Patrick OBrians Aubrey-Maturin tales are widely acknowledged to be the greatest series of historical novels ever written. To commemorate the 40th anniversary of their beginning with Master & Commander these evocative stories are being re-issued in paperback with smart new livery. This is the ninth book in the series. Uniquely among authors of naval fiction Patrick OBrian allows his characters to develop with experience. The Jack Aubrey of Treasons Harbour has a record of successes equal to that of the most brilliant of Nelsons band of brothers & he is no less formidable or decisive in action or strategy. But he is wiser kinder gentler too. Much of the plot of Treasons Harbour depends on intelligence & counter-intelligence a field in which Aubreys friend Stephen Maturin excels. Through him we get a clearer insight into the life & habits of the sea officers of Nelsons time than we would ever obtain seeing things through their own eyes. There is plenty of action & excitement in this novel but it is the atmosphere of a Malta crowded with senior officers waiting for news of what the French are up to & wondering whether the war will end before their turn comes for prize money & for fame that is here so freshly & vividly conveyed.