Dark Frigate by Charles Boardman Hawes is a thrilling tale of adventure on the high seas that will captivate readers of all ages. The story follows the young protagonist, Philip Marsham, as he embarks on a dangerous journey aboard the ship The Rose of Devon, which is crewed by a motley group of pirates and scoundrels.

Hawes masterfully weaves together elements of action, suspense, and historical detail to create a vivid and engaging story. The vivid descriptions of life aboard a sailing ship in the 17th century bring the time period to life, and the characters are richly drawn and complex.

As Philip navigates the treacherous waters of the Caribbean, he must learn to trust his instincts and rely on his own resourcefulness to survive. Along the way, he faces betrayal, danger, and moral dilemmas that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Overall, Dark Frigate is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and adventure stories. Hawes' writing style is engaging and immersive, and the story is both entertaining and thought-provoking. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a captivating and memorable read.

Book Description:
The frigate Rose of Devon rescues from a wreck in mid-ocean twelve men who show their gratitude by seizing the Rose, killing her captain and sailing toward the Caribbean where they hope to plunder Spanish towns and galleons. Mistaking an English man-of-war for a merchantman, they are captured and brought back to England for trial. Only one, an English lad, Philip Marsham, a member of the original crew of the Rose, is acquitted; and he, after adventures in the forces of King Charles, tires of Cromwell's England and sails for Barbados once more on the Rose of Devon.

The Dark Frigate has long been a favorite story for boys and in 1924 was awarded the John Newbery Medal, given annually "for the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children."

When The Dark Frigate was first published F. F. Van deWater in The New York Tribune said: "No one, we think, has written so perfect a pirate tale since Treasure Island."