The previous book in Seth Hunter's Nathan Peake series, The Sea of Silence, was probably the weakest book in the series to date. This one, Trafalgar: The Fog of War, might just be the best.

The title alone might be sufficient reason to assume the book focuses on the decisive battle in 1805 between the British Royal Navy and the combined French and Spanish fleet. Although a turning point in the war -- marked by the much-lamented death of Admiral Lord Nelson on HMS Victory -- Trafalgar is actually a small part of the novel. Instead, the book focuses on several other key historical events leading up to that battle, including a plot to kidnap (or murder) Napoleon Bonaparte, the work of American inventor Robert Fulton on advances in submarine and torpedo warfare, and the lesser-known (but equally important) naval battle of Finisterre.

Of course, Captain Nathan Peake is front and center during much of the action. The story begins in 1803, and Peake is cooling his heels aboard the captured French sloop of war Falaise with a hold full of arms and an uncertain future. Then Sir Sydney Smith, a historic naval officer, lures him into his schemes involving Robert Fulton, Napoleon Bonaparte, assorted expatriated French nobles (all of whom, like Smith, are historic figures) and a mysterious lady assassin and sculptor, the alluring Louisa de Kirouac (who, like Peake, isn't).

The novel encompasses both intrigue and action in equal measures. There's a bit of romance, too, but never so much as to dominate the narrative. But more importantly, it's plain good storytelling. Hunter has nestled his protagonist into the heart of historic events in a compelling, believable fashion, and when Peake sails into battle you feel like you are there.

Trafalgar: The Fog of War has completely reinvigorated my love for this series. I can't wait for the next one!