Simon Scarrow But Not As We Know Him

This is simply an excellent start to what looks likely to be a very high quality series. My only previous experience of Simon Scarrow has been the early books of the Macro and Cato series. Full of solid, hearty characters created by the author giving him much freedom in terms of their own story and behaviours.

Journaling the lives of these two most famous of generals from much more recent history is a significantly different proposition and naturally the result is a much different book. This is a fascinating look at the early lives of these two famous young men with the starkly contrasting upbringings they had up to their first tastes of command and battle.

What actually struck me was that despite the differences there were also fascinating parallels to be drawn. Their experiences of the capital cities, Paris and London, their difficult births and how they both succeeded by being somewhat unconventional. The stark differences in their personalities and motivations show that while these two both became great generals they were forged by very different fires. Although I am sure Scarrow does utilise a certain amount of poetic license seeing this most tumultuous part of history through the double aspect of both their lives makes Young Bloods truly fascinating reading.

The book really gathers pace towards the end and thoroughly sets the scene for what is to follow. The narration by Jonathan Keeble is first class. He is set a tough task with so many characters and accents but he rises to the challenge like a thoroughbred.

In very short, this is a different Simon Scarrow to what I've personally seen before but it's just as good, if not better. I have extremely high hopes for the rest of this series when it is made available.

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26 people found this helpful

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pretty good story especially napoleon story. thought the Arthur wesley one could have been more military focused.

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Engaging and informative.

Splendid story entwined around the history of these key figures from history. Some of the references to future events were to my mind slightly wince enducing, for example the use of the reverse slope to protect Wellington's toy soilders while playing in the nursery but overall a very enjoyable book.

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Fascinating

Really enjoyed the story of their early lives, and am looking forward to the 2nd novel.

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Fabulously put together

Have sadly now finished all four books. Well crafted and such a great structure playing both characters off each other.
Such a great way to plug in my gaps in history.

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Detailed and identity

Great detailed account of the rise in power historically of two men we all know but putting a human face onto these legends. Fare in its account of the French and English frames of reference that coming from an Irish man.. We can judge people of today for what our ancestors believes and actions you can only do what at the time you think is right..

The human condition

Look forward to the rest of the story that I new of but now am aware of and its impact on the world

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5 people found this helpful

Great tale, fun characters, great narrator

I love this author. I enjoyed the roman Macro and Cato series so much I was nervous that this series would not match up. I was really pleased that Scarrow's high standard of writing continues. He writes the characters really well. You identify with them quickly and get really into the story. I love the narrator I just wish the new chapter statements where you change from one character to another, were slower and more pronounced so you don't miss that the character has changed. My husband kept missing the chapter announcements and got mixed up with characters.

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Masterful

First Scarrow story I’ve read, and it lived up to expectations. Plenty of detail to pay attention to, and cleverly told parallel stories developing the two characters and strengthening my sympathies with each.
Jonathan Keeble was brilliant as always, although I wasn’t always convinced by his Corsican accent. To be fair, I don’t know what Corsicans sounded like the 18th century…
Highly recommend this, and I’m starting the next one as soon as I get to this full stop.

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Historically interesting of the changing times

I really enjoyed the story and the development of the two main characters . I look forward to reading volume 2 of the story .

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Brilliant

Loved it. Top marks for narrative. Can't wait to listen to the next one. Great

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