Ahoy there me mateys!  I received this middle grade eArc from NetGalley in exchange for me honest review . . .

Well me scalawags, I always be ready for a sea yarn and this middle grade is packed with pirates, djinn, shapeshifters, an assassin spy, and other unsavory creatures.  The highlight of the book be Cap'n Cinn who robs spices from the rich to give to the poor.  Because eatin' just hardtack be rough.  I be hankerin' for some of Cap'n Cinn's lemon cake or hot chocolate.  I very much enjoyed the idea of a world where spices are controlled by a guild. 

In this adventure Young Max's parents go missing and his search for them brings him into contact with Cap'n Cinn.  This pirate is not an old bitter salty dog like me.  Cap'n Cinn is trying to save the world and bring deliciousness to the masses.  He won me over.  Max is very naïve and silly but extremely good hearted.  He likes to believe the best of everyone.

I do think the story will please its target audience.  For this older reader, I felt there were too many characters, not enough world building, and a rather convoluted plot.  But if the younger reader focuses on the pirates, shapeshifters, and Cap'n Cinn then this novel should float their boat.  Arrr!