It begins with a desperate escape from an enemy shore. Next, a happy wedding and, somewhat unrelated, a bit of public speaking and a race riot.

And then, Captain Alexander Clay and the crew of the frigate HMS Titan are off to join the inshore squadron of the Channel Fleet blockading the French coast. The Titan is placed on detached service, which allows a certain amount of discretion to bolster the efforts of a French Royalist movement that hopes to unseat the unruly revolutionary forces controlling France. They are working with Major Fraser, a Scottish-born British spy, and his French connection, Count Louis D'Arzon, to bolster the efforts of the Choannerie, an ambitious band of Royalist rebels who need training and supplies. Their plan of attack seems solid, until a sudden betrayal has them fighting for their lives.

Unbeknownst to Clay, the count carries a secret shame, and the major carries a secret desire for vengeance. Combined, those hidden factors could spell disaster for both the mission and the crew of the Titan.

Along the way, there's a bit of cat and mouse with a French ship, the Moselle. There's also a bit of below-deck drama with a new crewman who claims to have the Sight, playing heavily on the natural superstitions of British sailors and causing no end of trouble among the crew.

Allan and his creation, Alexander Clay, provide readers with a top-notch series of naval adventures. Clay, far from perfect, is a relatable protagonist who has gathered a competent group of officers and a loyal crew; he's a bold commander and never shy about conflict, but he doesn't always make the smartest decisions, and sometimes his ship and crew pay a heavy price.

If you haven't started this series yet -- what are you waiting for?

[ visit Philip K. Allan's website ]