Brief sea story, followed by poor boy rises to wealth by careful planning and execution. Historically correct as the hero takes full advantage of technological change and societal upheaval to move swiftly upward. ( )

Kudos to the author for lack of coarse language. Tom Andrews and his father was attacked by thieves. The father was killed but young Tom managed to kill the others. He feared he would be punished for the deeds and fled. He was knocked over the head and ended up on a ship. He was more intelligent than most that surrounded him and he managed by his wits to thrive. About half way through the book I began to get bored because it plodded on and on with details that began to grate on my nerves. I persevered and managed to finish the first book in the series. This man was either the luckiest man alive or the most intelligent. Everything the young man touched turned to gold even though his station in life in that age was against him. Tom was not a likable character. He killed without a second thought and used women only for his own pleasure. Surprisingly he was fair to those that worked for him. Those who were unkind he promptly discharged them. The climate of that age was presented well and made you think that society during that time was a place you wouldn't want to be in. I am not sue I want to continue with the second volume if Tom's life continues on like the goose that laid the golden egg, however, the preview hints at his past catching up with him. ( )