The Spanish Ulcer: A History of the Peninsular War by David Gates

'The Spanish Ulcer' is a thrilling novel that delves into the complexities of war and the human spirit. Set during the tumultuous Spanish Civil War, the story follows a group of individuals whose lives become intertwined in a web of espionage and betrayal. The narrative is rich with historical detail, offering a vivid portrayal of the era and its impact on those caught in the crossfire. /n/n As the characters navigate treacherous terrain and confront their own moral dilemmas, the novel explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the cost of war. With its fast-paced plot and compelling characters, 'The Spanish Ulcer' is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and adventure.

Reviews

Napoleonic Wargaming Blog · 2011-02-07

comprehensive 4.50

The book is praised for its comprehensive coverage and readability, making it a great starting point for understanding the Peninsular War. It is noted for its excellent orders of battle and detailed analysis.

The reviewer finds the book to be a surprisingly comprehensive history of the Peninsular War, spanning 469 pages. They appreciate its readability and the inclusion of excellent orders of battle, which add depth to the narrative. The book is seen as a valuable resource for those interested in the war, offering a detailed and engaging account of the events. The reviewer also notes that the book provides a relatively open-minded view of Wellington, highlighting both his strengths and flaws.

Quick quotes

It is a surprisingly comprehensive history of the war in 469 pages.

It is very easy to read, and has excellent orders of battle.

The text is clearly written and provides a relatively open-minded view of Wellington.

The New York Times · 1986-06-29

comprehensive 4.00

The book provides a comprehensive and rounded perspective on the Peninsular War, highlighting its brutality and complexity. It is praised for its readability and thorough analysis.

The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to put the Peninsular War into perspective, noting its brutal and complex nature. They highlight the author's skill in constructing a readable account of the campaign, making it accessible to a wide audience. The book is seen as a valuable resource for understanding the war's impact and significance, offering a detailed and nuanced view of the events.

Quick quotes

David Gates, a British historian, has put the war in perspective in 'The Spanish Ulcer,' as Napoleon called the war.

This is a rounded, readable account of the campaign.

The book provides a comprehensive and nuanced view of the Peninsular War.

Goodreads · 1986-01-01

harrowing 4.25

The book is highly readable and provides a harrowing account of the Peninsular War, highlighting its brutality and the to-ing and fro-ing of international armies. It is praised for its detailed and engaging narrative.

The reviewer describes the book as a highly readable and harrowing account of six years of brutal and unforgiving warfare. They appreciate the detailed narrative, which brings to life the complexities and brutality of the Peninsular War. The book is seen as a valuable resource for those interested in military history, offering a comprehensive and engaging account of the events. The reviewer also notes the book's ability to provide a relatively open-minded view of key figures like Wellington, highlighting both their strengths and flaws.

Quick quotes

It is a highly readable and harrowing account of six years of brutal and unforgiving warfare.

The to-ing and fro-ing of international armies and forces of men is vividly depicted.

The book provides a relatively open-minded view of Wellington, showing both his strengths and flaws.

Appears in Lists

The Best Books About Napoleon Bonaparte And The Napoleonic Wars