Shanghai’d: The Adventures Begin by Curtis Stephen Burdick is an enthralling historical novel that follows the journey of Joshua Cabot, a Harvard-educated scientist, who travels to 1848 California seeking his fortune during the Gold Rush. However, after experiencing personal tragedy and succumbing to alcoholism, he finds himself shanghaied—forced aboard a merchant ship, embarking on a perilous voyage across the Pacific's treacherous waters. Joshua encounters various dangerous ports, barely surviving thanks to his scientific knowledge and unexpected friendships, ultimately leading him to Shanghai. The book culminates in a promise of further adventures, hinting at a larger story.

Curtis Stephen Burdick’s characters are elaborately drawn, and Joshua Cabot is a complex character — intelligent, ambitious, and burdened by tragedy. He is genuinely flawed, and readers will be keen to discover his fate as the plot progresses. Through the deft characterization, the author presents the typical hopeful American of the era, eager to break free from the constraints of society and achieve personal greatness. Other notable characters include Barnabas Keyes, Joshua's foreman, whose pragmatic yet ruthless nature contrasts sharply with Joshua's idealism, and Annabelle Whitman, who becomes a symbol of hope and humanity for Joshua in challenging times. The setting, primarily in 19th-century America and the Pacific, creates a rich canvas. The early days of San Francisco, with its bustling wharves and ragged communities, provide the perfect backdrop for exploration and discovery. Burdick skillfully captures the rawness of life during the Gold Rush, including the fevered ambitions and ruthless competition that defined the era. Shanghai’d is a spellbinding historical novel that examines the dangers of pursuing a fortune in the 19th century in a tale that is filled with adventure.

Joshua Cabot's work in metallurgy and arms manufacturing is interrupted when he receives an intriguing offer from Elias Moffet, a friend of his father and the most successful businessman in Massachusetts. Moffet gets information that there is gold in California, and he wants Joshua to lead an expedition there to expand his business empire in anticipation of the rush to follow. In return, Moffett promises the young man the wealth that will enable him to complete his life's work. Joshua obliges the wealthy businessman, but when tragedy strikes, his poor decision-making puts him in a precarious position aboard the Pacifica, a trading vessel with an odd crew bound for the Far East. Only time will tell if Joshua can find his way home in Curtis Stephen Burdick's Shanghai'd.

Curtis Stephen Burdick skillfully blends detailed historical information with captivating adventure in Shanghai'd. The character development is impressive. Burdick provides extensive backstories and clear motivations that create unique characters, allowing readers to connect with them strongly. This recurs throughout the narrative as he gradually introduces new characters, immersing readers in Joshua's extraordinary adventure. The dialogue is appropriate for the era, and the meticulous attention to detail—including the spelling of lesser-known words—will appeal to fans of historical fiction. The pacing is expertly crafted, with Burdick skillfully increasing the tempo whenever the crew of the Pacifica finds themselves in challenging situations. These moments will captivate fans of both suspense and action. Burdick's unique storytelling style and talent for highlighting the darker aspects of his characters—mainly through Joshua's actions—infuse realism that pushes the boundaries of the historical fiction genre. This approach resonates with a diverse audience of readers. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel.