This is an impressive piece of work that brings us into Craufurd’s world, and gives us a picture of a far more complex man than just the simple martinent of legend.

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History of War

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Portsmouth Napoleonic Society

“I had been waiting for this to be published and I was not disappointed. A Tour de force from Ian Fletcher, this has obviously been a long time in the making. This book charts Craufurd's eventful military life and his seldom seen home life. Some great illustrations from Christa Hook help illuminate the story. This is a large tome and well worth reading the 616 pages. This has to be essential reading for all students of the Peninsular War and one of it's most charismatic characters."

Vic Powell, Portsmouth Napoleonic Society

Any student of the Peninsular War and the wider era should read this book – it brings to life one of the more complex characters in Wellington's Army and removes the myths and stereotypes that have built up around him. Unless someone discovers a treasure trove of information about Craufurd that Ian Fletcher has missed, I would argue that this is the definitive work. If you're a young officer in The Rifles, I'd pick up a copy as I sense that this will provide a useful reference for future education (as awarded by the Adjutant).

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ARRSE (Army Rumour Service)

...this is a particularly good overview of a very enigmatic character, where a number of his failings have been discussed at length in a serious attempt to view Robert Craufurd from all sides alongside his creditable successes.

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The Napoleon Series

This is a particularly good overview of a very enigmatic character, where a number of his failings have been discussed at length in a serious attempt to view Robert Craufurd from all sides alongside his creditable successes.

Gareth Glover, The Waterloo Association

The extraordinary story of a Flashman-like man whose career as a general to the Duke of Wellington has only been partially told in the past. Ian Fletcher superbly redresses the balance.

Books Monthly

In writing this book, the author has done exactly what a good biographer should - provided a deeper understanding of his subject's personality and experience, as well as his state of mind when called upon to make certain important decisions, In doing so, the author contradicts in some cases the myths, while in other cases he confirms them. More impressive than this, though, is that Fletcher brings the reader as close as surely must be possible to knowing Robert Craufurd, the man behind the myth.

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1/72 Scale Plastic Napoleonic Figures

This book requires concentration and attention but it is well worth it. The character of Craufurd comes through and the author places him in the context of the times.

Michael McCarthy. Battlefield Guide

Michael McCarthy

I had been waiting for this to be published and I was not disapointed. A Tour de force from Ian Fletcher, this has obviously been a long time in the making. This book charts Craufurd's eventful military life and his seldom seen home life. Some great illustrations from Christa Hook help iluminate the story. This is a large tome and well worth reading the 616 pages. This has to be essential reading for all students of the Peninsular War and one of it's most charismatic characters.
Vic Powell Portsmouth Napoleonic Society

Vic Powell