The Surgeon's Mate

By: Patrick O'Brian

Narrated by: Patrick Tull

Publisher's summary

Jack Aubrey, Post Captain in the British Royal Navy, is suffused with happiness. The Shannon's engagement with the U.S. Chesapeake off the New England coast has resulted in victory, just another in a long string of them for Aubrey, nicknamed Lucky Jack for his tendency to win big. But Jack is less sure-footed by land than by sea. Trying desperately to conceal from his wife Sophie the details of an untoward liaison with a lady claiming a baby, and wrestling with speculators who are trying to rob him of every farthing he ever pirated, Jack is making a poor show at civilized life.

Meanwhile, his best friend, surgeon and scientist Stephen Maturin, is enjoying unprecedented success. In possession of papers that would make Napoleon blanch, Stephen supplements his espionage activities by delivering lectures at the French Institute on such rarities as the extinct avifauna of Rodriguez, and by spending time in the company of the fiery Diana Villiers.

Don't miss the rest of the Aubrey/Maturin series.

©1980 Patrick O'Brian (P)2003 Recorded Books, LLC

Show more Show less

Critic reviews

"Splendid escape. Literate and amusing." (Kirkus)
"Vividly detailed 19th-century settings and dramatic tension punctuated with flashes of wry humor make O'Brian's nautical adventure a splendid treat." (Publishers Weekly)

Show more Show less

5 out of 5 stars

By Grey Beard on 08-22-21

We just can’t stop this series!

We have enjoyed these immensely and remain amazed at the historical content and fresh storylines. We have purchased other books but are delaying their start as we keep moving to new titles in this series.

Show more Show less

5 out of 5 stars

By RCS Bldr on 02-25-18

Lots of early 19th century sea and other history

Lots of early 19th century sea and other history about the War of 1812 and Napoleonic times from an English perspective - a great listen

Show more Show less

5 out of 5 stars

By J. Fulton on 05-11-22

Another great story

These are excellent. Great story and great narration. If you enjoy the age of sail these books are a must.

Show more Show less

5 out of 5 stars

By Dolphin Stryker on 10-27-16

Surgeon's mate

Excellent yarn. Totally absorbed in the entire series to date. Cannot seem to stop or take a break. Look forward to every opportunity to listen to the next chapter!

Show more Show less

5 out of 5 stars

By SeanO on 06-23-20

O'Brian and Tull Are Superb

I never really got O'Brian until Tull read it to me. I have listened to this over and over.

Show more Show less

5 out of 5 stars

By Lora L. Walker on 09-25-23

Peril in the Tower

Patrick Tull brings Steven Maturin to life and suspends his life by a hostile French thread.

Show more Show less

5 out of 5 stars

By Anne W. on 12-12-23

Great Storytelling and Great Narration

The story is irresistible for its humanity, its humor, and its vivid and thrilling plot. The delightful and compelling sea story set believably and with wonderful detail during the early 19th century will appeal to anyone who likes a fun fast-paced novel.

Show more Show less

5 out of 5 stars

By RJWA on 12-23-16

The plot thickens, delightfully

Where does The Surgeon's Mate rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

The entire Aubrey/Maturin series ranks as one of my favorite of all time. These books are detailed, fascinating, and charming. The characters, even the cantankerous ones, are compelling. I love them all.

Who was your favorite character and why?

I think Aubrey is probably my favorite, today. It could by Diana tomorrow, or Maturin. Aubrey is very funny, often without realizing it. He is truly a man's man, but with a gentle heart that can't resist the ladies. He is gallant, foolhardy, brilliant and all things engaging.

Which character – as performed by Patrick Tull – was your favorite?

I like his females characters. I also appreciate his pauses that carry with them some unspoken detail, we the reader/listener can use to color in added meaning.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, but i parcel it out so it lasts longer.

Any additional comments?

I am looking forward to my next long drive so I can permit myself to listen to the next one in the series.

Show more Show less

5 out of 5 stars

By LaRinda on 04-21-18

Reliably entertaining

This book was a great companion on my last business trip. I am so impressed how these books never disappoint. Characters, action and a real story, woven into a mix of fiction and history.

Show more Show less

5 out of 5 stars

By Joshua on 07-12-18

Splendidly read

Certainly one of the best in the series, with some truly epic scenes. Funny, too.

Show more Show less