Books matching: historical naval setting
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- #1
Save:The opinions on 'Billy Budd' by Herman Melville provide a mixed perspective on the book. Some readers appreciate the classic nature of the story, describing it as a beautifully written look at life below decks in the British Navy during the early 1800s. The book delves into the tough choices and discipline required among the fighting forces, with the threat of mutiny looming on the minds of ship captains. Despite the wordy style of writing typical of Herman Melville, readers find that the plot of Billy Budd moves along swiftly, making them contemplate deeper aspects of human nature.
- #2
Save:Sally Kent, a skilled midshipman disguised as her younger brother, navigates life on board the Audacious, a British warship, showcasing her prowess and love for the sea. Her interactions with Lieutenant Colyear, the second in command, unfold a forbidden romance amidst ship battles against the French and Spanish. The narrative intricately weaves nautical details, historical context, and witty banter, portraying a tale of deception, adventure, and love on the high seas.
Readers are drawn into the world of 'Almost a Scandal' by Elizabeth Essex through the captivating portrayal of a strong heroine in disguise, a slow-burn romance with the first officer, and the vivid depiction of life aboard a Royal Navy ship. The book's blend of action, romance, and historical elements, along with well-developed characters and engaging storytelling, keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
It wasn’t the first time Sally Kent had donned a worn, hand-me-down uniform from one of her brothers’ sea chests, but it was the first time it had felt so completely, perfectly right. She had always b... - #3
Save:A Night to Remember by Walter Lord is a non-fiction account of the sinking of the Titanic, providing a detailed and factual narrative of the events leading up to the tragedy. The book captures the perspectives of various individuals on board, from the richest to the poorest, portraying acts of heroism and cowardice amidst the chaos of the sinking ship. Walter Lord's writing style is described as concise, informative, and engaging, offering a minute-by-minute account of the final hours of the Titanic based on survivor testimonies.
HIGH IN THE CROW’S nest of the New White Star Liner Titanic, Lookout Frederick Fleet peered into a dazzling night. It was calm, clear and bitterly cold. There was no moon, but the cloudless sky blazed... - #4
Save:The 'Horatio Hornblower' series by C.S. Forester follows the fictional character of Horatio Hornblower, a Royal Navy officer during the Napoleonic Wars. The series chronicles his journey from a young midshipman to an admiral, depicting his maritime adventures, battles at sea, and rise through the ranks. The writing style is described as engaging and action-packed, with vivid descriptions of naval conflicts that immerse the reader in the world of 19th-century naval warfare.
- #5
Save:Across a Moonlit Sea by Marsha Canham is a historical romance novel set in the glorious age of Gloriana, Elizabeth I. The story follows the adventures of Isabeau Beau, a strong-willed and skilled female pirate who proves her worth on the high seas. When Beau's crew rescues Captain Simon Dante, a daring ship's captain with a noble background, their clash turns into a passionate love story amidst sea battles with Spanish galleons and privateers. The book expertly weaves historical events, such as the attack on the Spanish fleet in Cadiz in 1587 by Francis Drake, into a riveting tale of romance and adventure.
The author, Marsha Canham, impresses readers with her detailed research on sailing terms, historical figures, and the era, creating a vivid backdrop for the imaginative story. The book stands out for its realistic portrayal of life at sea, with disciplined and hardworking pirates, strong character development, and a well-balanced mix of history, sailing facts, and romance. The main female character, Beau, shines with her humor, wit, intelligence, and fiery personality, making her easily lovable and engaging, while her interactions with Dante are both hilarious and steamy.
There were six of them strung out along the horizon. Six India guards in full suits of sail, riding easy on a south-southwest wind that was at least twenty knots in strength—a square-rigger’s wind and... 'Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage' by Alfred Lansing narrates the harrowing journey of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew as they face extreme conditions in Antarctica after their ship becomes icebound and breaks apart. The story follows their incredible struggle for survival, including abandoning ship, navigating through harsh weather, and enduring extreme temperatures and lack of resources for over a year.
The order to abandon ship was given at 5 P.M. For most of the men, however, no order was needed because by then everybody knew that the ship was done and that it was time to give up trying to save her...- #7
Save:The Cruel Sea by Nicholas Monsarrat is a gripping novel set during World War II that follows the fate of the crew of a Flower class corvette as they navigate the treacherous waters of the Atlantic. The story portrays the challenges of convoy protection, the encounters with German submarines, and the relentless battle against the sea. Monsarrat's writing style, although considered dated by some, immerses readers in a long and heart-wrenching journey filled with heroism, survival, and the harsh realities of war.
The novel captures the unending grind and complexities of the war at sea, showcasing the diverse crew members from different backgrounds who are molded into a cohesive unit. The narrative delves into the personal struggles, sacrifices, and moments of camaraderie experienced by the sailors as they face constant danger, loss, and the ever-present threat of enemy submarines. Through vivid descriptions and poignant storytelling, The Cruel Sea provides a profound insight into the human spirit, resilience, and the price of survival during wartime.
In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex by Nathaniel Philbrick is a gripping account of the sinking of the whale ship Essex in 1819 after being attacked by a sperm whale. The book details the crew's harrowing journey of survival in small boats as they try to make their way back to civilization, facing starvation, cannibalism, and unimaginable hardships. Philbrick's writing style is described as a compelling page-turner, blending historical detail with memorable characters and thrilling adventure, reminiscent of a novel.
The book delves into the tragic tale of the Essex, which inspired Herman Melville's Moby Dick, providing a rich history of Nantucket's whaling industry and the psychology of leadership in extreme situations. Philbrick's extensive research is evident throughout the narrative, offering a deeper understanding of the crew's ordeal, the effects of starvation, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of hopeless odds. The story not only focuses on the disaster at sea but also explores themes of survival, humanity, and the sacrifices made in desperate circumstances.
IT WAS, HE LATER REMEMBERED, “the most pleasing moment of my life”—the moment he stepped aboard the whaleship Essex for the first time. He was fourteen years old, with a broad nose and an open, eager ...'Admiral of the Ocean Sea: A Life of Christopher Columbus' by Samuel Eliot Morison is a comprehensive biography that retraces Columbus' voyages and delves into his strengths, successes, weaknesses, and failures. Morison's detailed and engaging narrative provides a complete picture of Columbus, dispelling myths and misconceptions while capturing the excitement and adventure of the era. The book covers various aspects such as the rivalry between Portugal and Spain, the importance of the Catholic Church, shipping technology, encounters with natives, and Columbus' personal struggles and achievements.
'Two Years Before the Mast: A Sailor's Life at Sea' by Richard Henry Dana Jr. is a memoir detailing the author's two-year journey as a common sailor in the 1830s. Dana, an undergraduate at Harvard seeking to improve his health, recounts his experiences aboard merchant vessels sailing from Boston to California and back. The book vividly describes life at sea, the hardships endured by sailors, the trading activities along the California coast, and the challenges of navigating treacherous waters, such as going around Cape Horn.
The narrative style of 'Two Years Before the Mast' alternates between moments of charm, tedium, and fascination, providing readers with a glimpse into the 19th-century sailor's life. Dana's writing captures the essence of maritime experiences, detailing the daily routines, challenges, and adventures encountered during his time at sea. The book not only serves as a personal account of Dana's seafaring journey but also offers insights into early Californian history, the social dynamics aboard a sailing vessel, and the struggles faced by sailors during that era.
The fourteenth of August was the day fixed upon for the sailing of the brig Pilgrim on her voyage from Boston round Cape Horn to the western coast of North America. As she was to get under weigh early...
