I really enjoyed reading this book. The book centers on American Pirates as they sailed up and down the coast. There were some familiar names but there were also many pirates I was not familiar with. The author does a very good job with separating the myth and romance from the reality and violence. The text is accompanied with many historical illustrations. The book is easy to read and the history is exciting. Enjoy this armchair voyage through history.

If you've got a drop of salt water in your veins or a thing for Johnny Depp as Capt. Jack Sparrow, you should read Eric Jay Dolin's new book, Black Flags, Blue Waters. There's just something about pirates that seems so romantic and mysterious--although the more I read about them, the more I realize how bloodthirsty and greedy they became, after initially being welcomed to the North American colonies. Dolin also debunked some myths I'd heard (nobody walked the plank or buried treasure on Gardiner's Island, apparently).

This was a very enjoyable book, and I recommend it for those who enjoy history and a bit of swashbuckling.

A great read for history buffs. i thought it was well curated with images and provided very interesting content. I had no idea how prevalent and diverse privacy was.. especially in America! I do think that there was some background and context that I was constrained by now knowing while reading since I'm not a big early colonialism history buff and that the author didn't provide more information on but other than that this was very enjoyable.

This is perfect for anyone who loves adventure on the high seas and, obviously, the lore of pirates. It was captivating and exciting.