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ielerol's review against another edition
4.0
I do love it when Stephen Maturin goes hard on the anarchism.
On the other hand, while don’t really read these books for the plot, there’s not much of a coherent narrative throughline here. Stuff just happens, over time, (the titular Ionian mission doesn’t even start until well over halfway through) and then the book ends super abruptly. I gather from other reviews that this book is setting some stuff up that will only be revealed later, but it’s very hidden for now.
Unless it turns out Graham is a double agent. I was fully convinced he was going to be revealed as one at one point, but now I think maybe not? I’m still suspicious though.
On the other hand, while don’t really read these books for the plot, there’s not much of a coherent narrative throughline here. Stuff just happens, over time, (the titular Ionian mission doesn’t even start until well over halfway through) and then the book ends super abruptly. I gather from other reviews that this book is setting some stuff up that will only be revealed later, but it’s very hidden for now.
Unless it turns out Graham is a double agent. I was fully convinced he was going to be revealed as one at one point, but now I think maybe not? I’m still suspicious though.
mbondlamberty's review against another edition
4.0
One has to keep in mind that O'Brian was relying on actual logs and records for most of his tales. With that in mind understand that blockade duty can be dull and that is why this is 4 stars. That said the parts that aren't blockade are fun. Not to engage in another comparison with Hornblower, this series is more enjoyable for the obvious human shortcomings of the Captain, compared to Hornblower's mystical ability to do just about everything he sets his mind to do. And you see Aubrey fumble about a bit.
trowellingbadger's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
siria's review against another edition
5.0
I've heard people say that this isn't one of his better novels, but I think that's mostly people griping because there's not enough action in it - the battles that are threatened in the earlier half of the book never come off, and the titular Ionian Mission is confined to the last quarter or so of the book. But his trademark wit and historical vibrancy are there in bucketloads; and I think it's a good reminder of the fact that life in the royal navy at the time didn't consist of non-stop battles, but very ferocious and bloody conflicts which were then followed by long periods of boredom and monotony.
In conclusion: <3 Stephen, <3 Jack.
In conclusion: <3 Stephen, <3 Jack.
doodlebuginarug's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
informative
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
justfoxie's review against another edition
5.0
first read - April 2007.
second read - 2009
third read July/Aug 2011
My favourite in the series!
second read - 2009
third read July/Aug 2011
My favourite in the series!
andydavidsmith76's review against another edition
adventurous
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
3.0
madswag27's review against another edition
Not the most exciting episode thus far... between the boredom in the French blockade and the 'Ionian' diplomatic mission not really getting off until 3/4 of the way through, I've gotta admit the real heights of drama for me were: gumbrils; the poetry contests; "oh dear no one cut up the sails to make costumes please"; and Stephen's ill-timed swim. And Stephen seeing some spotted eagles. Oh and bby Calamy! <3