Book Review of Georgana’s Secret by Arlem Hawks
Part seafaring adventure, part Regency Romance, Arlem Hawks’ debut novel is an engaging love story that keeps you hooked from beginning to end. It’s a clean romance with characters that quickly win your heart.
The Story
Georgana Woodall, disguised as a cabin boy named George on the Royal Navy Ship HMS Deborah, is trying to escape her abusive grandmother under her protective father’s command. After three years of living in disguise, she meets Lieutenant Dominic Peyton, and a close friendship begins to develop between them. As they spend more time together, Georgana finds herself falling for the compassionate and charming Lieutenant Peyton.
With time, it becomes clear to Peyton that George is actually Georgana. The dilemma then becomes whether he should confront her about his discovery or keep her secret to maintain their bond.
Life on a Royal Navy Ship is filled with danger and betrayal. In this challenging environment, Georgana must find her own courage and voice.
Georgana’s Secret Book Review
The novel masterfully alternates between the perspectives of Georgana and Dominic, offering a deep dive into their character development and inner thoughts. This switch makes the book even more engaging as readers anticipate when the characters will be on the same page.
Stylistically, the book blends Austen-like charm with the adventurous spirit of high seas tales. It even draws favorable comparisons to the romance between Nat and Kit in “The Witch of Blackbird Pond.”
Arlem Hawks showcases her talent for prose, characterization, and creating believable romance, making her a standout author in the historical romance genre. This book is ideal for readers who appreciate heartfelt love stories with an authentic touch. It strikes a perfect balance between emotion and adventure without becoming overly sentimental.
Overall Thoughts
Arlem Hawks’ debut is a captivating romance filled with well-developed characters, believable antagonists, and thrilling action. “Georgana’s Secret” is a quick, enjoyable read, perfect for fans of Jane Austen, clean romance, or adventure novels.
Adaptation Recommendation
“Georgana’s Secret” would make an excellent film, thanks to its well-structured plot and continuous action. The intriguing characters and adventurous scenes would translate wonderfully on the big screen.
Content Note
The novel is a clean read with some mild adventure-related violence and references to emotional abuse.
Official Book Description
Georgana Woodall dreamed of a life filled with beautiful dresses, fancy balls, and falling in love. But after her mother’s death, she chooses to avoid life under her abusive grandmother’s guardianship by joining her father on his ship, disguised as the cabin boy, “George.”
Lieutenant Dominic Peyton is highly dedicated to His Majesty’s Royal Navy, leaving no room in his life for love. While acclimating to a new crew, he strives to be an exemplary officer and leader. When he notices the captain’s cabin boy being mistreated by the crew, Dominic steps in and takes the “boy” under his protection. Piecing together various clues, Dominic realizes that George is actually a woman. Understanding the danger she would face if her secret were revealed to the crew, Dominic keeps her identity concealed while his affection for her grows.
As Georgana becomes increasingly fond of Dominic’s kindness, she remains convinced that her feelings cannot lead anywhere. Her life at sea is no longer tenable, and having missed many social seasons in London, rejoining society and finding a suitable husband seem unlikely.
Author Bio
Arlem Hawks has been creating stories since before she could write. Extensive travel and a love for history, particularly of her English heritage, inspire her work. When not writing, Arlem enjoys baking her characters’ favorite foods, sewing Regency dresses, learning to play the tin whistle, and watercolor painting. She resides in Arizona with her husband and two children. “Georgana’s Secret” is her debut novel after publishing four historical romance novellas.
