Napoleonic War Books in Order
Follow the Napoleonic War series by Adrian Goldsworthy, with the novels in order, brief plot summaries, series background and clear suggestions on the best place to begin.
Last updated: December 25, 2025
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Publication Order
6 books
Whose Business is to Die
by Adrian Goldsworthy
2015
In 1811, Lieutenant Hamish Williams and the 106th Foot join Wellington's offensive after the hard-fought defence of Portugal. Chasing redemption and promotion, Williams marches toward the brutal battle of Albuera, where exhausted regiments are shattered and survival is as uncertain as glory.
Run Them Ashore
by Adrian Goldsworthy
2014
It's autumn 1810 and Spain seems close to defeat when the 106th Foot are sent behind enemy lines near Cádiz. Fighting alongside Spanish guerrillas, Williams discovers that betrayal within his own side may be deadlier than French musket fire or cavalry charges.
All in Scarlet Uniform
by Adrian Goldsworthy
2013
Captain Billy Pringle and his comrades of the 106th Foot head to Spain in 1809, expecting an easy posting training local troops. Instead they find themselves besieged in Ciudad Rodrigo, facing Marshal Ney's veterans and a vengeful enemy officer with unfinished business.
Send Me Safely Back Again
by Adrian Goldsworthy
2012
After the retreat to Corunna, the 106th Foot return to Spain as Britain tries to regain the initiative. While the regiment fights at Medellín and Talavera, Hanley is drawn into perilous intelligence work and Williams hunts the mysterious 'Heroine of Saragossa' amid plots and revenge.
Beat the Drums Slowly
by Adrian Goldsworthy
2011
Continuing the story of the 106th Foot, this novel follows the disastrous winter retreat to Corunna. Newly promoted Hamish Williams is cut off with Jane MacAndrews and a handful of stragglers, forced to outpace French cavalry and the weather while guarding an unexpected infant.
True Soldier Gentlemen
by Adrian Goldsworthy
2008
In 1808, Hamish Williams joins the fictional 106th Regiment of Foot as a gentleman volunteer, serving in the ranks but dining with officers. As the regiment embarks for Portugal, he gets a harsh education in class prejudice, battlefield chaos and the realities of the Peninsular War.
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