Donland and the Hornet

Hornet was a cursed ship. Distrust of the fever-laden Hornet and the young American-born captain are a poor fit to the fleet of Admiral Hyde Parker and Admiral Rowley. Yet, their communications are hampered by a small squadron of Spanish, and Hornet is given the task of running the gauntlet. Trapped and outgunned, he must use his wits to escape and keep the dispatches he is carrying from falling into the hands of the Spanish. From Charles Town to Martinique Donland faces storms, treachery, and envy.

It is 1779 and the war is going badly for England. Donland and the crew of the Hornet must outwit and out sail pirates, the French and the Spanish to rescue the crown prince of Portugal. He is to deliver a king's ransom in gold to pirates holding the prince. Donland is warned, "The man who requested you has placed you in a difficult position. You are to deliver the gold and provide assistance to him. It is the latter than should concern you, for if his mission fails you will bear the brunt of that failure."

Three sloops does not a squadron make...nor a commodore. Sailing from English Harbor, Donland is in command of the sloops Hornet, Stinger, and Jacket. His destination is Port Royal in Carolina to deliver munitions and soldiers. Sumerford has his secrets, Major Ellington of the army has his bluster, and Donland has a captain afraid of his first lieutenant. The mix is explosive, and Donland is challenged to stay in command.