Pirates & Privateers: Katie Daysh's Books

The time: August 1798. The place: Aboukir Bay, Egypt. This novel opens with a nail-biting, edge-of-your seat, you-are-there moment during the Battle of the Nile when the flagship of the French navy explodes. Neither you nor the captain of HMS Lion escape unscathed. His wounds are deep and abiding, physical and traumatic. Astute readers also perceive the first glimmer that Leeward will not be your typical British Royal Navy tale set during the Age of Nelson. And this debut novel will not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those who venture into this maelstrom of manipulation, deception, courage, and love, will be richly rewarded.

Accepting a new post in the Caribbean is not Captain Hiram Nightingale’s preference, but two years have passed since his injuries during the Battle of the Nile, and his father and father-in-law think it is for the best. Granted, Admiral Nightingale always thinks he knows what is best for his son. Sir William Haywood has promised to help Hiram walk the fine line between ship and shore, seamanship and politics, in this assignment. Except upon his arrival, he discovers plans have changed and he has new orders. He is to take command of HMS Scylla and pursue mutineers aboard a rogue navy ship as powerful as his own.

Old emotions of doubt and terror surface, but he soon finds that being captain is second nature to him. Still, there are problems he must deal with – a first lieutenant who questions his commands, friction between two of his lieutenants, a despondent crew – but he manages to do his duty and slowly gains the loyalty of his men . . . or at least most of them. Disaster strikes after they capture a Spanish prize, which results in a mockery of an ad hoc court-martial, and the revelation of two secrets, both of which should have been disclosed before he took command of Scylla. Now, he may lose his ship and innocents aboard the rogue warship may die as a result.

Daysh is adept at weaving picturesque and fresh phrases that perfectly capture the moment. One example is “Time congealed into thick molasses.” (18) From time to time, she entwines chapters of backstory with those that take place in 1800. Initially the reason for this is unclear, but each incident provides glimpses into past events that shaped Nightingale to be the man he is, as well as the scars these left that continue to haunt him in the present. There are many emotions with which readers will empathize. Those seeking adventure experience enormous waves, tempests at sea, fire, amputation, treachery, manipulation, and sea fights. Decisions made may surprise, but they showcase how staying true to oneself and being resolute in one’s decisions are the only ways to move beyond the past and begin anew.

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