The Battles of Bonnie Prince Charlie The Young Chevalier at War by Dr Arran Johnston

 

Bonnie Prince Charlie has intrigued me ever since I watched the film with David Niven, and learned about Flora MacDonald. There was much more to this Jacobite prince than the aura of romance which surrounds him, however. Unfortunately, Prince Charles's reputation has been ravaged, both on and off the field, because of the terrible defeat at Culloden, his actions as a commander and his alcoholism later in life.

The young prince arguably made great achievenments in the first place. In only two months, the 25-year old 'raised the standard, assembled an army, secured the Scottish capital and triumphed in his first pitched battle'. Other victories were to come, but, ultimately, it was all too difficult. Dr Arran Johnston restores the Prince's reputation to a large extent, however. It would probably have been impossible for anyone to defeat the English in his circumstances. Lack of French assistance, factional fighting, not enough funds, dreadful weather - the brave young Prince faced them all. He seems to have been an excellent commander who organised councils, listened to all sides and gained the admiration of his men.

This book also reads like a novel as we follow the troubled campaign. Itt is highly recommended.

I received this free ebook from NetGalley

EDITION	Hardcover
ISBN	9781399061148
PRICE