Losing Nelson

Publisher: Hamish Hamilton,1999 £ 15.99

Obsessed from an early age with 'hero worship' of Nelson, the anniversaries of the events in his life and the enactment of his battles takes over the fictional life of Charles Clearby. As is sometimes the case with sailor's impeccable moral standards aboard ship, these are sometimes not mirrored by those ashore, even by heroes. Unable to compromise and trying to come to terms with this - or not - is what the story is largely about.

Not written in the manner of Patrick O Brien; the style is more intimate. Battle scenes and emotions are sensitively described in a fresh and enjoyable way worthy - as it was - of last year’s Booker Prize.

The book is one to be lingered over and savoured - a sensation made extra pleasurable by the excellent quality presentation. – NC

Page prepared 2nd March 2000