Marshal Ney: A Dual Life

by Legette Blythe

Marshal A Dual Life is a biography of Michel Ney, a French military commander who served during the Napoleonic Wars. Written by LeGette Blythe, the book explores Ney's life, from his humble beginnings as the son of a cooper to his rise as one of Napoleon's most trusted generals. The book examines Ney's military career, including his role in the Battle of Waterloo and his controversial decision to join Napoleon during his Hundred Days campaign. Blythe also delves into Ney's personal life, including his relationships with his wife and mistresses, as well as his struggles with alcoholism and financial difficulties. Through extensive research and analysis, the book provides a comprehensive portrait of Ney, revealing the complexities and contradictions of his character.

372 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2007

Reviews

[George Kasnic · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting diversion. Almost a century old, the story is engagingly written and easy to follow. Pretty much easily categorized as “historical fiction,” it is light with done heroic and no doubt apocryphal stories. No new history nor insights.

The book is actually based in an old conspiracy theory popular in the early 19th century, that French Marshal Michael Ney was not executed by a Bourbon firing squad, but was instead spirited away. He then emigrated to the US living in the Carolinas as a schoolteacher incognito until he dies. A ridiculous, yet harmless contention.