Review of The Foundlings and Fisherman from Tumby
Posted: 12 Jun 2024, 10:12
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Foundlings and Fisherman from Tumby" by Phillip Leighton-Daly.]
The Foundlings and the Fisherman from Tumby by Phillip Leighton-Daly is a captivating tale that intertwines the lives of resilient characters with the unforgiving challenges of 19th-century maritime adventures.
The story begins with Confederate Captain William Quantrill’s devastating raid on the town of Lawrence, Kansas, where Jon Treves and his wife Margaret tragically lose their twin sons. Fleeing the horrors of the Civil War, they embark on a perilous journey to Australia aboard the ship Morning Mist. Onboard, they meet a colorful cast of characters, including the formidable first mate Charles Webster, his loyal hunting hound Marley, and the cabin boy Pip. The voyage is fraught with danger, from the brutal captain’s tyrannical rule to a catastrophic shipwreck off the Australian coast. The passengers and crew must navigate treacherous waters, both literal and metaphorical, as they struggle to survive on a desolate shore.
Despite its brevity, this book possesses significant emotional depth. It explores profound emotional experiences such as grief, loss, and hope. The depiction of Jon and Margaret Treves' journey after the tragic loss of their children adds a poignant layer to the narrative, making it both moving and thought-provoking. Additionally, the travelers face numerous challenges, from dealing with mutinous scoundrels and natural disasters to the constant threat of starvation and illness. Their struggle to reach civilization tests their resilience and determination to the limit. The book's strongest aspect, in my opinion, is its exploration of camaraderie and trust, highlighting the bonds formed in the face of adversity.
There is nothing I dislike about this book. I enjoyed every aspect: the narrative, the writing style, and the imagery. I also appreciate the thorough editing, as I encountered very few grammatical issues—none of which detracted from the delightful reading experience. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction rich in emotional depth and adventure. Fans of stories about resilience, survival, and the indomitable human spirit will find The Foundlings and the Fisherman from Tumby particularly compelling and inspiring. However, I must issue a caution that the book includes sensitive depictions of massacres involving men, women, and children. This content may not be suitable for all readers, so discretion is advised.
In conclusion, I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. Phillip Leighton-Daly's meticulous attention to historical detail transports readers to the 19th century, capturing the essence of the era with remarkable authenticity. His portrayal of life at sea and the challenges faced by the characters provides insightful glimpses into the harsh realities and unpredictable nature of maritime adventures during that time. It has been a thoroughly engaging read from start to finish.
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The Foundlings and Fisherman from Tumby
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
The Foundlings and the Fisherman from Tumby by Phillip Leighton-Daly is a captivating tale that intertwines the lives of resilient characters with the unforgiving challenges of 19th-century maritime adventures.
The story begins with Confederate Captain William Quantrill’s devastating raid on the town of Lawrence, Kansas, where Jon Treves and his wife Margaret tragically lose their twin sons. Fleeing the horrors of the Civil War, they embark on a perilous journey to Australia aboard the ship Morning Mist. Onboard, they meet a colorful cast of characters, including the formidable first mate Charles Webster, his loyal hunting hound Marley, and the cabin boy Pip. The voyage is fraught with danger, from the brutal captain’s tyrannical rule to a catastrophic shipwreck off the Australian coast. The passengers and crew must navigate treacherous waters, both literal and metaphorical, as they struggle to survive on a desolate shore.
Despite its brevity, this book possesses significant emotional depth. It explores profound emotional experiences such as grief, loss, and hope. The depiction of Jon and Margaret Treves' journey after the tragic loss of their children adds a poignant layer to the narrative, making it both moving and thought-provoking. Additionally, the travelers face numerous challenges, from dealing with mutinous scoundrels and natural disasters to the constant threat of starvation and illness. Their struggle to reach civilization tests their resilience and determination to the limit. The book's strongest aspect, in my opinion, is its exploration of camaraderie and trust, highlighting the bonds formed in the face of adversity.
There is nothing I dislike about this book. I enjoyed every aspect: the narrative, the writing style, and the imagery. I also appreciate the thorough editing, as I encountered very few grammatical issues—none of which detracted from the delightful reading experience. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction rich in emotional depth and adventure. Fans of stories about resilience, survival, and the indomitable human spirit will find The Foundlings and the Fisherman from Tumby particularly compelling and inspiring. However, I must issue a caution that the book includes sensitive depictions of massacres involving men, women, and children. This content may not be suitable for all readers, so discretion is advised.
In conclusion, I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. Phillip Leighton-Daly's meticulous attention to historical detail transports readers to the 19th century, capturing the essence of the era with remarkable authenticity. His portrayal of life at sea and the challenges faced by the characters provides insightful glimpses into the harsh realities and unpredictable nature of maritime adventures during that time. It has been a thoroughly engaging read from start to finish.
******
The Foundlings and Fisherman from Tumby
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon