W.W. Jacobs, best known for the chilling horror of 'The Monkey's Paw,' shows his sunnier side with this charming seaside novel. Set in the fictional port town of Sunwich, it feels like a snapshot of Victorian coastal life, where everyone knows everyone else's business.

The Story

The plot kicks off when Captain Nugent, long believed lost at sea, walks back into town. His return throws everything into chaos. His old business rival, Captain Hardy, has not only taken over his shipping office but has also set his sights on Nugent's now-grown daughter, Kate. Meanwhile, Nugent's former friend, a kind-hearted but meddling shipowner named Mr. Wilks, is trying to play matchmaker for Kate with a young man she doesn't love. The story winds through these tangled relationships, showing how pride, old wounds, and stubbornness can get in the way of simple happiness.

Why You Should Read It

This isn't a book about huge events or epic drama. Its magic is in the small moments and the well-drawn characters. You'll recognize the busybody, the proud old sailor, the sensible young woman, and the lovelorn young man. Jacobs has a gentle, observant humor. He pokes fun at human vanity and the silly feuds we cling to, but he does it with real affection. Reading it feels like spending a few afternoons in a cozy harbor pub, listening to local tales.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who enjoys classic, character-driven stories without the heavy gloom. If you like authors like Anthony Trollope or Jane Austen but wish their stories had more salt air and sailing ships, you'll feel right at home in Sunwich Port. It's a warm, witty, and ultimately satisfying read about second chances and letting go of the past.