This is historical fiction published by an independent publisher. It is an entertaining, well-researched, well-written tale set during the four years leading up to the American War of Independence (April 1775 – September 1783).

Many thanks to the publishers and to Netgalley for the ARC.

The Seagull transports us to the mid 1700’s where we meet Jeremy Whitehall, a young man who wastes away his days with drinking and gambling. His unpleasant uncle, who also happens to be his employer, sends him away to the states where he’s to spy on candle making companies to learn of their techniques and secrets. Unbeknownst to him, however, he’s about to embark an arduous journey that doesn’t go according to plan at all, and he finds love in the most unsuspecting of places. I wholeheartedly enjoyed this title, as we watch Jeremy do a complete 180. He becomes a determined, capable sea captain through various trials and hardships and now has the backbone to stand up to his uncle and to others, for that matter. Thank you to Netgalley for this opportunity!

This was my first book of Wes Snowden’s, and wow was it good! It is a historical adventure story, with a dash of romance sprinkled in. Jeremy had so many adventures in such a short amount of time, but they all tied together so wonderfully and the character grew as the book went on. I can’t wait to read the next instalment in the series!
4.5 out of 5 ⭐️

Jeremy Whitehall, a foppish, young drinking man, inherits his father's estate to find little left due to gambling and over indulgence. He is forced to work for his uncle who deals with candles and associated whaling. Jeremy and Uncle are not a happy combination. Uncle sends him off to Nantucket, in effect to spy upon competitors. The description of the story is remarkably good, for once. Jeremy does have a hard time to start but learns a lot on the long sea voyage, learns even more in the rather rough locations of Nantucket and Nasau. He meets with scum of the earth, solid and honourable sailors, pirates, other colourful characters, beautiful women and treasure, not to mention whales. It's a well researched story into the backgrounds of 18th century whaling and Britain versus American politics. Jeremy turns from essentially a wastrel to a sea captain beloved by his crew and starts developing commerce of his own. He is reunited with his first love so there is a happy ending. Although the early chapters dragged a little for me they certainly improved when Jeremy was shipped off to the colonies! He certainly had an exciting life! There is also potential for further adventures in the form of the imminent War of Independence and I look forward to reading more. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy.