Aubrey-Maturin

Patrick O'Brian, "H.M.S. Surprise"

2008-01-20 10:36; in Adam's Books, Aubrey-Maturin; 56 words

Jack Aubrey gains a new command; Stephen Maturin joins him as ship's surgeon, his career in intelligence temporarily on hold owing to a failure of security. (Of course it's not as simple as that, but...)

I thought the India bits were particularly effective. Good stuff; recommended.

ISBN 0006499171. Search for this book on Wikipedia or isbn.nu.

Patrick O'Brian, "Post Captain"

2006-10-02 23:33; in Adam's Books, Aubrey-Maturin; 63 words

The second book in O'Brian's Napoleonic saga, in which Jack Aubrey and Stephen Maturin seek both love and gainful employment in the British Navy. Beautifully written and very entertaining, just as "Master and Commander" was, with occasional parts of the story bordering on either "Boy's Own" adventure or farce. I'll keep reading; recommended.

ISBN 0006499163. Search for this book on Wikipedia or isbn.nu.

Patrick O'Brian, "Master and Commander"

2005-11-07 16:50; in Adam's Books, Aubrey-Maturin; 86 words

Another Napoleonic historical series -- this time following the exploits of naval captain Jack Aubrey and surgeon Stephen Maturin. The level of (implied) realism is impressive. O'Brian clearly knows his stuff, and his battles are based on historical encounters; there's also a large cast of interesting characters both on- and offshore. I could argue that the ending felt a bit contrived, but I thoroughly enjoyed it regardless, and I'll look forward to reading more of the series.

ISBN 0006499155. Search for this book on Wikipedia or isbn.nu.