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4.2 out of 5 stars
4.2 out of 5
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Jessica W
5.0 out of 5 stars Thrilling read
Reviewed in the United States on September 8, 2018
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I am fortunate enough to know the author of this book and was able to read a draft during the editing stages. Although it took me a few chapters to get into the book, Julia skillfully uses flashback to unfold Stephen Boswell’s backstory and the reason for his present paranoia. Her characters are multi-dimensional, with even the most ruthless pirates being able to show affection, insecurity, and regret. The heroine, 10-year-old Alice, shows remarkable grit and strength for a character of her age. (And yes, I know she is fictional.)

The greatest thing about this book, in my humble opinion, is it’s historical accuracy. Julia did tons of research on pirates, weapons, ships, sailing, jargon, and the British navy to ensure that her book illustrates pirates the way they actually were, not as Hollywood likes to portray them. However, with historical accuracy comes the unpleasant truth of violence and murder. This book it not for those who squirm at blood and torture. I, myself am not fond of violence, and found some parts of the book difficult to get through. Be aware that Captain Boswell IS a merciless pirate.

I highly recommend this book for anyone who likes characters with deep, complex psyches, fast-paced stories and plots, and/or historical fiction novels (especially in the realm of pirates). Definitely a book to add to your personal library.

P.S., there’s a crazy plot twist towards the end that will blow your mind.
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Eva Gannon
3.0 out of 5 stars Interesting, But Basic Premise Is Flawed
Reviewed in the United States on September 14, 2018
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I enjoyed reading this book more than I thought I would, it kept my attention. The nautical details were the best part, life on the ship, the pursuit by the British Navy, and how the pirates evaded, were engaging.

However, I just couldn't buy the premise of the book, that the Captain killed out of fear. The reason for his extreme fear seemed a bit lacking, not enough to justify his extensive, cold blooded murdering. Similarly, his final speech to Jane lacked justification, amounting to "I murdered your husband and grandfather, but try not to think too badly of me."

Still, if you're looking for light reading among the many free offerings for Kindle, and you like historical fiction, give it a try.
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Richard Skinner
5.0 out of 5 stars Great characters, greater story!
Reviewed in the United States on September 7, 2018
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Julia Maiola has written something that is very much a well polished and realistic piece of historical fiction. Her Antagonist is deep and layered in a role that is traditionally archetypal and two dimensional. The realism and grim realities of the life of seafarers in the eighteenth century are very well portrayed, even to the point of walking the line of what we consider savage with respect to our modern sensibilities. Punches are not pulled with this book. Highly recommended.
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piano woman
5.0 out of 5 stars So glad that I read this book!
Reviewed in the United States on September 14, 2018
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Really enjoyed this book. Complex characters create a well-written, action filled story where innocence meets evil. You’ll find yourself torn between the two...
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K_21
5.0 out of 5 stars Truly Captivating! You won't want to put it down
Reviewed in the United States on October 17, 2018
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A truly engaging story. I could not put it down after I started! Suspenseful, I needed to know what happens next. It’s a fast paced read that will keep you on your toes from start to finish. Julia’s descriptive writing style allows you to feel connected to each character, you’ll feel like you personally know each one and the respective emotions they are facing. Even if it’s not your usual genre you will highly enjoy it. This book is a win-win, a gripping tale with a lesson in history. Patiently waiting for Julia’s next book!
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AZ614
5.0 out of 5 stars Great story!
Reviewed in the United States on June 10, 2019
Verified Purchase
I was surprised at how much I liked this book from a new author. She added rich details and carried the story at a pace where I didn't want to put the book down. I will be watching for more from this new, talented writer.
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Kathleen Cook
4.0 out of 5 stars Kept Me Reading
Reviewed in the United States on September 12, 2018
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While I wanted to find out what happened to the pirates I had to take a few breaks for games. Did not expect the ending, but I’m not sure what I was expecting had several endings in my head. All were wrong.
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Rick Northrup
4.0 out of 5 stars Alice, captive or pirate ?
Reviewed in the United States on October 18, 2019
Verified Purchase
A adventure of the high seas, the royal navy, pirates, deadly storms and Alice. Alice was a captive, a crewmember and in some ways commander of the
Vengence Dragon ,a pirate ship
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Benjibutton
5.0 out of 5 stars Great story
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on September 11, 2018
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Good plot with well defined characters - not the usuual sort of story I read- very different but really great. Enjoy
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