The Lubber’s Hole - A Patrick O’Brian Podcast

A death leads to a “surprise” promotion. Harding jinxes the ship and we explore the doldrums - geographic and emotional, a US flashback, the ship’s cats, and our potential adversary in Chile. Ch 6.

In Rio, Jack learns about the Asp before leaving to go around Cape Horn. There's a nod to POB's first two nautical books, brushes with brutal weather and seas, women up to the challenge, and men working hard as supplies run short.  Ch 7.

There’s more weather to be weathered, as Stephen considers his contributions to scientific knowledge. William Reade is brought up short, Sir David makes an appearance, and we quote some Shakespeare. Ch 8.

There are two visitors to the Lubber's Hole, greetings from home, visions of Christine, shifting local politics, a couple of naval actions, another burial at sea, and Jack has a plan! Ch. 9 & inter chapter.

We explore the story of Job as Jack plans a final Cochrane flourish - can he meet his obligations to his crew and obtain his life's dream without getting killed in the process? Ch 10.

This is a short special New Year’s episode, containing a quick message to all of you, and a reminder of what's coming up in the coming weeks.   Episode 186, the first chapter of our re-read of Post Captain, is out on January 14th.  

A new ship, bad odds, and life ashore in Jane Austen country. We meet a new set of characters, explore some classical references, and catch up with our heroes across masculine and feminine households.  Ch 1.

Jack and Stephen get to know the Williamses better. Shakespeare and Dryden make an appearance. Jack and Stephen host a ball and the Jane Austen plot thickens, as everyone engages the enemy more closely. Ch 2.

Stephen falls for Diana, but has concerns. Jack tries to deal with Sophie's reluctance. And tension mounts between our heroes even before their entire world turns upside down. Ch 3.

Our heroes leave England and meet an old friend.  Jack provides insight on his relationship with Diana, Stephen endorses living in the present and we have one of our favourite canon stories: We're going on a bear hunt! Ch 4.