Adventures of Francis Drake
Box Hauling in Naval Historical Fiction: A Dangerous Sailing Maneuver
A behind-the-scenes research note on the sailing maneuver known as box hauling, and how it shaped a scene in the historical fiction novel Sic Parvis Magna. Inspired by the exciting club hauling scene from Pirates of the Caribbean, I attempt to work out if a sixteenth-century galleon could plausibly execute the maneuver.
Sic Parvis Magna: Read the Two Opening Chapters
Read the two opening chapters of Sic Parvis Magna, from the Drake family's flight from Tavistock to Francis's first sailing lessons in the Plymouth Sound.
Learn More about the Historical Fiction Novel Sic Parvis Magna
Sic Parvis Magna is a historical fiction novel set in the early years of Francis Drake, an ship's boy during the perilous world of Tudor-era seafaring. Against a backdrop of religious upheaval and maritime danger, young Drake must navigate stormy seas, moral dilemmas, and ruthless enemies to find his place in a world on the brink of transformation. Richly detailed, complex characters and a coming-of-age arc that mirrors England's rise as a naval power, this is a gripping tale for fans of high-seas adventures.
Who and What's Real in the Historical Fiction Novel Sic Parvis Magna
Read about some of the research that went into the creation of the historical fiction novel Sic Parvis Magna, from the people that fill the pages of the book to the places where it is set.
Memento Mori in Tudor England: Death, Faith, and Drake
Death haunted Tudor England. Explore how memento mori, Francis Drake's dangerous voyages, and religious fear shape the conflict in my historical fiction novel Sic Parvis Magna.
Historical Fiction Novel First Blood By Paul Jariabek
Stung by Spanish Vice Roy's betrayal at San Juan de Ulúa, the young captain Francis Drake swears vengeance—at any cost—on no less than a king. First Blood follows his rise from ruin to revenge, as he strikes at Spain's golden lifeline through the Isthmus of Panama and creates the fiery legend of El Draque.
Sic Parvis Magna—Good News (Chapter 2)
Chapter two closes with a letter from Francis's parents and the promise of a sea passage to join them in Gillingham.
Sic Parvis Magna—Sailing in Plymouth Sound (Chapter 2)
A sailing lesson aboard the Badger gives Francis his first experience of something he does not have to run from.
Sic Parvis Magna—Life at Plymouth (Chapter 2)
As the Drakes seek new livelihoods, Francis adjusts to Plymouth and asks questions about what divided his old home.
Sic Parvis Magna—Francis Sees Hawkins's Affairs (Chapter 2)
An errand in chapter two gives Francis a closer view of William Hawkins's business and influence in Plymouth.
Sic Parvis Magna—History of Hawkins (Chapter 2)
In chapter two, William Hawkins's maps and accounts of distant voyages introduce Francis to the possibilities of a merchant's life at sea.
Sic Parvis Magna—First Impressions of Plymouth (Chapter 2)
Chapter two, House of Hawkins, opens with Francis's arrival in Plymouth after the flight from Tavistock. The unfamiliar port offers Francis and his family a new beginning.