The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume II: The Kingdom on the Waves

In this second volume of Octavian Nothing's story, the teenaged protagonist joins Lord Dunmore's Ethiopian Regiment during the American Revolution. The Ethiopian Regiment consists of escaped slaves who fight for the British in exchange for their freedom, presenting Octavian with complex choices about loyalty and liberty. The novel follows Octavian's experiences as a soldier through military campaigns, naval battles, and the harsh realities of 18th century warfare. Set primarily in Virginia and along the Atlantic coast, the story unfolds against the backdrop of smallpox outbreaks, food shortages, and the chaotic early years of the Revolutionary War. The narrative takes the form of Octavian's journals and military dispatches, documenting his observations of the war and his relationships with fellow soldiers. His classical education and musical talents set him apart from other members of the Regiment, creating tensions and opportunities as he navigates his new role. This historical novel explores themes of freedom, identity, and the contradictions inherent in the American Revolution - a fight for liberty that excluded enslaved people. Through Octavian's perspective, the story presents the complexity of choosing sides in a conflict where neither party fully recognizes Black humanity.

Readers call this sequel heavier and more complex than Volume I, with deeper historical detail about the American Revolution. Many note it requires concentration to follow the period-accurate 18th century language and naval terminology. Readers appreciate: - Historical accuracy and research depth - Morally complex treatment of liberty vs loyalty - Sophisticated vocabulary and authentic period voice - Fresh perspective on Revolutionary War - Inclusion of often-overlooked Black soldiers' experiences Common criticisms: - Slower pacing than first volume - Dense nautical descriptions slow the narrative - Some find the formal language challenging - Less action than Volume I Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (3,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (50+ reviews) One reader noted: "The naval sections require patience but reward careful reading." Another said: "Not an easy book, but an important perspective on American history that's rarely taught."

The Book of Negroes by Lawrence Hill Chronicles an enslaved woman's journey from Africa through the American Revolution as she aids the British and documents Black Loyalists' experiences.

Someone Knows My Name by Lawrence Hill Follows an African woman's path from slavery to freedom as a British Loyalist during the Revolutionary War through detailed historical records.

Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson Depicts a young enslaved girl's struggle for freedom in Revolutionary-era New York as she becomes a spy for the rebels.

The Pox Party by M.T. Anderson Documents Octavian's early life as part of a scientific experiment in pre-Revolutionary Boston through journals and letters.

Washington and Caesar by Christian Cameron Traces parallel narratives of George Washington and an escaped slave fighting on opposite sides of the Revolutionary War.

🔹 Lord Dunmore's Ethiopian Regiment was one of the first organized Black military units in North America, formed in 1775 after the British governor of Virginia promised freedom to enslaved people who fought for the Crown. 🔹 M. T. Anderson spent over a decade researching 18th-century documents, including letters, scientific papers, and military records, to accurately capture the language and historical details of the period. 🔹 The novel's unique format includes fictional scientific observations, military dispatches, and diary entries that mirror authentic Revolutionary War-era documents. 🔹 During the American Revolution, approximately 100,000 enslaved people escaped to British lines, making it the largest emancipation of African Americans until the Civil War. 🔹 The book's protagonist, Octavian, is partially inspired by historical figures like Boston King, a former slave who fought for the British and later documented his experiences in a memoir.