Episode 228 - Antonia Senior Interview

We're taking a break from The Mauritius Command to bring you a guest interview with Antonia Senior. Antonia is a book critic at The Times, as well as a writer, podcaster and journalist. But before she was any of those things, she was a Patrick O’Brian fan, and we had a great time talking to her about historical fiction, what makes O'Brian such a standout, and which other authors come close. With a little chat about espionage on the side! 

After the hurricane, we meet human frailty, dockyard corruption, rain-soaked letters from home, and an unborn porcupine. Our heroes debate the value of a human life, with a Tory and a Radical managing not to fall out. Finally, as the invasion of La Réunion begins, lives are saved by the Voltairean Stephen Maturin.

Stephen and Jack are ashore again at the cape, ready to spend the British king’s gold on mercenaries and propaganda; Killick is anxious about meeting the ghost in the bread-room; Clonfert's fakery continues to be an issue; and all creatures, great and small, are at risk from some stormy weather.

Stephen prepares to play his part in Jack’s Mauritius mission.  We have reflections on natural philosophy, a covert mission ashore, and co-operation with the Army in the first action of the campaign - but will it be a success for all concerned? Plus - more parrot revelations.

We arrive at the Cape of Good Hope, receive Jack's true orders, and witness the immediate elevation—and corresponding pressure—that comes with the new post of Commodore Aubrey.  Meanwhile there's a surprise reunion with a couple of old Jack Aubrey followers, and a protestant parrot.

Jack Aubrey is back where he belongs: in command at sea. He’s dealing with complexities of the quarterdeck, though he hasn't escaped his troubles entirely! We have a new ship, a new crew and an early prize. Not to mention a tone-deaf guest to be tolerated in the captain’s cabin.

In Chapter 1 of The Mauritius Command, Jack Aubrey comes to terms with domesticated life ashore on half-pay. He’s beset by caterpillars, wax-moths, a barren cow, daughters and a shrewish mother-in-law - not quite the life he imagined. An old friend visits with surprising news, and a lady begging a lift gets the Sophie treatment. Plus two old landlubber friends dust off their former identities and set sail again.

A special announcement from Ian & Mike about our plans to re-launch the Lubber's Hole.  Merry Christmas!  

We reach the end of our voyage, but before we get there we'll meet old friends, deal with friction in the younger generation, and encounter a familiar kind of personal jeopardy for Stephen. After that, all that's left to say is 'thank you' and 'until the next time'.

Episode 220 is out today - dedicated to our interview with POB biographer Dean King. Discover the story of Dean’s journey to discover more of the real world story behind O’Brian’s genius.