The Surgeon's Mate

Aubrey/Maturin Series, Book 7

By: Patrick O'Brian

Narrated by: Patrick Tull

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

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)

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We have enjoyed these immensely and remain amazed at the historical content and fresh storylines.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.

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

Another great story

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

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!

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.