The War in the Peninsula, 1808-1814

Napoleon’s war for Spain and PortugalThe author of this book, Alexander Innes Shand, was a prolific writer of his day producing popular histories, biographies of renowned soldiers, novels and as a notable field sportsman numerous works on hunting, shooting and fishing. He was also a newspaper correspondent and covered the Franco-Prussian War for The Times followed by a book about his experiences during the conflict. His particular interest in the Peninsular War resulted in two books, the one you are now holding and the other about the careers of Wellington’s Lieutenants (also published by Leonaur). As one might expect from a professional writer Shand guides his readers through the Peninsular War in a comprehensive but easy to read style. His narrative covers more of the operations of the Spanish Army in the field than British historians usually do, but in the main he offers an even handed overview of all of the participants. When first published this book contained few maps, Leonaur has added to these especially as regards battle plans and therefore should not be confused with other editions. For those interested in the war in the Iberian peninsula Shand’s book is a good and accessible history that is useful for those new to the subject and for another perspective.Leonaur editions are newly typeset and are not facsimiles; each title is available in softcover and hardback with dustjacket.