Frederick Marryat 
Percival Keene 

In ‘Percival Keene’ by Frederick Marryat, readers are transported to the thrilling world of the British Navy during the Napoleonic Wars. The novel follows the young and ambitious Percival Keene as he navigates the complex social hierarchies of the navy and battles against both external foes and internal struggles. Marryat’s writing style is characterized by vivid descriptions of naval life and exciting sea adventures, making the book a captivating read for anyone interested in historical fiction or naval literature. The novel also explores themes of identity, morality, and honor, adding layers of depth to the action-packed narrative. With its engaging plot and well-developed characters, ‘Percival Keene’ remains a classic of 19th-century literature. Frederick Marryat, a former naval officer himself, drew inspiration from his own experiences at sea to create a story that is both authentic and entertaining. His firsthand knowledge of naval life shines through in the detailed accounts of shipboard routines and naval battles, adding a level of realism to the narrative. Recommended for readers who enjoy historical fiction, adventure stories, or classic literature, ‘Percival Keene’ is a must-read for those looking to immerse themselves in the world of the British Navy during the age of sail.

About the author

Captain Frederick Marryat (1792-1848) was a distinguished British Royal Navy officer and a novelist, best known for his sea stories and pioneering the nautical adventure novel genre. He embarked on a naval career at the age of 14 and served during the Napoleonic Wars, experiences which later deeply informed his writing. After retiring from the navy in 1830 with the rank of captain, he turned to writing and became one of the most popular authors of his time. His novel ‘Percival Keene’ (published in 1842) is a semi-autobiographical work, recounting the adventures of a young man who joins the Royal Navy and is eventually acknowledged as the illegitimate son of a nobleman. Marryat’s narrative style combines action with humor and pathos, integrating his firsthand knowledge of seafaring life with fictional storytelling. His other well-known works include ‘Mr. Midshipman Easy’ (1836) and ‘Peter Simple’ (1834). Captain Frederick Marryat’s contributions to literature not only entertained a generation of readers but also influenced future writers, including Joseph Conrad and Ernest Hemingway, who admired the authenticity and character depth of Marryat’s maritime tales.