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Richard Bolitho #4
Kanonenfutter. Leutnant Bolithos Handstreich in Rio.
1774 : Bolitho newly appointed a third lieutenant for the 28-gun frigate Destiny at Plymouth. From midshipman's berth to wardroom, he is fortunate, especially when most of the fleet is laid up. His promotion is tinged by personal sadness. But his new captain points out that Bolitho's loyalty is first to the Captain, then the ship Destiny, and third His Britannic Majesty - in that order.
Destiny is sent on a secret mission far south to Rio and then to the Caribbean. She and her company face the hazards of conspiracy, treason and piracy. Bolitho has to learn how to accept his new responsibilities as a King's officer.
Destiny is sent on a secret mission far south to Rio and then to the Caribbean. She and her company face the hazards of conspiracy, treason and piracy. Bolitho has to learn how to accept his new responsibilities as a King's officer.
270 pages, Paperback
First published December 31, 1979
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564 people want to read
About the author
Alexander Kent
239 books202 followersA pseudonym used by Douglas Reeman.
Series:
* Richard Bolitho
* Adam Bolitho
Series:
* Richard Bolitho
* Adam Bolitho
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
June 24, 2023
“Something destined rather than planned.” (3.5 stars)
I read much of the Richard Bolitho series in my late teens. I’ve decided to revisit it, and thus far the experience has been mostly good. In STAND INTO DANGER newly promoted 3rd Lieutenant Bolitho is assigned to the HMS frigate “Destiny” on a 18th century version of a secret mission. In pursuit of an English ex pat, and some lost Spanish gold, it is fast paced, and to the point.
Some highlights of this text include the introduction of the character of Stockdale, who I remembered from my original reading of the series years ago. Also of note in this text is Bolitho’s first love, and the loss of his virginity, which interestingly enough I also remembered from my original reading, although I’m sure I saw it through much less romantic eyes now than I did then. Ha!
A quibble is that stylistically the novel is sometimes too abrupt and on point. Not a lot of development of an idea, and occasionally it is jarring.
Quotes:
• “Life is God’s greatest gift. To risk it is one thing, to throw it away is to cheat.”
• “Perhaps fate had always intended they should end thus?”
• “But I must not think of them any more. Not as people or friends, until it is over.”
• “Get them in a boat, no matter how small, and they felt they could manage.”
• “There was still tomorrow. Like the horizon, they never reached it.”
STAND INTO DANGER allowed me to exist on an 18th century sailing ship, and it kept my attention while I read it at a quick rate. In fact, I’ve already picked up the next installment in the series. That says it all, I guess.
I read much of the Richard Bolitho series in my late teens. I’ve decided to revisit it, and thus far the experience has been mostly good. In STAND INTO DANGER newly promoted 3rd Lieutenant Bolitho is assigned to the HMS frigate “Destiny” on a 18th century version of a secret mission. In pursuit of an English ex pat, and some lost Spanish gold, it is fast paced, and to the point.
Some highlights of this text include the introduction of the character of Stockdale, who I remembered from my original reading of the series years ago. Also of note in this text is Bolitho’s first love, and the loss of his virginity, which interestingly enough I also remembered from my original reading, although I’m sure I saw it through much less romantic eyes now than I did then. Ha!
A quibble is that stylistically the novel is sometimes too abrupt and on point. Not a lot of development of an idea, and occasionally it is jarring.
Quotes:
• “Life is God’s greatest gift. To risk it is one thing, to throw it away is to cheat.”
• “Perhaps fate had always intended they should end thus?”
• “But I must not think of them any more. Not as people or friends, until it is over.”
• “Get them in a boat, no matter how small, and they felt they could manage.”
• “There was still tomorrow. Like the horizon, they never reached it.”
STAND INTO DANGER allowed me to exist on an 18th century sailing ship, and it kept my attention while I read it at a quick rate. In fact, I’ve already picked up the next installment in the series. That says it all, I guess.
February 22, 2014
Treasure, Treachery and Forbidden Love - 3 Stars
Stand into Danger is the fourth book is the series about Richard Bolitho, a young officer in the Royal Navy. Although it was not the fourth written by Alexander Kent, it is fourth based on the internal chronology.
Plot summary
Richard once again finds himself aboard a new and much larger ship, Destiny. Having recently completed his officer's exam, he finds himself in the unfamiliar position as third Third Lieutenant aboard the ship. He is quite young for the position and looking to build credibility. As soon as full crew is obtained, the ship sets said for South America for a purpose that is unknown to the crew. It is quickly revealed that the trip is searching for a treasure lost and to settle old scores. There are some battles at sea, some battles on land, some politics and some subterfuge. In the midst of this there is some serious injuries and forbidden love.
The Good
An Oldie but a Goodie
This Classic series by Alexander Kent is considered by to be some of the best Historical Naval Fiction written and for good reason. The setting is well crafted and very detailed. While I couldn't point aft, find the poop deck or explain a jib boom, the nautical detail is both extensive and intriguing. It serves to provide a feeling of authenticity.
The Character of Richard Bolitho is likeable and well developed. The reader is following along with his career and we are learning of his failings, success, pain and achievements. Many of these historical military novels use well tread plot points. A fleeting love interest, a unduly cruel and/or incompetent leader, a poorly treated and/or misunderstood protagonist who is put in an unfortunate position. While some of these appear in this volume (fleeting love interest) much of the standard fare is not present.
The Bad
While the detail and characters are well drawn, the story progression drags the book down. It is as if the story is told in snapshots. We follow the story arc by viewing distinct moments in time without seeing what came between the pictures. I found the story to be rather chaotic in its presentation. As a result, the relatively slim volume took me much longer to complete than in should have. Many times throughout the story I had to stop and ask myself what exactly it was that was happening. In fact, by the end of the book, I wasn't sure if they had accomplished what they had set out to do. This is a major failing for any book and dragged the rating down significantly.
Final Thoughts
While I was on the fence about this volume, I will certainly read on at some point. Unlike more recent novels, this story has a sense of innocence and is suitable for many ages. Had I been aware of this series in my early teens, I imagine I would have quickly devoured each and every book in the series. Despite it's shortcoming, the series is entertaining and exciting and certainly worth a look.
Content Advisories
It is difficult to find commentary on the sex/violence/language content of book if you are interested. I make an effort to give you the information so you can make an informed decision before reading. *Disclaimer* I do not take note or count the occurrences of adult language as I read. I am simply giving approximations.
Scale 1 - Lowest 5 - Highest
Sex - 2.5
There is some kissing and mildly lustful thoughts. Once character has feeling for a married woman and the feelings are returned. There is a singular episode where sex is implied.
Language - 2
There are a few minor obscenities. I believe it would be acceptable for early teens and up.
Violence - 3
There are multiple battles and a significant number of people are killed. The scenes are mildly graphic. There is a threatened hanging and some fist fights. While violence is one of the themes, the violence is mild by more modern standards. I believe it appropriate for a Young Adult reader.
Posted to The Literary Lawyer
Stand into Danger is the fourth book is the series about Richard Bolitho, a young officer in the Royal Navy. Although it was not the fourth written by Alexander Kent, it is fourth based on the internal chronology.
Plot summary
Richard once again finds himself aboard a new and much larger ship, Destiny. Having recently completed his officer's exam, he finds himself in the unfamiliar position as third Third Lieutenant aboard the ship. He is quite young for the position and looking to build credibility. As soon as full crew is obtained, the ship sets said for South America for a purpose that is unknown to the crew. It is quickly revealed that the trip is searching for a treasure lost and to settle old scores. There are some battles at sea, some battles on land, some politics and some subterfuge. In the midst of this there is some serious injuries and forbidden love.
The Good
An Oldie but a Goodie
This Classic series by Alexander Kent is considered by to be some of the best Historical Naval Fiction written and for good reason. The setting is well crafted and very detailed. While I couldn't point aft, find the poop deck or explain a jib boom, the nautical detail is both extensive and intriguing. It serves to provide a feeling of authenticity.
The Character of Richard Bolitho is likeable and well developed. The reader is following along with his career and we are learning of his failings, success, pain and achievements. Many of these historical military novels use well tread plot points. A fleeting love interest, a unduly cruel and/or incompetent leader, a poorly treated and/or misunderstood protagonist who is put in an unfortunate position. While some of these appear in this volume (fleeting love interest) much of the standard fare is not present.
The Bad
While the detail and characters are well drawn, the story progression drags the book down. It is as if the story is told in snapshots. We follow the story arc by viewing distinct moments in time without seeing what came between the pictures. I found the story to be rather chaotic in its presentation. As a result, the relatively slim volume took me much longer to complete than in should have. Many times throughout the story I had to stop and ask myself what exactly it was that was happening. In fact, by the end of the book, I wasn't sure if they had accomplished what they had set out to do. This is a major failing for any book and dragged the rating down significantly.
Final Thoughts
While I was on the fence about this volume, I will certainly read on at some point. Unlike more recent novels, this story has a sense of innocence and is suitable for many ages. Had I been aware of this series in my early teens, I imagine I would have quickly devoured each and every book in the series. Despite it's shortcoming, the series is entertaining and exciting and certainly worth a look.
Content Advisories
It is difficult to find commentary on the sex/violence/language content of book if you are interested. I make an effort to give you the information so you can make an informed decision before reading. *Disclaimer* I do not take note or count the occurrences of adult language as I read. I am simply giving approximations.
Scale 1 - Lowest 5 - Highest
Sex - 2.5
There is some kissing and mildly lustful thoughts. Once character has feeling for a married woman and the feelings are returned. There is a singular episode where sex is implied.
Language - 2
There are a few minor obscenities. I believe it would be acceptable for early teens and up.
Violence - 3
There are multiple battles and a significant number of people are killed. The scenes are mildly graphic. There is a threatened hanging and some fist fights. While violence is one of the themes, the violence is mild by more modern standards. I believe it appropriate for a Young Adult reader.
Posted to The Literary Lawyer
August 17, 2016
It is 1774 and Richard Bolitho is a newly appointed third lieutenant on a frigate dispatched on a secret mission.
This book was truly fascinating in the way that it was historical fiction but written in the eighties, the writing style is practically fiction itself. Despite this, I think the story telling has not dated badly and the story itself is sufficiently well written to stand the test of time and evolving writing styles.
I loved the minute descriptions of 'his majesties navy' the daily navel life aboard the different ships, the ships themselves and the insight into the political statue of the time. The battles were exciting, detailed and convincing, the leading man, Richard Bolitho seems the perfect hero for the story; new at his job so both conscientious and inclined to look at every detail.
This is the first of these novels I read and from what I can see it lends itself very adequately to being read out f sequence. Incidentally, the ending, which has been crisitised by others seemed like the perfect ending to me, but, not spoilers :)
This book was truly fascinating in the way that it was historical fiction but written in the eighties, the writing style is practically fiction itself. Despite this, I think the story telling has not dated badly and the story itself is sufficiently well written to stand the test of time and evolving writing styles.
I loved the minute descriptions of 'his majesties navy' the daily navel life aboard the different ships, the ships themselves and the insight into the political statue of the time. The battles were exciting, detailed and convincing, the leading man, Richard Bolitho seems the perfect hero for the story; new at his job so both conscientious and inclined to look at every detail.
This is the first of these novels I read and from what I can see it lends itself very adequately to being read out f sequence. Incidentally, the ending, which has been crisitised by others seemed like the perfect ending to me, but, not spoilers :)
July 13, 2025
Great adventure novel with plenty of action, plot twists and some great characters.
Set in the 1770s aboard the Royal Navy warships in a time of peace, this novel takes us on a voyage to the Caribbean and South Atlantic in pursuit of pirates and lost treasure. There are also hints at the intrigues, plots and discontent that were part of the build up to the American Revolution, but these are rather in the background. Tracking down the pirates is the main action. And what action it is.
This book is part of the Bolitho series by Alexander Kent. Unlike some novels that are part of a series, this on successfully stands alone. I know from reading later books in the series that Stockdale goes on to be a major character in later books, but here he is a minor character only and none the worse for that.
I'm no sailor, but the nautical aspects of this story seem to me to be well explained. Tacking, luffing, weather gauge and such like all feature, sometimes as plot devices, but I never felt overwhelmed with technical details.
A great adventure novel for holiday reading. Get a copy and treasure it.
Set in the 1770s aboard the Royal Navy warships in a time of peace, this novel takes us on a voyage to the Caribbean and South Atlantic in pursuit of pirates and lost treasure. There are also hints at the intrigues, plots and discontent that were part of the build up to the American Revolution, but these are rather in the background. Tracking down the pirates is the main action. And what action it is.
This book is part of the Bolitho series by Alexander Kent. Unlike some novels that are part of a series, this on successfully stands alone. I know from reading later books in the series that Stockdale goes on to be a major character in later books, but here he is a minor character only and none the worse for that.
I'm no sailor, but the nautical aspects of this story seem to me to be well explained. Tacking, luffing, weather gauge and such like all feature, sometimes as plot devices, but I never felt overwhelmed with technical details.
A great adventure novel for holiday reading. Get a copy and treasure it.
August 29, 2025
A new lieutenant is commissioned on a ship on a secret mission. None of the crew knows what the mission is, but pretty soon, members are being assassinated, and there are pirates after the vessel.
Very exciting.
Very exciting.
July 17, 2016
C.S. Forester's Hornblower series spawned a whole genre of historical novels about the British navy in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. Patrick O'Brian's Aubrey-Maturin novels are probably the most literarily accomplished, but there are plenty of entertaining practitioners. Alexander Kent's series about Richard Bolitho, who (much like Hornblower) rises from midshipman to admiral in the course of a dozen or more books, is pretty typical.
This is number two in the series; in 1774 Bolitho has just been promoted from midshipman to lieutenant and joins a frigate at Plymouth under a dashing captain and a hard-nosed first lieutenant determined to put the junior officer to the test. The frigate is off to the new world on a secret mission involving a shipload of Spanish treasure hidden somewhere in the Caribbean; there are interludes of intrigue in Madeira and Rio de Janeiro (including an entirely implausible sentimental entanglement for young Bolitho) before we get to the showdown with the pirates on the Spanish Main. I didn't buy the love story, which is intrusive and rings false, but there's plenty of maritime lore and swashbuckling, good fun if you're a fan of the genre.
This is number two in the series; in 1774 Bolitho has just been promoted from midshipman to lieutenant and joins a frigate at Plymouth under a dashing captain and a hard-nosed first lieutenant determined to put the junior officer to the test. The frigate is off to the new world on a secret mission involving a shipload of Spanish treasure hidden somewhere in the Caribbean; there are interludes of intrigue in Madeira and Rio de Janeiro (including an entirely implausible sentimental entanglement for young Bolitho) before we get to the showdown with the pirates on the Spanish Main. I didn't buy the love story, which is intrusive and rings false, but there's plenty of maritime lore and swashbuckling, good fun if you're a fan of the genre.
June 30, 2018
Another summer reread that is as satisfying as the first time.
I first read the Bolitho novels about 10 years ago, and rereading them now brings me back to my childhood reading the Horatio Hornblower series. The Bolitho novels would be a great addition to any library that has the Hornblower books.
I first read the Bolitho novels about 10 years ago, and rereading them now brings me back to my childhood reading the Horatio Hornblower series. The Bolitho novels would be a great addition to any library that has the Hornblower books.
off-tbr-and-into-wpb
March 6, 2014F:\bookies\history\a kent
The year is 1774 and Bolitho is now a newly appointed third lieutenant joining the 28-gun frigate Destiny at Plymouth.
It has been two years since I read the first instalment but I do remember liking it - wonder if it will be easy to slide back into the story...
The year is 1774 and Bolitho is now a newly appointed third lieutenant joining the 28-gun frigate Destiny at Plymouth.
It has been two years since I read the first instalment but I do remember liking it - wonder if it will be easy to slide back into the story...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2021
I'm reading the Richard Bolitho (RB) books in chronological order and this is the 4th book in the series and the first full length book.
Spoilers below:
RB is freshly commissioned as lieutenant and he is the 3rd and most junior in the Destiny a 28 gun frigate captained by Dumaresq whose father served with RB's father. Dumaresq and the Destiny are charged to look for a Spanish treasure ship that was captured by a British privateer (Garrick) many years ago and hopefully recover some of the treasure. (Based on a true event, look up Commodore Anson).
They first stop at the Portuguese island Madeira off the coast of western Africa where the captain's clerk is mysterious murdered while on shore. They then sail for Rio de Janeiro but are shadowed by a brig. Dumaresq captures the brig (Heloise) by laying down fake stern lights in the launch and then circling back in the moonless night.
They look for more information at Rio de Janeiro but only appears to alert Egmont, an ex-British shipboard surgeon who had served with Dumaresq's father. Egmont then slips off to warn Gerrick, who is the one who allegedly captured the treasure ship. The brig Heloise leaves first and comes across Egmont's ship (Rosario) which is being attacked by 2 schooners. Heloise goes into action but is sunk. Her survivors climb aboard the Rosario and fights off the 2 schooners. Destiny finally appears and they go to St. Kitts (called St. Christopher in the book).
The acting governor at St. Kitts proves to be unhelpful and actually tries to put obstacles in Dumaresq's way. He apparently even supplies hints to a Spanish 44 frigate there, which is supposedly on the same mission to recover the gold. RB's love interest supplies the name of the island where Garrick has his lair. Both the Spanish ship and the Destiny head to the lair at Fougeaux Island (which I've been unable in find, so it's probably a made up island).
The Spanish frigate attacks first but strikes and is captured after being pounded by shore based heated shot guns. Dumaresq then lands two parties which destroys two schooners. What's left of the pirate fleet of small ships together with the Spanish frigate comes out. After a bruising toe to toe fight the Destiny sinks the frigate together with the remains of the treasure which had been put on board. The Destiny goes back to England for a refit. RB goes back home for a rest but finds out his mother is dead and he already has admiralty orders for his next deployment.
This is a long book; there is a lot of action and a lot happens besides. I like the book because the writing is easy to read. However as with some of the other RB books, some of the events are hard to understand because Kent doesn't do a great job of explaining it. There's also a bit of mystery in the book like a whodunit as Dumaresq searches for clues of the treasure but Kent fails to capitalize on it; I just don't think he's good enough a writer to weave it in.
I also like it because Kent spends a lot of time building up his characters. There are a lot of them, both the rank and file and the officers. Most of them are the hearty type of tar though!
There are two things I don't like about this book. The first and foremost is the romance which is frankly forced, contrived and ludicrous. Both RB and his paramour Aurora fall deeply in love with each other in an instant, despite very little interaction before and during their "romance". And at my ripe old age, I fail to see what the 19 year old RB has that is attractive to the 29 year old Aurora. At best it's shallow infatuation with the first young man she comes across, at worst it's grooming a younger man.
The second is the character of Stockdale. RB first encounters him as a dim/idiot itinerant boxer on a recruiting drive and saves him from his handler. Within a short time Stockdale becomes a confident and assured intelligent leader who is soon promoted and is devoted to RB. That is hard to believe and in actuality Stockdale just fulfills the role of the dedicated assistant whose role is to save the main character, which he soon does. I don't particularly like these characters because they are a form of deus ex machina, just there to save the story.
There is a bit of hero worship but not as bad as Ramage. At least we can see that Bolitho is always concerned about his men and is constantly asking about them or making sure his underlings are ok. I mean, these things don't have to be so obvious in the writing. Make the readers feel it; making the characters say it out loud is just bad writing. One thing I do like about Bolitho is that he's intelligent and can often solve problems or suggest good ideas. This is one thing Hornblower was also very good at but none of the other clones.
This book was written in 1979 so I'm a bit more forgiving. Overall it's a good read with the exceptions of the things I didn't like about it. I know it's a good book when I want to see the characters again. OK, on to the next book!
Spoilers below:
RB is freshly commissioned as lieutenant and he is the 3rd and most junior in the Destiny a 28 gun frigate captained by Dumaresq whose father served with RB's father. Dumaresq and the Destiny are charged to look for a Spanish treasure ship that was captured by a British privateer (Garrick) many years ago and hopefully recover some of the treasure. (Based on a true event, look up Commodore Anson).
They first stop at the Portuguese island Madeira off the coast of western Africa where the captain's clerk is mysterious murdered while on shore. They then sail for Rio de Janeiro but are shadowed by a brig. Dumaresq captures the brig (Heloise) by laying down fake stern lights in the launch and then circling back in the moonless night.
They look for more information at Rio de Janeiro but only appears to alert Egmont, an ex-British shipboard surgeon who had served with Dumaresq's father. Egmont then slips off to warn Gerrick, who is the one who allegedly captured the treasure ship. The brig Heloise leaves first and comes across Egmont's ship (Rosario) which is being attacked by 2 schooners. Heloise goes into action but is sunk. Her survivors climb aboard the Rosario and fights off the 2 schooners. Destiny finally appears and they go to St. Kitts (called St. Christopher in the book).
The acting governor at St. Kitts proves to be unhelpful and actually tries to put obstacles in Dumaresq's way. He apparently even supplies hints to a Spanish 44 frigate there, which is supposedly on the same mission to recover the gold. RB's love interest supplies the name of the island where Garrick has his lair. Both the Spanish ship and the Destiny head to the lair at Fougeaux Island (which I've been unable in find, so it's probably a made up island).
The Spanish frigate attacks first but strikes and is captured after being pounded by shore based heated shot guns. Dumaresq then lands two parties which destroys two schooners. What's left of the pirate fleet of small ships together with the Spanish frigate comes out. After a bruising toe to toe fight the Destiny sinks the frigate together with the remains of the treasure which had been put on board. The Destiny goes back to England for a refit. RB goes back home for a rest but finds out his mother is dead and he already has admiralty orders for his next deployment.
This is a long book; there is a lot of action and a lot happens besides. I like the book because the writing is easy to read. However as with some of the other RB books, some of the events are hard to understand because Kent doesn't do a great job of explaining it. There's also a bit of mystery in the book like a whodunit as Dumaresq searches for clues of the treasure but Kent fails to capitalize on it; I just don't think he's good enough a writer to weave it in.
I also like it because Kent spends a lot of time building up his characters. There are a lot of them, both the rank and file and the officers. Most of them are the hearty type of tar though!
There are two things I don't like about this book. The first and foremost is the romance which is frankly forced, contrived and ludicrous. Both RB and his paramour Aurora fall deeply in love with each other in an instant, despite very little interaction before and during their "romance". And at my ripe old age, I fail to see what the 19 year old RB has that is attractive to the 29 year old Aurora. At best it's shallow infatuation with the first young man she comes across, at worst it's grooming a younger man.
The second is the character of Stockdale. RB first encounters him as a dim/idiot itinerant boxer on a recruiting drive and saves him from his handler. Within a short time Stockdale becomes a confident and assured intelligent leader who is soon promoted and is devoted to RB. That is hard to believe and in actuality Stockdale just fulfills the role of the dedicated assistant whose role is to save the main character, which he soon does. I don't particularly like these characters because they are a form of deus ex machina, just there to save the story.
There is a bit of hero worship but not as bad as Ramage. At least we can see that Bolitho is always concerned about his men and is constantly asking about them or making sure his underlings are ok. I mean, these things don't have to be so obvious in the writing. Make the readers feel it; making the characters say it out loud is just bad writing. One thing I do like about Bolitho is that he's intelligent and can often solve problems or suggest good ideas. This is one thing Hornblower was also very good at but none of the other clones.
This book was written in 1979 so I'm a bit more forgiving. Overall it's a good read with the exceptions of the things I didn't like about it. I know it's a good book when I want to see the characters again. OK, on to the next book!
August 10, 2021
This interesting book covers one of the earliest adventures (fourth) of Richard Bolitho in the Royal Navy. The war with revolutionary France has not yet started, however he is newly promoted to Third Lieutenant in a smallish frigate charged with recovering Spanish gold from thirty odd years ago. The Destiny is under a Captain who seems overwhelmingly rigid and determined to recover the lost bounty as fast as possible regardless of the hardships faced by the officers and crew.
Bolitho learns his new responsibilities as he makes mistakes and learns some hard lessons regarding managing a crew and his fellow officers and midshipmen. He also learns where to put his loyalty: his captain, his ship and his Britannic Majesty. A crewman, one of Bolitho’s fellow travellers by name of Stockdale, was introduced in this book. He will accompany Bolitho over a number of books,
The story moves along nicely as it is discovered that the missing bounty is in the hands of a previous pirate. This person has used some of the wealth to uplift his station and buy positions and influence. He now holds positions of power in far away places and operates navies and armies of his own. Just coming to grips with “Sir Garrick” costs the Destiny battles, lives and more time than the captain would like. These battles have given Bolitho the opportunity to show a little creativity and stretch his orders to reach better conclusions than was ever expected.
The main battle is fought with many of the Destiny’s crew fighting independently from her in two battle groups. Their mission is to destroy shore batteries that can destroy Destiny. Bolitho leads one group, but when he gets to the pirate’s lair, he sees additional armament that Destiny is not aware of. This changes the entire battle and puts Bolitho and his team right in the middle of everything.
There is a messy love story that is not really believable. It is unfortunately necessary to the plot, but I do not think it is enough to entice many female readers. Nor is it particularly interesting to male readers. I found it just an annoyance.
This was a good story, well told. Four stars.
Bolitho learns his new responsibilities as he makes mistakes and learns some hard lessons regarding managing a crew and his fellow officers and midshipmen. He also learns where to put his loyalty: his captain, his ship and his Britannic Majesty. A crewman, one of Bolitho’s fellow travellers by name of Stockdale, was introduced in this book. He will accompany Bolitho over a number of books,
The story moves along nicely as it is discovered that the missing bounty is in the hands of a previous pirate. This person has used some of the wealth to uplift his station and buy positions and influence. He now holds positions of power in far away places and operates navies and armies of his own. Just coming to grips with “Sir Garrick” costs the Destiny battles, lives and more time than the captain would like. These battles have given Bolitho the opportunity to show a little creativity and stretch his orders to reach better conclusions than was ever expected.
The main battle is fought with many of the Destiny’s crew fighting independently from her in two battle groups. Their mission is to destroy shore batteries that can destroy Destiny. Bolitho leads one group, but when he gets to the pirate’s lair, he sees additional armament that Destiny is not aware of. This changes the entire battle and puts Bolitho and his team right in the middle of everything.
There is a messy love story that is not really believable. It is unfortunately necessary to the plot, but I do not think it is enough to entice many female readers. Nor is it particularly interesting to male readers. I found it just an annoyance.
This was a good story, well told. Four stars.
December 14, 2024
One thing that struck me when I looked up this series to see if I was going to check it out is that the books are not written in chronological order.. the 1st written was with Richard as a Captain (instead of the usual starting as a Midshipman and working up) with alot of the books before that filled in later... even going forward from there there are gaps taht are skipped and later filled in.
If I didn't know otherwise, I would have thought this was the first one written, but the author sure doesn't hold back.. there is a TON of stuff packed in this book... a hunt for lost gold... a mysterious woman.., a hunt for supplies, and the invasion of a small caribbean outlaw fortress.
One wonders what happens for an encore! This was definitely a step up from the 'Midshipman' books... the longer page count gives a chance to have real characters in the crew, not just names and types... though it seem each ship only gets on book, so I wonder if we'll see any of them again,
The author isn't shy about killing people off either.. Richard has sure seen his share of things already! And that would be my criticism of the book... the main character is awfully perfect, even when other people prop him up he gets all the credit and his praise of his men just makes him more amazing. I get it, its his book and all, but he should have SOMETHING wrong with him. Sure, he had a bit of woman trouble in this book, but other than some mooning he was darn near flawless.
I suspect the next book will be American Revolution related (and the Americans will be the bad guys!) so should be interesting!
If I didn't know otherwise, I would have thought this was the first one written, but the author sure doesn't hold back.. there is a TON of stuff packed in this book... a hunt for lost gold... a mysterious woman.., a hunt for supplies, and the invasion of a small caribbean outlaw fortress.
One wonders what happens for an encore! This was definitely a step up from the 'Midshipman' books... the longer page count gives a chance to have real characters in the crew, not just names and types... though it seem each ship only gets on book, so I wonder if we'll see any of them again,
The author isn't shy about killing people off either.. Richard has sure seen his share of things already! And that would be my criticism of the book... the main character is awfully perfect, even when other people prop him up he gets all the credit and his praise of his men just makes him more amazing. I get it, its his book and all, but he should have SOMETHING wrong with him. Sure, he had a bit of woman trouble in this book, but other than some mooning he was darn near flawless.
I suspect the next book will be American Revolution related (and the Americans will be the bad guys!) so should be interesting!
February 6, 2023
I had read all the Aubrey/Maturin books ages ago and then discovered The Golden Ocean recently which renewed my enjoyment of naval adventures. So when I saw Alexander Kent's books I decided to try them to see if they were as good as reviewers said they were. Well, I'm glad I did; The world and vocabulary of the tall ships felt like putting on a comfortable garment I had not worn for some time!
Perhaps the element which is least well done is the thwarted romance between Bolitho and Egmont's wife. The strength of the characters comes form the interaction and psychology between the main officers, the relationship and devotion of young midshipmen and seamen towards their superiors.
The subtle stratagems of the Captain to regain the Treasure which the arch villain pirate Garrick had taken are wonderful. The "Lord and Master" as his officers call him in awe, not only knows how to sail his ship to best advantage, but he also inspires absolute loyalty from his officers.
I shall certainly read more from this series. It is very exciting.
Perhaps the element which is least well done is the thwarted romance between Bolitho and Egmont's wife. The strength of the characters comes form the interaction and psychology between the main officers, the relationship and devotion of young midshipmen and seamen towards their superiors.
The subtle stratagems of the Captain to regain the Treasure which the arch villain pirate Garrick had taken are wonderful. The "Lord and Master" as his officers call him in awe, not only knows how to sail his ship to best advantage, but he also inspires absolute loyalty from his officers.
I shall certainly read more from this series. It is very exciting.
June 12, 2017
Bolitho's first assignment as lieutenant finds him on a frigate under the driven, energetic, and cunning Captain Dumaresq-- at 28, one of the youngest in the fleet. Outwardly tasked to chase down and recover an infamous privateer turned pirate and the absconded booty from a vanished Spanish galleon. And the underlying retribution for the demise of Dumaresq's father that was indirectly caused by those actions of the pirate and his cohorts.
Meanwhile, Bolitho has his first (?) true love and the inevitable heartbreak of love denied, i.e. … two ships passing in the night …-esque.
3.5 Stars -- would have been a full four stars save for the unnecessary Bolitho family sadness emphasised in the epilogue.
Meanwhile, Bolitho has his first (?) true love and the inevitable heartbreak of love denied, i.e. … two ships passing in the night …-esque.
3.5 Stars -- would have been a full four stars save for the unnecessary Bolitho family sadness emphasised in the epilogue.
March 18, 2026
I enjoy books of this genre in general. This one struck me as plenty exciting but a little too forced, as if the author was trying to give Bolitho a bunch of experiences in a hurry. At times, it seemed rather Perils-of-Pauline-ish.
This book was written after a number of others which were set later in time, so it was a case of filling in some of the backstory. I take it that Stockdale is a continuing character; this is the book where he is introduced. It is also one in which he pulls off one heroic feat after another, which beggars belief somewhat.
It's a good book, but it's not the best of this type of genre I've read.
This book was written after a number of others which were set later in time, so it was a case of filling in some of the backstory. I take it that Stockdale is a continuing character; this is the book where he is introduced. It is also one in which he pulls off one heroic feat after another, which beggars belief somewhat.
It's a good book, but it's not the best of this type of genre I've read.
October 2, 2024
A gripping read, Alexander Kent ( Douglas Reeman) has written a great book, nicely balanced with characterisation and plot. It is thoroughly detailed, the hint of romance is just that, it doesn't detract from the story. I listened to it on audiobok. Michael Jayston did a great job and brought the characters to life. I would endorse this book to anyone who wants to read or even write adventure novels.
February 28, 2021
The plots and settings of Kent's books are mostly unknown to me. While I do have memories of movies with the sailing ships I would like some labeled drawings of ships. The story moved along and I will read more. Did not think the love interest was realistic, although H assures me that it is, at least in men's fantasies. H also said to read the "first" book where there are illustrations.
April 6, 2022
It's not Hornblower, but it's nearly Hornblower, so I'll take it. This says it's book 4, but actually book 2 is the only available form of books 1-3, so there's that. It's not the most interesting story but does set the series up very well. Basically another coming of age story of the young lieutenant and the captain and all.
December 8, 2023
This is a half-decent Bolitho book. It still pales by comparison to Patrick O'Brian, but it's an exciting wooden ships adventure with a slightly less skeletal plot than the execrable earlier books (in series order.) It's still all a little easy, especially the love affair, but at least it's fun to read.
March 26, 2024
Stand into Danger.
What a great read, most enjoyable. Great action scenes and the writing is so good you feel as though you are living with the hero. Loved every page and it makes you wonder how our ancestors lived such lives and survived. These men were indeed heroes of their time.
What a great read, most enjoyable. Great action scenes and the writing is so good you feel as though you are living with the hero. Loved every page and it makes you wonder how our ancestors lived such lives and survived. These men were indeed heroes of their time.
March 4, 2026
Since last July, I have read all of Pat OBrians books, all of Hornblower, all of Richard Sharpe and am now on book three of Bolitho. I really liked the Characters in O''Brian, the doctor and Aubry. As for graphic action you can't beat Sharpe.
Hornblower was good reading. Bolitho is as well. Fascinated with the British Army and Navy in the lat 1700's and early 1800's.
All these books are a fun read. Good Characters. Good stories.
Asa Stamps
Hornblower was good reading. Bolitho is as well. Fascinated with the British Army and Navy in the lat 1700's and early 1800's.
All these books are a fun read. Good Characters. Good stories.
Asa Stamps
November 22, 2017
I have read the entire Aubrey/Maturin series by Patrick O'Brien twice over and loved them. I hoped to find a similar series set in the days of tall ships and clashing broadsides. I have found it. The style is different and the setting is unique. I think I shall enjoy diving into this literary sea.
June 22, 2019
The 4th of the Bolitho books, chronologically, finds him a newly minted 3rd Lieutenant aboard a frigate headed on a top secret mission to the Caribbean. There he finds himself fraught with danger as they confront pirates and the uneasy going on in the region. Good read.
October 22, 2021
Another cracking Bolitho adventure
I've read the Bolitho series years ago and thoroughly enjoyed them then,now getting as.much pleasure reading them again. I'm a great fan of the Hornblower novels and these are just as gpod
I've read the Bolitho series years ago and thoroughly enjoyed them then,now getting as.much pleasure reading them again. I'm a great fan of the Hornblower novels and these are just as gpod
September 3, 2017
Reasonable book. A couple of the plot elements were a little cliche, however he executes them reasonably well. Does a pretty good job of developing the main characters in the book.
August 20, 2018
Great adventure for any sea saga under sail fan!
October 8, 2018
Just as brilliant as when I first read it when I was about 14, many years ago.
May 22, 2019
Es un tipo de lectura bastante encasillada, pero muy apta para el que le gusten las aventuras navales
October 3, 2019
A pleasure reading this with accurate nautical elements and the reality of the times clearly communicated without blurring the characters. I have to get the whole set now ha ha.
January 8, 2020
B: Swashbuckling brain candy; a four day book (3 if I didn’t have toe work). Pirates, the girl dies, and the hero, Richard Bolitho moves up as others die.
August 20, 2020
Great adventure story, beautifully told. Loses a star for the ‘romantic’ subplot
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