It is not very often that one reads a history book as satisfying as this one. It thoroughly, and expertly, covers the underlying politics, the military and naval strengths and weaknesses, the personalities and backgrounds of the generals and admirals and diplomats and common soldiers and sailors, the economics, the weapons, the weather, the geography. And of course, the main section is the very detailed description of the battle, its causes and aftermath.

It was written by a distinguished Danish academic, presenting information from the Danish and British archives in a non-partisan, fluent style.

There are several good maps, which I referred to repeatedly, some pictures, and an extensive bibliography.

This history book is so good, that I almost feel embarrassed to comment about it from my position as an interested, general reader.

Read it. You will not be disappointed.

Dr John Viggers

The book is very well researched and written. It is not a dry historical rendition of the past but a vibrant and engaging account of a defining moment of the Napoleonic wars. It puts a human face on the cross section of protagonists from the lowest of the seamen to the most senior of leadership. For naval enthusiasts as well as those followers of the Napoleonic period this book provides an excellent account of a naval battle often times lost in the emphasis placed upon the Battle of the Nile and Trafalgar.

Read the complete review here.

The Military Reviewer

Highly recommended and ought to be on the bookshelf of every self-respecting member of The Nelson Society.

The Nelson Dispatch Winter 2017