58 pages 1 hour read

Master and Commander

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1969

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Book Brief

Patrick O'Brian

Master and Commander

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1969
Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Napoleonic Wars • 1800s

Publication Year

1969

Publisher

W. W. Norton & Company

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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Super Short Summary

Master and Commander by Patrick O'Brian follows Jack Aubrey's first appointment as captain of the HMS Sophie and his growing friendship with Irish Catalan physician Stephen Maturin. They embark on a mission to capture enemy ships during the Napoleonic Wars, leading to the capture of the Spanish ship Cacafuego and facing challenges from rivalries, personal conflicts, and naval battles. The book contains racist, misogynistic, and homophobic language.

Adventurous

Suspenseful

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

4.3

68,302 ratings

77%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Patrick O'Brian's Master and Commander is widely praised for its historical accuracy and rich nautical detail, appealing to fans of naval fiction. The character development, particularly of Captain Aubrey and Dr. Maturin, is highly lauded. However, some readers find the technical jargon daunting and the pacing uneven. Overall, it's a compelling read for history enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Master and Commander?

A reader who enjoys detailed historical fiction, naval adventures, and rich character development will find Master and Commander by Patrick O'Brian captivating. Fans of C.S. Forester's Horatio Hornblower series and Bernard Cornwell's Sharpe novels will appreciate O'Brian's meticulous research and dynamic storytelling.

4.3

68,302 ratings

77%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Jack Aubrey

An ambitious officer in the British Navy who receives his first ship command in his twenties while also managing personal challenges and relationships. Known for his large size, bright blue eyes, blond hair, and a deep tan, he is a skilled sailor with a passion for music.

A physician and naturalist joining the British Navy as the ship's surgeon, offering insight into both human and animal behavior. Of Irish Catalan descent, he is characterized by his small stature, pale complexion, and intellectual pursuits.

The Irish Catholic lieutenant on the ship, serving as a stern and honorable presence with a conflicted sense of loyalty. Known for his dark-red hair and green eyes, he presents a foil to Aubrey with shared bravery but differing backgrounds.

The wife of a captain with whom Aubrey is romantically involved, known for her commanding presence and beauty. She is musically inclined, often drawing attention at social gatherings.

Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Napoleonic Wars • 1800s

Publication Year

1969

Publisher

W. W. Norton & Company

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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