Fox Books In Order

Publication Order of Fox Books

The British writer Kenneth Bulmer was an institution during his time leaving behind a legacy that continues to live on to this present day, as he produced plenty of novels that many are still currently discovering, as he largely focused upon the genre of science-fiction, looking at large and highly expansive series, establishing a style that was entirely unique unto him as an author of modern literature. Creating a number of series, he was able to harness a number of different styles that were to be revered by many, as the scope of his imagination remains unparalleled as well, with a whole host of readers still finding meaning in his work. With a penchant for long and dramatic series, he was not without wit either, as he would naturally draw the reader in, really allowing them to feel as if they were a part of the narrative and action, getting involved with the characters and story. Establishing many of the tropes and ideas that still remain to this very day, there’s still a whole variety of ideas and concepts that he’s provided to the industry of science-fiction, such as his work with the science-fiction fandom element, as he would work extremely closely with his fans, travelling extensively, getting involved on a ground level and interacting with them all, in both the United Kingdom and the United States. He would also write under a whole variety of different pen-names as well, much of the time using these pseudonyms as integral parts of his work, such as the ‘Viking’ series which wrote under the guise of a Dane using the pseudonym of Neil Langholm; a pen-name which would include certain biographical details of its own, many of which he would incorporate into his work. Another name that he would go on to use would be that of his pen-name of Adam Hardy, one which would also come to serve him well over a number of years. Focusing on the ‘Fox’ series of novels, he’d use the pen-name to write about the character of George Abercrombie Fox; an adventurer and all round tough guy who’d sail the open seas. Telling the stories of his various exploits, these wouldn’t so much be science-fiction as with his usual fare, but more historical yarns that took place on the high seas, filled with adventure. Setting him up as a tough guy, he would work at proving himself as fit to lead his men and fight for what’s right, never giving up in the face of any and all danger.

Typical of their genre, these yarns of the high seas would take place over the course of fourteen novels in total, as they would feature Fox working his way up from the basic role of seaman to commander. Starting out in 1973 with the novel ‘The Press Gang’, the series would run right through to 1977, finishing with the novel ‘Close Quarters’, as they would all be released within a relatively short amount of time. Charting the adventures of the seaman, it would chart his efforts to prove himself as a worthy commander and seafarer fit to rule the ship and his crew, a saga which stands the test of time to this very day.

The Press Gang

First brought out through the ‘New English Library’ publishing label, this was the book that would start it all, establishing the series as a whole. Originally released in 1973 it would introduce the character of George Abercrombie Fox for the first time, allowing the reader to gain a clear insight into who he is as a person. It would also provide him with his first adventure to contend with, allowing him to get involved in the action straight-away, introducing him to not just his crew, but the reader as well.

Working as second lieutenant aboard His Britannic Majesty’s thirty-two gun frigate Duchess, as he seeks to make a name for himself among the crew and his superiors. Seeing himself as naturally gifted for the job, he is cocksure and confident in his abilities, despite being a lot older than the rest of his crew, something that he continually tries to rise above. Rising to quarterdeck rank quickly, he is soon not above suspicion among his superiors, as they see his relation with rank and file suspect, something which leaves him as somewhat of a loner. Will he be able to prove himself? Can he face the dangers ahead? What will become of the Press Gang?

Prize Money

Initially released in 1973, this was published not long after the first, as it quickly followed up the action of the previous installment, allowing it to flow seamlessly for the fans worldwide. Continuing in much the same vein as before, it would go on to develop many of the themes and ideas from the previous novel, whilst also foreshadowing much of what was to come. It would also provide a variety of twists and turns of its own, allowing it to come alive, essentially giving it a personality and style all of its very own.

Set during the time of the Napoleonic Wars, this novel sees the aftermath of George Abercrombie Fox being picked up by a press gang, despite already having previously been enrolled in the Royal Navy. Despite this he is now a seaman on the open seas of the lowest rank once more, as he must work himself up and prove himself once again to those around him. His one major attribute and saving grace is that of his ability to fight for what he believes in, being somewhat of a reprobate with a heart of gold always ready to do the right thing. Can he fight for what’s right? Will he be able to cope with what lies in wait? What will become of the prize money?

The Fox Series

Excellent examples of their genre, this series shows a seamless transition across from science-fiction to historical adventure yarns for the ever versatile British author. Open for both long-time fans of the Bulmer as an author and casual readers of the genre alike, it’s a great window into not just the genre, but a whole other world of derring-do and bravery. As a character George Abercrombie Fox will continue to live on into the foreseeable future, as his story is timeless, with more and more discovering the novels every day.