Independent Action — Michael Winston

In this first book of the Jonathan Kinkaid Series, "Independent Action," our hero serves as First Lieutenant aboard the American frigate Randolph of 32 guns, blockaded in the port of Philadelphia during the winter of 1776-77. Tasked with orders to undertake "independent action" in the frigid waters of the North Atlantic against a mighty British convoy, she manages to elude enemy warships long enough to transform her crew-from the crusty boatswain O'Toole to the teenage midshipman Billy Weatherby-into an effective fighting force. Fast-paced, old-fashioned, high seas adventure at its very best. Cover art by the author.