David Donachie in the Contraband Shore pits a corrupt smuggler against a gallant post captain in England in 1787. Right up to the last moment the reader will believe that the naval officer will prevail in his courtship of the corrupt smuggler's sister. Think again. Read to the last sentence and prepare for a sequel.

I really liked reading this historical adventure novel. Captain Brazier is back from the Caribbean with some money in his pocket and is ready to court the widow Betsy Vaughn. He has arrived in Deal to propose marriage to her. However there are lots of smuggling crimes, back door deals and secrets in Deal. Brazier finds himself getting caught up in much of the trouble. This is a first book in the series and the book does have a cliff hanger ending. The author does a very good job with the setting and the characters. I look for word to reading the next book to see what happens next. Enjoy this fun exciting read.

Captain Brazier, prize money in hand, has arrived in Deal, eager to propose marriage to widow Betsy Vaughan. When the lady's brother objects and Captain Brazier is targetted by local smuggling gang, he finds himself caught up in more than he bargained for.

Edward Brazier is an enjoyable lead for the series. He's spent his time at sea and is prepared to find a wife to be by his side. His reaction to the trouble he encounters was believable and made me more sympathetic to the situation he finds himself in.

The research the author put into the book shines through. Every time I opened the book, I felt transported to the time.

For readers looking for the start to a historical adventure series, I would definitely recommend this.

I tried to get into this book, but after first chapter, it just was not something i wanted to continue reading. Would not say it was a bad book, just was not for me.