The Reverse of the Medal
Published: 1986
Author: Patrick O'Brian
Book 11 of 21: Aubrey/Maturin Novels
Genres: Action, Adventure, British & Irish, Contemporary, Family Life, Fiction, Historical, Literary, Literature, Medical, Military, Navel, Saga, Sea, Suspense, Thriller, Travel, War
Check the summary of this book here:
The Reverse of the Medal Summary
The Review:
Patrick
O'Brian’s The Reverse of the Medal is mostly set on land, although it has one
of the series' longest chase sequences to date and it reminded me of another
great chase sequence in the novel "The Chase" by Clive Cussler. This is a superb example of Patrick O'Brian's
creative style, which he employs in the same way that a painter applies depth
to a canvas. I enjoy it when the plot takes a break on shore; it allows the
already rich character development to shine even more.
This
book, like H.M.S. Surprise comes within the experimental book categories like
Fortune of War. It's experimental because it exists on its own, rather than
jumping straight from another book. While the entire series is essentially one
big tale, some of the volumes delve deeper into the human condition than simply
being at sea and combating other ships.
Patrick O'Brian is a remarkable narrator, and his mastery of the craft is part of what
makes this series so addictive. When I originally began this reading journey, I
was convinced that the plot would grow repetitive and predictable as the
volumes went. I had this feeling because there are only so many stories about
sea trips and conflicts that one can think of. Not only was my suspicion
incorrect, but it is plainly part of his tendency to create completely distinct
circumstances, thereby including every literary method known to man.
This one takes a turn for the worst
since Jack appears to be being set up and is on his way to military disgrace
and most likely jail time. Steven, like H.M.S. Surprise takes the stage now
that Jack is in prison. Sure, it's a little depressing, but it's still packed
with witty banter. I adore how his tough crew or key ones like Killick and
Bonden practically lives with him even when he's not at sea. To return to Patrick O'Brian's method, he knows things are going to become heavy, which is why he
spends about a third of the book or the early half of the book on a pursuit.
Given that there are twenty-one novels and this is only the eleventh, I'm
certain that Jack and his crew will be able to break free.
The pace of The Reverse of the Medal is
very dissimilar from that of the other volumes in the series. This isn't to say
it's boring or tedious; far from being, but the rhythm of life at sea,
punctuated by storms, chases, and battles, is strangely lacking here. It
appears like the series is poised to take a new direction. Apart from the
detailed depictions of life at sea, the friendship between Aubrey and Maturin,
as well as the defects that each man possesses, is what brings them to life for
me. Aubrey is framed with terrible implications in this scene.
It's perplexing that Aubrey, who is a
beast at sea, is such a fragile infant on land. The narrative revolves around
his nearly childlike trust, as well as the political instability caused by his
father. As Aubrey observes, his desire to trust his fellow officers adds to the
chaos. As a result, seeing a character (as imperfect as he is) humbled and
publicly humiliated is heartbreaking.
Final Thoughts:
While The Reverse of the Medal ends with
a rabbit punch to the kidney, there remains a ray of optimism that things will
be put right and our hero will be able to return to the sea once again. As one
might imagine, this lifeline comes in the person of Dr. Maturin, whose hidden
existence as an intelligence officer gives some background and (perhaps)
atonement. The narrative ends on a virtual cliffhanger, which is maybe the most
annoying aspect. I find it reassuring to know that readers will not have to
wait years for the next chapter because all of the books have already been
published.
This book appears to be one of the
stories written in an attempt to lengthen the series. Unlike book ten, this one
is jam-packed with Aubrey's personal defects, flaws that we've learned to like.
Outside of command at sea, he is far too trustworthy, loyal, and naïve. Patrick O'Brian skillfully placed a brief by calendar tale within the wider Aubrey timeline,
which reveals a great deal about both Aubrey and Maturin. We also get a peek at
a real stock exchange scandal, which brings out the best and worst in the people
around Aubrey.
I liked how Patrick O'Brian depicted loyalty
among sailors, Aubrey's companions, and his family. We get an up-close view of
society in the era, which accomplishes in portraying a picture we wouldn't have
known without tales like these. It's a fantastic story, so read it and be
amused. This book is highly recommended, but remember to read the other novels
in the series in order before starting this one.
Synopsis:
“"An overwhelming, outstanding novel!" —Irish Times
Captain Jack Aubrey,
R. N., ashore after a successful cruise, is persuaded by a casual acquaintance to
make certain investments in the City. This innocent decision ensnares him in
the London criminal underground and in government espionage—the province of his
friend Stephen Maturin. Is Aubrey's humiliation and the threatened ruin of his
career a deliberate plot? This dark tale is a fitting backdrop to the brilliant
characterization and sparkling dialogue which Patrick O'Brians readers have come to
expect.”
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Rating: 95/100
Recommended: 95/100 Yes.
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