Cruel fate that delayed me from this chapter all day .
Matt is still a volcano I see...only this time it's an explosion of self awareness and a lava flow of realizing the priority divide he and Wade have been experiencing these past several months. It was moving to experience his epiphany and while I'm sad at Cam's potential heart break over this development, I am hoping Mark Arbour will make sure Cam gets his HEA to compensate for the loss.
Beautiful work, mahalo.
Nice to see Bertie again and it's even nicer that he has redeemed himself mostly. The Wilcox family seems to have no sense of self preservation...oh well it's fun to watch a baddie fall. Thanks.
Similar to certain parents who sell their motorcycles when they have children, George needs to learn that as captain the overly risky fun must be passed over because his responsibilities are much greater.
Finally Granger breaks his stoic character a bit and cuts loose and explains things to the Elgin's. How absolutely crass of Lady Elgin to bring that scandal up, I almost wish Major Treadway would have demanded Lord Elgin fight to defend his honor. I suspect Elgin was pretty terrified at that prospect. Her accusation that her low birth is the reasoning is absurd. George would not be the beloved naval officer that he is if he were truly that arrogant. Completely gripping work, thanks.
A relationship with Calvert requires more patience than with someone of his station or rank. Francis is naïve in so many ways and has a very narrow view of romantic love. Granger with his more flexible sexual perspective will be a challenge for him. Fantastic work.
Mark Arbour makes this period in history really come alive even for those of us who may not immediately embrace this genre. It's a fabulous read and the perfect balance of erotic, romance, and exciting military action. Thank you Mr. Arbour again for sharing your version of history.
Whew hoo to Travers on his promotion. Huzzah to George for being a long term guy and not a short term profiteer. Kudos to Arbour for making this all so engrossing.
George is learning quickly, and I love his father's Frank explanation...a nicer way of saying "Life's not fair, suck it up and capitalize on that fact when it's unfairness is in your favor."