The Continental Risque

In the third book of what was intended to be a trilogy, Nelson churns into the birth of the American Navy with Captain Isaac Biddlecomb as the lead character. The problems that Biddlecomb has encountered in the first two books do not desert him and there is much to occupy his time and his famous ability to escape from what appears to be imminent defeat, capture and death. There is something here to please everyone and if you have read the first two books in this series, you will not be going to bed early. Old antagonists return, new ones are born, the historical thread of the novel is well fleshed out and the story telling is first rate. Get a cup of your favorite brew and clear for action.

The Colonial Navy is formed at last, and Isaac is placed in charge of the only purpose-built man-o'war brig amongst them. His crew is a different matter: political pressures force the demotion of Rumstick and the installation of an unknown quantity as 1st Lieutenant, who brings with him an abrasive manner and 30 crew to replace those who left for the greater attraction and rewards of privateering.These 30 consist mainly of Southern convicts - including a deadly sea-lawyer bent on causing havoc (and succeeding admirably) - and this combination twice leads almost to full mutiny, only averted by Isaac's charisma and his friends' loyalty.Again, a factual account (outlined in the historical postscript) makes for a great read (one wonders if John Adams was really the obnoxious boor portrayed here?) *****

Generally this is a good historical novel, and has more naval action than the author's last novel. The main problem is the author's refusal to allow the loss of a ship (and the main character's assignment to another ship). The story starts with an improbable, larger-than-life, rescue of the ship from where it was beached at the end of the previous novel. Making things too larger-than-life detracts from an otherwise good story. It is a good account of the creation of a fledgling navy. The politics described were a continuing problem for the young U.S. Navy for a long period of time, e.g., the appointment of officers based on connections rather than ability.

The third novel in the series (a fourth is due out soon) is the best one yet. An exciting tale alive with history, battles, political turmoil, courage and cowardice. Captain Biddlecomb has developed into a seaworthy character who is brave, cunning and much to his discomfort, a patriot. The regional distrust between northern and southern politicians were most interesting, since most of the naval vessels were built, crewed and sailed from northern ports. The first contigent of Marines was a superb touch as was the first landings on a foreign shore. Much insight into the actual sailing of ships, positions of shore batteries, fortresses, local commanders were all presented in a fresh fashion. An excellent read, and am looking forward to the fourth novel. As I mentioned in my reviews of the first two books, far too many nautical terms that most landlubbers won't understand. But some really terrific sea battles, storms, neferous characters and dialog. I would like to see more books by Mr. Nelson, who really knows about sailing ships, perhaps the War of 1812, the Seminole War or something with the Barbary pirates. Perhaps another nautical series could develope about the Civil War featuring Biddlecomb's son(s)? That would be something to really look forward to.

This is the third of a triology which will now have a sequel. Having read all of O'Brian's books, I found Nelson a pleasant change of pace. The story covers detail of the first exploits of the American Navy which moves at a pace not found in O'Brian's books. You won't find information on the variety of seagulls observed during the voyage, but the void is filled with more interesting insights of historical note. I recommend this series as an outstanding opportunity to enjoy a phase of American history not previously explored in my readings.