Brian Freemantle

Advantages: A very good read, gives an insight into a sailors life at sea in the 1800's.
Disadvantages: This series of books is a little expensive

..."Master & Commander" is the first in a series of books by Patrick O'Brian. The story is set in the year 1800 and follows the story of recently promoted Captain Jack Aubery RN and his new acquintance Stephen Maturin. Captain Aubery takes command of the 'Sophie' and persuades his new friend - Stephen Maturin - to join as the new ships surgeon. Jack Aubery proves to be an able captain both in seamanship and in battle. We are told of gripping accounts of his battles - most especially against the Cacafuego where Capt. Aubaery gains the reputation of becoming Luck Jack Aubery. Stephen Maturin gains a reputation of a most learned surgeon, and in later books uses this to disguise his real brilliance as an intelligence officer causing mahem against the Napoleonic movement. This is a gripping book and along with a good plot line... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Good, fast paced action.
Disadvantages: Endings may get a bit repetetive.

...Brian Jacques is a brilliant fiction writer and the book, Triss is no exception. Triss portrays the story of a young squirrelmaid named, as the book implies, Triss. Her father was tragically murdered when she was young and she vows to avenge his death. The book is a bit slow sometimes but when the action gets under way it is impossible to let go. The book is a must read for experienced and hardened fans of the redwall series but I would recommend new readers to read a few of the previous books before trying this one. When I read the book I had already read several of the previous ones before so I could really understand and get into the bok a lot deeper than inexperienced readers. Personally I thought that the book is fantastic and a must read and I'm sure thers would agree with me.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

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...A cracking book this is the best read ever! It starts with the armada, a magical concept brought about by the pure sheer genius of the author to the fore and lots of bloodshed alll the way through, so not something I would recommend for the under 12s, however there are kid elements in it which would suit a moderate to late developer when it comes to reading. My kids don't this, but I think an older teenager may like the romance and intrigue that Brian Pattern creates when he writes the book. Thats all I can say really as I just simply don't want to spoil the story book for everyone! It comes printed on paper funilly enough and is a great read! Go and get it today without fail for under £4 from waterstones! Its a bargain I tell you!... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful