Quarterdeck

In the course of four short years. Thomas Kydd, former wig maker from Guildford, has gone from pressed man to master's mate-but can he make the near-impossible step to lieutenant on the quarterdeck?

In this fifth adventure in Julian Stockwin's popular series, Kydd must pass a tough examination to confirm the lieutenancy awarded him at the bloody battle of Camper- down. But aboard the 64-gun Tenacious he faces a more daunting challenge-matching up to the high-born officers, who have spent a lifetime learning to be gentlemen. With the help of his enigmatic friend Renzi, Kydd struggles to conform to his new world but soon discovers it's easier to swing a cutlass in close quarters than negotiate the brutal minefields of upper-class society. Relief comes his way when Tenacious reaches the colonies and he is unwittingly caught up in the danger and intrigue surrounding the birth of the American Navy. There, in un- charted waters, Kydd finds that quick wits and superior seamanship once again make the difference between life and death.

With a sure hand, Stockwin brings his usual meticulous research and historical accuracy to this latest Kydd adventure. Kydd, Renzi and the men of Tenacious struggle to do their duty as King's men, but as Kydd finds out, life in the colonies brings a freedom few in English society have ever known.