The Salamander (The Dawn of America series Book 2)
The second book in Walker’s The Dawn of America series opens in Salem, Massachusetts, a colonial city that becomes a major port for privateering after the outbreak of the Revolutionary War. Jonathan Haraden is among the Patriots who joins the Massachusetts Navy, and he finds himself quickly promoted to captain after showing exceptional courage and steadfast resolve under fire. He sets out to sea a heartbroken widower, having recently lost his wife, and leaves behind two young daughters entrusted to a preacher’s daughter. As months pass, the financial welfare of his crew and support for the war effort become top of mind, so he turns to privateering as Captain of the Tyrannicide. Many of his voyages take him to the West Indies and across the Atlantic as he transports essential supplies and captures British ships along the way. His unwavering show of daring and seamanship in the face of cannon fire earns him the nickname “The Salamander” in reference to a mythical creature born in flames that always emerges unharmed.
The Salamander gets off to a slow start with the first two chapters mainly devoted to the Haraden household, the antics of Jonathan’s daughters, and the search for a suitable governess. The remainder of the novel is characterized by some rather uneven pacing as scenes flip back and forth between descriptions of the Haraden children growing up under the care of their governess, a simmering love interest, and battles at sea. That said, Captain Haraden’s experiences as a privateer are hugely engaging and highlight his importance in supplying the colonies with badly needed arms and goods. Author’s notes complement this well-researched novel that’s filled with characters and events drawn from history.
