So this series is from one of my favorite Indie Authors: Chris A. Jackson! I’ve just started reading more works from non-traditional publishing agencies, and I’ve gotta say… it’s actually quite refreshing!
I started reading this series after I met Chris A. Jackson at Multiverse Con 2019. He has such a pleasant personality, a wealth of knowledge, and years of experience in the writing industry! When perusing his books on display, I was immediately drawn to The Pirate’s Scourge which is the first book in (as of right now) a trilogy – I hear there’s more to come! 😉
Now, if you’re one of those sensitive pansy types, then this is not the book for you! We’re talking about pirates here, so expect bloody gore, strong drink, and sexual escapades aplenty! If you’re still here and looking for a swashbuckling adventure with mystical enchantments, perilous corruption, and a budding romance on the open sea, then welcome aboard!
Without giving too much away, the story centers around Captain Kevril Longbright of the seafaring vessel The Scourge. He has a business arrangement with Jhakiva Keshmir, a prior shipmate who’s risen in the ranks of politics and points him in the direction of her enemies–who just so happen to be shipping significant bounty. What he discovers among one of his recent raids was far more than he expected… a Truthsayer! This slave woman, Preel, is compelled by magic to divine honest answers to nearly any question. The possibilities and dangers of such a treasure are endless!
If you’re interested in purchasing it (which you should), then check out The Pirate’s Scourge on Barnes & Noble and Amazon:
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-pirates-scourge-chris-a-jackson/1129152068
Beware! Here be *SPOILERS* mate!
Contrary to what many may believe, it seems there is honor among thieves – such is the case with Kevril. A noble pirate if there ever was such a thing, though he fancies himself as a rapacious scoundrel. Kevril’s primary weakness is that he can’t seem to draw any boundaries with his business partner, Jhakiva. Regardless of what’s best for him and his crew, he struggles with increasing difficulty to deny any of her “requests.” His mind justifies these veiled orders as “necessities,” despite his better judgement and the fact that he doesn’t have this complication with anyone else in the realm!
After discovering Preel on a mission, he ventures to ask her about the cause of his frustration. The Truthsayer answers… and the revelation was far more than he bargained for! Could Jhakiva truly be controlling him with a cursed enchantment? With his potential freedom on the line, Preel offers help… but only if he’ll free her in return. However, that would mean losing the greatest boon of a lifetime! Kevril must tread lightly, and so decides to test this supposed truth – his life and that of the crew depends on it! Nay, the very world around them could be at risk if the Truthsayer’s interpretation is correct!
What did I like about the book? In my personal opinion, it’s the best pirate story since Pirates of the Caribbean! Don’t agree? Debate me.
Chris A. Jackson writes with a unique voice, breathing life and depth into each of his characters–including side characters like Miko (Captain Longbright’s first mate), Hemp (the ship’s grumbling steward), and Boxley (a feisty youngster with ambition) just to name a few!
There is truly never a dull moment! I could be biased because I love oceanic adventures–though Jackson fills these pages with vivid imagery, intense scenes that provoke strong emotions, rising stakes, and ultimately a kick-ass story with a satisfying ending! I couldn’t wait to get the sequel, and am thankful to have a Nook which allows me to make online purchases instantly (probably not the best idea for a book-addict, if I’m honest…)
I love the journal entries at the beginning of each chapter. They allow a more intimate peek into the mind of Kevril, as well as other characters in later books of the series.
My primary issue with the book? I must say that Bert (the ship’s chef) is always cooking food that I want to eat! I don’t know if Jackson has access to this kind of cuisine in his daily life to where he can describe it in perfect detail, but damn! I got pretty hungry and slightly jealous of Kevril and his crew for a while – if anyone knows of a personal chef I can hire for cheap, please let me know!
That wraps it up for this review! I know I have done long-form summaries in the past, but going forward, I think I may start switching to shorter-form reviews for those who want to experience the story for themselves. 😉 At any rate, keep an eye out for the sequel The Pirate’s Truth!
Let me know what you think in the Comments Section below! Is this your first time seeing this series, and if so, are you excited or intrigued to read it now? Have you read this book and what are your thoughts? Do you have a favorite character? Did the plot shock or surprise you in certain scenes?
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