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Across the Spanish Main A Tale of the Sea in the Days of Queen Bess   By: (1851-1922)

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Across the Spanish Main is an adventurous tale of the sea, set during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Written by Harry Collingwood, this thrilling novel takes readers on a journey filled with danger, swashbuckling pirates, and high-stakes battles.

The story follows Captain Ralph Probyn, a courageous and fearless sailor. When Probyn’s ship is attacked by the Spanish Armada, he is captured and held prisoner by the Spanish. However, his indomitable spirit and unyielding determination lead him to plot his escape. With the help of his loyal crewmates, Probyn embarks on a daring rescue mission to save a fellow captive – a beautiful English lady named Gertrude.

Throughout the book, Collingwood skillfully recreates the maritime world of the late 16th century, immersing readers in a vividly detailed setting. His depiction of life at sea – from the storms that toss ships around like toys to the everyday routines of sailors – is both realistic and captivating. The author’s knowledge of naval history shines through, as he weaves historical events into the narrative seamlessly.

The characters in this novel are compelling and diverse. Captain Probyn is a protagonist who embodies courage and resourcefulness, making it impossible not to root for him. Gertrude, the damsel in distress, is far from being a typical helpless maiden; she possesses intelligence and spirit, proving to be a valuable asset to the crew. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each contributing their unique skills and personalities to the story.

Collingwood’s writing style is engaging, with fluid prose that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end. The pacing of the plot is well-balanced, alternating between heart-racing action sequences and quieter moments of character development. The author’s attention to detail, whether describing a battle scene or a ship’s rigging, lends an air of authenticity to the story.

One noteworthy aspect of this book is the way Collingwood explores the themes of loyalty, honor, and sacrifice. The bonds forged among the crewmembers on Probyn's ship are unbreakable, and their willingness to risk everything for each other is truly inspiring. Additionally, the sense of camaraderie and brotherhood that permeates the narrative gives the story an added layer of depth and emotion.

Across the Spanish Main is an enthralling maritime adventure that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and swashbuckling tales. Collingwood expertly combines action, historical accuracy, and a touch of romance to create a captivating story that captures the spirit of the era. With its engaging characters and thrilling plot, this novel is sure to leave readers eagerly awaiting the next installment in Captain Probyn’s seafaring adventures.

First Page:

Across the Spanish Main, by Harry Collingwood.

This book, of average length, is set at the end of the sixteenth century, when the English were in a state of war against the Spanish. The heroes of the story are two boys from Devon, a county in the south west of England. They set off with a view to repairing the fortunes of the family of one of them, by chasing and capturing Spanish treasure ships.

Their adventures are many and various, and include being captured by a famous pirate. They are also, later on in the book, condemned to be burnt to death by the Inquisition. Luckily they are able to escape this disagreeable outcome.

They also come across a cryptogram, which is rather difficult to solve, but which eventually they manage to decypher, and which leads them to the treasure hoarded by the pirate, who by that time has met his end.

This is a good book, and one which makes a very nice audiobook.

ACROSS THE SPANISH MAIN, BY HARRY COLLINGWOOD.

CHAPTER ONE.

HOW ROGER TREVOSE AND HARRY EDGWYTH MADE A CERTAIN COMPACT.

"Now now, Roger, my lad; what are you thinking of?" These words were addressed to a tall, fair young man of about eighteen or nineteen years of age, who was standing on Plymouth Hoe, gazing earnestly at the Sound and the evolutions of certain vessels which had just entered it round Penlee Point... Continue reading book >>




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