This book chronicles the dramatic and often brutal history of piracy along the North American coast during its Golden Age. Eric Jay Dolin, a best-selling author known for his blend of scholarship and drama, explores the period from the late 1600s to the early 1700s, a time when pirates like Blackbeard, Captain Kidd, and Edward Low terrorized the seas. The narrative details the complex relationship between American colonists and pirates, initially showing solidarity against the Crown before shifting to violent opposition. Dolin aims to correct popular misconceptions and present a vivid account of these seafaring outlaws and the precarious nature of colonial life.

Black Flags, Blue Waters has been praised for its engaging narrative, with reviewers noting its ability to blend rigorous scholarship with dramatic storytelling. The book is described as "rumbustious enough for the adventure-hungry" and a "tour de force history." It effectively illustrates the brutality and glamour associated with piracy during America's colonial era, while also providing a nuanced look at the historical context and the evolving relationship between colonists and pirates. The work is recognized for its thorough research and its success in upending common stereotypes about these historical figures.