Uruguayans and Paraguayans - Just to show I’ve not been totally idle!

I vowed to myself that despite the wonderful range available from the Perry twins I would never get drawn into gaming the War of the Triple Alliance (Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina vs Paraguay).  When Freikorps first launched their 15mm range in the late 70’s or thereabouts I resisted but…….

Then I got momentarily distracted and all of a sudden during our last India trip but one I ordered a bunch of minis from them. Well, lots actually. One good thing (?) is that the Perry plastic ACW boxes are quite simple to convert (mainly through a paint job) into  Brazilians. 

The Uruguayan army, one more battalion to do. Of course I also need to do the bases but I like to have a basing blitz and do as many as I can, ideally in the garden with a beer.

I had these 3d printed fortress guns laying about so they now have Paraguayan crews.

I am currently in the midst of painting a load of Brazilians. They’re nothing if not colourful. As indeed are all the armies in this bloody war. 

Another Book Review - The Piedmontese Fight against Revolutionary France.

When I first saw this book on the horizon I was very excited at the prospect of reading it. The French Revolutionary Wars is a period that I find incredibly fascinating. Forty-Four Months in the Alps: The Resistance of the Piedmontese Army Against Revolutionary France, 1792–1796 by Enrico Ricchiardi is a well-researched and richly illustrated account of a lesser-known and often overlooked chapter in European military history. Set against the backdrop of the French Revolutionary Wars, the book delves into the challenges faced by the Piedmontese army as it resisted the expansionist ambitions of revolutionary France..

 

The book is nicely structured, firstly examining the political and military situation found within the Kingdom of Sardinia under Victor Amadeus III. The initial lack of preparedness was an issue, as were the intricacies of their alliance with Austria. The author moves on to examine the organisation of the army, drawing extensively from national archives to provide detailed information on a wide variety of units, uniforms, flags, and weaponry. Not only are the line troops covered in great detail, but also the militia, volunteers, the elite troops, and the navy.  

 

The author provides a very useful and detailed chronological account of the war between 1792 and 1796, guiding readers (and me) through the strategic and tactical developments of the Piedmontese army, their performance in the field and their final acts of resistance.

 

Ricchiardi's expertise is evident throughout the book. His background and deep understanding of the history of the Piedmontese army, particularly its uniforms and flags, lends authenticity to the detailed descriptions and illustrations. The inclusion of 29 full-colour pages of contemporary artwork and some lovely original illustrations by Emanuele Manfredi which collectively add significantly to the visual appeal.

 

Published by Helion & Company as number 144 of their From Reason to Revolution series, this volume is a valuable resource for historians, military enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the intricacies of eighteenth century European warfare. The author’s thorough research, combined with visual richness, makes it a standout contribution to the field. It is a fascinating period, a colourful army and an enjoyable and enlightening read. I certainly learnt a great deal about the campaign and the army and can highly recommend it.

 

ISBN: 978-1-804515-77-5   179 pages; Paperback

Nine Years War 1593–1603 Review

I'm not getting much in the way of gaming done nor have I finished anything that's been lingering on the painting desk for weeks or months.  I do have a 'secret project' on the go but it'll have to say secret for now. I also desperately want to complete my Spanish Napoleonic army for 1808 in Denmark. I have enough troops painted for Romana's entire corps less one battalion. I didn't really need the Perry plastic Spanish but I am sure I can find a use for them somewhere? So here is another review.

Anyway......

James O’Neill’s The Nine Years War, Volume 1 is a masterclass in accessible and scholarly historical writing. Focusing on one of the most turbulent and formative periods in Irish history, O’Neill brings to life the complexities of late 16th-century Ireland with clarity, nuance, and a keen eye for military detail.

Key to this volume is O’Neill’s ability to balance the narrative with analysis. He paints vivid portraits of key figures such as Hugh O’Neill and Red Hugh O’Donnell, while also exploring the broader political and strategic context of Ireland’s resistance to English encroachment. His examination of the early phases of the war shows not just what happened, but why decisions were made, and how they shaped the course of Irish and British history.

The book benefits from O’Neill’s extensive use of both English and Irish sources, offering a more balanced perspective than many earlier works on the subject. I have to say that the author’s insights into terrain, logistics, and tactics reveal good understanding of early modern warfare, making the book especially rewarding for readers interested in military history of this period.

The book is well illustrated with eight specially-commissioned and very nice colour plates depicting soldiers and commanders of both sides. There are also a large number black and white illustrations and photographs of the battlefield and other landmarks referred to in the narrative which is always useful to the reader.

I found the book hard to put down. Well-paced, richly detailed, and backed by impressive research, The Nine Years War, Volume 1 is essential reading for anyone interested in Irish history, the Elizabethan era, or the dynamics of colonial resistance. It's a gripping and intelligent account that leaves me eagerly anticipating the next volume.

PS the picture on the front cover bears a striking resemblance to my old mate Joe Newton.

ISBN: 978-1-804515-52-5 151 pages. Paperback



  

All is Lost Save Honour - Out Now!

New Perry Spanish Napoleonic Sets

 

These arrived in the post today. They look amazing and I’m looking forward ( that is a lie as I hate sticking plastics together but…..) to assembling them. I don’t think I need any more Spanish as I already have 10 or 11 battalions of line and one of lights. I suppose I can justify a couple more so I have Romana’s entire corps in Denmark in 1807-1808. There were technically 12 line battalions from four regiments, two light battalions, three horse and two dragoon regiments and iirc three artillery batteries including one of horse. Mule more like I reckon. Anyway they are really pretty so that’s enough for me. I’m not really fussed about doing any for the Peninsular War but that doesn’t mean I won’t. 

More from Bruno Mugnai

Bruno Mugnai concludes his detailed examination of the military forces of the German states during the early reign of Louis XIV with a volume that serves as yet another authoritative reference. Wars and Soldiers in the Early Reign of Louis XIV, Volume 7 is the final instalment of a trilogy focused on the armies of the German states and is a distinguished work yet again demonstrating Mugnai’s dedication, refined narrative style, and exceptional artistic talent. As with the preceding volumes, it is part of the ‘Century of the Soldier’ series.

This volume provides a detailed examination of the structures, uniforms, tactics, and evolution of German military contingents between 1655 and 1690. The author covers strategic, political, and cultural contexts to offer a comprehensive portrayal of the military landscape during this period. Well-known principalities and numerous smaller states are documented with detail and historical accuracy. I found the section covering the history, events and armed forces of the Duchy of Lorraine particularly interesting. The appendices provide us with orders of battle and almost forensic details of German regiments, squadrons and companies between1657 and 1690, including information relating to their service, and where known, uniforms. There was certainly a lucrative and fascinating trade in hiring out regiments, even entire armies to employers such as the Dutch, the Empire and Venice in the Morea and elsewhere.

What distinguishes this work further is Mugnai’s original artwork, which enhances the text without overshadowing it. His illustrations are rendered with precision and historical accuracy and offer invaluable visual insight into the period's uniforms and equipment of some of the minor German players. In all there 10 colour plates, 60 black and white illustrations and four maps. These images complement the narrative and do manage to elevate it, serving both educational and aesthetic purposes.

This book is like its predecessors indispensable for historians, reenactors, wargamers, and enthusiasts of late seventeenth century Europe. Mugnai set a benchmark with each of the preceding volumes in this extensive series in how military history can be both rigorously academic and visually compelling, and this continues with this latest volume. His ability to combine authoritative research with engaging prose and high-quality visuals is unparalleled in the genre.

In summary, Wars and Soldiers in the Early Reign of Louis XIV, Volume 7 is not merely another book in the series; it is the culmination of an impressive amount of work researching each and every book in this fantastic collection.


ISBN: 978-1804517-49-9 197 pages, Paperback

Pavia Refought and a close run thing

Somewhat delayed from the original date I had planned but also earlier than it might have been due to unexpected circumstances requiring our early return from India.

So, I set this game up several weeks ago, and the troops more or less survived the attention of Catzilla and Catzilla’s apprentice. The town was pretty much levelled but that was easy to fix. This was actually the first game I have run here at the Burrow since early October last year.

We played the scenario straight out of the new Helion ‘All is Lost Save Honour’ wargamer’s guide to the Italian Wars (published on 12 April). Conrad, Paul and Dave took the French and Shaun, Nigel and Neil were the Spanish. I took control of the coffee urn and was on cat patrol. We used my heavily-fiddled-with Pike and Shot rules, mainly with changes to the stats and some characteristics but with a couple extra tweaks. I also knocked off a dozen random event cards to add to the ‘fun’ together with names and images of all the main commanders. The stream was a minor obstacle deducting 3” off the move of units crossing. The marshy ground and the camps reduced movement by half. The woods were all classed as open and no obstacle to any troops except pikes, not that anyone put that to the test. 

The photos are more or less in the correct order. The Spanish had the first move.

The city of Pavia. Swiss pike under Anne de Montmorency in the background next to the camp.

A better view of Pavia.in the foreground are more Swiss and light cavalry under Robert de la Marck.

Charles de Bourbon’s landscknechts in the foreground.over the stream is the French camp, the king, the Black Band, gendarmes and French infantry.

The Spanish army. Closest to the camera is Bourbon’s command, then George von Frundsberg with yet more landsknechts, then from the Mirabello Tower and beyond lots of Spanish and Neapolitan arquebusiers and heavy cavalry.

Down the table from the city walls this time. 

Bourbons landsknechts and de la Marcks Swiss look destined to meet head on.

A huge Swiss pike block with heavy artillery and the clutter of the camp, again Montmorency’s command.

The Black Bande cross the stream to try and overwhelm the Imperial landscknechts.

Spanish shot. I fielded two large units of these, and gave them an additional d6 for their controlled fire. 

The Spanish right facing the king and his gendarmes. 

Up the table from the garden end.

French gendarmes charged a unit of arquebusiers, who caused heavy casualties and a disorder. The arquebusiers held on due to some dreadful French dice rolling, then Spanish genitors hit them in the flank, breaking them.

The Black Band and Frundsberg clash.

The disciplined volleys from the Spanish arquebusiers prevented the French from launching any more attacks.

French infantry move up to try and drive off the Spanish.

A massive melee develops on the Spanish left, with Landsknecht against Landsknecht and Landsknecht against Swiss, involving hundreds of pointy pikemen!

I don’t think anyone expected this!

Despite heavy losses and a few nervous moments the Spanish destroyed the Black Band, while the Swiss decided to pull back to form a new line.

French light cavalry drove off some Spanish Genitors who had been lurking in the woods.

The gendarmes have been forced back behind the camp, leaving their infantry to the mercy of the Spanish.

The loss of this French pike unit was the final straw for their army. With the exception of the Swiss the entire army was now shaken. As that equated to more than half of their battalia, a Spanish victory was proclaimed.

Now that was an enjoyable game. It was also very close as until the demise of the Black Band a French victory was looking to be a distinct possibility, especially as by then Bourbon’s command was broken. As it was the French reached their break point first, and suddenly, so that was the end.

I think the scenario worked quite well. Still not a big fan of P&S but in the absence, in my opinion, of anything better I shall persevere. With all the various changes I’ve made they do work well and give the feel of an Italian Wars game (folks playing the period not the rules helps too). 

It was great to have some of the Burrowers round after such a long break, and choosing to play an Italian Wars game certainly ensured a colourful day. I really do NEED two more big units of Landsknecht pike as I had to borrow two off Conrad for this game. I also really need to go through the Italian Wars lead mountain and see what else I have that can be painted or disposed of.

Might even have a game next Saturday as it’s my 67th birthday.

The Battle of Warsaw, 1656

 Confrontation of Kings, 1656, the Three-Day Battle of Warsaw during the Swedish Deluge (1655 – 1660), offers an insightful examination of this historic conflict. The Battle of Warsaw in 1656 was a pivotal three-day event that saw the Swedish forces clash with the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth amidst the turmoil of the Swedish Deluge. In Confrontation of Kings, 1656, respected authors Michael Fredholm von Essen and Michał Paradowski provide readers with a comprehensive account of this significant encounter, combining thorough research with engaging narrative. This work serves as both an informative resource and an enjoyable read.

The book provides a detailed account of the battle, including tactics, troop movements, and battlefield conditions, while maintaining focus on the human element. Through thorough research, the authors offer insights into significant figures such as King Charles X of Sweden, Polish King John II Casimir, and Frederick William of Brandenburg, who influenced the battle's outcome. The narrative likens the battle to a chess match or tabletop wargame, incorporating political manoeuvring alongside physical combat. The authors highlight that seventeenth-century warfare involved both strategic alliances and military strength. The book illustrates how Swedish and Brandenburg forces achieved victory in the battle, within a context of shifting alliances and unexpected betrayals throughout the war.

The book commences with a concise introduction followed by an extensive section providing brief biographies of the key figures. This component serves as an invaluable reference, offering personal context for the numerous characters mentioned throughout the narrative. Subsequently, the book presents an overview of the War and The Swedish Deluge, followed by chapters on the military structures of Sweden, the Polish Commonwealth, Brandenburg-Prussia, and the Crimean Khanate. It meticulously details the orders of battle for all involved armies, which will be of particular interest to wargamers and historians. The account of the three days of combat is comprehensive and rich in detail. The concluding chapter examines the aftermath, inviting readers to reflect on the authors' well-supported conclusion.

While based on thorough research, Confrontation of Kings remains accessible. The authors balance detailed scholarship with readability, making it suitable for both historians and newcomers to 17th-century military history. Maps, illustrations, and colour plates help readers visualize the events.

For those with an interest in military history, diplomacy, or compelling narratives of ambition and strategy, Confrontation of Kings, 1656 is highly recommended. Authors Von Essen and Paradowski provide a detailed account of a significant yet frequently overlooked battle, presenting new perspectives on the nature of early modern warfare. The book is both informative and engaging, making it an enjoyable read for anyone interested in historical events.

Included within the pages of this book are 64 black and white images and photos, four very useful maps and 12 glorious colour plates commissioned specifically for the book and created by the talented Sergey Shamenkov.

The book is No. 127 in Helion’s ‘Century of the Soldier series’.

ISBN: 978-1-804516-83-6. 180 pages, Paperback

The Russian Patriotic War 1812, vols 2 & 3

As a lover of all things Russian in terms of the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, I was and indeed am very happy to see the next volume in Peter Phillips’ translation of Modest Ivanovich Bogdanovich’s second volume in the official Russian history of the campaign. Again, the translation by author, historian and linguist Phillips reads as if it did not have its origins in dusty mid-nineteenth century Russian archives.

The narrative starts where volume 1 left off, starting with the period after the battle of Polotsk and takes us through the appointment of Kutuzov as commander in chief, the horrors of the battle of Borodino, the French capture of Moscow and its subsequent burning, and the manoeuvring that led up to the battle of Tarutino in October 1812. I particularly enjoyed the chapter on the guerrilla war; not out of place in a more modern setting maybe.

The book benefits from a profuse scattering of original correspondence and reports which always add significantly to the overall narrative, and without which I always feel shortchanged in terms of depth of research. A very personal thing but I always like to put myself in the minds and thoughts of the people who were there, in whatever capacity and/or level of importance they may have held.

The appendices are again very revealing being transcriptions of contemporary reports and orders. There are of course several orders of battle and a number of well detailed maps of the theatres of operations and so forth.

This was an enjoyable book to read and one difficult to put down; I was up till about 03:00hrs finishing it off. As I’ve said earlier both for this volume and the previous one, the translation is seamless, which makes it so, so much easier to follow. I felt drawn in as I would a good novel. I have learnt a fair bit from this book, in terms of detail rather than generic ‘stuff’. For Napoleonic fans this is a must buy book, and if you’ve not bought volume 1 buy that as well. Roll on Volume 3 is all I can say.

ISBN978-1-804514-33-7 Soft covers, 421 pages.

The Russian Patriotic War of 1812 Volume 3: The Russian Official History is the concluding instalment of Major General Modest Ivanovich Bogdanovich's superb trilogy, now available in English as No.142 in Helion’s ‘from Reason to Revolution’ series. The author is meticulous in describing step-by-step, almost one frost-bitten foot after another, the events of Napoleon's retreat from Moscow until the remnants of the Grande Armée were chased from Russian territory, offering a comprehensive Russian perspective on these pivotal moments. 

 

I have previously reviewed the two earlier volumes, also published by Helion, both of which were excellent and certainly met my expectations in terms of the account of this campaign. This third volume is no different.

 

Bogdanovich was a distinguished nineteenth century military historian who had unparalleled access to Russian state archives. His narrative makes helpful references to other European sources, together with extracts from official and private correspondence, which together provide a well-rounded context to the campaign. The inclusion of detailed maps and battle plans certainly helped in my understanding of the strategic manoeuvres and terrain challenges faced during the war. Additionally, this edition features a brief review from sometime secret policeman, duellist, suspected ‘Decembrist’ and Freemason, Major General Ivan Petrovich Liprandi. His insights into contemporary analyses of the events is something I found especially revealing.

 

The highly detailed maps, 13 in total, are taken from original Russian sources, detailing strategic movements and battle plans such as Maloyaroslavets, Vyasma and Krasny. The appendices included detailed orders of battle and the book is finished off with an extensive bibliography. 

 

As with the preceding volumes, the book was expertly translated by Peter Phillips, and readers can be confident in anticipating a scholarly and thorough account of the conclusion to the 1812 campaign. 

 

ISBN: 978-1-804515-44-0   360 pages 13 maps, paperback 

 

The Honved War 1848 - 1849

If you're looking for a fascinating dive into one of history's more obscure conflicts, The Honvéd War – Armies of the Hungarian War of Independence 1848–1849 by Nigel J. Smith is a delightful read that offers both insights and a bit of adventure into Hungary’s struggle for independence in the mid-19th century. It is No. 47 of Helion’s from Musket to Maxim series. With a focus on the Hungarian army – the Honvéd – and their battle for freedom in 1848-1849, the author brings to life the drama, the tactics, and the triumphs (and defeats) of this bold but ultimately tragic campaign.

 

The writing style is such that it makes complex military movements and political intricacies easy to follow without feeling like you're drowning in military jargon. The author’s clear explanations about the structure and operations of the Hungarian army give you a fascinating snapshot of how this ragtag group tried to take on some of the most powerful forces in Europe at the time. And don’t worry, if you’re not a military expert, Smith’s easy-to-understand approach ensures you won’t be lost in the weeds of strategy.

 

One of the most enjoyable parts of the book is how it brings out the character of the Hungarian soldiers and commanders. These weren’t just faceless figures; Smith captures their determination, struggles, and, at times, their idealism. You get a real sense of the passion that drove the Honvéd forces, even if their hopes for independence were ultimately dashed.

 

The book also does a great job highlighting the broader context of the Hungarian Revolution, providing insights into how this conflict fits into the larger European movements of 1848, where revolution was in the air across the continent.  You will see how Hungary’s fight was part of a much bigger wave of change, giving readers a broader sense of the stakes involved.

 

The book looks first at the Imperial Kaiserliche-Konigliche Armee and how it was organised. We then have detailed chapters on the organisation of the Hungarian and Russian armies, followed by regimental organisation, tactics and weapons. The book rounds off with descriptions of the main commanders, the uniforms and flags and standards of each of the armies and orders of battle. A great deal of information has been packed into these chapters, and the author has drawn on a wide range of sources, including contemporary accounts, military records and private correspondence.

 

The battles and tactics are examined, with enough detail to satisfy military historians, history enthusiasts, casual readers and war gamers.

 

The book benefits from 14 gorgeous colour plates. Some are contemporary illustrations, but the others are specially commissioned pieces for the book. There are also a large number of black and white images, tables and charts explaining the organisation of the army and such like, a map of the region and several orders of battle, which are invaluable for anyone interested in perhaps wargaming the uprising.

 

The Honvéd War is a well-rounded exploration of an often-overlooked chapter in European history. It is educational and entertaining; more than enough to keep you turning pages. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about Hungary's struggle for independence, this book will give you enjoyment and insight into the war. If you are a wargamer, this book could hit your pocket hard! Highly recommended for anyone looking for a fresh historical perspective!

 

ISBN 978-1-804515-60-3.   187 pages, softback

Holiday reading - The Northern Coalition Against Napoleon 1810-1815 and The Campaign on the Loire 1870-1871

A break away from home has given me the opportunity to carry out some light holiday reading; ok ‘light’ is all relative I guess, but as I my nature allows me to absorb books I find it very relaxing and satisfying. 

Patrik Björk's The Northern Coalition Against Napoleon: The Campaigns of Bernadotte, Britain and the Swedes 1810-1815 os No 143 in Helion’s ever-expanding from Reason to Revolution series. It is a fascinating insight into the intricate balancing act of diplomacy and warfare that ultimately led to Napoleon's downfall. This hefty book (almost 500 pages) focuses on the often-overlooked Northern Coalition, created by the former French Marshal Bernadotte, who, with British support as was the norm in those days, sought to overthrow his previous master Napoleon.

The author has consulted a staggering number of sources - over 500 - including letters, diaries, and official reports from French, British, Swedish, and even Finnish archives. I found the narrative to be far from partisan, and pretty well balanced and neutral that brings a whole new series of campaigns to the readers, offering new perspectives on the Napoleonic Wars.

This account digs deep into the personal and military conflicts between Napoleon and Bernadotte. The latter was clearly his own man. One couldn’t really make up the series of events that led to his election as Crown Prince of Sweden.

The formation of the Northern Coalition is examined with detailed descriptions of the campaigns and battles on land and at sea. Bernadotte and the Swedish forces’ contribution are certainly showcased. Of course these wars are fought pretty much exclusively by the common soldiers, and the author touches upon these human elements well.

The author takes us through the run up to the final years of the reign of of the Swedish King Gustav IV Adolf, his removal, the election of Crown Prince Carl August, his untimely death when he fell from his horse and cracked his skull, and ultimately the election of Bernadotte in his place. The political machinations running throughout this series of events is fascinating, especially the influence of Denmark-Norway in trying to unify the three kingdoms under one ruler which came to naught of course.

Once we have Bernadotte at the helm, there are detailed examinations of the 1810-1812 Anglo-Swedish War, the campaign of 1812 and the many battles during the spring and summer campaigns of 1813 in Germany, concluding with the Leipzig campaign.

The book contains a staggering 110 contemporary black and white images and 40 useful maps to help navigate the reader through the narrative. The appendices are particularly useful as they include a variety of detailed orders of battle, from operations in Swedish Pomerania in 1812 and the various stages of the campaign of 1813. The orders of battle covering operations against Denmark and the campaign in Norway are something I have never seen before and opens up all sorts of wargaming possibilities, even more so when one factors in the often overlooked contribution of the British on land and sea between 1810 and 1814.

I have to say that The Northern Coalition Against Napoleon is a must-read for enthusiasts of North European military history and the Napoleonic Wars. As someone with a significant interest in the Swedish army during the Napoleonic Wars the focus on Sweden is most welcome, with, to me at least, much new information. The writing style and thorough research make this book not just informative but enjoyable, offering as it does a fresh perspective on a key period in history.

ISBN 978-1-804517-09-3 487 pages. Paperback


Next up is the latest Quintin Barry book covering the Republican phase of the Franco-Prussian War.

The Campaign on the Loire’ by Quintin Barry is No. 49 in Helion’s ‘from Reason to Revolution 1721-1815’ series. After the author’s earlier and excellent four volumes on the Imperial stage of the war I was really looking forward to reading it. The book is a meticulously researched account of the military operations along the Loire River during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871. Barry's expertise in military history is again apparent as he delves into the intricacies of this lesser-known campaign, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the strategies, battles, and key figures involved.

For me, perhaps the standout feature of this book (one of many) is Barry's ability to present the complexities of military maneouvers in an easy-to-follow manner, and he is adept in balancing detailed battle descriptions with broader strategic analyses, allowing readers, me included , to grasp both the immediate actions on the ground and their larger implications within the overarching context of the war. By doing so he ensures that both military enthusiasts and general readers can appreciate the narrative without feeling overwhelmed.

As ever I am always drawn to the human side of conflict and he excels in bringing to life the personalities of the commanders and soldiers on both sides of the conflict. He introduces vivid anecdotes and well-chosen quotations, in doing so humanising the historical figures, and providing insight into their motivations, challenges, and decisions. I like this approach as it adds depth to the military history, making it not just a study of tactics and outcomes but also a reflection on leadership and the human aspects of the conflict.

The book contains 15 detailed colour maps and 71 black and white illustrations that complement the text, and allow readers to follow the movements discussed and appreciate the terrain being fought over.

In summary, ‘The Campaign on the Loire’ is a tremendous piece of work that sheds much needed light on a key yet often overlooked aspect of the Franco-Prussian War. Quintin Barry's thorough research, engaging narrative style, and insightful analysis make this book a valuable addition to the library of anyone interested in military history or the complexities of nineteenth century European conflicts. I for one am looking forward in hope the Mr Barry will continue his examination of the Franco-Prussian War and the ‘Republican’ phase.

ISBN 978-1-804517-82-6 Hardback 268 pages

Happy New Year

Many of my friends, my step kids and extended family in Bangalore, Mumbai and Poona are Parsi, and today is their new year, so Nauraz Mubarak to everyone. They are a shrinking community not just in India but worldwide, which is sad. Read about possibly the world’s oldest religion here. I find it fascinating. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zoroastrianism

 

Perry Bavarians 1866-71

 

A box of the new Bavarians arrived yesterday. I shall be assembling them with the peaked forage cap as they are intended for use in the 1866 campaign; I already have a division of 1870 Bavarians in helmets plus supports.

Of course I still haven’t stuck together the plastic Prussians from a couple of years ago, or the plastic French! 

The Bavarians do look rather nice but they are at the back of the queue at the moment.

Pavia Refight - well, everyone else has done it! ……or almost.

Somewhat delayed but better late than never, we were planning to game the battle of Pavia on Saturday using the scenario from the soon-to-be released book from Helion. 

I actually struggled to field the right number of miniatures and it seems I am sadly lacking in Landsknechts; indeed I had to draft in some Swiss to take their place. (Note to self: quick order to Warlord for their Landsknecht army deal which should be enough).

The view from the walls of Pavia. Katherine Spawtza asleep.

The rearmost French camp, close to the siege lines. A large body of Swiss getting ready.

Trouble in the streets of Pavia.

Jamming on the rooftops 

French camp again.

More Swiss much closer to the Imperialist army.

King Francis and his gendarmes muster by the other French encampment.

The gendarmes, supported by the Black Band and some French pikemen and crossbowmen.

Imperial light cavalry and men-at-arms.

The Mirabello Tower and massed elite Spanish and Neapolitan arquebusiers. Behind them are four landsknecht pike blocks (although I’ve had to substitute some of them with Swiss as I don’t have enough landsknechts, something I never thought would say!)

Sadly events overtook me as my wife is not well again and we have some serious legal stuff to sort through in advance of a meeting with the CEO of the hospital that nearly killed her in 2022. It has taken two superficial investigations, the involvement of the Ombudsman and the Care Quality Commission to get to where we are now. 

I will leave the game set up and will see about playing it  at a later date. I might even have the extra landsknechts done by then!