Cormorant Crag A Tale of the Smuggling Days   By: George Manville Fenn (1831-1909)

In "Cormorant Crag: A Tale of the Smuggling Days" George Manville Fenn takes readers on an exciting journey through the treacherous world of smuggling in 19th-century England. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Cornwall's rugged coastline, the novel is a gripping narrative filled with vivid descriptions and thrilling adventures.

The story revolves around two main characters, Mark Penellyn and Eliza Johnstone, who find themselves embroiled in a dangerous web of smuggling activities. Mark, a young man from a respectable family, is initially lured into the clandestine world when he falls in love with Eliza, whose father is a prominent smuggler.

Fenn portrays the smuggling trade with great attention to detail, meticulously unraveling its dark underbelly. The author's extensive knowledge of the subject matter shines through in his meticulous depiction of the intricate smuggling operations, the secret hideouts, and the constant cat-and-mouse game with the authorities.

The characters are well-developed and relatable. Mark's journey from an innocent young man caught up in romance to a skilled smuggler is portrayed with emotional depth. Eliza, on the other hand, is a strong-willed and resilient character who provides a refreshing female perspective. The growth and transformation of these two central figures are at the heart of the novel, making them highly engaging protagonists.

One of the book's strengths lies in Fenn's ability to transport readers to the rugged beauty of Cornwall. His descriptions of the dramatic cliffs, tumultuous sea, and eerie caves create a vivid and immersive setting. The enthralling landscapes serve not only as a backdrop but also as an integral part of the story, contributing to the overall atmosphere of tension and suspense.

The pacing of the narrative is compelling, with Fenn expertly balancing moments of action and suspense with periods of introspection. The tension is constantly maintained, as readers are kept on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages to discover the fate of the characters.

While "Cormorant Crag" is primarily an adventure story, Fenn also weaves in themes of love, loyalty, and the pursuit of justice. The moral dilemmas faced by the characters, as they grapple with the consequences of their actions, add depth to the overall narrative and provoke thought-provoking questions.

If there is one minor criticism, it is that some of the dialogue can feel somewhat outdated. However, this is a small nitpick in comparison to the overall quality of the novel.

In conclusion, "Cormorant Crag: A Tale of the Smuggling Days" is a captivating historical adventure that will appeal to fans of the genre. George Manville Fenn's meticulous attention to detail, skillful characterization, and evocative descriptions make this a must-read for anyone seeking an enthralling tale of daring escapades and a glimpse into the secretive world of smuggling.

First Page:

The boys borrow Daygo's boat, without his leave, and explore the forbidden cave. Of course they discover all the recently smuggled goods. But a few days later they are in there, having discovered another way in by land, and are captured by the smugglers, who are French, and kidnapped. After that there are all sorts of exciting and perilous situations, and it looks likely that the boys will not come out of it alive... Continue reading book >>