'Aussie Rick'’s Comments (group member since Jun 13, 2009)

'Aussie Rick'’s comments from the THE NAPOLEONIC WARS group.

My book for this theme read is going to be this 1996 publication that has been sitting in my library since March 1998 waiting to be read; "Fighting Ships: Ships of the Line 1793-1815" by David Tudor Davies.

Fighting Ships: Ships of the Line 1793-1815 by David Tudor Davies

The October theme read, Napoleonic Naval Warfare, is up and ready to go:

https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...

The October theme read is any book or books of your choice that covers Napoleonic Naval Warfare.

Betsy wrote: "Right, although it has a different cover because mine is the Kindle version. I noticed you gave it a good review."

I really enjoyed it Betsy, he not only covered the military engagements but also the politics involved within and between the various parties in the Peninsular.

Betsy wrote: "Actually I got this a couple of days ago. I've read lots of books on the Peninsular War, but not Charles Esdaile's version. I got it for a good price on my Kindle so I'll start it after the October..."

Which book of Charles Esdaile's did you get Betsy? This one:

Peninsular War: A New History by Charles J. Esdaile

Betsy wrote: "I just came across a passage that, while poignant, points out the out-dated nature of some of the narrative. The author praises the long distance riders who could do 100 miles in a day on horseback..."

One good aspect that came about through advancement in technology eh!

I read a copy a few years back, I think I found it OK but not great.

That would have made me quite angry, MR9!

Betsy wrote: "Am reading Jena to Eylau: The Disgrace and the Redemption of the Old-Prussian Army by Colmar Freiherr von Der Golz (1913). It is a condemnation of the losses of Jena-Auerstadt, and how the Prussian..."

I hope you enjoy the book Betsy. I am sure the author may have had a different opinion by 1918!

Glad to hear I'm not the only one having issues with Pen & Sword!

Betsy wrote: "AR, have you heard about a book that's coming out on September 30 called NAPOLEON'S UNDEFEATED MARSHAL: Louis Davout and the Art of Leadership by Martin Sullivan? It starts with Wagram. It's also a..."

I have seen it at Amazon. It's by Pen & Sword and I have gone off their publications lately, I find them expensive for what you get and not always that well researched. I will keep an eye on the title and see what sort of reception/reviews it receives before committing to buying a copy.

Great quote to finish off the book! After that, you may forgive the author a little for any embellishments he may have added to his account.

Betsy wrote: "Would anyone know of a book on the Sea Fencibles they could suggest? It could include other things as well. Thanks. I have a fiction book about them, but would like non-fiction."

Good question Betsy. I don't have any books on that subject, but hopefully someone will come up with a recommendation.

I know how you feel Betsy! I've been using my Kindle lately to save on some way-too expensive books in hardback.

For any of the battles and campaigns in the Peninsular I use this book as my reference:

The Peninsular War Atlas by Nick Lipscombe

Glad you enjoyed the book, bit of bad news about the maps! I find that really annoying!

Nice finish Betsy. How did you enjoy the book overall?

Scott wrote: "Soldiers are irreverent complainers Betsy, and they wear this as a badge of honour. Napoleon would have bestowed this title on his guard as a term of endearment knowing full well they would take it..."

Nailed it Scott!

It's an army thing Betsy, and no soldier is ever happy unless they are complaining :)

Scott wrote: "Here is a passage from Coignet's memoirs about the horrors of the Polish campaign. Everything I have ever read about this campaign lists it as being second only to Russia for hardships and terrible..."

I think you are quite correct Scott. The Polish campaign could be considered almost as bad as Napoleon's 1812 Russian campaign.