I've decided to revisit some older books that I ranked highly but haven't reviewed. Partly because I enjoyed them at the time and partly because I want to see if my original rating still holds up.

First off the ranks is the Hornblower series. I first read this back in 2003 after seeing the film Master and Commander: Far Side Of The World. While that has its own series, it felt a little overwhelming so I went with what was perceived to be an easier nautical series to get into... and now instead of continuing that series I'm re-reading Hornblower... :/

Sorry, that was a tangent. This book still holds up, it's an excellent introduction to the Hornblower universe. He's awkward and gangly, and still learning to be a seaman. He comes across as a bit of a shy nerdy type, but instead of letting his self doubt overwhelm him he uses it to propel himself through life, often in insanely dangerous situations.

This book is essentially a prequel as it was published long after Hornblower was an established captain, but it's written in a way that is a nice introduction to the character and the world. Hornblower is learning about seafaring as we are.

My biggest criticism is that Hornblower is the only developed character in this book. There are several other characters mentioned, but they're little more than names on a page and will often disappear completely by the next chapter.

However that is a minor detraction from an otherwise enjoyable book.

Great book! I felt I flew through the pages!

Not as good as Conrad but good try.

Almost done...

A Cargo of Rice was the best of these

This book was nautical adventure perfection. Each chapter is another episode in Hornblower’s amazing career in the British navy. This first installment in the series has been sitting on my bookshelf, unread, for 20 years! Two decades! It’s a bit embarrassing, really. I’m so glad that I finally read it. Can’t wait to read the second...also on my bookshelf. Very good on audio, as well.