This is a quite amusing nautical tale of the British Navy of the around the year 1700. While, as with much early 'humor', it is somewhat heavy-handed, the sympathies of the author are clear and good, and cruelty is often averted by good fortune or background characters. First published under the title 'The Dog Fiend', the primary characters are an evil captain of a cutter and his dog. The dog seems indestructible, as is the poor cabin boy who is the butt of the captain's ill humor, and who often is chewed on by the dog. The cutter is sent against smugglers, transporting ' Alamodes and lute strings' - a term for foreign silks. But, the smugglers really are Jacobites plotting against King William, and much of the action relates to politics of that time. ( Arnold Banner)
My third Marryat book and once again a delightful tale...this time filled with treachery and deceit. There is certainly more than a nod due to the narrator who expertly read the story. Marryat's talent lies in his ability to both develop characters that are extremely engaging and then set them in a yarn within a particular historical context...this time the late 1600s and the subdifuge of action between the respective supporters of King William of Orange and the deposed King James. Importantly...this is so much more than a story about a dog...though the cur Snarleyyow does play a prominent part. Marryat provides great insight to life at the time and how hard this was for some...particularly sailors on board a British naval vessel. Loved this book.
(5 estrellas)
Virginia Z
The narrator was perfect for this hilarious Marryat yarn about Snarlyyow , a demon dog with a mysterious origin, and his equally malevolent owner.
(4 estrellas)
elm
Very amusing tale of treachery and treason liberally leavened with broad humor. Rather well read.
great listen
(4.5 estrellas)
James E
well read plot a lottle here and there but really enjoyed it . narration excellent.
Very entertaining story
(5 estrellas)
Dr. Dijkstra
Great story with twists and turns to arrive at a satisfying conclusion.
(5 estrellas)
cyberhelp
Good enough to make you think you were there and saw it all.
mtm
(5 estrellas)
Matthew T.M.
A very entertaining story, excellent job by the reader!