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Harbor of Spies: A Novel of Historic Havana
HARBOR OF SPIES is an historical novel set in Havana in 1863 during the American Civil War, when the Spanish colonial city was alive with intrigue and war related espionage. The protagonist - a young American ship captain by the name of Everett Townsend - is pulled into the war, not as a Naval Academy midshipman, as he had once hoped, but as the captain of a Havana-based blockade-running schooner.
Even as Townsend gets entangled in the war effort, he also finds himself being pulled into the dangerous investigation of a murdered English diplomat which threatens his own life. Townsend becomes ensnared in the investigation of the Backhouse murder by rescuing a man from the sea, who turns out to be a prison escapee from El Morro Castle. That good deed to help this stranger condemns the protagonist himself to a Spanish prison, and sets in motion a plot where Townsend struggles to maintain his own sense of identity. He falls into the clutches of a Spanish merchant, who is making money off the American war, who introduces him to a world of spies, slave traders, and Spanish seductresses.
From the bars, to the docks, to the dance halls, Townsend takes us into colonial Havana and then to the slave plantations in the interior even as he prepares his ship to run the blockade. The protagonist's trouble-ridden experience leads him to become emotionally involved with the daughter of an American innkeeper in Havana. Together they help each other grapple with the uncertain moral terrain of a city caught up in the American war and the growing controversy over slavery.
Throughout the novel, Townsend can never shake loose the mystery about the man he helped save. As a foreigner and an outsider, he finds himself trapped by mysterious forces and circumstances beyond his control which ironically help him discover his own family roots in Cuba, and finally convince him to become a spy for the North. The novel is not only a richly drawn portrait of Spanish colonial Havana in the days when Cuba was flush with sugar wealth, but also provides a realistic look at the blockade runners that helped form the supply line into the South's Gulf ports. A little-known fact about blockade running in the Gulf of Mexico in the early years of the Civil War is the important role that sailing schooners played in bringing arms and ammunition into the shallow harbors, bays and inlets that line the Gulf coast from Florida to Texas.
Even as Townsend gets entangled in the war effort, he also finds himself being pulled into the dangerous investigation of a murdered English diplomat which threatens his own life. Townsend becomes ensnared in the investigation of the Backhouse murder by rescuing a man from the sea, who turns out to be a prison escapee from El Morro Castle. That good deed to help this stranger condemns the protagonist himself to a Spanish prison, and sets in motion a plot where Townsend struggles to maintain his own sense of identity. He falls into the clutches of a Spanish merchant, who is making money off the American war, who introduces him to a world of spies, slave traders, and Spanish seductresses.
From the bars, to the docks, to the dance halls, Townsend takes us into colonial Havana and then to the slave plantations in the interior even as he prepares his ship to run the blockade. The protagonist's trouble-ridden experience leads him to become emotionally involved with the daughter of an American innkeeper in Havana. Together they help each other grapple with the uncertain moral terrain of a city caught up in the American war and the growing controversy over slavery.
Throughout the novel, Townsend can never shake loose the mystery about the man he helped save. As a foreigner and an outsider, he finds himself trapped by mysterious forces and circumstances beyond his control which ironically help him discover his own family roots in Cuba, and finally convince him to become a spy for the North. The novel is not only a richly drawn portrait of Spanish colonial Havana in the days when Cuba was flush with sugar wealth, but also provides a realistic look at the blockade runners that helped form the supply line into the South's Gulf ports. A little-known fact about blockade running in the Gulf of Mexico in the early years of the Civil War is the important role that sailing schooners played in bringing arms and ammunition into the shallow harbors, bays and inlets that line the Gulf coast from Florida to Texas.
308 pages, Hardcover
First published March 1, 2018
19 people are currently reading
1554 people want to read
About the author
Robin Lloyd
3 books31 followersRobin Lloyd's early years were spent on the island of St. Croix, where his parents owned a dairy farm and milk plant. As a boy, he grew up sailing in the Caribbean. Lloyd was a foreign correspondent for NBC News for many years, where he reported mostly from Latin America and Africa. He also covered the White House during the Reagan and Bush administrations. Lloyd has created and produced news programs with foreign networks as well as documentaries and segments for domestic stations, including Maryland Public Television. Among his prestigious awards are four Emmys from the National Capital Chesapeake Bay region and an Overseas Press Award. He lives in Chevy Chase, Maryland.
“Robin Lloyd is a great reporter, and he has shaped meticulous research into a rollicking story of the sea and the tall ships that sailed the North Atlantic in the 1800s. Amazingly, he hadn't planned to write a novel when he began reading about his ancestor, Elisha Ely Morgan—who knew everyone of his day, from Charles Dickens to Queen Victoria. We can be glad that the more [Lloyd] read, the more he realized he had the makings of a fine story.” — Bob Schieffer, chief Washington correspondent, CBS News
“Robin Lloyd is a great reporter, and he has shaped meticulous research into a rollicking story of the sea and the tall ships that sailed the North Atlantic in the 1800s. Amazingly, he hadn't planned to write a novel when he began reading about his ancestor, Elisha Ely Morgan—who knew everyone of his day, from Charles Dickens to Queen Victoria. We can be glad that the more [Lloyd] read, the more he realized he had the makings of a fine story.” — Bob Schieffer, chief Washington correspondent, CBS News
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
December 5, 2018
4 stars to Harbor of Spies! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
It’s 1863, and the American Civil War is occurring, while Havana is under Spanish rule as a colony and a hotbed of possible espionage. The main character, Everett Townsend, is a young ship captain given orders to direct a blockade-running schooner out of Havana.
Several events occur while Townsend is involved in the war, and one, where he helps a mysterious man from the sea, lands him in a Spanish prison. Through those prison connections, he is hooked into the seedier side of Havana with spies and slave traders.
It all circles back around to the mysterious man. Why have they crossed paths? And what will become of Townsend when he chooses to become a spy for the North?
Colonial Havana comes to life in this novel. Rich in wealth from sugar plantations, Havana was in its heyday. The author describes the setting and time with vibrancy. Townsend is a complex main character who is easy to like, and the book takes on an adventurous feel. Overall, I was fascinated and mesmerized with all I learned in this entertaining and well-written historical novel.
Thank you to Get Red PR and the author for the invitation to read and review Harbor of Spies.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
It’s 1863, and the American Civil War is occurring, while Havana is under Spanish rule as a colony and a hotbed of possible espionage. The main character, Everett Townsend, is a young ship captain given orders to direct a blockade-running schooner out of Havana.
Several events occur while Townsend is involved in the war, and one, where he helps a mysterious man from the sea, lands him in a Spanish prison. Through those prison connections, he is hooked into the seedier side of Havana with spies and slave traders.
It all circles back around to the mysterious man. Why have they crossed paths? And what will become of Townsend when he chooses to become a spy for the North?
Colonial Havana comes to life in this novel. Rich in wealth from sugar plantations, Havana was in its heyday. The author describes the setting and time with vibrancy. Townsend is a complex main character who is easy to like, and the book takes on an adventurous feel. Overall, I was fascinated and mesmerized with all I learned in this entertaining and well-written historical novel.
Thank you to Get Red PR and the author for the invitation to read and review Harbor of Spies.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
June 11, 2018
3.5 stars
I stepped out of my comfort zone a bit with this one as I don't typically read Civil War era historical fiction. But the reason this book caught my interest was the setting was Cuba rather than the United States and it explores the role shipping played in the war. Slave trade by other countries besides the United States is another subject that gets brought up in the book. This is why the book is unique rather than just another typical battlefield/romance story.
While the characters are fictional, part of the story is based on the real life murder of an English diplomat. I'll admit I found myself more interested in that story line and the stuff taking place in Cuba rather than when the action was on the ship. I thought the main character, Everett Townsend was well-developed and I enjoyed his interactions with Emma.
One of the reasons I enjoy historical fiction is it can introduce you to a part of history you previously knew very little about and make you want to find out more when the story is over. I definitely recommend if you like Civil War historical fiction because it does bring something different to the genre.
I won a free copy of this book in a giveaway by Shelf Awareness. I was under no obligation to post a review and all views expressed are my honest opinion.
I stepped out of my comfort zone a bit with this one as I don't typically read Civil War era historical fiction. But the reason this book caught my interest was the setting was Cuba rather than the United States and it explores the role shipping played in the war. Slave trade by other countries besides the United States is another subject that gets brought up in the book. This is why the book is unique rather than just another typical battlefield/romance story.
While the characters are fictional, part of the story is based on the real life murder of an English diplomat. I'll admit I found myself more interested in that story line and the stuff taking place in Cuba rather than when the action was on the ship. I thought the main character, Everett Townsend was well-developed and I enjoyed his interactions with Emma.
One of the reasons I enjoy historical fiction is it can introduce you to a part of history you previously knew very little about and make you want to find out more when the story is over. I definitely recommend if you like Civil War historical fiction because it does bring something different to the genre.
I won a free copy of this book in a giveaway by Shelf Awareness. I was under no obligation to post a review and all views expressed are my honest opinion.
December 4, 2018
I received this from Get Red PR Publishing for honest Review.
An extremely well researched and compelling novel combining a story about sailors working aboard ships still under sail and a little known stage of the American Civil War. In 1863 Everett Townsend a young man recently dismissed from the U.S. Naval Academy for cause and subsequently in disgrace is captain of a ship owned by his father and sailing with the mission of selling that vessel in Havana. Cuba has become a center for Southern blockade runners to pick up cargoes crucial for the Confederate war effort, run the blockade to Southern ports while evading the Northern navy, and returning bringing a cargo of cotton destined for European markets. It is a very dangerous but very lucrative venture when successful and Havana is therefore a good market to sell ships in.
On the way into Havana harbor Everett rescues a man escaping unknown danger and swimming towards the ship while pursued by sharks. This good Samaritan action results in jail for Everett with his release effected by a profiteering Spanish merchant who forces him into becoming captain of the merchant's blockade runner in order to pay the debt owed for obtaining his release from prison. Robin Lloyd's descriptions of the Cuban world of that period: huge plantations and very wealthy people,extremely poor people and slaves brought from both Africa and Jamaica to work the plantations are riveting and show the reader a world not normally depicted. For the blockade runners there are the dangers of both conditions of the ocean these ships sail on and the equally dangerous possible meetings with Northern warships hunting the blockade runners.
The writing flows rapidly with the reader drawn into the reward of discovering a world that is only 90 miles off the coast of the U.S. and at the time of the story a base for Union warships hunting blockade runners. Two factors enrich the novel. One is the solving of a mystery that has haunted Everett since childhood with the answer found on Cuba, and the other meeting a girl of great interest for him. Both of these situations help enrich the attraction of Mr. Lloyd's novel keeping the reader glued to the pages.
The ending is well done and logically based on the story told, but fortunately leaving a good deal of factors that could go into another book about Everett Townsend and the world he finds himself in. I hope that this will be the case and I will be looking for those novels when published.
I highly recommend for any who love reading historic books. It just perfect!
An extremely well researched and compelling novel combining a story about sailors working aboard ships still under sail and a little known stage of the American Civil War. In 1863 Everett Townsend a young man recently dismissed from the U.S. Naval Academy for cause and subsequently in disgrace is captain of a ship owned by his father and sailing with the mission of selling that vessel in Havana. Cuba has become a center for Southern blockade runners to pick up cargoes crucial for the Confederate war effort, run the blockade to Southern ports while evading the Northern navy, and returning bringing a cargo of cotton destined for European markets. It is a very dangerous but very lucrative venture when successful and Havana is therefore a good market to sell ships in.
On the way into Havana harbor Everett rescues a man escaping unknown danger and swimming towards the ship while pursued by sharks. This good Samaritan action results in jail for Everett with his release effected by a profiteering Spanish merchant who forces him into becoming captain of the merchant's blockade runner in order to pay the debt owed for obtaining his release from prison. Robin Lloyd's descriptions of the Cuban world of that period: huge plantations and very wealthy people,extremely poor people and slaves brought from both Africa and Jamaica to work the plantations are riveting and show the reader a world not normally depicted. For the blockade runners there are the dangers of both conditions of the ocean these ships sail on and the equally dangerous possible meetings with Northern warships hunting the blockade runners.
The writing flows rapidly with the reader drawn into the reward of discovering a world that is only 90 miles off the coast of the U.S. and at the time of the story a base for Union warships hunting blockade runners. Two factors enrich the novel. One is the solving of a mystery that has haunted Everett since childhood with the answer found on Cuba, and the other meeting a girl of great interest for him. Both of these situations help enrich the attraction of Mr. Lloyd's novel keeping the reader glued to the pages.
The ending is well done and logically based on the story told, but fortunately leaving a good deal of factors that could go into another book about Everett Townsend and the world he finds himself in. I hope that this will be the case and I will be looking for those novels when published.
I highly recommend for any who love reading historic books. It just perfect!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2018
My thanks to the author/publisher and Shelf Awareness after winning this book in a Shelf Awareness drawing.
Harbor of Spies, so aptly titled, is filled with history, intrigue, mystery, murder, espionage, romance, Havana, sugar can plantations and slavery. Lloyd has a flair for descriptive writing without being overly verbose; very enjoyable. He gave imagery of what harbor and sea life was like in Havana during this time period. The story was set in the time of the American Civil War and this is where I personally learned about this part of the Civil War not taught in schools.
I had no idea that Cuba was so pro slavery; slaves were used on sugar can plantations just as they were used on American plantations with harsh treatment and horrid conditions. Evidently the politics at this time was intriguing. SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO it seems that the British were helping to finance the Confederates in the War by sending arms and supplies to the Spanish and Cuban merchants who were then smuggling the supplies to the Confederate army! Reading about this was fascinating and having it well written (a good story wrapped around history) added to the enjoyment.
Our main character appears. Faced with prison or even death American Naval Captain Townsend (a Northerner in Havana) finds himself in a predicament - stay in prison and probably be executed or agree to steer ships through the Union blockades to smuggle armaments and supplies to the Confederates and then bring back cotton to Cuba. Thus begins the story. Captain Townsend finds himself with many unsavory characters which adds a different flavor to this novel. Love and rivalry tops off the story but in no means is that ALL of the story! There were a few lulls in the story but none that were hard on me as a reader. The story was well laid out in a southern drawl sort of way.
This book certainly gave me a different perspective on the war between the states and this water view was something I actually knew little about.
Wrapped around the secretive history of Havana I found mystery and suspense. Loved the ending!
There is only one thing I did not enjoy about the book and this is a publishing issue - the print in the book was way too small for my liking! It wore my eyes out at times.
Harbor of Spies, so aptly titled, is filled with history, intrigue, mystery, murder, espionage, romance, Havana, sugar can plantations and slavery. Lloyd has a flair for descriptive writing without being overly verbose; very enjoyable. He gave imagery of what harbor and sea life was like in Havana during this time period. The story was set in the time of the American Civil War and this is where I personally learned about this part of the Civil War not taught in schools.
I had no idea that Cuba was so pro slavery; slaves were used on sugar can plantations just as they were used on American plantations with harsh treatment and horrid conditions. Evidently the politics at this time was intriguing. SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO it seems that the British were helping to finance the Confederates in the War by sending arms and supplies to the Spanish and Cuban merchants who were then smuggling the supplies to the Confederate army! Reading about this was fascinating and having it well written (a good story wrapped around history) added to the enjoyment.
Our main character appears. Faced with prison or even death American Naval Captain Townsend (a Northerner in Havana) finds himself in a predicament - stay in prison and probably be executed or agree to steer ships through the Union blockades to smuggle armaments and supplies to the Confederates and then bring back cotton to Cuba. Thus begins the story. Captain Townsend finds himself with many unsavory characters which adds a different flavor to this novel. Love and rivalry tops off the story but in no means is that ALL of the story! There were a few lulls in the story but none that were hard on me as a reader. The story was well laid out in a southern drawl sort of way.
This book certainly gave me a different perspective on the war between the states and this water view was something I actually knew little about.
Wrapped around the secretive history of Havana I found mystery and suspense. Loved the ending!
There is only one thing I did not enjoy about the book and this is a publishing issue - the print in the book was way too small for my liking! It wore my eyes out at times.
December 4, 2018
The book Harbor of Spies takes place in a six month time period in 1863 in Havana Cuba.
This book was a real eye opener for me.
Little did I know that foreign countries were interested in the outcome of the Civil War. Nor did I know that countries such as England and Spain attempted to interfere. Cuba's involvement does make sense as they were, at the time, a slave-based economy. Of course the sugar cane plantation owners wanted the South to win.
The book opens with Everett Townsend sailing into Havana Harbor as interim captain. The original Captain Evans had been killed during the voyage when the schooner's foresail had swung out smashing the Captain in the head and sweeping him overboard. Townsend feels guilty of his inability to save the man. But he does not think of this for long. As he passes El Morro Castle, Havana's prison, he and his first mate hear a man calling out for help as he struggles against a shark in the water. They save him and the story proceeds from there.
The main threads of the story are the mysterious death of English diplomat George Backhouse, the involvement of Michael Abbot (the man rescued) to solve the murder and Townsend's involvement with Don Pedro Alvarado Cardona as a blockade runner.
This story is a complex one with many characters and twists and turns. The story is compelling and full of historical facts. Lloyd also has researched (or just knows!!) many technical terms for sailing vessels of the era.
Highly educational and entertaining.
4 stars
This book was a real eye opener for me.
Little did I know that foreign countries were interested in the outcome of the Civil War. Nor did I know that countries such as England and Spain attempted to interfere. Cuba's involvement does make sense as they were, at the time, a slave-based economy. Of course the sugar cane plantation owners wanted the South to win.
The book opens with Everett Townsend sailing into Havana Harbor as interim captain. The original Captain Evans had been killed during the voyage when the schooner's foresail had swung out smashing the Captain in the head and sweeping him overboard. Townsend feels guilty of his inability to save the man. But he does not think of this for long. As he passes El Morro Castle, Havana's prison, he and his first mate hear a man calling out for help as he struggles against a shark in the water. They save him and the story proceeds from there.
The main threads of the story are the mysterious death of English diplomat George Backhouse, the involvement of Michael Abbot (the man rescued) to solve the murder and Townsend's involvement with Don Pedro Alvarado Cardona as a blockade runner.
This story is a complex one with many characters and twists and turns. The story is compelling and full of historical facts. Lloyd also has researched (or just knows!!) many technical terms for sailing vessels of the era.
Highly educational and entertaining.
4 stars
May 26, 2018
This novel offers another, little know story of the role Cuba paid during the Civil War. Cuba was still a Spanish Colony, a slave colony, and they offered trade with the Confederates via blockade runners who moved uniforms and arms in return for cotton. England, Spain and Mexico were all involved in this scheme. The fictional novel is set in this background, and it is obvious that the author has done extensive research.
The author gives us a lush tropical setting where the government is corrupt and the wealthy plantation owners control pretty much everything. The slaves are restless, the cruelty is extreme, and yet life for the well-off is rich and sumptuous. Everett Townsend is a very, very young ship captain who sails into port and almost immediately becomes involved in all kinds of intrigue and danger. There are dangers everywhere, secret plots and violence, and of course a love story. My quibble with the book is that the authors focuses too much on his research and not enough on his characters and their development. I felt there was too much focus on the mechanics of sailing - however fans of this activity will love the detailed accounts of preparing and sailing ships under fire etc.
I wish the character had been fleshed out more fully, the story less predictable.
This book was free copy form BookBrowse, given in return for joining a discussion on their wonderful website.
The author gives us a lush tropical setting where the government is corrupt and the wealthy plantation owners control pretty much everything. The slaves are restless, the cruelty is extreme, and yet life for the well-off is rich and sumptuous. Everett Townsend is a very, very young ship captain who sails into port and almost immediately becomes involved in all kinds of intrigue and danger. There are dangers everywhere, secret plots and violence, and of course a love story. My quibble with the book is that the authors focuses too much on his research and not enough on his characters and their development. I felt there was too much focus on the mechanics of sailing - however fans of this activity will love the detailed accounts of preparing and sailing ships under fire etc.
I wish the character had been fleshed out more fully, the story less predictable.
This book was free copy form BookBrowse, given in return for joining a discussion on their wonderful website.
November 18, 2018
***Goodreads Giveaway Win***
This book had all the trappings of something I should hate; historical fiction, nautical fiction, espionage, dull cover. However, I enjoyed it. It turned out to be more of an adventure novel in the style of Bartle Bull; a style that in my old age, has become a particular favorite. The protagonist was someone I could get behind. I do wish he had a bit more depth. There was some talk of his past but I felt his story could have been more flushed out. Same with the love interest. Not only could she have been developed further but their love story felt cut off. This book needs a sequel. Overall, I enjoyed the Cuban setting and history woven in. The author clearly knows his Cuban and nautical history but mercifully didn't drown me in it. Good book. I would recommend it.
This book had all the trappings of something I should hate; historical fiction, nautical fiction, espionage, dull cover. However, I enjoyed it. It turned out to be more of an adventure novel in the style of Bartle Bull; a style that in my old age, has become a particular favorite. The protagonist was someone I could get behind. I do wish he had a bit more depth. There was some talk of his past but I felt his story could have been more flushed out. Same with the love interest. Not only could she have been developed further but their love story felt cut off. This book needs a sequel. Overall, I enjoyed the Cuban setting and history woven in. The author clearly knows his Cuban and nautical history but mercifully didn't drown me in it. Good book. I would recommend it.
March 27, 2018
Harbor of Spies is an intense and well written historical fiction novel set during the Civil War, (1863) and taking place from Havana to the USA to other parts of the gulf coast from Florida to Texas and many other places.
There is a lot of action and intrigue in this book and it was hard to put down once I started reading this book. A lot of things happened in Havana and there was plenty of wealth due to the sugar crops. A lot of this book takes place on schooners which were responsible for transporting arms and ammunition in the gulf.
The one thing I like about reading historical fiction, is all the issues and facts that are going on during the time the book is written about. This book was no exception and is rich in history.
I gave this book 5 stars and will be reading more by this author, as I really like the way this author writes.
There is a lot of action and intrigue in this book and it was hard to put down once I started reading this book. A lot of things happened in Havana and there was plenty of wealth due to the sugar crops. A lot of this book takes place on schooners which were responsible for transporting arms and ammunition in the gulf.
The one thing I like about reading historical fiction, is all the issues and facts that are going on during the time the book is written about. This book was no exception and is rich in history.
I gave this book 5 stars and will be reading more by this author, as I really like the way this author writes.
April 2, 2018
I received this book from Goodreads. Transported to Cuba during the American Civil War, I learned how critical Havana was in blockade running. The brutality of Cuban slavery was another revelation. Recommended!
March 3, 2018
A Wonderful read
Mr Lloyd has written a book that not only grips the reader from the first pages but holds on through the twists and turns it takes. His words bring to life the time and place of Cuba in the mid19th century in a way that makes one feel as if a part of the story. It was educative while entertaining and I find myself hoping that there will be a sequel. This being his second well written book, I can only hope he is on a roll.
Mr Lloyd has written a book that not only grips the reader from the first pages but holds on through the twists and turns it takes. His words bring to life the time and place of Cuba in the mid19th century in a way that makes one feel as if a part of the story. It was educative while entertaining and I find myself hoping that there will be a sequel. This being his second well written book, I can only hope he is on a roll.
April 8, 2018
I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway. I give it a solid 4. The author did a great job describing Cuba and the Civil War period, politics, and culture. The history ranks a 5. I wasn’t a huge fan of the author’s description and dialogue at times. He was a bit wordy and he tended to repeat ideas and previous events a bit too much. I felt that most of his sentences started with “he” or the mans name. So that part got a 3. Plot wise it was good, it felt a bit too much occurred and it got hard to keep track of it all so I rank that a 4. Overall really good read!
November 21, 2021
At the end of January 1863, the Laura Ann arrives at Havana, but is unable to enter the bay because night has fallen. Nor can she return to open waters because a Confederate gunboat is out there hunting merchant ships flying the Stars and Stripes of the United States. Acting captain Everett Townsend is debating what to do when he hears shouts coming from the shark-infested water. He rescues an injured man named Michael Abbot, who has just escaped from El Morro Castle.
Cuba is an enticing mystery to Everett because it is the homeland of his mother, but once she left the island, she refused to speak of it or her family. Helping the injured fugitive comes naturally to him since his family aids runaway slaves passing through Maryland. But Cuba is a far cry from the United States, and being a Good Samaritan sets in motion a series of falling dominos with dire consequences for Everett.
Abbot has been investigating the murder of an English diplomat that was swept under the rug, but there are those with power and influence who don’t want the matter reopened. They become aware of Everett’s assistance and, soon, he finds himself imprisoned and unable to contact anyone. The Spanish officials believe him to be a spy, an executable offense. Don Pedro Alvarado Cardona offers him a lifeline. The cost, however, is almost as disgraceful and distasteful as when Everett was booted out of the US Naval Academy. If he wishes to live, he must become a Confederate blockade runner. Havana is nominally a neutral seaport; in reality, it is a depot where Confederate ships can load British armament to smuggle into the South or unload cotton and other goods that would otherwise rot in blockaded Southern ports.
Everett reluctantly accepts Don Pedro’s offer, but vows to escape at the first opportunity. That chance doesn’t come. Instead, he is offered a chance to visit the plantations where he comes face-to-face with the realities of slavery and people who knew his mother. A foreign diplomat offers Everett a way to change the current path his life is on, but it requires him to gain the trust of Don Pedro, a suspicious and mysterious man who has many secrets.
Harbor of Spies takes place over a span of six months – a time that may seem short for the reader, but is an eternity for the characters. Lloyd has crafted an intricate web of interconnected subplots and enigmas that subtly ensnare those who venture into the past that was Old Havana, where societal disparities were rampant and no one trusted anyone. A real diplomatic murder serves as the catalyst and the depth of Lloyd’s historical research is evident throughout. He provides vivid portrayals of slavery, human trafficking, manipulations, crime, blockade running, corruption, espionage, jealousy, and romance. This is a story where everyone wears a mask and nothing is as it seems.
Cuba is an enticing mystery to Everett because it is the homeland of his mother, but once she left the island, she refused to speak of it or her family. Helping the injured fugitive comes naturally to him since his family aids runaway slaves passing through Maryland. But Cuba is a far cry from the United States, and being a Good Samaritan sets in motion a series of falling dominos with dire consequences for Everett.
Abbot has been investigating the murder of an English diplomat that was swept under the rug, but there are those with power and influence who don’t want the matter reopened. They become aware of Everett’s assistance and, soon, he finds himself imprisoned and unable to contact anyone. The Spanish officials believe him to be a spy, an executable offense. Don Pedro Alvarado Cardona offers him a lifeline. The cost, however, is almost as disgraceful and distasteful as when Everett was booted out of the US Naval Academy. If he wishes to live, he must become a Confederate blockade runner. Havana is nominally a neutral seaport; in reality, it is a depot where Confederate ships can load British armament to smuggle into the South or unload cotton and other goods that would otherwise rot in blockaded Southern ports.
Everett reluctantly accepts Don Pedro’s offer, but vows to escape at the first opportunity. That chance doesn’t come. Instead, he is offered a chance to visit the plantations where he comes face-to-face with the realities of slavery and people who knew his mother. A foreign diplomat offers Everett a way to change the current path his life is on, but it requires him to gain the trust of Don Pedro, a suspicious and mysterious man who has many secrets.
Harbor of Spies takes place over a span of six months – a time that may seem short for the reader, but is an eternity for the characters. Lloyd has crafted an intricate web of interconnected subplots and enigmas that subtly ensnare those who venture into the past that was Old Havana, where societal disparities were rampant and no one trusted anyone. A real diplomatic murder serves as the catalyst and the depth of Lloyd’s historical research is evident throughout. He provides vivid portrayals of slavery, human trafficking, manipulations, crime, blockade running, corruption, espionage, jealousy, and romance. This is a story where everyone wears a mask and nothing is as it seems.
August 3, 2020
Ever wonder what Cuba was like in 1863. And who hasn’t! If so, this book will be very enlightening. The American civil was is on and the Union is trying to blockade all of the southern ports. Cuba is a Spanish colony and the Spanish sympathies are more with the Confederacy than with the Union. Although it is a novel, this book is a look into the poor sad history of Cuba. Our main character, Everett Townsend is a young man from Harve de Grace Maryland whose mother is from Cuba. Everett is in the Naval Academy when another cadet goads him into a fight, calling his mother a Cuban whore. As a result Everett gets kicked out of the Academy. He knows his father, who is a strong supporter of the Union is opposed to slavery, will be disappointed so rather than tell him, Everett signs on to a ship and because of his naval training he signs on as 2nd mate. When the captain of the ship gets knocked overboard and the crew is unable to find him, Everett becomes the captain. Although his mother refused to say anything about her time in Cuba, the only thing she ever said about her mother was that she was a witch, Everett is curious about her background. As it turns out the ship is headed to Havana which is the port where many of the Blockade running ships anchor to unload cotton from the south and load artillery that destined for the south. Havana is a dark place under Spanish rule. While anchored off shore they rescue someone in the water who has just escaped from the Spanish prison. Everett takes this man to his rooming house where he meets the owners, the Carpenters and it turns out that the daughter, Emma, is a beautiful young woman. In Spanish Cuba you don’t have a right to a trial by your peers – actually to don’t have a right to a trial at all. This book will not make you love the Spanish occupiers but it is a captivating story and hard to put down once you get started on it. I would rate this book very high – say a five on a five star system.
September 11, 2019
Considering this book's scope and target audience, I found it considerably well-researched. It's supposedly a YA pirate novel set off the coast of Cuba in the 19th century. Also, I liked how much Spanish it left untranslated but you could translate for yourself from context.
Looking off the back, "the author was a foreign correspondent for NBC News for many years, where he reported from Latin America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and Africa." No wonder it came across like that.
I also liked the quote from Anthony Trollope regarding Cuba tucked into the middle. So it IS quite well and good, with the 19th-century cultural high-class society and all.
Wow, did you know about how the Trollope Ploy ended the Cuban Missile Crisis?
I VAGUELY REMEMBER my International Relations professor talking about that, and watching a Cuban movie, in Russian, with subtitles...
Editing this review after three days, it seems to me that Mr Lloyd tried to include everybody in his target audience, not just the tweens I initially assumed this book was written down for. He did that by adding the things I noted in this review, besides undoubtedly, well, it's a de facto spy book. Any self-respecting kid will go for that.
Looking off the back, "the author was a foreign correspondent for NBC News for many years, where he reported from Latin America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and Africa." No wonder it came across like that.
I also liked the quote from Anthony Trollope regarding Cuba tucked into the middle. So it IS quite well and good, with the 19th-century cultural high-class society and all.
Wow, did you know about how the Trollope Ploy ended the Cuban Missile Crisis?
I VAGUELY REMEMBER my International Relations professor talking about that, and watching a Cuban movie, in Russian, with subtitles...
Editing this review after three days, it seems to me that Mr Lloyd tried to include everybody in his target audience, not just the tweens I initially assumed this book was written down for. He did that by adding the things I noted in this review, besides undoubtedly, well, it's a de facto spy book. Any self-respecting kid will go for that.
August 2, 2021
Robin Lloyd is a master story-teller, and his historical novel HARBOR OF SPIES is a shining example of his skill. Setting the story in Spanish colonial Havana during the American Civil War shows he knows his history, as well as his scenery. Along with the protagonist, ship captain Everette Townsend, the reader will be drawn further and further into Havana’s sweltering nest of diplomatic maneuvering, blockade-runners’ middle men, purveyors of sordid vices, deadly double-crossing espionage, simmering revolution, and the cold-eyed men and women who lurk in the shadows everywhere.
But our man not only faces the intrigues and peril in the ancient city, he journeys out into the slave culture of the inland plantations, where beauty and evil abound. Amidst Cuba’s turmoil and despair, and a budding spark of love, Townsend is forced to face stark ethical decisions about exactly who and what he is at a time and place in history where morals were assumed, but not always apparent.
The book is brilliantly enhanced by beautiful maps, and contemporary imagery and quotes. Sea story, murder mystery, love story, spy story—HARBOR OF SPIES is all of this and more. After reading this book, the reader will want more tales from Robin Lloyd. Highly recommended.
-- by Robert N. Macomber, multi-award winning author of the Honor Series of historical novels
But our man not only faces the intrigues and peril in the ancient city, he journeys out into the slave culture of the inland plantations, where beauty and evil abound. Amidst Cuba’s turmoil and despair, and a budding spark of love, Townsend is forced to face stark ethical decisions about exactly who and what he is at a time and place in history where morals were assumed, but not always apparent.
The book is brilliantly enhanced by beautiful maps, and contemporary imagery and quotes. Sea story, murder mystery, love story, spy story—HARBOR OF SPIES is all of this and more. After reading this book, the reader will want more tales from Robin Lloyd. Highly recommended.
-- by Robert N. Macomber, multi-award winning author of the Honor Series of historical novels
June 14, 2018
Such a good book, I love that historical facts have been woven into the story. I admit that I was unaware of the major role that Cuba played in the Civil War, but now want to find out more.
This story tells the tale of Everett Townsend, a young man from Maryland, who has his hopes dashed when he is kicked out of the Naval Academy. From there he signs on as first mate of a schooner headed to Cuba to deliver a load of lumber. When the ship's Captain is knocked overboard during a storm, Townsend assumes the role. It seems that Townsend's luck won't get better any time soon. While anchored off shore, he rescues a man named Michael Abbott who has escaped from El Morro and more troubles begin. Townsend subsequently is arrested and is imprisoned at El Morro for weeks until a mysterious benefactor obtains his release. Townsend is then forced to Captain the schooner as a blockade runner which goes against all of his beliefs. In between his trips to the South to deliver guns and supplies and pick up cotton, Townsend is deeply involved in the mystery of Michael Abbot. He travels around colonial Havanna, hoping to elude the men whose job it is to keep tabs on him, to find answers. Some of the answers he finds are far from what he expected.
This story tells the tale of Everett Townsend, a young man from Maryland, who has his hopes dashed when he is kicked out of the Naval Academy. From there he signs on as first mate of a schooner headed to Cuba to deliver a load of lumber. When the ship's Captain is knocked overboard during a storm, Townsend assumes the role. It seems that Townsend's luck won't get better any time soon. While anchored off shore, he rescues a man named Michael Abbott who has escaped from El Morro and more troubles begin. Townsend subsequently is arrested and is imprisoned at El Morro for weeks until a mysterious benefactor obtains his release. Townsend is then forced to Captain the schooner as a blockade runner which goes against all of his beliefs. In between his trips to the South to deliver guns and supplies and pick up cotton, Townsend is deeply involved in the mystery of Michael Abbot. He travels around colonial Havanna, hoping to elude the men whose job it is to keep tabs on him, to find answers. Some of the answers he finds are far from what he expected.
March 23, 2018
Harbor of Spies is an historical thriller set in Havana at the height of the American Civil War, when the Spanish colonial city was alive with intrigue and espionage. Slave trading, spies around every corner, blockade running and a black cat that brings good luck are just parts of an incredible story that brings to life a city that was vital to the Confederacy’s survival.
Harbor of Spies is a richly drawn portrait of Spanish colonial Havana in an era when the city was flush with sugar wealth and filled with international intrigue as the major powers battled over the future of slavery. Incorporating real events into this engaging thriller – and the real, unsolved murder of George Backhouse – author Robin Lloyd illuminates Cuba’s singular role in the Civil War. Lloyd’s unparalleled knowledge of maritime history brings to life a forgotten epoch of American history when scores of blockade running ships – both sail and steam – tried and often succeeded in running the gauntlet of the Union blockade from Havana into the Gulf of Mexico.
Harbor of Spies is a richly drawn portrait of Spanish colonial Havana in an era when the city was flush with sugar wealth and filled with international intrigue as the major powers battled over the future of slavery. Incorporating real events into this engaging thriller – and the real, unsolved murder of George Backhouse – author Robin Lloyd illuminates Cuba’s singular role in the Civil War. Lloyd’s unparalleled knowledge of maritime history brings to life a forgotten epoch of American history when scores of blockade running ships – both sail and steam – tried and often succeeded in running the gauntlet of the Union blockade from Havana into the Gulf of Mexico.
December 14, 2018
I was caught by the description of this book - espionage in Cuba during the American Civil War, ooh, sounds interesting! I got the book from the library; it's a nice hard-bound book with a well-done cover and looks very professional. But then I started reading. A 19-year old inexperienced Yankee seaman ends up as captain due to his superior's sudden death, then on arrival in Cuba rescues a man from the ocean who ends up being a British spy. For no apparent reason the young captain first hides him aboard while Spaniards search the ship, then risks everything to help this escaped spy go back to his boarding house to fetch his possessions. I would have gone with the flow and suspended my disbelief if the writing had been good, but it was very amateurish, with no literary flow. The dialogue was especially stilted.
So... I'm moving on to the next book in my pile without going any farther with this one. 2 stars to counterbalance the handful of high reviews from the authors friends(?).
So... I'm moving on to the next book in my pile without going any farther with this one. 2 stars to counterbalance the handful of high reviews from the authors friends(?).
December 12, 2018
What a cool book! I think what was most exciting about this book is seeing that Robin Lloyd, a former foreign NBC correspondent, was the author. He really added something special to this book with his prior knowledge and experience of the area. His writing really made me feel like I was right there in Havana, a place I honestly don't have personal knowledge of myself. Such a vibrant setting for this book! I was completely intrigued by the murder investigation more than I was about the civil war references (that's just my personal preference). I highly recommend this book for those who love historical fiction, and it's a wonderful book for thriller lovers to step-out of their comfort zone.
Thank you Get Red PR and Lyons Press for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
4/5 Stars
From my blog and instagram account - @livereadandprosper
Thank you Get Red PR and Lyons Press for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
4/5 Stars
From my blog and instagram account - @livereadandprosper
July 22, 2019
A unique perspective on a Civil War-era seagoing novel, this book is largely set in Cuba. It's a tale about a disgraced U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen who takes up a merchant career that puts him in charge - reluctantly - of a Confederate blockade runner. Woven within the story is a thread based on an actual case of a British diplomat who vanished while trying to disrupt the Spanish slave trade with the South.
The author, a former NBC journalist who covered Latin America, knows his territory and his portrayal of 19th century Cuba seems authentically menacing. The sea-based elements, while not extensive, appear authentically rendered as well.
The author, a former NBC journalist who covered Latin America, knows his territory and his portrayal of 19th century Cuba seems authentically menacing. The sea-based elements, while not extensive, appear authentically rendered as well.
August 13, 2018
A sailing tale of the Civil War Era is a travelogue of Cuba in the 19th century, fraught with contradictions and danger, treacherous for abolitionists and defenders of the Union. Lloyd skillfully blends fact and fiction and sails will delight in his details. With an ambitious aim to illuminate the European support for the Confederacy and a British tacit blind eye, the author raises the stakes. Principles and self preservation are at war within the young hero as he pursues his family history and love interest. Educational and Entertaining.
April 19, 2018
This historical fiction book follows a young man as he attempts to uncover his heritage in Cuba during the American Civil War. A fascinating account of how Cuba was used to aid the confederate army and the effects that spy’s and double agents no doubt played. A little romance and very little objectionable language would make this a good selection for upper middle school to adult. Book clubs that enjoy historical fiction might want to add this to your list as well!
October 11, 2018
Cuba, the American Civil War, Blockade Running, Slavery and a bit of Romance
Very pleased with the book. I read it with a nautical map so I could follow along in parts. Never realized how much the Island played a part in the US Civil War. I very much enjoyed all the Cuban references in the book. So similar to my family’s homeland of Puerto Rico. Not a literary masterpiece but an engaging book.
Very pleased with the book. I read it with a nautical map so I could follow along in parts. Never realized how much the Island played a part in the US Civil War. I very much enjoyed all the Cuban references in the book. So similar to my family’s homeland of Puerto Rico. Not a literary masterpiece but an engaging book.
May 11, 2018
Really enjoyed this book. Had to remind myself that Townsend was a young man, his level of responsibility was great. The story line about the smuggling and the blockade running around Cuba was right on target, it is such a part of the American Civil War. Never knew who to trust, spies, counter-spies and just a touch of romance to make this a truly great read. Looking forward to the sequel?!
July 29, 2018
Excellent book. I like historical fiction that really paints the picture of the place and time. Often the author has a story and just plops it into a time period so it doesn't feel very authentic. Lloyd does a good job blending characters, setting, and history. I especially liked the descriptions of Havana. The conclusion to the story felt a bit rushed but certainly worth the time to read.
March 5, 2019
I received this book through a Goodreads Giveaway from the author Robin Lloyd and I thank you. Not the kind of book I would typically read but I was intrigued by the setting and the time period and of course I always love a good historical fiction. The story was good, was able to keep my interest and built up anticipation. It also gave one an idea of what life was like in Havana during the Civil War. Interesting history, well worth reading.
October 11, 2019
I really liked learning about Havana's role in supporting Confederate blockade runners during the American Civil War. There was certainly plenty of action and intrigue throughout the entire story. I liked reading about all the details of life on a ship. Having some knowledge of sailing terminology is definitely helpful with this book.
December 17, 2024
A plausible side story to the history of Cuba's part in the Civil War, as a hub for blockade runners. Part murder mystery, part swashbuckling story of life on the high seas. A fun and satisfying read.
May 17, 2018
A novel that describes a part of civil war history involving the Cuban blockade runners that were arming the Confederates in exchange for cotton. Great read!
June 6, 2018
I was excited by the description, but found the book to be just average. I wish the story was better developed, it felt like there was little detail about a lot of different subjects.
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