Something Essential

1775-76: The gathering storm of the American Revolution is seen through the eyes of a man who gradually finds himself holding sympathies more loyal to the Crown than many of his associates. Eventually forced by angry mobs from his church and home, the Rev'd Thomas Langdon flees for his life aboard a British warship. Appointed chaplain in several successive ships, he becomes secretary to Admiral Graves in Boston, where his hopes for a peaceful settlement fade after he witnesses the Battle of Bunker Hill. Subsequently appointed Colonial Advisor to the newly appointed Station commander Admiral Lord Richard Howe - who has also been invested by the King with certain powers as Peace Commissioner - he takes part in the Battle of Long Island and the British capture of New York City, where his hopes for peace rebound.

The portrayal of a people increasingly divided between rebellion and loyalty, insurrection and the rule of law, violence and compromise, make this tale a timely reflection.

In the tradition of Patrick O'Brian and C. S. Forester, the Langdon Maritime Chronicles are historically accurate and vibrant accounts of 18th century life aboard British men of war.