Thunderer: Thomas Kydd 24

Captain Sir Thomas Kydd is given a bigger ship, HMS Thunderer, but it is old and needs to be brought to a proper state of fighting preparedness. He is sent to reinforce the Baltic squadron as Bonaparte's army invades Russia, and must lead a vital convoy through battle and tempest to the aid of Britain's last ally.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 07 July 2022
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

Stockwin weaves a intricate and captivating narrative, delving into the world of Britain's Georgian navy and the physical realm of the sea with authority, intrigue, captivating characters, and masterful storytelling. Quarterdeck 1812: Thunderer is a suspenseful voyage that follows Captain Sir Thomas Kydd's journey back to England after his triumphs in the Adriatic. Upon his arrival, he is bestowed with honors, including the command of HMS Thunderer, a 74-gun ship of the line. However, the ship is old and part of a standing fleet, limiting Kydd's chances of further fame and distinction.

Overcoming the challenges of his new command proves to be a daunting task. Kydd must contend with a hostile crew, inadequate levels of gunnery and sail-handling capabilities, and a shortage of men, making it difficult to bring Thunderer to a proper state of fighting preparedness.

As Bonaparte's vast army invades Russia, Kydd is sent to reinforce the Baltic squadron. He receives news of the French victory at the Battle of Borodino, which opens the road to Moscow. To prevent a total French victory, Kydd must lead a vital convoy through battle and tempest to the aid of Britain's last ally.

Julian Stockwin's Kydd series has received widespread praise for its vivid portrayal of life aboard a ship-of-the-line. The books blend fact and fiction in rich, authoritative detail, captivating readers with their heady adventure. Fans of fast-paced adventure will find plenty to enjoy in this book, which provides a fulfilling experience for those who relish the excitement and peril of the sea.

The Historical Naval Society has also lauded Stockwin's work, recognizing the author's ability to bring the past to life and transport readers to the era of sail and warfare. Quarterdeck 1812: Thunderer is a testament to Stockwin's skill as a storyteller and his dedication to historical accuracy. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a history enthusiast, this book is sure to captivate and inspire you.

Weight: 276g
Dimension: 129 x 196 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781473698864