26. Roderick Random by Tobias George Smollett

This was Smollett's first novel, published in 1749.  It tells the adventures of Roderick Random, poor and Scottish but well-educated, and much of it is about Roderick's career in the British navy.  In the end he discovers his long-lost (and rich) father and marries Narcissa, who has stayed true to him despite his long absence.

Smollett was a naval surgeon so Roderick's naval experiences are probably realistic (and horrifying).  I also found the prejudice against Scots, and against Roman Catholics, interesting.