In 1814 Napoleon’s abdication allows Britain to reduce its fleet, but Kydd receives the admiral’s flag that completes his rise from pressed sailor. His intended West African command would place him against the slave trade, with Thunderer serving as his flagship in a dangerous and politically complicated station.
Napoleon’s return from Elba abruptly changes the assignment. With much of the Channel Fleet laid up, Kydd must assemble whatever ships can be made ready and prevent the restored emperor from turning French naval forces into a new invasion threat before the campaign reaches Waterloo.