Heart of Oak: The Bolitho Novels #27

Great read! I would highly recommend this book. This has many full battles and local tells to tell. There is also the growth of to gentlemen (Captain and midshipman) and the Captain's coxstain.

Heart of Oak is the 27th and last Bolitho novel. . It is a fitting finish, wrapping up the Family’s time in service to the Crown. One would think that after the Wars with France, there would be little adventure for the Navy. But circumstances in North Africa continue to be a thorn in the side of humanity. It’s been a great journey.

Lovers of early 19th century sea novels and period dramas will find plenty to entertain them. Again. The characters, relationships and history of the abolition series are terrific.Mr Kent, keep that 32 pounder in your yard double shotted. One can never trust the French. 😉

I first started reading the Richard Bolitho books in Boston back in the late 60's as a young Sailor and have been ever addicted since. This latest novel upholds Douglas Reeman's (Alexander Kent's) fine tradition of Nepolianic War era British wooden sailing ships and iron men. Unlike the late Patrick O'Brien's books that tend to ramble on (I have never been able to hold interest in one of his novels), these books are readable and you understand the workings of a man-o-war at sea and in time of battle. His characters are human, you get to know them as old friends, you understand their fallacies and strong points, you share their good times and grieve for the departed. Excellent book Mr. Reeman!

I just finished the last one, #27. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the Bolitho family, the remarkable loves of their lives and the often-brutal experiences of the King's loyal naval force. The last three books were somewhat less fulfilling as a reader, with a large quantity of repetition and almost extraneous character definition. But still, overall, I am so glad to have had the series recommended to me by a friend. (he suggested I follow these up with the books by Dudley Pope. Dudley- here I come!)

Still a great story, but with less sailing/action than earlier parts of the series - I may not get the next & last book.

I makes you feel that you're actually on board at the time you really get to know the characters. A superb writer

An excellent story as are all books written by Alexander Kent ( Douglass Reeman ). I highly recommend his books to anyone interested in books written in the tradition of Horatio Hornblower ( C.S. Forester ). I have all of the Bolitho series and wish there were more . I am a new customer to Amazon ,but I will be a faithful one from now on.

Well stiffened as ever if a little repetative in places. Some story lines I seem to remember from some of his other bookxs.

Very disjointed between home and sea. Too repetitive on the running of the ship and not enough story. Pity could have been so much better

This book is one of many that illustrates the tenacity and resource Reid of the navy in the early days of the service. It

Getting a bit repetitive now but I have 4 Bolitho back to back

I enjoyed this book.