Waterloo: The Bravest Man

by Andrew Swanston

A brand-new, stand-alone historical novel, set during the dark days of the Battle of Waterloo.

Focussing on the lesser known, key moments of the Battle of Waterloo, which had a big impact on its outcome.

Published to commemorate the Bicentenary of the Battle of Waterloo is this summer.

June, 1815. The Coldstream Guards and the third guards are waiting impatiently for orders to move into battle against Napoleon and his French army. Every day seems endless as the troops wait for Wellington’s orders. When word is finally received, the path to glory it is not quite what the troops were hoping for. Hours of marching during the day are followed by restless nights’ sleep in the rain, dampening their spirits and weakening morale. When the group eventually encounter the French in battle, a special command comes from Wellington himself to Colonel James Macdonell of the Coldstream Guards: hold the chateau at Hougoumont and do not let the French pass. What happens next is history.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Military Fiction, Historical, Fiction

201 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 18, 2015

About the author

Andrew Swanston read Law at Cambridge University, and held various positions in the book trade, including being a director of Waterstone & Co, and chairman of Methven’s plc, before turning to writing. Inspired by a lifelong interest in early modern history, his ‘Thomas Hill’ novels are set during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms and the early period of the Restoration. Incendium is the first of two novels set in the 1570's and Waterloo:The Bravest Man describes the vital defence of Hougoumont at the battle. Beautiful Star and Other Stories will be published in early 2018. He lives with his wife in Surrey.

Reviews

[Sandra Shepherd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well written account of the defence of Hougoumont at Waterloo. The writer creates the atmosphere so you feel like you are there with the soldiers. It would have been helpful if the book had a map of the battlefield.

[Simon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always enjoyed Napoleonic history and particular the battle of Waterloo, spotting this on Goodreads caught my eye. The fight for the Chateau Hougoumont a micro but so important battle within the whole proved pivotal to winning Waterloo. A fascinating but often barbaric battle that cost so many lives. Worth a read. One extra of note I feel that a couple of maps would of helped readers who are unfamiliar with the battle to visualise Hougomonts position and it's layout. What next for Mr Swanson the battle of La Haye Saint and the 95th rifles sounds a winner.

[Mrs L E Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood, Gore and Bravery

Fascinating insight into one of the greatest battles. The scenes of war were graphically described in the bloodiest of terms. The bravery of all the men was highlighted and the terrible conditions they endured, little or no food and drink and towards the end shortage of ammunition. James MacDonnell was a hero as well as a compassionate man.

[Martin Robbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paints the helping battle

Really good read with good characters who actually existed. Makes we want to go back to Waterloo as now have a car greater appreciation of whY happened there.