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5 out of 5 stars
By
Mel
on
06-24-15
Pure Gold
This is the kind of book that had I read it in my youth -- I'd be a treasure hunter now! A thrilling adventure that traces the search for the legendary pirate ship, The Golden Fleece, commanded by Joseph Bannister, a former merchant captain turned pirate extraordinaire. Not a name I'd heard before, but detailing Bannister's pirating career, Kurson gives us a hall of fame pirate captain that takes on two British frigates simultaneously, while his own ship was careening. [Careening was the practice of grounding a sailing vessel at high tide in order to expose one side of its hull for maintenance and repairs below the water line when the tide goes out.]
Kurson writes a fantastic tale, weaving in extensive research and history as colorful chapters that enliven the story instead of bogging it down. From the "Golden Age of Pirates" to the Mafia years of the Gambino family, and the war in Viet Nam, Kurson traces the evolution of treasure hunters John Mattera and John Chatterton, and the grueling quest that would test their skills, patience, and dedication.
You'll be transported to the Caribbean waters, searching for sunken ships and their treasures, and back through history to the age when pirates sailed the seas. A page turner that I wished would have been at least 3x as long. Exciting and riveting, fascinating history expertly written, and Porter is a flawless narrator. Loved every minute of it and highly recommend.
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54 of 59 people found this review helpful
5 out of 5 stars
By
Charles R Fisher
on
07-16-15
What an Amazing Adventure
I found myself swept away in this story of pirates and divers separated by several hundred years, yet occupying the same body of water. Not only did I love the story, I loved the way this book was written. Suspenseful and breathtaking. This book made me feel like I just took an amazing adventure.
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17 of 18 people found this review helpful
Customer Reviews
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3 out of 5 stars
By
Andrew
on
07-29-16
Entertaining but historically dubious<br />
entertaining enough tale bit the author has a serious man crush on the treasure hunters
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0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Customer Reviews
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5 out of 5 stars
By
Duncan
on
03-15-16
Great
very entertaining and down to earth. I loved it. This requires 15 words. More words.
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1 of 1 people found this review helpful