Books On Board
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Bloody Jack Books in Order

12 Books
2002 – 2014 Published
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How to Read the Bloody Jack Series

The Bloody Jack series by L.A. Meyer is a linear historical adventure following the life of Mary 'Jacky' Faber. Because the series follows a strict chronological narrative—following Jacky as she grows from an orphaned street urchin in London to a ship's boy, a pirate, and beyond—you should read the books in their original publication order.

There are no spin-offs, co-authored novels, or alternate universe companion stories. Starting with the first book is essential to understand the evolving relationships, recurring characters, and Jacky's personal growth across the Napoleonic era.

Bloody Jack Books in Chronological & Publication Order

Read the novels in this sequence to follow Jacky's journey without missing any of the continuous plot threads:

  • Bloody Jack: Being an Account of the Curious Adventures of Mary 'Jacky' Faber, Ship's Boy (2002)
  • Curse of the Blue Tattoo: Being an Account of the Misadventures of Jacky Faber, Midshipman and Fine Lady (2004)
  • Under the Jolly Roger: Being an Account of the Further Nautical Adventures of Jacky Faber (2005)
  • In the Belly of the Bloodhound: Being an Account of a Cargo of Second-Class Passengers and an Extraordinary Rescue by Ship's Boy Jacky Faber (2006)
  • Mississippi Jack: Being an Account of the Baggage-Busting Boy-Beating, and Boat-Building Adventures of Jacky Faber (2007)
  • My Bonny Light Horseman: Being an Account of the Further Adventures of Jacky Faber, Drafted Girl of the Queen's Own Cavalry (2008)
  • Rapture of the Deep: Being an Account of the Further Adventures of Jacky Faber, Soldier, Sailor, Mermaid, Spy (2009)
  • The Wake of the Lorelei Lee: Being an Account of the Adventures of Jacky Faber on Her Way to Botany Bay (2010)
  • The Mark of the Golden Dragon: Being an Account of the Further Adventures of Jacky Faber, Jewel of the East, Vexation of the West (2011)
  • Viva Jacquelina!: Being an Account of the Further Adventures of Jacky Faber, Over the Alps and Into the Fire (2012)
  • Boston Jacky: Being an Account of the Further Adventures of Jacky Faber, Taking a Care of Business (2013)
  • Wild Rover No More: Being the Last Recorded Adventures of Jacky Faber (2014)

The Acclaimed Audiobook Experience

While reading the physical copies of the series is highly enjoyable, many fans consider the audiobooks to be the definitive way to experience Jacky Faber's adventures. The late narrator Katherine Kellgren performed all twelve audiobooks, receiving numerous accolades, including Audie and Odyssey Honor awards. Kellgren's mastery of regional accents, high-energy voicing, and live singing of traditional sea shanties and ballads brings Jacky's diary entries to life in a way that remains a favorite among audiobook enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked

QWhere should I start reading the Bloody Jack series?

You should start with the first novel, Bloody Jack (2002). The series follows a strict chronological line, and skipping ahead will spoil character fates and major plot developments.

QAre there any spin-offs or companion novels in the series?

No. The 12-book series written by L.A. Meyer covers the entirety of the narrative. There are no official spin-offs, short story collections, or co-authored books.

QWhy are the Bloody Jack audiobooks so highly recommended?

The audiobooks are narrated by the late Katherine Kellgren, who won multiple Audie and Odyssey awards for her performance. She masterfully handles various historical accents and sings the series' traditional sea shanties a cappella.

QIs the Bloody Jack series finished?

Yes, the series is complete. The twelfth book, Wild Rover No More, was published posthumously in late 2014 and serves as the final installment of Jacky Faber's journey.

QWhat is the age recommendation for reading the series?

Bloody Jack is targeted at young adults (ages 12 and up). It features historical settings, maritime adventure, and light romance, along with themes of identity, resilience, and survival.

QAre the Bloody Jack books based on a true story?

No, Mary 'Jacky' Faber is a fictional protagonist. However, author L.A. Meyer heavily researched 19th-century maritime history, the Royal Navy, and the Napoleonic Wars to ensure a historically accurate backdrop.