Spargo's Confession ─ A Novel of Cornwall 1810-22

The Revd. James Spargo has a well kept secret to impart- his youthful involvement with the great Cornish smuggling industry. Using the proceeds of his illegal activities to gain an education and become a parish priest, in so doing becoming involved with three winsome beauties, he defends his activities and explains his motives. This book also presents the underlying economic necessities of 19th century smuggling: poverty and cruelly high import duties on nearly everything, necessities as well as luxuries. Securely based on the history of Lodenek (Padstow) this novel by one of Cornwall's foremost authors brings us vividly back to life in early 19th century North Cornwall, continuing and expanding the tradition of Jamaica Inn and the Poldark series. 'A great tale of estuarine romance, adventure and seafaring reminiscent of Crosbie Garstin. His best novel yet.' Bert Biscoe, Cornish poet and activist. 'Rawe is a hero of the Cornish revival.' Cornish World. 'A cracking yam full of originality and enthusiasm, it tells of the Reverend James Spargo who takes up his pen 'to confess my past misdeeds and unlawful exploits.' Cornish people at home and Cousin Jacks abroad will delight in this historic drama, fi lled with colour, and the salty fl avour of the sea, as well as the divisions of local life. ' Western Morning News.