Britannia's Innocent: The Dawlish Chronicles February – May 1864

"1864-Political folly has brought war upon Denmark. Lacking allies, the country is invaded by the forces of military superpowers Prussia and Austria. Cut off from the main Danish Army, and refusing to use the word 'retreat', a resolute commander withdraws northwards. Harried by Austrian calvary, his forces plod through snow, sleet and mud their determination not to be defeated increasing with each weary step ... Across the Atlantic, civil war rages. It is fought not solely on American soil but also on the world's oceans, as Confederate commerce raiders ravage Union merchant shipping as far away as the East Indies. And now a new raider, a powerful modern ironclad, is nearing completion in a British shipyard. But funds are lacking to pay for her armament and the Union government is pressing Britain to prevent her sailing ... But Denmark is not wholly without sympathizers. Britain's heir to the throne is married to a Danish princess. With his covert backing, British volunteers are ready to fight for the Danes. And the Confederacy is willing to lease the new raider to Denmark for two months if she can be armed as payment, although the Union government is determined to see her sunk ... Just returned form Royal Navy service in the West Indies, the young Nicholas Dawlish is induced to volunteer and is plunged into the horrors of a siege, shore-bombardment, raiding and battle in the cold North Sea-notwithstanding divided loyalties ... In other books of the Dawlish Chronicles series, Dawlish is met as an experienced and resourceful officer, but in 1864-he is still an innocent. But he will need to learn fast ..."--Page 4 of cover