This tale, set in 1812, features a trip around Cape Horn, with Stephen Maturin, Patrick O'Brian's wonderful opium-addicted naturalist, exploring the new world with his pal Jack Aubrey. If you haven't yet been introduced to O'Brian's vivid portraits of Nelson's British Navy, here's your chance to dip into this fine series, with a book featuring evocative descriptions of Patagonian wildlife and natural features. A great read (and a great reread for O'Brian fans).  (PAC55, $24.00)

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