It’s been a while since I did one of these but for three days only, starting tomorrow, An Unconventional Officer, the first book of the Peninsular War Saga, is free on Amazon kindle. If anybody who hasn’t already read it would enjoy a story of love and war in Wellington’s army, now’s your chance. The promotion is from 19-21 September 2025. I hope you enjoy it.The year is 1802.
A fragile peace has been reached in Europe, but Britain is at war against the Maratha in India. In its Leicestershire barracks, the 110th infantry welcomes a new officer.
Paul van Daan is no typical young subaltern. Ambitious, talented and a charismatic leader of men, he has the means to buy his way up the ladder of promotion. He has an unconventional past, a fierce temper and a passion for justice which brings him into conflict with other officers.
As Paul searches for a way to adjust to the realities of life in the officers’ mess while remaining true to himself, he makes enduring friendships, forged on the battlefields of India and Europe. He also builds an unexpected bond with the unemotional commander of the Peninsular army, Sir Arthur Wellesley.
By the time the 110th joins Wellesley in Portugal, Paul has established a reputation as a respected officer, a courageous fighter and a shameless womaniser. Two women have shared his journey.
Rowena Summers is gentle and shy and brings companionship and stability to his life.
Anne Howard, the daughter of a wealthy manufacturer, bursts into his life like a shooting star, leaving him dazzled. Beautiful, intelligent and courageous, she refuses to conform to the expectations of the men around her, and changes forever everything Paul thought he knew about women.
From the slaughter of Assaye to the bloody battlefields of Portugal and Spain, this is the first book in the Peninsular War Saga which follows Paul van Daan and the 110th through war, loss, triumph and an unforgettable love story.
