Command A King's Ship

At the Helm of Honor and War

In Command A King’s Ship, Alexander Kent returns readers to the tumultuous seas of the Napoleonic Wars, where loyalty, courage, and leadership are tested against the relentless forces of nature and battle. Captain Richard Bolitho, newly promoted and eager to justify the trust placed in him, finds himself entrusted with the command of a mighty ship of the line. The fate of his men—and perhaps the destiny of nations—rests on his decisions as he navigates treacherous waters both literal and political. With the roar of cannon fire and the tension of shifting alliances, Bolitho must balance duty to his king with the welfare of those under his command, forging a path through adversity that will define his career and character.

The Price of Victory on the High Seas

From the chilling embrace of Atlantic storms to the brooding threat of enemy fleets, Bolitho’s voyage is fraught with peril at every turn. The ship’s decks become a crucible where ambition, camaraderie, and sacrifice are put to the ultimate test. Kent’s attention to historical detail and naval strategy plunges the reader into the heart of 18th-century maritime warfare, capturing the thrill of pursuit and the agony of loss. As Bolitho wrestles with orders from above and the realities of life at sea, he must earn not only the respect of his crew but also come to terms with the weighty legacy of those who commanded before him. Each battle, both personal and professional, brings Bolitho closer to the leader he was destined to become.

About the Author

Alexander Kent, the pen name of Douglas Reeman, is celebrated for his gripping and authentic naval adventures that bring the Age of Sail to life. With firsthand knowledge of the sea and a storyteller’s flair, Kent has captivated readers worldwide with his Richard Bolitho series. Command A King’s Ship exemplifies his talent for blending riveting action, rich historical context, and deeply human characters. Kent’s novels are a tribute to the valor and hardship of those who served upon the world’s oceans, and his enduring legacy continues to inspire fans of maritime fiction everywhere.