It's so nice to read a Regency romance novel that has a more unusual premise and setting than the usual house party/London season background. This story is set aboard a British naval frigate in 1810, with a heroine, Georgana Woodall, who's been working on the ship for three years in disguise as a boy named George Taylor. Her father, the ship's captain, brought her on board as his cabin "boy" to get her away from her grandmother's abusive guardianship after his wife's death. Now that Georgana is 18 it's becoming harder to hide that she's a young woman, and she's grown weary of keeping secrets and of the harsh life at sea.

The ship's new first officer, Lieutenant Dominic Peyton, is passionate about life at sea and is ambitious to become a captain with a ship of his own. He's a kind leader and a good man, so when he notices George being bullied he takes George under his wing - teaching her how to fight back against the bullies, encouraging her to find another career for herself since George clearly doesn't share his naval ambitions, and generally acting as a mentor - all while having no idea his protegée is a girl. Georgana finds herself developing feelings for Dominic, which of course she has to keep under wraps. Then one day Dominic learns the truth...

In addition to the romance, which is lovely, I really enjoyed the adventurous, seafaring aspect of the book as the ship's crew battles privateers, onboard contagions, and a rebellious officer who stirs up trouble among the men. It impresses me when authors can describe 19th century shipboard life, the workings and layout of a naval frigate, and battle scenes all while keeping the story moving and interesting. The author, Arlem Hawks, did a really good job with that. The supporting cast of characters is well-written, especially George's father, Captain Woodall, who goes through a lot in the story.

I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading future historical romances by Hawks.