The test of enemy fire refines a man's courage. Duty refines a man's character. Donland must face challenges by enemies at sea, calm seas and sudden fierce storms. The Caribbean and Windward Islands are beset with pirates and privateers plundering for themselves or their French masters. His greatest challenge lies in balancing his relationship as Hornet's Captain with those he would call friend. He must sit idly by and observe the Battle of Grenada as French and English ships-of-line pound each other

The year is 1779, the colonials with the aid of French Admiral D’estang are rumored to be plotting to retake Savannah. Donland is tasked to ferret out information concerning French intentions. He will do so without his trusted first lieutenant and friend who is near death, and the doctor holds out little hope. Unknown to Donland, as he is focused on the discovery the French fleet, is Sumerford's scheme to settle an old score with a traitor on the Island of Jamaica.

The task is simple. "Deliver the prize to the Admiral in Antigua." But nothing's simple for Lieutenant Donland as the leaking ship sinks beneath his feet. Aboard is a young boy with no memory that the French desperately want to capture. Donland's first command may well be his only command as he fights off traitors, spies, and a young woman ready to split his gizzard. 

The Rescue is a tale of privateers, bravery, and fierce sea battles. It is a story set during the closing years of the American Revolution when wealthy bankers acquire letters of marquee and build ships for the sole purpose of capturing British merchant vessels and selling their cargoes.

After a century of war, revolutions, and imperial conquests, 1790s Europe is still embroiled in a battle for control of the sea and colonies. Tall ships navigate familiar and foreign waters, and ambitious young men without rank or status seek their futures in naval commands. First Lieutenant Alexander Clay of the frigate Agrius is self-made, clever, and ready for the new age. But the old world, dominated by patronage, retains a tight hold on advancement.