Nautical Fiction

★★★★★ | Nautical Fiction | Digital + Audio | Own | StoryGraph | Goodreads

The Aubrey-Maturin seafaring novels by Patrick O’Brian are so dear to me. I’ve read the complete 20-volume set three times, and I’m slowly working my way through a fourth reading, which aficionados call a circumnavigation. I discovered these novels shortly after O’Brian passed away in 2000 and have been reading them almost continually ever since.

In this tenth volume, The Far Side of the World, O’Brian found his stride. The nine previous books created such a rich tapestry of backstories for the beloved characters that here they simply shine in their strengths and lovable weaknesses. There are storms, crew troubles, and miraculous rescues, all aboard the dear old Surprise, a ship that features prominently in most of the series.

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The Far Side of the World by Patrick O’BrianRead More »

★★★★★ | Nautical Fiction | Digital | Own | StoryGraph | Goodreads 

The week after Connor passed, I could not distract myself with reading. But, I desperately needed the distraction, so I turned to the healing salve of Aubrey and Maturin. I picked up where I left off with Treason’s Harbour, which is either my third or fourth time through these books.  Transporting myself to another known world outside my suffering and despair seemed to help.

As with most of these books, the story line seemed only vaguely familiar, despite multiple readings.  Why is that? I believe I read O’Brian in such a comfortable state, letting the words roll over me, that I don’t pay too close attention to the plot.

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Treason’s Harbour by Patrick O’BrianRead More »