Nelson's Lost Son

Nelson's Lost Son is a fast-paced, gripping adventure set against a colourful historical background. It vividly brings to life the father-son relationship of Horatio Nelson and his 'lost son' Josiah Nisbet. Josiah, the hero of the novel, faces warfare on the high seas as well as moral issues regarding the keeping of slaves, family honour and the legacy of colonialism. I highly recommend this book to those with a desire to learn about a fascinating period of naval history as well as those simply looking to be entertained by a lively and amusing adventure tale.

-         Walter McIntosh (Film & Television Editor)

Oliver Greeves explores with great insight the nuances of extended family life clustering around the history of celebrated characters, in this case Horatio Nelson. The author traces the Caribbean exploits of Horatio's step-son, Josiah, after he is press-ganged into the navy and adopts a pseudonym to avoid recognition. What follows is a fictitious journey based on historical fact which the author reveals as a great adventure.

-         Oliver Freeman (Publisher)

Nelson's Lost Son is more than an action/adventure, though it certainly is that. It's also an exploration of how a once rising star, brought low, begins his redemption, and starts to develop into a man of real character. A minor historical figure, cast into the darkness by a brilliant, heroic, but sometimes cruel stepfather, is brought into the light, and Oliver Greeves turns him this way and that to examine his very human weaknesses and motivations, though with a great deal of sympathy.

This is a rollicking and enjoyable read. Greeves is understanding and realistic in his depiction of character - Josiah's, and the others who cross his path. He takes some licence with historical events, to the great advantage of the plot, but carries it through with conviction, so that, by the close of the novel, the reader has become invested in this semi-fictional figure and wants to know more of what comes next.

I hope Greeves will bring us more adventures, and I look forward to reading them. Highly recommended.

- John Gilbert (the Naval Review)