A riveting account of the sensational events of 29 August, 1782, when Rear-Admiral Richard Kempenfelt, along with 800 crew and civilian visitors, drowned when their ship capsized in the calm while anchored in the calm waters of Spitshead. Part detective story, part historical narrative, this account brings together a wide range of contemporary sources, including eyewitness accounts to answer why and how this horrifying incident happened. In addition, the research presented calls into question William Cowper's portrayal of Admiral Kempenfelt's final moments in his epic poem "On the Loss of the Royal George." This tragedy has remained an important part of British Naval identity for almost 250 years, and deserves the honor of this thorough, thrilling book. Seaforth Publishing. 2020. Hb, Dj. NEW. $39.00