I enjoyed learning about Bonnie Prince Charlie. But it's also a shame he fled and left his followers to take all the blame.

What a story! Dr Arran Johnston really brings events and people to life and it’s a while since I’ve enjoyed a non fiction title so much. I’m fascinated by the machinations of the monarchy; motivated largely by greed and a lust fir power, over centuries each royal ‘house’ has contrived to maintain its place. The current so called Windsors are no exception, but as a reader whose DNA is over 50% Scottish Highlander, I find the Jacobite period particularly fascinating.

There are numerous books on the subject; many have a rather heavy academic feel or are written with military tactics in mind. I’m more interested in the people and personalities. Who were these men ( usually) who influenced and sometimes changed history.? What were their motivations and why did they fail or succeed?

This is a lively and engaging read and what really strikes home is that for the first time in some 50 years of reading about the subject, I’ve gained a real feel for the man. He’s more than the myth and legend of folklore and song; he’s became a fully dimensional individual and one whose energy, strengths and weaknesses really come alive. Dr Johnston is clearly an authority on the Jacobites and the way in which he presents account of the battles makes this accessible and enjoyable reading. It feels honest and I can’t recommend this title enough.

Bonnie Prince Charlie has intrigued me ever since I watched the film with David Niven, and learned about Flora MacDonald. There was much more to this Jacobite prince than the aura of romance which surrounds him, however. Unfortunately, Prince Charles's reputation has been ravaged, both on and off the field, because of the terrible defeat at Culloden, his actions as a commander and his alcoholism later in life.

The young prince arguably made great achievenments in the first place. In only two months, the 25-year old 'raised the standard, assembled an army, secured the Scottish capital and triumphed in his first pitched battle'. Other victories were to come, but, ultimately, it was all too difficult. Dr Arran Johnston restores the Prince's reputation to a large extent, however. It would probably have been impossible for anyone to defeat the English in his circumstances. Lack of French assistance, factional fighting, not enough funds, dreadful weather - the brave young Prince faced them all. He seems to have been an excellent commander who organised councils, listened to all sides and gained the admiration of his men.

This book also reads like a novel as we follow the troubled campaign. Itt is highly recommended.

I received this free ebook from NetGalley
EDITION Hardcover
ISBN 9781399061148
PRICE

There's a lot of novels about the Rising and Bonnie Prince Charlie, not a lot of history books that talks about facts and help to understand what happened.
This is a good book if you like history and want to start to learn about this historical character
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

This narrative depicts Bonnie Prince Charlie through the eyes of his followers during the ill-fated 1745 Jacobite uprising. It traces his journey through pivotal battles, revealing a capable yet flawed leader stretched beyond his abilities. Spotlighting his relationships and conflicts, the book offers a humanizing portrait of the young prince at the center of this seminal moment in British history.

Researchers and military history buffs will love this meticulously researched and detailed book. It focuses on facts more than storytelling.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.