The Lone Warrior
Bombay, 1857. Jack Lark, honourably discharged from the British Army, helps a young woman, Amira, to escape from a gaming house. He promises to take her home to Delhi before taking ship to England. They arrive just as the Indian Mutiny, in all its horror, explodes across the country. Escaping the carnage, they find relative safety with a military column tasked with retaking the city – Jack finds himself back in uniform in a brutal and bloody war against a brave and determined enemy.
The book races along with the speed of a bullet fired from an Enfield rifle. The action scenes are realistic and exciting without being overly graphic. Although Jack and Amira are fictional, they are supported by actual historical figures whose roles and careers are discussed at the end of the novel. There is a comprehensive glossary of Indian terminology, which I found invaluable and referred to frequently, as the book is full of Indian words which contribute towards the enjoyment of a taut, well-written historical novel. This is the fourth book in the series, but there is sufficient back story to fill in any gaps. Fans of Sharpe will find this a treat. I’m going to read the rest of the series! Recommended.
