Patrick O’Brian’s 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 and Commander, these evocative stories are being re-issued in paperback with smart new livery. This is the nineteenth book in the series. Following the extraordinary success of The Yellow Admiral, this latest Aubrey-Maturin novel brings alive the sights and sounds of North Africa as well as the great naval battles in the days immediately following Napoleon’s escape from Elba. Aubrey and Maturin are in the thick of the plots and counterplots to prevent his regaining power. Coloured by conspiracies in the Adriatic, in the Berber and Arab lands of the southern shores of the Mediterranean, by night actions, fierce pursuits, slave-trading and lion hunts, The Hundred Days is a masterpiece. ‘O’Brian is far and away the best of the Napoleonic storytellers and The Hundred Days is one of the best of the series: a classic naval adventure, crammed with incident, superbly plotted and utterly gripping!This is O’Brian at his brilliant, entertaining best and when he is on this form the rest of us who write of the Napoleonic conflict might as well give up and try a new career. Fans of the series will need no encouragement to buy this book, but if you are new to Aubrey and Maturin then this is as splendid an introduction as you could wish for.’ Bernard Cornwell
Embark on a thrilling naval adventure with "The Hundred Days," the nineteenth installment in Patrick O'Brian's critically acclaimed Aubrey-Maturin series. This paperback edition, marking the 40th anniversary of the series, offers a fresh cover design while delivering the same compelling storytelling that has captivated readers for decades. Set against the backdrop of Napoleon's dramatic escape from Elba in 1815, this novel plunges Captain Jack Aubrey and his trusted friend, the physician and intelligence agent Dr. Stephen Maturin, into a world of political intrigue and maritime conflict. With Napoleon's shadow looming large over Europe, Aubrey and Maturin find themselves embroiled in clandestine operations across the Mediterranean. Their mission: to thwart Napoleon's resurgence and maintain the fragile balance of power. O'Brian masterfully weaves together historical accuracy with gripping narrative, painting a vivid picture of the era. "The Hundred Days" transports you to the bustling ports of North Africa, the treacherous waters of the Adriatic Sea, and the opulent salons where diplomats and spies weave their intricate webs. Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the 19th century as Aubrey and Maturin navigate a landscape teeming with danger and deception. Beyond the naval battles and political machinations, "The Hundred Days" explores the enduring bond between Aubrey and Maturin. Their contrasting personalities Aubrey, the bold and decisive naval officer, and Maturin, the introspective and enigmatic scholar create a dynamic partnership that has become a hallmark of the series. Their shared adventures test the limits of their friendship and reveal the depths of their loyalty. This installment offers a rich tapestry of adventure, intrigue, and historical detail, showcasing O'Brian's exceptional talent for character development and storytelling. Expect thrilling naval engagements, daring espionage missions, and unexpected encounters with colorful characters. From fierce pursuits across the Mediterranean to perilous lion hunts in Berber lands, "The Hundred Days" delivers a relentlessly engaging reading experience. As Bernard Cornwell aptly stated, "O'Brian is far and away the best of the Napoleonic storytellers," and "The Hundred Days" stands as a testament to his brilliance. Whether you're a longtime fan of the Aubrey-Maturin series or a newcomer seeking a captivating historical adventure, this book is sure to enthrall. Dive into a world of nautical adventure, political intrigue, and enduring friendship with "The Hundred Days," a true masterpiece of historical fiction. Prepare to be transported to a bygone era and swept away by the unparalleled storytelling of Patrick O'Brian.