When the HMS Torren falls prey to this murdering pirate, Peter and the charismatic Matthew Book manage to separately escape, but everyone else is killed. Peter becomes apprenticed to a British spy, and is reunited with Matthew. The three of them strive to outwit the pirates and French government and keep America out of their hands.

This lively book has a multi-level plot and exciting characters. There is even a bit of romance with the beautiful, rich, young American girl, Lucy Cosgrove. I thought the size of the book might be a bit intimidating for reluctant readers, but it left me wanting more. The action goes from the English Channel to Paris to the Caribbean and back again. Molloy's extensive research is evident in this seafaring adventure on a grand scale that is impossible to put down. He promises a sequel, and I can't wait...Peter Raven is one of my favorite characters.