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Hawk's Legacy #1
Captain Hawk
There is an alternate cover edition for this ISBN13 here.
Singapore 1823. The East India Company is in full pursuit of wealth and glory expanding the dominance of the United Kingdom around the world. Sir Thomas Stanford Raffles saw the potential in a tiny settlement on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula and knew it would be ideal for a free port. It would soon become one of the busiest and most lucrative ports in the East India Company’s portfolio, attracting merchants and pirates to its wharves.
Nathaniel Hawk arrives just before Christmas in order to spend the holidays with his father, Captain Sebastian Hawk, a famous East India Company Captain. Trained to captain his own ship, Nathaniel turned away from a life at sea in order to chase a life of gambling and adventure on land. He arrives in the East India Company’s latest free port intent on continuing his hedonistic pursuits.
When word reaches Singapore Captain Sebastian Hawk has finally been bested in a battle at sea with a ghost ship, none is more shocked that his son. Nathaniel will look for answers in the newly built colonial houses of the rich merchants as well as the opium dens of the slums looking for answers to his father’s disappearance. Only a return to sea will lead to the truth, but does he have the skill to seek out the ghost ship and learn its secrets?
Singapore 1823. The East India Company is in full pursuit of wealth and glory expanding the dominance of the United Kingdom around the world. Sir Thomas Stanford Raffles saw the potential in a tiny settlement on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula and knew it would be ideal for a free port. It would soon become one of the busiest and most lucrative ports in the East India Company’s portfolio, attracting merchants and pirates to its wharves.
Nathaniel Hawk arrives just before Christmas in order to spend the holidays with his father, Captain Sebastian Hawk, a famous East India Company Captain. Trained to captain his own ship, Nathaniel turned away from a life at sea in order to chase a life of gambling and adventure on land. He arrives in the East India Company’s latest free port intent on continuing his hedonistic pursuits.
When word reaches Singapore Captain Sebastian Hawk has finally been bested in a battle at sea with a ghost ship, none is more shocked that his son. Nathaniel will look for answers in the newly built colonial houses of the rich merchants as well as the opium dens of the slums looking for answers to his father’s disappearance. Only a return to sea will lead to the truth, but does he have the skill to seek out the ghost ship and learn its secrets?
367 pages, Paperback
First published April 28, 2015
16 people are currently reading
324 people want to read
About the author
S.J. Garland
8 books61 followersSJ Garland is a Canadian author residing in Singapore. She has published close to twenty books in several different genres, including Contemporary Romance under pen name P Nelson, Historical Romance and Historical Adventure.
Garland has spent over a decade living all over the world and is interested in learning people’s stories, sharing their history, and understanding their lives. Her historical adventure books are packed full of action and adventure, while her contemporary romance series is sultry and full of heart-warming happily ever after.
The Rebirth of Bao is her first foray into Magic Realism, incorporating her love of the mystical with a splash of Singapore.
Instagram: sjgarlandauthor
Facebook: @SJGarlandAuthor
Twitter: @SJGarland1
Garland has spent over a decade living all over the world and is interested in learning people’s stories, sharing their history, and understanding their lives. Her historical adventure books are packed full of action and adventure, while her contemporary romance series is sultry and full of heart-warming happily ever after.
The Rebirth of Bao is her first foray into Magic Realism, incorporating her love of the mystical with a splash of Singapore.
Instagram: sjgarlandauthor
Facebook: @SJGarlandAuthor
Twitter: @SJGarland1
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
May 8, 2015
Explosive foray into the early, heady days of Singapore!
Mad dogs and Englishman go out in the noon day sun!
Ah! Cricket, in Singapore, I can't even contemplate it. Even the thought of the heat makes me feel faint. Apparently cricket is part of the expat life in Singapore at the time of Sir Stamford Raffles and the First Resident, William Farquhar. Singapore in 1823 was the new trading frontier on the Malay Peninsula--a clearing house for rare spices, silks and porcelains from China. A place where the quest for riches vies with the unruliness of fortune seekers, trade ships and their crews, the Chinese secret organizations, and the Dutch threat.
Nathaniel Hawk has come to Singapore at his fathers request, only to find him gone, out testing a new ship. His father, Captain Sebastian Hawk, a renowned captain for the East India company is due back soon.
Only Captain Hawk doesn't return! From a handful of survivors it's determined that his ship was sunk by a rumoured 'ghost' ship, a will-o'-the-wisp, all black and terrible, hard to see against the twilight seas, with multiple and terrible guns that wreak havoc on its unsuspecting prey. It seems Captain Hawk has joined the litany of other victims.
Then there's the mad Dutch captain, Collaart who wants Nate's head at any cost, and First Resident Farquhar seems just the man to hand Nate over, especially when trade is being threatened.
So how much does cricket have to do with sailing ships, trade in the East Indies and this book. Perhaps it's the code, perhaps it's the not giving up, of playing the game out. Or perhaps for the English, it's a touch of home. I like the following explanation. Charlotte Carstairs asked her father's headman, 'Why do all trading metaphors come from cricket?" Bingham replies, "I imagine because it's we Brits are great at both.'
Put together the steamy, seamy sides of Singapore, the quarrels at the very top of society, questions about the safety of trade ships that could make and break fortunes, and the deteriorating personal relations that develop between Nate and his friends and there's plenty of grist for an explosive story. Add to the mix the charming and headstrong Charlotte Carstairs who will do anything to ensure her father's trading house succeeds, rather than unravel into bankruptcy and poverty; include the lure of opium, and the threat of cholera, and the recipe for mystery and intrigue deepens.
Nathaniel is a reluctant hero, of strong opinions and loyalties, an able fighter and seaman, who has turned his back on the sea. He only wants to hie back to England but finds himself thwarted by fate at every turn.
I enjoyed Garland's 'Markinch ' series immensely, and if this first book of the Hawk Legacy series is anything to go by, then this latest series will certainly live up to the same high standard previously set by Garland.
ARC from author
Mad dogs and Englishman go out in the noon day sun!
Ah! Cricket, in Singapore, I can't even contemplate it. Even the thought of the heat makes me feel faint. Apparently cricket is part of the expat life in Singapore at the time of Sir Stamford Raffles and the First Resident, William Farquhar. Singapore in 1823 was the new trading frontier on the Malay Peninsula--a clearing house for rare spices, silks and porcelains from China. A place where the quest for riches vies with the unruliness of fortune seekers, trade ships and their crews, the Chinese secret organizations, and the Dutch threat.
Nathaniel Hawk has come to Singapore at his fathers request, only to find him gone, out testing a new ship. His father, Captain Sebastian Hawk, a renowned captain for the East India company is due back soon.
Only Captain Hawk doesn't return! From a handful of survivors it's determined that his ship was sunk by a rumoured 'ghost' ship, a will-o'-the-wisp, all black and terrible, hard to see against the twilight seas, with multiple and terrible guns that wreak havoc on its unsuspecting prey. It seems Captain Hawk has joined the litany of other victims.
Then there's the mad Dutch captain, Collaart who wants Nate's head at any cost, and First Resident Farquhar seems just the man to hand Nate over, especially when trade is being threatened.
So how much does cricket have to do with sailing ships, trade in the East Indies and this book. Perhaps it's the code, perhaps it's the not giving up, of playing the game out. Or perhaps for the English, it's a touch of home. I like the following explanation. Charlotte Carstairs asked her father's headman, 'Why do all trading metaphors come from cricket?" Bingham replies, "I imagine because it's we Brits are great at both.'
Put together the steamy, seamy sides of Singapore, the quarrels at the very top of society, questions about the safety of trade ships that could make and break fortunes, and the deteriorating personal relations that develop between Nate and his friends and there's plenty of grist for an explosive story. Add to the mix the charming and headstrong Charlotte Carstairs who will do anything to ensure her father's trading house succeeds, rather than unravel into bankruptcy and poverty; include the lure of opium, and the threat of cholera, and the recipe for mystery and intrigue deepens.
Nathaniel is a reluctant hero, of strong opinions and loyalties, an able fighter and seaman, who has turned his back on the sea. He only wants to hie back to England but finds himself thwarted by fate at every turn.
I enjoyed Garland's 'Markinch ' series immensely, and if this first book of the Hawk Legacy series is anything to go by, then this latest series will certainly live up to the same high standard previously set by Garland.
ARC from author
June 5, 2023
The box asks me what do i think? I think that this book is brilliant! Firstly i would like to thank S.J Garland on my edition which i received through a giveaway entry.
The plot centers around Nathaniel Hawk, the son of Captain Sebastian Hawk, who returns to Singapore from London only to find out his father is dead. The book has a great sense of adventure to it and you can't help but get carried away whether Nate is on the Falcon, Star light or the Valkyrie.
The characters had depth and the book demonstrates the role both men and women had back in that era of time. That being men having the roles of Captains and clerks and women wearing dresses and carrying parasols.
Though some characters died, i felt i didn't know them enough to be really upset. Garland's use of description throughout the book was great. i could really imagine what was happening whether Nathaniel was on a ship or in the sweltering humidity of Singapore. There were a few grammatical errors here and there but they didn't affect the book too much. I enjoyed the wit and humour that would occasionally pop up, lightening the mood.
My favourite parts of the book by far are the battles at sea. I couldn't help but imagine the Pirates of the Caribbean tune along to them.
I happily anticipate the next book with open arms, so i can grab it and run that is. hehe. I also look forward to learning more about the dreaded ghost ship which attacks ships at the dead of night.
I rate it 5 stars for the awesome read... upon the high seas :)
The plot centers around Nathaniel Hawk, the son of Captain Sebastian Hawk, who returns to Singapore from London only to find out his father is dead. The book has a great sense of adventure to it and you can't help but get carried away whether Nate is on the Falcon, Star light or the Valkyrie.
The characters had depth and the book demonstrates the role both men and women had back in that era of time. That being men having the roles of Captains and clerks and women wearing dresses and carrying parasols.
Though some characters died, i felt i didn't know them enough to be really upset. Garland's use of description throughout the book was great. i could really imagine what was happening whether Nathaniel was on a ship or in the sweltering humidity of Singapore. There were a few grammatical errors here and there but they didn't affect the book too much. I enjoyed the wit and humour that would occasionally pop up, lightening the mood.
My favourite parts of the book by far are the battles at sea. I couldn't help but imagine the Pirates of the Caribbean tune along to them.
I happily anticipate the next book with open arms, so i can grab it and run that is. hehe. I also look forward to learning more about the dreaded ghost ship which attacks ships at the dead of night.
I rate it 5 stars for the awesome read... upon the high seas :)
March 3, 2017
Mayfair, Singapore Harbor. The Chinese Campong was had the best dens for playing faro cards & getting choice opium.
Captain Nathaniel “Nate” Hawk (retired ship Constance, East India Co. search/destroy missions), Masters, Buck, & Bishop, were about to enjoy a card game or 2.
They also enjoyed playing cricket.
They were going to see Captain Gan Ning (Chinese) & Smartie.
He might have information on the Navarch (cargo vessel) & why it was blown to pieces & sunk.
Captain Hawk & Bishop (sailor) were asking the 2 lots of questions.
Later Captain Hawk set sail from Malacca with Captain Bill Murchison (Falcon ship), Charlie Bernard (1st. mate), Hindly (steering), Buck, Blackson (2nd. In command), Murchison (boson mate), Finlayson (teen boy) & Dr. Wallace Matthias (ship’s surgeon), to retrace the steps the Navarch (cargo vessel) had journeyed.
Later the ship was being bombarded. Many had been killed.
It was time to abandon ship.
Captain Jacob Collaart (Dutch) might rescue the bunch of survivors & take them aboard the Nachtmerrie (clipper ship).
The Reliant & the Valkyrie were fast approaching also.
The Nachtmerrie had taken off.
They were all now in Singapore.
It was Christmas. Ms. Charlotte Carstairs daughter, Maggie Carstairs wife/mother), & Mr. William Carstairs (husband/father) were there to give them a warm welcome.
Captain Hawk needed to find Sarah Buck (William’s wife).
Cornelius Thistlewaite (husband, wealthy, Thistlewaite Trading House), & Margaret Thistlewaite (wife) were also there.
Next stop for Captain Hawk is to the Government House to meet with Thomas Raffles (East India Co.).
Later, Dr. Wallace Matthias had to amputate more of Hindly’s infected right arm stump.
Captain Hawk met with Zheng Jing (Chinese mediator, Xiōngdì leader) on behalf of Sarah.
That did not go as expected.
What did Captain Collaart plan to do?
What happened to Captain Edward Bishop?
What about Captain Hawk & Charlotte?
What about Captain Masters & Maggie?
Would Captain Collaart & Captain Hawk every meet up again?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow, a very well written sea-fearing adventure book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a large set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great sea-fearing adventure movie, animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; Maple Kakapo Publishing; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Captain Nathaniel “Nate” Hawk (retired ship Constance, East India Co. search/destroy missions), Masters, Buck, & Bishop, were about to enjoy a card game or 2.
They also enjoyed playing cricket.
They were going to see Captain Gan Ning (Chinese) & Smartie.
He might have information on the Navarch (cargo vessel) & why it was blown to pieces & sunk.
Captain Hawk & Bishop (sailor) were asking the 2 lots of questions.
Later Captain Hawk set sail from Malacca with Captain Bill Murchison (Falcon ship), Charlie Bernard (1st. mate), Hindly (steering), Buck, Blackson (2nd. In command), Murchison (boson mate), Finlayson (teen boy) & Dr. Wallace Matthias (ship’s surgeon), to retrace the steps the Navarch (cargo vessel) had journeyed.
Later the ship was being bombarded. Many had been killed.
It was time to abandon ship.
Captain Jacob Collaart (Dutch) might rescue the bunch of survivors & take them aboard the Nachtmerrie (clipper ship).
The Reliant & the Valkyrie were fast approaching also.
The Nachtmerrie had taken off.
They were all now in Singapore.
It was Christmas. Ms. Charlotte Carstairs daughter, Maggie Carstairs wife/mother), & Mr. William Carstairs (husband/father) were there to give them a warm welcome.
Captain Hawk needed to find Sarah Buck (William’s wife).
Cornelius Thistlewaite (husband, wealthy, Thistlewaite Trading House), & Margaret Thistlewaite (wife) were also there.
Next stop for Captain Hawk is to the Government House to meet with Thomas Raffles (East India Co.).
Later, Dr. Wallace Matthias had to amputate more of Hindly’s infected right arm stump.
Captain Hawk met with Zheng Jing (Chinese mediator, Xiōngdì leader) on behalf of Sarah.
That did not go as expected.
What did Captain Collaart plan to do?
What happened to Captain Edward Bishop?
What about Captain Hawk & Charlotte?
What about Captain Masters & Maggie?
Would Captain Collaart & Captain Hawk every meet up again?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow, a very well written sea-fearing adventure book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a large set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great sea-fearing adventure movie, animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; Maple Kakapo Publishing; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
January 17, 2017
tall ship/deep water
I enjoyed this book. I like naval stories, especially where the terms are correct. I dont understand the purpose or reason for the ghost, but maybe in thenext book it will become clear. this was a good read. i hope every one else who reads this book enjoys it as much as I did.
I enjoyed this book. I like naval stories, especially where the terms are correct. I dont understand the purpose or reason for the ghost, but maybe in thenext book it will become clear. this was a good read. i hope every one else who reads this book enjoys it as much as I did.
February 22, 2019
Me lo regalo mi mejor amigo hace como 3 años, al principio me ha encantado porque creí que esto me ayudaría a entrar en la historia de la piratería y de la East India Company.
Es una lectura ligera y bien escrita, sin embargo, el enfoque que Garland le da, no me ha atrapado por completo.
Sin duda la recomendaría si me preguntarán por él.
Es una lectura ligera y bien escrita, sin embargo, el enfoque que Garland le da, no me ha atrapado por completo.
Sin duda la recomendaría si me preguntarán por él.
April 22, 2018
Was interesting in its own way, but the book cover is a good representation of the type of book it is. #linkread
March 1, 2017
n a surprise move, Nathaniel Hawk is summoned by his father to Singapore before Christmas in 1823. Captain Sebastian Hawk is one of the finest sailors in the East India Company, leading ships laiden with silk and spices between England and Singapore. Looking to lay ground in Singapore, the British face hostilities from the Dutch, who’ve often plundered ships. Nathaniel does not have the ambitions of his father, and is not passionate of the seas. Soon after his arrival in Singapore, he receives news that his father’s ship has sunk, and that all men aboard drowned at sea. There is also talk of a “Ghost ship” which is haunting sailors in the Indian ocean, which Nathaniel does not believe in. Numbed by the shock, Nathaniel vows to find the cause and consequences of his father’s death. Armed with his father’s acquaintances on land, Nathaniel eventually forays into the mighty seas, searching for answers.
S.J. Garland has penned an excellent mystery, one which sets pace for a sequel. The novel is fast-paced, the characters are witty and cunning, and the dialogues and setting are reminiscent of British high society. Highly recommended for readers of mystery and historical fiction genre.
S.J. Garland has penned an excellent mystery, one which sets pace for a sequel. The novel is fast-paced, the characters are witty and cunning, and the dialogues and setting are reminiscent of British high society. Highly recommended for readers of mystery and historical fiction genre.
June 3, 2015
Sail, not drift – A review of the novel ‘Captain Hawk’
“I can't control the wind but I can adjust the sail.” - Ricky Skaggs
Author SJ Garland’s novel ‘Captain Hawk’ chronicles the lives of British and Dutch expats in Singapore at the pinnacle of the East India Company’s reign. It’s set in the early 1800’s and we follow the adventures of Nathaniel Hawk, an able and highly trained seaman who would rather seek glory and adventures on land than out on the sea. But after a series of nefarious mishaps threaten the peaceful existence of the shipping business, Nathaniel finds himself at the centre of it all especially after a great tragedy strikes close to home. This is the story of a man who must desperately find answers to secrets surrounding his life, not only to find closure but also to secure his future.
Nathaniel is the quintessential reluctant hero who would rather follow a different life path from the one he’s preordained to follow. But a series of events doesn’t allow him this luxury and he finds himself having to take on great responsibilities in the midst of ruins everywhere. Nathaniel’s growth graph has been brilliantly charted by the author, he’s not presented as a finished hero product, and neither does he become one by the end. But the growth in his character, his own realization of his purpose in life makes for a highly interesting lead character. This change in him can be seen throughout the book as we see the changing dynamics of his relationship with other important characters. Nathaniel as a literary character has plenty going for him and is someone you can spin plenty of adventure stories around.
The book uses both Nathaniel and Charlotte to cleverly narrate this story. In the Nathaniel narrative you get to peek inside the mind of the lead character and become privy to all the action and adventure from a first person’s objective. While from the Charlotte’s point of view, we not only get to see the important role her character plays but are also introduced to a host of secondary characters and sub-plots that help in establishing an identity for the place and era in which the story is set in. This helps the reader feel more connected with these characters and could prove beneficial when the sequel comes out.
The writing is very precise and at the same time is highly descriptive too, giving all the scenes a visual comprehension. Various themes like identity crisis, the complexity and uniqueness of father-son relationships, family honor, etc find flavor in the author’s writing. Being a historical fiction, this book introduces to you a different side of Singapore and history really does come alive in this melting pot of different cultures and personalities. The realism employed by the author often makes you forget the fact that you are reading a fictional book.
It’s a great start to a brand new series by a talented author!
“I can't control the wind but I can adjust the sail.” - Ricky Skaggs
Author SJ Garland’s novel ‘Captain Hawk’ chronicles the lives of British and Dutch expats in Singapore at the pinnacle of the East India Company’s reign. It’s set in the early 1800’s and we follow the adventures of Nathaniel Hawk, an able and highly trained seaman who would rather seek glory and adventures on land than out on the sea. But after a series of nefarious mishaps threaten the peaceful existence of the shipping business, Nathaniel finds himself at the centre of it all especially after a great tragedy strikes close to home. This is the story of a man who must desperately find answers to secrets surrounding his life, not only to find closure but also to secure his future.
Nathaniel is the quintessential reluctant hero who would rather follow a different life path from the one he’s preordained to follow. But a series of events doesn’t allow him this luxury and he finds himself having to take on great responsibilities in the midst of ruins everywhere. Nathaniel’s growth graph has been brilliantly charted by the author, he’s not presented as a finished hero product, and neither does he become one by the end. But the growth in his character, his own realization of his purpose in life makes for a highly interesting lead character. This change in him can be seen throughout the book as we see the changing dynamics of his relationship with other important characters. Nathaniel as a literary character has plenty going for him and is someone you can spin plenty of adventure stories around.
The book uses both Nathaniel and Charlotte to cleverly narrate this story. In the Nathaniel narrative you get to peek inside the mind of the lead character and become privy to all the action and adventure from a first person’s objective. While from the Charlotte’s point of view, we not only get to see the important role her character plays but are also introduced to a host of secondary characters and sub-plots that help in establishing an identity for the place and era in which the story is set in. This helps the reader feel more connected with these characters and could prove beneficial when the sequel comes out.
The writing is very precise and at the same time is highly descriptive too, giving all the scenes a visual comprehension. Various themes like identity crisis, the complexity and uniqueness of father-son relationships, family honor, etc find flavor in the author’s writing. Being a historical fiction, this book introduces to you a different side of Singapore and history really does come alive in this melting pot of different cultures and personalities. The realism employed by the author often makes you forget the fact that you are reading a fictional book.
It’s a great start to a brand new series by a talented author!
February 22, 2017
Singapore 1823, piracy, adventure, murder and mystery; this is a great historical fiction novel which kept me thoroughly entertained throughout. Nathaniel Hawk was a fantastic protagonist with the right balance of strengths and weaknesses to make him realistic and endearing. The interest and research the author had done about the east India Company and the period comes through effortlessly in the writing. I liked Nathaniel’s up and down relationship with his father. I felt their bond and struggles were genuine and well written which made the book overall more enjoyable. I don’t know why but I just didn’t like Charlotte’s character at all. It wasn’t anything about the story or the writing; sometimes you don’t like certain characters in books.
I think the action sets up perfectly for a series and I definitely will be picking up the next book in the future. Highly recommended for historical fiction fans.
I think the action sets up perfectly for a series and I definitely will be picking up the next book in the future. Highly recommended for historical fiction fans.
June 15, 2015
Captain Hawk by SJ Garland is a high seas adventure in the Far East. The story of Nathaniel Hawk who comes to Singapore in 1823 at the request of his estranged father. He walked away from the sailing life, vowing never to be the man his father wants him to be. When he arrives, he receives devastating news. Will he answer the call of the seas or will he take on the mantle that his father raised him to be?
Nathaniel Hawk arrives in Singapore for the Christmas holiday and his father has left on a secret mission for the East India Company. There is a ghost ship haunting the seas, sinking ships and leaving no witnesses. He soon is brought into the tensions between the British and Dutch sailors as the two countries are currently in peace talks over trade in the East Indies. An enemy of his father’s, a Dutch captain named Collaart, has turned his animosity to Nathaniel and vows revenge. He meets Charlotte Carstairs, a woman born too soon. A brain for business, she is the wrong gender for 1823 trade but her father trusts her instincts as she tries to save the family name from ruin. Is there a curse following the Hawk and his friends? Will they ever find the ghost ship?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved the mystery of the ghost ship and the mysterious crew. I loved the tension with Nathaniel and Captain Collaart as Nathaniel is desperately trying not to be pulled into his father’s world. I love the interactions between Nathaniel and Charlotte and low and slow burning romance between them. I can’t wait for the sequel which is set to be released in November. It’s already on my want-to-read list. I highly recommend Captain Hawk.
Nathaniel Hawk arrives in Singapore for the Christmas holiday and his father has left on a secret mission for the East India Company. There is a ghost ship haunting the seas, sinking ships and leaving no witnesses. He soon is brought into the tensions between the British and Dutch sailors as the two countries are currently in peace talks over trade in the East Indies. An enemy of his father’s, a Dutch captain named Collaart, has turned his animosity to Nathaniel and vows revenge. He meets Charlotte Carstairs, a woman born too soon. A brain for business, she is the wrong gender for 1823 trade but her father trusts her instincts as she tries to save the family name from ruin. Is there a curse following the Hawk and his friends? Will they ever find the ghost ship?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved the mystery of the ghost ship and the mysterious crew. I loved the tension with Nathaniel and Captain Collaart as Nathaniel is desperately trying not to be pulled into his father’s world. I love the interactions between Nathaniel and Charlotte and low and slow burning romance between them. I can’t wait for the sequel which is set to be released in November. It’s already on my want-to-read list. I highly recommend Captain Hawk.
May 25, 2015
*Independent reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock*
5 fangs
Awesome flashback into the times of trading and sea travel. Nathaniel Hawk is summoned back to Singapore to spend Christmas with his estranged father Sebastian. Captain Hawk trained his son well to follow in his footsteps, but the sea did not call to Nathaniel and it created a gap between father and son. Nathaniel was not thrilled to be going to Singapore, but did so to appease his father. He's not in port long before word of Captain Hawk's demise spreads. Captain Hawk was seeking out the ghost ship that had been attacking the merchant ships coming into and leaving port and he lost. This news floors Nathaniel. His father was the best military captain around, how could he lose? Some of Nathaniel's old friends are also in port, gearing up for the trading season to begin and Nathaniel is talked into going with Captain Buck to seek out and destroy this ghost ship. It turns out to be a fruitless mission. Nathaniel is quickly discovering that the sins of the father are will be visited upon the children. Can he get out of Singapore and back to London before any more bad luck should fall him? More importantly, does he want to? He still has more questions than answers but what's more important the answers or his life?
5 fangs
Awesome flashback into the times of trading and sea travel. Nathaniel Hawk is summoned back to Singapore to spend Christmas with his estranged father Sebastian. Captain Hawk trained his son well to follow in his footsteps, but the sea did not call to Nathaniel and it created a gap between father and son. Nathaniel was not thrilled to be going to Singapore, but did so to appease his father. He's not in port long before word of Captain Hawk's demise spreads. Captain Hawk was seeking out the ghost ship that had been attacking the merchant ships coming into and leaving port and he lost. This news floors Nathaniel. His father was the best military captain around, how could he lose? Some of Nathaniel's old friends are also in port, gearing up for the trading season to begin and Nathaniel is talked into going with Captain Buck to seek out and destroy this ghost ship. It turns out to be a fruitless mission. Nathaniel is quickly discovering that the sins of the father are will be visited upon the children. Can he get out of Singapore and back to London before any more bad luck should fall him? More importantly, does he want to? He still has more questions than answers but what's more important the answers or his life?
June 6, 2015
(3 and a half stars)
I'm a regular reader of historical fiction so I was really looking forward to reading Captain Hawk. I enjoyed the novel, but I'm not entirely sure I would seek out any more in this particular series.
Nathanial Hawk (Nate) is a seaman who would rather spend his time on land. Travelling to Singapore to meet his father he is devastated to learn some tragic news upon his arrival which at first he doesn't believe.
Consequently Nathaniel is talked in to a series of situations which he really wants no part in. The ending I am assuming is to lead nicely in to the next novel of the series.
There is no doubt that Nathanial is a handsome and intelligent man, but his narrative for me, didn't somehow ring as true as other historical fiction novels I have read, but maybe I've just been reading the wrong ones! There may be some readers who also query the situatons he finds himself in, but I had no reason to do so. The historical period and location were set up perfectly by the author, I just wasn't a massive fan of the novel in its entireity.
A huge thank you to THE Book Club on Facebook to providing me with a digital copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I'm a regular reader of historical fiction so I was really looking forward to reading Captain Hawk. I enjoyed the novel, but I'm not entirely sure I would seek out any more in this particular series.
Nathanial Hawk (Nate) is a seaman who would rather spend his time on land. Travelling to Singapore to meet his father he is devastated to learn some tragic news upon his arrival which at first he doesn't believe.
Consequently Nathaniel is talked in to a series of situations which he really wants no part in. The ending I am assuming is to lead nicely in to the next novel of the series.
There is no doubt that Nathanial is a handsome and intelligent man, but his narrative for me, didn't somehow ring as true as other historical fiction novels I have read, but maybe I've just been reading the wrong ones! There may be some readers who also query the situatons he finds himself in, but I had no reason to do so. The historical period and location were set up perfectly by the author, I just wasn't a massive fan of the novel in its entireity.
A huge thank you to THE Book Club on Facebook to providing me with a digital copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2015
Captain Hawk
By S.J. Garland
Maple Kakapo Publishing Ltd.; 2015
At a request by letter from his father, gambler Nathaniel Hawk sails to Singapore. Upon arrival, Nathaniel's father, Sabastian Hawk isn't around. In fact, the famous East India Company captain is late to return, and seems to have gone missing. Did he meet his demise at the hands of a mysterious ghost ship - or is he just delayed?
Will Nathaniel Hawk give up his hedonistic lifestyle and once again sail on a ship in search of what happened to his father? And if he does, will Nathaniel find his father - or survive his own possible encounter with the rumoured ghost ship?
S.J. Garland's new book, "Captain Hawk" is a well researched, well written, all around fabulous tale of adventure!
I received this book for free to review. I am a member of Goodreads, LibraryThing, NetGalley and maintain a book blog at dbettenson.wordpress.com.
By S.J. Garland
Maple Kakapo Publishing Ltd.; 2015
At a request by letter from his father, gambler Nathaniel Hawk sails to Singapore. Upon arrival, Nathaniel's father, Sabastian Hawk isn't around. In fact, the famous East India Company captain is late to return, and seems to have gone missing. Did he meet his demise at the hands of a mysterious ghost ship - or is he just delayed?
Will Nathaniel Hawk give up his hedonistic lifestyle and once again sail on a ship in search of what happened to his father? And if he does, will Nathaniel find his father - or survive his own possible encounter with the rumoured ghost ship?
S.J. Garland's new book, "Captain Hawk" is a well researched, well written, all around fabulous tale of adventure!
I received this book for free to review. I am a member of Goodreads, LibraryThing, NetGalley and maintain a book blog at dbettenson.wordpress.com.
May 29, 2015
I was asked to read this book in exchange for a honest review.
This story revolves around Nathanial Hawk and how he is reluctantly dragged back into the "family business".
As a lover of history and also having been born in Singapore I was looking forward to reading about Singapore in its early days. I was not disappointed. This is a well written historical novel with something to suit everyone, love, hate, betrayal and don't forget the battles!
S J Garland manages to interweave the lives of the characters with the history of Singapore and tales of adventure. This is a story of friendships renewed and broken, determination to succeed at any cost and romance.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, it kept me engaged and turning the pages to find out what happened next. I would highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the next instalment.
This story revolves around Nathanial Hawk and how he is reluctantly dragged back into the "family business".
As a lover of history and also having been born in Singapore I was looking forward to reading about Singapore in its early days. I was not disappointed. This is a well written historical novel with something to suit everyone, love, hate, betrayal and don't forget the battles!
S J Garland manages to interweave the lives of the characters with the history of Singapore and tales of adventure. This is a story of friendships renewed and broken, determination to succeed at any cost and romance.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, it kept me engaged and turning the pages to find out what happened next. I would highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the next instalment.
June 21, 2015
I enjoy historical fiction so was looking forward to reading this novel that takes place in Singapore in 1823.
Nathaniel Hawk has reluctantly travelled to Singapore to spend Christmas with his father. He would much rather be in the gambling dens in London rather than in the Singapore heat. He doesn't share his father's enthusiasm for life at sea but has no choice when tragedy occurs.
Murder, piracy and romance all feature throughout the novel but for me the romantic aspect didn't work. I didn't really care for any of the female characters. However the descriptions of live in Singapore, alongside the main story of live out at sea with the terror facing the 'ghost ship was very good.
The ending felt a little abrupt but the sequel is due in Nov 2015. With thanks to THE book club on Facebook for the copy received.
Nathaniel Hawk has reluctantly travelled to Singapore to spend Christmas with his father. He would much rather be in the gambling dens in London rather than in the Singapore heat. He doesn't share his father's enthusiasm for life at sea but has no choice when tragedy occurs.
Murder, piracy and romance all feature throughout the novel but for me the romantic aspect didn't work. I didn't really care for any of the female characters. However the descriptions of live in Singapore, alongside the main story of live out at sea with the terror facing the 'ghost ship was very good.
The ending felt a little abrupt but the sequel is due in Nov 2015. With thanks to THE book club on Facebook for the copy received.
July 20, 2015
A very good read.. I have to admit at first it felt a bit slow. The cricket match bored me to tears, as I have no clue what all those terms mean. I didn't let it mess with me. ;) I really enjoyed the points of view of the 2 main characters. I couldn't really tell if they were going to end up together or not. I cried when some characters died and was enamoured of Hawk's thought processes. And Charlotte feeling so frustrated at her fathers bad choices and her brothers less than stellar business savvy(aka none). Hawk steps up to be the hero even tho he just wants to return to England and resume his boring life there. ;) I rated it 5 stars because even tho I felt a bit lost and bored at the very beginning once the story picked up I was enthralled.
“I received a copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review”.
“I received a copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review”.
February 20, 2016
If you're into historical fiction and adventure, this might be for you. I delved into the book and enjoyed the seas, it kept me interested...I wanted to know what was going to happen next. Nathan prefers the safety and security of dry land, but trouble out on the waters draws him to his father's love of the sea. While I was unable to really relate to the characters, I did appreciate that the story is well written and different. There are a few errors in spelling that I couldn't help but notice. While I received this book for reviewing purposes, this review is written based on my unbiased opinion.
June 19, 2015
I received a copy of this book from THE Book Club in exchange of an honest review.
I liked this book. I have to be honest, in the beginning I thought it was a bit slow but at some point, the rhythm picked up and I couldn't put it do. It was the first historical fiction based in this era and I enjoyed it. I would recommend it for those who like the genre. I noticed that there is a sequel and I will definitely put it on my to-read list.
I liked this book. I have to be honest, in the beginning I thought it was a bit slow but at some point, the rhythm picked up and I couldn't put it do. It was the first historical fiction based in this era and I enjoyed it. I would recommend it for those who like the genre. I noticed that there is a sequel and I will definitely put it on my to-read list.
July 3, 2015
3.5 actually.
I think it is a good book, great written, and enjoyable. But it a little bit off my alley. It is something I normally don't read. If I judge it without personal opinion for what it is! I would say this, the book is full of imagination, historical era is perfectly visualised, and the narration flows nicely. Not something I would normally pick, but if you think it sounds interesting, and something you read, you should give it a chance you might end up loving it!
I think it is a good book, great written, and enjoyable. But it a little bit off my alley. It is something I normally don't read. If I judge it without personal opinion for what it is! I would say this, the book is full of imagination, historical era is perfectly visualised, and the narration flows nicely. Not something I would normally pick, but if you think it sounds interesting, and something you read, you should give it a chance you might end up loving it!
July 12, 2015
received from Netgalley for honest review.A riviting read in and about Singapore with pirates , sailors and how Nathaniel Hawk comes to grips with his fathers disappearance.
Brilliantly thought out and a thoroughly enjoyable read.
The characters were really well put together and this made for a great read.
This is kind of Historical fiction with added extras thrown in for good measure.
I would recommend you give it a go.
Brilliantly thought out and a thoroughly enjoyable read.
The characters were really well put together and this made for a great read.
This is kind of Historical fiction with added extras thrown in for good measure.
I would recommend you give it a go.
July 28, 2015
- I received this book free in exchange for an honest review -
This is probably one of the best historical fictions I have ever read in a long time. As Nathanial tries to escape his father's legacy - it seems that his father's legacy catches up to him. As he finds out that his father has been bested at sea, Nathanial looks for answers. While doing this, he may discover more than he bargained for. I suggest this to anyone who enjoys history.
This is probably one of the best historical fictions I have ever read in a long time. As Nathanial tries to escape his father's legacy - it seems that his father's legacy catches up to him. As he finds out that his father has been bested at sea, Nathanial looks for answers. While doing this, he may discover more than he bargained for. I suggest this to anyone who enjoys history.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2015
Great book about the East India Trading Company, in the vein of Pirates of the Caribbean. Adventurous, humorous, some romance, with a bit of wit and lots of authenticity, as the Canadian author is currently living in Singapore. Rich, diverse, and intriguing, I could not put it down and can't wait for the next book. Muti-faced characters and full of professional qualities, this author is destined to be a best-seller. Hoping for a movie.....
April 1, 2016
I was drawn right into the story and loved the plot of it. Nathaniel Hawk, who is the son of Captain Sebastian Hawk, returns to Singapore from his time in London to find out his father is dead. This book was filled with adventure and mystery. I was hooked from the first page!
An engaging novel I really enjoyed! I recommend it to everyone! Especially those readers who love a great story filled with adventure.
An engaging novel I really enjoyed! I recommend it to everyone! Especially those readers who love a great story filled with adventure.
November 27, 2015
** A free copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. **
An entertaining sea-based escapade. If you like a tale set upon water, characters that all hold secrets, and a setting of the Far East, this is a must-read. The hint of piracy while sailing was nicely nuanced and the fact that the characters were not morally pure added a realistic touch.
An entertaining sea-based escapade. If you like a tale set upon water, characters that all hold secrets, and a setting of the Far East, this is a must-read. The hint of piracy while sailing was nicely nuanced and the fact that the characters were not morally pure added a realistic touch.
November 21, 2016
This book is peopled with realistiv characters--both good and evil. The autbor does not waste
Words in detailed descriptions of houses or clothing but conveys enough while letting the people carry out the actiom. I could not put thebook down onceI I started and wasdisalpointed when it ended
Words in detailed descriptions of houses or clothing but conveys enough while letting the people carry out the actiom. I could not put thebook down onceI I started and wasdisalpointed when it ended
August 10, 2015
I received a copy via THE Bookclub on Facebook.
It fairly gallops along once it gets going. Full of swashbuckling and sword thrusting, gung-ho and derring do. Strangely I didn't like it much. Certainly not enough to read the next one.
It fairly gallops along once it gets going. Full of swashbuckling and sword thrusting, gung-ho and derring do. Strangely I didn't like it much. Certainly not enough to read the next one.
January 7, 2017
If you are looking for a maritime adventure, this ain't it. The story is interesting, but mainly when Hawk is ashore. For example, he calls the bosun a "boson," (as in the subatomic particle), and makes other nautical missteps that indicate he does not yet have his sea legs.
May 23, 2015
This author is getting better with every book. Latest book again combines history, romance and adventure in a action packed book.
April 1, 2017
Captain Hawk
I liked the story a lot. It was very well written. The characters were very interesting and very alive. I really liked the character of Captain Hawk.
I liked the story a lot. It was very well written. The characters were very interesting and very alive. I really liked the character of Captain Hawk.
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