Sharpe’s Storm: Richard Sharpe and the Invasion of Southern France, 1813 – Wellington’s Audacious Plan: Survive the Brutal Winter and Defeat Napoleon (Sharpe, 19)

The Napoleonic Wars had been ongoing between France and England for over a decade, with various shifts in momentum. Major Richard Sharpe is an undaunted leader unafraid to buck orders and rile the feathers of uptight superiors. He is a commanding officer who values his men and doesn’t take the loss of soldiers lightly, even in victory. After his latest triumph, he is summoned to meet Lord Wellington. Sharpe believes he is about to be promoted, but is instead frustrated that he will be tasked with overseeing the safety of a friend of Lord Wellington, Rear Admiral Sir Joel Chase. Despite his frustration at being a chaperone, Sharpe is a loyal soldier and won’t refuse the command of his superior and friend, Lord Wellington. However, Sharpe’s thrust into Southern France is fraught with danger, and keeping Chase safe may prove harder than he thinks.

Bernard Cornwell has proven to be a master of standout Historical Fiction (“1356”), and his latest effort continues in that vein. Sharpe’s Storm is the latest thrilling narrative in the saga of Richard Sharpe, yet he continually proves to be a fascinating character possessed of loyalty to his country and a steely resolve.