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Sailing Toward the Tempest
“Ride with British Naval Captain Joseph Duncan as he sails the Atlantic in search of enemy French ships while battling treacherous waters, mercurial weather, and ever-shifting winds. Set in 1795, this nautical tale is filled with fierce sea conflicts, military intrigue, and even a bit of romance.” –Katrina Thomas
Early in the French Revolutionary War, a young British naval officer, Lieutenant Joseph Duncan, finds himself unexpectedly in charge of a powerful frigate. Sailing alone in the Caribbean Sea with no one to ask for advice, he makes a fateful decision to engage a superior enemy force. Although Duncan is ultimately victorious in the fierce battle, the cargo found on the French ships attracts the attention of the Foreign Service.
Soon Duncan is thrust into the world of espionage, spies, and politics. Confirmation of his temporary promotion hinges on competing factions within the highest levels of government. He forms an unlikely friendship with a rash young Marine officer with a murky background. Together they seek answers that could expose treason, and along the way, learn the French are not their only enemies.
Early in the French Revolutionary War, a young British naval officer, Lieutenant Joseph Duncan, finds himself unexpectedly in charge of a powerful frigate. Sailing alone in the Caribbean Sea with no one to ask for advice, he makes a fateful decision to engage a superior enemy force. Although Duncan is ultimately victorious in the fierce battle, the cargo found on the French ships attracts the attention of the Foreign Service.
Soon Duncan is thrust into the world of espionage, spies, and politics. Confirmation of his temporary promotion hinges on competing factions within the highest levels of government. He forms an unlikely friendship with a rash young Marine officer with a murky background. Together they seek answers that could expose treason, and along the way, learn the French are not their only enemies.
393 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 6, 2025
235 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
October 28, 2025
A new sea novel to me, starting with a 3rd Lieutenant aboard a heavy frigate in the Caribbean. Joseph Duncan is dutiful and a fair leader of men if young and limited in his experience but is launched ahead in his career through a series of events and ends up working with the British Foreign Office (spies) investigating some questionable trade in England.
Duncan is wealthy and connected, a nephew of an Earl and his father a powerful man as well. He moves through high society with ease, but also can work with and talk with the lower classes easily as well. He's very well educated although seems only able at navigation and engages mostly in guesswork based on available evidence when he has no clear experience, and usually is right.
The writing is solid, with a decent grasp of the time and personalities Characters are somewhat distinct but could be better characterized to give them more personality. On occasions, neologisms are used that are out of place and time. The dialog moves from formal, proper English at the time to very casual more modern feeling. Our hero gets rocketed into master and commander through a series of unusual events and finds the prettiest girl in the Caribbean, although there are several pretty young ladies thrown across his path as red herrings, some added for no apparent reason to the story.
Overall its well done with minor flaws, and I look forward to another book in the series.
Duncan is wealthy and connected, a nephew of an Earl and his father a powerful man as well. He moves through high society with ease, but also can work with and talk with the lower classes easily as well. He's very well educated although seems only able at navigation and engages mostly in guesswork based on available evidence when he has no clear experience, and usually is right.
The writing is solid, with a decent grasp of the time and personalities Characters are somewhat distinct but could be better characterized to give them more personality. On occasions, neologisms are used that are out of place and time. The dialog moves from formal, proper English at the time to very casual more modern feeling. Our hero gets rocketed into master and commander through a series of unusual events and finds the prettiest girl in the Caribbean, although there are several pretty young ladies thrown across his path as red herrings, some added for no apparent reason to the story.
Overall its well done with minor flaws, and I look forward to another book in the series.
September 25, 2025
Character development is a very important thing in writing a novel, and Sailing Toward the Tempest has no shortage of it. By the time I finished reading I felt I knew Captain Duncan and a good many of the supporting players. The writing is, in a word, professional. The pacing is where the book breaks down a little -- there just isn't a lot of action. The more I reflect upon it, however, I imagine the plot of Sailing Toward the Tempest might provide a more accurate depiction of that period in history than seen in other genre novels that have guns a-blazing or a flogging in every other chapter. In truth, real-life events probably happened at a much slower pace than we've been led to believe from reading other age-of-sail books. Yes, the action is a bit sparse here, but the stage is now set after this debut offering by Mr. Schwendy, should he be planning a series, and if so, I hope there will perhaps be just a smidgen more flash and bang to keep me entertained. I will be checking back regularly to see what he delivers.
December 4, 2025
The author demonstrates a superb knowledge of his topic, both about square rigged sailing vessels and about the Royal Navy. I am a retired Navy Captain and have been a sailing instructor, and the author taught me some things (blue peter, post-captain).
Fast moving plot at the start. The story immerses you right away into the world of the Royal Navy, and the hurry up and wait atmosphere of a Navy frigate.
What could the author do better? 1) The plot drags a bit in the second half, and left me wondering "Will something please happen?" 2) The main character has no vices. It's not quite Mary Sue/ Gary Stu, but it's headed that way. An addiction, bias, or moral shortcoming would improve the character.
Overall, a good read that makes me look forward to the next one. Recommended for lovers of novels about wooden ships and iron men.
Fast moving plot at the start. The story immerses you right away into the world of the Royal Navy, and the hurry up and wait atmosphere of a Navy frigate.
What could the author do better? 1) The plot drags a bit in the second half, and left me wondering "Will something please happen?" 2) The main character has no vices. It's not quite Mary Sue/ Gary Stu, but it's headed that way. An addiction, bias, or moral shortcoming would improve the character.
Overall, a good read that makes me look forward to the next one. Recommended for lovers of novels about wooden ships and iron men.
March 7, 2025
This is the first book in a series (based on the epilogue) about Captain Joseph Duncan. I appreciate that it takes place a little bit earlier, in 1795, rather than a lot of British /Napoleon naval fiction. Joseph is 25 years old. During a battle, his captain is injured and since there's no one else, Joseph takes over. This action starts him down the path of getting command of his own ship.
I'm also happy that he has a love interest in Lillian, an admiral's daughter. Joseph is very likeable even when he becomes a captain (!!) and he seems seems very real and down to earth. I'll be interested to see more of his journey.
Thank you to Black Rose Writing for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
I'm also happy that he has a love interest in Lillian, an admiral's daughter. Joseph is very likeable even when he becomes a captain (!!) and he seems seems very real and down to earth. I'll be interested to see more of his journey.
Thank you to Black Rose Writing for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
October 1, 2025
Although the battle scenes were well written, there was a lot of filler that made the book a bit of a slog. Descriptions of daily routines among the various ranks of seamen were obviously well researched
and were a means of introducing prominent characters, a device that worked well, but the pace of the book was uneven. The protagonist was a paragon among men, never making a wrong move, just a bit too much. The dialogue was uninspired and depictions of interactions between characters just seemed to slow the main plot to a crawl. It seems to be a set up for a series, one I probably won't pursue.
and were a means of introducing prominent characters, a device that worked well, but the pace of the book was uneven. The protagonist was a paragon among men, never making a wrong move, just a bit too much. The dialogue was uninspired and depictions of interactions between characters just seemed to slow the main plot to a crawl. It seems to be a set up for a series, one I probably won't pursue.
August 26, 2025
I rate this novel as First Rate
I have read many books of the sea since I was 12. Now at 70 I would fire of a 21 gun salute for this book.
Many sea tales get bogged down in the special vocabulary. This author may use an unfamiliar term then slip in the meaning in the next paragraph. Good stuff.
The action is portrayed in great detail; again, not getting bogged down in vocabulary or extra details. I “could play the movie in my head.”
Of course, the good guys win. However it was on thin ice time after time.
I have read many books of the sea since I was 12. Now at 70 I would fire of a 21 gun salute for this book.
Many sea tales get bogged down in the special vocabulary. This author may use an unfamiliar term then slip in the meaning in the next paragraph. Good stuff.
The action is portrayed in great detail; again, not getting bogged down in vocabulary or extra details. I “could play the movie in my head.”
Of course, the good guys win. However it was on thin ice time after time.
October 8, 2025
I admit to being an ardent reader of all types of historic naval history novels, especially those set during the napoleonic wars. Unfortunately many of these ,whilst interesting, do not always flow.
However this novel gripped me from the very beginning and was in the ‘ unable to put down class’.
The writing not only displayed the authors very clear knowledge of shipcraft of that era, but his creation of characters was excellent.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and keenly anticipate the next one in the series
However this novel gripped me from the very beginning and was in the ‘ unable to put down class’.
The writing not only displayed the authors very clear knowledge of shipcraft of that era, but his creation of characters was excellent.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and keenly anticipate the next one in the series
October 19, 2025
a new face on the horizon
A new addition to the hero’s list in the British Navy. And a new staff member of the Foreign Office. A great plot line which somewhat follows all that is happening in the world today. Enjoyed the descriptive writing style which produces a good picture of the environment where the story occurs. Good character development. Looking forward to the next episode of Captain Duncan’s adventures.
A new addition to the hero’s list in the British Navy. And a new staff member of the Foreign Office. A great plot line which somewhat follows all that is happening in the world today. Enjoyed the descriptive writing style which produces a good picture of the environment where the story occurs. Good character development. Looking forward to the next episode of Captain Duncan’s adventures.
August 22, 2025
Moves along
Our hero strikes as a lieutenant and becomes a captain. He engages a French group and wins by Reasonable tactics. The French are reluctant to Fight when they were at a disadvantage So our hero gets 5 or 6 prizes he didn't have to work so hard for.
Not a bad series of escapades and we throw in a beautiful woman to boot
Our hero strikes as a lieutenant and becomes a captain. He engages a French group and wins by Reasonable tactics. The French are reluctant to Fight when they were at a disadvantage So our hero gets 5 or 6 prizes he didn't have to work so hard for.
Not a bad series of escapades and we throw in a beautiful woman to boot
September 11, 2025
A Very Enjoyable Journey
Kent Scwendy has delivered a solid entry into this area of historical fiction. The characters were well developed, the pace was steady, and there was good balance and flow throughout. He has left us in suspense, I look forward to what tales he will spin next. Thank you to the author and his team that helped bring this book to life!
Kent Scwendy has delivered a solid entry into this area of historical fiction. The characters were well developed, the pace was steady, and there was good balance and flow throughout. He has left us in suspense, I look forward to what tales he will spin next. Thank you to the author and his team that helped bring this book to life!
September 30, 2025
Pretty Good Historical Novel
Well written with lots of 18th Century nautical terms that are well explained. Good characters and actually a few pretty good plot twists. I felt the ending was somewhat rushed (the reason for 4 instead of 5 stars) but I'm looking forward to a possible sequel. The author has definite talent
Well written with lots of 18th Century nautical terms that are well explained. Good characters and actually a few pretty good plot twists. I felt the ending was somewhat rushed (the reason for 4 instead of 5 stars) but I'm looking forward to a possible sequel. The author has definite talent
November 21, 2025
Nice
Good story line. Needs proof reading help and minor corrections.for example, cannabis is an actual word however it should have been can not. Keeping track of characters having the Major arrive on the same spot he was already was another small blunder. Overall a very good read by all accounts!
Good story line. Needs proof reading help and minor corrections.for example, cannabis is an actual word however it should have been can not. Keeping track of characters having the Major arrive on the same spot he was already was another small blunder. Overall a very good read by all accounts!
November 21, 2025
Loved Caribbean story
Sailing story set in Caribbean ,excellent. . Like character development and action. Different slant from many where poor man makes good ,your hero is from money. Writing style makes for easy reading with surprises. I am waiting for next book, I hope there is more to this story.
Sailing story set in Caribbean ,excellent. . Like character development and action. Different slant from many where poor man makes good ,your hero is from money. Writing style makes for easy reading with surprises. I am waiting for next book, I hope there is more to this story.
April 10, 2025
Wonderful story and fascinating insights into sailing in the 18th century.
Love it and hope for more with these characters. They are just great. The interweaving of historical events with fictional characters truly brings a greater understanding of those times and evens.
Love it and hope for more with these characters. They are just great. The interweaving of historical events with fictional characters truly brings a greater understanding of those times and evens.
April 23, 2025
I don’t usually read a lot of historical fiction, but I really enjoyed this! By the time I got to the end I was already looking forward to reading more books in the series! I can’t wait for the next installment!
August 15, 2025
Excellent.
Gripping and entertaining. Reminds me of my fascination with Alexander Kent's (Nee Douglas Reeman) "Bolitho" books. Continue the great work. I look forward to a long and entertaining series. Cameo by Sir Richard??
Gripping and entertaining. Reminds me of my fascination with Alexander Kent's (Nee Douglas Reeman) "Bolitho" books. Continue the great work. I look forward to a long and entertaining series. Cameo by Sir Richard??
August 24, 2025
An age of sail book that is remarkably well developed for a first novel. The characters and story line are in the best traditions of Forrester, et. al. Cannot wait for the next book in a hoped for series
August 25, 2025
An interesting new series.
A lively captain and a well crewed former French frigate should serve this series well. Hopefully, the espionage aspects of the tales enhance rather than obscure the actionable potential of the forthcoming stories.
A lively captain and a well crewed former French frigate should serve this series well. Hopefully, the espionage aspects of the tales enhance rather than obscure the actionable potential of the forthcoming stories.
September 11, 2025
captures the adventure of the navel war years
Brings the complexity of naval warfare, political intrigue and spy craft into an exciting period in englands battle to control the seas
Brings the complexity of naval warfare, political intrigue and spy craft into an exciting period in englands battle to control the seas
September 15, 2025
Broadsides and Politics
War with France in 1795, as a lieutenant suddenly is left in command of a frigate facing an enemy convoy. His success launches him to promotion and marriage. This as well written and I look forward to sequels.
War with France in 1795, as a lieutenant suddenly is left in command of a frigate facing an enemy convoy. His success launches him to promotion and marriage. This as well written and I look forward to sequels.
September 20, 2025
In The Finest Tradition-Very Good
Enjoyed the book. Very detailed re: English seamanship and Boat life. Romance, politics and intrigue mixed together. Looking forward to the next edition.
Enjoyed the book. Very detailed re: English seamanship and Boat life. Romance, politics and intrigue mixed together. Looking forward to the next edition.
September 23, 2025
Wonderful story
This tale sparkled with characters so charming, they'd be the life of any dinner party—the kind of folks you'd eagerly swap business cards with and immediately friend on social media.
This tale sparkled with characters so charming, they'd be the life of any dinner party—the kind of folks you'd eagerly swap business cards with and immediately friend on social media.
September 28, 2025
A hero is made.
Wonderfully written with interesting characters. Schwendy’s descruitions of the sea, the action and the landscapes take you there.
I await more adventure with Captain Duncan and crew!
Wonderfully written with interesting characters. Schwendy’s descruitions of the sea, the action and the landscapes take you there.
I await more adventure with Captain Duncan and crew!
October 4, 2025
Excellent Story
This is an excellent Naval Story. Filled with exciting characters and action. I’ve read most authors of this genre and I’ve enjoyed this novel as much as the greats writers. When the next one please.
This is an excellent Naval Story. Filled with exciting characters and action. I’ve read most authors of this genre and I’ve enjoyed this novel as much as the greats writers. When the next one please.
October 12, 2025
Fun read.
I loved the characters and ships we got to explore. The storyline was fun and fast-paced. I enjoyed the action and the developing relationships, the romance was real and not too perfect. Great read!
I loved the characters and ships we got to explore. The storyline was fun and fast-paced. I enjoyed the action and the developing relationships, the romance was real and not too perfect. Great read!
October 13, 2025
A great find
A thoroughly enjoyable read with great characters and well blended action. The only downside is to be the last page and discover it’s not a series but a single standalone book, for now. And here I was ready for more and four hours of ready reading time available..
A thoroughly enjoyable read with great characters and well blended action. The only downside is to be the last page and discover it’s not a series but a single standalone book, for now. And here I was ready for more and four hours of ready reading time available..
October 24, 2025
look forward to the next installment
Well written and an easy read. The story is well paced although perhaps just a bit too heavy on the romance. Still, I hope the authors is well on his way to complete next tome.
Well written and an easy read. The story is well paced although perhaps just a bit too heavy on the romance. Still, I hope the authors is well on his way to complete next tome.
October 26, 2025
Real adventure on the sea.
From start to finish a very good story of adventure and romance. Makes you feel like you are there along with the characters. The story was very interesting and I hope the author will turn it into a trilogy.
From start to finish a very good story of adventure and romance. Makes you feel like you are there along with the characters. The story was very interesting and I hope the author will turn it into a trilogy.
December 8, 2025
Sorry to see it end
A well told tale with believable characters. The geography and maneuvers were believable and the ship and crew were also. I was hoping to find a next adventure with Duncan and crew…..
A well told tale with believable characters. The geography and maneuvers were believable and the ship and crew were also. I was hoping to find a next adventure with Duncan and crew…..
March 13, 2025
I really enjoyed this. It's a good few years since I have come across a Napoleonic War naval story as good as this. I hope it is the start of a long series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews