Saddle up and charge into the exhilarating world of the Napoleonic Horseman series, where the thunder of hooves and the clash of sabers bring history to life! Penned by Griff Hosker, this historical fiction saga follows Robbie Macgregor, a Franco-Scot navigating the chaos of the French Revolution and Napoleon’s meteoric rise. With a blend of heart-pounding action, rich historical detail, and personal drama, it’s a must-read for fans of epic adventures.
Robbie’s journey from an outcast to a skilled cavalryman and spy offers a front-row seat to Europe’s most turbulent era. Whether you’re a history buff or just love a good tale of heroism, this series delivers a thrilling ride through a world of loyalty, betrayal, and battlefield glory.
How Napoleonic Horseman Began
Griff Hosker, a former English teacher turned prolific author, launched the Napoleonic Horseman series in 2013. After decades of writing plays and musicals, Hosker found himself with time to explore his passion for history. Inspired by authors like Bernard Cornwell and C.S. Forester, he crafted a saga rooted in the Napoleonic Wars, focusing on a unique protagonist whose dual heritage mirrors the era’s divided loyalties. His meticulous research and love for historical accuracy shaped a series that feels both authentic and cinematic.
The Heart of Napoleonic Horseman
The series spans ten books, each plunging readers into pivotal moments of the Napoleonic era. Chasseur à Cheval (2013) introduces Robbie Macgregor, a young man forced into the French army to escape the guillotine. His adventures take him from the icy Texel to the sun-scorched conquest of Malta, catching Napoleon’s eye. In Napoleon’s Guard (2013), Robbie becomes a spy, entangled in the Egyptian campaign, facing enemies on all sides. British Light Dragoon (2014) sees him as a captain in the 11th Light Dragoons, battling prejudice and French invaders in Hanover. The series culminates with Waterloo (2021), a fast-paced finale tracing Napoleon’s escape from Elba to his final exile.
Themes of identity, loyalty, and resilience weave through the series, with Robbie’s mixed heritage adding depth to his struggles. Hosker’s style is brisk and action-packed, balancing gritty battle scenes with personal stakes. The vivid European settings—from Italy’s rugged terrain to Spain’s war-torn fields—immerse readers in an era of upheaval, making history feel alive and immediate.
Why Napoleonic Horseman Resonates
The Napoleonic Horseman series has carved a niche among historical fiction fans for its blend of adventure and authenticity. Readers praise its fast-paced storytelling and well-developed protagonists, with Robbie and his comrade Jean earning comparisons to Sharpe from Bernard Cornwell’s series. Though some note minor historical inaccuracies or typos, the series’ immersive quality and Hosker’s passion for the period keep fans hooked. Its exploration of a lesser-known perspective—through a Franco-Scot serving both sides of the conflict—adds a fresh angle to the genre, appealing to those craving unique historical narratives.
The series’ loyal following, evident in glowing Amazon and Goodreads reviews, underscores its lasting appeal. It’s a testament to Hosker’s ability to make history accessible and thrilling, inviting readers to explore a complex era through one man’s extraordinary journey.
- Publication Years: 2013–2021
- Number of Books: 10
- Genre: Historical Fiction
- Setting: Europe, 1780–1815
Ready to gallop into a world of espionage, cavalry charges, and Napoleonic intrigue? Grab Chasseur à Cheval and dive into the Napoleonic Horseman’s thrilling saga today!