Christopher Summerville Knihy

Few episodes of British military history have been as dramatic as Sir John Moore's retreat to Corunna. March of Death is the full story of that adventure and a gripping tale of a fight for survival amidst the Spanish snow. In the bitter winter of 1808, a small British force found itself outnumbered and outmanouevered by a French army led by none other than the emperor Napoleon. Faced with crushing defeat, the British, commanded by Sir John Moore, turned and began a legendary march through the snow and ice of northern Spain to freedom and escape. Napoleon, swearing that he would drive the British leopard into the sea, pursued and an epic was born. March of Death is the story of the terrible retreat through the eyes of those who were there and who survived. Relating the horrific ordeal through excerpts from survivors' diaries, letters, memoirs and reports, this fascinating narrative brings to life the heroism and glory of a real fight for survival.

The 1807 campaign against Russia nearly marked Napoleon's first defeat, highlighted by the intense battle at Eylau where he faced a larger Russian force. The narrative emphasizes the pivotal role of Murat, whose legendary cavalry charge helped secure a French reputation. Christopher Summerville presents a detailed and engaging account of this conflict and Napoleon's victory at Friedland, utilizing the Campaign Chronicles format to chronicle events meticulously, including orders of battle that outline the command structure and military strengths of both sides.