Canton

by Brian Withecombe

It is 1856 and once again, relations between Britain and the Chinese are in a parlous state, with a British ship having been attacked by Imperial Chinese forces. Admiral Seymour is forced into retaliation and from there the hostilities worsen. William Courtenay, VC RN, recently married to his Emily, is tasked to proceed to Hong Kong with his three gunboats, stopping off at Singapore en route to take command of three further similar vessels, and place himself and his flotilla under the Admiral's command. He and his ships soon find themselves in the thick of action with Chinese junks. It is also Midshipman Giles Courtenay's first cruise on one of the gunboats of the flotilla. Whilst William finds himself fighting the Chinese, Edward Courtenay is also asked to take a 'flying squadron' of screw-frigates to Canton, and it is not long after his arrival that he is also in the thick of the fighting.......

279 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 9, 2024

Reviews

[John Nino · Rating 5 out of 5]

The future begins, again

The Courtney family at war in the far east. Three of the immediate family, one a future rising star perhaps, and lots of cousins and friends. Good political view of what is happening in China. Great exposition of the background of the major characters. Fascinating action scenes. Recommend reading.

[Phillip Mclaughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

more Courtenay more adventure

Following the Crimean War, the active Navy faces problems in China. Three of the sailing men are dispatched to deal with Pirates and Chinese Imperial ships around Hong Kong and Canton.

A good story with Courtenay solutions.
Highly Recommend

[Jim Purcell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series has changed generations but the characters and the story remain quite interesting.
The Courtenay generations seem to be quite able to function during the very difficult transition from sail to steam in Her Majesty’s Navy.