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

Thomas Kydd was promoted to acting lieutenant at the bloody Battle of Camperdown in October 1797. Now, he must sit an examination to confirm his rank - or face an inglorious return before the mast.

But this is only the first of many obstacles for a man who was pressed into the King's Service and discovered a calling for the sea. Kydd is from humble origins, yet he attains the lofty heights of the quarterdeck as an officer in His Majesty's Navy. If he is to avoid spending the rest of his career as a tarpaulin officer, he must also become a gentleman.

Kydd and his enigmatic friend Nicholas Renzi set sail in HMS Tenacious for the North American station. Aboard the old 64-gun ship, Kydd comes to doubt he will ever match up to the high-born gentlemen officers.

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What readers are saying about QUARTERDECK

'Superb writing, superb characterisation' - 5 stars

'Excellent reading' - 5 stars

'Without question the best series I have read in years' - 5 stars

'This book is of the highest standard' - 5 stars

'A splendid story' - 5 stars

A dramatic new cover look for the bestselling adventures of Kydd in the Great Age of Sail

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
'The vantage point of the common sailor gives the nautical novel a fresh twist. In Stockwin's hands the sea story will continue to entrance readers across the world.' - Guardian
'I was soon turning over the pages almost indecently fast ... Roll on, the promised adventures of Kydd and Renzi.' - Independent
'Stockwin paints a vivid picture of life aboard the mighty ship-of-the-line... the harsh naval discipline, the rancid food, and the skill of the common sailor are all skilfully evoked.' - Daily Express



Book Information
ISBN 9780340832196
Author Julian Stockwin
Format Paperback
Page Count 352
Imprint Hodder Paperback
Publisher Hodder & Stoughton
Weight(grams) 254g
Dimensions(mm) 197mm * 140mm * 23mm