Uk Edition Cover
Master and Commander is the first in the series of books by Patrick O'Brian. The historical series chart the adventures of Captain Jack Aubrey and the surgeon, Stephen Maturin. As they navigate their way through life in her majesties navy during the Napoleonic Wars of the 18th Century.
This first book introduces the principle characters and the world they inhabit. Captain Aubrey is an ambitious but a little unorthodox officer. Maturin is a somewhat mysterious character, a man of learning but also more competent than his actions first suggests. After a rather rude meeting at a musical recital the two hit it off and become fast, though slightly, odd friends.
Maturin joins Jack as the surgeon on his new the command, The Sophie. A small but speedy brig and Jacks first real command. We follow their escapades as Jack drives the ships crew through relentless gunnery practice and modifies the ship to maximize its efficiency.
They fight their way through various exciting battles culminating in an attack on the vastly superior Spanish frigate. Throughout Captain Jack has to not only navigate the seas of the Mediterranean but also the nuances and biases of the naval command chain. Inspiring both jealousy and respect amongst the numerous officers and crew.
However, this is no simple story of military men at sea. There are numerous side plots and hints of espionage. The daily life of the crew is also examined in great detail.
The two main characters are also multifaceted. Jack is supremely confident at sea and runs a tight but fair ship. Yet on land he is often awkward and too often puts his foot in his mouth. At one society dinner, after sometime at sea, he relates to all in hearing range of his crew’s thirst for alcohol and their stiff pricks! Maturin, though an excellent surgeon, often appear lost among the men who have grown up at sea. However, he is also deeply involved in surreptitious activity on land, most of which is only hinted at.
The prose flows easily off the page and readily describes the environment. Yet, it is historically true and pulls no punches in the accuracy of the dialogue or the working of the ship. You will soon find yourself immersed in the world of frigate, brigs and Top Sails. Though perhaps this very accuracy is the only thing that might put some readers off. At first it can be heavy going and I found myself referring to the diagram at the start of the book, which explains the main sails on the ship.
However, if you persevere it is well worth it. Once you know your Flying jib from your Spanker the dialogue makes perfect sense and you become caught up in the action rather than its technical description.
In conclusion this first book in the series left me wanting more. Already, not having even finished this review, I am half way through Post Captain, the second book (there are 20). If you like your fiction historically accurate, immersive, intelligent and at times amusing, then I urge you to pick up this book and explore the incredible adventures that Patrick O’Brian has created.
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