Cover Image: Pirate Hunters

Pirate Hunters

Pub Date:   |   Archive Date:

Member Reviews

Pirate Hunters by Robert Kurson

354 Pages
Publisher: Random House Publishing Group – Random House, Random House
Release Date: June 16, 2015

Nonfiction (Adult), History, Historical Nonfiction, Pirates, Treasure, Diving

This book is the account of John Chatterton and John Mattera’s search for Captain Bannister’s ship, the Golden Fleece. The author does an amazing job of describing the processes and skills used when treasure hunting. I love the term “mowing the lawn” when searching the seabed. I first heard of John Chatterton on the History Channel’s show, the Curse of Oak Island. He is a well-known scuba diver.

The book has a steady pace, and it is written in a descriptive style to make the reader feel a part of the hunt. If you like pirate stories and/or treasure hunting, you will enjoy reading this book.

Was this review helpful?

This was an interesting look at John Chatterton and John Mattera's lengthy search for the lost pirate ship The Golden Fleece. I liked how Mr. Kurson pieced this tale together - it's not only the actual process in attempting to find the ship and the importance of such a find, but the personal stories of the men involved (including an unexpected mafia connection!), the history of piracy, and the history of pirate Joseph Bannister and his crew. I found this story fascinating and appreciated the detail and history that backed up the hunt for the shipwreck.

Was this review helpful?

In his book, Pirate Hunters: Treasure, Obsession, and the Hunt for a Legendary Pirate Ship, author Robert Kurson chronicles the quest of John Chatterton and John Matteras to find the historic ship of the most famous brigand of his day, Joseph Bannister. If successful, they will make millions and history as well. However, The Golden Fleece remains elusive as the two friends fight time, rivals, and their benefactor. Is the vessel to remain undiscovered forever? Or will these two deep-sea divers become legends of their own?

Pirate Hunters is a well-written narrative packed of incredible history and real-life adventure. Kurson recounts the story as if he is living out the adventure with the two treasure hunters, taking the reader on a roller-coaster ride of intrigue and emotion. The book is part history, part biography, part puzzle-solving, and part present-day adventure, as Chatterton and Materras search for the find of a lifetime.

Pirate Hunters is a riveting account and an incredible read, but some readers may find the language objectionable. However, If you like true-life adventure with historical overtones, Pirate Hunters is right up your alley.

Was this review helpful?

This is a pretty faced pace adventure/thriller. It is interesting to hunt for pirates, as I always think of it as a distant thing that probably has no relevance in modern times.

Was this review helpful?

I received this as a review copy from Netgalley. And thoroughly enjoyed it.

It's well-written, thoroughly researched, and current, ongoing. What's not to love? A modern-day treasure hunt, with gun fights, pirates, and gold. There's something in there for everyone, with something of the documentary, a real-life thriller, and historical piece thrown into one book. Highly recommended.

Was this review helpful?