Sloop of War

By: Alexander Kent

Narrated by: Michael Jayston

As the French enter the American War of Independence, young Richard Bolitho is given command of the fast, well-armed sloop Sparrow. He has a chance to prove his ability, but danger threatens - as real and deadly as the enemy itself.

©2006 Alexander Kent (P)2014 Audible, Inc.

Critic reviews

“One of our foremost writers of naval fiction.” ( Sunday Times, London)

British Ship off the US coast 1778

This my third Kent book and I understand this is the 5th book in the series. So far Audible is not carrying all of them. This book provided a different look of the revolution as it is from the British view point. The British are running a blockade off the US coast. Our hero Richard Bolitho is sent off to rescue some British Soldiers and is also successful is destroying a privateer that was plaguing the area. Toward the end of the book he is promoted to Captain and is trying to rescue General Cornwallis but fails to do so. Some nice sea battles in the story as well as intrigue. If you like sea stories of this era you will enjoy this story.

Excellent Reading

Author has done an excellent job giving the reader a realistic look at what it was like seeing in the British Navy in the 1700's. The trails and tribulations of commanded are brought to you are a realistic and accurate portrayal . A very good read.

Revolutionary war English point of view

Would you listen to Sloop of War again? Why?

Spoiler alert, ... the Americans won the Revolutionary War. This book was written from the perspective of the losing side, but I did not realize how much of a Torre I was until I found myself rooting for the English Captain Bolothio.

What other book might you compare Sloop of War to and why?

Any of the Master's and Commander's books by O'Brien. It is the same amazing historical fiction settings with different personalities.

Excellent sea-faring yarn

The narration by Jayston adds a very realistic tone to this novel. His ability to mimic different characters is amazing. (except, possibly, the ladies) I certainly will be looking for more Kent novels narrated by this gentleman. An excellent read.

A Must Read!

Very exciting! Excellent story, with intricate detail that was historically accurate. The narration was superb, with perfect voice inflection that exactly matched the event thus drawing the reader deeper into the story!