Will I love Seafaring Women?

I usually over research when I write a novel, and this book was part of that over researching.

My novel does not have female pirates, but I mostly used this book to develop my main female character as the most pirate-opposite character ever. At least at the beginning of the book.

By the end of the book, my main character is still a lady, but she’s developed the strength of a pirate. I also used this book to establish how a socialite might have been treated by sailors on a cargo ship.

This book is for those who want to read verified facts about women during the age of wooden sail.

It is both entertaining and informative. For many of the chapters, the author gives you the “popular” tale, then tells you what really happened. It’s a good book for those who want to read about strong women, some of whom really did “go to sea,” during a period of time when women had few rights and few opportunities outside of the home.

Cordingly is more famous for his other major pirate work—the ubiquitous “Under the Black Flag,” which is required reading for anyone who wants to learn more about pirates. However, I prefer this book about pirate women, as well as other types of women who went to sea. When I started my research for my first book, I knew virtually nothing about the women of the Royal Navy and this book opened my eyes to their fascinating stories. There’s something for everyone in this book.