THE GUINEAMAN

A historical seafaring novel is set during the Seven Years’ War of the eighteenth century. Fleeing a false charge of murder, William Kite, a pharmacist's son, joins the crew of a slaver (Guineaman) as ship's doctor. The humane young man chooses from the "cargo" a mistress with whom he falls in love. In the subsequent trials and adventures, this "blackamoor" proves a woman of rare intelligence and character, as well as physical beauty. The prose nicely reflects period usage without being so authentic as to confuse modern listeners. Narrator Dunlop shines in the dialogue but reads narrative flatly. Y.R. © AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 04]