ePub KINCAID: Adventures in the Rifle Brigade by Captain Kincaid in History

Review

29 of 29 people found the following review helpful. Sparkles with verve and witBy A. WoodleyThis man is irrepresible. Another biography you have to thank the publishers for realising it was worth reprinting.There has been a lot of interest recently in the Peninsular War - and it seems the laconic and witty officers of the 95th (later the Rifle Bridgade) were amongst the best in retelling their experiences. Perhaps it was that they were a different breed of officer - the 95th starting off as an experimental 'light' regiment; a corps established as skirmishers. They didn't fight in line; column and square and so didn't need to spend the hours on the drilling square. Instead they were encouraged to think for themselves and trained to take advantage of every piece of ground for harrassing the enemy.And for light and witty reflections on Peninsular life; Kincaid is the master. He has a marvellous line in self-deprecating wit that you just can't help liking. For all its humour it is nor short on detail though and it is easy to take your mind back to life as they must have experienced it - at war in a foreign country 200 years ago.A must buy!1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Worth the 30 year wait to read it!By LinnyJI was so thrilled to find this book on - I never thought I would ever get to read it. It's been at least 30 years that I have been looking for a copy! I first came across the author; John Kincaid as a character in a book about his wartime friend; Major Harry Smith. As this book was a novel; I did not at once realize that Kincaid was a real person; until I read the bibliography. But as his book was published in the early 19th century; I'd no expectation of ever being able to find it. He turned up again in another book about Maj. Smith and again was referenced at the end.The book is wonderful and well worth the wait. For anyone who is interested in the Peninsular War - the war the British fought against Napoleon across Europe (the Peninsular part referring to the long campaigns in Spain) reading this book is like stepping back in time. It is not meant to tell long and probably boring stories of minute details of battles; but more of Kincaid's life in the Rifle Brigade. Of course he has told stories which are amusing and entertaining; although more serious events are naturally touched upon.I was surprised how contemporary it reads - if you are familiar with English of that period and the subject in general; you will have no difficulty with this book.An enjoyable memoir; I highly recommend it!0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A Fabulous Memoir and a Real Find!By FantasymanThis is what a memoir should be. Takes you on the march; in the field; and into battle. Two centuries have passed since the events described transpired; yet; the narrative seems as fresh as if it were written yesterday. Available for free on Kindle; this is a must read for anyone that wants to understand the experiences of a solder of the Napoleonic wars.