David Buttery should be commended for these two well-written campaign studies. They provide a superb introduction for those interested in the French campaigns in Portugal! Hopefully he will complete the trilogy with a study of the second French invasion of Portugal – that of Marshal Soult’s campaign in northern Portugal during the first half of 1809.

The Napoleon Series - February 2012 - reviewed by Robert Burnham

In conclusion, the subject matter and objectives set for these two studies are entirely relevant. However, a considerable range of material has become available for this period in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish, providing very substantial potential for new insights into specific aspects of the campaigns that would have enhanced their narratives than has actually been included. Nevertheless, the author has widened the scope of the analysis and interpretation of events considerably beyond recent, Anglo-centric approaches covering, for example, the battle of Talavera de la Reina. As result, these two books represent useful, well-written, highly readable and enjoyable introductions to the campaigns of 1807-08 and 1810-11. Questions raised within them will undoubtedly provoke further discussion as to Napoleon’s strategy for the domination of Europe, British interventions in Portugal and Spain, and the outcomes of the war for Iberians, whilst gaps in their coverage of primary sources and their interpretation leave room for further, more comprehensive, consideration by historians more knowledgeable of French, Portuguese and Spanish sources.

The Napoleon Series - May 2013 - reviewed by Anthony Gray

His analysis is both interesting and enjoyable, admirably punctuated with judiciously selected eye witness accounts....Thoroughly researched, easily and very well referenced, it is a pleasure at second and even third acquaintance and a very worthwhile addition to any collection of the Great War with France 1795-1815. Chapter 12 will be particularly useful to visitors who wish to follow the campaign in Portugal and Spain on the ground. I thoroughly recommend it.

British Army Review