The grim reality of war at close quarters confronts Bolitho and he will be called upon to anticipate the strategies of the French fleet. But the conflict has also taken on a personal note - the vendetta between Bolitho and the French Admiral, Jobert, who once commanded the "Argonaute".
July 1801, Plymouth. Richard Bolitho's small squadron is still repairing the scars of battle earned at Copenhagen. Now the Admiralty needs Bolitho again. After eight years of war with France, Britain must show her strength and determination and dramatically weaken the French cause. The Admiralty wants an attack. Rear-Admiral Richard Boltho must follow his flag's tradition of victory - even though for the first time in his life he is torn between the demands of public duty and personal need.
Copenhagen, 1800, and after seven years of cruel war against France, Britain's long-standing ally, Denmark, suddenly poses a threat. The scene of battle shifts abruptly from Europe to the Baltic where Rear-Admiral Richard Bolitho is thrown immediately into a fierce struggle with the enemy.
THE MEDITERRANEAN, 1793. Despite Britain's successes, the outcome of the sea war is still in the balance. As soon as his ship's refit is completed, Captain Richard Bolitho is ordered to join the blockade off the French coast.Hyperion's new crew is still little better than a rabble. But if he is to be victorious, Bolitho must test them prematurely - and risk a court-martial if he fails...
The gathering might of revolutionary France prepares to engulf Europe in another bloody war. As in the past, Britain will stand or fall by the fighting power of her fleet. For Richard Bolitho, the renewal of hostilities means a fresh command and the chance of action after long months of inactivity. However, his mission to support Lord Hood in the monarchist-inspired occupation of Toulon has gone awry. Bolitho and the crew of the Hyperion are trapped by the French near a dry Mediterranean island.
