The Edge of the Map

In 1577 Francis Drake prepares a five-ship expedition whose true objective is concealed behind the claim that it will trade in the Mediterranean. Tom Rouse leaves his family to serve as gunner and interpreter aboard the vessel that becomes the Golden Hind, following Drake through the Strait of Magellan and into the Spanish-controlled Pacific.

The novel recounts Drake’s circumnavigation from the perspective of a man close enough to translate orders, read captured charts and see the human consequences of the voyage. It covers the trial of Thomas Doughty at Puerto San Julián, the dispersal of the fleet, attacks on Spanish shipping and settlements, and the uncertain search for a route home across oceans not previously navigated by an English expedition.