Hornblower : Beat to Quarters by C. S. Forester
|
List Price: Our Price: $5.98 You Save: $8.01 (57%) Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days Buy Used: from $0.65 (click here) Category: Book See more book details and other editions |
|---|
Book Reviews of Hornblower : Beat to Quarters
Book Review: A ripping adventure of victory at sea! Unforgettable
Summary: 5 Stars
This book is the 5th in the "Horatio Hornblower" series by C.S. Forester. It is in my opinion the best book of the series, and this is high praise, because this is one of the best adventure series in all of literature.In this novel, Captain Hornblower, Captain of HMS Lydia, a British frigate, is dispatched to the west coast of South America, on a mission to make trouble for Spain, which has allied itself with Napoleon, against whom Britain is in a desperate struggle. At first, all seems to go well, but events beyond Hornblower's control intervene, and soon he is fighting battles and using his wits. It is all wonderful adventure.
Forester's writing is taut. His storyline is brisk. The novel moves from adventure to adventure in a manner that is absolutely absorbing. This book never drags. This is a story of adventure and hardship. Captain Hornblower, El Supremo, Lady Barbara are all unforgettable. The battles at sea are so real you can smell the powder. This is a great story.
This is one you'll want in hardcover, because you'll want to read it over and over and perhaps later introduce to your children and friends.
Book Review: The original Hornblower novel
Summary: 5 Stars
Even though this is the first Hornblower novel written, I started reading the series in the Chronology of his life. The first was Mr. Midshipman Hornblower. This is the sixth book that I have read.
Now that I have read this book and if I was asked which order to read them, I could argue for either way. This book does an excellent job introducing Hornblower and leaves you wondering what adventures he had prior to the events of this book. I'm happy with the order that I read the books, but would have been just as happy reading them in the order written.
The major item that seemed like a discrepancy from the earlier books is that Lt. Bush seemed to be a new acquaintance of his on this voyage, though the other books showed that they had a long history together.
Either way, I can see why this book started a whole series of sequels. It is great story telling with interesting characters and great lessons on seamanship. I highly recommend this book to lovers of action and adventure who like a thinking hero.
Book Review: The best Hornblower book to start with
Summary: 5 Stars
Although Midshipman Hornblower describes the beginning of Horatio Hornblower's naval career, Beat to Quarters was the first Hornblower book that Forester wrote. As a result, it stands well on its own, and doesn't require any background provided by the other books in the series. It is also a much better book than Midshipman Hornblower. For want of a better comparison, Midshipman Hornblower introduces and describes the character, whereas Beat to Quarters truly develops the character.
Additionally, Beat to Quarters is simply a compelling read. Hornblower begins by sailing his ship to the Pacific coast of Central America, where he is to foment a rebellion against Spain. His mission is complicated by the rapidly changing diplomatic situation in Europe, which causes many plot twists. We are also introduced to an interesting lady, whose presence threatens to complicate Horatio's own domestic tranquility. Throughout, Horatio Hornblower is an intriguing character, and this book is worth reading.
Book Review: Best Hornblower Book of All!
Summary: 5 Stars
The best book in the series, this one presents HH with some of his hardest obstacles yet,to be unparalleled by any of the other books. In this installment, C.S Forrester's indomitable charactor is sent away with a very "daunting set of orders" to the Pacific coast of the Central American isthmus, being instructed to aid an insane land-owner in a revolt against Spanish control, to open up a route across the isthmus, and to encourage trade- all under the menace of the Spanish 50- gun ship, the Natividad.CSF reaches his pinnacle with several stunning single- ship duels in which Hornblower pitts his diminutive but capable 36- gun Lydia against the fearsome Natividad.These are, by far, the best battles in the series, and that's saying a lot.
And then, of course, there is yet another problem for HH- the quick- witted and determinded Lady Barbara, to whom the captain must pledge a passage to England, although already harrassed by the turns of fortune he previously had to endure.
Book Review: One of the Series' Best!
Summary: 5 Stars
Though 'Beat to Quarters' falls in the middle of the Hornblower series it was the first written, as well as one of the best. The story takes place when Hornblower is ordered to assist colonial Spanish rebels. After defeating a Spanish warship and handing the vessel over to the rebels Hornblower recieves shocking news: Napoleon has invaded Spain. Now that Spain has become Britian's ally Hornblower must reagain control of the Spanish warship from the rebels and give it back to the rightful owners. The action that follows is the naval adventure that author C. S. Forester is known for. Also, Forester throws his gallant protagonist a curve ball by introducing him to Lady Pamela Wellesely, sister of the Duke of Wellington. The attraction is sudden and unexpected but more than a little complicated. One of the best novels in the series, 'Beat to Quarters' is consistantly exciting and absolutly entertaining. Fans of the series and those new to it will applaud Forester's first Hornblower novel.