This narrative illuminated in [i[Fighting the British[/i] illustrates the incomprehension of being beaten. French soldiers, so accustomed to being triumphant for so many years, could simply not come to terms with defeat. Wilkin and Wilkin thus offer a fascinating perspective on the Battle of Waterloo and on the Napoleonic Wars more generally. It is diffcult not to feel sympathy for the plight of the masses who made up the bulk of cannon fodder for Napoleon. Their accounts, although perhaps not as well informed and sophisticated than their generals, grant the reader a genuine, and at times harrowing, description of their experiences on the battle field.

Journal of Intelligence and National Security

With a focus on how French soldiers and non-combatants experienced the Napoleonic Wars, Fighting the British delivers an excellent account of the view from the other side of the hill. This book is essential reading for those interested in a Grognard’s perspective of what it was like to fight in Napoleon’s army.

Jeff Bridoux, Lecturer in International Politics

This is a book which all those interested in the Napoleonic period will enjoy and return to time after time.

Gun Mart, June 2018 – reviewed by John Norris

This is an extremely valuable resource for those interested in life in the ranks during the Napoleonic Wars.

History of War

As featured 'On The Book Shelf'

Wargames Illustrated, January 2018