SOLDIER OF THE SEA

Good masculine appeal in a story of England alone against the world back in 1795-96, with episodic treatment of ship, fleet, Navy and Marine engagements. As in Broadsides (Macmillan-1940), there is the inner conflict of a man who succeeds in the profession while questioning the futility of the bloodshed. There are likable characterisations in Neely, Marlow, the young officers, the enlisted men; there's a kaleidoscope of the injustices of the Service; there's action from the French Coast to the Caribbean, from mutiny to battle, from love to humor and intelligence. Fast paced adventure of the British Marines, and enough of romance. Something of the Captain Hornblower appeal.