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The Letter of Marque Review


The Letter of Marque

Published: 1988

Author: Patrick O'Brian

Book 12 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 Letter of Marque Summary


The Review:

Patrick O'Brian’s ‘The Letter of Marque” picks up right where “The Reverse of the Medal” left off, with Jack Aubrey kicked out of the Navy and H.M.S. Surprise decommissioned and serves as the second part of the story in a much more straightforward manner than the other volumes in the series. As a result, many loose ends are wrapped up, and Patrick O'Brian takes readers on a different path with the next novel but that is for the next time.

It's no easy task to keep a reader's attention twelve books into a series, but Patrick O'Brian makes it look simple. Despite the fact that readers are traveling with both Aubrey and Maturin around the world and in dozens of engagements, the characters remain fresh as they evolve and grow.

After his humiliating discharge from the army, Aubrey is understandably sad and concerned; even when an opportunity to return is presented to him if he simply asks for a pardon, he firmly rejects, and such is the intensity of his conviction. To seek forgiveness would be to accept he'd made a mistake in the first place.

One of the many reasons why the books are so successful is because of such characterization. Another is Patrick O'Brian’s depictions of naval combat, which are exquisitely detailed in The Letter of Marque, Aubrey's luck holds in a wonderfully fascinating and audacious encounter. I'm hesitant to say much more for fear of giving too much away about the narrative.

Letter of Marque is a typical part of the series, full of intriguing characters, fights, maritime mythology, and insights into early modern sea life and the events that surround the persons involved. There is hardly any mystery or suspense, but there is plenty of tremendous adventure. Many readers may hope Stephen would simply divorce Diane and forget about her, but that is easier said than done. This is a wonderful classic that you should buy in hardback and pass down to your generations.

I prefer to read in bed, and this series is ideal for bedtime reading (and anytime reading, too), but it's tough to put down when it's time to turn off the lights. While reading this series, one lives at sea, on the ‘S.M.H. Surprise,' as well as at court-martials, jails, ports, and far-flung locations where espionage, botanizing, doctoring, and warfare take place. The letter of Marque is a heartfelt tale of profound loyalty, deep friendship, and a few heart-stopping cliffhangers. It is not to be missed. It's fantastic, much like the rest of Patrick O'Brian’s works in this series.

The way Patrick O'Brian managed to tie all of the twenty-one volumes together is just remarkable. It's as astounding as what we've heard about Mozart's scores, namely that they're all one piece, having appeared to be dictated from on high. I know Patrick O'Brian did in fact cross stuff out, he couldn't have had the entire canon thought out in his head ahead of time, yet it appears that way and I think he actually had a plan of what he will do with the series from the start.

How Patrick O'Brian is able to weave in and out of the story's numerous characters in naturalistic ways. His ability to write about nautical technical jargon in such a casual and off-handed manner, as if they were as second nature to him as they were to Jack. And he appears to be capable of doing so despite never having had much firsthand experience with sailing vessels.

It makes me question whether Patrick O'Brian wasn't a sailor in a prior life and has now reconnected his conscious mind to that past existence. At other times, his writing is pure literary lyricism, like in Letter of Marque, when he describes Steven's state of mind during the days after he fell from the tower while he was semi-conscious. That is the greatest writing I've ever read and one of the completest ways an author can write.


Final Thoughts:

The story's true heart isn't the war or the trials and issues Aubrey experiences; it's the bond between Maturin and Aubrey, as well as the steady development of the people that surround them: Sophie, Diana Villiers, and Aubrey's children. With each subsequent volume of the series, these people, as well as the soldiers with whom Aubrey and Maturin have served, become more and more real. Reading this book is highly recommended.


Synopsis:

“"Fine stuff...[The Letter of Marque] leaves the devotee of naval fiction eager for sequels."—Jonathan Yardley, Washington Post Book World

Captain Jack Aubrey, a brilliant and experienced officer, has been struck off the list of post-captains for a crime he did not commit. His old friend Stephen Maturin, usually cast as a ship's surgeon to mask his discreet activities on behalf of British Intelligence, has bought for Aubrey his former ship the Surprise to command as a privateer, more politely termed a letter of marque. Together they sail on a desperate mission against the French, which, if successful, may redeem Aubrey from the private hell of his disgrace.”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords:

Action, Admiral Harte, Age Of Sail, Anyone Who Loves, Aubrey And Maturin, Billy Boyd, Botany Bay, Blockade Duty, British Navy, Captain Aubrey, Captain Jack, Character Development, Desolation Island, Diving Bell, Drama, Diana Villiers, Early 19th Century, Entire Series, Far Side Side Of The World, Fortune Of War, French Agents, High Seas, Historical Fiction, HMS Surprise, Horrible Old, Indian Ocean, Ionian Mission, Jack And Stephen, Jack Aubrey, Jane Austen, Letter Of Marque, Lucky Jack, Master And Commander, Maturin Series, Mauritius Command, Napoleonic Era, Napoleonic Wars, Nautical Terms, Old Leopard, Patrick Brian, Patrick O’Brian, Patrick Obrian, Patrick O Brian, Patrickoobrian, Paul Bettany, Peter Weir, Post Captain, Red Sea, Reverse Of The Medal, Royal Navy, Russell Crowe, Simon Vance, Stephen Maturin, Stock Market, Surgeon Mate, Takes Place, Treasons Harbor, United States, USS Constitution, Well Written, Years Ago


Rating: 100/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy The Kindle Version Here:


Free With Free Audible Trial:


The Complete Aubrey/Maturin Novels (Hardcover):


Master and Commander (2003) (PG+):


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The Reverse of the Medal Review

The Reverse of the Medal Review

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.”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords:

Action, Admiral Harte, Age Of Sail, Anyone Who Loves, Aubrey And Maturin, Billy Boyd, Botany Bay, Blockade Duty, British Navy, captain Aubrey, Captain Jack, Character Development, Desolation Island, Diving Bell, Drama, Diana Villiers, Early 19th Century, Far Side Of The World, Fortune Of War, French Agents, High Seas, Historical Fiction, HMS Surprise, Horrible Old, Indian Ocean, Ionian Mission, Jack And Stephen, Jack Aubrey, Jane Austen, letter of marque, Lucky Jack, Master And Commander, Maturin Series, Mauritius Command, Napoleonic Era, Napoleonic Wars, Nautical Terms, Old Leopard, Patrick Brian, Patrick O’Brian, Patrick Obrian, Patrick O Brian, Patrickoobrian, Paul Bettany, Peter Weir, Post Captain, Red Sea, Reverse of the medal, Royal Navy, Russell Crowe, Simon Vance, Stephen Maturin, stock market, Surgeon Mate, takes place, Treasons Harbor, United States, USS Constitution, Well Written, Years Ago


Rating: 95/100
Recommended: 95/100 Yes.

Buy The Kindle Version Here:


Free With Free Audible Trial:


The Complete Aubrey/Maturin Novels (Hardcover):


Master and Commander (2003) (PG+):


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The Far Side of the World Review

The Far Side of the World Review

The Far Side of the World

Published: 1984

Author: Patrick O'Brian

Book 10 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 Far Side of the World Summary


The Review:

In The Far Side of the World, Patrick O'Brian follows up on the events of "Treason's Harbor," Jack Aubrey is assigned to the frigate HMS Surprise, which he initially assumed command of in the third novel “HMS Surprise” and returned to in the eighth installment, "The Ionian Mission," following a period of uncertainty. "Treason's Harbor" ended on a cliffhanger, but those threads, including Aubrey's fear that unjust if not irrational rumors that he was having an affair with a married Italian woman aboard H.M.S. Surprise would result in her husband challenging him are quickly resolved or otherwise disposed of before the current story begins.

It's still the War of 1812 in "The Far Side of the World," and the American frigate USS Norfolk is interfering with British whaling. Captain Aubrey's mission is to engage Norfolk and therefore safeguard the whalers. Stephen Maturin, his dear friend and ship's physician, is joining him on this voyage.

Aubrey also hires a new teacher, Mr. Allen, who is well-versed in the whaling profession; a clergyman, Mr. Martin, who is a naturalist and a similar soul to Maturin; and Mr. Hollum, a midshipman whose career has come to a halt and for whom Aubrey gets emotional, against his better judgment.

I seldom do this, but I feel compelled to include some information about the work in order to explain it to those who are still unfamiliar with it. But it is just summarized info of what to expect from this amazing novel... Aubrey pursues Norfolk all the way down the east coast of South America, past the treacherous waters near Cape Horn, to the Galapagos Islands, and all the way to the South Pacific.

The dreaded Doldrums, a prow-destroying lightning strike, a shipboard affair, strange disappearances, meetings with colorful whalers, and an almost disastrous but amusing rescue by South Sea islanders are among the problems Aubrey, Maturin, and crew endure. The closing chapters feel like they're building up to another cliffhanger, but most readers will find the ending to be quite satisfactory.

This is a novel in which historical accuracy and authenticity take precedence over the storyline. If you want to learn about whale hunting and slaughtering in the early nineteenth century, this is the book for you since Patrick O'Brian does his research thoroughly and explains it with a tale to ensure that it is indelibly ingrained in the reader's mind.

If you've watched the film Master and Commander, you'll know that it blended narrative threads from several of these novels, including The Far Side of the World. I strongly advise you to start with Master and Commander, the first book in the series. You'll recognize moments and characters from the books in the movie if you read all of the books in the series.

It's well-written and glows in Patrick O'Brian's technique of conveying a compelling story. However, I felt that the plot of Aubrey and Maturin didn't move forward much during the work. The clear tale narrative was rather great in and of itself, yet the reader is periodically left wanting for more, even though it is already a fantastic journey.


Final Thoughts:

What can I say that hasn't already been said about Patrick O'Brian's 'Aubrey–Maturin' novels? You're immersed in the historically authentic early 18th century British Navy, surrounded by a cast of people that are both human and heroes in their own right. I wish I could do justice to this magnificent collection of novels. For the record, Patrick O'Brian was working on a twenty-first unfinished novel when he died. It has also been made public. Because all of the novels are written in chronological sequence, you'll just have to acquire them all!

If the series seemed to be losing steam a few installments ago, this novel proves that it still has enough of it. There are many clichés repeated from previous novels that will thrill series aficionados, but there is also a lot of novelty in these new adventures that will satisfy both old and new readers.

That is why I would encourage any new readers to start with the first book, which is excellent, and work their way through - otherwise, you will be missing out on a lot of reading enjoyment and if you read almost any book from this series at random then, you will almost certainly become confused and dislike the book because all these books are written in a sequence or chronological order.


Synopsis:

“The inspiration for the major new motion picture starring Russell Crowe.
The war of 1812 continues, and Jack Aubrey sets course for Cape Horn on a mission after his own heart: intercepting a powerful American frigate outward bound to play havoc with the British whaling trade. Stephen Maturin has fish of his own to fry in the world of secret intelligence. Disaster in various guises awaits them in the Great South Sea and in the far reaches of the Pacific: typhoons, castaways, shipwrecks, murder, and criminal insanity.”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords:

Action, Admiral Harte, Age Of Sail, Anyone Who Loves, Aubrey And Maturin, Billy Boyd, Botany Bay, Blockade Duty, British Navy, Character Development, Desolation Island, Diving Bell, Drama, Diana Villiers, Early 19th Century, Far Side Side Of The World, Fortune Of War, French Agents, High Seas, Historical Fiction, HMS Surprise, Horrible Old, Indian Ocean, Ionian Mission, Jack And Stephen, Jack Aubrey, Jane Austen, Lucky Jack, Master And Commander, Maturin Series, Mauritius Command, Napoleonic Era, Napoleonic Wars, Nautical Terms, Old Leopard, Patrick Brian, Patrick O’Brian, Patrick Obrian, Patrick O Brian, Patrickoobrian, Paul Bettany, Peter Weir, Post Captain, Red Sea, Royal Navy, Russell Crowe, Simon Vance, Stephen Maturin, Surgeon Mate, Treasons Harbor, United States, USS Constitution, Well Written, Years Ago


Rating: 95/100
Recommended: 95/100 Yes.


Buy The Kindle Version Here:


Free With Free Audible Trial:


The Complete Aubrey/Maturin Novels (Hardcover):


Master and Commander (2003) (PG+):


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Any kind of support, even a simple 'like, thumbs up or a small comment' is enough and helps me grow, create and freely do more stuff and work on projects for the benefit of many.
Help me grow into a global force: https://www.patreon.com/namsu
Support with crypto coins/tokens: https://cointr.ee/namsu
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