You read about John Paul Jones' famous battle with "HMS Serapis" in "Not Self but Country;" now read "The Crucible of Tradition" and empathize with his internal struggles and external battles after the victory. Treason, treachery, and infidelity plague him at every turn. Get reacquainted with Captain John Barry. Discover his humble peasant beginnings in Ireland. Experience the warm kinship in his loving family in the oppressive poverty of the eighteenth century. Accompany him on his rise to prominence and his personal struggle through two marriages. Meticulously researched, this novel, the second in the series, will introduce you to the men who secured America's independence while others framed her government. You will walk the streets of colonial America in scenes that were pulled from period maps and newspapers. Fight, grieve, and exult alongside the men and women who were the actual flesh and blood heroes of their day. Tommy Robinson, Author and Twentieth Century Submarine Sailor, wrote: I have just finished reading "The Crucible of Tradition" and it was a great read. Mr. Perry's attention to detail brings the characters to life and gives the reader a sense of being front and center. When sitting down to read this novel I feel that I have donned my best nautical attire and am sailing again with Captains John Barry, John Paul Jones, Jordi Farragut and others in this sweeping new sea saga. "The Crucible of Tradition" chronicles 30 years of colonial struggles along the Atlantic Seaboard, Caribbean Sea, and European waters. Landsmen, officers and sailors alike are all severely tested in their heroic efforts to establish a new nation and the fledgling Navy as a sea power. David Perry paints a vivid detailed picture with his pen, placing you on deck, in the rigging, and behind the cannon in explosive battles on the high seas against the British, pirates, and privateers. The reader will become part of the war for independence. Happy ready, and Fair Winds and Following Seas Here are more "Bravo Zulus" from a fleet of salty flag officers. "An illuminating account of the remarkable intrepidity of our nation's earliest maritime adventurers. Searing descriptions of life in the early colonies and beyond, reminding us of the sacrifice of those on whose shoulders we stand. Nautical historical fiction at its best " -Rear Admiral Steve Eastburg, United States Navy (Retired) "'Crucible of Tradition is author Dave Perry's outstanding sequel to "Not Self but Country." The intriguing way that actual figures are woven with fictional characters, in a setting that uses historically authentic language and meticulous detail, brings to life the Continental Navy during a crucial time in our nation's history. Many of the traditions, customs, and culture the U. S. Navy adheres to today are articulately illuminated in this well-written and entertaining book." -Rear Admiral Greg Nosal, United States Navy (Retired) "Another spellbinding nautical adventure from Dave Perry. If you love history, enjoy tales of life at sea, and are open to being completely captivated and transported to the beginnings of America's maritime heritage, then The Crucible of Tradition is a must read for you. A must have for any nautical library " -Rear Admiral Tony Kurta, United States Navy (Retired)