For hardcore geeks of naval stories or anything 19th century it's going to be a treat. Takes place at the Napoleonic Wars time. At least half of the stories take place on shore, though, much of which are weird (from the contemporary point of view at least) parables of philosophy, social hierarchy and (hardly acceptable) morality. The main advantage of this book is that it's written in 1836 by Marryat who was himself a Royal Navy officer, so among fantastic events and unlikely feats actual world of the periodis revealed, as much as actual world voew. The pondering on "rights of man and equality" are tiresome as much as misguided, founded on logical fallacies. But the parts describing seamanship and exploits of "our hero", Mesti and their companions extremely enjoyable and thrilling, and told with a great sense of humour. The character of Mesti is itself a reason to enjoy the book. "By the holy poker"!