Miles Wallingford Sequel to "Afloat and Ashore"   By: James Fenimore Cooper (1789-1851)

Miles Wallingford, the sequel to James Fenimore Cooper's renowned novel "Afloat and Ashore," takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the tumultuous life of its resilient protagonist. Seamlessly picking up where the first book left off, Cooper once again displays his unparalleled mastery of storytelling, bringing to life a riveting tale filled with adventure, love, and intricate plot twists.

Set in the early 19th century, Miles Wallingford transports us to maritime landscapes, where sailing ships, treacherous waters, and vivid seafaring communities become the backdrop for an unforgettable narrative. Cooper effortlessly immerses readers into this world, meticulously detailing the intricacies of the sailing industry, while at the same time unraveling a captivating story of determination and personal growth.

The novel follows Miles Wallingford, a young man eager to establish himself as a successful sailor after enduring a series of misfortunes. As the story unfolds, we witness his unwavering spirit and determination to reclaim his fortunes, making for a character that readers will both admire and sympathize with. Cooper skillfully showcases Wallingford's growth as he navigates through the maritime world, facing numerous challenges and adversities that test his resilience and moral compass.

One of the most impressive aspects of Miles Wallingford is the author's ability to seamlessly blend elements of adventure, romance, and mystery into a cohesive and compelling narrative. Cooper masterfully interweaves plotlines, effortlessly shifting between heart-stopping sea battles, tender love interests, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged and eagerly turning the pages.

Furthermore, the novel's richly developed cast of characters adds depth and authenticity to the story. From Wallingford's loyal and resourceful friend, Ready Money Jack, to the captivating and enigmatic character of Lucy Hardinge, each individual brings their own fascinating storylines, creating a tapestry of human experiences that reflect the complexities of the time.

Cooper's vivid and descriptive prose is another highlight of the novel, effortlessly transporting readers to the maritime world he meticulously recreates. His careful attention to detail paints a vivid picture of the sailing industry, from the soaring masts and billowing sails to the whimsical traditions and gritty realities of life at sea. Through his evocative language, the author succeeds in breathing life into every scene, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and smells of this bygone era.

Though the pacing occasionally ebbs and flows, with moments of intense action followed by periods of slower character development, Miles Wallingford ultimately delivers a rewarding reading experience. Cooper's skillful storytelling, well-developed characters, and vivid descriptions make this sequel a worthy companion to its predecessor, "Afloat and Ashore." Seamlessly continuing the story of Miles Wallingford, Cooper once again proves himself to be a master of the maritime genre, crafting a narrative that will captivate readers from the very first page.

First Page:

The conclusion of this tale requires but little preface. Many persons may think that there is too much of an old man's despondency in a few of the opinions of this portion of the work; but, after sixty, it is seldom we view the things of this world en beau . There are certain political allusions, very few in number, but pretty strong in language, that the signs of the times fully justify, in the editor's judgment; though he does not profess to give his own sentiments in this work, so much as those of the subject of the narrative himself. "The anti rent combination," for instance, will prove, according to the editor's conjectures, to be one of two things in this community the commencement of a dire revolution, or the commencement of a return to the sounder notions and juster principles that prevailed among us thirty years since, than certainly prevail to day. There is one favourable symptom discoverable in the deep seated disease that pervades the social system: men dare, and do, deal more honestly and frankly with the condition of society in this country, than was done a few years since. This right, one that ought to be most dear to every freeman, has been recovered only by painful sacrifices and a stern resolution; but recovered it has been, in some measure; and, were the pens of the country true to their owners' privileges, we should soon come to a just view of the sacred nature of private character, as well as the target like vulnerability of public follies and public vice... Continue reading book >>