Master and Commander

I've just finished reading first in the series of Patrick O'Brian's novels. I must admit that I was slightly disappointed. At first, obscure maritime terminology was difficult to understand. The real problem was O'Brian's style and shifting of perspectives. After getting accustomed to it, novel was easier to read.

I understand why Hollywood refused to use it as a basis for feature film. Set in 1800 Mediterranean, with Spanish as French allies, it was too difficult to swallow to viewers with superficial knowledge of Napoleonic times.