This is Hornblower and the “Atropos” audiobook (please share your thoughts by leave comments and rate this post. Or share more information of this audios in the comment section. Thank @Henry for sharing this audios). Lets play Hornblower and the “Atropos” full audios free online in the audio player below.
The story takes place in 1805, during the height of the Napoleonic Wars. Hornblower is now a captain and is given command of the HMS Atropos, a ship tasked with patrolling the English Channel and intercepting French vessels. Hornblower is initially disappointed with his new assignment, as he had hoped for a more active role in the war effort. However, he soon finds himself embroiled in a series of dangerous and complex missions that test his leadership skills and his loyalty to the British Navy.
One of the main themes of the audiobook is the tension between duty and personal ambition. Hornblower is a highly ambitious officer who dreams of achieving glory and recognition in the Navy. However, he is also a loyal servant of the British Crown and is willing to put his own desires aside for the good of his country. This conflict is exemplified in his relationship with his second-in-command, Lieutenant Bush. Bush is a more laid-back officer who is content with his current position and does not share Hornblower’s ambition. Hornblower is initially frustrated with Bush’s lack of drive, but eventually comes to appreciate his loyalty and dedication to the Navy.
Another important theme of the audiobook is the unpredictability of war. Hornblower is constantly faced with unexpected challenges and setbacks, and must adapt quickly to changing circumstances. He is forced to make difficult decisions that often have life-or-death consequences for his crew and his mission. This unpredictability is exemplified in the various missions that Hornblower undertakes throughout the audiobook. He is tasked with intercepting a French ship carrying important dispatches, rescuing a group of British prisoners from a French prison, and navigating treacherous waters to deliver a message to a British fleet. Each of these missions presents unique challenges and requires Hornblower to use his ingenuity and resourcefulness to succeed.
One of the strengths of the audiobook is its vivid descriptions of naval warfare during the Napoleonic era. Forester is a master of historical detail, and his descriptions of ship-to-ship combat and life aboard a British warship are both thrilling and informative. The audiobook also provides a fascinating glimpse into the politics and culture of the time period. Hornblower interacts with a variety of characters, from high-ranking naval officers to French prisoners of war, and each encounter sheds light on the complex social dynamics of the era.
The audiobook is also notable for its portrayal of Hornblower as a flawed and complex character. While he is a skilled and courageous officer, he is also prone to self-doubt and insecurity. He struggles with feelings of guilt over the deaths of his crew members and is haunted by the memory of a failed mission from his past. These vulnerabilities make him a more relatable and sympathetic protagonist, and add depth to his character.
The narration by Christian Rodska is excellent, and he brings the various characters to life with his distinctive voices and accents. His pacing and intonation are also well-suited to the action-packed and suspenseful nature of the audiobook. Rodska’s narration adds an extra layer of excitement and drama to the story, and makes for a highly engaging listening experience.
Overall, Hornblower and the “Atropos” is a thrilling and well-crafted historical fiction audiobook that will appeal to fans of naval warfare and adventure stories. Its vivid descriptions of life aboard a British warship and its portrayal of a complex and flawed protagonist make it a standout in the genre. The audiobook is highly recommended for anyone looking for an exciting and immersive listening experience.