Leeward by empiresofwater

I am a massive fan of historical fiction so thank you empiresofwater for asking me to review your book, for some reason I always have a hard time finding books of this genre so I was very excited to read your book!!

Cover:
The boat I love that is is historically accurate to the time period for which this story is set in, also the weather reflects the mood of the story, typically lightning (when at sea) is a sign of trouble up ahead, which works perfectly for your story as during the story, Hiram’s crew suffer from a disease, also thunder is a sign of trouble brewing which is clearly shown by Arthur who is angry about losing out on command and is Hiram’s first in command, all in all I love the fact that you made a connection between your story and cover, very clever!!

Description:
At the start you put as a reader right into the scenario, which I like, I love diving straight into the story, I don’t know if you meant to do this but the word “sinking” makes me think of it being a pun seeing as the book is about ships. I also like how at the beginning you wrote what the time period is so we can imagine what it would be like, this is a very good description, it’s got loads of details yet it isn’t revealing too much.Storyline:
I love that you included facts in your story, I thought that it was really fun and interesting, and also thank you for the glossary on some words I was unsure what they meant so thank you for providing one. I was laughing so much at the historical swears honestly I love it so much. Usually most writers like to build up to the action whereas you chose to jump straight into the action, which you have done so beautifully, this storyline is so so fascinating, there is always something happening, there is never a dull moment, I can’t wait to read more!

Characters:
I admire how some of your characters are actually based off real historical figures. I find it funny how Nightingale was more worried about Robert spilling something on the deck than him hurting himself, which I understand I mean I’m pretty sure no one wants to have to clean up something that could’ve been prevented, especially after having to clean the deck for hours. I absolutely adore how you choose to reveal information/backstories about characters over time instead of just outright saying it, building up the reader’s interest in them, you really are such a good writer.

Grammar/Spelling:
I love how in-depth you go with your descriptions it really makes me feel like I’m actually sailing on a ship on the ocean in 1800. Something that hit me is that you can somehow find a way to make the reader physically react, for example some parts you made me shudder, some parts you actually made me smile whenever there was romance in the air, you are a very talented writer, you are really amazing!

Engagement of the reader:
I can honestly say, this book was so interesting and I’ve learnt so many news facts become of you, more people should read your book, honestly it’s that good!