Packed with exciting incident worthy of wide appeal to those who love thrilling nautical encounters and the sea.
— Nautical Magazine
Much of the enjoyment of Under False Colours is the fact that Woodman writes with such authority. His mariner's lingo is flawless, and at times, the reader is befuddled with his sheer virtuosity in the area. But the action fills in the terms that the reader may be unaware of, and there is no doubt that Nathaniel Drinkwater rates up there with the best of the nautical world.
— Midwest Book Review
Rich in detail, historically accurate, and displaying a masterly knowledge of the technical aspects of ships under sail, Woodman's novel is comparable to sea fiction by masters such as C.S. Forester and Alexander Kent in its evocation of the past age of wooden ships and iron men. Highly recommended for public libraries.
— Library Journal
Those looking for high seas action and historical intrigue are in luck . . .
— Publishers Weekly
Well written and exciting.
— Latitudes & Attitudes
Woodman knows his ships and the sea and is a craftsman of great ability.
— Guernsey Evening Press
Brilliantly told . . . the characters are real and lively, the language similar; but above all it is a convincing and compulsive seafaring story.
— Oxford Times
Action to the bone, no romantic bilge-water.
— Observer
. . . for all who like to read about naval action in the 19th century, told with gusto and bravura.
— Publishing News