Gathering Storm - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0099513641 ISBN 13: 9780099513643

Publisher: Arrow

Synopsis

Spring 1791 Though deeply disturbed by a terrible incident during his previous commission, James Hayter is nevertheless on the verge of taking command of HMS Sloop Eglantine as Master and Commander when personal tragedy shatters his life. The twin blows convince Hayter that he is not fit to command and he must turn his back on the sea forever. Even the intervention of his friend and former captain, William Rennie cannot not dissuade him from derelicting his duty. Though repenting in the end of his decision, Hayter's career in the Navy appears to be over until the intervention of an agent, Mr Brough Mappin, working for Hayter's old nemesis, the British Secret Service Fund. Mappin's plan offers Hayter a chance to revive his career on a special mission, with the promise of reinstatement in the Royal Naval List if he is successful. But it is also the single most dangerous mission of his life. He must sail for France with Rennie in HMS Expedient and there rescue some persons of interest from the grasp of the French Revolutionary forces searching for them. What no one mentions is that the rescue will bring to bear on Expedient and her crew, a force so fierce and mighty that, if it can, it will wipe all trace of the incident, Hayter and the ship from the memory of everyone involved in the forthcoming struggle.

About this title

About the Author:

Peter Smalley was born in Melbourne, Australia, and hails from a seafaring family. After an early career in advertising he became a screenwriter, broadcaster, and novelist. He lives in London with his wife, Clytie.

Review:

"Once aboard a frigate, Peter Smalley can be guaranteed to hold his reader a willing captive. This time the adventures of William Rennie and James Hayter take Hayter ashore for much of the time, testing him to almost breaking point, and Smalley's ability to involve proves just as strong there as it is at sea. He is a most powerful story-teller." * Diana Athill * "What these books are about are old-fashioned concepts such as duty, honour and standing by your friends and knowing what bravery is. They are not demanding, but they are typically exciting, compulsive action adventures. Take one on holiday this year." * Esquire *

About this edition

• Publisher: Arrow
• ISBN 10: 0099513641
• ISBN 13: 9780099513643
• Binding: Paperback