In novel a lot of things happens. Navigator is usefull with his "heart seeking bullets" ranging pistol, Grundstock Thunderers Sergeant carry Decksweeper (for some reason), Khemist buff all the guns of Thunderers, both Arkanaut Company and Thunderes can melee/shoot from the deck, Supremacy Mine can be reloaded. Dont trust novels too much, it's like vacation buleeten.
One thing which seems to be correct is that both Frigates and Ironclads die like a flies.
Oh and almost noone mentions Gunhaulers so yet another similarity ?