This book starts with an overview of pre-voyage stuff that jumps around a bit in time - governor Columbus arrested and returned in chains to Spain; Columbus asking both Portugal and Spain to sponsor his first expedition; other expeditions (some launched by the Spanish sovereigns to avoid giving Columbus too much profit), etc. This portion is interesting and brings out the major players, even if it is a bit hard to follow.

The second section dives in to the fourth voyage and covers it in great detail. I missed the earlier what came before or after style here. Notably missing - Portugal, specifically King João II - such a nemesis in the first section of the book.

The book concludes in a rush, giving almost no detail of the final years of Christopher Columbus. A brief history of some of the other players is given. A solid 3½ stars.