Silver Storm

The Raveneau Novels, Book 1

By: Cynthia Wright

Narrated by: Emily Beresford

Length: 11 hrs and 5 mins

Publisher's Summary

Dashing and dangerous Andre Raveneau is the Revolutionary War's most reckless privateer captain when Devon Lindsay stows away aboard his ship after her Connecticut town has been burned by the British. Raveneau sardonically agrees to deliver her to her childhood sweetheart in Virginia but doesn't count on his own potent attraction to the enchanting, courageous Devon.

Through high adventure, swashbuckling sea battles, and the colorful history of America's revolution, the couple battles the fiery passion that binds them together.

Silver Storm is on keeper shelves worldwide. The story of Andre and Devon and their twisting path to true love is one you will want to revisit over and over!

©1979, 2011 Cynthia Challed (P)2014 Cynthia Challed

My all-time favorite novel, now as an Audiobook!

This is my ALL-TIME favorite historical romance. I've read hundreds upon hundreds of them and it simply doesn't get any better than Silver Storm. What a beautiful, enduring romance! Each time I read it I find something new to love. How could it get even better? By being made into an Audiobook, of course!

Emily Beresford's narration of this novel made it feel all new again to me, even though I've read it myself a dozen times. She reads with emotion and gives enough distinction to each character's voice that you can really visualize the different speakers. If I thought the hero of this book was dreamy before, hearing him brought to life by Ms. Beresford raises him to epic proportions. :)

Of course, a good narrator is wasted if a book isn't well written in the first place. This one most certainly is more than up to the challenge. The first thing I noticed when I was first exposed to Cynthia Wright's novels is the tremendous amount of historical detail and real people she weaves throughout. Silver Storm is set in the coastal port town of New London, Connecticut beginning in 1775, and travels through the American Revolution. The heroine's school master is the famous patriot Nathan Hale. Her town is attacked by Redcoats under the direction of traitor Benedict Arnold. Even George Washington makes a cameo. This is one romance novel that will leave you a little smarter in American History by the time you've finished it. If only it were taught this way in school. :)

Besides the bonus of a gentle history lesson, this story truly tells of an epic romance for the ages. No matter how many times I re-read this book, or in this case, LISTEN to it, it never fails to take my breath away.

Notorious and devilishly handsome French sea captain-turned-privateer Andre Raveneau first crosses the lovely Devon Lindsey's path when she is 13 years old. She becomes fascinated by the daring captain of the Black Eagle, who is known for always seeming to be able to escape seemingly impossible situations. Their paths meet again a few years later and the dangerous and magnetic Raveneau shocks her by giving her a teasing kiss that turns her world upside down.

The daughter of a sailor herself, Devon is fascinated by those who call the sea their home. Her original plan of marrying her childhood friend, Morgan, begins to fall apart when she realizes that his kisses have the opposite effect of those of the handsome Raveneau. There has to be more to love than feeling comfortable. She is certain, however, that a man like the Captain would never be interested in a plain colonial miss like her.

Then one horrible day the British attack the town of New London, burning buildings and leaving a path of destruction. Devon barely escapes with her life and fears she has lost everyone dear to her. She runs into a sailor from the Black Eagle, who secretly smuggles her on board disguised as a cabin boy. Of course, she is discovered by the all-seeing Captain Raveneau, although not until after she attends to his bath....

I love this book and know you will too! Captain Raveneau will always be, for me, the gold-standard of fictional heroes. He is positively, deliciously perfect in every way. With his devastatingly handsome good looks, adventurous nature, charmed success, and strength, he is truly a man to make you swoon. And now, with this Audiobook, he has finally found his voice.

Audible Version of "Silver Storm" is terrific!

Where does Silver Storm rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

I've finally figured out how to download the Audible feature on my phone (and Kindle, too) and have discovered audio books again! I no longer have long car commutes, but now I have found a way to listen to engrossing historical fiction like Cynthia Wright's "Silver Storm" and was immediately caught up in this wonderful tale of America's Revolutionary War era while walking, cooking, and even doing laundry! The narrator, Emily Beresford, is absolutely superb (and this is a field I know, having been a radio commentator for ABC in LA for 18 years)! Her melodious speaking voice sweeps the listener into that tumultuous period of America's history in a kind of "You Are There" fashion that totally makes the modern world fade away. Beresford has an amazing knack of portraying male voices convincingly--even ones with a slight French accent. What a treat for the ears...and thanks both to Ms. Wright and Ms. Beresford for re-introducing me to the pleasure of listening to the written word. Loved it!

What was one of the most memorable moments of Silver Storm?

When the heroine meets Andre Raveneau which she is still a young girlll

What does Emily Beresford bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

As mentioned above, Beresford has an amazing knack of audibly portraying the characters whether men or women; young or old.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Well...Cynthia Wright's novels always wring emotion from me...and Silver Storm is no exception...but hearing the book read really makes it come to life!

Any additional comments?

I think it's wonderful that talents like Emily Beresford can be heard by "readers" all over the world and I'm so appreciative that Ms. Wright chose her to personify the characters in Silver Storm. What a delight and I can't wait until some of Wright's other novels can be listened to by people-on-the-go as I am. Thanks!

IT LEAVES YOU WITH THAT 'FEEL GOOD' FACTOR

I saw this book had so many 5 star ratings and glowing reviews (and I just can't resist a handsome moody Privateer either) that I downloaded this straight away and I'm so glad I did.... thank you fellow reviewers.

Devon has been captivated by the handsome charismatic French Privateer Captain Andre Raveneau since she was 13 and had dreams of sailing the high seas with her long time friend. Unfortunately, 5 years later, War has thrown her life in a different direction... straight into the moody, bad tempered and unwilling clutches of Andre. However, her independence, thoughtfulness and feisty attitude (as well as her charms) soon has the sizzling chemistry boiling over but insecurities, stubbornness, misunderstandings and secrets get in the way of their HEA.

It's a sweeping fantasy romance that has both drama and humor, and carries you away on the tempestuous high seas to witness angst, treachery, death, spies, lies, secrets, bitter ex's wanting revenge, a scorned lover with a devious plan, heartache, character growth and a romance that grew into a beautiful touching love story. The sex was only very mildly hinted at.

Worth a credit? This was a very well written and described listen and the Narrator did a great job so that I could mentally picture each Chapter and I liked it so much that I've just put all the rest of the series in my basket... so YES a very seaworthy.... oh I mean creditworthy historical romance that'll leave you with a smile on your face.

1 of my favorite books since I found it in 1979

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Absolutely. The story captivates you from the start. The characters are unique, complex and unforgettable and you learn a little American history along the way!

What other book might you compare Silver Storm to and why?

Cynthia Wright is a master storyteller! Several of her other novels intertwine characters that began in Silver Storm, so when you fall in love with it, the feeling doesn't have to end.

What about Emily Beresford’s performance did you like?

It was my first audio book experience. Emily's interpretation of the characters were so close to how I felt about them in my own mind when I read the book, it was amazing.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

There are many moving moments. I love how the heroine Devon is brave, gutsy and follows her heart, no matter what the consequences. You should experience the exciting ride yourself.

Any additional comments?

Cynthia Wright has been crafting compelling and interesting stories and characters for over 25 years and her books are just as revelant today. If you've not discovered this truly talented writer before, now is your chance.

Classic Romance!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I read this book when it was first published in 1979. It was definitely what we romance fans call a "keeper". I was very excited to see that it was on audible.com. Well worth a credit. I read it over the weekend. I enjoyed it just as much now as I did when I first read it. I would definitely recommend it to a friend. It is a classic example of the early historical romance novel and why the whole romance genre got started.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Devon Lindsey was my favorite character. She is in virtually every scene in the book. The book follows her journey from a 12 year old to a grown woman who falls in love during the time of the Revolutionary War.

Which scene was your favorite?

Probably my favorite scene would be when the hero Andre Raveneau arranges for Devon to "marry" her childhood sweetheart.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, yes, yes. Emily Beresford did a wonderful job with all the characters and there are a lot of them.

Any additional comments?

I can't wait to listen to the rest of Cynthia Wright's novels. I am very hopeful that audible will release all of her titles. More than just enjoying listening to the book it made me remember why I fell in love with the romance genre. The reason I never outgrew that love is that I am always looking for a book I will enjoy as much as this one.

A Beautiful Historical Romance!

If you could sum up Silver Storm in three words, what would they be?

beautiful historical romance

What was one of the most memorable moments of Silver Storm?

I liked the time when Devon realized that Andre was the Blue Jay from the beginning & he loved her the whole time! Wanted to get to know her better!

Have you listened to any of Emily Beresford’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Yes, & as always this lady does the best narrations. I absolutely love the clarity of her voice, the ability she has for so many wonderful voices & her accents are fabulous! Emily Beresford has the ability to breathe life into a story, making it feel like I am watching a movie. The narrator makes this story feel real & believable.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

A historic romance in epic proportions!

Any additional comments?

Wow, I love this narrator! The story is excellent. I liked it a lot more than I thought it would. Many twists & turns & 1 adventure after another. The author, Cynthia Wright did a fantastic job writing this story too! The ending made me feel all warm & fuzzy. :)

Enthralled with this book

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Silver Storm is that love story, historical fiction with lots of action and romance and pirates or privateers as they call them selves, it is most certainly a 5 star book for me. I had read Silver Storm a few years ago, I loved it, I have read all the Raveneau and Beauvisage books and loved everyone of them, listening to Silver Storm was like listening to a new book, I put my Kindle in a smock pocket and my ear buds in and listened while I cleaned, ironed etc. it was so enthralling I didn't want to stop listening to it until it ended, I would recommend the audio version whether you have read the book or not, it is wonderful, I can't wait to get Tempest and listen to it.

What did you like best about this story?

I enjoyed it all, I don't think I can pick just one thing.

Which character – as performed by Emily Beresford – was your favorite?

Devon

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

A lot of them, the scene in their store when the british tried to rape her and kill her Mom, the night of love making on the ship after Raveneau found her on board, so many moved me, if I tell them all it will give the plot away.

Any additional comments?

Just a big Thank You to everyone involved in doing this audible book, CynthIa Wright, Emily Beresford, everyone.

A beauitful Historical Romance!

If you could sum up Silver Storm in three words, what would they be?

beautiful historical romance

What was one of the most memorable moments of Silver Storm?

When Devon found out who the Blue Jay was and her wedding night.

Any additional comments?

I loved this book it kept me laughing and at times broke my heart. I could really relate to Devon through all that she had gone through she was a wonderful outstanding loveable character. The dashing Andre with his wonderful alpha self is just thrilling. It takes place in the 18th century during the Revolutionary War off the coast in the USA. One of those places being Virginia since I live here I am well aware of the places they visited or lived why in this state. This made it very easy for me to relate to where and when things happen.

Devon growing up in New London, Connecticut all she wanted was adventure on the high seas. Her plans when she got older was to marry her first love and sail the seas. At 12 she first saw the French privateer, Captain Andre Raveneau. At 17 he was her first kiss, a year later the British attack New London burning the town and killing everyone they could. She is lost and left alone only one man helped her bring her aboard Raveneau's ship, the Black Eagle. This is where things take a turn Devon has many issues and feelings to deal with as Raveneau takes more than a kiss.

Raveneau is a wild privateer he takes what he wants when he wants. Women fall at his feet and beg to be taken. When a young boy is brought on his ship things get really interesting, when the boy is found out not to be a boy that is when all hell breaks loose. Raveneau tries his best to be a gentleman why he teaches some sense into Devon. I loved Andre character he has dealt with a lot in his lifetime. Trusting any women is hard for him giving his love is impossible. He is strong but gentle there is no doubt he is a man’s man. He is fair but has no trouble dishing out punishments.

The author gives a wonderful compelling complex tale of young love, finding ones way, hurt, losing love with some shocking turns. Devon seek for adventure does seem to keep her in trouble as she helps win the war why falling for famous French privateer as they are on the hunt for her fiancé who she is unsure of. Should she marry him even though she doesn’t have the type of feelings she should for the man she loves. Why does Raveneau make her feel the way he does?
Emily Beresford does a wonderful job of narration as she brings life to each character. Some of her voices were close to others but you could still tell who was talking. Her voice is smooth, her tones were lovely. She made this a pleasure to listen to. I very much look forward to listening to more books from her.

The author and narrator give you a wonderful story that you will lose yourself in. It was a book that was hard to put down. The author knows how to give a wonderful humorous read that keeps your attention why you laugh out loud and the trouble Devon gets into. It was a well told story with wonderful narration that kept me coming back for more. I am really looking forward to reading or listening to the rest of this series.

Wonderfully Executed Historical Romance

Would you consider the audio edition of Silver Storm to be better than the print version?

If a narrator is good, it only enhances the story. I felt this the case.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Silver Storm?

Saving Andre's life during the storm.

What about Emily Beresford’s performance did you like?

Her total involvement emotionally with distinct voices for each character.

Any additional comments?

About the Story: Devon Lindsay has always, always had a crush on Andre Raveneau. So when she by chance ran into Devon on the street, she was entranced – a besotted young girl. Andre, thinking to rid her of this affliction, decided to kiss her. That’s what surely would scare her off. But when his lips touched hers a curious feeling overtook him. He reacted with somewhat of a jolt. How come this chit of a girl could pull that kind of reaction from him? She was yet but a child and he had his ship to return to and enemy ships to seize.

Several years later, Devon’s town was raided by the Redcoats. Two Redcoats came into her mother’s shop, thinking to plunder more than just supplies. Her mother was dragged up the stairs to her fate. Devon was saved the same by a cry that the town was burning. The Redcoat grabbed her, shouting to his buddy up the stairs and left the shop. The next thing Devon knew, her mother’s shop was burning. In anguish she looked back to see fire licking through the windows and knew her mother was dead. Devon had a very agile mind, abided her time and was able to escape her captor. She climbed up a tree and hid there for hours. During those hours, she wept, saddened by her mother's cruel end and the many deaths in New London.

Thinking the Redcoats had finally left, hours later, Devon climbs out of the tree. Where was she to go? She was spotted by a man, thankfully not the enemy. Exhausted, Devon wanted to believe he was good. He spoke kindly and said he would take her to safety. Some hours later, after riding on horseback, they arrived at a ship in a small harbor. Her hero snuck her on board, disguised as a young man. She knew that ship all too well. It was the Black Eagle, captained by none other than Captain Andre Raveneau. Her new hero, Caleb, was the ‘scrupulous’ sailor who saved her from certain peril. And for his good deed to her, he received a lashing from the captain. What was she thinking? How could she ever had kind thoughts for Andre Raveneau? How could he punish the man who had saved her life? As far as Devon was concerned, all previous thoughts of Andre being a hero were washed away. He was just a brute as we hear from her own lips on many occasions.

As in most situations, not all is at it seems, neither from Devon’s point of view nor from Andre’s. A most intriguing twisting story, this, full of lies, half-truths and blazing temper!
My Thoughts: I’m always ready for a story with the American Revolution, the pains of a new nation, as a backdrop. I wasn’t disappointed in the telling of this one. From its first chapter it held action and didn’t let up. The narrator, with her superb personation of hot-tempered Devon, her mother, sceptical Captain Andre Raveneau and the myriad of emotions that explode between Devon and Andre, enhance many-fold this suspenseful novel. I could easily listen again and enjoy it as much.

Captain Andre hadn’t remembered their ‘first kiss’, but this spirited chit, dressed as a boy, was worth getting to know. But when Devon wouldn’t listen to the captain even when giving orders, she nearly finds herself off the ship. She pleads beseechingly to the captain to take her to her fiancé, Morgan, who is fighting in the war and should be in Chesapeake Bay.
The captain agrees to do so, however reluctantly, not able to say no to a damsel in distress, if she is, which the captain questions. Coming aboard with Caleb, a scoundrel, if there ever was one, does not help her case. She certainly shows she likes the man. What? A man in every port for Devon? She certainly bears watching.

Much occurs before they are able to locate Morgan, and it appears that Morgan has become a thorn in the captain’s side—a big thorn! How can Andre want a woman who is affianced to another? It is not the honorable thing to pursue another man’s woman, so he says. More adventure awaits them both, tempers flare, passion burns, and soon no one’s emotions are clearly readable.

The story line was chock full of suspense, sarcasm, anger, passion, fear, along with honor. The reader is unable to guess what will happen next. I enjoyed the fiery personality of Devon as a young woman and her fight-back attitude when her world was destroyed around her. Narrator Emily Beresford uses a high-lilt of a young girl for Devon, a bit flighty in character, just a young girl with a head full of dreams. Devon’s mother sounded old, tired, hurt and disgusted with the way life treated her. It was hard to believe that it was the same person narrating both characters, let alone the male voice for Andre. Andre’s diction of English had a slight French accent and when he spoke in actual French, she had the pronunciation exactly right .

About the Author Cynthia Wright (in her own words): Many of you read my books during my 20 year, 13-novel career with a New York publisher. My historical romances are, as one reader said, “warm, adventurous, loving, and sensual.” They are filled with compelling characters who cross over into other novels, so the families become beloved friends. And, I enjoy incorporating real historical people, places, and events into my novels! After two decades, I took a break from writing to pursue other endeavors, but the “indie” e-book revolution lured me back and I am incredibly excited to have all my books available, re-freshened & re-edited, with stunning new covers. I'm writing again and loving it more than ever.

Last year, I released a brand-new Raveneau novel, TEMPEST, and I'm very grateful for the warm reception from readers. In 2014, I am publishing SMUGGLER'S MOON, the first book in a new Raveneau series called "The Raveneaus in Cornwall!" It's filled with passion and adventure and I hope you will love it.
* * * * * * * * * *
If you would like to read the two series, the Raveneau novels and the Beauvisage novels in chronological order, they are listed here.
1781 - SILVER STORM
1783 - CAROLINE
1789 - TOUCH THE SUN
1793 - SPRING FIRES* (A Beauvisage/Raveneau Novel)
1814 - SURRENDER THE STARS
1814 - NATALYA
1818 - SILVER SEA (A Raveneau/Beauvisage Novel)
1903 - TEMPEST

Narrator Emily Beresford: Ms. Beresford earned her BA in Liberal Studies from Green Mountain College in Vermont, with concentrations in Creative Writing, Music, and English. In 2013 she was nominated for an Audie Award and received an Earphones Award from AudioFile magazine. She lives in Michigan with her wonderful husband, and two amazing children.

Her comments about this series: I have to say I love this series! Cynthia's writing is so magical, I never knew I enjoyed Historical Romance this much until her books. Now I am hooked!

One of her fans recently said that her settings for her books become characters in themselves with all the imagery and care she has taken to represent them. That really rang true for me as I always find myself so immersed in her writing and feel like I am actually living it.

Her dialogue is also so true to the timeline of the setting that it adds an extra element of really being present in the story. It has been such an honor narrating her Raveneau Series, and I can't wait to begin on the upcoming (on audio) Beauvisage Series!

A favorite book comes to life....

I fell in love with Silver Storm shortly after the book was published in 1979, and Cynthia Wright became one of my favorite authors. This is a classic historical romance, featuring well-developed characters who come alive in this audiobook read aloud by Emily Beresford.

It has been awhile since I last listened to a book, as opposed to reading it myself...but this has reminded me how much I enjoy it!!!! Emily has a WONDERFUL way with voices, accents, even male voices so that the listener is able to know who is speaking without having to be told ...just be aware that you shouldn't listen to this out loud if you have children around :-) Can't wait to listen to more of the series...HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!

As an aside, I should mention that I live near New London, CT where much of the action takes place; it is obvious that Cynthia Wright really put in a lot of research because she has included a lot of the history of this area in Silver Storm.

Enjoyed it

Enjoyed the story but there wasn't much romance in it. All they did was fight. I'm a big fan of Cynthia Wright's books but this was just OK. The narrator was ok, but her voice for Andre was awful. His voice didn't fit his description at all as he sounded like an 18yo boy. And the accent wasn't French at all. As Andre was the hero the narrator ruined it a bit. But still on to the next one, Caroline, which is a Beauvisage story of Alexander and Caroline.

Loved it

Loved this book, couldn't put it down. Great story & brilliant narration. Can't wait to listen to the next one.

Brilliant

What did you like most about Silver Storm?

Everything about the story was wonderful. It is one of those books that keep you hooked from beginning to end filled with anticipation about what's going to happen next.

What did you like best about this story?

I liked the excitement of the story. There was never a dull moment. The relationship between the Captain and Devon was passionate, if they weren't fighting with each other, they were loving each other!

What about Emily Beresford’s performance did you like?

This is the first Audible book I have had and Emily amazed me with her interpretation of each character that she read. From Devon's sweet voice, to the Southern accent of Andre Raveneau's steward. Emily really made the characters come to life. Her normal reading voice is very pleasant too and she made my first experience of an audible book a great one.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Definitely yes. Unfortunately I didn't start listening to it until late at night so had to listen to it over two sittings.

Any additional comments?

I love and have read many of Cynthia's books, I always thought that reading them myself and putting my own imagination to work on how their voices sound was always going to be better than listening to another person read the book. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that I was wrong. I truly enjoyed listening to this book and will definitely listen to more of Cynthia's books even if I have already read them myself.