Raphael Semmes

Spencer…remains true to his purpose to produce a balanced biography explaining more of Semmes’ humanity rather than just recounting high-seas adventures of the hard-bitten Confederate “pirate.”"" - The Florida Historical Quarterly

""[Spencer’s] admiration for Semmes as a naval officer is fully justified…[Semmes] was the first commerce raider to operate in the age of steam, and—here I am in full agreement with Spencer—he may have been the best of all time."" - American History magazine

""The best biography of Semmes to date. A well-balanced study with new insight on his pre-Civil War career as well as his exploits during that conflict."" - William N. Still Jr., East Carolina University