Let multi-million copy seller Alexander Kent transport you right to the heart of the action in this high-octane, pacy and gripping naval adventure. Fans of Patrick O''Brian and C. S. Forester will not be disappointed.

''One of our foremost writers of naval fiction'' - Sunday Times
''As a former naval officer, Alexander Kent knows what it is like to be at sea'' -- The Times
''Engrossing'' -- ***** Reader review
''Great action, great characters, great adventure'' -- ***** Reader review
''Unexpected twists and turns, fascinating plot lines and gripping descriptions of naval battles'' -- ***** Reader review
''A difficult book to put down!'' -- ***** Reader review

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1792: A troubled peace with France means that the English royal fleet has been left to rot.

Even a frigate captain as famous as Richard Bolitho is forced to swallow his pride and visit the Admiralty daily to plead for a ship. As the clouds of war begin to rise once more over the Channel, he has no choice but to accept an appointment to the Nore.

With his small flotilla of three topsail cutters, Bolitho sets out to search the coast for seamen who have fled the harsh discipline of His Majesty''s Navy for the more tempting rewards of smuggling. But the ''Brotherhood'' he comes up against are brutal and dangerous with a secret, sinister trade in human misery.

So when a King''s ransom is in peril and Bolitho is ordered to proceed ''with all despatch'' to recover it, he has no choice but to rely on the loyalty and courage of his three gallant cutters.

If anyone fulfil this mission, it''s Bolitho - but he''ll need all his wits, wisdom, might and mettle to succeed...

Bolitho''s adventures continue in Form Line of Battle.