Captive Hearts is filled with everything a historical romance should have. A strong heroine, a handsome male hero and a plot that has more twists and turns than an amusement park ride, it is a gripping and satisfying read. Set just before 1800 in England, this is the story of a woman’s desire to satisfy her uncle without compromising on what she wants. Katharine has a traumatic past. It’s left her determined to take control of her life, even if that means marrying a man just to claim her inheritance. She makes a deal with Captain Matthew Hamilton, a man with some sad, difficult issues in his past, too. He balks initially when she suggests their marrying, but is eventually persuaded.

Teresa J. Reasor has talent, and it shows in the way she weaves the threads of this story together. I enjoyed seeing how she made the characters come alive. Katharine is so feisty and intent about everything she does, her character practically leaps off the page. I felt as if I knew her, personally, by the time I was halfway through this novel. Matthew is such a hunk, but that almost becomes secondary as we see what he’s really made of. His attention to this bargain bride is so sweet. The dialogue between these two characters is realistic, not only for their relationship, but for the time period.

Captive Hearts is an enchanting historical romance. I will look forward to reading more from this author. This is the first book I’ve read by Teresa J. Reasor, but it won’t be my last!

Reviewed by: Marlene