The year is 1794 and Richard Bolitho takes his warship, the Hyperion, to join the blockade of France.

It is 1792, over ten years since Britain's defeat by the American colonies, and the bitter humiliation still sticks sticks in the Admiralty's craw. Now brutal smugglers, many of them naval deserters, occupy the Channel, plying their trade between England and France. Richard Bolitho's mission: to take three speedy topsail cutters and fight the treacherous raiders off the coast of Kent.

"In 1774, Richard Bolitho is a newly appointed Third Lieutenant, joining the 28-gun frigate Destiny. ... It is amidst the broadside battles and clash of swords that Bolitho learns to accept his new responsibilities as a King's officer."--Cover.

In 1784, Richard Bolitho sets sail for India on His Majesty's Frigate, the "Undine."

As the American Revolution rages on the mainland, the British Navy prepares for action at sea. Against a growing fleet of American and French privateers, the navy must maintain its blockade of Washington's vital military supplies. Caught up in the turmoil, junior officer Richard Bolitho finds himself having to make momentous decisions in the heat of battle-decisions that could affect the lives of many men and, perhaps, even the fate of nations.

Collects three novellas that chronicle the experiences of teenage midshipman Richard Bolitho, including "Richard Bolitho-Midshipman," "Midshipman Bolitho and the Avenger," and "Band of Brothers."

June 1809. Soon after taking part in the dramatic capture of Martinique in the Caribbean, Vice-Admiral Sir Richard Bolitho is next despatched to the African coast to gather a flotilla and stop French attacks on British trade routes. But Bolitho must contend with more than Britain's old enemy - he must also face the hatred of his flag captian and betrayal by a man he once counted on as his friend. In the dangerous waters off South Africa, Bolitho hunts...

The year is 1793, England is once again at war. For Richard Bolitho, the renewal of hostilities with France means a fresh command and the chance for action after months of inactivity. However, his mission to support Lord Hood in the monarchist-inspired occupation of Toulon has gone awry. Bolitho and the crew of the Hyperion are trapped by the French near a dry Mediterranean island.

Rear Admiral Richard Bolitho commands the British squadron at the Battle of Copenhagen in 1801.