Through the story of an 18th-century slave ship, this novel explores moral choices, the corruptions of greed and material gain, and men's behaviour "in extremis". It also articulates current concerns of corruption and distress. The author was awarded the 1992 Booker Prize for this novel.

Industry Reviews

Centering on the voyage of a mid-18th-century slave-trading ship, this is a magnificent tale of corruption and greed, of men under pressure and moral choices. In 1752, on a wave of optimism, the Liverpool Merchant set sail to buy and sell African slaves. The owner and captain are looking for a quick profit; the crew are seduced by visions of lewd African women. But once the slaves are on board disease spreads through the cramped ship, leading to acts of barbarity which bring about bloody consequences. Booker Prize winner 1992. (Kirkus UK)