The Captian's Cook.png
The Captian's Cook.png

The Captain's Cook: A Novel

$27.99

"The wind is like a dance partner, always changing, always leading us in a different direction . . ."

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.

"The wind is like a dance partner, always changing, always leading us in a different direction . . ."

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.

SPECS

  • Imprint: Brown Books Publishing Group

  • BISAC: Fiction / Women

  • Format: Hardcover with printed dust jacket

  • Page Count: 368

  • Publication Date: September 30, 2025

  • ISBN-13: 9781612547336

  • Dimensions: 6" x 9"

  • US List Price: $27.99

  • Carton QTY: 18

AUTHOR BIO

Victoria Vanransom's extensive travels and rich experiences in the culinary world are reflected in The Captain's Cook. Asian culture profoundly shaped her culinary philosophy because she had the unique opportunity to learn directly from native women. Sharing time in the kitchen taught her about their cuisines, spices, and time-honored cooking techniques. These immersive experiences have given her a deep appreciation for the cultural significance of food and the stories it tells.

A graduate of culinary school, Victoria spent years honing her skills. In 1977, she joined The Good Earth Restaurant in Boulder, Colorado and spent 12 years developing recipes and opening new locations. Victoria owned her own restaurant in Encinitas, California, for 4 years, and in 1997, she was back to corporate life as Executive Chef for a Palm Springs Marriott property. When her heart longed to see the ocean again, she moved to Malibu where she catered to private clients.

In addition to her culinary expertise, Victoria is an accomplished sailor, having logged over 150,000 sea miles as chef aboard sailboats. Her journey at sea began in 2010, where her love for the ocean and culinary arts converged. Cooking at sea has allowed her to adapt to the challenges of limited resources while still creating flavorful, satisfying meals that reflect her diverse background. Ms. Vanransom is an avid reader of fiction, non-fiction and current events. She lives in California with her whiskered writing assistants Cleo, Juji, and Piper.

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

"The Captain's Cook by Victoria Vanransom is a sweeping novel that blends adventure, resilience, and personal reinvention...the writing captures the grandeur of sailing the Pacific . . . making for a compelling tale. I highly recommend it." —Readers' Favorite Book Reviews