The Pirate and I by Katharine Ashe is filled with strong, independent and interesting characters. The London perfumer, Esme Astell is unique and irresistible. Her independent spirit and hopefulness can not be diminished even in the face of heartache and prejudice. When she is reunited with the boy she’ once thought herself in love with, she cannot allow him to suffer when she has the ability to save him. Charlie, thought dead for years, is alive and well and running from the police in an Edinburgh alley. Gone is the bookish boy and in his place a brawny pirate. Charlie has spent the last couple of years just trying to survive. He’s learned his lessons well, and will be at no man’s mercy ever again.

Katharine Ashe paints a portrait of 1823 Edinburg with a clarity of a time traveler. Guided by the talent and awe of Esme Astell we discover the nuances of the town through each of the senses. The aromas and textures of her world expands when she is thrown into her lost love’s path. 

Each must travel their own path to make their dreams come true. Will Esme give up her dreams to finally be with the man she loves? Will Charlie return to pirating or finally break free of all of his bonds.

From the little dog Douglas to the fearsome pirate Pate, Katharine Ashe gives a story filled with people so real, we forget we cannot reach out and touch them. 

Esme Astell and Charles Westley Brittle aka Scholar are a beautiful couple who open our hearts and minds to love.