Battle Smoke

Fox #8

by Adam Hardy

ONLY THE RUTHLESS SURVIVEYears on the high seas had taught George Abercrombie Fox that running a ship and winning battles with it were only for the brave and the brash ... for the men who would die rather than surrender to the sea or the enemy.Now, with the Furieuse barely afloat, with the captain barely in command of his crew, with the French preparing another attack, only Fox can maneuver them back home. The big question at what price?Fox is a genius at whipping ships and men back into shape. But few can tolerate his tough and demanding standards of excellence. Once again, he must defy men of power and influence for the honor of his ship and his men. Even if it means fighting an entire squadron. Which bigod, he is prepared to do!FOX IS NOT THE NOBLE HERO OF TRADITIONAL FICTION. FOX IS A FIGHTING MAN WHO TRANSCENDS HEROISM — HE DOESN’T CARE HOW HE WINS AS LONG AS HE WINS. HE’S MEAN, CUNNING AND MOST VICIOUS WHEN TRAPPED. THERE’S NO WAY TO OUTFOX FOX!Adam Hardy was a pen name used by Kenneth Bulmer (1921-2005). A prolific writer, Bulmer wrote over 160 novels and many short stories, both under his real name and various pen names. He is best known for science fiction, including his long-running Dray Prescot series of planetary romances, but he wrote in many genres.

116 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1974

About the author

Adam Hardy is a pseudonym used by Kenneth Bulmer (1921-2005).

Reviews

[Christopher Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fox never has a little luck, either good or bad, and usually its bad. Sailing with a weak captain he essentially controls (but likes), Fox manages to battle with the aging and poorly-constructed Furieuse to great skill but still is put ashore at half pay and apparently forgotten. He spends his time in various ways including slipping into his namesake and Uncle's old profession for a short time. Finally, he's picked up for a new ship and there demonstrates enormous skill and leadership while Admiral Cloughton sails aboard his vessel.

Will Fox finally get his recognition? Is his slight interest with Captain Saunders going to pay off?

[Felton Wilkes · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very good read.

Mr. Hardy writes a very good tale of the sea , sips, and the men who sail and fight them.