Lords of the Ocean - by James L Nelson (Paperback)

About the Book

A seasoned mariner puts America's war for independence in a new light as he tells the story of Captain Biddlecomb and his mission to ferry Benjamin Franklin across the North Atlantic to France. The order is part of a grand scheme to gain the country's support for the colonial uprising.

Book Synopsis

James L. Nelson's Revolution at sea saga has brought to life a never-before-seen side of America's war for independence. With the expertise of a seasoned mariner, a historian's vivid attention to detail, and a natural gift for sensational storgtelling, "the American counterpart to Patrick O'Brian" (David Brink) carries us along on his bold and stirring course through history.
After ferrying General George Washington's troops across the East River and through the hell known as the Battle of Long Island, Captain Isaac Biddlecomb receives a monumental order. He is to transport to France the most powerful secret weapon in the country's arsenal -- scientist, philosopher, and spirit of the enlightenment Dr. Benjamin Franklin. With a new team of men forging through the wintry North Atlantic, and braving the cordon of the Royal Navy, Biddlecomb's seemingly simple mission is just the first volley in a grand scheme: to topple France's neutrality by gaining its vital support, and turn the colonial uprising into a full-scale world war for freedom.

Review Quotes

Booklist A real page-turner, with plenty of first-class fight scenes for aficionados of sailing warfare.

Patrick O'Brian author of the Aubrey/Maturin series Nelson writes with the eagerness of a young man sailing his first command.

About the Author

James L. Nelson is a native of Maine and a former professional square-rig sailor. He now lives Down East with his wife and children, where he continues to write and maintain his involvement with traditional sail. He is the author of By Force of Arms, The Maddest Idea, The Continental Risque, and the newest Revolution at Sea novel All the Brave Fellows, currently available in hardcover from Pocket Books. His Web site can be found at

www.jamesinelson.com.