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Merriman Chronicles #1
A Certain Threat
With French Revolutionary agents travelling freely but secretly between Ireland and England and war with France inevitable, the English government of Mr Pitt is desperately anxious to uncover any plots between Irish rebels and the French.
Lieutenant James Merriman with his ship, the sloop Aphrodite, is ordered to the Irish Sea to assist the principal Treasury agent Mr. Grahame in this work. Merriman is plunged headlong into the world of espionage and when Grahame is seriously wounded it falls to Merriman to carry on the investigation.
Young James Merriman must keep all his wits about him to foil these plans especially when his adversary is revealed to be an exceptional French agent Henri Moreau who hopes that by helping the Irish to throw off the English yoke, France will be able to use Irish ports from which to attack England.
Lieutenant James Merriman with his ship, the sloop Aphrodite, is ordered to the Irish Sea to assist the principal Treasury agent Mr. Grahame in this work. Merriman is plunged headlong into the world of espionage and when Grahame is seriously wounded it falls to Merriman to carry on the investigation.
Young James Merriman must keep all his wits about him to foil these plans especially when his adversary is revealed to be an exceptional French agent Henri Moreau who hopes that by helping the Irish to throw off the English yoke, France will be able to use Irish ports from which to attack England.
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First published December 18, 2012
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About the author
Roger Burnage
14 books32 followersRoger Burnage had an eventful life that ultimately led him to pursue his passion for writing. Born and raised in the village of Lymm, Warrington, Cheshire, United Kingdom, he embarked on a journey of adventure and self-discovery.
Roger's life took an intriguing turn when he served in the Royal Air Force (RAF) during his national service. He was stationed in Ceylon, which is now known as Sri Lanka, where he worked as a radio mechanic, handling large transmitters.
After his release from the RAF, Roger went on to work as a draughtsman at Vickers in Manchester. Through dedication and hard work, he eventually climbed the ranks to become a sales engineer. His job involved traveling abroad to places like Scandinavia and India, which exposed him to new cultures and experiences.
It was during this period that Roger Burnage stumbled upon the Hornblower novels by C. S. Forester. The captivating tales of naval adventures ignited a spark of interest in the historical fiction genre within him
Eventually, Roger settled in North Wales, where he focused on building a business and raising a family. Throughout his professional and personal life, the desire to write for himself never waned. However, it wasn't until retirement that he finally had the time and opportunity to pursue his dream of becoming an author.
Despite facing initial challenges and enduring multiple rejections from publishers and agents, Roger persevered. He refused to give up on his writing aspirations. Even when he underwent open-heart surgery and had an operation for a brain haemorrhage, he continued to work diligently on his craft. Typing away with only two fingers for months on end, he crafted "The Merriman Chronicles."
In 2012, with the support of his youngest son, Robin, Roger self-published his debut novel, "A Certain Threat," on Amazon KDP, making it available in both paperback and Kindle formats. His determination and talent began to bear fruit, as his fan base grew, and book sales remained strong.
Despite facing health challenges, Roger's creativity and passion for writing remained steadfast. He had many ideas for the future of "The Merriman Chronicles" series and left several unfinished manuscripts at various stages of development
Unfortunately, Roger Burnage's life journey came to an end in December 2015, following a short illness. However, his legacy lives on through his writing, and the adventures of The Merriman family will be continued.
Roger's life took an intriguing turn when he served in the Royal Air Force (RAF) during his national service. He was stationed in Ceylon, which is now known as Sri Lanka, where he worked as a radio mechanic, handling large transmitters.
After his release from the RAF, Roger went on to work as a draughtsman at Vickers in Manchester. Through dedication and hard work, he eventually climbed the ranks to become a sales engineer. His job involved traveling abroad to places like Scandinavia and India, which exposed him to new cultures and experiences.
It was during this period that Roger Burnage stumbled upon the Hornblower novels by C. S. Forester. The captivating tales of naval adventures ignited a spark of interest in the historical fiction genre within him
Eventually, Roger settled in North Wales, where he focused on building a business and raising a family. Throughout his professional and personal life, the desire to write for himself never waned. However, it wasn't until retirement that he finally had the time and opportunity to pursue his dream of becoming an author.
Despite facing initial challenges and enduring multiple rejections from publishers and agents, Roger persevered. He refused to give up on his writing aspirations. Even when he underwent open-heart surgery and had an operation for a brain haemorrhage, he continued to work diligently on his craft. Typing away with only two fingers for months on end, he crafted "The Merriman Chronicles."
In 2012, with the support of his youngest son, Robin, Roger self-published his debut novel, "A Certain Threat," on Amazon KDP, making it available in both paperback and Kindle formats. His determination and talent began to bear fruit, as his fan base grew, and book sales remained strong.
Despite facing health challenges, Roger's creativity and passion for writing remained steadfast. He had many ideas for the future of "The Merriman Chronicles" series and left several unfinished manuscripts at various stages of development
Unfortunately, Roger Burnage's life journey came to an end in December 2015, following a short illness. However, his legacy lives on through his writing, and the adventures of The Merriman family will be continued.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 17, 2023
"In the spring of 1998, workmen demolishing an old nursing home in the country to the north-west of Chester, discovered bundles of old papers concealed behind a bricked up fireplace."
There is a lot that is conventional in Burnage’s tale of British naval adventures. And that isn’t bad because the author gets the details right. This book is about Lt. James Merriman.
"“A toast to our returning hero, may he bring more honour to our name and end up as an admiral.” “But Father, I’m no hero” protested Merriman. “Not what I hear and read” retorted the elder Merriman, “We hear about it all eventually and I have the gazette posted to me regularly. As far back as the Battle of the Saintes your mettle was quite clearly revealed in Admiral Rodney’s despatch when he commended your actions; in a footnote I know, but that you came to his attention did no harm to your career I can tell you, especially as you were still only a midshipman.”"
The time is 1792, and France is still processing their Revolution. "“Remember gentlemen, that whilst we are not actively at war with France yet, I know that we most likely will be in the near future. Therefore we are engaged in a quiet war, some may say a bizarre war, but all for the benefit of our country."
"“The French,” repeated Merriman, “What have they got to do with this? We aren’t at war now.” “Probably nothing, but we all know that you can’t trust the French. I have it on good authority that French agents used to land in Ireland and then slip over to England during the recent war and they are at it again, I’ll be bound. I agree that they are very busy cutting off people’s heads at present, but there’ll be war with France again before long. You mark my words!”"
There are an adequate selection of tidbits that show what were the concerns of Britain during this period. "“This is critical to our security, not only in the Channel but also on the sea routes to India because of the Dutch possessions at the Cape of Good Hope and Ceylon. As long as Belgium was held by Austria under Habsburg rule it was an ideal situation to prevent French expansion to the north. This country cannot tolerate any further French interference"
The story starts out with a rousing clash with pirates and it has the kind of details that show off the author’s knowledge of ships and seamanship. "The new cordage had to be checked regularly for stretching and any slack taken up, but care had to be taken not to over-tighten it."
"“Well, you need some clothes other than your uniform if you are to stay ashore for some time James, and Mr Osgood is an excellent tailor. He’ll have you fitted out as a country gentleman in no time, with breeches, shirts, coats and everything else you need, and I suppose you’ll want some of these dammed trousers which are becoming fashionable nowadays.”"
"In the late 18th Century, Chester was a bustling city of some fourteen to fifteen thousand people, well known for the quality of the products produced by its clockmakers, pewterers, cutlers and silversmiths and famous for the ‘Rows’ which had existed from medieval days, consisting of two rows of shops, one above the other. The upper row was set back with a walkway over the lower row. From that upper walkway people could look down upon the crowds in the street below. There were delivery boys, street traders ringing bells and shouting to attract custom, servants on errands, apprentices rubbing shoulders with ostlers and stable hands and here and there the inevitable painted whore trying to elicit business, to entice clients into some ramshackle, flea ridden boarding house down one of the innumerable vile and filthy alleys behind the better properties lining the street. There were people window shopping, gossiping in groups or simply strolling about showing off their new fashions. Moving amongst them would be the inevitable pickpockets and street urchins"
There is enough time spent ashore to either enhance or annoy those who are looking for a battle at sea tale. Life at the turn of the 19th century is described in much detail.
"With time to spare he strolled up the street, pausing to look in Mr. Taylor’s music shop where apparently one could buy a harpsichord for eighteen guineas, a pianoforte for twenty four guineas, guitars, violins, violincellos and all manner of wind instruments."
"He was amused by some of the curious items advertised in the pharmacies, “Try Dr. Steer’s Apodeldoc for the Cure of Chilblains, Rheumatism and Lumbago” announced one. “Devonshire Tooth Tincture, Relieves Toothache and Prevents Decaying Teeth from Becoming Worse. Restores the Colour and Sweetens the Breath. Two Shillings and Ninepence a Bottle” declared another. More disconcertingly others promised certain cures for venereal disease, among them “Dr. Arnold’s Pills” and one with the resounding title of “Abbe Blondell’s Grand Chymical Specific.” Merriman smiled to himself and moved on."
This volume does not resolve all the political and romantic conflicts but it comes to a satisfactory pause after a well-described battle at sea.
[The sea battles are too extensive to quote but I wanted to leave you with a sense of Burnage's style in describing conflict so here is the following: "“Monsieur Moreau, I believe,” he shouted above the noise. “Oui Capitaine, and I believe you are the man responsible for ruining all my plans,” replied Moreau, “On guard Monsieur.” He immediately attacked Merriman and within the space of a few clashes of their blades Merriman knew he was facing a superior swordsman and he was pressed further and further backwards until he felt the ship’s rail at his back. “My bird Captain, if you permit.” The voice was St James’ as he smoothly interposed his sword and parried a cut to Merriman’s head. Moreau stepped back. “Ha! The redcoat who killed my Lieutenant. I wanted to meet you.”"
3.5
There is a lot that is conventional in Burnage’s tale of British naval adventures. And that isn’t bad because the author gets the details right. This book is about Lt. James Merriman.
"“A toast to our returning hero, may he bring more honour to our name and end up as an admiral.” “But Father, I’m no hero” protested Merriman. “Not what I hear and read” retorted the elder Merriman, “We hear about it all eventually and I have the gazette posted to me regularly. As far back as the Battle of the Saintes your mettle was quite clearly revealed in Admiral Rodney’s despatch when he commended your actions; in a footnote I know, but that you came to his attention did no harm to your career I can tell you, especially as you were still only a midshipman.”"
The time is 1792, and France is still processing their Revolution. "“Remember gentlemen, that whilst we are not actively at war with France yet, I know that we most likely will be in the near future. Therefore we are engaged in a quiet war, some may say a bizarre war, but all for the benefit of our country."
"“The French,” repeated Merriman, “What have they got to do with this? We aren’t at war now.” “Probably nothing, but we all know that you can’t trust the French. I have it on good authority that French agents used to land in Ireland and then slip over to England during the recent war and they are at it again, I’ll be bound. I agree that they are very busy cutting off people’s heads at present, but there’ll be war with France again before long. You mark my words!”"
There are an adequate selection of tidbits that show what were the concerns of Britain during this period. "“This is critical to our security, not only in the Channel but also on the sea routes to India because of the Dutch possessions at the Cape of Good Hope and Ceylon. As long as Belgium was held by Austria under Habsburg rule it was an ideal situation to prevent French expansion to the north. This country cannot tolerate any further French interference"
The story starts out with a rousing clash with pirates and it has the kind of details that show off the author’s knowledge of ships and seamanship. "The new cordage had to be checked regularly for stretching and any slack taken up, but care had to be taken not to over-tighten it."
"“Well, you need some clothes other than your uniform if you are to stay ashore for some time James, and Mr Osgood is an excellent tailor. He’ll have you fitted out as a country gentleman in no time, with breeches, shirts, coats and everything else you need, and I suppose you’ll want some of these dammed trousers which are becoming fashionable nowadays.”"
"In the late 18th Century, Chester was a bustling city of some fourteen to fifteen thousand people, well known for the quality of the products produced by its clockmakers, pewterers, cutlers and silversmiths and famous for the ‘Rows’ which had existed from medieval days, consisting of two rows of shops, one above the other. The upper row was set back with a walkway over the lower row. From that upper walkway people could look down upon the crowds in the street below. There were delivery boys, street traders ringing bells and shouting to attract custom, servants on errands, apprentices rubbing shoulders with ostlers and stable hands and here and there the inevitable painted whore trying to elicit business, to entice clients into some ramshackle, flea ridden boarding house down one of the innumerable vile and filthy alleys behind the better properties lining the street. There were people window shopping, gossiping in groups or simply strolling about showing off their new fashions. Moving amongst them would be the inevitable pickpockets and street urchins"
There is enough time spent ashore to either enhance or annoy those who are looking for a battle at sea tale. Life at the turn of the 19th century is described in much detail.
"With time to spare he strolled up the street, pausing to look in Mr. Taylor’s music shop where apparently one could buy a harpsichord for eighteen guineas, a pianoforte for twenty four guineas, guitars, violins, violincellos and all manner of wind instruments."
"He was amused by some of the curious items advertised in the pharmacies, “Try Dr. Steer’s Apodeldoc for the Cure of Chilblains, Rheumatism and Lumbago” announced one. “Devonshire Tooth Tincture, Relieves Toothache and Prevents Decaying Teeth from Becoming Worse. Restores the Colour and Sweetens the Breath. Two Shillings and Ninepence a Bottle” declared another. More disconcertingly others promised certain cures for venereal disease, among them “Dr. Arnold’s Pills” and one with the resounding title of “Abbe Blondell’s Grand Chymical Specific.” Merriman smiled to himself and moved on."
This volume does not resolve all the political and romantic conflicts but it comes to a satisfactory pause after a well-described battle at sea.
[The sea battles are too extensive to quote but I wanted to leave you with a sense of Burnage's style in describing conflict so here is the following: "“Monsieur Moreau, I believe,” he shouted above the noise. “Oui Capitaine, and I believe you are the man responsible for ruining all my plans,” replied Moreau, “On guard Monsieur.” He immediately attacked Merriman and within the space of a few clashes of their blades Merriman knew he was facing a superior swordsman and he was pressed further and further backwards until he felt the ship’s rail at his back. “My bird Captain, if you permit.” The voice was St James’ as he smoothly interposed his sword and parried a cut to Merriman’s head. Moreau stepped back. “Ha! The redcoat who killed my Lieutenant. I wanted to meet you.”"
3.5
January 15, 2013
A Certain Threat opens with Lieutenant James Merriman coaching to his parents’ home in Cheshire. The brig he commanded had been wrecked in a storm after a fierce action to save a disabled Indiaman from Algerine corsairs off West Africa and Merriman is worried about his career. Can he expect an appointment from the admiralty when England is at peace with France (which, in 1792, is in the throes of revolution) and his nagging wound won’t heal?
Fortunately he finds a powerful protector and a good doctor. Summoned to the Admiralty, he is given command of the three-masted sloop of war, Aphrodite, barque-rigged and heavily armed. He finds himself near home as he is sent to the Irish Sea to uncover a scheme by French agents provocateurs to foment rebellion in Ireland while stealing critical matériel.
This is a tightly plotted and nicely paced novel. Burnage surrounds Merriman with a set of well-developed characters: his family, his faithful lieutenant Andrews, his doughty coxswain and the beautiful Mary Simpson. There are others, and I hope to see more in subsequent books. Much of the story takes place ashore and, as a lover of historic naval fiction, I wish Burnage had given us more action afloat -- the ship handling and naval engagement passages are compelling and sweep the reader along. The author seems increasingly to come into his own as a writer as the book progresses. Although the early part of the book is marred by technical flaws (run-on sentences, comma errors, awkward phrasing and general stiffness), there are fewer and fewer of these problems later in the book. One final polish, perhaps with the help of a copy-editor, would have made a big difference here.
Roger Burnage prefaces The Merriman Chronicles Book One: A Certain Threat with the promise of a multi-novel saga following the Merriman family from the late eighteenth century to the First World War. Since A Certain Threat ends with England and France declaring war and James Merriman setting off on an all-new adventure, we can allow ourselves to hope that the next novel continues his story.
Fortunately he finds a powerful protector and a good doctor. Summoned to the Admiralty, he is given command of the three-masted sloop of war, Aphrodite, barque-rigged and heavily armed. He finds himself near home as he is sent to the Irish Sea to uncover a scheme by French agents provocateurs to foment rebellion in Ireland while stealing critical matériel.
This is a tightly plotted and nicely paced novel. Burnage surrounds Merriman with a set of well-developed characters: his family, his faithful lieutenant Andrews, his doughty coxswain and the beautiful Mary Simpson. There are others, and I hope to see more in subsequent books. Much of the story takes place ashore and, as a lover of historic naval fiction, I wish Burnage had given us more action afloat -- the ship handling and naval engagement passages are compelling and sweep the reader along. The author seems increasingly to come into his own as a writer as the book progresses. Although the early part of the book is marred by technical flaws (run-on sentences, comma errors, awkward phrasing and general stiffness), there are fewer and fewer of these problems later in the book. One final polish, perhaps with the help of a copy-editor, would have made a big difference here.
Roger Burnage prefaces The Merriman Chronicles Book One: A Certain Threat with the promise of a multi-novel saga following the Merriman family from the late eighteenth century to the First World War. Since A Certain Threat ends with England and France declaring war and James Merriman setting off on an all-new adventure, we can allow ourselves to hope that the next novel continues his story.
January 12, 2016
Set at the end of the 18th Century just before the Napoleonic Wars, this follows the exploits of Lietenant Merriman. Injured in a battle with Barbary pirates he is given leave and returns to his family's home near Chester. He learns of a gang of smuggers who have taken a Customs ship. Before long he is summoned back to London and given command of his own ship to investigate this theft and also rumours of Irish and French involvement.
What follows is a cracking story that combines Naval adventure in the age of sail with investigation into the mystery around the loss of the Custom ship. Merriman is a strong lead character, a capable officer who looks after his men as best he can at a time when the navy was hard and brutal work, with many seamen ending up dead or injured on even the most routine missions. He is also relentless and imaginative, using the information and resources at his disposal to maximum effect to uncover the true purpose of the smugglers.
Burnage shows tremendous ability in his writing. The tone and dialogue feel very authentic, the characters well drawn and memorable. Every scene drives the plot forward or builds Merriman's character and there is a real sense of momentum and drama in the story. The descriptions of the naval encounters are a real highlight, exciting but clearly showing the danger that existed at the time, as well as the skill required by every member of the crew to ensure victory in any engagement.
Overall this was a terrific book and I would recommend it to readers of any age as a thrilling story. An easy 5 stars and an introduction to what promises to be a thrilling series.
What follows is a cracking story that combines Naval adventure in the age of sail with investigation into the mystery around the loss of the Custom ship. Merriman is a strong lead character, a capable officer who looks after his men as best he can at a time when the navy was hard and brutal work, with many seamen ending up dead or injured on even the most routine missions. He is also relentless and imaginative, using the information and resources at his disposal to maximum effect to uncover the true purpose of the smugglers.
Burnage shows tremendous ability in his writing. The tone and dialogue feel very authentic, the characters well drawn and memorable. Every scene drives the plot forward or builds Merriman's character and there is a real sense of momentum and drama in the story. The descriptions of the naval encounters are a real highlight, exciting but clearly showing the danger that existed at the time, as well as the skill required by every member of the crew to ensure victory in any engagement.
Overall this was a terrific book and I would recommend it to readers of any age as a thrilling story. An easy 5 stars and an introduction to what promises to be a thrilling series.
February 9, 2024
The tale starts out with a boom as James recounts his final moments on the Conflict and is saved by a shipmate. While it’s a harrowing moment in his young life, it prepares him for the career he has chosen: Men die when serving.
The setting is post American Revolutionary War. While that conflict is over, it appears the French think the time is right to go to war with Great Britain as she licks her wounds from the inglorious defeat to a rabble of colonists. France is planting agents in Ireland in hopes of instilling them into demanding Independence from the crown and starting a rebellion. With Ireland as an ally, the French will be able to quarter troops there and threaten England from two fronts. That is a fascinating and historically correct synopsis of the time.
Mr. Burnage does an excellent job of weaving in interesting characters to form a diabolical plot and intrigue as shadows move about the countryside to implement the plan or rebellion. His description of events and scenery are excellent. You will like you are back in this time of history. That part I enjoyed.
However, when it came to the action scenes and the endless build of to them, for me, they fell flat. Almost as if they were a sideshow to the narration. More could have been added to those parts.
Overall, not a bad read.
Who will like this? Anyone curious to revisit the animosity between France and Great Britain back in the 18th century.
Three and a half stars, raised to four.
The setting is post American Revolutionary War. While that conflict is over, it appears the French think the time is right to go to war with Great Britain as she licks her wounds from the inglorious defeat to a rabble of colonists. France is planting agents in Ireland in hopes of instilling them into demanding Independence from the crown and starting a rebellion. With Ireland as an ally, the French will be able to quarter troops there and threaten England from two fronts. That is a fascinating and historically correct synopsis of the time.
Mr. Burnage does an excellent job of weaving in interesting characters to form a diabolical plot and intrigue as shadows move about the countryside to implement the plan or rebellion. His description of events and scenery are excellent. You will like you are back in this time of history. That part I enjoyed.
However, when it came to the action scenes and the endless build of to them, for me, they fell flat. Almost as if they were a sideshow to the narration. More could have been added to those parts.
Overall, not a bad read.
Who will like this? Anyone curious to revisit the animosity between France and Great Britain back in the 18th century.
Three and a half stars, raised to four.
December 13, 2018
Comparable to the Hornblower Series.
A good, old fashion, sea story. Good read. It's predictable in places, but then again, like real life, not everyone survives.
A good, old fashion, sea story. Good read. It's predictable in places, but then again, like real life, not everyone survives.
March 1, 2023
Enjoyable yarn of naval dating do
Thoroughly enjoyed it, obviously the author is extremely well versed in naval history and seamamship I can't wait to read next instalment of the Merriman Chronicles.
Thoroughly enjoyed it, obviously the author is extremely well versed in naval history and seamamship I can't wait to read next instalment of the Merriman Chronicles.
December 4, 2023
British Navy Lt.James Merriman returns to a happy welcome home after being wounded in action at sea. But he soon goes back in action with a promotion and a new ship to command. It is 1792. The French are making mischief by enticing Irish Rebels to star an uprising that would involve British resources and attention away from France. Orders are for Merriman to intercept the rebels and the French spies and undermine their plots.
The hero is likable and intelligent, a good commander and a brave man. The author does well in describing the hard life aboard a fighting ship, where the work is hard, unrelenting and dangerous. Action drama and ship handling description s are quite well done.Same for the background scenes of English village life of the minor gentry and tradesmen.
I found this first book in the series an excellent introduction to what looks like a saga worth following to the end,
Note: there is nothing offensive in the book. Expect violent enemy contact, though.
The hero is likable and intelligent, a good commander and a brave man. The author does well in describing the hard life aboard a fighting ship, where the work is hard, unrelenting and dangerous. Action drama and ship handling description s are quite well done.Same for the background scenes of English village life of the minor gentry and tradesmen.
I found this first book in the series an excellent introduction to what looks like a saga worth following to the end,
Note: there is nothing offensive in the book. Expect violent enemy contact, though.
May 19, 2025
A Competent Heir to O'Brien and Forster
This first book in the series is highly readable and quite quickly paced. The author has formed his characters well and wastes no time getting them into action. Fans of earlier writers in this genre may notice a slight lack of detail in the handling of sails and lines, implying that the author might not have quite as much familiarity with them. That didn't compromise the storytelling for me. I will be taking a swing at the second volume.
This first book in the series is highly readable and quite quickly paced. The author has formed his characters well and wastes no time getting them into action. Fans of earlier writers in this genre may notice a slight lack of detail in the handling of sails and lines, implying that the author might not have quite as much familiarity with them. That didn't compromise the storytelling for me. I will be taking a swing at the second volume.
March 14, 2023
excellent
A very good age of sail novel. Characters are well done, story line is gripping,, and the political entanglements are easy to follow.
Onto the second book….
Recommend
A very good age of sail novel. Characters are well done, story line is gripping,, and the political entanglements are easy to follow.
Onto the second book….
Recommend
May 29, 2023
Exciting read for someone who enjoys naval stories
Well written and accurate in detail. A close account of the French and Irish position reflected at the time. I will follow the series.
Well written and accurate in detail. A close account of the French and Irish position reflected at the time. I will follow the series.
March 9, 2023
A Certain Threat.
What a great read, I enjoyed that. Our young hero navigates his way around the Irish Sea with his on board spy and his crew determined to crush a conspiracy between the wicked Irish and the even worse French who wish serious harm to England (nothing new there then) in the months before war is declared between the French and the English in 1793.
What a great read, I enjoyed that. Our young hero navigates his way around the Irish Sea with his on board spy and his crew determined to crush a conspiracy between the wicked Irish and the even worse French who wish serious harm to England (nothing new there then) in the months before war is declared between the French and the English in 1793.
June 17, 2024
A youthful British Captain deals with villanous traitors and French spy’s
Set in Britain in the late 1790’s just prior to Napoleon’s rise a young British Captain skippers his ship to recover a stolen Revenue tax cutter. Under quiet orders from the Prime Minister and directions from an undercover British agent Captain Merriman shows his talent and wins the heart of an independent woman.
Set in Britain in the late 1790’s just prior to Napoleon’s rise a young British Captain skippers his ship to recover a stolen Revenue tax cutter. Under quiet orders from the Prime Minister and directions from an undercover British agent Captain Merriman shows his talent and wins the heart of an independent woman.
May 14, 2014
Not the best of the Napoleonic War novels, but this is a crowded field and there are several excellent authors competing for readers. The ship handling details are not as complex as in the C.S. Forrester or Patrick O'brian, and the character is not as complex as Dewey Lambdin's Alan Lewrie. However, if you love sailing ships of this era, you won't be disappointed by this, the first book in the series.
October 24, 2023
I loved the narration of Nigel Peever, who brings the sea salt to your ears. Perfect
Lieutenant Merriman is on leave after being Injured in a battle with Barbary pirates. He is resting up at his family's home near Chester. When he learns smugglers have taken a Customs ship., he starts to investigate and the rumours of Irish and French involvement.
This is a proper high sea adventure , with smugglers, action and oh a pirate.
Lieutenant Merriman is on leave after being Injured in a battle with Barbary pirates. He is resting up at his family's home near Chester. When he learns smugglers have taken a Customs ship., he starts to investigate and the rumours of Irish and French involvement.
This is a proper high sea adventure , with smugglers, action and oh a pirate.
February 11, 2015
Not as good as Patrick O'Brian but a very readable age of sail novel. I look forward to the rest of the season series. All the players are in place, the French Revolutionary war has started and Merriman is ready to sail wherever the service requires.
October 25, 2024
A truly wonderful book
An exciting, Interesting, And action pack book. I can't wait to read the rest of the series. A tremendous amount of research went into this book. His descriptions of Eighteenth century ships is Outstanding.
An exciting, Interesting, And action pack book. I can't wait to read the rest of the series. A tremendous amount of research went into this book. His descriptions of Eighteenth century ships is Outstanding.
April 15, 2023
Good Story !!!
After setting the stage and characters, plot starts rolling fairly quick! Naval guns and nefarious villains!! Look forward to the next installment.
After setting the stage and characters, plot starts rolling fairly quick! Naval guns and nefarious villains!! Look forward to the next installment.
January 23, 2024
Merriman faces pirates, smugglers, rebels, and spies in this swashbuckling tale about the life of a British sea captain during the time of the French Revolution.
February 8, 2024
Great British naval series
First book finished and can't wait to start the next in the series. Next adventure should be great as the first.
First book finished and can't wait to start the next in the series. Next adventure should be great as the first.
Read
October 26, 2024Great historical story
November 11, 2023
A great read. Historical naval fiction done well
I have been looking forward to this book for a while. I read some of C.S. Forester’s Hornblower and an awful lot of Alexander Kent’s Bolitho series in my late teens and early twenties and I loved the vivid pictures of naval life both depicted and was swept away by their adventures. So, a pretty tough act to follow but Roger Burnage meets the challenge admirably. The book has an interesting author’s note at the beginning which I found quite fascinating and it was a good lead into what was to follow.
The story centres around Lieutenant James Merriman. Injured in the line of duty and having lost his ship, he is travelling by carriage from the Admiralty to his home in Chester. Nursing his wound, Merriman is uncertain of his future with peace between England and France, but he is soon called into action. Given a new sloop to command with orders to patrol the Irish Sea and assist a Treasury Agent called Mr Grahame in the uncovering of any plots between Irish dissidents and the French, things soon take a dramatic turn and it falls upon young James Merriman to sort things out.
The story was written in a very engaging way. The narrative is sharp and punchy and does not dawdle between scenes with wasted exposition, and it is told with a flare for life in the late 1700s. The language and places, shops and inns all reflect life in that period and I love historical books (even fictional) that teach you a little something.
Merriman cut a stoic Britishness that made him very likeable. He is quite no-nonsense outwardly but as the reader you get to see all his doubts and worries. I loved the shipboard life. The integration of the ship’s crew and officers, working out the strengths and weaknesses of each. The language was spot on and I must say that Roger Burnage knows his ships-of-the-line. The sailing and handling of the ship were well done and the battle scenes were abruptly brutal and non-discriminatory in their carnage.
Overall, a thoroughly engaging book and I am looking forward to reading about Commander Merriman’s next adventure. If you are a fan of O’Brian, Forester or Kent and are looking for a new author in this vain then I highly recommend these books to you.
I have been looking forward to this book for a while. I read some of C.S. Forester’s Hornblower and an awful lot of Alexander Kent’s Bolitho series in my late teens and early twenties and I loved the vivid pictures of naval life both depicted and was swept away by their adventures. So, a pretty tough act to follow but Roger Burnage meets the challenge admirably. The book has an interesting author’s note at the beginning which I found quite fascinating and it was a good lead into what was to follow.
The story centres around Lieutenant James Merriman. Injured in the line of duty and having lost his ship, he is travelling by carriage from the Admiralty to his home in Chester. Nursing his wound, Merriman is uncertain of his future with peace between England and France, but he is soon called into action. Given a new sloop to command with orders to patrol the Irish Sea and assist a Treasury Agent called Mr Grahame in the uncovering of any plots between Irish dissidents and the French, things soon take a dramatic turn and it falls upon young James Merriman to sort things out.
The story was written in a very engaging way. The narrative is sharp and punchy and does not dawdle between scenes with wasted exposition, and it is told with a flare for life in the late 1700s. The language and places, shops and inns all reflect life in that period and I love historical books (even fictional) that teach you a little something.
Merriman cut a stoic Britishness that made him very likeable. He is quite no-nonsense outwardly but as the reader you get to see all his doubts and worries. I loved the shipboard life. The integration of the ship’s crew and officers, working out the strengths and weaknesses of each. The language was spot on and I must say that Roger Burnage knows his ships-of-the-line. The sailing and handling of the ship were well done and the battle scenes were abruptly brutal and non-discriminatory in their carnage.
Overall, a thoroughly engaging book and I am looking forward to reading about Commander Merriman’s next adventure. If you are a fan of O’Brian, Forester or Kent and are looking for a new author in this vain then I highly recommend these books to you.
July 7, 2025
This book is basic but does exactly what you want it to.
It's not a classic; there's no element which really elevates it as a book, for example character depth or quality of writing or nautical detail. But equally there is nothing bad or weak about the book. It's solidly written, both in action and in description - although it uses a lot of conversation which took a little getting used to. The characters are likeable enough and there's action aplenty. It's well researched, albeit occasionally coming across as a history lesson rather than naturally slotting into the narrative. The strongest feature of the novel is the plot. which is well paced and of a solid level of complexity.
It's a book that will satisfy the cravings of those wanting nautical adventure, without being considered a blockbuster. It's an easy read and whilst it won't trouble the higher ratings I enjoyed it and found it worth 3 stars.
It's not a classic; there's no element which really elevates it as a book, for example character depth or quality of writing or nautical detail. But equally there is nothing bad or weak about the book. It's solidly written, both in action and in description - although it uses a lot of conversation which took a little getting used to. The characters are likeable enough and there's action aplenty. It's well researched, albeit occasionally coming across as a history lesson rather than naturally slotting into the narrative. The strongest feature of the novel is the plot. which is well paced and of a solid level of complexity.
It's a book that will satisfy the cravings of those wanting nautical adventure, without being considered a blockbuster. It's an easy read and whilst it won't trouble the higher ratings I enjoyed it and found it worth 3 stars.
July 1, 2023
A decent sea novel, this time starting in 1793, with the revolution in France and the horrors of its aftermath fresh in the minds of all involved.
Lieutenant Merriman is without a ship in peace time, on half pay and uncertain of any chance of employment on a ship. At the same time, the French are behind the scenes working on a scheme to work with the Irish to get to use their harbors to attack England.
There is some repetition and too many conversations are described rather than written out, missing many chances for fresh characterization. Few of the characters are very distinct, but they are interesting enough.
Lieutenant Merriman is without a ship in peace time, on half pay and uncertain of any chance of employment on a ship. At the same time, the French are behind the scenes working on a scheme to work with the Irish to get to use their harbors to attack England.
There is some repetition and too many conversations are described rather than written out, missing many chances for fresh characterization. Few of the characters are very distinct, but they are interesting enough.
May 17, 2023
WHY?????
WHY do some authors, this one included, feel it necessary to fill their stories with profanity??????
This sounded like it would be a great series of books to read......until it was apparent that Mr. Burnage couldn't write a single page without lacing it with profanity.
Profanity adds nothing to the story but detracts from it.
I won't be reading any of Mr. Burnage's books
WHY do some authors, this one included, feel it necessary to fill their stories with profanity??????
This sounded like it would be a great series of books to read......until it was apparent that Mr. Burnage couldn't write a single page without lacing it with profanity.
Profanity adds nothing to the story but detracts from it.
I won't be reading any of Mr. Burnage's books
July 22, 2023
a good naval yarn
An engaging story with accurate historical references, and interesting characters, Mr. Burnage offers a pleasant seafaring tale in the tradition of Forrester and O’Brian.
An engaging story with accurate historical references, and interesting characters, Mr. Burnage offers a pleasant seafaring tale in the tradition of Forrester and O’Brian.
August 9, 2023
seems the. start of a very good series
Book has all the aspects of a good napoleonic era naval drama. A young officer with a big task set for him. Spy networks. Young officers. A Frog villain and a love story. Very good pace to the story as well.
Book has all the aspects of a good napoleonic era naval drama. A young officer with a big task set for him. Spy networks. Young officers. A Frog villain and a love story. Very good pace to the story as well.
September 1, 2023
Good three stars. Okay start to a series but I have been spoiled by other books of this genre and am hoping to fight French frigates by the handful and three deck battleships by the bushels full.
BRING THEM ON!
BRING THEM ON!
July 8, 2024
A wonderful new story in the Merriman chronicles. I totally enjoyed it,especially the horse sound effects.lol Nigel Peever brings it all to life with his amazing narration.Every character sounds different and is beleivable. I was given this book free for an honest review.
September 29, 2024
Really enjoyed this historical novel. Author did a fine job capturing the politics, naval procedures, personalities, and even the much simpler times of nearly two and a half centuries ago. Want to read more.
December 6, 2025
Great story and read!
Seafaring stories of this era are one of my favorite reads, and this one is a great beginning to the series. I'm looking forward to how it continues to develop.
Seafaring stories of this era are one of my favorite reads, and this one is a great beginning to the series. I'm looking forward to how it continues to develop.
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