Just for a change with a book review I would like to start with something written after the story has finished. Bernard Cornwell often adds some historical information as an epilogue and also some of his personal feelings, in this case he mentions that he spent along time trying to come up with an exciting story for 'Waterloo' and in the end settled on the obvious - that the thrilling few days in June 1815 was enough of a story in itself and all he needed to do was insert his trusty characters.
The novel was the original ending to the 'Sharpe' series (another book has subsequently been added) and was the natural destination of a narrative that has taken our favourite swashbuckling rouge through every major battlefield of the Penninsular War.
The book is only set over 3 or 4 days and starts with the French push into Belgian lands and ends at the end of the battle. What happens in between is a brilliant and gripping account of one of the pivitol battles in Europes history, when superpowers met literally yards apart to decide the fate of kingdoms.
Richard Sharpe is back, after living in France with his lover he is drawn back by this final confrontation with the French and the desire to finally see and fight the Emperor himself. He is assigned to the Duke of Oranges staff, which gives the opportunity for much of the Sharpe-esque confrontation we so love, as the Young Duke is a bit of a prat. This high status also allows Sharpe a certain amount of mobility which is how he seems to appear at the thick of most of the action. Patrick Harper, Sharpes constant friend and companion is also brought into the battle, as are a few other characters who have travelled thought the story.
The novel remains true to most of the key points from the battle and is informative about what actually happens on the days, and it is very skillful that Cornwell has Sharpe as his constant eyes and ears at these, from the French advance, to the Duchess's Ball and up to the final attack by the imperial Guard. It is the duty of a hero to be present at these events and this is a brilliant example as to how it is done.
I really enjoyed the action and the humour of the book. Despite all the fighting that has gone before it you still feel the increased tension and terror in even veteran soldiers before and during this battle and this raises the stakes. Cornwell also ties off alot of the loose ends regarding supporting characters, such as Jane Sharpe and Lord Rossendale.
I would recommend this book as a must read for all Sharpe fans as it is the pinnacle of what our hero has been building towards. It is also an excellent stand alone book and a good reference source for a day of true British triumph.
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