'In Stockwin's hands the sea story will continue to entrance readers across the world' - Guardian

Thomas Paine Kydd, a young wig-maker from Guildford, is seized by the press gang to be a part of the crew of the 98-gun line-of-battle ship Royal William. The ship sails immediately and Kydd has to learn the harsh realities of shipboard life fast. Despite all the danger of tempest and battle he goes through, he comes to admire the skills and courage of the seamen - taking up the challenge himself to become a true sailor.

Based on dramatic real events, it is classic storytelling at its very best, rich with action with exceptional characters and a page-turning narrative.

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What readers are saying about KYDD

'A cracking good read' - 5 stars

'A first-class job' - 5 stars

'A terrific book' - 5 stars

'Excellent and very accurate' - 5 stars

'I could not put it down' - 5 stars

KYDD announces a major new voice in naval adventure writing.

About the Author
Julian Stockwin was sent at the age of fourteen to Indefatigable, a tough sea-training school. He joined the Royal Navy at fifteen before transferring to the Royal Australian Navy, where he served for eight years in the Far East, Antarctic waters and the South Seas. In Vietnam he saw active service in a carrier task force. After leaving the Navy (rated Petty Officer), Julian practised as an educational psychologist. He lived for some time in Hong Kong, where he was commissioned into the Royal Naval Reserve. He was awarded the MBE and retired with the rank of Lieutenant Commander. He now lives in Devon with his wife Kathy. More information can be found on his website at www.julianstockwin.com.

Reviews
As an O'Brien groupie myself, I began to read suspiciously... I was soon turning over the pages almost indecently fast... Roll on, the promised adventures of Kydd and Renzi on "the legendary crack frigate Artemis". * Christina Hardyment, Independent *
Stockwin weaves a fast- paced tale that brings a whiff of the sea and gunpowder. Recommended. * Citylights *
gripping...Rich in action and full of interesting characters, this thrilling novel leaves you in awe of the 18th- century seaman. * Peterborough Evening Telegraph *
impressively full of life. I was soon turning over the pages indecently fast. * Independent Friday Review *



Book Information
ISBN 9780340837818
Author Julian Stockwin
Format Paperback
Page Count 448
Imprint Hodder Paperback
Publisher Hodder & Stoughton
Weight(grams) 360g
Dimensions(mm) 198mm * 128mm * 32mm