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Thomas Kydd #13
Betrayal
Cape Colony is proving a tiresome assignment for Thomas Kydd's daring commander-in-chief Commodore South America's Spanish colonies are in a ferment of popular unrest. Rumors of a treasure hoard of Spanish silver spur him to assemble a makeshift invasion fleet and launch a bold attack on the capital of the Viceroyalty of the River Plate in Buenos Aires. Navigating the treacherous bars and mud flats of the river, the British invasion force wins a battle against improbable odds, taking the capital and the silver. But the uprising that promises the end of Spanish rule never arrives and the locals begin to see dark conspiracies behind the invader's actions. Now Kydd's men must face resistance and the betrayal of their closest allies. Can they save themselves and their prize?
352 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2012
100 people are currently reading
449 people want to read
About the author
Julian Stockwin
52 books336 followersJulian Stockwin was sent at the age of fourteen to Indefatigable, a tough sea-training school. He joined the Royal Navy at fifteen. He now lives in Devon with his wife Kathy. Julian has written 24 books to date in the Kydd series of historical adventure fiction, the story of one man's journey from pressed man to admiral in the age of fighting sail, and a non-fiction book, 'Stockwin's Maritime Miscellany.' His latest Kydd series title is THUNDERER. And, he's also published two historical standalone novels, THE SILK TREE, set in the time of Emperor Justinian and THE POWDER OF DEATH, about the quest for the secret of gunpowder.
Series:
* Thomas Kydd
Series:
* Thomas Kydd
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
January 22, 2022
**Should Read as 4.5 Stars!**
Read this book in 2012, and its the 13th volume of the great "Thomas Kydd" series.
In this tale, after the occupation of Cape Colony and its boredom, Thomas Kydd and his commander-in-chief Commodore Popham after hearing rumours about unrest within the South American Spanish colonies, they set immediately sail towards that destination.
With a quick bold attack on the Viceroyalty of the River Plate, Buenos Aires, this British invasion fleet, with Kydd in attendance, sets their sites on the silver hoard that is to be gained in that place.
Winning this battle against the Spanish forces and drive them from Buenos Aires, and so taking the silver, the local population feels betrayed, but the Spanish are never beaten in that region, and even the locals can see and feel all kinds of conspiracies behind the British actions.
In the end the locals will revolt against its liberators, and that will turn in a bloody war with Kydd and his men in the thick of it against a hostile population.
What is to follow is a very captivating naval and land adventure which is brought to us by the author in his own formidable and authentic fashion.
Highly recommended, for this is a great addition to this tremendous series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Very Entertaining Betrayal"!
Read this book in 2012, and its the 13th volume of the great "Thomas Kydd" series.
In this tale, after the occupation of Cape Colony and its boredom, Thomas Kydd and his commander-in-chief Commodore Popham after hearing rumours about unrest within the South American Spanish colonies, they set immediately sail towards that destination.
With a quick bold attack on the Viceroyalty of the River Plate, Buenos Aires, this British invasion fleet, with Kydd in attendance, sets their sites on the silver hoard that is to be gained in that place.
Winning this battle against the Spanish forces and drive them from Buenos Aires, and so taking the silver, the local population feels betrayed, but the Spanish are never beaten in that region, and even the locals can see and feel all kinds of conspiracies behind the British actions.
In the end the locals will revolt against its liberators, and that will turn in a bloody war with Kydd and his men in the thick of it against a hostile population.
What is to follow is a very captivating naval and land adventure which is brought to us by the author in his own formidable and authentic fashion.
Highly recommended, for this is a great addition to this tremendous series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Very Entertaining Betrayal"!
October 14, 2012
This one had too much mud for me. I hope we get back out in the deep water next time.
Read
November 30, 2018I'm amazed that England during the 18th century wasn't compared to the Roman Empire. The country's undeniable need to conquer the world was frightening in its intensity. This was a good read. I wasn't aware that they tried to acquire Argentina and failed.
October 11, 2012
I'll admit from the beginning that, despite this being the 13th Kydd novel, it is only the second that I've read, though I now realise that they are actually quite readable as standalone novels if the reader wishes.
I've recently been heavily devoted to reading ancient through medieval fiction, but I opened 'Betrayal' with enthusiasm. It has been a long time since I read Napoleonic era novels, but I was, to some extent, weaned on Forrester, Dudley Pope, and Alexander Kent. Having now read two of the Kydd novels I have confirmed for myself that Stockwin's protagonist is easily the match for Bolitho, Hornblower or Ramage.
I won't go too much into the specific plot of the book, as usual, to avoid spoilers, but the action begins in Africa, around Cape Town and with a magnificent opening chapter that evokes all the mystery and dangers of darkest Africa, the dangers of the French enemy, and the ingenuity and sheer daring of Kydd and his men. It also nicely introduces (or reintroduces) the main characters for those of us who have had time out from the series. Looking at a long period of excruciating boredom (and more importantly reduced chance of glory or advancement) patrolling the secure cape, Kydd's commander, Popham, sets off on an unauthorized, outrageous and downright dangerous plan to try and subvert Spanish control of South America. Kydd, somewhat reluctantly agrees to join and is dragged into a little known action in history of which I had never even previously heard (thanks, Mr Stockwin, as I learned something new and particulary fascinating here.)
The action picks up very quickly and then sails along (pun intended) throughout the book. Checking the dust jacket I read of Stockwin's history in the navy and realised whence one of the two things that impressed me most came. The author's clearly first-hand and near-encyclopedic knowledge of all things ships and sailing combined with his obvious love of the period show through at every moment in the book without fail, bringing a depth of detail that adds to the read rather than stalling it. The other thing that impressed me most, even above the level of research that clearly went in, was the authentic feel just to the social aspect of the story. The speech is at once familiar and easy to read, and yet seems true to period and deeply atmospheric. The interaction between characters, particularly those of different classes or nationalities is wonderful.
But as in many good long-running series, one other thing worth mentioning is the clear growth of the characters and the ties that bind them together. As I said, I've only read one other Kydd novel before, and that was around six books ago. The result is that I could easily see how much Kydd has grown and changed over the books, while retainging those parts that make him the character people loved from the start. In addition the bond between he and Renzi is a joy to read.
In all, this was an excellent read as a standalone, so I can imagine that series devotees will love it. Stockwin stands up there with the best of Napoleonic and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone.
Well done, Julian. Now I must go back and fill in the blanks.
I've recently been heavily devoted to reading ancient through medieval fiction, but I opened 'Betrayal' with enthusiasm. It has been a long time since I read Napoleonic era novels, but I was, to some extent, weaned on Forrester, Dudley Pope, and Alexander Kent. Having now read two of the Kydd novels I have confirmed for myself that Stockwin's protagonist is easily the match for Bolitho, Hornblower or Ramage.
I won't go too much into the specific plot of the book, as usual, to avoid spoilers, but the action begins in Africa, around Cape Town and with a magnificent opening chapter that evokes all the mystery and dangers of darkest Africa, the dangers of the French enemy, and the ingenuity and sheer daring of Kydd and his men. It also nicely introduces (or reintroduces) the main characters for those of us who have had time out from the series. Looking at a long period of excruciating boredom (and more importantly reduced chance of glory or advancement) patrolling the secure cape, Kydd's commander, Popham, sets off on an unauthorized, outrageous and downright dangerous plan to try and subvert Spanish control of South America. Kydd, somewhat reluctantly agrees to join and is dragged into a little known action in history of which I had never even previously heard (thanks, Mr Stockwin, as I learned something new and particulary fascinating here.)
The action picks up very quickly and then sails along (pun intended) throughout the book. Checking the dust jacket I read of Stockwin's history in the navy and realised whence one of the two things that impressed me most came. The author's clearly first-hand and near-encyclopedic knowledge of all things ships and sailing combined with his obvious love of the period show through at every moment in the book without fail, bringing a depth of detail that adds to the read rather than stalling it. The other thing that impressed me most, even above the level of research that clearly went in, was the authentic feel just to the social aspect of the story. The speech is at once familiar and easy to read, and yet seems true to period and deeply atmospheric. The interaction between characters, particularly those of different classes or nationalities is wonderful.
But as in many good long-running series, one other thing worth mentioning is the clear growth of the characters and the ties that bind them together. As I said, I've only read one other Kydd novel before, and that was around six books ago. The result is that I could easily see how much Kydd has grown and changed over the books, while retainging those parts that make him the character people loved from the start. In addition the bond between he and Renzi is a joy to read.
In all, this was an excellent read as a standalone, so I can imagine that series devotees will love it. Stockwin stands up there with the best of Napoleonic and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone.
Well done, Julian. Now I must go back and fill in the blanks.
August 14, 2016
Onto more British trials at sea in book fourteen. Caribbee
December 22, 2023
Sneaking around the African jungle in the dark of night isn’t the safest way to take the enemy. After all, there are lions and snakes and animals with horns. The water may be more familiar, but unknown dangers lurk there as well. The French ship has chosen her hiding spot well some distance up the Zambezi River where L’Aurore cannot venture. A frontal assault by boats will be a slaughter, but Captain Thomas Kydd is not to be deterred. It’s vital to discover the location of Admiral Maréchal’s squadron and Nicholas Renzi’s intelligence, acquired from locals, is their first lead. Kydd’s plan is fraught with danger and timing will be key.
Later, Kydd learns the risks have been for naught. Maréchal and his ships have returned to France. Of course, that presents Kydd with another dilemma – one that he gives no thought to until after he meets with his commander, Commodore Home Popham. They are far from home and the war, and with everything going smoothly in Cape Town and its environs, the opportunity to distinguish themselves in ways that will gain them honors, riches, and promotions are just about nil. Has Kydd truly gone from working in a wig shop to commanding his own ship only to have his career stymied?
Never fear, Popham isn’t one to sit on laurels. Prior to Trafalgar, an idea was put forth to the prime minister and received his blessing. It involves taking advantage of the unrest in South America to gain new allies and profit from the seizure of the treasure currently going to, when possible, into Napoleon’s coffers to fund the war. Now is the perfect time to implement that amphibious operation and using a page from Nelson’s handbook, Popham intends to have his squadron sweep across the ocean and seize Montevideo and Buenos Aires for the British just as they did when they conquered Cape Town. With Kydd’s help, they should have no trouble gaining the army’s assistance and swaying the other captains over to their way of thinking. There’s only a slight problem; they will be undertaking this venture without proper orders from the Admiralty. Better to take action and ask for forgiveness later. After all, this will be a cakewalk. What can possibly go wrong?
Stockwin is a master at recreating exotic locales that transport readers back to past places and times. Nowhere is this more evident than in Betrayal, the thirteenth Kydd Sea Adventure. Contrasts between Africa and South America make the latter even more menacing, as do revelations about Popham that Renzi shares with Kydd. Equally engaging, at least to anyone who has ever thought of writing a book, is Renzi’s trials and tribulations once he decides to craft the novel that his friend suggests. As with any creative endeavor, taking an idea and turning it into reality isn’t as easy as it appears. In this regard, Renzi’s writing shines a mirror on the dilemmas that Kydd faces. Patriotic fervor is another theme interwoven into this story. Rather than a coin with two sides, this passion can be multi-faceted and involve intrigue as much as treachery. While Kydd spends a fair portion of his time on land in this tale, the contrivances that place him on water are unique and the action, hair-raising. While stories set during the Napoleonic era are many, Stockwin selects lesser-known aspects of it to provide readers with uncommon undertakings where the risks and the rewards are high.
(This review originally appeared at Pirates & Privateers: http://www.cindyvallar.com/Stockwin.h...)
Later, Kydd learns the risks have been for naught. Maréchal and his ships have returned to France. Of course, that presents Kydd with another dilemma – one that he gives no thought to until after he meets with his commander, Commodore Home Popham. They are far from home and the war, and with everything going smoothly in Cape Town and its environs, the opportunity to distinguish themselves in ways that will gain them honors, riches, and promotions are just about nil. Has Kydd truly gone from working in a wig shop to commanding his own ship only to have his career stymied?
Never fear, Popham isn’t one to sit on laurels. Prior to Trafalgar, an idea was put forth to the prime minister and received his blessing. It involves taking advantage of the unrest in South America to gain new allies and profit from the seizure of the treasure currently going to, when possible, into Napoleon’s coffers to fund the war. Now is the perfect time to implement that amphibious operation and using a page from Nelson’s handbook, Popham intends to have his squadron sweep across the ocean and seize Montevideo and Buenos Aires for the British just as they did when they conquered Cape Town. With Kydd’s help, they should have no trouble gaining the army’s assistance and swaying the other captains over to their way of thinking. There’s only a slight problem; they will be undertaking this venture without proper orders from the Admiralty. Better to take action and ask for forgiveness later. After all, this will be a cakewalk. What can possibly go wrong?
Stockwin is a master at recreating exotic locales that transport readers back to past places and times. Nowhere is this more evident than in Betrayal, the thirteenth Kydd Sea Adventure. Contrasts between Africa and South America make the latter even more menacing, as do revelations about Popham that Renzi shares with Kydd. Equally engaging, at least to anyone who has ever thought of writing a book, is Renzi’s trials and tribulations once he decides to craft the novel that his friend suggests. As with any creative endeavor, taking an idea and turning it into reality isn’t as easy as it appears. In this regard, Renzi’s writing shines a mirror on the dilemmas that Kydd faces. Patriotic fervor is another theme interwoven into this story. Rather than a coin with two sides, this passion can be multi-faceted and involve intrigue as much as treachery. While Kydd spends a fair portion of his time on land in this tale, the contrivances that place him on water are unique and the action, hair-raising. While stories set during the Napoleonic era are many, Stockwin selects lesser-known aspects of it to provide readers with uncommon undertakings where the risks and the rewards are high.
(This review originally appeared at Pirates & Privateers: http://www.cindyvallar.com/Stockwin.h...)
October 19, 2020
The Kydd books are always entertaining, with lots of sea-going adventure during the 'Golden Age of Sail'. This one was rather disappointing to me, concerned as it was with the ill-conceived attempt by the British to capture Buenos Aires and open it to free trade (read 'British Trade'), and, not incidentally, to seize a large shipment of silver bullion. The mistakes and treachery were apparent early on in the book, and only got more severe as time went on. The combined forces of small segments of the British navy and army were talked into the raid, and fought valiantly to make it work under impossible odds. Overall, the story was as dispiriting to the reader as it was to the participants, making this the poorest of the series so far.
July 10, 2021
Spoilers ahead:
One big difference between Tom Kydd and Horatio Hornblower is that this book follows very closely a historical event. This book follows very closely the British attack and short occupation of Buenos Aires in 1806.
Stockwin does a pretty good job of weaving Kydd into Sir Home Popham's incredible adventure to the Rio de la Plata. One thing I dislike about it (hence the low rating) is that the whole book is pretty much limited to the actual events. I mean, there's nothing wrong with that and I learned a lot about history but this wasn't what I was reading the series for. I'm also not a big fan of Kydd's friend and sidekick Renzi.
Overall a good historical book.
One big difference between Tom Kydd and Horatio Hornblower is that this book follows very closely a historical event. This book follows very closely the British attack and short occupation of Buenos Aires in 1806.
Stockwin does a pretty good job of weaving Kydd into Sir Home Popham's incredible adventure to the Rio de la Plata. One thing I dislike about it (hence the low rating) is that the whole book is pretty much limited to the actual events. I mean, there's nothing wrong with that and I learned a lot about history but this wasn't what I was reading the series for. I'm also not a big fan of Kydd's friend and sidekick Renzi.
Overall a good historical book.
April 1, 2024
Captain Kydd and the crew of the L’Aurore sail away under orders from Commodore Popham to liberate Buenos Aires from Spanish occupation. With the help of a spy, a ragtag Naval fleet, and a loyal army contingent, they gain a foothold there but then the tables are turned on them. Instead of the people’s support, they find themselves facing a hostile populace and a burgeoning enemy force. Vivid descriptions, Naval lore, regional history, and action mingle in this entertaining tale starring the stalwart hero, Captain Thomas Kydd. It's another rousing installment in this fascinating series that’s highly reminiscent of the classic favorite, Horatio Hornblower.
August 17, 2018
Another interesting tale by Stockwin
As before, Stockwin takes up the action for Kydd and Company in Argentina after the winning of Cape Town. In a modified fictional account of a real situation, Kydd battles his pride, honesty and loyalty while assisting a selfish post captain, Popham, in an effort to turn the tide in South America in Britain’s favor. Kydd does his best, follows his duty to country above all and honors his role as master of his ship through thick and thin in this tale. Well worth the read.
As before, Stockwin takes up the action for Kydd and Company in Argentina after the winning of Cape Town. In a modified fictional account of a real situation, Kydd battles his pride, honesty and loyalty while assisting a selfish post captain, Popham, in an effort to turn the tide in South America in Britain’s favor. Kydd does his best, follows his duty to country above all and honors his role as master of his ship through thick and thin in this tale. Well worth the read.
January 5, 2018
Después del triunfo en Ciudad del Cabo, los ojos del Imperio Británico se fijan en Sudamérica. Debido a las guerras napoleónicas, la metrópoli española no tiene poder para oponerse a una invasión de la armada. La gran cuestión es la respuesta de la población local: los recibirán como libertadores o como nuevos opresores?
April 9, 2018
A good Captain Kydd story. It was a little slow in the beginning but pick up speed some. As with some Julian Stockwin story there are a few that read, in my opinion, slow then others. The as always the next book is filled with page turning adventure. Towards the end of this book Kydd set sail for the north and I new I had to start the next book right away.
March 25, 2019
The story continues with the South African fleet leaving station to pursue a speculative mission in Argentina. A story full of ego, risk, espionage, and of course, Betrayal. This is a good addition to the series. The personal lives of the heroes certainly seem to be on hold. The risk of permanent damage to Kydd's career is very real. Recommend.
August 7, 2020
This is not one of the stronger entries in the series, although it did make me go and look up the history of the British invasion of Argentina in the early 1800's. This sees the intrepid Kydd spending much of the story on land, but continues the strong story telling and character building around Kydd and his shipmates. A good entry in the series, just not one of the best.
June 6, 2024
I kept thinking that Kydd was going to join the army in this one. Very little sea operations in this one as the Commodore takes his squadron from South Africa over to invade Buenos Aires. After taking the city he is made Port Captain and spends time on the river and dealing with intelligence as they attempt to keep the city from the Spanish.
April 20, 2020
I totally love this series but alas, I also recognize "filler" when I see it. This book has more filler than any other Kydd novel I have read. Stockwin must have been moved to a payment system based on the number of pages.
I am slogging through it but, it is a hard struggle.
I am slogging through it but, it is a hard struggle.
July 16, 2019
This is a wonderful series of historical fiction. Amazing adventures of Captain Kydd. A really enjoyable reading experience.
December 1, 2020
Not up the the author’s usual standard
February 21, 2024
A good one.
December 8, 2012
As I mentioned in my review of David Wesley Hill's At Drake's Command, I have a soft spot for nautical adventure tales as they form some of my earliest childhood memories with my dad. Julian Stockwin's Betrayal is another one such, a rousing tale of the high seas and the battle for Buenos Aires in 1806; it fits right in with the tales my dad read to me. Betrayal is the thirteenth tale in Stockwin's series about Thomas Kydd, intrepid sailor and courageous and well-loved leader of his men. Despite of this, it was easily accessible to a reader newly come to this series and Stockwin manages to refer to earlier entries in the series without making the reader feel as if they've missed out on critical information for this story.
Central to the story is Captain Thomas Kydd, captain of the frigate L'Aurore. At the beginning of the book we find him stationed at the Cape of Good Hope, newly conquered by the British and life is settling down to a rather sedate routine. He's introduced as an honourable man, but an ambitious one and languishing in port without the chance to gain distinction for himself and thus advance his career is making him restless. So when his commander, Commodore Popham, comes to him with a bold and not quite legal plan to win themselves glory and treasure and a way out of being stationed at the Cape, it's easy to see why he agrees to take part. While Kydd tries to belay his conscience and ignore any implications that Popham's motives might be anything but honourable, Stockwin slowly has him realise that perhaps Popham isn't everything Kydd believes him to be. This is partly due to Popham's own behaviour and the warnings given by Kydd's best friend and secretary Renzi, but also due to Kydd's disillusion when the invasion goes sour and he loses more and more good men needlessly.
Kydd's relationship with Renzi and the rest of his men was wonderfully portrayed and in fact, the entire portrayal of the sailors was amazingly well done, which shouldn't be surprising given Stockwin's own distinguished career in the Navy. I loved the sailor's salty language and the dialogues peppered with nautical terms, some of which were explained in a glossary, while others had to be understood from their context. It was an honest portrayal of the British Jack Tars, not bowdlerised, but also refraining from the crudeness often associated with sailors of any age. My favourite sailors were Lieutenant Clinton and Stirk, the gunner's mate. They were the two that stood out from the crew and I especially appreciated Clinton's development while they were in action on Buenos Aires.
The one thing that bothered me was the character of Renzi. While he does have some decisive actions in the plot and I liked him as a character, there is an entire story arc about him writing a novel, which while entertaining, didn't really seem to serve any purpose in the story other than to keep him conveniently out from underfoot for large stretches of the narrative. Perhaps the novel will be an element in a future instalment; I hope it will be, because even if the philosophising on the craft of writing was interesting, otherwise it was a giant filler plotline. Other than the aforementioned novel plotline, the story is tightly plotted and moves at a fair clip.
Betrayal was an entertaining read, which also showed me something of history I didn't know. Making Thomas Kydd's acquaintance was a pleasure and one I hope to renew in the future. I'll definitely be getting my dad a copy of the first novel in this series, as he loves a rousing nautical tale. If you like those as well, then Betrayal is definitely a book you'll enjoy.
This book was provided for review by the publisher.
Central to the story is Captain Thomas Kydd, captain of the frigate L'Aurore. At the beginning of the book we find him stationed at the Cape of Good Hope, newly conquered by the British and life is settling down to a rather sedate routine. He's introduced as an honourable man, but an ambitious one and languishing in port without the chance to gain distinction for himself and thus advance his career is making him restless. So when his commander, Commodore Popham, comes to him with a bold and not quite legal plan to win themselves glory and treasure and a way out of being stationed at the Cape, it's easy to see why he agrees to take part. While Kydd tries to belay his conscience and ignore any implications that Popham's motives might be anything but honourable, Stockwin slowly has him realise that perhaps Popham isn't everything Kydd believes him to be. This is partly due to Popham's own behaviour and the warnings given by Kydd's best friend and secretary Renzi, but also due to Kydd's disillusion when the invasion goes sour and he loses more and more good men needlessly.
Kydd's relationship with Renzi and the rest of his men was wonderfully portrayed and in fact, the entire portrayal of the sailors was amazingly well done, which shouldn't be surprising given Stockwin's own distinguished career in the Navy. I loved the sailor's salty language and the dialogues peppered with nautical terms, some of which were explained in a glossary, while others had to be understood from their context. It was an honest portrayal of the British Jack Tars, not bowdlerised, but also refraining from the crudeness often associated with sailors of any age. My favourite sailors were Lieutenant Clinton and Stirk, the gunner's mate. They were the two that stood out from the crew and I especially appreciated Clinton's development while they were in action on Buenos Aires.
The one thing that bothered me was the character of Renzi. While he does have some decisive actions in the plot and I liked him as a character, there is an entire story arc about him writing a novel, which while entertaining, didn't really seem to serve any purpose in the story other than to keep him conveniently out from underfoot for large stretches of the narrative. Perhaps the novel will be an element in a future instalment; I hope it will be, because even if the philosophising on the craft of writing was interesting, otherwise it was a giant filler plotline. Other than the aforementioned novel plotline, the story is tightly plotted and moves at a fair clip.
Betrayal was an entertaining read, which also showed me something of history I didn't know. Making Thomas Kydd's acquaintance was a pleasure and one I hope to renew in the future. I'll definitely be getting my dad a copy of the first novel in this series, as he loves a rousing nautical tale. If you like those as well, then Betrayal is definitely a book you'll enjoy.
This book was provided for review by the publisher.
October 11, 2012
Betrayal is the 13th book in the Kydd series by Julian Stockwin.
The year is 1806 and Captain Kydd was just helped capture and defend the Dutch colony of Cape Town (chronicled in Conquest). With the French driven from the seas, the only thing Kydd can look forward to is protecting trade and being forgotten by the Admiralty on a far flung corner of Empire.
Kydd’s commanding officer, Admiral Popham has other ideas though. With the forces used to capture Cape Town at his disposal, he proposes an assault on the undefended Spanish possessions in South America. Winning over Kydd to his side, Popham believes that all the English have to do is land on the mainland, capture Buenos Aires and the locals will rise up and throw off the yoke of Spanish rule but can a few hundred British soldiers and sailors really capture the greatest prize of Empire?
As the fleet sets sail, Kydd struggles with the decision to abandon his station and follow a man whose motives seems to become more suspect and actions become more underhand the closer they get to their destination.
As the British task force lands on the Spanish Mainland they must deal with the local Spanish troops as well as belligerent locals but the prize is so great that nothing will stop them in their quest.
With no British warships able to navigate the River Plate, Kydd is tasked with with defending the British force with whatever crafts and men he can muster and as the enemy draw closer, Kydd finds himself increasingly under pressure to hold them back. Kydd knows that if they can’t not hold on until reinforcements arrive then they could lose everything they have gained and from being Heroes of Empire they could end up facing a court martial for disobeying orders. Such are the fine margins of high command.
I have been a fan of Julian Stockwin’s books since ‘Kydd’ was released in 2001 but as with any long running series I have found myself struggling to enjoy the last couple of books. In a similar vein to the Sharpe novels you sort of feel that you have read the book before and feel a bit stale. Well I’m happy to report that Betrayal is a real return to form.
This is a cracking story and I think using a little known episode of the Napoleonic wars gives it freshness that has been missing from the last couple of books. One of the joys of the whole series has been seeing Kydd grow from a pressed landman into a full post-Captain and learning the ropes of command as he goes along. In Betrayal he really comes into his own as he commands the ad-hoc naval forces and is tasked with opening up Buenos Aires to trade.
Stockwin captures the dilemmas of men in high command in the age of the sail, months away from political and military chiefs they must make decisions on the spur of the moment that could bring greater glory to the Empire or just as easily see them disgraced and dismissed from service.
I raced though this book and as always Stockwin’s writing style is easy to read and has a nice pace to the story and in all Stockwin’s books the naval details are spot on without being over technical thus slowing the story down. This is a very good book and I highly recommend!
Betrayal is released in October 2012.
The year is 1806 and Captain Kydd was just helped capture and defend the Dutch colony of Cape Town (chronicled in Conquest). With the French driven from the seas, the only thing Kydd can look forward to is protecting trade and being forgotten by the Admiralty on a far flung corner of Empire.
Kydd’s commanding officer, Admiral Popham has other ideas though. With the forces used to capture Cape Town at his disposal, he proposes an assault on the undefended Spanish possessions in South America. Winning over Kydd to his side, Popham believes that all the English have to do is land on the mainland, capture Buenos Aires and the locals will rise up and throw off the yoke of Spanish rule but can a few hundred British soldiers and sailors really capture the greatest prize of Empire?
As the fleet sets sail, Kydd struggles with the decision to abandon his station and follow a man whose motives seems to become more suspect and actions become more underhand the closer they get to their destination.
As the British task force lands on the Spanish Mainland they must deal with the local Spanish troops as well as belligerent locals but the prize is so great that nothing will stop them in their quest.
With no British warships able to navigate the River Plate, Kydd is tasked with with defending the British force with whatever crafts and men he can muster and as the enemy draw closer, Kydd finds himself increasingly under pressure to hold them back. Kydd knows that if they can’t not hold on until reinforcements arrive then they could lose everything they have gained and from being Heroes of Empire they could end up facing a court martial for disobeying orders. Such are the fine margins of high command.
I have been a fan of Julian Stockwin’s books since ‘Kydd’ was released in 2001 but as with any long running series I have found myself struggling to enjoy the last couple of books. In a similar vein to the Sharpe novels you sort of feel that you have read the book before and feel a bit stale. Well I’m happy to report that Betrayal is a real return to form.
This is a cracking story and I think using a little known episode of the Napoleonic wars gives it freshness that has been missing from the last couple of books. One of the joys of the whole series has been seeing Kydd grow from a pressed landman into a full post-Captain and learning the ropes of command as he goes along. In Betrayal he really comes into his own as he commands the ad-hoc naval forces and is tasked with opening up Buenos Aires to trade.
Stockwin captures the dilemmas of men in high command in the age of the sail, months away from political and military chiefs they must make decisions on the spur of the moment that could bring greater glory to the Empire or just as easily see them disgraced and dismissed from service.
I raced though this book and as always Stockwin’s writing style is easy to read and has a nice pace to the story and in all Stockwin’s books the naval details are spot on without being over technical thus slowing the story down. This is a very good book and I highly recommend!
Betrayal is released in October 2012.
November 26, 2012
There are books I try to avoid, and books I have to buy. To my great shame, there are also books which I haven’t read - mainly, in my defence, because I don’t have that much time to read. I have a lot of books to read before I can write my own ones, and for that reason, even though I have a growing pile of books to read when I get time (time? Ye Gods, that is one commodity missing from my life), they’ll all have to wait until I’ve finished my own book. I’m late on my latest deadline.
Yes. I tend to have to pick up books about warfare, about armour, about the history of mental illness and treatment in the fourteenth century, or how dogs were trained to hunt. Exciting books: no time for fiction.
Years ago I used to have more time. In those days there was little more enjoyable, I found, than a chance to sit down with a bottle of deeply naughty whisky (cask strength), light a fire and read the latest Patrick O’Brian. In fact, I would think that he absorbed as many Christmas breaks as MR James and Elliot O’Donnell. I used to love ghost stories, you see.
But all of that lengthy preamble is only to say what a delight it has been to read Julian Stockwin’s latest.
I’ve known Julian from the writing circuit for at least ten years now, I’d guess. I first met him at an author’s day in Tavistock Library, I think, or it could have been a festival in Cornwall - I’m not sure. But I do know that I have been aware of his work for a long time, and it is a matter of huge regret that I have never found the time to immerse myself in his titles.
I will rectify that.
Julian was himself a sailor. He joined the British navy (when we still had one) at the age of fifteen, before going out to join the Royal Australian Navy. He has had experience of the various seas he describes in his books, and that deep knowledge and understanding shows in his writing.
This book is one of a series set in the very early 1800s. After the successful attack on Cape Town, HMS L’Aurore was not enjoying the tiresome duty of sailing up and down the African coast. Her commander, Kydd, and his confidential secretary Renzi are bored.
So when they hear from their commander, Commodore Popham, of unrest in the Spanish colonies, it seems a fair idea to race across the ocean with a small force of ships and soldiers, to make a swift assault on the small city of Buenos Aires. The tales of silver was one incentive, but for British naval officers, the potential for glory while simultaneously hurting the Spanish is just too tempting to resist.
But when they manage to reach the city, and learn that the promised uprising fails to materialise, they realise that they are too small a force, and that the population is growing more and more hostile to the British forces.
This is a brilliant read. From the first page I was hooked and (apologies to my own editor) I was forced to set aside my own work. It’s firmly grounded on the characters and the locations depicted, but also in the actual history of the time.
A superb, rip-roaring read in the best traditions of Hornblower and Aubrey and Maturin.
Yes. I tend to have to pick up books about warfare, about armour, about the history of mental illness and treatment in the fourteenth century, or how dogs were trained to hunt. Exciting books: no time for fiction.
Years ago I used to have more time. In those days there was little more enjoyable, I found, than a chance to sit down with a bottle of deeply naughty whisky (cask strength), light a fire and read the latest Patrick O’Brian. In fact, I would think that he absorbed as many Christmas breaks as MR James and Elliot O’Donnell. I used to love ghost stories, you see.
But all of that lengthy preamble is only to say what a delight it has been to read Julian Stockwin’s latest.
I’ve known Julian from the writing circuit for at least ten years now, I’d guess. I first met him at an author’s day in Tavistock Library, I think, or it could have been a festival in Cornwall - I’m not sure. But I do know that I have been aware of his work for a long time, and it is a matter of huge regret that I have never found the time to immerse myself in his titles.
I will rectify that.
Julian was himself a sailor. He joined the British navy (when we still had one) at the age of fifteen, before going out to join the Royal Australian Navy. He has had experience of the various seas he describes in his books, and that deep knowledge and understanding shows in his writing.
This book is one of a series set in the very early 1800s. After the successful attack on Cape Town, HMS L’Aurore was not enjoying the tiresome duty of sailing up and down the African coast. Her commander, Kydd, and his confidential secretary Renzi are bored.
So when they hear from their commander, Commodore Popham, of unrest in the Spanish colonies, it seems a fair idea to race across the ocean with a small force of ships and soldiers, to make a swift assault on the small city of Buenos Aires. The tales of silver was one incentive, but for British naval officers, the potential for glory while simultaneously hurting the Spanish is just too tempting to resist.
But when they manage to reach the city, and learn that the promised uprising fails to materialise, they realise that they are too small a force, and that the population is growing more and more hostile to the British forces.
This is a brilliant read. From the first page I was hooked and (apologies to my own editor) I was forced to set aside my own work. It’s firmly grounded on the characters and the locations depicted, but also in the actual history of the time.
A superb, rip-roaring read in the best traditions of Hornblower and Aubrey and Maturin.
November 24, 2013
This review also appears on Joe Follansbee's blog.
Most authors of nautical fiction from the Napoleonic Era place their characters somewhere in the Northern Hemisphere, usually the Atlantic or the Mediterranean. That’s where most of the historical action was, of course. By contrast, the Southern Hemisphere, apart from the Cape of Good Hope, seems devoid of action. Julian Stockwin has found an exception to this rule, and he’s successfully exploited it in Betrayal, the 13th book of his series on the fictional exploits of Captain Thomas Kydd.
As commander of the frigate L’Aurore on station at Cape Colony, Kydd finds himself under Commodore Sir Home Popham, an able naval administrator and barely competent combat officer with a tendency to bend the rules a little too far, especially if there’s something to go in his pocket. Popham sees a chance east across the South Atlantic at the Spanish colony of Buenos Aires, located on the Rio de la Plata, a broad estuary known as the River Plate to the British. After hearing rumors of a discontented populace ready to throw off Spanish rule, the commodore hatches a scheme to invade the region with 1,400 soldiers and a few ships. Kydd, though skeptical, signs on, partly out of deference to his boss and partly for the chance to expand his country’s growing empire. Kydd’s best friend and sometime spy, Nicholas Renzi, familiar with Popham’s reputation as an opportunist, sees the plan as nothing more than a dangerous adventure.
The historical episode is real: In 1806, Popham invaded the colony, and the results were nothing less than a fiasco. I can’t help but think of the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, when Americans were promised that the Iraqi people would welcome soldiers and marines as liberators. Exactly the opposite happened, and Popham experienced the same turn of events in Buenos Aires, as Stockwin tells the tale.
Stockwin is at his best when he places Kydd and the other British officers and soldiers in the thick of the action. But he stumbles with his local characters; a woman especially comes off too much like the “hot-blooded Latina” stereotype. And the ending of Betrayal is unsatisfying. The true ending of the story is in the Author’s Note, in which Stockwin details how a fiasco turned into an unmitigated disaster. One wonders what the fictional Kydd really thought of the unprincipled Popham, something Stockwin promises we’ll learn in a future Kydd tale.
Most authors of nautical fiction from the Napoleonic Era place their characters somewhere in the Northern Hemisphere, usually the Atlantic or the Mediterranean. That’s where most of the historical action was, of course. By contrast, the Southern Hemisphere, apart from the Cape of Good Hope, seems devoid of action. Julian Stockwin has found an exception to this rule, and he’s successfully exploited it in Betrayal, the 13th book of his series on the fictional exploits of Captain Thomas Kydd.
As commander of the frigate L’Aurore on station at Cape Colony, Kydd finds himself under Commodore Sir Home Popham, an able naval administrator and barely competent combat officer with a tendency to bend the rules a little too far, especially if there’s something to go in his pocket. Popham sees a chance east across the South Atlantic at the Spanish colony of Buenos Aires, located on the Rio de la Plata, a broad estuary known as the River Plate to the British. After hearing rumors of a discontented populace ready to throw off Spanish rule, the commodore hatches a scheme to invade the region with 1,400 soldiers and a few ships. Kydd, though skeptical, signs on, partly out of deference to his boss and partly for the chance to expand his country’s growing empire. Kydd’s best friend and sometime spy, Nicholas Renzi, familiar with Popham’s reputation as an opportunist, sees the plan as nothing more than a dangerous adventure.
The historical episode is real: In 1806, Popham invaded the colony, and the results were nothing less than a fiasco. I can’t help but think of the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, when Americans were promised that the Iraqi people would welcome soldiers and marines as liberators. Exactly the opposite happened, and Popham experienced the same turn of events in Buenos Aires, as Stockwin tells the tale.
Stockwin is at his best when he places Kydd and the other British officers and soldiers in the thick of the action. But he stumbles with his local characters; a woman especially comes off too much like the “hot-blooded Latina” stereotype. And the ending of Betrayal is unsatisfying. The true ending of the story is in the Author’s Note, in which Stockwin details how a fiasco turned into an unmitigated disaster. One wonders what the fictional Kydd really thought of the unprincipled Popham, something Stockwin promises we’ll learn in a future Kydd tale.
March 11, 2014
It has been a year since I finished reading my last Stockwin, but it has been six months since I started this one. This time out Thomas Kydd is to go on a grand adventure and invade again in the name of King and Country. The Target, Buenos Aires, which tale has reached Cape Town that it is wide open for the taking. And Hope Popham intrigues with Kydd for the chance to do this.
Historically, the authors notes tell us more about Admiral Popham who was very interesting, and also of the attempt. The execution though of this particular tome, covering a distance perhaps greater than any of the other books in the series, with action spread over a length of time that has little to do with the action of ships of the line, left me bored.
Where Mr. Stockwin had not done that as yet, always keeping me interested, in this outing I could not get through the material, hoping until the last sixth, to just get through to the end of the chapter. I was not connected to the story, and I think it does have to do with the subject matter. The Conquest of South America whilst the Napoleonic War was occurring was not interesting. At least not from a Naval perspective. Perhaps if we had seen the tale directly through the eyes of the Army, rather than forcing Kydd to become attached to the Army, we might have experienced this better. More of a tale to be given us by Bernard Cornwell and Sharpe then by Julian Stockwin.
In all, we know that Stockwin and his hero Kydd is exceptional and for my money a better tale than O'Brian. In this outing we did not see the secondary Nicholas Renzi too often, as he has been more foolish than sensible the last few outings. This may not be a read again, even should the entire sequence be tackled, but it does continue to add to the entirety of Kydd's CV, and there are periods in everyone's life where they can not always be a success, or be heroes. This may be one of those times for Kydd.
Historically, the authors notes tell us more about Admiral Popham who was very interesting, and also of the attempt. The execution though of this particular tome, covering a distance perhaps greater than any of the other books in the series, with action spread over a length of time that has little to do with the action of ships of the line, left me bored.
Where Mr. Stockwin had not done that as yet, always keeping me interested, in this outing I could not get through the material, hoping until the last sixth, to just get through to the end of the chapter. I was not connected to the story, and I think it does have to do with the subject matter. The Conquest of South America whilst the Napoleonic War was occurring was not interesting. At least not from a Naval perspective. Perhaps if we had seen the tale directly through the eyes of the Army, rather than forcing Kydd to become attached to the Army, we might have experienced this better. More of a tale to be given us by Bernard Cornwell and Sharpe then by Julian Stockwin.
In all, we know that Stockwin and his hero Kydd is exceptional and for my money a better tale than O'Brian. In this outing we did not see the secondary Nicholas Renzi too often, as he has been more foolish than sensible the last few outings. This may not be a read again, even should the entire sequence be tackled, but it does continue to add to the entirety of Kydd's CV, and there are periods in everyone's life where they can not always be a success, or be heroes. This may be one of those times for Kydd.
October 2, 2013
I had a hard time getting into this book.
One of the reasons is, that after an action sequence in chapter one, the story basically grinds to halt for close to a hundred pages. It does pick up once the set up for the attack in South America is accomplished, but I found the maneuvering to get to that point more tedious than intriguing.
The other problem I had was the language. I suspect its period accurate, which did give the book a nice historical feel. However, between that and the technical ship terminology, I spent a lot of time looking words up to get more than the generally gist of the conversation. There is a glossary in the back of the book, but its woefully inadequate. If you're lucky enough to find the word you're looking for included, there's a good chance the definition will require you to look up several words and discover they aren't in the glossary. ("Spar under the bowsprit to take the block to stretch the foresail to windward" didn't really tell what a boomkin is.)
I also couldn't quite swallow that someone who's never read any novels, prior to deciding to write one, would instantly be extremely skilled at it once he had a revelation about writing, but that's a minor point.
Once things got going, the story moved along nicely, but the language kept me from really getting involved.
One of the reasons is, that after an action sequence in chapter one, the story basically grinds to halt for close to a hundred pages. It does pick up once the set up for the attack in South America is accomplished, but I found the maneuvering to get to that point more tedious than intriguing.
The other problem I had was the language. I suspect its period accurate, which did give the book a nice historical feel. However, between that and the technical ship terminology, I spent a lot of time looking words up to get more than the generally gist of the conversation. There is a glossary in the back of the book, but its woefully inadequate. If you're lucky enough to find the word you're looking for included, there's a good chance the definition will require you to look up several words and discover they aren't in the glossary. ("Spar under the bowsprit to take the block to stretch the foresail to windward" didn't really tell what a boomkin is.)
I also couldn't quite swallow that someone who's never read any novels, prior to deciding to write one, would instantly be extremely skilled at it once he had a revelation about writing, but that's a minor point.
Once things got going, the story moved along nicely, but the language kept me from really getting involved.
June 3, 2014
I'm really not sure of what all to say about this particular book, as it was not my cup of tea. I love to read and I especially love exposing myself to a wide range of writings and topics. However, when it cam to reading Betrayal, I was absolutely frustrated at times. I caught myself frequently looking at the definitions section of the book to keep myself familiarized with some of the words being used. Even though I found myself frustrated at times with not knowing what exactly was going on, I did find the book to be very well written. This would be an excellent story for anyone that enjoys reading more of a war/pirate type of book. As for me, it may not have been my cup of tea, but I can proudly say that I stuck with it and saw it to the end and wish other readers happy reading of, what I shall call, an interesting book.
August 16, 2013
A good old fashioned seafaring adventure. Lots of action and not overloaded with technical jargon to make the reader potentially lose interest. It even comes with a glossary explaining various seafaring terms for the uninitiated! At first I wasn't so sure about this but after a while the characters started to come alive for me. A little disappointing abrupt ending - perhaps the story could have continued, but it seems that the main character was drifting (excuse the pun) out of the action at this point. I rated this probably at 3.5 but not given that option above.
November 6, 2013
I have been very busy reading lately. Goodreads has supplied me with man "assignments" that I feel obligated to ensure I read and rate. I do not do spoilers. I read Alexander Kent, Dewey Lambdin, Dudley Pope, etc... This series is good. I can truly say that this series is just as interesting as the Bolitho series. Enjoy.
February 24, 2013
Not my favorite book of the series. Saw a review earlier that said "too much mud". Think I agree. Hope the next book deals more with life at sea. Still… a very good book. I love the detail that Mr. Stockwin puts in all his books.
October 24, 2012
Another first rate instalment to this excellent series. The attention to detail and historical asides ( such as how to clean purge a frigate of vermin) add colour. The action scenes exciting. I like Kydd as a character.
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