My ebook viewer lists only 6 Jane Austen Novels, not 17. What a bitter disappointment.
To escape a deeply personal tragedy, Conway settles on an Idyllic planet. He finds friendship, peace and ultimately exorcises the demon from his past. Yes, there are spaceships, aliens and a mystery, all finely rendered and reasonable. But it is in describing the small, common things in Conway’s life where Eric Brown shows rare talent ... Science Fiction with a gentle hand.
Starship Summer is the first of 5 short novellas, and my personal favourite.
Starship Summer is the first of 5 short novellas, and my personal favourite.
The saddest book I've read in a long time; maybe the saddest ever. It is to Science Fiction, more particularly to Military Science Fiction, what Catch 22 is to WWll fiction.
Impressed into the Navy at the age at the age of 17, promoted to midshipman, flogged for desertion, then exchanged for a prime seaman into a Guineamen headed for the African coast. So began John Newman's life as a "Slaver", ending eight years later in 1754 following a final Call to God. It is probably not coincidental that the first Call, and a sinking ship, occurred almost simultaneously. The ship didn't sink and the conviction to honour the Word of God waned. It eventually did return, and found full voice when Newman penned the inspirational Hymn Amazing Grace.
John Newman's early life is replete with adventure and exotic travel, and will be of particular interest to those fascinated by 18th and 19th century maritime history. His life is also a study in gradual moral and spiritual degradation followed by complete redemption. Slaver Captain will disappoint readers interested in maritime history as it concentrates very greatly on the latter.
The memoir consists of two parts - the pamphlet "Thoughts on the Slave Trade: A Memoir of my Infidel Days as A Slaving Captain" written in support of the Abolitionist movement; followed by an autobiographical narrative consisting of 15 letters to the Reverend Mr Haweis. The letters are collectively titled "An Authentic Narrative of Some Remarkable and Interesting Particulars in the Life of John Newton". They were written in January and February of 1763 at the request of the Reverend Heweis to bolster Newton's application for an Anglican show more Ministry and constitute as much a confessional as they do biography. After a seven year campaign, he was finally offered the Living at Olney, Buckinghamshire in 1764. During those seven years, he made representations to the Methodists, Presbyterian and Independents, and garnered a favourable reputation as an evangelical lay preacher, all the while employed as Master of Tides (Tax Collector) for Liverpool. The Church’s initial reluctance probably owes more to Newton's mercantile history than it does to his particular profession as a Slaver. In Letter VIII of his narrative (February 1764) he states:
"During the time I was engaged in the Slave Trade, I never had the least scruple as to its lawfulness, and was, upon the whole, satisfied that it was the work Providence had marked out for me. It is indeed accounted a genteel employment ..."
The letters provide a concise narrative of his life from the age of three to his retirement from the Slaving trade in 1754. They are direct to the point of bluntness, severely self-critical and constructed with the singular purpose of exposing his gradual decline from dutiful son to indifference to insolence and finally to ignominy. He apportions blame to himself alone. But the bare facts laid out in the narrative clearly signal cause and effect. The narrative style is clear, if a little formal. Biblical references are used sparingly, and generally to good affect. The Narrative leaves little room to explore the life of a seaman in the African trade, and none on any of the technical aspects of Georgian era seamanship. One beautifully rendered passage describes his capture following desertion from HMS Harwich (a 50-gun fourth rate launched in 1743 as HMS Tiger):
"They brought me back to Plymouth; I walked through the streets guarded like a felon, my heart full of indignation, shame, and fear. I was confined two days in the guardhouse, then sent on board my ship, kept a while in irons then publicly stripped and whipped."
It is a little disappointing, though understandable given the purpose underlining the narrative, that such passages are scarce.
Newton's "Thoughts on the Slave Trade" is work of considerable moral weight. It was written 34 years after he retired from the trade to support Wilberforce’s work in the Abolitionist cause. Self interest plays no part in this publication; his shame is manifest:
"... it now comes far too late to repair the misery to which I have been an accessory. I hope that it will always be a subject of humiliating reflection to me that I was once an active instrument in a business at which my heart now shudders"
Newton argues his case rationally and without sentiment or condescension . Firstly "With regard effects, and losses, suffered among our own people"; and secondly "As it affects the blacks". His first hand experience of the carnage that accompanied this trade, and his estimate of the annual death rates accompanying the trade is logically constructed and shocking. His moral and ethical arguments are sophisticated and still relevant. The pamphlet also put a human face to the African people, elevating them from the popular contemporary view of savages to a just and sophisticated society.
John Newton lived to see the passage of the Slave Trade Act in 1807.
A wonderfully erudite essay by Vincent McInerney introduces this volume: the essay on its own is almost worth the prices of admission. show less
John Newman's early life is replete with adventure and exotic travel, and will be of particular interest to those fascinated by 18th and 19th century maritime history. His life is also a study in gradual moral and spiritual degradation followed by complete redemption. Slaver Captain will disappoint readers interested in maritime history as it concentrates very greatly on the latter.
The memoir consists of two parts - the pamphlet "Thoughts on the Slave Trade: A Memoir of my Infidel Days as A Slaving Captain" written in support of the Abolitionist movement; followed by an autobiographical narrative consisting of 15 letters to the Reverend Mr Haweis. The letters are collectively titled "An Authentic Narrative of Some Remarkable and Interesting Particulars in the Life of John Newton". They were written in January and February of 1763 at the request of the Reverend Heweis to bolster Newton's application for an Anglican show more Ministry and constitute as much a confessional as they do biography. After a seven year campaign, he was finally offered the Living at Olney, Buckinghamshire in 1764. During those seven years, he made representations to the Methodists, Presbyterian and Independents, and garnered a favourable reputation as an evangelical lay preacher, all the while employed as Master of Tides (Tax Collector) for Liverpool. The Church’s initial reluctance probably owes more to Newton's mercantile history than it does to his particular profession as a Slaver. In Letter VIII of his narrative (February 1764) he states:
"During the time I was engaged in the Slave Trade, I never had the least scruple as to its lawfulness, and was, upon the whole, satisfied that it was the work Providence had marked out for me. It is indeed accounted a genteel employment ..."
The letters provide a concise narrative of his life from the age of three to his retirement from the Slaving trade in 1754. They are direct to the point of bluntness, severely self-critical and constructed with the singular purpose of exposing his gradual decline from dutiful son to indifference to insolence and finally to ignominy. He apportions blame to himself alone. But the bare facts laid out in the narrative clearly signal cause and effect. The narrative style is clear, if a little formal. Biblical references are used sparingly, and generally to good affect. The Narrative leaves little room to explore the life of a seaman in the African trade, and none on any of the technical aspects of Georgian era seamanship. One beautifully rendered passage describes his capture following desertion from HMS Harwich (a 50-gun fourth rate launched in 1743 as HMS Tiger):
"They brought me back to Plymouth; I walked through the streets guarded like a felon, my heart full of indignation, shame, and fear. I was confined two days in the guardhouse, then sent on board my ship, kept a while in irons then publicly stripped and whipped."
It is a little disappointing, though understandable given the purpose underlining the narrative, that such passages are scarce.
Newton's "Thoughts on the Slave Trade" is work of considerable moral weight. It was written 34 years after he retired from the trade to support Wilberforce’s work in the Abolitionist cause. Self interest plays no part in this publication; his shame is manifest:
"... it now comes far too late to repair the misery to which I have been an accessory. I hope that it will always be a subject of humiliating reflection to me that I was once an active instrument in a business at which my heart now shudders"
Newton argues his case rationally and without sentiment or condescension . Firstly "With regard effects, and losses, suffered among our own people"; and secondly "As it affects the blacks". His first hand experience of the carnage that accompanied this trade, and his estimate of the annual death rates accompanying the trade is logically constructed and shocking. His moral and ethical arguments are sophisticated and still relevant. The pamphlet also put a human face to the African people, elevating them from the popular contemporary view of savages to a just and sophisticated society.
John Newton lived to see the passage of the Slave Trade Act in 1807.
A wonderfully erudite essay by Vincent McInerney introduces this volume: the essay on its own is almost worth the prices of admission. show less
The third in the eight volume Philip Hazard series. Follows Hazard as he ferries wounded soldiers from Sevastopol to Constantinople, brings replacement troops back to the siege and attempts a daring rescue of a stricken allie. Hazard's command has a larger naval component than any of the other volumes on the Hazard series.
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
Typical of the novels in this genre, the story contains an estranged romance and a villainous superior. The romance intrudes less on the narrative flow than does the villain. Indeed, the romance provides leverage for the story line's progress, whereas the villain intrudes unnecessarily.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps show more are also included as an appendix. I suppose it is not surprising that this should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
Typical of the novels in this genre, the story contains an estranged romance and a villainous superior. The romance intrudes less on the narrative flow than does the villain. Indeed, the romance provides leverage for the story line's progress, whereas the villain intrudes unnecessarily.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps show more are also included as an appendix. I suppose it is not surprising that this should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The second in the eight volume Philip Hazzard series. This novel follows Hazard's adventures as the Naval Liaison officer to Army command during the preparatory phase of the siege of Sevastopol. Hazzard witnesses the charges of both the Heavy and Light Brigades.
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
Typical of the novels in this genre, the story contains an estranged romance and a villainous superior. The romance intrudes less on the narrative flow than does the villain. Indeed, the romance provides leverage for the story line's progress, whereas the villain intrudes unnecessarily.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps are also included as an appendix. I suppose it is not show more surprising that this should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
Typical of the novels in this genre, the story contains an estranged romance and a villainous superior. The romance intrudes less on the narrative flow than does the villain. Indeed, the romance provides leverage for the story line's progress, whereas the villain intrudes unnecessarily.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps are also included as an appendix. I suppose it is not show more surprising that this should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The eight and last volume of the Philip Hazzard series. It finalises the events commenced in the previous novel [Shannon's Brigade]. Following the relief of Lucknow, the relief column retreats to Cawnpore with the rescued 2,000 women, children and wounded and prepares for the final assault upon the mutineers. Hazzard volunteers to assist with the smaller relief of Sitapur. The novel (and series) ends abruptly, but with all narrative threads satisfactorily resolved.
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
Typical of the novels in this genre, the story contains an estranged romance and a villainous superior. The romance intrudes less on the narrative flow than does the villain. Indeed, the romance provides leverage for the story line's progress, whereas the villain intrudes unnecessarily.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the show more editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps are also included as an appendix. I suppose it is not surprising that this should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
Typical of the novels in this genre, the story contains an estranged romance and a villainous superior. The romance intrudes less on the narrative flow than does the villain. Indeed, the romance provides leverage for the story line's progress, whereas the villain intrudes unnecessarily.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the show more editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps are also included as an appendix. I suppose it is not surprising that this should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The seventh novel in the eight volume Philip Hazzard series. Following the end of the Crimean ware, Hazzard sails for China and takes part in Keppels battle against the ChineseJunk fleet at Fatschan Creek. He then joins HMS Shannon as a volunteer when she sails to Calcutta following the Indian Mutiny. The secod half of the novel follows the Shannon's naval and marine brigade on their forced march to relief of Lucknow.
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps are also included as an appendix. I suppose it is not surprising that this should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this show more period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps are also included as an appendix. I suppose it is not surprising that this should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this show more period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The fourth in the eight volume Philip Hazzard series sees our hero ordered to Odessa to spy upon the cities defences. The seige of Sebastapol has ground to a frozen halt in the winter of January 1985 and the allied forces are desperate to prevent supplies reaching the besieged city by way of Odessa before hostilities are properly recommenced in the coming Spring.
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
Typical of the novels in this genre, the story contains an estranged romance and a villainous superior. The romance intrudes less on the narrative flow than does the villain. Indeed, the romance provides leverage for the story line's progress, whereas the villain intrudes unnecessarily.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with show more historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps are also included as an appendix. I suppose it is not surprising that this should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
Typical of the novels in this genre, the story contains an estranged romance and a villainous superior. The romance intrudes less on the narrative flow than does the villain. Indeed, the romance provides leverage for the story line's progress, whereas the villain intrudes unnecessarily.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with show more historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps are also included as an appendix. I suppose it is not surprising that this should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The sixth in the eight volume Philip Hazzard series. Set during the Crimean winter of 1854/55 and the events leading up to the attack on Kertch and Yenikale, preparatory to the forced entry to the Sea of Azoff. Hazards task is to sound and bouy the channel of the Cheska Bank.
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
Typical of the novels in this genre, the story contains an estranged romance and a villainous superior. The romance intrudes less on the narrative flow than does the villain. Indeed, the romance provides leverage for the story line's progress, whereas the villain intrudes unnecessarily.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps are also included as an appendix. I suppose it is show more not surprising that this should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
Typical of the novels in this genre, the story contains an estranged romance and a villainous superior. The romance intrudes less on the narrative flow than does the villain. Indeed, the romance provides leverage for the story line's progress, whereas the villain intrudes unnecessarily.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps are also included as an appendix. I suppose it is show more not surprising that this should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The fifth in eight volume Philip Hazzard series. Hazzard is sent to Circassia to enlsit the Guerrilla Leader, Serfir Pasha to more directly assist the Allies in their war against the Russians. Serfir Pasha's campaigns have been limited to raiding Cossack protected supply trains.
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
Typical of the novels in this genre, the story contains an estranged romance and a villainous superior. The romance intrudes less on the narrative flow than does the villain. Indeed, the romance provides leverage for the story line's progress, whereas the villain intrudes unnecessarily.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps are also included as an appendix. I suppose it show more is not surprising that this should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
Typical of the novels in this genre, the story contains an estranged romance and a villainous superior. The romance intrudes less on the narrative flow than does the villain. Indeed, the romance provides leverage for the story line's progress, whereas the villain intrudes unnecessarily.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps are also included as an appendix. I suppose it show more is not surprising that this should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
This is the introductory novel in the eight volume Philip Hazzard series. It is centered around the events of November 1853 and the commencement the of Siege of Sevastopol by (principally) British, French and Turkish forces during the Crimean war.
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
Typical of the novels in this genre, the story contains an estranged romance and a villainous superior. The romance intrudes less on the narrative flow than does the villain. Indeed, the romance provides leverage for the story line's progress, whereas the villain intrudes unnecessarily.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps are also included as an appendix. I suppose it is not surprising that this show more should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The following paragraphs are common to all 8 reviews I have posted for this series.
The novel is presented as Naval in nature; and the series as a successor to Hornblower. The action however, is mostly restricted to land operations, using the Naval volunteer brigade as the mechanism to relocate Hazzard to the centre of action. Navies of the world were at this point in history in transition from sail to steam. Remnants from the age of sail mixed with steam paddle and steam screw ships. It would have been interesting to gain some insight on this transition, but I was disappointed at the perfunctory (almost non-existent) nature of any such exposition.
Typical of the novels in this genre, the story contains an estranged romance and a villainous superior. The romance intrudes less on the narrative flow than does the villain. Indeed, the romance provides leverage for the story line's progress, whereas the villain intrudes unnecessarily.
The strength of the novel is in the meticulous historical detail presented: the editions I have read go so far as to present a detailed bibliography of the books consulted, coupled with historical notes. Copies of campaigns maps are also included as an appendix. I suppose it is not surprising that this show more should be so given that V A Stuart was something of a Historian, and supposedly an acknowledged expert of this period in British History.
What did surprise me was that under other pseudonyms, Stuart was the author of many romance novels, and was one of the founders of the Romance Novelist Association. Stuart's expertise in Military matters should not to be under-estimated. Her service in WWII (Burma, India and Australia) has provided a sound foundation for her work as a "military" , if not a particularly "naval" novelist. show less
The invention of the Dirac Communicator in the late 21st century, which promises instant communication over interstellar distances, is a starting point for a discourse on causality and faster-than-light travel. This is not typical Blish: it is more philosophical speculation than a short novel.
I found immensely enjoyable.
To save you a trip to the dictionary, Quincunx is an arrangement of things by 5 in a rectangle; particularly of trees repeated indefinitely, forming regular groups with rows running in multiple directions. One of the protagonists describes the Dirac Communicator technology as being able to look down on time as if it were a set of trees, and determine which will grow, and which will wither.
I found immensely enjoyable.
To save you a trip to the dictionary, Quincunx is an arrangement of things by 5 in a rectangle; particularly of trees repeated indefinitely, forming regular groups with rows running in multiple directions. One of the protagonists describes the Dirac Communicator technology as being able to look down on time as if it were a set of trees, and determine which will grow, and which will wither.
Baroque fiction from a science fiction master. My favourite from one of the most literate of the genre writers. The almost grandiloquent prose suits the story of the roguish Perian as he attempts to wend his way up the social ladder of Malacian Society. But it is the magical and timeless city of Malacia, so affectionately detailed and so wonderfully imagined, where Aldiss' writing shines. It is beautifully written.
The Malacia Tapestry can be read as social commentary, but it stands as minor masterpiece solely on the strength of the prose.
The Malacia Tapestry can be read as social commentary, but it stands as minor masterpiece solely on the strength of the prose.
I am generally not attracted to experimental literature; form tends to overpower characterisation and plot. Nor am I attracted to this period of literature as it is simultaneously historical and contemporary, and my powers of discrimination are inadequate to the task of a taking up a rational readers perspective. The USA trilogy is the exception. It is throws up a discordant stream of images of the (then) contemporary world, but offers neither judgement nor revelation. I don't hold with the common view that it is written from a leftist perspective, or from any political perspective at all. The subject matter is the stuff of the newspaper headlines of the day, and John Dos Passos has simply humanised these headlines.
The USA Trilogy has often been described as a "put-downable" book. And while I didn't find it so, it is better to be forewarned than disappointed. Sample it before you buy.
I consider it one of the Great books of the 20th Century. An almost forgotten masterpiece, and I wish it had been one of my countrymen who had written it.
The USA Trilogy has often been described as a "put-downable" book. And while I didn't find it so, it is better to be forewarned than disappointed. Sample it before you buy.
I consider it one of the Great books of the 20th Century. An almost forgotten masterpiece, and I wish it had been one of my countrymen who had written it.
James Lee Burke at his grim, gritty and poetic best. But this time he is angry!
A bed-ridden and bored Inspector Grant is given a selection of portrait prints to ease his contemplative burthen. Richard III's portrait catches his attention; he cannot reconcile the face in the portrait with the crimes assigned to the man. With the help of a young American researcher, Grant applies his forensic skills to arrive at a reconciliation.
The journey is largely an intellectual one conducted entirely from a hospital bed, and is supported by documentary (offstage) evidence gathered by the young researcher. Keen historians of the period will anticipate the journey, but should not be deterred from tramping over this familiar ground - the journey is as important as the destination. Non historians may be surprised.
The journey is largely an intellectual one conducted entirely from a hospital bed, and is supported by documentary (offstage) evidence gathered by the young researcher. Keen historians of the period will anticipate the journey, but should not be deterred from tramping over this familiar ground - the journey is as important as the destination. Non historians may be surprised.
Published in 1914, A Prize for Princes was Rex Stout's third novel. It is the story of a villainous woman's treacherous journey through Central Europe, the men and women she uses, and her eventual fall.
I have seen it describes as a Potboiler; which might have been apt had it even the meanest shred of merit. But it doesn't. It is simply dreadful. Characters are (barely) two-dimensional, the plotting absurd, and the language pedestrian.
As a devotee of Rex Stout's Nero Wolfe novels, I was drawn to A Prize for Princes by a promise in the Foreword to "broach three subjects associated with Nero Wolfe: the country where he spent his youth, how his marriage ended, and his feelings in general toward women." Maybe, but at a very heavy price!
If this is the only Rex Stout novel you have read you are unlikely to have gone onto his Nero Wolfe books .... which would sad. Because at their worst, they are a delightful.
I have seen it describes as a Potboiler; which might have been apt had it even the meanest shred of merit. But it doesn't. It is simply dreadful. Characters are (barely) two-dimensional, the plotting absurd, and the language pedestrian.
As a devotee of Rex Stout's Nero Wolfe novels, I was drawn to A Prize for Princes by a promise in the Foreword to "broach three subjects associated with Nero Wolfe: the country where he spent his youth, how his marriage ended, and his feelings in general toward women." Maybe, but at a very heavy price!
If this is the only Rex Stout novel you have read you are unlikely to have gone onto his Nero Wolfe books .... which would sad. Because at their worst, they are a delightful.
Source for the great film Noir classic of the same name; but it is not Noir. A hardboiled detective in the central role; but he treads softly. A femme fatale central to the plot; but played by an portly and acerbic elderly man. A fortune hunting 'doxy' to sow the seeds of confusion; but in the guise of a young southern gentleman. And the hero is a heroine.
Vera Caspary has taken all the elements of the classic Noir tale and turned them upside down. The result is an innovative and subtle mystery. The plot has some minor annoyances, but they are subjugated by a brilliant story.
Writing the novel in first person narrative form, from three separate viewpoints, was an ambitious undertaking. It did not fully succeed. The language too often gets in the way of the narrative: it is just a little off centre. The author's grasp improves with each chapter so that by the final third, it comes fully into focus.
Laura is not masterpiece of writing. It is a masterpiece of story telling.
Vera Caspary has taken all the elements of the classic Noir tale and turned them upside down. The result is an innovative and subtle mystery. The plot has some minor annoyances, but they are subjugated by a brilliant story.
Writing the novel in first person narrative form, from three separate viewpoints, was an ambitious undertaking. It did not fully succeed. The language too often gets in the way of the narrative: it is just a little off centre. The author's grasp improves with each chapter so that by the final third, it comes fully into focus.
Laura is not masterpiece of writing. It is a masterpiece of story telling.
Douglas Reeman is one of the preeminent WWII naval story tellers, and under the name of Alexander Kent, of "Fighting Sale" stories in the Hornblower tradition. In 'The White Guns', he leaves the sea for a story of Naval personnel taking control of the great harbour and naval base at Kiel immediately following the German surrender.
While Ostensibly a novel, 'The White Guns' is essentially an interconnected series of short stories covering a period of about 12 months. Concise character development, precise plotting and structure are not Reeman's strengths, but are a requirement for the type of book he has undertaken here. The result is a disjointed melange of competing plots, all of which are ultimately disappointing.
Only recommended for the serial "complete-ists" amongst us
While Ostensibly a novel, 'The White Guns' is essentially an interconnected series of short stories covering a period of about 12 months. Concise character development, precise plotting and structure are not Reeman's strengths, but are a requirement for the type of book he has undertaken here. The result is a disjointed melange of competing plots, all of which are ultimately disappointing.
Only recommended for the serial "complete-ists" amongst us
From 1789, M. Clery acted as valet to King Louis XVI and was permitted by "Petition" to continue to wait on the Royal Family during their imprisonment in the Temple. After the King's execution, Clery accompanied Marie-Therese de Bourbon (the Madame Royale) on her exile to Vienna where he continued to serve until his death. His family had been in Royal service since the time of Louis XIV.
The Journal covers the term of Louis' imprisonment (Oct 1789 - Jan 1790), and was written only a few years after the events. Clery made a point of only recording events he witnessed first hand, and, as such is more concerned with the minutiae of serving under difficult and treacherous conditions, than it is with the momentous events surrounding the birth of a Republic. Nevertheless, it is a primary source document, and the only contemporary first hand record of the imprisonment of Louis XVI. Keen students of Revolutionary France should find it worthy of study, even if only for the picture it paints of a condemned King and the servitude he finally appreciated.
If the journal leaves any lasting impression upon me, it will be of M. Clery's courage and loyalty. History is a bystander here.
The Journal covers the term of Louis' imprisonment (Oct 1789 - Jan 1790), and was written only a few years after the events. Clery made a point of only recording events he witnessed first hand, and, as such is more concerned with the minutiae of serving under difficult and treacherous conditions, than it is with the momentous events surrounding the birth of a Republic. Nevertheless, it is a primary source document, and the only contemporary first hand record of the imprisonment of Louis XVI. Keen students of Revolutionary France should find it worthy of study, even if only for the picture it paints of a condemned King and the servitude he finally appreciated.
If the journal leaves any lasting impression upon me, it will be of M. Clery's courage and loyalty. History is a bystander here.