I recently finished the excellent "Raised By Wolves" series, and realized I wasn't ready to leave the Brethren. Fortunately, Tachna's newest historical romance came out just in time! It is set in roughly the same time and place, and follows four men as they evolve from pirates into privateers (mercenaries), and find love in the process.

The author has obviously researched the period, as the tone and details easily pull a reader into the time. However, this is very much a romance, albeit in a historical setting. The story is simple, the relationships are not. Amery, Gavin and Quinn have been friends since they were children on their first ship together, but their experiences have shaped them into very different men. This is especially true for Gavin and Quinn who both suffered abuse and rape after being captured by Spanish slavers - something Amery doesn't truly understand. When they capture a slave ship, Eliodoro joins their crew and Gavin and Amery are torn apart by a devastating secret. Quinn must choose between his unrequited love for Gavin, and his attraction to their new crewmate.

Overall, this was a very enjoyable story. All four men, and their relationships, are well developed. The sex is frequent but does not encompass the entire story, and I liked the characters. Though it could have been more detailed in the battle scenes and plot (why did the company offer Amery such a fine ship?), I didn't feel it was short-changed. A sequel would not be amiss, however. And, I LOVE the cover art! Recommended. ( )