Georgana’s Secret

A young woman disguised as a cabin boy struggles to keep her identity secret from an earnest lieutenant in this captivating seafaring Regency from Hawks (Commander of His Heart). Georgana Woodall is 15 years old when her father helps her escape her abusive grandmother by disguising her as George and taking her aboard his ship, the HMS Deborah. Three years later, Lt. Dominic Peyton joins the crew and compassionately provides George with guidance and protection from the ship ruffians, who dislike her even in her disguise. Georgana is quite bewitched by the man, and, when Peyton learns her true identity, he returns her feelings but must hide them from the rest of the crew. Hawks crafts a spellbinding tale featuring rich characters and raw emotions set against the atmospheric backdrop of sea life in all its danger and beauty. Georgana is a tough protagonist holding her own in a world dominated by men, while Peyton’s charm and sensitivity marks him as a true gentleman. A hidden identity, flirtation, and treachery make for a rousing tale to captivate lovers of historical romances. (Jan.)