Many years ago I studied the Peninsular War for my O level GCE History exam. The associated romantic (for a 16 year old school boy) battle names have stayed in my mind ever since (Badajoz, Lines of Torres Vedras etc.). This book is such a pleasure. It is comprehensive in terms of covering the entire campaign and all the battles - even those - in which the British did not participate! I am not a historian but three aspects of the book appeal to me. First the amount of detail in the mapping is truly astounding with a battle description accompanying each map. The non-partisan nature of the whole book is to be applauded. Finally the presentation of the book is superb. It is presented in a quality slip cover which is both practical but also makes it a book to be treasured.
Not sure the family will be so keen. Now instead of being bored by me nattering on about the name as we drive past Torres Vedras, they will have to visit the Lines as well!