trade. Ben notices Rob’s musket, and tells him of what needs repairing. On their departure, Ben tells Rob to go to Copes Alley and find the gunsmith at Dewells Gunshop.
A few days later, Ben has gotten back to his normal life. He often thinks of Rob. He could have easily gone to the Black Dog and found the pirate, but after England and now with a new start, he has doubts. It’s too big a risk for.
Then the shop’s bell rings. Two men enter, Rob and his friend William St. John, aka Singe. Both men were crew of the Audacious under the command of the Black Wolf, which left port without them. They are in search of their friends Jeremiah Hayes, aka Hazy and Peter Forker, aka Diver Pete. Seeing Rob again, Ben decides he’s ready to take their attraction further, and it’s working out fine until Rob skips a very private dinner with Ben. Heading to the Black Dog to find Rob, he hears about Robs actions, and swears to never let pirates and thieves into his life again.
Days later, Singe returns for his musket with Hazy. When they start to compare notes, they realize Rob hasn’t been seen for days. Singe is angry that Ben doesn’t seem to care. But even though he is disappointed, Ben heads out to look for Rob. He knows just where to find Diver Pete, and Singe and Hazy do too. Ben will have to make some hard decisions and join forces with Singe and Hazy, or Rob may be lost to them all forever.
I love the “Pirates of Port Royal” series by Jules Radcliffe. Pirate Booty is the second book, a fast paced, action-packed, suspenseful, and romantic addition to the series. It’s also got the banter and humor only Pirates can bring. The story blends high seas adventure, a thriller of a battle scene, and just a touch of history.
On the cover is none other than Pirate Rob Lightfoot, such a handsome devil! Lightfoot is charming and a little rough around the edges – perfect for Benjamin Dewell. Ben is the polar opposite of Rob. He’s still got that sweet shyness and naiveté, and worries about his reputation and morality. He also really doesn’t know his own strength. The chemistry between them just works, and is very steamy.
I liked the loyalty that Singe has for Rob, but what was Singe thinking, hooking up with Diver Pete? Hazy was weirdly fun and added lots of humor to the story. Diver Pete is not just trouble, but he’s in it deep.
I highly recommend Pirate Booty for adventure, excitement and romance. And if you enjoy this one, Pirate’s Promise is the first book in the series, and there’s a spins-off series too – “Master and Mate.” I’m delighted that Radcliffe is continuing this series and can’t wait for the next adventurous story.
The Reviewer
Hi, I’m Maryann, I started life in New York, moved to New Hampshire and in 1965 uprooted again to Sacramento, California. Once I retired I moved to West Palm Beach, Florida in 2011 and just moved back to Sacramento in March of 2018. My son, his wife and step-daughter flew out to Florida and we road tripped back so they got to see sights they have never seen. New Orleans and the Grand Canyon were the highlights. Now I am back on the west coast again to stay! From a young age Ialways liked to read.
I remember going to the library and reading the “Doctor Dolittle” books by Hugh Lofting. Much later on became a big fan of the classics, Edgar Alan Poe, Mary Shelley, Bram Stoker and as time went by Agatha Christie, Ray Bradbury and Stephen Kingand many other authors.
My first M/M shifter book I read was written by Jan Irving the “Uncommon Cowboys” series from 2012. She was the first author I ever contacted and sent an email to letting her know how much I liked this series. Sometime along the way I read “Zero to the Bone”by Jane Seville, I think just about everyone has read this book!
As it stands right now I’m really into mysteries, grit, gore and “triggers” don’t bother me. But if a blurb piques my interest I will read the book.
My kindle collection eclectic and over three thousand books and my Audible collection is slowly growing. I have both the kindle and audible apps on my ipod, ipads, and MAC. So there is never an excuse not to be listening or reading.
I joined Goodreads around 2012 and started posting reviews. One day a wonderful lady, Lisa Horan of The Novel Approach, sent me an email to see if I wanted to join her review group. Joining her site was such an eye opener. I got introduce to so many new authors that write for the LGBTQ genre. Needless to say, it was heart breaking when it ended.
But I found a really great site, QRI and it’s right here in Sacramento. Last year at QSAC I actually got to meet Scott Coatsworth, Amy Lane and Jeff Adams.
