St. Vincent 5. Bridgemont

Over the last six days, since August 11, 2017, I've re-read the first five books of the Bridgemont series or saga.  I recommend all of them.  This book, focuses on George's time on the Belvidera when he was attached to Sir Jervis' Mediterranean Fleet of the British Empire.  It is a roller coaster with many highs like George faking out two Spanish ships of the line, to way too many lows like having your mentor and lover taken from you.   There are so many twists and turns to the story, both at sea and back in England, that you can never be bored by it all.  Through it all, our solitary hero George,  is randy, incredibly lucky and luckless by turns.  Only CJames has come close to writing a story with more plots and sub-plots than Mr. Arbour. 

Read, enjoy, comment and review!  This is a master story teller at work!

This book is the fifth in the Bridgemont series.  This book is as well written and plotted as well as those that have come before it.  The characters development of both the existing characters and the newer ones is first rate as well.  

This book while dealing a great deal with one especially important battle and a couple of other more minor military exercises is exciting and thrilling in those areas.  But a great deal of this book deals with family dramas within the Granger family.  Some effect George directly while more just involve him and Caroline on a more peripheral manner.  

The first real crack in George and Caroline's relationship occurs herein; and while it was resolved for the most part before the end of the book; it leaves one wondering how secure they truly are?  

As always simply one of the best stories on this site.

Book Five of the Bridgemont series is excellently written.  Filled with interesting dialogue reflecting the times and issues during the war as it focuses on the battles in the Mediterranean between the French and Spanish fleets against the  Royal Navy.  It is filled with dramatic descriptions of the ensuing battles.  It also focuses on George's family and indiscreet actions of certain members that bring shame and betrayal to George.  George has to rely on his connections, but some are also lost to him.  This is a riveting exposé of the family relationships, politics and the price of war at this turning point in history.  Enjoy the ride. 

This book only has three reviews, but lots of comments throughout which show the satisfaction of so many readers over the years. The three reviews are excellent and from some of the best readers on the site. @Daddydavek, @centexhairysub and @raven1 make incisive, original and challenging comments.  Any writer would be happy to receive their praise.  Years later in 2024 I can only agree and add that this series for me is easily the best in GA; it’s wonderful.