Lewis' Book of Reviews and Writing Advice

Review on "Cabin Boy"

Greetings, Ink Jars! Professor Lewis here with a new review (finally).

Title: Cabin Boy

Author: Sabersam

Genre: Adventure

Rating: PG-13 (for limited swearing, alcohol, and sexual references)

Summary: William Hartmann is a 17 year old kid, making a living on the merchant ship Griffin when a storm blows them horribly off course. What's worse, they are attacked by the most feared pirate in the Caribbean, Mad Ben Crowly and his ship Dauntless. But instead of killing Will, Captain Ben takes him on as part of his crew, and he learns that what he knew of the Infamous pirate isn't at all what it seems... Join will on an intriguing trip through the Caribbean, meet new and interesting characters with various backstories and dark pasts. Fans of Gore Verbinski's Pirates of the Caribbean will love this tale.

Things to work on (MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS!!!)So, I personally found that the romantic relationship build was lacking in substance. It needed a little more time I think. Maybe the show and not tell principle may have assisted here. Instead of telling us how Will felt about Ann, maybe show us--not in a dramatic way (like "he kissed her"--because that's a bit forward if there's no build), but in the little things. (NOTE: the author did do some of this and did it well when he did). It just needed more time.

Part of this may add into my next point: The female lead got on my nerves a little. I'm not sure exactly why, but she (SPOILERS) seemed to hate Will--though he tried to save her life--and then all of a sudden she loved him?

TENSE! This was not a huge issue, but definitely one I noticed. The tense (past tense, current tense) switched back and forth between current and past. This can really only be solved by editing OVER AND OVER and also reading books which use the tense which you wish to use. It's a difficult journey that I am still walking down.

At times, the plot itself seemed a little jumpy, but I can understand how skipping forward in time was necessary in not boring readers.

Things I liked: Finally we passed the criticism! Now we're at the section where I can convince you to read this book! Honestly, I think the end was amazing! It was perfect and brought the whole story to an excellent and satisfactory close. I also think that the beginning was great. It sucked you in from the first sentence (which, as you Ink Jars know, is something Professor Lewis finds very important).

The author used good, strong words which painted beautiful pictures. Sometimes it is difficult to find that balance between too many big words and not enough and he was able to!

I really enjoyed Will's personal, inner struggle. To me, characters are everything and I really liked the way Will thought through and dealt with the difficult issues and questions around him. Most of the other characters and their backstories were great as well.

Another element of writing which is extremely important is World Building. Sabersam built a home base. Most books have them. They're basically places where the characters return to frequently where they can recharge and rest. If built correctly, the home base should provide even the reader with a sense of safety and security. EXAMPLE: The Shire in The Lord of the Rings is the "Home base." Its a calm, safe, happy, home! Every time it is mentioned or its theme plays, I instantly feel comforted as if, there really is hope that someday, somewhere, somehow, something could be better!

There is one character whose guts I hate. The moment he entered the story, I wanted him to die. If you read the book, you'll know who I'm mentioning! The author really painted him as a slimy, shady, sinful character. This can be very difficult to do, but it is super important.

Extra Recommendation:

I personally would suggest Sabersam. He's open to constructive criticism and your thoughts on his work (and I know from experience, that accepting criticism on your precious work can be very difficult). Definitely check out his writing and tell him that Professor Lewis sent you! If you have any further comments on this book which you would like to add, you can drop them below.

Ending note:

Thank you again, Ink Jars, for being a great group of loyal readers! Remember, if you want your book reviewed, let me know and I'll get right to it!

Your faithful writer, Professor Lewis E.P.