The Captain's Daughter

Author: Jennifer Delamere
Genre: Historical Romance

​London, 1879

Forced to Leave All She Loves Behind, She Seeks a New Life in a City Bursting with Opportunity, But Fraught with Danger

When a series of circumstances beyond her control leaves Rosalyn Bernay alone and penniless in London, she chances upon a job backstage at a theater putting on the most popular show in the city. A talented musician and singer, she feels immediately at home and soon becomes enthralled with the idea of pursuing a career on the stage. That is, as long as the shadows from her past don't catch up with her.

After a hand injury forces Nate Moran from his army regiment in India, he returns home to London, a place that holds bitter memories. He agrees to fill in temporarily as a stagehand while his brother recuperates from a broken leg, but Nate is counting down the days until he can rejoin his regiment. His future is decided--until he meets a beautiful woman who has found a new lease on life in the very place Nate yearns to leave behind.

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Reviewer: Becky Hrivnak

The Captain's Daughter, written by Jennifer Delamere, is book 1 of London Beginnings.

This is the first I've read of Delamere's books. I was pleased in the setting and the character development. I always have loved this era and Delamere's creative qualities in the book. I loved how she merged three of her passions and interests into the book...the operettas of Gilbert and Sullivan, Victoria England and the children's home of George Muller. 

I think my favorite character was Nate. He was pretty awesome from the start! He was always thinking of others. I liked Rosalyn, but she seemed almost too naive through most of the book. I realize she grew up in a sheltered life, for the most part. She was a sweet girl and very lovely.

I'm looking forward to the next books as I think as this author grows this family we'll see some pretty awesome results!

I would recommend this book for teens on up. Clean, lightly inspirational, not preachy, and a fun view of a group of people and time/place that I've not read much positive about.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

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Reviewer: Olivia R.

Since my sister shares the same name as the heroine, I knew I had to pick this one up! I was not disappointed-the London and theater setting pulled me in at once. I loved all the British terms used, and the old-fashioned atmosphere!

The characters were unique and interesting to me. At times I grew frustrated with Rosalyn's interaction with Tony, but I'm glad she learned valuable lessons by the end. I thoroughly enjoyed Nate's character, as well as his family. Patrick's brotherly wisdom made me smile! I loved the mention of George Mueller and Gilbert and Sullivan's interactions were too funny! I'm intrigued to see where Julia's story leads, and maybe a tid-bit more into Rosalyn's life in the sequel.

I would have liked to see the couple come together a little sooner than they did, rather than right at the end, especially since there was misunderstanding all the way up to the last chapter! The spiritual message was profound and part of the character's lives, although I would have liked to see a little more of a Salvation message. 

There were a few mentions of inappropriate behavior, but I never felt uncomfortable and I appreciate the author writing these things in a discreet light. There were a few kisses at the end that were non-detailed.

This was a sweet, romance with touches of historical events, and I'm looking forward to reading more by this author!

​Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

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Reviewer: Rebecca Maney

" . . daydreams turned to sad longing when the years passed and their father never came home." 

Rosalyn Bernay and her two sisters were deeply impacted by the mysterious disappearance of their father at sea and subsequent death of their mother. Raised for many years in George Muller's famous orphanage, Rosalyn embarks on her own at the age of seventeen, only to discover that life in the home of an elite employer can turn quite ugly. Forced out onto the streets amidst swirling accusations, she barely avoids ruin before happening upon simple employment at the respectable Opera Comique, where her path crosses that of soldier-turned-stage-assistant Nate Moran, for the second time in as many days.

Nate Moran is terribly relieved to see that the young woman over whom he has worried, has escaped the clutches of ill repute and is comfortably ensconced with reputable theater associates. Rosalyn is an enigma, with her quiet charm and obvious secrets, as she glides into the opportunity set before her with innocence and grace. As is so often the case, a lovely woman attracts attention, and Nate is not the only one in the cast with an eye turned towards Rosalyn. Unfortunately, Nate already plans to return to his career in the military, once his hand is completely healed; following his commission to India. . . . . without a wife. 

What a lovely slice of history during nineteenth century Victorian England; including a glimpse into the world of Gilbert and Sullivan productions, the broad impact that George Muller made upon thousands of orphaned children, and the waves of change being introduced by women entering the work place. Tucked in between, is a sweet romance.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions stated are entirely my own.

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Reviewer: Laura J. Davis

I loved, loved, loved this book! I simply could not put it down. I loved how the characters developed and grew. The story flowed just right and included reminders to us all that God does provide.

The author took real life person George Mueller (who built orphanages by prayer alone) and wove him into the background of the story, but created his example of trusting in God to provide, in the main character of Rosalyn. Very creative!

The author did an excellent job of bringing me into "the theatre" where the story largely takes place. As someone who worked behind the scenes and on stage in my younger days I could quite literally feel the excitement of the cast of characters. 

All in all a very enjoyable read and a sweet romance as well. I highly recommend  this book!

​Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

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Reviewer: Sabrina Wade

Fascinating, enthralling, uplifting with a happily-ever-after. Oh what it would be like to live with absolute faith and trust that no matter what falls at my feet, the Lord will provide! Delamere did an exceptional job displaying this truth throughout the novel. While fictional, if we take the time to look back over our own journeys​ will we see The Good Lord's hand in everything. It may not always end as sweetly as it did for The Captain's Daughter, Rosalyn, it may end with a heavy burden lifted as it did for Nate. Don't take my word, get your copy!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

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