The Captain's Cook
A Novel
by Victoria Vanransom
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Pub Date 30 Sep 2025 | Archive Date 15 Jan 2026
Description
"It's never too late to begin again! The Captain's Cook is a stirring, romantic journey of adventure and reinvention - perfect for readers who want to indulge in all the sights, tastes, and thrills of yachting in the South Pacific." -Aesha Scott, Chief Steward on Bravo TV's Below Deck Mediterranean Season 9 and Below Deck Down Under Seasons 1 & 2
When an ad for a luxury yacht searching for a chef crosses Jessica Kline's eyes, she knows this is it: the chance for a fresh start. Broke, divorced, uninspired in her career, and unlucky in love in her late fifties, she finds herself at Marina del Rey's California Yacht Club, staring down the Slow Dance as it waits to embark on a voyage to Tahiti and beyond. It is time for her interview to be the captain's cook.
Jess's culinary skills aren't in question. The real test is whether she's willing to take the leap of rediscovery into unchartered waters-with no guarantee this time she'll make it out unharmed. But as soon as Jess meets Captain Cliff Reed, she begins to get the sense she's not the only one who's been tossed around by life's waves . . .
Once upon the high seas, Jess must balance her ship duties with navigating the unpredictable winds of the skies and her crewmates alike-her enigmatic captain not excluded. But as she becomes filled with the breath of adventure and the fire of renewal, she soon realizes that it will be up to her to find the courage to face what lies ahead with an open heart and a sense of wonder.
A Note From the Publisher
PERFECT BLEND OF BEACH-READ AND THOUGHT-PROVOKING: Novel engagingly combines humorous crewmate antics, nail-biting dangers at sea, and evocative themes of rediscovering life and love in late middle age.
Advance Praise
“It’s never too late to begin again! The Captain’s Cook is a stirring, romantic journey of adventure and reinvention — perfect for readers who want to indulge in all the sights, tastes, and thrills of yachting in the South Pacific.” —Aesha Scott, Chief Steward on Bravo TV’s Below Deck Mediterranean Season 9 and Below Deck Down Under Seasons 1 & 2
“Vanransom’s novel unfolds like a sailor’s log, charting a course from port to port with an ever-changing crew … vividly described … this detailed maritime journey may appeal to fans of nautical adventures and travelogues.” —Library Journal
“The Captain’s Cook is a delightful voyage of self-discovery and second chances! Vanransom’s intimate knowledge of sailing and culinary arts brings the lush South Pacific setting to vibrant life, making you feel the salt spray and taste the exotic flavors. Climb aboard the Slow Dance for an adventure that will leave you dreaming of distant shores and new beginnings.” —RaeAnne Thayne, New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author
“The Captain’s Cook will sweep you away in a whirlwind of romance and fierce womanhood, unfolding through an episodic jaunt across the Southern Hemisphere. Ideal for a breezy, feelgood read.” —Rhonda Swan, International Bestselling Author of the Women Gone Wild Series; CEO of Unstoppable Branding Agency
Marketing Plan
- National print, broadcast, and online media campaign
- Appearance at ALA Annual Conference 2025
- Pre-publication trade advertising
- Outreach to women's interest, romance, and travel/lifestyle media
- Select fall book festival and food & wine festival appearances
- Pitch for placement at Ladies Luncheons and in Book Clubs
- Regional pitch for California/Los Angeles/Palm Springs coverage
- Book launch in Los Angeles, CA
Available Editions
| EDITION | Hardcover |
| ISBN | 9781612547336 |
| PRICE | US$27.99 (USD) |
| PAGES | 368 |
