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Title: Six Frigates

Author: Ian W. Toll

Narrator: Stephen Lang

Format: Abridged

Length: 7 hrs and 10 mins

Language: English

Release date: 09-25-06

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio

Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 439 votes

Genres: History, American

Publisher's Summary:

From the decision to build six heavy frigates, through the cliffhanger campaign against Tripoli, to the war that shook the world in 1812, Ian W. Toll tells this grand tale with the political insight of Founding Brothers and a narrative flair worthy of Patrick O'Brian. According to Henry Adams, the 1812 encounter between the USS Constitution and HMS Guerriere "raised the United States in one half hour to the rank of a first class power in the world."

Critic Reviews:

"Toll provides perspective by seamlessly incorporating the era's political and diplomatic history into his superlative single-volume narrative, a must-read for fans of naval history and the early American Republic." (Publishers Weekly)

Members Reviews:

BE ADVISED THIS BOOK IS ABRIDGED

The printed copy of this book was recommended to me by a friend. It was an excellent book to hear, but I fear that important portions may have been omitted in the process. I will pay more attention next time to see that I purchase only UNabridged books. Still a good listen full of historical data.

A

Six Frigates tells the story of the early years of the American Navy focused primarily on its first six "Heavy Frigates." We learn of the politics surrounding the debate over whether a navy was truely needed as well as its equiping and manning. Battles are described in exciting detail. We come to understand the important role the little American Navy played in strengthening the nation's role in international politics.

I found the writing clear, never dull. And the narration was clear and engaging, never losing me in a monotone dialog but also never overdiong the exciting parts.

Who would be interested in this book? If you have enjoyed the "Master and Commander" series for its historical and naval aspects, you will find this book a marvelous companion. If you enjoy colonial and american military history as much as I, then you will probably consider this a good addition to your collection. I hope you enjoy it as much as me.

Excellent

If you enjoyed John Adams and 1776 (not the same author, but similar in genre), you'll love Six Frigates. As is usually the case with this type of book, I feel the need to listen a second time to catch the details I missed, but it will be as pleasant the second time as it was the first. Great book, well read and it gave me tidbits to share at my next get-together with friends.

Great Book but Abridged

This is a good historical read. Seems to be well documented and sounds like a historical novel instead of non-fiction. Would have liked an unabridged version though.

Outstanding Book!

Ian W. Toll is simply a phenomenal writer. This book was so good there's nothing negative I can say about it with the exception that I wished it had been longer. While the book had moments where the political was explained in depth I would not say so to a point of minutia that had no bearing. It was a very complete and a very well presented account and I do believe Toll gave a balanced amount of information about these warships and their place in the nations history.

I was first introduced to Toll after listening to The Conquering Tide followed by Pacific Crucible. While I enjoy history I've never had a great affinity to listen to history earlier then the 20th century. This book has changed my outlook.