You may have all already heard about this outstanding series of books by W.A. Hoffman, that I was introduced to by Janet. The three books currently available are: Brethren, Matelots, and Treasure. The fourth and final book in the series, Wolves, is to be published this year (and, after virtually inhaling the first three books, I fervently hope it comes available very soon!).

This series is set primarily in the West Indies, during the Buccaneer period circa 1660, just before that period of history ends. The primary characters, Will and Gaston, are the first born of two noble families who, for their own tragic reasons, have no contact with their families, or don't at least when the series begins. During the buccaneer period, given the lack of women in the West Indies, men took 'matelots' who were partners in every sense ... business, sword brothers and effectively marriage. When Will saw Gaston in the streets of Port Royal, Jamaica, it was love at first sight but Gaston was so damaged by his past that, at first, he is not only known to be mad, but he also incapable of passion with either men or women.

The series is a romantic love story set against the tapestry of the era, rich in historical detail and adventure, fast paced, but also filled with angst and tons of h/c. Will and Gaston are irresistable and their cohorts are also wonderful characters, from their shipmates, Striker, Pete, the Bard and others, to their lawyer, Theodore, and respective others who fill their lives ... including wives they must have because of the pressures imposed by their birthrights. Villains abound, there's treachery at nearly every turn, and poignant moments ... well, there's everything you could ever want in a rich and wonderful series.

In case it's not already evident from this post, I highly recommend that you immediately order your copies from Amazon, and sit back to enjoy the ride of a lifetime!