Joseph Delaney used to be an English teacher, before becoming the best-selling author of the Spook's series, which has been published in 30 countries and sold over 4.5 million copies worldwide. The first book, The Spook's Apprentice, was adapted into a major motion picture starring Jeff Bridges and Julianne Moore.

Joseph Delaney

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Alexander Kent

Richard Bolitho returns in this captivating page-turner set on the high seas from multi-million copy seller Alexander Kent. Fans of Patrick O'Brian and C.S. Forester will not be disappointed! 
 
'One of our foremost writers of naval fiction' - THE SUNDAY TIMES 
'Good characters, good story, good action.' -- ***** Reader review 
'Leaves you wanting more' -- ***** Reader review 
'Every 'Kent' book is a joy to read, immersing you in this bygone era of seafaring.' -- ***** Reader review 
'Just good nautical escape-ism, with a solid basis in history.' -- ***** Reader review 
'Band Of Brothers is a classic Kent/Bolitho epic which I hardly put down for days until it was reluctantly finished.' -- ***** Reader review 
 
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1774: The new year seems to offer Richard Bolitho and his friend Martyn Dancer the culmination of a dream. Both have been recommended for promotion, although they have not yet gained the coveted lieutenant's commission. 
 
But a routine passage from Plymouth to Guernsey in an untried schooner becomes, for Bolitho, a passage from midshipman to King's officer, tempering the promise of the future with the bitter price of maturity. 
 
Will he rise to the occasion? 
 
Richard Bolitho's adventures continue in Stand into Danger.

Band Of Brothers

(The Richard Bolitho adventures: 3): a riveting and fast-paced naval adventure from the master storyteller of the sea

With the epic scenes of action, powerful characterisation and the authentic period detail that we have come to expect from multi-million copy seller Alexander Kent, this all-action naval adventure is perfect for fans of Patrick O'Brian and C. S. Forester. You'll be hooked from page one! 
 
'One of our foremost writers of naval fiction' -- Sunday Times 
'Shipwreck, survival ... a spirited battle ... a splendid yarn' -- The Times 
'I recommend it to anyone who liked Sharp, Hornblower and Master and Commander...this series is the daddy!' -- ***** Reader review 
'This whole series of books is brilliant.' -- ***** Reader review 
'The story line was gripping, felt the sea in my face and guns in my ears' -- ***** Reader review 
'These books by Alexander Kent are very well written. I find them riveting and always find myself engrossed completely when I begin reading.' -- ***** Reader review 
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1801: After eight years of war between Britain and France there is at last a rumour of peace. But the old enemies are well aware that any settlement will be only a breathing space in which to recover from their terrible losses. To obtain the best terms the French muster a show of strength from Biscay to the Channel ports. At the British Admiralty there are some who see a daring opportunity to even the score at any negotiation table - and who better to undertake it than the young Rear Admiral Bolitho! 
 
Bolitho's small squadron is still repairing the scars of battle earned at Copenhagen - and as he receives his orders from London, he is, for the first time in his life, torn between the demands of duty and his real desire to marry. 
When the squadron sails it is joined by an additional ship, a frigate with many memories from the past. 
 
But where Bolitho's flag leads so his captains must follow, if necessary to the brink of disaster - for theirs is a tradition of victory. 
 
Bolitho's adventures continue in Success to the Brave.

A Tradition of Victory

(The Richard Bolitho adventures: 16): lose yourself in this rip-roaring naval yarn from the master storyteller of the sea

Fans of Patrick O'Brian and C. S. Forester will not be disappointed with this incredible naval adventure from multi-million copy seller Alexander Kent. With its authentic depiction of life at sea in battle, and its tightly crafted plot and characters, you'll fall for it hook, line and sinker! 
 
'One of our foremost writers of naval fiction' -- Sunday Times 
'His dashing character Richard Bolitho is one of the best things to happen to the sea yarn since Hornblower' -- Daily Express 
'The storytelling has an easy mastery, how well Kent knows the psychology of naval men' -- Sunday Telegraph 
'Thrilling and a delight to read' -- ***** Reader review 
'Gripping and accurate' -- ***** Reader review 
'A truly brilliant bit of work' -- ***** Reader review 
'Kept me enthralled' -- ***** Reader review 
'Hard to put them down when you start' -- ***** Reader review 
 
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1798: Richard Bolitho prepares to re-enter the Mediterranean. There are rumours of a massive French armada and of the latest type of artillery - and Bolitho's orders are to seek out the enemy and to discover the intentions of his growing force. 
 
Bolitho is well aware that there are others within his ships who are no less dangerous than the enemy - and during the weeks and months in which the squadron faces the hazards of the weather and French broadsides alike, Bolitho knows that far more than his own future is at stake. 
 
A fleet, even a nation, could depend on his decisions and, when he places his squadron between the Nile and the power of France, he must accept the price of the challenge. 
 
Bolitho's adventures continue in The Inshore Squadron

Signal Close Action

(The Richard Bolitho adventures: 14): a fast-paced, all-action adventure on the high seas from the master storyteller of the sea

This naval page-turner from the pen of the master storyteller of the sea, multi-million copy seller Alexander Kent, is full of action, political intrigue and personal tragedy and is perfect for fans of Patrick O'Brian and C. S. Forester. Dive in and get straight to the heart of the action! 
 
'One of our foremost writers of naval fiction' -- Sunday Times 
'Shipwreck, survival ... a spirited battle ... a splendid yarn'' -- The Times 
'Really good book, needed to keep turning the pages' -- ***** Reader review 
'This series is the daddy!' -- ***** Reader review 
'A jolly good read' -- ***** Reader review 
'Great novel, great writing, always guaranteed to keep me interested' -- ***** Reader review 
'Excellent read, you're there with Boltho!' -- ***** Reader review 
'Exciting throughout. Brilliant!' -- ***** Reader review 
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1803: Vice-Admiral Sir Richard Bolitho finds himself the new master of the Argonaute, a French flagship taken in battle. With the Peace of Amiens in ruins, he must leave the safety of Falmouth. 
 
 What lies ahead is the grim reality of war at close quarters - where Bolitho will be called upon to anticipate the overall intention of the French fleet. But the battle has also become a personal vendetta between himself and the French admiral who formerly sailed the Argonaute. 
 
 Bolitho and his men are driven to a final rendezvous where no quarter is asked or given.

Colours Aloft!

(The Richard Bolitho adventures: 18): an all-action and unputdownable adventure from the master storyteller of the sea

Perfect for fans of Patrick O'Brian and C. S. Forester, this is an enthralling, edge-of-your-seat maritime tale from multi-million copy seller Alexander Kent - a real page turner! 
 
'One of our foremost writers of naval fiction' - THE SUNDAY TIMES 
'This is the third time I have started reading the Bolitho novels. Never get bored and especially not with this one' -- ***** Reader review 
'The only downside of this book is when it ends'-- ***** Reader review 
'I can't get enough of Bolitho'-- ***** Reader review 
'I don't think there is a better writer in this genre.' -- ***** Reader review 
'Action and intrigue all the way.' -- ***** Reader review 
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1774: Bolitho is now a newly appointed third lieutenant joining the 28-gun frigate Destiny at Plymouth. It is a far step from midshipman's berth to wardroom - and, at a time when most of the fleet is laid up, Bolitho is considered fortunate. 
 
 Bolitho's promotion is tinged by personal sadness, but his new captain soon points out that Bolitho's loyalty is to him, the ship and His Britannic Majesty - in that order. 
 
Despatched on a secret mission far south to Rio and then to the Caribbean, Destiny and her company face the hazards of conspiracy, treason and piracy - and, as the little ship sails on, Bolitho has to learn how to accept his new responsibilities as a King's officer. 
 
All amid broadside battles at sea and the clash of swords in hand-to-hand actions...! 
 
Richard Bolitho's adventures continue in In Gallant Company. Have you read Midshipman Bolitho and the Avenger and Band of Brothers where his adventures begin?

Stand Into Danger

(The Richard Bolitho adventures: 4): a gripping, action-packed adventure on the high seas from the master storyteller of the sea

Fans of Patrick O'Brian and C. S. Forester will love this captivating, vivid and exciting page-turner from multi-million copy seller Alexander Kent - guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat! 
 
'Shipwreck, survival... a spirited battle... a splendid yarn' -- Times 
'One of our foremost writers of naval fiction' -- Sunday Times 
'Alexander Keen is a master of his craft' -- ***** Reader review 
'Seamless fiction at its best' -- ***** Reader review 
'Another great story, gripping to the end' -- ***** Reader review 
'Difficult to put down' -- ***** Reader review 
'Superb' -- ***** Reader review 
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1811: After two and a half months of precious peace in Cornwall with his beloved mistress Catherine, Admiral Richard Bolitho is once again summoned to London. 
 
In defence of an Empire, the Admiralty must quell the unrest in America - or face the war with those who were once friends. For when diplomacy fails, the cannon will speak. 
 
For his daring mission, Bolitho must call on the loyalty of his most trusted officers - and the trust of those he loves the most. Distance too is their enemy, as the Indomitable leads the fleet from Plymouth towards the rich merchant grounds of the Americas. 
 
In the troubled seas from Antigua north to Halifax, Admiral Bolitho's revolutionary 'flying squadron' will face their first and harshest test. For a country's freedom. 
 
For a hero's right to turn his back on the sea ...

For My Country's Freedom

(Richard Bolitho: Book 23)

Fans of Patrick O'Brian and C. S. Forester will love this gripping, all-guns-blazing naval adventure from multi-million copy seller Alexander Kent - full of passion and compassion, you'll won't be able to put this one down...! 
 
'One of our foremost writers of naval fiction' -- Sunday Times 
'Shipwreck, survival ... a spirited battle ... a splendid yarn'' -- The Times 
'Another cracking yarn' -- ***** Reader review 
'Leaves you breathless' -- ***** Reader review 
'Yet another awesome tale from the master storyteller'-- ***** Reader review 
'Draws you in and keeps you engaged the whole way'-- ***** Reader review 
'Excellent book, you feel you are there in the middle of the fighting' -- ***** Reader review 
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1802: Richard Bolitho is summoned to the Admiralty in London and given his orders for a difficult and, to him, distasteful task. Even an advanced promotion to vice-admiral does not compensate for his sudden and thankless mission. Bolitho and his wife are expecting their first child, and for once he is loath to quit the land for the demands of duty. 
 
The Peace of Amiens, signed a few weeks earlier, is already showing signs of strain as the old enemies wrangle over the return of colonial possessions won and lost during the war. In the little sixty-four-gun AchatesBolitho sails West for Boston, and thence to the Caribbean where he must hand over the island of San Felipe to the French. 
 
Bolitho discovers that to be a man of diplomacy is not enough, and as threat and counter-threat weave a web of intrigue around his lonely command, he balances success against the danger to the men who must follow him even to the cannon's mouth.

Success to the Brave

(The Richard Bolitho adventures: 17): a fast-paced naval page-turner from the master storyteller of the sea

It is February 1818, and Adam Bolitho longs for marriage and a safe personal harbour. But with so much of Britain's fleet redundant, he knows he is fortunate to be offered H.M.S. Onward, a new 38-gun frigate whose first mission is not war but diplomacy, as consort to the French frigate Nautilus. 
 
Under the burning sun of North Africa, Bolitho is keenly aware of the envy and ambition among his officers, the troubled, restless spirits of his midshipmen, and the old enemy's proximity. It is only when Nautilus becomes a sacrificial offering on the altar of empire that every man discovers the brotherhood of the sea is more powerful than the bitter memories of an ocean of blood and decades of war.

Heart Of Oak

Let multi-million copy seller Alexander Kent transport you right to the heart of the action in this high-octane, pacy and gripping naval adventure. Fans of Patrick O'Brian and C. S. Forester will not be disappointed. 
 
'One of our foremost writers of naval fiction' - Sunday Times 
'As a former naval officer, Alexander Kent knows what it is like to be at sea' -- The Times 
'Engrossing' -- ***** Reader review 
'Great action, great characters, great adventure' -- ***** Reader review 
'Unexpected twists and turns, fascinating plot lines and gripping descriptions of naval battles' -- ***** Reader review 
'A difficult book to put down!' -- ***** Reader review 
 
***************************************************************************************** 
1792: A troubled peace with France means that the English royal fleet has been left to rot. 
 
Even a frigate captain as famous as Richard Bolitho is forced to swallow his pride and visit the Admiralty daily to plead for a ship. As the clouds of war begin to rise once more over the Channel, he has no choice but to accept an appointment to the Nore. 
 
 With his small flotilla of three topsail cutters, Bolitho sets out to search the coast for seamen who have fled the harsh discipline of His Majesty's Navy for the more tempting rewards of smuggling. But the 'Brotherhood' he comes up against are brutal and dangerous with a secret, sinister trade in human misery. 
 
So when a King's ransom is in peril and Bolitho is ordered to proceed 'with all despatch' to recover it, he has no choice but to rely on the loyalty and courage of his three gallant cutters. 
 
If anyone fulfil this mission, it's Bolitho - but he'll need all his wits, wisdom, might and mettle to succeed... 
 
Bolitho's adventures continue in Form Line of Battle.

With All Despatch

(The Richard Bolitho adventures: 10): more scintillating naval action from the master storyteller of the sea

If you like Patrick O'Brian and C. S. Forester, you will love this all-guns-blazing naval page-turner from multi-million copy seller Alexander Kent - guaranteed to have you hooked from page one! 
 
'One of our foremost writers of naval fiction' -- Sunday Times 
'Shipwreck, survival ... a spirited battle ... a splendid yarn' -- The Times 
'Gripping to the end' -- ***** Reader review 
'Difficult to put down' -- ***** Reader review 
'Superb' -- ***** Reader review 
'Riveting' -- ***** Reader review 
'Exceptionally well written' -- ***** Reader review 
'What a story!' -- ***** Reader review 
 
*********************************************************************************************** 
 
1804: England stands alone against France and the fleets of Spain, expecting an invasion any day. Entrusted with an urgent mission for the King, Vice-Admiral Richard Bolitho hoists his flag above the veteran seventy-four-gun ship Hyperion and sets sail with a new squadron for the Caribbean. 
 
Plagued by the knowledge that both his troubled marriage and the eye injured in his last battle with Contre-Amiral Jobert are worsening, Bolitho is eager to leave England less than three months after his return home. But even his beloved old ship Hyperion, hastily restored from an ignominious existence as a hulk, is full of tormenting memories and lost faces. 
 
 Having navigated several battles along the way, he is roused in Antigua from his darkness of soul by the rediscovery of a passion which defies convention and every risk to his reputation. 
 
His future is full of uncertainty as he sails east to Gibraltar, for a rendezvous that all who follow his flag will remember...

Honour This Day

(The Richard Bolitho adventures: 19): lose yourself in this rip-roaring naval yarn from the master storyteller of the sea

Let the master storyteller of the sea, multi-million copy seller Alexander Kent, transport you to the heart of the action in this no-holds-barred naval adventure. You'll feel like you're on the deck with Bolitho! 
 
'One of our foremost writers of naval fiction' -- Sunday Times 
'Shipwreck, survival ... a spirited battle ... a splendid yarn'' -- The Times 
'A great read from beginning to the end' -- ***** Reader review 
'Keeps you hooked - I was not able to stop reading until the dramatic finale!!!' -- ***** Reader review 
'Edge of your seat reading, most enjoyable' -- ***** Reader review 
'Difficult to put down. Superb' -- ***** Reader review 
'Another masterpiece from Alexander Kent' -- ***** Reader review 
************************************************************************************************** 
1808: As Napoleon holds Portugal and threatens his old ally Spain, Vice-Admiral Sir Richard Bolitho is dispatched once more to the Cape of Good Hope to establish a permanent naval force there. 
 
Setting aside his bitter memories and the anguish of a friendship betrayed, Bolitho takes passage in the ill-fated Golden Plover. With him sail others commanded by duty and lured by danger - and those who wish only to escape. 
 
But when shipwreck and disaster overtake the Golden Plover off the desolate coast of Africa, neither the innocent nor the damned are spared. Beyond the tortured hell of the reef, Bolitho's battle begins - to summon the survivors' last reserves of courage and of hope.

Beyond the Reef

(The Richard Bolitho adventures: 21): an unputdownable naval page-turner from the master storyteller of the sea

Multi-million copy seller Alexander Kent, brings us another rip-roaring and riveting maritime page-turner. Fans of Patrick O'Brian and C. S. Forester will not be disappointed! 
 
'Mr Kent is Forester's direct heir, and is rapidly showing himself an equal in the genre.' -- Sunday Times 
'C. S. Forester never wrote a more exciting novel than Alexander Kent.' -- New York Times Book Review 
'A splendid yarn' -- The Times 
'A tale of angry passion, envy and adventure' -- Bookseller 
'Boy, is this good stuff! Can hardly wait to pick up the next book' -- ***** Reader review 
'The author knows how to keep the reader enthralled' -- ***** Reader review 
'Hard to stop reading' -- ***** Reader review 
'Couldn't put it down from start to finish' -- ***** Reader review 
********************************************************************** 
1778: a seminal year for the young Richard Bolitho... The American War of Independence changes to an all-out struggle for freedom from British rule - and Bolitho takes command of the Sparrow, a small, fast and well-armed sloop of war. 
 
 As the pace of war increases, the Sparrow is called from one crisis to another - and when the great fleets of Britain and France convene on the Chesapeake, Bolitho has to throw aside the early dreams of his first command to find maturity in a sea battle that might decide the fate of a whole continent. 
 
Bolitho's adventures continue in To Glory We Steer.

Sloop Of War

(The Richard Bolitho adventures: 6): a swashbuckling naval tale of derring – do and all-action adventure from the master storyteller of the sea

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