Captain Caution. Illustrated

Captain Caution is a gripping standalone historical novel by Kenneth Roberts, celebrated author of Arundel and Rabble in Arms. First published in 1934, this maritime adventure is set during the War of 1812 and delivers a powerful blend of action, romance, and patriotism on the high seas.

The story follows Amos Caution, a brave and principled young man from the coast of Maine, who becomes swept up in the turmoil of war after his family’s trading ship is seized by the British. Determined to fight back, Amos joins the American privateer service, commanding a vessel that targets British shipping. What begins as a mission of justice soon turns into a harrowing journey filled with naval battles, capture, escape, and personal sacrifice.

As Amos confronts the harsh realities of warfare—both physical and moral—he is forced to make difficult decisions about duty, loyalty, and love. Along the way, he forms unlikely alliances, grows into a true leader, and discovers that courage often comes at a personal cost.

Rich with nautical detail and historical authenticity, Captain Caution showcases Roberts’s signature storytelling: vivid, dramatic, and grounded in fact. The novel is both a swashbuckling sea tale and a thoughtful exploration of character and conviction in a time of national crisis.

A must-read for fans of naval fiction, American history, and tales of honor and adventure on the open ocean.