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The Call of the Sea #2
The First Lieutenant
Nick Turnhouse continues his helter-skelter advance from Dorset farmhand to naval officer, relying on his sword arm and quick intelligence to achieve success. As he progresses, he is increasingly conscious of all he does not know, and how much he must rely on his subordinates to provide their knowledge of the sea. He also keenly appreciates how much he needs the aid and advice of Captain Woodmore, who has done so much to help him rise in the world.
His pursuit of promotion and prize-money is almost diverted when Arabella Whitefield, the squire's daughter and now the voluptuous wife of a major, appears in English Harbour and fondly recalls their early romance. Nick manages this affair of the heart adroitly, narrowly avoiding jeopardising his next promotion. Rising to Master and Commander, he will henceforth earn two-eighths of every prize he takes in his own sloop.
Taking to the sea again, and hoping to bring his wardroom with him, he becomes aware of the increasing unrest of the lower deck hands, whose pay has not risen in more than one hundred and twenty years and who live in miserable poverty. A serious situation that must be addressed, somehow.
His pursuit of promotion and prize-money is almost diverted when Arabella Whitefield, the squire's daughter and now the voluptuous wife of a major, appears in English Harbour and fondly recalls their early romance. Nick manages this affair of the heart adroitly, narrowly avoiding jeopardising his next promotion. Rising to Master and Commander, he will henceforth earn two-eighths of every prize he takes in his own sloop.
Taking to the sea again, and hoping to bring his wardroom with him, he becomes aware of the increasing unrest of the lower deck hands, whose pay has not risen in more than one hundred and twenty years and who live in miserable poverty. A serious situation that must be addressed, somehow.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 18, 2021
327 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
March 30, 2025
A bloody good story.
February 21, 2023
This is the second book of a series where a very large farmer's son who joins the British Navy to get away from his randy past where he gets in hot water with the local squire.
This book finds our hero at First Lieutenant after less than a year in the Navy from landsman. The previous book was a bit over the top; Nick Turnhouse was the best at everything and was giving his superiors advice and correction in stuff they were experts at.
This book is better about it; Nick continues to advance at a ludicrous rate (he's Master and Commander by the end) and is extremely capable in combat, but he's also good about admitting he does not really know all he needs to, relies heavily on others for the expert parts of the Navy, and is not quite as bad about telling his superiors what to do.
There are some odd bits in it still (the ships are still overgunned, the author asserts repeatedly that French aim at the rigging when historically they aimed at the hull because they didn't want crappy English built ships) but overall its better and a pretty enjoyable read.
And something I particularly appreciated is that this is the beginning of what became known as the Napoleonic Wars (although at this point Napoleon is an unknown Corsican artillery officer). At this point, the revolution in France has largely wiped out the captains and nobility in the nation, resulting in incompetent revolutionary zealots in charge of French ships, which means that while the ships are well built and the seamen aboard skilled, the leadership is a combination of incompetent, unskilled, and sadly rigid in their certainty that they are doing everything right and cannot be questioned or you question the revolution its self.
This is the only sea novel I've read which actually has this effect shown to effect: the French build great ships but sail and fight them like crap.
This book finds our hero at First Lieutenant after less than a year in the Navy from landsman. The previous book was a bit over the top; Nick Turnhouse was the best at everything and was giving his superiors advice and correction in stuff they were experts at.
This book is better about it; Nick continues to advance at a ludicrous rate (he's Master and Commander by the end) and is extremely capable in combat, but he's also good about admitting he does not really know all he needs to, relies heavily on others for the expert parts of the Navy, and is not quite as bad about telling his superiors what to do.
There are some odd bits in it still (the ships are still overgunned, the author asserts repeatedly that French aim at the rigging when historically they aimed at the hull because they didn't want crappy English built ships) but overall its better and a pretty enjoyable read.
And something I particularly appreciated is that this is the beginning of what became known as the Napoleonic Wars (although at this point Napoleon is an unknown Corsican artillery officer). At this point, the revolution in France has largely wiped out the captains and nobility in the nation, resulting in incompetent revolutionary zealots in charge of French ships, which means that while the ships are well built and the seamen aboard skilled, the leadership is a combination of incompetent, unskilled, and sadly rigid in their certainty that they are doing everything right and cannot be questioned or you question the revolution its self.
This is the only sea novel I've read which actually has this effect shown to effect: the French build great ships but sail and fight them like crap.
April 28, 2023
Risen in rank
Another tour de force by the brilliant Nick. I liked how promotion came rapidly during wartime, if serendipity avails. One would expect a rise to Post Captain, and a Flag. This rascal’s saga never fails to entertain. I think the narrative is accurate and well paced avoiding overly descriptive terms that could leave the reader awash in confusion. This book is well crafted; the breakdown of prizes reflects Wareham’s background in economics. Perhaps the author would be in line for a knighthood if royals get hooked by these writings. it’s a Very favorable portrait of British Naval tradition, blemishes and all. Good character development.
Another tour de force by the brilliant Nick. I liked how promotion came rapidly during wartime, if serendipity avails. One would expect a rise to Post Captain, and a Flag. This rascal’s saga never fails to entertain. I think the narrative is accurate and well paced avoiding overly descriptive terms that could leave the reader awash in confusion. This book is well crafted; the breakdown of prizes reflects Wareham’s background in economics. Perhaps the author would be in line for a knighthood if royals get hooked by these writings. it’s a Very favorable portrait of British Naval tradition, blemishes and all. Good character development.
August 9, 2024
Learning the Naval sea trade aggressively
This volume explains the rise of a quick to learn young lieutenant in the British Navy. In so doing it educates us on the meritocracy based path to higher rank that prevails in the Royal Navy in the 1790’s. Coupled with the financial rewards of daring battles that are uniquely available to Navy officers through capturing prizes, make it possible for lifting gifted but poor officers to successful careers. Using both detailed yet entertaining technical tidbits coupled with great character development, the author guides us skillfully to a full understanding of a sailors life in all ranks. Very entertaining
This volume explains the rise of a quick to learn young lieutenant in the British Navy. In so doing it educates us on the meritocracy based path to higher rank that prevails in the Royal Navy in the 1790’s. Coupled with the financial rewards of daring battles that are uniquely available to Navy officers through capturing prizes, make it possible for lifting gifted but poor officers to successful careers. Using both detailed yet entertaining technical tidbits coupled with great character development, the author guides us skillfully to a full understanding of a sailors life in all ranks. Very entertaining
April 26, 2023
God Reading but you better beef up on Nautical terminology
Good read more like a diary very little else in regards to short term naval action. Difficulties in comprehension author leans heavily using nautical terms regarding the handling and maneuvering of the ships. Leaves the reader not understanding the actions and their purpose. He has written this in this and preceding text. I’m certain he will do the same in his others. Leaves gaps in understanding what’s being written.
Good read more like a diary very little else in regards to short term naval action. Difficulties in comprehension author leans heavily using nautical terms regarding the handling and maneuvering of the ships. Leaves the reader not understanding the actions and their purpose. He has written this in this and preceding text. I’m certain he will do the same in his others. Leaves gaps in understanding what’s being written.
February 23, 2025
Excellent 2nd Book
This sailing adventure is very enjoyable. It definitely leans a bit towards an optimistic view of life at sea. Meaning it glosses over the hardships a bit. Our good main character seems to do no wrong and wins nearly every (in fact, every single) battle he wages. It’s a little hard to believe. However, as a soft read it’s quite entertaining knowing that everything will eventually work out for the good. Perhaps the next in the series will bring more grit and realism.
This sailing adventure is very enjoyable. It definitely leans a bit towards an optimistic view of life at sea. Meaning it glosses over the hardships a bit. Our good main character seems to do no wrong and wins nearly every (in fact, every single) battle he wages. It’s a little hard to believe. However, as a soft read it’s quite entertaining knowing that everything will eventually work out for the good. Perhaps the next in the series will bring more grit and realism.
November 20, 2021
Great pace to story.
Left me very disappointed there are only two books in the series, so far. One of the best I have read in this genre, and I have read most of them. Definitely one of my favorites. I particularly like the faster pace of the story and it’s focus on the sailing and sea fights . Not the infinite detail of the cuisine, clothing, or other facets that so often encumber other stories in this historical row.
Left me very disappointed there are only two books in the series, so far. One of the best I have read in this genre, and I have read most of them. Definitely one of my favorites. I particularly like the faster pace of the story and it’s focus on the sailing and sea fights . Not the infinite detail of the cuisine, clothing, or other facets that so often encumber other stories in this historical row.
October 30, 2021
Another well written Wareham book
This book is well worth your time and coin. It is the second volume in the series and another good one. The historical and naval facts are accurate and well used to advance the plot. The characters are well drawn and very interesting. The story is very interesting and I look forward to buying and reading the next book in the series.
This book is well worth your time and coin. It is the second volume in the series and another good one. The historical and naval facts are accurate and well used to advance the plot. The characters are well drawn and very interesting. The story is very interesting and I look forward to buying and reading the next book in the series.
January 3, 2023
A thoroughly sea going book
We now see our protagonist continuing his way up the ladder in the British navy through leadership and learning. Nick out thinks the “frogs” (French) and attacks several ports and relieves them of trade goods and ships as well as their life if they resist (which many do). Excellent story lines.
We now see our protagonist continuing his way up the ladder in the British navy through leadership and learning. Nick out thinks the “frogs” (French) and attacks several ports and relieves them of trade goods and ships as well as their life if they resist (which many do). Excellent story lines.
October 26, 2021
First Lieutenant
This is another excellent Andrew Wareham story. As with all of his works, it is well-written, the dialogue is good, and the details accurate. I like this particular story line, and eagerly await the next installment.
This is another excellent Andrew Wareham story. As with all of his works, it is well-written, the dialogue is good, and the details accurate. I like this particular story line, and eagerly await the next installment.
October 28, 2021
interesting sea tale
This second book follows Nick from premier to captain and commander. Stays consistent with the first book in story and the telling of in. Could stand to fill out the characters a little more and slow the roll, but it is entertaining.
This second book follows Nick from premier to captain and commander. Stays consistent with the first book in story and the telling of in. Could stand to fill out the characters a little more and slow the roll, but it is entertaining.
November 11, 2021
Wareham writes a lively tale.
I look forward to the next book. Nick Turnhouse now Master and Commander of his sloop is progressing up the ladder of the Royal navy leadership. I particularly like the reference to speaking properly and wish it was reflected in today's society.
I look forward to the next book. Nick Turnhouse now Master and Commander of his sloop is progressing up the ladder of the Royal navy leadership. I particularly like the reference to speaking properly and wish it was reflected in today's society.
November 18, 2021
Good reading!
But, I do not believe a young man could become a independent Captain in the Royal Navy that quickly. Plus, he is just way to lucky. Decent writing and an interesting story.
But, I do not believe a young man could become a independent Captain in the Royal Navy that quickly. Plus, he is just way to lucky. Decent writing and an interesting story.
December 11, 2021
Always. Leaves me happily anticipating the next adventure
I have read so many of Wareham’s books that I’ve lost track of which series that I am following. But it doesn’t matter. They are all thoughtful, exciting, and thoroughly enjoyable.
I have read so many of Wareham’s books that I’ve lost track of which series that I am following. But it doesn’t matter. They are all thoughtful, exciting, and thoroughly enjoyable.
January 3, 2022
Turnhouse comes of age
A well written entertaining and engrossing book. Follows the plot line very well. Excellent character development as Nick acquires his own followers. Awaiting the next chapter. Recommend as historical fiction.
A well written entertaining and engrossing book. Follows the plot line very well. Excellent character development as Nick acquires his own followers. Awaiting the next chapter. Recommend as historical fiction.
February 12, 2022
Great addition!
Found the book fast paced and enjoyable. Nonsense fighting and good times beating up the French. I recommend this book because it read fast, but kept me entertained!
Found the book fast paced and enjoyable. Nonsense fighting and good times beating up the French. I recommend this book because it read fast, but kept me entertained!
February 28, 2022
Another Good Book
This is the second book following Turn house a farm boy made sailor. I really like the characters and the action. Has a great storyline. Hope there are more books.
This is the second book following Turn house a farm boy made sailor. I really like the characters and the action. Has a great storyline. Hope there are more books.
March 16, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyable read
A thoroughly enjoyable tale but not as readable if the first book in the series hasn't already been read. I sincerely hope that there is more to this series and we are able to see where the author takes the hero in his adventures
A thoroughly enjoyable tale but not as readable if the first book in the series hasn't already been read. I sincerely hope that there is more to this series and we are able to see where the author takes the hero in his adventures
July 30, 2022
A good story of early English Naval events
A very good rendering of the early actions of the English navy. These actions related with a real-to-life slant which provides one with a variety of exciting historical occurrence events.
A very good rendering of the early actions of the English navy. These actions related with a real-to-life slant which provides one with a variety of exciting historical occurrence events.
November 3, 2021
Extremely entertaining and a good read
I really enjoyed the story (the characters and adventures). Hopefully there will soon be a 3rd book in this 2-book series.
I really enjoyed the story (the characters and adventures). Hopefully there will soon be a 3rd book in this 2-book series.
November 14, 2021
Simple read
A simple and predictable story, contains detail about the Royal Navy that give it some gravitas, but just some. Otherwise a light story.
A simple and predictable story, contains detail about the Royal Navy that give it some gravitas, but just some. Otherwise a light story.
November 20, 2021
Good read!
Looking forward to the next installment! I have read other series by Wareham and they are all entertaining and historically informative...
Looking forward to the next installment! I have read other series by Wareham and they are all entertaining and historically informative...
December 3, 2021
Sea stories.
A nice easy read . A good book for lovers of Napoleonic sea stories.
Looking forward to seeing the follow ups.
A nice easy read . A good book for lovers of Napoleonic sea stories.
Looking forward to seeing the follow ups.
December 11, 2021
Whew, really ramping up!
This is an exciting series, the mc is moving right along! The next in series shall surely show even more exciting developments!
This is an exciting series, the mc is moving right along! The next in series shall surely show even more exciting developments!
December 19, 2021
Superb
What a great book a job well done Andrew,hope there will be more story's to come ,be interested to see how Nick does
What a great book a job well done Andrew,hope there will be more story's to come ,be interested to see how Nick does
December 24, 2021
Good fun and a pleasant read.
Enjoyable for the action but light on the maritime knowledge of the day. No Patrick O’Brian but a rollicking tale.
Enjoyable for the action but light on the maritime knowledge of the day. No Patrick O’Brian but a rollicking tale.
January 2, 2022
Enjoyable and action
I do read World War Two action stories and this one not as much action as I would prefer, but enjoyable.
I do read World War Two action stories and this one not as much action as I would prefer, but enjoyable.
January 7, 2022
Second in the series and a continuation of the first. An enjoyable easy read, Nick Turnhouse continues his improbably rapid rise in RN rank.
February 16, 2022
Wareham writes a good story.
The MC's rapid rise is improbable, but this is fiction. As such, it held my interest and I'm looking forward to the next book.
The MC's rapid rise is improbable, but this is fiction. As such, it held my interest and I'm looking forward to the next book.
May 21, 2022
Exiting
Well put together swell researched and good reading will go?low this author closely
Now a rival to Douglas German keep on
Well put together swell researched and good reading will go?low this author closely
Now a rival to Douglas German keep on
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews