It's been a while since I read this, so for once I won't write a wordy review! My main memory is loving the concept and story (pirates who suck your blood!), and being really disappointed in the writing style. It is still a good action story and will not disappoint pirate fans, but in terms of sheer good writing, someone forgot to teach Justin Somper to "show, not tell." Second in the series is out now, but I don't really feel like reading it. 
 I do remember liking Ma Kettle's Tavern, "a cross between an old pub and a pier," and the fact that Ma Kettle wore an outfit made entirely of skull-and-crossbone flags, sewn together. That has "comic book character" written all over it! 
 Also, five stars for the painting on the cover. Very dramatic!