The reader feels that these are indeed eighteenth century seafarers brought to life. They are very much of their time. Whilst the language is, so far as I can judge, authentic, it does not sound strange coming from the mouths of Mr. O Brian s characters. I stand to be corrected, but so far people have not been able to spot any serious anachronisms in any of the books. Another wonderful facet of Mr. O Brian s work is its humour.
Some naval fiction can take itself terribly seriously, and can come across as rather po-faced.
They are after all works of entertainment, and should be read as such. Fate has given Jack Aubrey the one thing he was put on this Earth for - command of a warship, and the cherished friendship of Stephen Maturin. Maturin has been given the opportunity to explore the world, and carry out his work as an agent for Naval Intelligence in the company of a man who, whilst a complete booby ashore, is a tower of strength in his element, the sea. If you have not already done so, get hold of a copy - you will not be disappointed.