It's the late 1500s, and England and Spain are locked in a struggle for dominance of the seas. Sir Nicholas Beauvallet is captaining an English ship when a Spanish galleon opens fire on him-he returns the attack and leads his men to a spectacular victory. But while plundering the captured ship, Sir Nicholas discovers the beautiful and spirited Dominica traveling with her dying father. He treats them with unexpected chivalry and, at great personal risk, escorts them safely back to Spain-but not before wooing Dominica and vowing to return for her within the year. Dominica, in turn, finds herself drawn to his honor, courage, and reckless daring.

Georgette Heyer, best known today as the pioneer of the Regency romance genre, ranges further back in time with Beauvallet, delivering a swashbuckling Elizabethan adventure full of wit, danger, and irresistible charm. Heyer's meticulous historical research and sparkling dialogue make this tale of piracy and courtship as vivid today as when it was first published.

Readers who love swashbuckling adventure, star-crossed romance on the high seas, and heroes with equal parts honor and audacity will be swept away by this dashing historical tale.

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