A sailor, identified as QMC, is writing letters to his niece while aboard a ship in the years 1898-1902. QMC, who is well educated, is able to convey to his niece what is happening to him as he spends time in the Caribbean and Mediterranean Seas. He also has several eventful sojourns on shore. His life is fraught with peril, and he encounters pirates, rough weather, and all manner of other dangers. A bluff and hardy man, QMC proves a capable narrator as he explains to his sheltered niece what his days are like as he tries to make his living.

A Sailor’s Tale: Miss Judith 1898-1902 Miss Molly, by E.G.’ Lusko, is a work of historical fiction written in the form of letters, similar to Dracula or The Color Purple. This choice by the author limits the scope of his writing to some extent. The reader cannot see from the other character’s point of view, as would be the case with a third-person narrative style. However, this does not make this novel any less compelling, as QMC furnishes the reader with rich period details that paint a vivid and fascinating portrait of his life and times. 

It’s evident that E.G.’ Lusko knows the world about which he’s writing. The conversations between QMC and the individuals who enter his orbit are believable, and some of them are quite touching. As for the narrator, though he’s rough and uncouth in some ways, he also reveals unexpected depths of feeling at certain moments. He makes a living with his brawn and seafaring know-how, but he can also report on the motivations of those around him with surprising insight.

A Sailor’s Tale: Miss Judith 1898-1902 Miss Molly was thought-provoking and enjoyable. It’s interesting to hear about what was happening in the world at this point in history. Being in the hands of a gifted and creative storyteller elevates the narrative beyond the level of comparable works of historical fiction.

Pages: 386 | ISBN : 1959071963