Enemy in Sight by Alexander Kent

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...