Fortune's Favorite: Sir Charles Douglas and the Breaking of the Line

Just realised I didn't start a thread when this new book was released the other day Fortune's Favorite: Sir Charles Douglas and the Breaking of the Line by Christopher J. Valin

When you think of the great heroes of the 18th Century Royal Navy, you would probably think of Horatio Nelson, possibly Sir Sidney Smith; but would the name Sir Charles Douglas spring to mind? If it doesn't-it should.

Sir Charles Douglas played a pivotal role in many of the most important events of the late eighteenth century, and yet his name appears only in short passages and footnotes of works on naval history and the American Revolution.

In Fortune's Favorite: Sir Charles Douglas and the Breaking of the Line, the Royal Navy captain finally receives the attention he deserves for his part in the Relief of Quebec, the Battle of Valcour Island, his naval gunnery innovations, and the Battle of the Saints, including his contribution to the "breaking of the line" maneuver, which has been a subject of controversy for nearly two centuries.

Written by an American descendent of Sir Charles, Fortune's Favorite is the definitive work on this most extraordinary man.

It sounds like an interesting work and you can order it through the website here

Thanks for starting this thread. I'd love to hear any comments and I'd be happy to answer any questions anyone might have.

-Christopher Valin

I've dropped a few hints with xmas on the way. Just have to wait and see

Yes, it's on my list, but ... thanks to this site ... that list keeps getting longer.

Just got hold of a copy of this, the life of Sir Charles Douglas, written by one of his descendents. Initial impressions are very good; a nice edition, well illustrated. I look forward to posting more later.

It is on my shelf as well, but have not started it yet.

Topics merged

Fortunes's Favorite grabbed my attention from the start and the authors passion for his subject came through clearly. I have read a few non-fiction books recently where the the Battle of the Saints has featured and credit for the Breaking the Line manouvere has been given either to Rodney or Clerk of Eldin and this book brings together all the evidence, including extracts of many contemporary letters, that makes it clear Sir Charles Douglas has not received the credit he deserves.

The impact of Trafalgar has long had the effect of concentrating the world upon Nelson as our greatest sailor but at the same time it has pushed many other brave, skilled and deserving officers into the shadows. It would seem Sir Charles Douglas must be added to this list.

He influenced the career of men such as Edward Pellew and being one year younger than Earl Howe (Glorious First of June) you have to wonder what might have been had he not died from a stroke and lived on into the start of the Revolutionary Wars. I suspect he would be much better known.

A book I recommend.

In Fortune's Favorite Christopher Valin puts forward a balanced and convincing case for greater recognition to be attributed to Sir Charles Douglas, both for his action at the Battle of the Saints, and as the instigator of many refinements to naval gunnery; improvements that certainly gave the British an edge in future conflicts.

Douglas come across as an interesting character; certainly as complex as any found in fiction. He spoke six languages, was married three times, lost the use of his left arm relatively early in his career, spent a good deal of time serving in the Dutch Navy, and was partially responsible for reorganising the Russian Navy for Catherine the Great. As Astrodene has mentioned, he also influenced the lives of several notable naval officers who grew to prominence on his interest.

An extensive bibliography (am I alone in marking off those I own or have read?) seven appendices, and numerous foot notes make this a useful addition to any library.

Fortune's Favorite is well researched and written with style. It sheds new light on an old controversy, and gives a previously little known figure of the period deserved acknowledgement. Recommended.

You will find an interview with Chris Valin about the book on the website at http://www.historicnavalfiction.com/index.php/general-hnf-info/astrodenes-blog/1464-an-interview-with-christopher-j-valin