• The Fortune of War

  • Aubrey/Maturin Series, Book 6
  • By: Patrick O'Brian
  • Narrated by: Patrick Tull
  • Length: 13 hrs and 10 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (2,158 ratings)

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The Fortune of War  By  cover art

The Fortune of War

By: Patrick O'Brian
Narrated by: Patrick Tull
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Publisher's summary

The H.M.S. Leopard pulled into the bay of Pulo Batang looking more like a shabby merchant ship that a man-of-war. The crew had endured a calamitous voyage plagued by gaol-fever, pursued by the Dutch Waakzaamheid, and struck by an iceberg. Suffice it to say, Jack Aubrey was ready for home.

The return journey aboard La Fleche proves delightful for both Aubrey and his particular friend. Stephen Maturin, with high winds and beautiful skies. It is when La Fleche nears the coast of Brazil that tragedy strikes. Accidental fire ravages the ship, forcing the crew into lifeboats. Rescued eventually by the Java, Aubrey and Maturin meet with yet another deterrent to their journey home when the Java engages the U.S.S. Constitution in battle, and loses. Aubrey, now a POW in Boston, waits for word of a prisoner exchange, while Maturin renews his friendship with the raven-haired expatriate, Diana Villiers.

Don't miss the rest of the Aubrey/Maturin series.
©1979 Patrick O'Brian (P)2003 Recorded Books, LLC.

Critic reviews

"The Fortune of War is a marvelously full-flavored, engrossing book, which towers over its current rivals in the genre like a three-decker over a ship's longboat." (Times Literary Supplement)

What listeners say about The Fortune of War

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Outstanding!

Patrick Tull is the only narrator I trust for these books! His superb delivery of the individual characters makes the interactions come to life. As an American, as well as a Marine, my only issue with this book was a profound guilt in rooting for my two favorite protagonists in actions I knew had historical truth. You won't find Captain Aubrey commanding from the quarter deck of his own vessel for most of this one, but it has been one of my favorites of the series! 10 out of 10, and a must listen for fans of Master and Commander!

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Wonderful series

It is always fun to find a series that matches moments in real history and then have the joy of reading about that as well.

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Exciting!

This is a novel with a variety of settings and conflicts: a ship destroyed by storm, Jack and Stephan in great danger, intrigue with French and American spies, and, finally, an exciting sea battle. And through all this, Patrick Tull creates the emotions and actions of a host of characters. An excellent novel in Patrick O'Brien's captivating Aubrey/Maturin series.

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One of the best books in the Aubrey/Maturin series

The story has everything a good story needs - adventure, humor, intrigue, suspense, well formed characters, and amazing writing . The characters come alive with Patrick Tull’s terrific narration. I simply cannot recommend this book more.

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Fantastic Series!

I've loved ever book of this series so far. About to start the next one!

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Clandestine work

Another great story by such an insightful, witty, and remarkable author. The French always get such a bad rep, Hope to see some French resistance to Bonaparte.

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When were steel and ships were wood.

Accurate history and portrayal of seafarers and their way of life both ashore and at sea.

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Too much time on land

Another great book but IMO not quite as good as the previous ones. A little too much time spent on land. I really like the sea adventures more. This book is more concerned with Maturin’s espionage and Jack is in rehabilitation for most of the story. However, I still highly recommend and I shall move on to the next book.

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Nostalgic action in the age of sail

Historical accuracy in the details of sailing ships at war was fascinating as ever. Aubrey and Maturin never disappoint, and the doctor gains greater depth in his extra duties. Great stuff with the frigate battles HMS Java, HMS Shannon, USS Constitution and USS Chesapeake.

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Started Oh So Long Ago

I started the sixth book Aubrey/Maturin Series oh so long ago. Over three months to be exact. Due to life, I took a hiatus from reading. I wasn't too sure that I wanted to read, "The Fortune of War" again or skip the book and read something else. I've forgotten where I left off. I'm glad that I started the book over because I'm enjoying this series very much.

I apologize for this review. It's very weak. I'm trying to get my reading and writing habits back.

Still rusty.

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4 people found this helpful