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Men of Grit Adventure #2
The Boy Colonel: A Soldier Without a Name
The year is 1836. A mysterious young English soldier known as the “Boy Colonel” commands a crack regiment in the snowy wastelands of Siberia. No one knows his history. No one knows his name. The Cossacks want him dead—but are they the only ones? It seems his worst enemy may wear an English uniform.
The Boy Colonel strives to perform his duty, but when that duty becomes mixed he must decide which sovereign is greater — the king of England, or the God of the Bible. Treachery, intimidation, and deceit block his path. His choice of allegiance may mean the difference between life and death. Is he prepared to risk all to protect his loved ones?
The Boy Colonel strives to perform his duty, but when that duty becomes mixed he must decide which sovereign is greater — the king of England, or the God of the Bible. Treachery, intimidation, and deceit block his path. His choice of allegiance may mean the difference between life and death. Is he prepared to risk all to protect his loved ones?
344 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2012
2 people are currently reading
285 people want to read
About the author
John J. Horn
7 books78 followersAs the youngest child in a book-loving family, it took me a while to realize that there was such a thing as a boring book.
My special love has been the fiction of 19th-century authors such as G.A. Henty, R.M. Ballantyne, James Fenimore Cooper, Jules Verne, Robert Louis Stevenson, Charles Dickens, and more. Of course, these were imperfect men who wrote imperfect stories, but the themes they espoused, such as courage, diligence, mercy, protecting the weak, and fighting for the right has greatly influenced my writing. Although I don't seek to replicate their styles, I do find inspiration in their tales of adventure, and seek to communicate that in fresh ways to a new generation.
The greatest influence in my life has been my faith in God. I am a firm Christian, no 'buts,' 'excepts,' or apologies. My goal with each book is to glorify God and encourage readers to be more Christlike, even as they enjoy the action and adventure of each story.
My historical novels weave exciting plots into a background of historical reality. Most of my characters and their actions are fictional, but the world they inhabit is based on life as it really was. Technology progresses, fashions die or are reborn, the way we talk evolves (or devolves, depending on your point of view), countries gain or lose territory, and the world changes in many other ways through the centuries, but what it means to be a human being does not change. We face the same struggles, the same fears, the same temptations, the same victories, and the same joys as the citizens of Ancient Rome, or the knights of the Middle Ages, or the gentlemen of Victorian England.
Many complain that Christian fiction is “preachy.” Is mine? Well, I don't pause my stories to deliver diatribes or altar calls. But I absolutely do weave my faith in Christ into my stories and seek to communicate vital messages and themes in each novel. If a book doesn't have the potential to make you a stronger Christian in some way, it's probably not worthwhile reading. But that doesn't preclude action, adventure, and all the rest from any of my stories, because I find that a Christian's life is the most exciting of all.
I write mystery, intrigue, action, adventure, suspense, and wholesome romance.
I do NOT write blasphemy, cursing, magic, sensuality, evolution, or humanism.
My special love has been the fiction of 19th-century authors such as G.A. Henty, R.M. Ballantyne, James Fenimore Cooper, Jules Verne, Robert Louis Stevenson, Charles Dickens, and more. Of course, these were imperfect men who wrote imperfect stories, but the themes they espoused, such as courage, diligence, mercy, protecting the weak, and fighting for the right has greatly influenced my writing. Although I don't seek to replicate their styles, I do find inspiration in their tales of adventure, and seek to communicate that in fresh ways to a new generation.
The greatest influence in my life has been my faith in God. I am a firm Christian, no 'buts,' 'excepts,' or apologies. My goal with each book is to glorify God and encourage readers to be more Christlike, even as they enjoy the action and adventure of each story.
My historical novels weave exciting plots into a background of historical reality. Most of my characters and their actions are fictional, but the world they inhabit is based on life as it really was. Technology progresses, fashions die or are reborn, the way we talk evolves (or devolves, depending on your point of view), countries gain or lose territory, and the world changes in many other ways through the centuries, but what it means to be a human being does not change. We face the same struggles, the same fears, the same temptations, the same victories, and the same joys as the citizens of Ancient Rome, or the knights of the Middle Ages, or the gentlemen of Victorian England.
Many complain that Christian fiction is “preachy.” Is mine? Well, I don't pause my stories to deliver diatribes or altar calls. But I absolutely do weave my faith in Christ into my stories and seek to communicate vital messages and themes in each novel. If a book doesn't have the potential to make you a stronger Christian in some way, it's probably not worthwhile reading. But that doesn't preclude action, adventure, and all the rest from any of my stories, because I find that a Christian's life is the most exciting of all.
I write mystery, intrigue, action, adventure, suspense, and wholesome romance.
I do NOT write blasphemy, cursing, magic, sensuality, evolution, or humanism.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 13, 2017
3.5 stars.
YIKES! Another jampacked action-y novel from John J Horn. New characters, new craziness, new adventures, new relationships. So much fun! I’m not sure whether I liked this one or the first book, Brother’s at Arms better. I didn’t like the characters\humor as much in this one as I did in the first one, but I liked the more personal approach taken with this one, as we really got into the characters’ thoughts and feelings.
All in all, a crazy fun novel! Not a genre I choose to read all the time, but oh so much fun on occasion!
Recommended!
YIKES! Another jampacked action-y novel from John J Horn. New characters, new craziness, new adventures, new relationships. So much fun! I’m not sure whether I liked this one or the first book, Brother’s at Arms better. I didn’t like the characters\humor as much in this one as I did in the first one, but I liked the more personal approach taken with this one, as we really got into the characters’ thoughts and feelings.
All in all, a crazy fun novel! Not a genre I choose to read all the time, but oh so much fun on occasion!
Recommended!
October 11, 2021
What a wild ride! (And what a great cover.) Horn delivers another tale in the tradition of G. A. Henty or R. L. Stevenson. I didn't enjoy this one as much as Brothers at Arms, and I think that was largely due to the change in narrating style. Since this was in third person instead of first person, I wasn't viewing the story through the characters' eyes, and that made it harder to engage with the dramatic plot swings. Overall, I felt jerked around quite a bit. I really enjoyed the opening of the book, with Colonel Nobody and his men in the wilds of Siberia. The battle scenes were well done and I loved the camaraderie between the men (Jacques and O'Malley cracked me up). Then all of a sudden, we weren't in Siberia anymore. We were in England and there was a romance. Not that there was anything wrong with the romance; I liked the way Edmund helped Colonel Nobody (yeah, that got a bit confusing) understand the real meaning of love. But it wasn't Siberia. Just as we got back to Siberia, we were off to the tropics. (Incidentally, one might think the regiment would have a smidge of trouble adapting from subzero Siberia to the South Seas, but we already know they are highly versatile.) There was quite a bit of melodrama in the classic adventure story style: mysterious identities, eccentric hermits, brave soldiers making brave speeches, and chivalrous gentlemen preparing to fight to the death for their ladyloves. It did seem to me that much of the Christianity in this story was in the negative - the main characters are devout Christians and we know this because they don't drink, dance, or fight unjust wars. I agree with all of those things. But there's a lot more to Christianity than that, and I would have liked to see more living faith in the story.
There were some great action and adventure scenes, and the style suited the type of story. Horn's adroit hand with research and descriptions amazed me. The army scenes came alive, as did some of the nautical descriptions and the sights and sounds of London. I was afraid I'd have trouble with the dialects of Jacques and O'Malley, but they were actually quite easy to read, and I loved the friendship between Nobody and Edmund. If you are a fan of the aforementioned classic authors, there is a good chance you will highly enjoy this. I would have liked a whole book about the 42nd Regiment in Siberia, but this was the next best thing!
There were some great action and adventure scenes, and the style suited the type of story. Horn's adroit hand with research and descriptions amazed me. The army scenes came alive, as did some of the nautical descriptions and the sights and sounds of London. I was afraid I'd have trouble with the dialects of Jacques and O'Malley, but they were actually quite easy to read, and I loved the friendship between Nobody and Edmund. If you are a fan of the aforementioned classic authors, there is a good chance you will highly enjoy this. I would have liked a whole book about the 42nd Regiment in Siberia, but this was the next best thing!
August 8, 2019
*Deep breath* Okay, um . . . I really wanted to give this book four stars. But I just . . . couldn't somehow?
I liked the plot. Really, really liked it, actually. A boy colonel with a background shrouded in mystery, loved by all in his command? And then later is injured (this may sound awful, but I *cough* like it when characters get injured. You can maim them—just don't kill 'em.), and fighting for his life, and *stops before I give away spoilers* um, yes, please!!
But . . . somehow, I could never connect with any of the characters. The colonel was noble (pun intended, if you've read the book), likable, and an excellent leader. Edmund was the fabulous friend/sidekick. Jaques and O'Malley made me laugh more than once! Liana was super sweet.
But I could never relate to them.
Back to the plot—again, I loved the plot. But it never really drew me in, y'know? And I couldn't figure this out until I realized that it was the writing style. Mr. Horn's writing voice was like G.A Henty or Robert Luis Stevenson. Now, if I go into a book knowing that it's a classic, and expecting this style of writing, I'm more likely to enjoy it. I think the problem here is that this book is not a classic, so I wasn't expecting it to read like it did. Unfortunately, I'm not a big fan of this style, and thus the three stars.
What little romance there was I actually enjoyed! When the two characters loved each other, they weren't constantly making out, which was fabulous. But, I mean, it was set in 19th-century Siberia, soooo I guess that could have something to do with it.
If you enjoy classics, you'll definitely want to check this one out!
I liked the plot. Really, really liked it, actually. A boy colonel with a background shrouded in mystery, loved by all in his command? And then later is injured (this may sound awful, but I *cough* like it when characters get injured. You can maim them—just don't kill 'em.), and fighting for his life, and *stops before I give away spoilers* um, yes, please!!
But . . . somehow, I could never connect with any of the characters. The colonel was noble (pun intended, if you've read the book), likable, and an excellent leader. Edmund was the fabulous friend/sidekick. Jaques and O'Malley made me laugh more than once! Liana was super sweet.
But I could never relate to them.
Back to the plot—again, I loved the plot. But it never really drew me in, y'know? And I couldn't figure this out until I realized that it was the writing style. Mr. Horn's writing voice was like G.A Henty or Robert Luis Stevenson. Now, if I go into a book knowing that it's a classic, and expecting this style of writing, I'm more likely to enjoy it. I think the problem here is that this book is not a classic, so I wasn't expecting it to read like it did. Unfortunately, I'm not a big fan of this style, and thus the three stars.
What little romance there was I actually enjoyed! When the two characters loved each other, they weren't constantly making out, which was fabulous. But, I mean, it was set in 19th-century Siberia, soooo I guess that could have something to do with it.
If you enjoy classics, you'll definitely want to check this one out!
April 13, 2020
Wow. I really don't know what to say. I did not dislike this nearly this much the first time I read it.
For one thing, the writing style is not half as engaging as Brothers At Arms. For anther, Nobody is a very overdone character. He is always right, always has a reason behind every. single. action., and is never wrong about anything.
I did love the diverse cast in the book, even though it did feel forced sometimes. They were a fun cast.
I hated the "romance" plot in this book. It was so forced and weird. Him making himself love her was just. so. weird.
If you could just skip this one to get to the rest, I would. Book four was so much cooler.
For one thing, the writing style is not half as engaging as Brothers At Arms. For anther, Nobody is a very overdone character. He is always right, always has a reason behind every. single. action., and is never wrong about anything.
I did love the diverse cast in the book, even though it did feel forced sometimes. They were a fun cast.
I hated the "romance" plot in this book. It was so forced and weird. Him making himself love her was just. so. weird.
If you could just skip this one to get to the rest, I would. Book four was so much cooler.
July 22, 2013
Buy on Vision Forum or Amazon
Age Appropriate For: 12 and up (mild violence, mild romance)
Best for Ages: 12 and up
Brothers at Arms was so amazing, I couldn’t wait to dive into John Horn’s other book The Boy Colonel. The description sounded fascinating and unlike any books I had read.
There were two things about this book that detracted from my enjoyment. Before I expound on what I did like about the book, I want to address them. The minor one was the fact our main character, as the title suggests, has no name. He goes by Nobody, which can be a bit confusing at times for a reader. A couple of times I had to reread a sentence or two in order to understand what was meant. Although frustrating at times, having no name is one of the most important elements of the book.
My biggest disappointment was with the romance. It was godly and I really appreciate what I think John was trying to say with the romance; that love isn’t all about feelings. Too often in our modern day culture, we put too much stock into how we feel. However, I wish there had been a little feeling involved. Also, I felt the misunderstanding Nobody and his betrothed wife have went on longer than necessary. It just didn’t feel very realistic.
With all that said, I did enjoy this book. The adventure, like in Brothers at Arms, was excellent. It kept me turning the pages and on the edge of my seat. The Boy Colonel gets into many perilous situations and with God and his ingenious way of looking at things, he finds his way out.
His moral stands, even if you don’t totally agree with all of them, are refreshing. The Boy Colonel is more interested with what God thinks and doing what is right than what others think. That is a message young (and old) people desperately need these days.
Some of the banter of the men under the Boy Colonel’s command was fun. I loved the French and the Irish man especially. They created many of the light-hearted moments of the book and made me laugh many times.
Historically, this book couldn’t have been better. John Horn obviously did a lot of research and put in quite a bit of information, but did it in such a way that you didn’t feel you were reading a textbook; it was just part of the story.
I recommend this book for those who love historical fiction, adventure, and characters that take strong stands for what is right.
Was this helpful? Please vote it up on Amazon and like it on Goodreads
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
Age Appropriate For: 12 and up (mild violence, mild romance)
Best for Ages: 12 and up
Brothers at Arms was so amazing, I couldn’t wait to dive into John Horn’s other book The Boy Colonel. The description sounded fascinating and unlike any books I had read.
There were two things about this book that detracted from my enjoyment. Before I expound on what I did like about the book, I want to address them. The minor one was the fact our main character, as the title suggests, has no name. He goes by Nobody, which can be a bit confusing at times for a reader. A couple of times I had to reread a sentence or two in order to understand what was meant. Although frustrating at times, having no name is one of the most important elements of the book.
My biggest disappointment was with the romance. It was godly and I really appreciate what I think John was trying to say with the romance; that love isn’t all about feelings. Too often in our modern day culture, we put too much stock into how we feel. However, I wish there had been a little feeling involved. Also, I felt the misunderstanding Nobody and his betrothed wife have went on longer than necessary. It just didn’t feel very realistic.
With all that said, I did enjoy this book. The adventure, like in Brothers at Arms, was excellent. It kept me turning the pages and on the edge of my seat. The Boy Colonel gets into many perilous situations and with God and his ingenious way of looking at things, he finds his way out.
His moral stands, even if you don’t totally agree with all of them, are refreshing. The Boy Colonel is more interested with what God thinks and doing what is right than what others think. That is a message young (and old) people desperately need these days.
Some of the banter of the men under the Boy Colonel’s command was fun. I loved the French and the Irish man especially. They created many of the light-hearted moments of the book and made me laugh many times.
Historically, this book couldn’t have been better. John Horn obviously did a lot of research and put in quite a bit of information, but did it in such a way that you didn’t feel you were reading a textbook; it was just part of the story.
I recommend this book for those who love historical fiction, adventure, and characters that take strong stands for what is right.
Was this helpful? Please vote it up on Amazon and like it on Goodreads
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
December 4, 2013
4.5 Stars
13+ for moderate violence.
"The Boy Colonel" is a historical-fiction story of intrigue, adventure, mystery, and romance. I was grateful to find historical accuracy and colorful descriptions within its pages. While reading, I got flashbacks of the black-and-white film "Captain Blood". Certain elements also reminded me of Henty's "With Cortez In Mexico".
I have to admit it took me longer to get into this book than "Brothers At Arms" did. I think this had to do with the fact that I struggled to remember the identities of all the characters. A character list at the beginning would have been nice. Additionally, I had a hard time with the protagonist's name being 'Nobody'. It made reading certain passages difficult. I would have preferred his nickname, 'Noble', over Nobody or "the boy". However, as the name Nobody added to the overall mystery, it cannot be judged too severely. And I suspect the trouble it gave me would not be true for other readers.
The storyline itself was intriguing. I enjoyed the suspense, humor, and mystery of Nobody (although I had my correct suspicions from the first about his identity). I also really enjoyed the whole tea/coffee debate! Certain aspects of the style came across as slightly cliche, but, as I understood the author meant to strike a classical style,it did not bother me overly much.
The principles woven throughout the book were very refreshing. I was highly delighted with the stances taken on drinking, dancing, and the real meaning of love. I also loved the friendships.
Both romances were very predictable. But, to me, this was a part of the overall fun! I loved having the (shall we say?) feminine intuition of knowing exactly what was going to happen! But, I must say, the romance was a roller coaster of amusement and annoyance for me (all positively). As a woman, certain elements of the romance really frustrated me (at the characters, not the author). I believe Horn intended this and did a good job. Colonel Nobody is a man in the ways of war, but very much a boy in the ways of love. He was one confused individual. At first, I thought the misunderstandings between him and his betrothed went on a bit long. But, in the end, I realized the author had been building up to a climax: one that wrought some very powerful truths. Therefore, I ended up appreciating the character growth and felt the romance ended satisfactorily.
Guns, battles, ships, adventure, friendship, and clean romance - what was not to like? I recommend this book to all historical-fiction, Henty, and adventure fans. I also applaud John Horn for creating yet another edifying novel.
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The sentiments herein are entirely my own.
13+ for moderate violence.
"The Boy Colonel" is a historical-fiction story of intrigue, adventure, mystery, and romance. I was grateful to find historical accuracy and colorful descriptions within its pages. While reading, I got flashbacks of the black-and-white film "Captain Blood". Certain elements also reminded me of Henty's "With Cortez In Mexico".
I have to admit it took me longer to get into this book than "Brothers At Arms" did. I think this had to do with the fact that I struggled to remember the identities of all the characters. A character list at the beginning would have been nice. Additionally, I had a hard time with the protagonist's name being 'Nobody'. It made reading certain passages difficult. I would have preferred his nickname, 'Noble', over Nobody or "the boy". However, as the name Nobody added to the overall mystery, it cannot be judged too severely. And I suspect the trouble it gave me would not be true for other readers.
The storyline itself was intriguing. I enjoyed the suspense, humor, and mystery of Nobody (although I had my correct suspicions from the first about his identity). I also really enjoyed the whole tea/coffee debate! Certain aspects of the style came across as slightly cliche, but, as I understood the author meant to strike a classical style,it did not bother me overly much.
The principles woven throughout the book were very refreshing. I was highly delighted with the stances taken on drinking, dancing, and the real meaning of love. I also loved the friendships.
Both romances were very predictable. But, to me, this was a part of the overall fun! I loved having the (shall we say?) feminine intuition of knowing exactly what was going to happen! But, I must say, the romance was a roller coaster of amusement and annoyance for me (all positively). As a woman, certain elements of the romance really frustrated me (at the characters, not the author). I believe Horn intended this and did a good job. Colonel Nobody is a man in the ways of war, but very much a boy in the ways of love. He was one confused individual. At first, I thought the misunderstandings between him and his betrothed went on a bit long. But, in the end, I realized the author had been building up to a climax: one that wrought some very powerful truths. Therefore, I ended up appreciating the character growth and felt the romance ended satisfactorily.
Guns, battles, ships, adventure, friendship, and clean romance - what was not to like? I recommend this book to all historical-fiction, Henty, and adventure fans. I also applaud John Horn for creating yet another edifying novel.
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The sentiments herein are entirely my own.
October 2, 2015
After hearing good things about this book from others, I decided to pick up this book to read. I was certainly not disappointed. John J. Horn wove a fantastic story that I really enjoyed that was full of intrigue, mystery, and some clean romance.
What I liked: All of the characters were very well developed and they all had me laughing at times, but also sad with them when they were struggling. One of my favorite characters was Liana. I loved her strong Godly character and then how Nobody pursued her after realizing that he did love her. Jacques and O’Malley were HILARIOUS and always had me laughing at their antics and Edmund’s loyalty was touching.
What I disliked: There isn’t anything really that I DIDN’T like.
Overall, this was a great story and I’m looking forward to Brothers at Arms: Treasure & Treachery in the Amazon!
What I liked: All of the characters were very well developed and they all had me laughing at times, but also sad with them when they were struggling. One of my favorite characters was Liana. I loved her strong Godly character and then how Nobody pursued her after realizing that he did love her. Jacques and O’Malley were HILARIOUS and always had me laughing at their antics and Edmund’s loyalty was touching.
What I disliked: There isn’t anything really that I DIDN’T like.
Overall, this was a great story and I’m looking forward to Brothers at Arms: Treasure & Treachery in the Amazon!
January 27, 2024
Yes, yes, the cover is ugly. This is a case where you do not judge a book by the cover. This book is really enjoyable, but not for the typical reasons. While I was interested to see where the plot would take me, I didn't keep reading because of the plot. Neither were the characters my favorite I've ever met. But the writing. It was pleasurable to read. I think it's important to know what to expect with this book. The writing style is not emotional, deep, or beautiful. Yet it somehow crafts words in a manner that make the simple act of reading enjoyable. I enjoyed the godly themes, but a couple times it felt thrust in there without being necessary (the dancing and drinking and swearing comments.) But overall I really enjoyed it and would certainly recommend the book.
April 28, 2015
This book is outstanding!!! And is currently number one among my faves. The characters are lovable, hateable, and so interesting. It never bored me, in fact, I couldn't put it down!! I was very heartbroken when it ended.
A Fandom has been founded, am I alone?
A Fandom has been founded, am I alone?
February 22, 2022
The year is 1836. A mysterious young English soldier known as the “Boy Colonel” commands a crack regiment in the snowy wastelands of Siberia. No one knows his history. No one knows his name. The Cossacks want him dead—but are they the only ones? It seems his worst enemy may wear an English uniform.
The Boy Colonel strives to perform his duty, but when that duty becomes mixed he must decide which sovereign is greater — the king of England, or the God of the Bible. Treachery, intimidation, and deceit block his path. His choice of allegiance may mean the difference between life and death. Is he prepared to risk all to protect his loved ones?
This was a great adventure story, and I really enjoyed it. I think that Noble was a great character, and I really enjoyed reading about him, especially as I tried to figure out who he really was. I didn't enjoy the first half as much as the second, but that's because I really like stories on an island. I also really enjoyed Liana's character, because I felt really bad for her in parts. However, I especially loved her faith (the same with Noble, for the record).
Edmund was a really nice character, and I was so excited every time we talked about Stoning, because I knew that he was related to Chester and Lawrence from the last book. I love it when books connect, and this book definitely did. I also liked the entire 42nd, because it was just sort of a different angle, and it was nice to read something different.
The Boy Colonel strives to perform his duty, but when that duty becomes mixed he must decide which sovereign is greater — the king of England, or the God of the Bible. Treachery, intimidation, and deceit block his path. His choice of allegiance may mean the difference between life and death. Is he prepared to risk all to protect his loved ones?
This was a great adventure story, and I really enjoyed it. I think that Noble was a great character, and I really enjoyed reading about him, especially as I tried to figure out who he really was. I didn't enjoy the first half as much as the second, but that's because I really like stories on an island. I also really enjoyed Liana's character, because I felt really bad for her in parts. However, I especially loved her faith (the same with Noble, for the record).
Edmund was a really nice character, and I was so excited every time we talked about Stoning, because I knew that he was related to Chester and Lawrence from the last book. I love it when books connect, and this book definitely did. I also liked the entire 42nd, because it was just sort of a different angle, and it was nice to read something different.
March 21, 2019
This book and Brothers At Arms are not in the same series, but they are slyly linked in ways that will continue to surprise you.
The more I read Horn, the more I see his little easter eggs. This is one of the most fun things about these books and you have to have a keen eye to catch them.
I've only read two of his three books, but I want to find the other to see if that one is connected too.
This book is similar to Brothers At Arms: adventure, romance, friendship, Christian morals, lots of fighting and boy language.
Perfect books for teen boys and I still don't always know why I like them so much! But I keep reading them...
The more I read Horn, the more I see his little easter eggs. This is one of the most fun things about these books and you have to have a keen eye to catch them.
I've only read two of his three books, but I want to find the other to see if that one is connected too.
This book is similar to Brothers At Arms: adventure, romance, friendship, Christian morals, lots of fighting and boy language.
Perfect books for teen boys and I still don't always know why I like them so much! But I keep reading them...
September 27, 2022
Without a shadow of a doubt, this was my favourite book in the Men of Grit series. I love this book and can read it over and over without getting tired of it! The Boy Colonel and his lieutenant were just fabulous and Jacques and O’Malley are simply marvellous. And of course the other members of the Squad and the 42nd were incredible. Due to the violence I would not recommend this book to young readers, but to anyone who can handle tough battle scenes and life threatening danger - read it. It’s awesome.
January 25, 2022
I really liked the Greek fire
November 18, 2024
My rating: 5/5 stars!! If six was an option, I would choose that.
What an amazing book! I have read all four novels in the Men of Grit series, and while I love them all, ‘The Boy Colonel’ is probably my favorite in the series!
The story is edge-of-your-seat exciting, fast paced, captivating, and morally solid. The characters are memorable, believable, likable and detestable (depending on which characters!) I simply could not put it down until I had finished reading it!
Some of my favorite characters:
1. The Boy Colonel (aka Colonel Nobody) is (obviously) the main character, and probably my favorite. As a mysterious, brave and gallant young officer, he finds himself treacherously opposed by jealous and dangerous rivals. His resolve to obey God rather than man is tested to its limit as he battles enemies both within and without.
2. Edmund Burke: Colonel Nobody’s faithful friend and loyal second-in-command. He stays with Nobody through thick and thin, and his dry wit and boyish enthusiasm balance Colonel Nobody’s more serious and reserved nature perfectly. He really brings out the lighter side of Nobody’s personality. Edmund is also a steady, levelheaded friend when Nobody needs someone to confide in and share his troubles and burdens with. The witty banter between them had me smiling throughout the story and their close friendship and camaraderie was very moving. Edmund really was the backbone of the story, in my own opinion!
There are so many other great characters, but I shall refrain from mentioning them all and instead talk about writing style.
Mr. Horn’s writing style is very unique, and I think that’s what makes his stories so memorable. It was as if I was actually seeing the story taking place before me as I read. The descriptions are vivid and colorful but in a blunt way - not so wordy that you find yourself skipping over blocks of text to get back into the story. There is also a tasteful blend of gritty action, internal struggles, intense, serious situations, and humorous moments that will truly have you holding your breath, laughing or crying throughout.
In all, this is a great read that would recommend for anyone 14+ who has a taste for nineteenth-century gallantry, gripping and intense action, and daring adventures!
Age recommendation: 14+ for semi-descriptive violence, some intense action, and minor romance (all handled in a mature way.)
*The views and opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
What an amazing book! I have read all four novels in the Men of Grit series, and while I love them all, ‘The Boy Colonel’ is probably my favorite in the series!
The story is edge-of-your-seat exciting, fast paced, captivating, and morally solid. The characters are memorable, believable, likable and detestable (depending on which characters!) I simply could not put it down until I had finished reading it!
Some of my favorite characters:
1. The Boy Colonel (aka Colonel Nobody) is (obviously) the main character, and probably my favorite. As a mysterious, brave and gallant young officer, he finds himself treacherously opposed by jealous and dangerous rivals. His resolve to obey God rather than man is tested to its limit as he battles enemies both within and without.
2. Edmund Burke: Colonel Nobody’s faithful friend and loyal second-in-command. He stays with Nobody through thick and thin, and his dry wit and boyish enthusiasm balance Colonel Nobody’s more serious and reserved nature perfectly. He really brings out the lighter side of Nobody’s personality. Edmund is also a steady, levelheaded friend when Nobody needs someone to confide in and share his troubles and burdens with. The witty banter between them had me smiling throughout the story and their close friendship and camaraderie was very moving. Edmund really was the backbone of the story, in my own opinion!
There are so many other great characters, but I shall refrain from mentioning them all and instead talk about writing style.
Mr. Horn’s writing style is very unique, and I think that’s what makes his stories so memorable. It was as if I was actually seeing the story taking place before me as I read. The descriptions are vivid and colorful but in a blunt way - not so wordy that you find yourself skipping over blocks of text to get back into the story. There is also a tasteful blend of gritty action, internal struggles, intense, serious situations, and humorous moments that will truly have you holding your breath, laughing or crying throughout.
In all, this is a great read that would recommend for anyone 14+ who has a taste for nineteenth-century gallantry, gripping and intense action, and daring adventures!
Age recommendation: 14+ for semi-descriptive violence, some intense action, and minor romance (all handled in a mature way.)
*The views and opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
June 3, 2017
I think I enjoyed this one a little more than Brothers at Arms, though at first I wasn't sure I would, since military battles are not my favorite things to read about. However, the character development, tensions, and mystery of the main character kept me reading--and eventually, a little romance, too. It seemed in some ways more in a classic vein than the other in the series--with more groundwork, descriptions, and sweeping drama--probably the settings helped, too. There were surprising twists. And don't forget the humorous Irishman and Frenchman, and the rhyming twins! I also really appreciated the lessons in fearing and obeying God above kings and lessons about love. For the last third of the book I read non-stop for about three hours, until I finished it at one in the morning. Just about the same thing happened for the last part of Brothers at Arms, by the same author. So, give them a try, elderly or small fry!
March 28, 2024
"Love is first a decision, then a feeling." Those words, heard once, changed my life.
I thank the Lord for giving me this book, these words, at a time when I was having an immense struggle with this very thing. There was a time when I did not (could not, it seemed) love anyone as I should. And I knew it. What I didn't know was what to do about it. This truth gave me the push to make the decision to love, ask God for His love, and then act it out. Now, thank God, I have come to be able to give that love from my heart. . . but I pray I'll never forget that I must do the right thing even when I don't feel it.
I thank the Lord for giving me this book, these words, at a time when I was having an immense struggle with this very thing. There was a time when I did not (could not, it seemed) love anyone as I should. And I knew it. What I didn't know was what to do about it. This truth gave me the push to make the decision to love, ask God for His love, and then act it out. Now, thank God, I have come to be able to give that love from my heart. . . but I pray I'll never forget that I must do the right thing even when I don't feel it.
November 20, 2013
I have this book for about a year now and never get tired of coming back and reading in it. The humor is great, the Godly morals in it are hard to find in literature, the action is fast-paced and exciting, and the romance is clean and a wonderful addition. This is one of my favorite book sever!
April 20, 2017
Amazing book. Full of action, excitement and Godly advice.
May 24, 2016
It was a great book and I really liked it, and well written, want to get my own copy.
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