I absolutely LOVED “Cinnamon and Gunpowder.” It’s one of those books you're almost reluctant to finish because then you'll have to admit it's finally over. The author did a smash up job mingling something along the lines of “Pirates of the Caribbean” with mouthwatering food. It took me a bit longer to finish than normal, but I fully think this book is one that’s meant to be savored. The few times I read more than a few chapters I felt somewhat hollow. It was as though I wasn’t able to fully absorb all of the imagery and nuances of life aboard a pirate ship.
There were quite a few terms or phrases I wasn’t familiar with, but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. I learned quite a bit. I thought the role Wedgwood played was interesting. I’ve never read a book that so flawlessly combined food, adventure and romance. I’ll admit some of the scenarios weren’t very likely to occur in real life, but pirate lore is built around exaggerating the truth.
I fully intend on purchasing this book for my personal library. I imagine it’s one I’ll have to reread every few years.