It was published in the 80's, maybe early 90's. It could possibly be a Heartfire book. All I can remember is its about a young woman. Seems like her and her (possibly twin) brother are on their own traveling on a ship somewhere. Her brother is possibly beaten and raped, or is submitting to someone's desires to keep them away from his sister.

Was a really good book, but I don't remember enough about it to find it. :)

Darn, this sounds familiar, but I can't place it. Do you remember any names and what era the book was set?

Now that I think about it. Is the sister dressed as a boy and then was found out at some point? I'll have to think back to see if I can remember the title or author.

Cannot remember if she dressed as boy or not. It was set during the regency era I think, 1800's?!