This is an excellent book about the exploits of a courageous Royal Navy officer fighting the French in the late 18th century.
Apart from relating the exciting exploits of the protagonist, Captain Duncan, the author has written an incredibly interesting and detailed account of life aboard ship, highlighting the roles of the various crew members and the deep traditions of the navy - some of which carry on until today.
Kent Schwendy has an in-depth knowledge about the tactics used in fighting a sailing ship of the period, whilst avoiding intense fire from enemy broadsides. Every crewmember had a key role in maintaining the ship, and ensuring that their individual battle skills were honed to perfection.
I now know the origin of the word 'Pusser', often used to describe 'Pusser's Rum'!
A fabulous book that I cannot recommend highly enough. Move over Hornblower, you now have a serious competitor!

This is the first book in a series (based on the epilogue) about Captain Joseph Duncan. I appreciate that it takes place a little bit earlier, in 1795, rather than a lot of British /Napoleon naval fiction. Joseph is 25 years old. During a battle, his captain is injured and since there's no one else, Joseph takes over. This action starts him down the path of getting command of his own ship.

I'm also happy that he has a love interest in Lillian, an admiral's daughter. Joseph is very likeable even when he becomes a captain (!!) and he seems seems very real and down to earth. I'll be interested to see more of his journey.

Thank you to Black Rose Writing for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.