Droits of the Crown: A John Pearce Adventure

John Pearce faces a court martial, and Toby Burns, the chief witness, refuses to testify. HMS Hazard is under the command of Horatio Nelson, and they engage in a battle with two Spanish frigates, but they are ultimately defeated. In London, the government denies prize money for the cargo of silver Pearce took off the Santa Leocadia, and his prize agent is outmaneuvered by Henry Dundas. Pearce is sent on a mission to collect fleeing members of the Corsican government from Elba, and he finds himself trapped in a deep Corsican bay, facing odds of two to one. He must decide whether to follow his instincts or obey his orders.

Format: Hardback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 05 November 2023
Publisher: Globe Pequot Press

John Pearce, a brave and seasoned sailor, finds himself facing a court martial for a daring feat of piracy. However, his fate hangs in the balance as the crucial chief witness, Toby Burns, remains silent under questioning. With the matter unresolved, HMS Hazard is placed under the command of the legendary Horatio Nelson, known for his tumultuous and eventful cruises. The stage is set for an epic battle, as HMS Hazard engages two Spanish frigates, but the outcome is short-lived, and the crew finds themselves fleeing in the face of a superior foe.

In London, the government denies Pearce the prize money for the cargo of silver he took off the Santa Leocadia, claiming it as property of the Crown. Pearce's prize agent, determined to fight for his client's rights, finds himself outmaneuvered by the cunning Henry Dundas. As if this were not enough, the past comes back to haunt Emily Barclay and the thief-taker Walter Hodgson, with some very bad pennies from their past resurfacing.

From Elba, Pearce is sent on a mission to collect fleeing members of the Corsican government, an assignment that appears straightforward but quickly turns complex. Pearce seeks a solution that will not risk his ship, and he turns to a local clan chief for assistance. However, his decision to seek the clan's help inadvertently puts himself, his crew, and his rescued charges in jeopardy.

Trapped in a deep Corsican bay, facing odds of two to one, Pearce must employ devious tactics to overcome the formidable enemy. Despite his success, he is faced with a moral dilemma: should he follow his instincts and abandon his mission, or should he obey his orders and risk the lives of his crew?

The story of John Pearce and HMS Hazard is a thrilling tale of courage, determination, and the clash of ideologies. It showcases the complex dynamics of power, loyalty, and honor in the world of naval warfare. With its vivid descriptions, intense action, and memorable characters, this novel is a must-read for anyone who loves adventure, history, and the sea.

Weight: 572g
Dimension: 162 x 237 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493076833