Master and Commander: The Aubrey-Maturin Series by Patrick O'Brian
Ranked #673 in Books, Poetry & Writing, #29,236 overall
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 "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".
Contents at a Glance
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
About the Author
The Patrick O'Brian web ring and other resources.
Patrick O'Brian [ Join Now | Ring Hub | Random | << Prev | Next >> ]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 the role of HMS Surprise in the movie), the USS Constitution and Admiral Nelson's flagship, HMS Victory.
- 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.
Log Book
Are you a fan of the Master and Commander series or interested in reading it? Please leave your entry in the log...
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AaronSquid
Jan 31, 2012 @ 4:39 am | delete
- I read these stories a few years ago and I agree, they are some of the best historical fiction around. I'll definitely be reading them (all) again.
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Wes Dixon
Sep 30, 2011 @ 4:44 am | delete
- This is by far the best site for basic information on the most wonderful high adventure series ever. I guess hat means I'll have to join Squidoo now...OK
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cdevries
Jul 12, 2011 @ 1:06 pm | delete
- Great Lens! I love the books. Have you run across this fun book? Lobscouse & Spotted Dog: Which It's the Gastronomic Companion to the Aubrey/Maturin Novels. A couple fans decided to cook all the recipes from O'Brian's books... even the rats! Fascinating. Squid Angel blessed.
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Mac33
Jul 13, 2011 @ 11:41 am | delete
- Thanks! Aye, I've heard of the "Lobscouse & Spotted Dog" book but never read it. There are many interesting dishes mentioned in the series.
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ellagis
Jul 7, 2011 @ 4:37 pm | delete
- Actually I was not a big fan, since when a dear friend of mine started calling me "Stephen Maturin".... so I had to find out if it was something good or not!!!! :)
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TopMovieSoundtracks Feb 12, 2011 @ 11:18 pm | delete
- Love the books and movie.
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MamaBelle
Jan 15, 2011 @ 8:04 am | delete
- Half way through my first Patrick O'Brian book, great read, I am already a fan.
Glad I found your lense.
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Mac33
Jan 15, 2011 @ 9:56 am | delete
- Enjoy!
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Seth Newman
Dec 21, 2010 @ 12:54 pm | delete
- I'm going through them for the second time in a row and don't know how I'll ever stop. These are the best novels I've ever read.
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Mac33
Dec 21, 2010 @ 7:11 pm | delete
- Totally agree. I haven't started reading it a second time yet but did listen to "Master and Commander" on audio book after I finished reading the series. Funny thing about that was hearing how many of the old naval terms I mispronounced when I read it.
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Mac33
I first learned of these books when I saw a preview of and thought it looked like a great movie. Then... more »
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Explore related pages
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- Master and Commander - The Far Side of the World Master and Commander - The Far Side of the World
- Tall Ship Art by Geoff Hunt Tall Ship Art by Geoff Hunt
- Patrick O'Brian Patrick O'Brian
- Tour A Tall Ship Tour A Tall Ship
- Sail A Tall Ship Sail A Tall Ship
Companion Guide to the Aubrey-Maturin Series
Harbors and High Seas, 3rd Edition : An Atlas and Geographical Guide to the Complete Aubrey-Maturin Novels of Patrick O'Brian, Third Edition
Amazon Price: $8.64 (as of 02/17/2012)
An excellent resource to have while reading each book of the Master and Commander series. Includes maps of the major battles and harbors along with background info on the places in each story. Be careful not to read too far ahead in this one.
Aubrey-Maturin Related Sites
