I wasn't sure what to expect from Siren. Cheryl Sawyer is a new-to-me author, and Siren is a really thick book--over 500 pages--so I was a little hesitant to start it.

But oh, my goodness, am I glad I did. One of the best things about this board is finding wonderful new authors, new books, even new genres that I probably wouldn't have found otherwise. Siren is a perfect example.

It's a lush, romantic story about star-crossed lovers Leonore Roncival and Jean Laffite--yes, that's right--the famous pirate Jean Laffite.

Leonore is the daughter of a pirate, mistress of her own island. When Jean Laffite tries to raid her island, she proves more than a match for him, despite his superior numbers and weapons.

Throughout the book, they move from enemies to respected rivals to lovers and reluctant partners, all against a backdrop rich in historical detail.

Siren has earned its place on my keeper shelf--I'll be reading this one again. And I'll be watching for more books by Cheryl Sawyer. ( )