The Sins of Men: An American Revolutionary War Drama (The Peter Smith Chronicles – American Revolution Historical Fiction Series) by Danny J. Bradbury – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.

The Sins of Men: An American Revolutionary War Drama by Danny J. Bradbury
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Warning contains some content which could trigger trauma.

Peter Beale is a young boy of 10 who lives in Portsmouth with his mother and six brothers and sisters, their dad died when he was young and now Peter feels responsible for his younger siblings and so he hangs around with some bits around his age who do some questionable things to provide for their families as well. One morning they decide to pick pocket in the local market, but unfortunately for Peter, he is caught and ends up in prison.

This is where his troubles really begin as he behind to understand the predatory nature of the incarcerated and real life, but he does find a protector, although not for long. Just as he is beginning to develop a routine, some naval officers enter the prison and pick Peter along with several others to go to war and fight the french on a ship in the naval fleet and so the next stage of his life begins .

Unfortunately for Peter, this life at sea isn’t all it’s cracked up to be with cramped quarters, unfriendly crew mates and the worst abuses by the captain which he can think of. As Peter begins to learn the worst things life can throw at him, he carries out his duties and whatever the captain dreams up all while dreaming of escape and when his chance arises in Boston where a giant fire breaks out, he takes it and lands somewhere where his luck may just change.

He is taken in by a wealthy family and hidden away until the ship leaves port and from there is given an education and a chance to become a member of society, all while hiding his past. This opportunity continues to bring him favour as he grows and integrates himself in American society, including going to war for th and getting his chance for revenge, but will he take it? This is a historical story of overcoming adversity and using a traumatic past to create a hopeful future as opportunities around and chance decides your fate.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

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