I want to preface this review by stating that I am HUGE fan of historical nonfiction. However, this was my first venture into historical nonfiction surrounding nautical crimes from the 1800s. This is also my first time reading anything by this author. Therefore, going into reading this book, I wasn't exactly certain what to expect. After finishing, I decided to give this title 4 stars, rounding up from what I believe to be a solid 3.75/5 rating. Some thoughts on strengths and weakness of the title are listed below:

STRENGTHS: The author clearly conducted extensive research to complete this book, as evidenced by the fact that he draws on many testimonials from individuals who experienced the events first-hand, or participates in the trails that occur following the events. He expertly weaves the testimonies of those individuals and his own opinions to create a story that presents a factual view of the attempted mutiny that occurred aboard the Somer. The book is presented in a unbiased way, allowing the reader to draw their own conclusions from the book as to the authenticity of the views of MacKenzie and others.

WEAKNESS: Personally, I felt that this book lacks a climatic moment that one typically expects in stories. Additionally, the author relies at some points in the story very heavily on source materials, which makes the materials somewhat dull in places. Lastly, I found that additional contextual information may have been helpful for the readers, especially those not typically drawn to nautical nonfiction.

Overall, the book was interesting to read, and I enjoyed learning more about a subject I am unfamiliar with.

An intriguing story about an averted mutiny onboard a US Navy sailing vessel. The author does a good job of presenting both sides of the story. The information is well presented and allows the reader to make an informed decision regarding the guilt or innocence of the culprits. A good read on the event and an intriguing look at the life of a sailor in the 1800's.

Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

A fascinating if a little overly digressive history. The numerous quotes from varied sources lend an interesting air to the story. I also enjoyed the explanation of terms that are no longer used. This was a welcome glimpse into an episode I had not heard of before. On the whole, the book was well worthwhile and a welcome addition to the American history canon.

Nautical history is an area that always seems ripe for further study. This book looks at a gripping mutiny and subsequent trial, and it really does seem like it could be a setting for a nautical fiction book, however the stark and grisly details really did happen.