The Seagull

by Wes Snowden

A spellbinding, inspiring story of courage and determination unfolds during the tumultuous four years leading up to the American War of Independence. It begins when a young, pampered London man suffers a reversal of fortune that puts him under the control of a despicable uncle. Against his will, Jeremy Whitehall is sent to Nantucket on a nefarious mission as part of his uncle's plan to take control of the New England candle industry. During his Atlantic crossing, Jeremy has second thoughts. His attempts to defy his uncle's orders lead him to form an alliance with the daughter of a Nantucket whaling ship captain. Through an unexpected calamity, Jeremy ends up at sea, where he begins his thrilling ascent from a wastrel to a man of destiny. From London's exclusive clubs to the deck of a whaler in heaving seas off the coast of exotic Brazil, Jeremy finds danger, excitement, wealth beyond measure, and finally, the arms of a woman destined to be his mate for life.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Adventure

417 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 5, 2024

Reviews

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Seagull transports us to the mid 1700’s where we meet Jeremy Whitehall, a young man who wastes away his days with drinking and gambling. His unpleasant uncle, who also happens to be his employer, sends him away to the states where he’s to spy on candle making companies to learn of their techniques and secrets. Unbeknownst to him, however, he’s about to embark an arduous journey that doesn’t go according to plan at all, and he finds love in the most unsuspecting of places. I wholeheartedly enjoyed this title, as we watch Jeremy do a complete 180. He becomes a determined, capable sea captain through various trials and hardships and now has the backbone to stand up to his uncle and to others, for that matter. Thank you to Netgalley for this opportunity!

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get transported to the past where one man will have an unexpected journey of adventure and love. His life will change as he learns a new way to live. Full of adventure and it was a brilliant read which I could not put down.
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and really loved where his story took me

[Kerry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gripping Yarn

I never award 5 stars on principle. This author came closer than any to breaking that habit. More Wes Snowden is in my future!

[Gary · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a complex story, filled with adventure and danger, friendship and love, lying and deceit, kindness and cruelty, all while telling the story of a young man who truly blossoms when he escapes from the heavy handed manipulation of his uncle. The story starts out in London in the late 18th century, but quickly moves to America. What starts for Jeremy Whitehall as a mission for his uncle to determine the reason for the scarcity of high quality candles being made at the American factory, quickly turns into an adventure where Jeremy learns much about the real world and about himself.

Being a good looking, though somewhat flabby, gentleman, Jeremy is quickly accepted by anyone who makes his acquaintance. He meets many women who find him attractive and desirable. His adventures rake him to Nantucket, Boston and points in South America because in order to get answers to his uncle's questions he must learn more about the whaling industry. Life aboard ships fills much of the reading. In fact it is because his first true love happens in a hay loft with a beautiful young woman, to whom he proposes marriage, that he ends up on a whaling ship. The young woman's father finds them and chases him off of their farm with a harpoon (being the owner and captain of a whaling ship). Jeremy in his flight boards the ship not knowing whose it is, but finds himself falling into the hold and knocking himself out. When he comes to, the ship is underway and he doesn't remember anything of his past or even his name. Thus begins his learning experience.

Jeremy gradually becomes stronger and fit when he must work on the ship as a lowly crew member. He eventually becomes invaluable because he is educated and has many talents. But still no memory of who he is. Well, I am getting bogged down with too many details and should conclude my review that the reader must be ready for shocks and surprises, mixed in with romance and intrigue. I truly loved the book in spite of it constantly making me wait far too long to know how every situation would turn out.

[BooksCoffee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Snowden’s latest is an exhilarating tale set during the turbulent years leading up to the American War of independence. Jeremy Whitehall, a privileged and irresponsible young man, faces a drastic life change after his father’s unexpected death leaves him reliant on a stipend controlled by his uncle, Rolland Silas Crabb. Tasked by Crabb to sabotage a candle-making establishment on Nantucket, Jeremy reluctantly agrees, but upon meeting the owner’s lovely daughter, Faith, he realizes he can’t proceed with the plan. Will he find the courage to defy his uncle?

Jeremy’s character undergoes a transformative journey as he faces challenging obstacles, prompting him to confront his past decisions. Initially apathetic, he shows fortitude and adaptability in resisting his uncle’s despicable demands. The story’s core revolves around Jeremy’s relationship with Faith, withstanding external forces threatening to tear them apart. As they navigate their vulnerabilities and strengths, the novel explores the complexities of their emotions for each other.

Tension between Jeremy and Crabb shifts the power dynamic, revealing conflicting interests and confrontations. The supporting characters add depth and nuance to the narrative. Snowden’s eloquent prose effortlessly transports readers across various settings, from the societal pressures of London to the promise of new beginnings on Nantucket’s shores and the allure of adventure in Brazil. Each location is vividly described with rich historical detail, enhancing the story’s depth.

The ending ties up loose ends while hinting at new mysteries yet to be unraveled, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. A poignant and thought-provoking read that showcases the enduring strength of love, courage, and the human spirit.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good that I couldn’t think how to put words into a review to describe it. The first thing I wrote was “Oh My Gosh”. I have read other Wes Snowden books, so I wasn’t surprised that the book was a good read. Nothing I’ve read that he has written has been anything but an exhilarating trip. But this one may even top those.

Jeremy, who is nothing but a lazy, drinking fop, is forced by his crabby old uncle to sail to Nantucket. His assignment is to find out what has happened to the source of whale oil and to find out in a sneaky, nefarious, underhanded way. But his trip on a ship from London to New England begins to change his thoughts as well as his plans. It will change his life forever.

There’s a bit of everything here, action, humor, danger, beautiful ladies, and even a little lovemaking. This is a thriller, but it is also a wonderful story of the sea. The hardships many sailors faced on whalers and other fishing boats become real with the descriptive writing. Aargh, even pirates take part in this story, matey.

Somehow the author molds all of this together into a great tale of the sea and makes you want more. Whatever magic he used sure worked on me. I want more.

[David Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been enjoying Wes Snowden’s books for a few years and he just seems to be getting better and better. The Seagull, his latest book, is a doozy. I can’t tell you whether it is a love story, an adventure story or an historical mystery, but I can tell you that it was great and kept my attention throughout. It certainly was an adventure.
It starts off with our young hero living a life of indolence and indulgence in London, England. Basically, an idle, spoiled brat until life changes when his father dies and he runs out of money. His mean spirited uncle sends him off to New England to find out how to corner the market in whale oil for candle making.
There his life begins to change, especially In Nantucket when he falls in love with Faith, the beautiful daughter of the candle maker owner. The story takes on numerous twists which change Jeremy forever. His adventures lead him to Boston, to London, and even to Brazil. He becomes an entirely different person, much to the better and to the surprise of his Uncle Crabb!
His subsequent adventures as a whaler and a sea captain leave you wanting for more. I trust that Mr. Snowden will indulge his readers.

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would not typically be drawn to a book about sailing ships. However,after reading the author's foreword and his sincere invitation to read it I thought why not.
The author's ability to describe in detail the eccentricity of the main characters aroused my curiosity to discover more I got so intrigued by the way the story played out that I could not put it down. There is no need for me to write a synopsis since others have.
As the story developed I became so engrossed and championed the main character as he blossomed from a privileged snob to an intellectually stimulating, hardworking individual. I was so enthralled by this fascinating tale of whaling. commercial fishing,old fashioned candle making and falling in love. A truly Don't miss read.
I can't wait for the sequel..
This is a wannabe film. AW

[Shelda Sparks · Rating 5 out of 5]

A MUST READ

Truly, a beautiful story. Set in a time period of hundreds of hundreds of years ago., life was hard and yet it was not much different than our current day. you just have to read it, there are a few intimate love scenes and several times that very bad word was used. The story would’ve been just as good without those words., but all in all, it’s a story of love conquest, growing up, turbulent periods, strong willed people who worked hard just to live. you will love it you must read it

[GW · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Seagull -

So this is a slightly awkward review for me to write; primarily because there are portions of the book that are intriguing and absorbing, but... there are other parts that are too convenient and so improbable that they detract from the overall believability of the story. That said, in the end I give it 3.5 stars but will round up to 4.
As an encouragement to the author I add, write the follow up book; I’d like to know what takes the protagonist to Scotland.

[Katherine]

A Riveting Historical Adventure with Heart
The Seagull swept me away from the first page! Wes Snowden masterfully blends historical fiction with adventure, romance, and personal growth, creating a story that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant. Jeremy Whitehall’s journey from a pampered young man to a man of honor is captivating, set against the vivid backdrop of pre-Revolutionary America and the high seas. A must-read for fans of historical fiction and immersive storytelling!

[Ash Laverty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book of Wes Snowden’s, and wow was it good! It is a historical adventure story, with a dash of romance sprinkled in. Jeremy had so many adventures in such a short amount of time, but they all tied together so wonderfully and the character grew as the book went on. I can’t wait to read the next instalment in the series!
4.5 out of 5 ⭐️

[Kayla Lister · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn’t believe this book was as many pages as it was because I flew through it!! I hadn’t read a book of this genre in quite awhile, especially one in this time period. The writing was quite funny at times, and the story flowed in a way that I was never noted. It didn’t feel like it dragged also, which I greatly appreciated.

[David Webster · Rating 5 out of 5]

A WONDERFUL STORY!!

The Colonial era was an interesting time. This story covers 1770-1773 in London, Boston, on Nantucket, and on a whaling ship in the Atlantic and South Atlantic, plus port calls in Brazil. It's a love story, and a rip roaring adventure story, too. This is certainly one of the best books I have ever read.
You will LOVE it!!!

[Don Maker · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very 'tall tale'

This is sort of like: 'space aliens invade Earth while the sun is about to nova and the moon splits in half'. If you can suspend disbelief, you should have an entertaining ride. I almost quit during the first chapter because it was so corny, but I am glad I stuck with it.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Need the Faith

The story has exciting sub problems. And the story keeps you guessing who will be the lady for Jeremy. All this intermingled with history of the time. Anybody who loves an amazing job of sharing the feelings and thoughts of a main character with words should read this book.

[L. Olhovsky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic novel by W.Snowden. His powerful and creative abilities shine through in all areas of this riveting tale.
Every moment, every word are full of passion and intrigue. I never wanted it to end!

[Heather McCann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I’ve long been a fan of Wes Snowden and this is the author at his finest. The historical details mixed with romance and intrigue and so many plot twists made it impossible to put down.

[Richard Werner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an engaging and well thought book. At the end, one can see that the author plans a series which he explains in his follow-up. I look forward to the next book in what I hope is a long series. I found this hard to put down as the story is intriguing as the author weaves the story.

[Diane & Bob Armington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast-moving

The Seagulls is an exciting venture in reading. I uttered "Oh no! " A number of times as the next adventure presented its challenges. The historical setting, vivid plot, and exciting characters made this a must read.

[Gabrielle Holmes · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book moves quickly keeping the reader’s interest throughout. The ending nicely wraps up the storyline, yet leaves you wanting more and looking forward to the next instalment.

[Rankin Galen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Seagull

Loved this book from the beginning. Ill anxiously await the sequel. Well written and hard to put down from the very start.

[Michael R. Zuelke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found The Seagull to be a very entertaining read with interesting characters. Leaving the ending open ended will give Mr. Snowden plenty of plot lines for a sequel. Hope that it will arrive soon!

[Stephanie Usherwood · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF

[N A Singleton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seagull

I found this book quite gripping. In fact I read it in 2 days. I sincerely hope we continue the saga of Captain Jeremy Whitehall.

[Roger Addis · Rating 5 out of 5]

swashbuckling

I enjoyed it from start to finish. The ups and downs of his life kept me keen to turn the next page.