1782— The American Revolutionary War rages in the Caribbean. With designs upon the island of Jamaica, the French plan their invasion. England’s lucrative trade is at risk, her lifeblood, the entire war hanging in the balance…
Admiral de Grasse readies the French fleet upon Martinique, soon to depart with over sixty ships and forty thousand troops. To the south the British fleet hovers, Admiral Rodney eagerly waiting upon news from his lookout squadrons.
His Britannic Majesty’s Ship Hinchinbrook, twenty-eight gun, is hurriedly recalled from the repair docks to join the scouting efforts. Their duty to spy the French fleet is clear, to be prosecuted at all costs. Headed about Martinique, the seas of the Windward Islands swarm with enemy shipping, shipping which is hunting day and night. Tensions are high.
A young up-and-coming officer, Midshipman Hayden Reginald Cooper, eagerly awaits news of his examination for lieutenant. The spoils of promotion, prizes and glory await, all amidst the threat of hurricane, destruction and worst of all, abject failure. Should the French slip away unnoticed, Jamaica would be lost, the sugar trade would be lost, the Leeward Islands would be lost and the war would be lost. Hinchinbrook may only be one ship and yet upon her decks the fate of the entire West Indies is poised. Much is at stake and never have so many relied upon those so few…
“False Colours” marks the beginning of Hayden Reginald Cooper’s journey and his adventures in the Royal Navy…
