By Force of Arms (Revolution at Sea Trilogy/James L. Nelson, Bk 1)

Rating:
Summary: Exciting, but a little over the top
Review: This book is very exciting at times, but it also has its weak points. Nelson does a good job of keeping the action going and he also does a good job of describing the intricate workings of a man-of-war during the late 18th century. I also think Nelson made a good decision by having his books set during the American Revolutionary War and told from the American point of view. The sea novel about the Royal Navy set during the Napoleonic Wars has been done to death and done well by many other authors. Now for what Nelson doesn't do so well. Nelson's writing is not nearly as smooth or brilliantly descriptive as Patrick O'Brian. His characters are mostly one-dimensional, much of the plot is predictable and some of the action is a little unbelievable. I have to admit though, in spite of its flaws, I did find it reasonably entertaining.