Subject

France -- History, Military -- 19th century -- Fiction Books

Best books

Arthur Conan Doyle

The Adventures of Gerard

"The Adventures of Gerard" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century, specifically around the turn of 1903. The narrative follows the whimsical exploits of Etienne Gerard, a flamboyant and self-assured colonel in the French Hussars during the Napoleonic Wars. Through Gerard's eyes, readers are introduced to his colorful adventures as he encounters a variety of characters and challenges, revealing both his bravado and his deeply human emotions. The opening portion of the book sets the stage for Gerard, who delights in recounting his spirited tales to friends in a café. He introduces himself as a brave soldier who has seen many cities, humorously dissecting their layouts and expressing his opinions on both art and warfare. As he reminisces about his time in Venice, the story unfolds into an incident that led to him losing part of his ear—a humorous yet adventurous prelude that hints at the mix of romantic ideals and absurd situations to follow in Gerard’s adventures. The story immediately draws readers into Gerard's personality, with a blend of charm and bravado framing his exploits in a lighthearted manner.

Arthur Conan Doyle

The Exploits of Brigadier Gerard

"The Exploits of Brigadier Gerard" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a collection of historical fiction stories written during the late 19th century. The book chronicles the adventures of Lieutenant Etienne Gerard, a dashing and somewhat flamboyant officer in Napoleon's army, showcasing his exploits on the battlefield and in encounters reflecting the spirit and chaos of war. At the start of the book, the narrative introduces Brigadier Gerard as an esteemed figure and a repository of tales from the Napoleonic era. He recounts his military experiences, specifically his mission to transport remounts during the harsh winter of 1807. The opening chapter sets the stage for several encounters, including his engagement with Sub-Lieutenant Duroc who seeks revenge against an antagonist from his family’s past. This initial tale dives into themes of honor, valor, and the camaraderie of soldiers, all while touching on the personal quests that intertwine with larger historical events, leading to adventures filled with danger and intrigue.

Arthur Conan Doyle

Napoleonin sotilaan seikkailut

"Napoleonin sotilaan seikkailut" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a collection of adventurous tales set in the era of Napoleon’s military campaigns, likely written in the early 20th century. The book features Captain Etienne Gerard, a hussar officer, as he recounts his various escapades, including his encounters with art, love, and wartime drama amidst the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars. At the start of the story, the aging Captain Gerard reflects on his exploits and introduces his youthful adventures in Venice. He details the misadventures that lead to his entanglement with the locals and a fateful encounter with a gondolier who unexpectedly attacks him. Captured and taken to an ominous location, Gerard's bravery is tested as he navigates the complexities of his predicament, all while his thoughts linger on the beautiful Lucia, showcasing the intertwining of personal passion with the perils of war. The tone combines humor with a sense of honor, setting the stage for a captivating tale of courage and misfortune.

Arthur Conan Doyle

Etienne Gerards Bedrifter

"Etienne Gerards Bedrifter" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a series of historical short stories published between 1894 and 1910. The tales follow Brigadier Etienne Gerard, a vain but brave French Hussar officer during the Napoleonic Wars. Utterly convinced he is France's greatest soldier, swordsman, and lover, Gerard narrates his adventures across Europe from his retirement in Paris. His obsession with honor and glory leads him through daring exploits in Spain, Portugal, Italy, Germany, and Russia, blending comedy with the drama of Napoleon's campaigns.

Recently surfaced classics