The title and the description compelled me to read Samuel Marquis' Captain Kidd. I am fascinated with shipping narratives because there is a plethora of knowledge to learn. Marquis is a descendent (ninth great grandson) of the infamous pirate Captain Kidd. Marquis purposes to change the rhetoric of Kidd from pirate to hero who endured horrible British propaganda. Before Marquis begins his novel long argument, he provides an extensive glossary of historic names, places, and battles. I appreciate this addition because the reader can easily reference it for clarification during Marquis' narrative. Marquis provides readers with his extensive research. A complete Kidd history is provided: noting romantic interests, expeditions, battles, and injuries. To separate Kidd's name from pirate and establish him as a noteworthy British gentleman, Marquis discusses Kidd's attention to remaining law-abiding. Kidd obtained "letters of marque," which legally permitted him to target enemy ships or pirate ships. The plunder would benefit The Crown, of course, and some monies were given to Kidd to cover expenses and pay his crew. Marquis also discusses the origins of Kidd's falling into political trouble. A British war captain known as Wrong-Way-Warren tried to steal Kidd's crew, thus Kidd fled away from the pursuing captain in order to save his men. There are additional pieces of evidence that Marquis introduces into his argument. Marquis provides a strong argument to remove the derogatory rhetoric from Kidd's reputation. Is Kidd a pirate, a hero, or a combination of both? These are the questions that I am continuing to ask myself.

Thank you to #SamuelMarquis, #DiversionBooks, and #NetGalley for my e-ARC in exchange for my honest review. #CaptainKidd was a pleasure to read.