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She let go of everything... and found herself at sea.

Broke, divorced, and uninspired in her late fifties, chef Jessica Kline answers an ad for a luxury yacht in need of a cook — and sets sail from Marina del Rey to Tahiti and beyond.

The Captain’s Cook is a slow-burn romance of healing, trust, and second chances, served up with all the sights, tastes, and thrills of yachting in the South Pacific.

Available in hardcover and Kindle.

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"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

Praise for The Captain's Cook

best-seller
Independent Press Award
NYC Big Book Award Distinguished Favorite 2026
"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
"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 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, feel-good read."
Rhonda Swan
International Bestselling Author of the Women Gone Wild Series; CEO of Unstoppable Branding Agency