Voyage of Despair. The Hannibal, its captain and all who sailed in her,1693-1695

Voyage of Despair is a remarkable achievement, tackling challenging material with skill and presenting it in a way that is both accessible and deeply engaging. The narrative takes readers on the harrowing journey of the Hannibal slave ship, a voyage that is as compelling as it is sobering. To say I “enjoyed” the journey feels like the wrong word, given the subject matter, but the book captivates in a way that few historical accounts manage.

What stands out is the careful pacing of the narrative. Questions naturally arise as you read—What happened to John Browne when left behind? Why does an image feature a tiger in a cage during events in Africa?—but rather than leaving readers in the dark, the author skilfully answers these queries in later chapters. This structure encourages thoughtful engagement and reflection throughout.

Beyond its readability, the book is academically rigorous, offering thorough references that firmly establish its place as an important contribution to the field. It balances scholarly depth with a compelling narrative style, a rare feat in historical writing.

The author’s voice is confident and assured, guiding the reader with the expertise of someone deeply immersed in the subject. There are moments where the passion and anger are palpable—particularly in the vivid descriptions of the ships’ appalling conditions by the time they reached Barbados. These passages are powerful and unforgettable.

Voyage of Despair is a masterful work—both a gripping read and a significant academic contribution. For anyone interested in the complexities of history and the human stories within, this book is not to be missed.

Mr Alan Canty (FRCS DDS)

Available to order HERE