“In a riveting history that reads like the best novels, Stephan Talty stylishly extricates the pirates of the Caribbean from the imprecise caricature that so often consumes them. Epic sea battles, daring adventures, rich history, great villains and heroes alike-it’s a treasure.” -Neal Bascomb, author of The Perfect Mile and Higher “A wickedly entertaining tale of pirates and the Caribbean seas they once ruled like kings. Talty's portrait of the legendary privateer Henry Morgan is a marvelous study in contradictions-a man of astounding heroism, brilliance, compassion, and charm, who was also capable of the greatest betrayal.” -Tom Reiss, author of The Orientalist But it’s not only blood and swash: Empire of Blue Water is also a mirror to our own times, showing that attempting globalization against a backdrop of the clash of civilizations is nothing new,and that religious violence is often a thinly veiled cover for greed and personal ambition. “Stephan Talty’s new book serves up swashbuckling history at its briny, blood-soaked best, with enough violence and passion to keep the pages flying by. with style and energy Talty tells a tale of boundless wickedness.” -William M. Well-researched nonﬁction that reads like a novel.” - Washington Times “Fresh insight into pirates’ dens of old. “A sparkling and engrossing adventure narrative.” - Boston Phoenix “A ripping yarn, worthy of its gaudy subject.” - Dallas Morning News characters leap to life.” - New York Times Book Review

Empire of Blue Water by Stephan Talty