The Wicked Trade by Jan Needle
A compelling novel of press gangs, smuggling and brutal murder -- a fascinating picture of the dark realities of British 18th-century naval life. Though France and Britain are at war, both nations' seafarers cooperate clandestinely in a 'Free Trade' of increasing ruthlessness -- while the Impress Service's struggle to find men for His Majesty's ships grows ever more difficult. It is in that most reviled part of the Navy that William Bentley reluctantly resumes his career. As an officer on the Biter, a Press tender based in the London River, he has to learn fast about the darker side of 18th-century city life. And with his fellow officer Sam Holt, he soon has his first appalling encounter with the Free Trade as the Biter ranges coastal waters to prey on returning merchantmen. Much worse is to follow, however. For when Will and Sam are caught up in the investigation of the violent deaths of two Customs officers at the hands of smugglers, they have no idea that behind it are some of the most powerful and dangerous men in the country. 'A gripping tale of naval life in the 18th century, of a navy manned by pressed men living a life worse than jail, of smuggling and a liberal dash of murder' irish news
His work has won some outstanding reviews: 'If you like your Hornblower with more than a lick of the cat, this is for you' the times 'A powerful story of lost humanity.. its violent emotions are shattering' guardian
A native of Portsmouth, Jan Needle has had a lifelong interest in the sea and naval history. Under his pseudonym Frank Kippax, he has published four acclaimed thrillers. Under his real name, Jan Needle, he has a successful career as a TV scriptwriter and as a writer of acclaimed children's books. His previous novel, A Fine Boy for Killing, also features William Bentley.
| SKU | Unavailable |
| ISBN 13 | 9780006511151 |
| ISBN 10 | 0006511155 |
| Title | The Wicked Trade |
| Author | Jan Needle |
| Series | A Sea Officer William Bentley Novel |
| Condition | Unavailable |
| Binding type | Paperback |
| Publisher | HarperCollins Publishers |
| Year published | 1999-07-19 |
| Number of pages | 448 |
| Cover note | Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary. |
| Note | Unavailable |