Reddit mentions of Nelson's Blood: The Story of Naval Rum (Bluejacket Books)

Not an audio book, but one that was recommended to me a few years ago. It’s called Nelson’s Blood: The Story of Naval Rum.

So Admiral Nelson was revered by his crew. According to lore, he died at sea and his crew wanted him to have a proper burial. So they preserved him in a barrel of rum until they reached England, then drank the rum from the barrel. There’s a popular cocktail in the Caribbean called Nelson’s Blood, which is named for the story. I was fascinated by that and picked up this book as a result.

While that account is likely bullshit, this book gives an excellent account of the history of rum rations in the British Royal Navy — and how the cutting of those rations led some to defect and join spice crews. This inspired the interpretation of pirates we see in popular culture.

Fascinating book with a lot of great anecdotal history. I was a podcaster for a while and have considered producing an audiobook version for my friends who don’t like to read print. Highly suggested if you’re into pirates.

Nelson's Blood: The Story of Naval Rum (Bluejacket Books) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1557506663/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_tv9RCb0GQAQ9Z