A Regimental Affair Book

Allan Mallinson is probably the most accomplished practitioner of the historical adventure series today and his series featuring Captain Matthew Hervey of the Light Dragoons has already established a devoted following that grows with each novel. A Regimental Affair is not only the equal of its distinguished predecessors, the acclaimed A Close Run Thing and The Nizam's Daughters, but in it Mallinson even more effortlessly layers a complex new strata of characterisation and historical detail. Although the pacing is initially steadier and less exhilarating, this is a strategy on the author's part that really pays off as the final confrontation in the novel approaches. It's 1817, and Matthew Hervey has returned to find England as turbulent as the India he has just left. The country is on the verge of revolution, and the lack of any policing means that the army is obliged to keep order. The cavalry are at the forefront in this arena, and Hervey's life is further complicated by his pending nuptials to Lady Henrietta Lindsay. The crux of the novel, though, is his conflict with the new commanding officer of the Sixth, who has a massive hatred of him (as well as nurturing a sinister secret). Mallinson skilfully orchestrates the clash between the two men towards a climax that combines the epic and the personal. Many writers have tackled the novel of historical warfare, but few have imbued it with the literate and stylistic elegance that Mallinson possesses; this is a series that goes from strength to strength. The downpour was so heavy that Hervey's reins kept slipping through his fingers, and he had to wedge his insteps in firmly to save losing his stirrups. Driven almost horizontal by the wind, the rain lashed his face viciously, and no matter how he bent his head, water found its way down his neck and inside his tunic and shirt --Barry ForshawRead More