Master and Commander: The Aubrey-Maturin Series by Patrick O'Brian
Master and Commander
"The best historical novels ever written." - Richard Snow, The New York Times
The "Master and Commander" series of books written by Patrick O'Brian is full of action, adventure, intrigue and historical insight. Set during the early 19th century, these books are a joy to read for any fan of historical fiction, sailing, naval history or just great literature.
O'Brian's storytelling and character development abilities are incredible. I recently finished reading the last book of the series and recommend that you read the series in order (see list below) to maintain plot continuity and get the most enjoyment from each novel.
This series of novels is commonly referred to as the "Aubrey-Maturin" series since it is centered on the close relationship and adventures of the two main characters, Captain Jack Aubrey and naturalist/intelligence agent Dr. Stephen Maturin. Some fans also refer to it as the "Aubreyad".
The Books - The series in order of publication.
Books 6-10
Official "Master and Commander" Websites
- About Patrick O'Brian
A tribute to the author by his publisher, W.W. Norton & Company. - Master and Commander Reading Group Guide
Discussion questions for Master and Commander and the entire Aubrey-Maturin series.
Books 11-15
Books 16-20
Collector's Items
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Patrick O'Brian was born Richard Patrick Russ and died in January 2000 at the age of 85. During his lifetime he was an ambulance driver, a hunter, a World War II intelligence analyst, a winemaker, a translator of books and an author.
O'Brian authored several novels and numerous short stories prior to writing the Aubrey-Maturin series. He also won acclaim for his biography, Picasso. Given the quality and number of Aubrey-Maturin books, it is amazing to learn that O'Brian didn't begin writing the series until he was in his 50s.
The Patrick O'Brian Compendium
A site honoring the author and full of additional reference links.
Patrick O'Brian Visits the HMS Rose
As part of the release of The Commodore, Patrick O'Brian visited the HMS Rose in New York City in 1995. This ship would later play the role of Jack Aubrey's HMS Surprise in the 2003 movie, "Master and Commander - The Far Side of the World".
Companion Books - For "Master and Commander" fans...
O'Brian's writing is true to the language and nautical terminology of the time period. This can make for a challenging read in spots, but it's a worthy challenge. The books listed below are great resources to help you in this journey.
Master and Commander Cover Art Posters
by Geoff Hunt
Artist Geoff Hunt created the cover art for each book in the Aubrey/Maturin series. His attention to detail and historical accuracy in his works was well respected by Patrick O'Brian. You can buy artwork by Geoff Hunt at Art.com.
Master and Commander
The Mauritius Command
The Thirteen Gun Salute
Experience The Life Of Jack Aubrey
- Tour A Tall Ship
A fun way to learn more about life aboard ship and increase your enjoyment of these books is to tour a ship of the era. This site is a directory of tall ships around the world that you can tour. It includes info on touring the HMS Rose (which played - Sail A Tall Ship
For the adventurous, this site highlights tall ships around the world that you can sail on as a trainee crew member. Most are also available for charter cruises.
See The Movie - Master and Commander - The Far Side of the World
The movie based on books 1 and 10. Please visit Master and Commander - The Far Side of the World to learn more.
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