Captain Kilburnie

Discovered Mack's Captain Kilburnie after C.S. Forrester's Hornblower. A delight.

I enjoyed this novel even though the format is vastly different from O'Brian, Kent, Lambdin, Pope and the other major writers in this genre. Following the career of Fergus Kilburnie from lowly sailor to Post Captain in one book forces a faster pace and fewer details than is normally encountered. While I prefer the normal format of one ship, one major battle or event per book - which allows for better character development, this was a fun read. When I finished, I immediately ordered the sequel.

this is one of the best books of the 1700-1800 sailing era that I have read so far, I think even better than C. S. Forester`s novels. I only hope that Mr. w. mack will continue to expand on this series.

This book is similar in style to the great books of Captain Frederick Marryat. The writing is simple in style and straight forward. The main character starts low and ends high. Not one of the greatest of this genre that I have read, but I loved this book. Angus Kilburnie is a young Scotsman that is caught with the daughter of an Irish lord and banished. He decides to make his life at sea as did his Grandfather. With the aid of his naval veteran Uncle, he is assigned to a "good ship" and does well. He is promoted from the ranks to midshipman and through good service to lieutenant. As lieutenant on a new ship, he has a foul captain and is pawned off by the bad captain to serve as First Lieutenant on a transport (a converted 74). He goes on to do great deeds on this ship and beyond. To disclose more would spoil the fun. Filled with good characters and sharp actions. If you love books about the British Royal Navy during the Napoleonic Wars, this one is not to be missed. I anxiously await the sequel. Be sure to check out the excellent WWII Destroyer books by Adm. Mack. Especially don't miss "South to Java", one of the greatest works of fiction I have ever read in any category!