American Privateer

About the Book

Patrick Harrell's life was at a dead end as he helped deliver ale to the local taverns in Gloucester, Massachusetts, in the year 1778. The orphaned fourteen year-old boy was mistreated by Eli Smith, the wagon driver, who claimed to be protecting the youngster, but in reality mocked him and used him as an unpaid servant.

Patrick is spotted by Captain Robert Morton, the captain of the American privateer ship Freeport. The captain invites Patrick to join the crew of the Freeport as an apprentice seaman and helmsman. Patrick sees the invitation as a way out of his unhappy life. During the next five months at sea Patrick must grow into an able seaman aboard the Freeport or end up back in Gloucester with no job or home. It is during the chase and attempted capture of several British merchant ships that Patrick discovers whether he has grown into an important member of the Freeport's crew.

About the Author

George C. Richardson lives in Valley Center, CA with his wife Dinah a retired elementary school librarian and their mixed breed dog, Dozer. George is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. George was raised in Fredericktown, Pennsylvania. He served in the United States Navy for nine years, then attended Edinboro State University earning a degree in accounting. He is at present writing hiis first adult novel that he hopes to publish in the next 6 months