Publishers Weekly
Stockwin's by-the-numbers 10th Kydd sea adventure opens as commander Thomas Kydd reclaims the helm of his sloop-of-war, Teazer, bringing along old friend and confidant Nicholas Renzi. Kydd, a former “rakish corsair,” is assigned to join in the coastal defenses of Britain against the invasion by Napoleon's forces, but after engaging in some heavy sea action, Kydd chafes under his new post as “nursemaid” to the Sea Fencibles, the ragtag local defenses. Meanwhile, scholarly former spy Renzi is dispatched to Paris to secretly meet with American inventor Robert Fulton, who has designed and built a submarine for Napoleon. His mission, to bribe Fulton into switching his allegiances, steals the show as Kydd mucks around with the maritime amateurs. Stockwin doesn't stray from his successful formula in this outing; series readers should be pleased. (Oct.)
Historical Novels Review
Stockwin continues to display his talents in transporting his audience from the 21st century to the chaotic worlds of Kydd, Renzi, and their imperiled homeland.
Daily Telegraph
Stockwin's writing is enriched by his own experiences in the Royal Navy, which gives scenes of fighting and tempest an authenticity to delight anyone who shares his passion for the sea.
Yorkshire Evening Post
Stockwin's descriptions of the bloody reality of naval combat 200 years ago are memorably vivid, and reveal a profound respect for the seamen who were willing to sacrifice their lives to help save their country.
Oxford Times
Elegantly plotted. .. the writing has the power of a broadside at close range.
The Guardian
The vantage point of the common sailor gives the nautical novel a fresh twist. In Stockwin’s hands the sea story will continue to entrance readers across the world.
Dewey Lambdin
A rousingly exciting and delicious full-immersion in the perils of seafaring and society during the great Age of Sail!
Historical Novels Review Online
Stockwin continues to display his talents in transporting his audience from the 21st century to the chaotic worlds of Kydd, Renzi, and their imperiled homeland.. .. [He] goes into action with swords drawn and cannons and carronades blasting.
Pirates and Privateers
This tenth installment of the Kydd Sea Adventures provides a rousing fresh perspective about the invasion threat that England faced during the Napoleonic Wars. Stockwin draws the reader in with danger and possibilities and then clearly shows the personal struggle that seamen faced as new ideas threaten duty, morality, and traditional rules of engagement. Woven into this excellent tapestry are elements of everyday naval life, such as the savagery of sea combat and hand-to-hand fighting, searching for an AWOL crew member, and edge-of-your-seat lifesaving gambles. At the same time, readers glimpse life in Paris during the war and what it’s like for an enemy to openly walk the streets there. Equally compelling are the scientific inventions that are introduced, the conflicts they arouse, and how personal experiences can be melded with new ideas to provide alternative ways of achieving goals. Along the way, readers meet such historic people as Robert Fulton, William Pitt, Admiral Keith, and Captain Frances Austen (Jane Austen’s brother). Invasion is a thought-provoking experience filled with exploits to interest fans of historical fiction, nautical fiction, and even steampunk.
From the Publisher
Another thundering good read for those who love seagoing stories in the Hornblower mould—Peterborough Evening Telegraph on TREACHERY
Another ripping yarn—Good Book Guide on TREACHERY
I was soon turning the pages almost indecently fast...Roll on, the promised adventures of Kydd and Renzi—Independent on KYDD
Stockwin paints a vivid picture of life aboard the mighty ship-of-the-line...the harsh naval discipline, the rancid food, and the skill of the common sailor are all skilfully evoked.—Daily Express on KYDD
Stockwin is a born storyteller and, with his series of intriguing sub-plots, a man with a vivid imagination. Importantly, his research is accurate and first class. Treachery is highly recommended.—Flagship on TREACHERY
An absorbing tale—Firetrench on TREACHERY
