Across the Star-Kissed Sea - Proper Romance Regency by Arlem Hawks Paperback

About the Book

"May Byam seeks solace as a lady's maid aboard a naval ship, encountering Chaplain Elias Doswell, who soon comes to harbor secret affections. Amid shipboard tensions and the looming threat of war with the French, their burgeoning romance faces peril. As they navigate the challenges of their pasts, their love story unfolds within the storms of the sea"--

Book Synopsis

When May becomes a lady's maid at sea, she's hoping for an innocent adventure but instead must navigate rough waters, deadly combat, and unexpected love.

Mediterranean Sea, 1811

May Byam grew up following her father to his work at the ropemaking factory and listening to her uncle's tales of life aboard a Royal Navy ship. After tragedy and scandal shatter her family, May is desperate to escape the shame that follows her. Despite her mother's pleadings against it, May signs on as a lady's maid to the young wife of a naval captain. If she's going to run, she may as well do it in honor of her late uncle and cousin and where there is food, shelter, and perhaps even adventure. But the frosty reception she receives from the ship's clergyman makes her feel far from welcome.

Heartbroken young Chaplain Elias Doswell returns to a harsh life at sea, but preaching to disinterested sailors isn't the escape he'd hoped for--until a captivating young woman boards the ship. However, a case of mistaken identity ensures that he starts off on the wrong foot with the newly hired lady's maid, who clearly wants nothing to do with him. But the close quarters of the ship forces the pair together, and May begins to see a side of the handsome clergyman she didn't expect. As they struggle to navigate their deepening feelings, the danger of war with the French looms on the horizon, threatening their lives--and their love.

Review Quotes

"The author's research on battles, ships, and details of daily life are skillfully interwoven into the story. It's refreshing to have a Regency romance that doesn't involve balls and the hothouse life of a debutante."

-- "Historical Novel Society" (5/5/2025 12:00:00 AM)

About the Author

Arlem Hawks began making up stories before she could write. Living all over the western United States and traveling around the world gave her a love of cultures and people and the stories they have to tell. With her travels came an interest in history, especially the history of her British heritage. She lives in Utah with her husband and four children.