Of Living Valour Pa

by Barney White-Spunner

Publishing to coincide with the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo, for the first time a modern British history tells the story of the against-the-odds triumph through the accounts of the regimental officers and soldiers whose bravery and resolution achieved victory. The author has used many unpublished sources, letters and diaries of ordinary British soldiers, in the vein of Stephen Ambrose's highly successful Band of Brothers..
With a concise, fast-moving account covering, ex-Commander of the British Army Barney White-Spunner tells the story through the experiences of those who fought there and their families, offering his unique perspective on the events. The story focuses on mens' personal feelings and their relationships, with each other, their families, their leaders and their enemies. It tells the stories of their lives, what they had left behind and why and what they went back to. It vividly captures their daily routine, their life in camp and how they fought at first hand, their fear, excitement and exhaustion.
The Battle of Waterloo was one of the most significant ever fought by a British army, but it was also one of the most bloody with about 50,000 men losing their lives over three days. What was it like for those who fought and for their families waiting at home? This is their story.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, War, 19th Century, Military Fiction

470 pages, Paperback

First published March 26, 2015

Reviews

[Roger Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Battle of Waterloo is a well-trodden historical path where dozens of historians have searched for clarity amongst the fog of war and in this battle, fought by 200,000 in such a small space there was plenty of fog. So what does White-Spunner add to the history? He adds context and depth that others have ignored. Most, like Knight, Longford and Howarth write well but have focused on the management of the battle. Crane (Went The Day Well) also brought personal accounts to his narrative but it lacked depth of feeling. White-Spunner is himself an experienced and accomplished soldier and not only draws out the soldier’s experience but places their behaviour in context. If the French are still confused on how they lost this battle they should read Of Living Valour and they will understand why the British were stronger at critical times. White-Spunner also dispels some of the wives-tales that surround this time and place. I strongly commend this book to you.

[Rabspur · Rating 4 out of 5]

First time I have read a book by the author a well researched book on the first hand accounts from the men that fought at the battle of Waterloo. Very graphic account of the horrific injuries sustained by the French and the allies, an easy read and plenty of maps illustrated of the battle which helps give an understanding of the battle formations of both sides. I would recommend this book for those who have an interest in the famous battle.

[John Coke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sustained quality. Strong narrative, amongst other things providing both a clear description of the battle and a timeline that arcs into the second half of the Victorian era. Excellent use of soldiers’ correspondence and memoirs. Well written with impetus. A very good read.

[Lee Tait · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent account of Waterloo and some of the Heroic souls who fought there. Author done a cracking job bringing it to life and ill be looking for more of his books to read. 5 Star

[Tyler Freeland · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awesome. Reading this, put a musket in my arms on the battlefield at Waterloo.