Book excerpt: As a Captain in the fledgling American Navy of 1801, young Lowell West sets sail on his first command with little hope of distinguishing himself in battle. Instead of a dull campaign, however, sealed orders, veiled political tension, and unseen threats from a more dangerous sea power throw West into the midst of a treacherous, daring mission right into the teeth of the powerful Spanish navy. The clash of sword against sword, the fury of the tumultuous ocean, and the thunder of rolling cannon broadsides come vividly alive in this nautical adventure of the most engaging kind!