Reviews

Reviews

fivestarreview-tb-200-c397-200-px

Set against the backdrop of the early 19th century, focusing on the tumultuous Napoleonic Wars, “Pressed: Recruitment by Force” by W. Blair Doman plunges readers into a world of naval warfare while keeping a sharp eye on personal struggle.

Thrilling and rich with historical detail, “Pressed” focuses on impressment, a practice in which boys and young men were forcibly recruited into naval service. Doman captures the brutality and human toll of such a thing through the experiences of the protagonist, William Ryketts, a young merchant sailor whose life is upended when he is forced into service by the British Royal Navy. What follows is a harrowing journey that explores themes of survival and resilience.

Read the review on Reader Views

Readers Reviews

Pressing was a cruel activity practiced by the British Navy

January 17, 2025

In the 1800’s the British Navy would employ gangs of men to kidnap British men and force them to serve against their will on British ships many times for years.The families of these men would have no idea whether they were dead or alive but usually suspect impressment.The author weaves a story as to how this cruel treatment affected a number of individuals and their families.The twists and turns in this story are exciting as well as giving a clear picture of life in that time.I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of the life at sea as well as the vessells.I would highly recommend this novel as once started it’s hard to put down.

John Vigars

The Book Report

December 16, 2024

W. Blair Doman’s novel, Pressed: Recruitment by Force, portrays the human toll exacted by the practice of impressment in 18th and 19th century England. From the opening scenes, Doman draws readers into the heart-wrenching reality faced by ordinary people torn from their homes and forced into naval service. The story is a deeply personal exploration of loss, endurance, and the resilience of those left behind.

The novel begins by introducing Maria Duncan, a young woman whose lover, Will Ryketts, is taken by a press gang in a harrowing tavern raid. Doman immediately immerses readers in the emotional turmoil of this moment, depicting the raw fear and helplessness Maria feels as her future is shattered. As the story unfolds, Doman paints vivid pictures of life in England during this period, illustrating the desperation of families trying to survive amid the ever-present threat of losing their loved ones to the sea. The early chapters set a poignant tone that lingers throughout the novel, as readers witness the devastating consequences of impressment on individuals and communities.

Midway through the book, the narrative takes a more complex turn as Doman delves into the life aboard the ships, with Will Ryketts enduring brutal conditions. Will’s journey as a reluctant sailor is marked by his determination to survive in hopes of returning to Maria. Doman’s attention to detail in describing the hardships of naval life is commendable, capturing the physical and emotional toll of being pressed into service. Will’s internal struggles are relatable, as he reflects on the life he was forced to leave behind and the uncertain future ahead. His connection to Maria, symbolized by a small jewelry box he works on for her, serves as a beacon of hope, offering a tender counterbalance to the harshness of his surroundings.

By the end of the novel, Doman intertwines the fates of the characters left behind and those sent to sea. Maria’s struggle to cope with Will’s absence intensifies, especially as she realizes she is pregnant with his child. Her resilience in the face of overwhelming odds is inspiring, and Doman’s portrayal of her strength adds depth to the story. The closing chapters, filled with emotional intensity, bring the reader full circle as the characters’ lives intersect once more, demonstrating that, despite the forces that tore them apart, their hope and love remain strong.

Pressed: Recruitment by Force is a powerful and evocative novel that shines a light on a dark chapter of British history. Doman’s ability to weave historical accuracy with rich emotional depth makes this a compelling read. The novel’s portrayal of impressment is not just a historical lesson but a moving exploration of human endurance and the bonds that sustain people through their darkest times.

Krysta

Very Informative and interesting novel discussing a terrible part of history

December 12, 2024

It is a very interesting book. I commend the author for the diversity of plots and the creativity in all the people interactions. Once I started reading, I could not put it down. It kept me guessing until the very end.

It was also very interesting to learn how England manned their warships 200 hundred years ago. Certainly a terrible, but true part of history.

David Siebenburgen

An interesting and captivating read.

December 3, 2024

I have been an avid reader since my retirement and enjoy books I can’t put down. I finished this 558 pages in less than a week. The plot has a number of twists and turns and the author does a fine job of developing his characters throughout the book. He has also obviously done his research on the ships and times which adds to the interest. The female characters elicit some sympathy by the reader and contribute to some realistic sexual relationships in the story.

Don Smith

Wonderful novel!

November 27, 2024

I’m not a reader and when I realized there were over 500 pages, I was hesitant I would ever finish it. However, once I started , I couldn’t put the book down. The characters were believable. The subject matter was fascinating and , at times, very visual.

I highly recommend “Pressed”as a captivating story. Blair Doman is an amazing writer.

Sue Chalmers
5.0
5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 7 reviews)
Excellent100%
Very good0%
Average0%
Poor0%
Terrible0%

Here are two ways that you’ll be able to share what you think:

  1. Write a review on Amazon.
  2. Share a comment right on my website!

Thank you for your support.

Pressed _ Recruitment by Force by W Blair Doman, fiction book