Engelstalig. Historical novel. The 18th novel in the Aubrey–Maturin series — finds Captain Jack Aubrey in uncertain waters, both literally and figuratively. Having returned from missions on the African slave coast, Aubrey’s squadron is dispersed, and he fears being “yellowed”: promoted but given no squadron, effectively sidelined. Meanwhile, Dr. Stephen Maturin returns from a mission in France with news that Chile needs English officers to help in its struggle for independence. Aubrey, now aboard HMS Bellona, takes part in blockade duty off Brest, captures a rich French privateer, and weathers storms and political intrigue. On land, he opposes the enclosure of common land near his estate, making enemies. As peace with Napoleon seems to draw near, Aubrey suspends himself from the Navy list to avoid being inactive, and Maturin arranges for a South American mission. But just when things look settled, they receive orders: Napoleon has escaped from Elba, and Aubrey is called back into action. Softcover, 320 blz. Jaar: 2022. 1e druk, 1997. HarperCollins Publishers (UK), London. In prima staat, lichte gebruikssporen.