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The Red Flag
Captain Stephen Boswell sails under the red flag, a symbol of no mercy. It’s the only reason he has lived this long. The only reason the navy has not found him yet. But they are closing in. And if they catch him, they will execute him for piracy.
Ten-year-old Alice Bradford doesn’t know why she is alive. When Captain Boswell found her hiding on his ship, she expected him to kill her, and it seemed his own crew had expected likewise. But now she is his prisoner and she fears that she will be forever. Somehow, though, it seems that the captain might be more afraid of the navy than she is of him. Something from his past has him ill at ease, Alice realizes. Even if the navy cannot bring him to his knees, his own paranoia will.
Ten-year-old Alice Bradford doesn’t know why she is alive. When Captain Boswell found her hiding on his ship, she expected him to kill her, and it seemed his own crew had expected likewise. But now she is his prisoner and she fears that she will be forever. Somehow, though, it seems that the captain might be more afraid of the navy than she is of him. Something from his past has him ill at ease, Alice realizes. Even if the navy cannot bring him to his knees, his own paranoia will.
265 pages, Paperback
Published August 27, 2018
53 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
Julia Maiola
4 books12 followersJulia Maiola is a Digital Marketing Manager from Rochester, New York. She received her Bachelor’s in English from SUNY Brockport and published her first novel, The Red Flag, in 2018. With a focus on historical fiction, she writes novels and novellas that explore morally gray characters within compelling settings. When Julia is not writing, she is gaming, reading, and crafting.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 30, 2018
I'm not really into pirates or violence, so I wasn't sure about reading this book. To my amazement,
it was hard to put down. I became drawn to the characters, especially Captain Boswell and Alice. Even though Captain Boswell is a cold-hearted pirate, I found myself having empathy for him, almost rooting for him in the end. I also was very concerned for Alice and her safety. I couldn't wait for the outcome for both of them. This is a very exciting book and even if you're not into pirates like myself, you will enjoy reading it.
it was hard to put down. I became drawn to the characters, especially Captain Boswell and Alice. Even though Captain Boswell is a cold-hearted pirate, I found myself having empathy for him, almost rooting for him in the end. I also was very concerned for Alice and her safety. I couldn't wait for the outcome for both of them. This is a very exciting book and even if you're not into pirates like myself, you will enjoy reading it.
March 1, 2019
The Red Flag, by Julia Maiola, takes the life of one Captain Stephen Boswell and spins a tale about how he ended up in the life he despised. His father was a pirate, and he blamed him for his troubles. The choices he made along the way though were his own, keeping young Alice alive was one of the best decisions he ever made. Little did he know the influence she would make on his life. As a pirate he was fierce, as a friend he was faithful, but as a savior he was sailing on uncharted grounds. This brave, ten-year-old was not only the sole piece out of order in his life, but she was also the last hope for his humanity.
The Red Flag realistically tells the good and the bad of a pirate’s life, which encapsulates the research put into this novel. Julia Maiola holds nothing back as she enlightens the readers, or listeners, about piracy; the bond between the men, the dangers of trusting acquaintances, and the policy of no witnesses left behind. The author alternates current events with Alice reading Captain Boswell’s journal. The outcome of Captain Boswell and Alice will surprise the reader as the author twist the plot at the end. This is a treasure of a read with rich characters, adventures on the high seas, and dedication to a pirate’s code. This is a must read for everyone who loves historical, high seas adventures.
Other than the narration and individual characters speaking Thomas Cardwell does not have added sound effects. He brings each character to life effectively and adds spirit to the novel just words could not. Though most of the voices are male, he is efficient in voicing Alice and Jane without breaking the listeners train of thought. He is one of the best narrators I have heard and would enjoy more books read by him.
Review written by Peggy Jo Wipf for Readers' Favorite
The Red Flag realistically tells the good and the bad of a pirate’s life, which encapsulates the research put into this novel. Julia Maiola holds nothing back as she enlightens the readers, or listeners, about piracy; the bond between the men, the dangers of trusting acquaintances, and the policy of no witnesses left behind. The author alternates current events with Alice reading Captain Boswell’s journal. The outcome of Captain Boswell and Alice will surprise the reader as the author twist the plot at the end. This is a treasure of a read with rich characters, adventures on the high seas, and dedication to a pirate’s code. This is a must read for everyone who loves historical, high seas adventures.
Other than the narration and individual characters speaking Thomas Cardwell does not have added sound effects. He brings each character to life effectively and adds spirit to the novel just words could not. Though most of the voices are male, he is efficient in voicing Alice and Jane without breaking the listeners train of thought. He is one of the best narrators I have heard and would enjoy more books read by him.
Review written by Peggy Jo Wipf for Readers' Favorite
September 4, 2018
I am fortunate enough to know the author of this book and was able to read a draft during the editing stages. Although it took me a few chapters to get into the book, Julia skillfully uses flashback to unfold Stephen Boswell’s backstory and the reason for his present paranoia. Her characters are multi-dimensional, with even the most ruthless pirates being able to show affection, insecurity, and regret. The heroine, 10-year-old Alice, shows remarkable grit and strength for a character of her age. (And yes, I know she is fictional.)
The greatest thing about this book, in my humble opinion, is it’s historical accuracy. Julia did tons of research on pirates, weapons, ships, sailing, jargon, and the British navy to ensure that her book illustrates pirates the way they actually were, not as Hollywood likes to portray them. However, with historical accuracy comes the unpleasant truth of violence and murder. This book it not for those who squirm at blood and torture. I, myself am not fond of violence, and found some parts of the book difficult to get through. Be aware that Captain Boswell IS a merciless pirate.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who likes characters with deep, complex psyches, fast-paced stories and plots, and/or historical fiction novels (especially in the realm of pirates). Definitely a book to add to your personal library.
P.S., there’s a crazy plot twist towards the end that will blow your mind.
The greatest thing about this book, in my humble opinion, is it’s historical accuracy. Julia did tons of research on pirates, weapons, ships, sailing, jargon, and the British navy to ensure that her book illustrates pirates the way they actually were, not as Hollywood likes to portray them. However, with historical accuracy comes the unpleasant truth of violence and murder. This book it not for those who squirm at blood and torture. I, myself am not fond of violence, and found some parts of the book difficult to get through. Be aware that Captain Boswell IS a merciless pirate.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who likes characters with deep, complex psyches, fast-paced stories and plots, and/or historical fiction novels (especially in the realm of pirates). Definitely a book to add to your personal library.
P.S., there’s a crazy plot twist towards the end that will blow your mind.
January 26, 2019
This is a book that demands to be taken on its own terms. Maiola fills the book with historically accurate details about colonial era pirates, yet the dialogue and expressions are contemporary. (I thought this was a good choice. Otherwise, it would sound like a faux Victorian romance.) The lead female, Anna, is ten years old, too young to be a romantic partner for any of the men in the story. If you're looking for a historical romance, or for a comic-adventure like "Pirates of the Caribbean," you will be disappointed. But, if you let Maiola lead you through her story, you will find yourself engrossed and thoroughly entertained.
The leading man is brutal and violent. In today's world, we would call him a psycho-killer. Yet, he has moments of vulnerability, and he generates love and loyalty from the other characters in the story. The Pirate, Captain Boswell, reminded me a little of Macbeth in the way he violently fights against his fate. He was too ruthless, however, for my tastes. He simply kills too many people to be truly admirable. I wondered if Anna's affection for him wasn't an example of Stockholm syndrome. The ending ties up the loose ends a little too neatly. Still, this is a strong, ambitious novel from a young writer. I look forward to her next story.
The leading man is brutal and violent. In today's world, we would call him a psycho-killer. Yet, he has moments of vulnerability, and he generates love and loyalty from the other characters in the story. The Pirate, Captain Boswell, reminded me a little of Macbeth in the way he violently fights against his fate. He was too ruthless, however, for my tastes. He simply kills too many people to be truly admirable. I wondered if Anna's affection for him wasn't an example of Stockholm syndrome. The ending ties up the loose ends a little too neatly. Still, this is a strong, ambitious novel from a young writer. I look forward to her next story.
September 14, 2018
Interesting, But Basic Premise Is Flawed
I enjoyed reading this book more than I thought I would, it kept my attention. The nautical details were the best part, life on the ship, the pursuit by the British Navy, and how the pirates evaded, were engaging.
However, I just couldn't buy the premise of the book, that the Captain killed out of fear. The reason for his extreme fear seemed a bit lacking, not enough to justify his extensive, cold blooded murdering. Similarly, his final speech to Jane lacked justification, amounting to "I murdered your husband and grandfather, but try not to think too badly of me."
Still, if you're looking for light reading among the many free offerings for Kindle, and you like historical fiction, give it a try.
I enjoyed reading this book more than I thought I would, it kept my attention. The nautical details were the best part, life on the ship, the pursuit by the British Navy, and how the pirates evaded, were engaging.
However, I just couldn't buy the premise of the book, that the Captain killed out of fear. The reason for his extreme fear seemed a bit lacking, not enough to justify his extensive, cold blooded murdering. Similarly, his final speech to Jane lacked justification, amounting to "I murdered your husband and grandfather, but try not to think too badly of me."
Still, if you're looking for light reading among the many free offerings for Kindle, and you like historical fiction, give it a try.
September 10, 2018
Kept my interest throughout
Good strong Enjoyable fiction my a talented new voice. The courage to take on emotions of of a fortyish year old man and a ten year old girl is commendable though possibly too much of a stretch. Still, good strong voice and idea. I would read more
Good strong Enjoyable fiction my a talented new voice. The courage to take on emotions of of a fortyish year old man and a ten year old girl is commendable though possibly too much of a stretch. Still, good strong voice and idea. I would read more
October 13, 2019
Good story!
I really liked this book; up until the end. The writing goes off at the end for some strange reason. However, the rest of the book is very good; well written and interesting.
I really liked this book; up until the end. The writing goes off at the end for some strange reason. However, the rest of the book is very good; well written and interesting.
October 18, 2019
Alice, captive or pirate ?
A adventure of the high seas, the royal navy, pirates, deadly storms and Alice. Alice was a captive, a crewmember and in some ways commander of the
Vengence Dragon ,a pirate ship
A adventure of the high seas, the royal navy, pirates, deadly storms and Alice. Alice was a captive, a crewmember and in some ways commander of the
Vengence Dragon ,a pirate ship
January 22, 2020
Impressive debut
Fine effort on a first novel. The bad guys feel like good guys and vice versa. A story of pirates, prisoners, revenge, and redemption. Life on the run fueled by death. A fun read. I'd do more from this author
Fine effort on a first novel. The bad guys feel like good guys and vice versa. A story of pirates, prisoners, revenge, and redemption. Life on the run fueled by death. A fun read. I'd do more from this author
March 1, 2020
An almost interesting story
This is on the cusp of a good story. It just never quite gels together so you understan or care about the characters. The end wants to be touching but it just doesn't quite make it.
This is on the cusp of a good story. It just never quite gels together so you understan or care about the characters. The end wants to be touching but it just doesn't quite make it.
September 9, 2018
Excellent read. Young lady will have a great future.
September 11, 2018
Good read
If you like pirates and great characters , you will annoy
this book, let's you see how they would have lived and survived
If you like pirates and great characters , you will annoy
this book, let's you see how they would have lived and survived
October 28, 2018
Ok, nothing great.
Finished it, do not know why. Have read better, and worse - not really worth your time, move on to something better.
Finished it, do not know why. Have read better, and worse - not really worth your time, move on to something better.
September 23, 2019
Ok
This book is ok but not really special. You will find a ten year old girl that thinks, and talks like a well educated adult, kind of detracts from the story line.
This book is ok but not really special. You will find a ten year old girl that thinks, and talks like a well educated adult, kind of detracts from the story line.
September 21, 2021
Luv it
Well written thought out. Heart wrenching to be sure. Come to the rollercoaster. The ride will be worth every second.
Well written thought out. Heart wrenching to be sure. Come to the rollercoaster. The ride will be worth every second.
December 12, 2021
Those red flags..........
September 8, 2018
I really love this book! It constantly keeps you wondering what will happen next, and the characters are realistically complex and easily loved, even those who are on competing sides. This is an excellent debut from an incredibly talented author, it’s well written, well informed, and an overall excellent read!
February 4, 2022
I have been looking for a book like this forever. The story gets you hooked and is very easy to visualize. Great for fans of pirates.
May 30, 2024
Decades ago I read a century old novel about a young boy hiding on a ship that turned out to be crewed by pirates: Jack Holborn. In that story you saw the same fascination with a charismatic but also enigmatic captain. Also here you cannot really be certain if he is good or bad. It had me days wondering. I have to say the girl sounded a bit too mature for her age. And I wondered why they not just disappeared to the other side of the world and build an honest living as a trader or even leave the sea behind and start afresh in the colonies
January 4, 2024
Acceptance indeed
It's referred to by some as Stockholm Syndrome. But from a ten year old girl it is an interesting and conflict filled development. The reverse is that even the most evil men have some good somewhere?
It's referred to by some as Stockholm Syndrome. But from a ten year old girl it is an interesting and conflict filled development. The reverse is that even the most evil men have some good somewhere?
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews