OK. I am a huge LA Meyer fan, but this wasn't as fun to read. I really wanted to give it 2 1/2 stars. Still a fun, fast read if you like Jacky. ( )

A great addition to the series. Can't wait to get to book 10!

I really appreciate how the different situations are presented. More mature readers will get what is really going on, but the author never comes right out and makes official statements about a character and their behavior. I feel like these can be given to somewhat younger readers who will enjoy the story but completely miss the more adult scenarios. ( )

More Jacky Faber shenanigans fill this installment which seems a bit like filler before she jumps into more wartime adventures. ( )

Description: The irrepressible Jacky Faber, condemned for life to the English penal colony in Australia for crimes against the Crown, has once again wriggled out of the grasp of British authorities. Back on her flagship, the Lorelei Lee, she eagerly heads back to England in the company of friends and her beloved Jaimy Fletcher. But when the voyage is waylaid by pirates, storms, and her own impetuous nature, Jacky is cast into a world of danger that extends from the South China Sea to the equally treacherous waters of London politics. With the help of her loyal friends, Jacky meets her enemies head on in this tale of love, courage, and redemption.

Thoughts: I found this foray into Jacky's adventures quite misnamed and fairly boring. I was sure that the focus of the story would be a much more satisfying adventure throughout Asia, rather than a weak lucky break in one small Asian city that is wrapped up quickly and uninspiring. What occurs once back in England felt much too self-serving and not very interesting.

And the end. Oh lord, the end. Melodramatic barely covers it.

Really, really hoping that Viva Jacquelina! isn't My Bonny Light Horseman 2.0!

Rating: 3.08

Liked: 3
Plot: 2.5
Characterization: 3
Writing: 3
Audio: 4

http://www.librarything.com/topic/160137#4337337 ( )

Jacky meets with Chinese pirates and the aristocracy of China. Once again, L. A. Meyer's references to history are wonderful. Novels about the piratical ways are always worth it. ( )