I can't say that I've read a sea-going historical novel before, but this series is famous so I thought I'd give it a shot, in my efforts to branch out of my usual happy rut of sci-fi and fantasy. I enjoyed it well enough, though I could have done without the many extensive passages describing every tiny rope-twitch or sail-change or whatever. I'm sure many people find this detail fascinating, but all I could think was that if it were all cut out, the book would be half the length and scoot along that much quicker.

I have to say I warmed to Maturin more than Aubrey. Also, am quite sick of reading about doomed or drowning cats. Please stop that! It may be historical accuracy, but it makes me hate everyone.