Fortunes's Favorite grabbed my attention from the start and the authors passion for his subject came through clearly. I have read a few non-fiction books recently where the the Battle of the Saints has featured and credit for the Breaking the Line manouvere has been given either to Rodney or Clerk of Eldin and this book brings together all the evidence, including extracts of many contemporary letters, that makes it clear Sir Charles Douglas has not received the credit he deserves.
The impact of Trafalgar has long had the effect of concentrating the world upon Nelson as our greatest sailor but at the same time it has pushed many other brave, skilled and deserving officers into the shadows. It would seem Sir Charles Douglas must be added to this list.
He influenced the career of men such as Edward Pellew and being one year younger than Earl Howe (Glorious First of June) you have to wonder what might have been had he not died from a stroke and lived on into the start of the Revolutionary Wars. I suspect he would be much better known.
A book I recommend.
Description of: Fortune's Favorite: Sir Charles Douglas and the Breaking of the Line
Author: Christopher J. Valin
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