This book is simply a great read. Our hero fights on land and sea; there is plenty of action and adventure. The descriptions of the battles are captivating and the story never drags.
In this story, we see burden of command weighing heavily on Bolitho. He's not a hero in the traditional sense. He gets things done, but he is no super-hero. He must, MUST, perform regardless how tired or fatigued he is, the incompetence and rivalries of his subordinates, and a host of other problems. Given that, Bolitho is not only a believable figure, he's one that the reader can relate to.
If you like action and adventure and a story that moves right along, then this is the book (and series) for you. I highly recommend it.