Brilliant
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Contrary to most other Sharpe-novels this is one isn't based on any real campaign or battle but (almost) entirely fictional, and I must say I for one would not object if Cornwell wrote more of the same, where he can shape the plot entirely to his own satisfaction. And my word, shape it he does!
"Sharpe's enemy" has all the ingredients of a classic: gallant enemies, incompetent superiors, Sharpe's trusted Riflemen, beautiful women, and a battle against all odds. It swept me off my feet, I hope it does the same for you.
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Incredibly fantastic, incredibly moving
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Looking for an emotional ride? Forget lovey-dovey novels and epics by Byron and settle down with Sharpe's Enemy! Told as only Cornwell can, expect dangerous plots, heroic decisions, edge of your bed pillow (or seat!) action and for something you may not expect to experience from the manner of the narrative. Absolutly fantastic! Simply brilliant! My congratulations to Cornwell on such a novel!
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The Supreme Sharpe Story
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I have read all of the Sharpe novels. This is the best. I take it out on a cold winter night every couple of years to find a cast of truly remarkable characters who have become old friends: the indestructable Patrick Harper and the rest of the Green Jackets: Harry Price is there with the Red Coats: evil and dangerous enemies Obadiah Hakeswill and Pierre Ducos: the incomparable "Lady" Josefina; Sharpe's incredible wife, Teresa; Two new allies appear in this story: Major General Nairn, who is introduced in one of the most hilarious and outlandish accounts in any of the Sharpe books, and "Sweet" William Frederickson,a thoughtful intellectual looking for a fight; Hogan and Wellington and a courageous French colonel who allies himself with Sharpe round out the cast. This book has humor, action, adventure, and tragedy. As a new Major, Sharpe shows that he can outthink and outfight his enemies, both foriegn and domestic! It is the supreme Sharpe story!
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An excellent read
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I love the Sharpe books and this is one of the best I have read. vivid battle scenes, pulsating plot and a savage twist at the end. One of those books that you just cannot put down.
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All-time favourite
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Sharpe's Enemy is the first "Sharpe" novel I ever read, some twelve years ago. To this day it remains my all-time favourite, not only in this series but of any historical fiction. It contains all of Cornwell's best creations in terms of characters: in addition to Sharpe himself we see the indestructable Patrick Harper, the formiddable enemies Obadiah Hakeswill and Pierre Ducos. There is the "Lady" Josefina, and Sharpe's Spanish wife, Teresa. Two new allies are also introduced in this story: Major General Nairn, and "Sweet" William Frederickson who will both have important roles to play in later stories. Harry Price is there, as drunk as ever, and even Hogan and Wellington himself put in brief appearances. In Sharpe's Enemy, there are, as ever, enemies on both sides. It is Cornwell's gift to depict complex characters which really come to life, and we expect nothing less from the master of this genre. However, in addiction to the excellent plot, and fine description of war in the Napoleonic era, this story has an extra touch of humour which is sometimes lacking in the others. This is not to say that readers, old and new, will not be deeply moved by the novel's ending. In his Historical Note to the novel, Cornwell apologises for distorting facts somewhat. It is true that Sharpe seems to pop up in just about every major battle, and indeed many a casual skirmish, of the era, but the quality of the writing always seems to overcome these unlikely coincidences. This is an essential read for any fan of Richard Sharpe, whether you are new to the series or not. In fact, my advice to any new readers is to start with the original series (Sharpe's Eagle was the first) before going back to the more recent "prequels".
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