What do you think?
Rate this book
The Soldier Chronicles #3
Blood on the Snow
Winter, 1794, Flanders, and the British are retreating.
Faced by appalling weather and pursued by an overwhelming enemy, the very survival of the British Army is at stake.
With little supplies and ammunition, Lieutenant Jack Hallam of the 28th Regiment must prove himself by leading his company through the full horrors of the withdrawal, where morale is desperately low, and where looting and ill-discipline are rife.
The men must endure freezing temperatures, disease and battle if they wish to see home again, and if any officer can accomplish this feat, then that man is Jack Hallam.
Blood on the Snow is a gripping tale of honour, bravery and self-sacrifice in the darkest of times.
Fight not for glory, but to survive.
Faced by appalling weather and pursued by an overwhelming enemy, the very survival of the British Army is at stake.
With little supplies and ammunition, Lieutenant Jack Hallam of the 28th Regiment must prove himself by leading his company through the full horrors of the withdrawal, where morale is desperately low, and where looting and ill-discipline are rife.
The men must endure freezing temperatures, disease and battle if they wish to see home again, and if any officer can accomplish this feat, then that man is Jack Hallam.
Blood on the Snow is a gripping tale of honour, bravery and self-sacrifice in the darkest of times.
Fight not for glory, but to survive.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
90 pages, Paperback
First published September 11, 2014
About the author
David Cook
12 books89 followersDavid has been interested in history since his school days, and developed a love for the Napoleonic Wars' era from his father, who painted and amassed a model army of the Battle of Waterloo. From there, David became fascinated with the English Civil Wars, the American Civil War, the Wars of the Roses and English medieval history, particularly the legend of Robin Hood.
David lives outside Winchester on the edge of the South Downs National Park.
David lives outside Winchester on the edge of the South Downs National Park.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 27, 2022
Military fiction set amidst the Flanders Campaign
Another fine military fiction tale from David Cook. This one set in the 1790's Flanders Campaign. Great Britain and her allies, Austria, the Dutch, some German states and French royalists believed that the armies of Revolutionary France would be poorly led, poorly trained and easy to brush aside. They were wrong and the campaign was a disaster for the allies.
Mr. Cook has a knack for combat scenes and development of the characters of officers and enlisted men of the British army of the period. The book is fairly short but cost me less than a dollar fifty. A well done entertaining read.
Another fine military fiction tale from David Cook. This one set in the 1790's Flanders Campaign. Great Britain and her allies, Austria, the Dutch, some German states and French royalists believed that the armies of Revolutionary France would be poorly led, poorly trained and easy to brush aside. They were wrong and the campaign was a disaster for the allies.
Mr. Cook has a knack for combat scenes and development of the characters of officers and enlisted men of the British army of the period. The book is fairly short but cost me less than a dollar fifty. A well done entertaining read.
September 13, 2014
The ONLY reason I didn't give this five stars is because, in all the books I've ever read, I reserve a five star Goodreads rating for the classics that I have turned to time and again through the years...those books I have read and re-read. This amounts to about only nine books I've reviewed that have received five stars from me. With that in context, this novella is a fantastic read. I had previously read David Cook’s novella, Liberty or Death, set in Ireland at the end of the eighteenth century. David was kind enough to send me a pre-released copy of his latest novella, Blood On The Snow. Like Liberty or Death, I was pulled immediately into his tale of eighteenth century war. Blood On The Snow takes place before the start of Liberty, during the infamous British Flanders Campaign (1793-1795). The story’s hero is the adroit British officer, Lieutenant Jack Hallam. In Cook’s hands, Hallam is instantly likable. The reader pulls for him from the start, hoping he survives the campaign and makes it back to his new wife in England. Cook keeps the story interesting through the use of history as well as through his creation of a wonderful array of characters. Hallam is confronted not only by the French troops that he has sworn to fight, but also antagonists in the form of French deserters as well as a fellow British officer, Captain Clements. In each situation, Cook’s ability to engage the reader is evident through the use of his talent and skill with words. History is alive in his hands. With his words and characters, we are transported back to the eighteenth century, fighting alongside Hallam and his men. We come to know and care for Private Shawford, Colonel Paget (a true historical figure), and junior officer, Stubbington, as they try their best to meet their duty with courage and perseverance.
With the renewed popularity of the Outlander series of books by Diana Gabaldon and the current Starz’s original television production, the time period in which Cook’s latest novella takes place is sure to intrigue those interested in the eighteenth century. For those like myself who are drawn to history of the twentieth century, it’s worth noting that many of the places that proved pivotal in the Second World War had found their historical importance in earlier battles such as those during The Flanders Campaign. Those readers who have knowledge of WWII will take note that before the ill-fated Market Garden Campaign of 1944, the Waal River, Nijmegan and Arnhem had already made their mark in the world’s history books. Thanks to Cook and others like him who write of earlier time periods, students of history are reminded of this truth.
With Blood On The Snow, David Cook has made his invaluable imprint as a serious and gifted historical writer!
With the renewed popularity of the Outlander series of books by Diana Gabaldon and the current Starz’s original television production, the time period in which Cook’s latest novella takes place is sure to intrigue those interested in the eighteenth century. For those like myself who are drawn to history of the twentieth century, it’s worth noting that many of the places that proved pivotal in the Second World War had found their historical importance in earlier battles such as those during The Flanders Campaign. Those readers who have knowledge of WWII will take note that before the ill-fated Market Garden Campaign of 1944, the Waal River, Nijmegan and Arnhem had already made their mark in the world’s history books. Thanks to Cook and others like him who write of earlier time periods, students of history are reminded of this truth.
With Blood On The Snow, David Cook has made his invaluable imprint as a serious and gifted historical writer!
March 6, 2022
We all ultimately have something in life to live for. Whether it be a loved one at home, or some sort of duty that we are undeniably bound to. Whatever point we may be at in life, if we dig deep enough, we are sure to find that special something which pushes us on to struggle for life in this world. Nowhere is this struggle more evident than on the field of battle. Individuals desperately trying to stay alive so that they can get back to whatever it is in their life which matters the most to them. In Blood on the Snow by author David Cook, we see just such an intense conflict in action. A great read for not only fans of historical fiction, but for anyone who enjoys great writing and a fascinating story!
Essentially, the story follows the trials and tribulations of the main character, Lieutenant Jack Hallam. Set in the midst of the British Flanders Campaign in 1794, Hallam and his unit are up against a mighty French army. This overpowering foe is not the only issue for Hallam however. He also must contend with ruthless French deserters and British superior officers who show their incompetence and pure negligence at every turn. In the middle of the unforgiving brutality of war, Hallam must fight against all these odds which are stacked up so high against him. On the other side of this virtual Hell is his beautiful new wife and potential “happy ever after” life which awaits him if he can manage to return from the front. However, getting there in one piece may be a serious problem. With danger lurking at all sides, will the brave lieutenant make it back to his home safe and sound? Or will he ultimately be another lonely soldier who has fallen on the merciless field of battle.
There can be little doubt that this story has an awful lot going for it. For instance, the plot is gripping and will mesmerize the reader from start to finish. Be forewarned however as it can be graphic. The author does not hold anything back in his description of the horrors of war. All this lends to the feeling of authenticity. The flow from scene to scene is quite smooth as well. I particularly like how well Cook is able to juxtapose the savagery of battle alongside some very touching and tender moments. While a history buff will already know the outcome of this Campaign, the reader in us stays along for the actual storytelling. Captivating from start to finish.
While the plot of Blood on the Snow is top-notch, I find that the characters are what really carry the day. Typically I find that they are rarely fully developed in novellas to my own satisfaction. In this particular piece however that is not the case. As the protagonist, Hallam is developed in the most depth. He is a wholly likeable and memorable individual. The type of person in which heroes are made of. He is backed up by a company of soldiers with their own variety of strengths and flaws. We are able to truly identify with them, which in turn further engages us in the story. Lastly, Captain Clements as the drunken and incompetent leader shows us a whole different side. A totally despicable person with few (if any) redeeming qualities to speak of. He is the antithesis of Hallam and it works extraordinarily well.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I was a little disappointed it ended so soon. I believe there is so much more left to say.
4 out of 5 Bloody stars for this one!
Essentially, the story follows the trials and tribulations of the main character, Lieutenant Jack Hallam. Set in the midst of the British Flanders Campaign in 1794, Hallam and his unit are up against a mighty French army. This overpowering foe is not the only issue for Hallam however. He also must contend with ruthless French deserters and British superior officers who show their incompetence and pure negligence at every turn. In the middle of the unforgiving brutality of war, Hallam must fight against all these odds which are stacked up so high against him. On the other side of this virtual Hell is his beautiful new wife and potential “happy ever after” life which awaits him if he can manage to return from the front. However, getting there in one piece may be a serious problem. With danger lurking at all sides, will the brave lieutenant make it back to his home safe and sound? Or will he ultimately be another lonely soldier who has fallen on the merciless field of battle.
There can be little doubt that this story has an awful lot going for it. For instance, the plot is gripping and will mesmerize the reader from start to finish. Be forewarned however as it can be graphic. The author does not hold anything back in his description of the horrors of war. All this lends to the feeling of authenticity. The flow from scene to scene is quite smooth as well. I particularly like how well Cook is able to juxtapose the savagery of battle alongside some very touching and tender moments. While a history buff will already know the outcome of this Campaign, the reader in us stays along for the actual storytelling. Captivating from start to finish.
While the plot of Blood on the Snow is top-notch, I find that the characters are what really carry the day. Typically I find that they are rarely fully developed in novellas to my own satisfaction. In this particular piece however that is not the case. As the protagonist, Hallam is developed in the most depth. He is a wholly likeable and memorable individual. The type of person in which heroes are made of. He is backed up by a company of soldiers with their own variety of strengths and flaws. We are able to truly identify with them, which in turn further engages us in the story. Lastly, Captain Clements as the drunken and incompetent leader shows us a whole different side. A totally despicable person with few (if any) redeeming qualities to speak of. He is the antithesis of Hallam and it works extraordinarily well.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I was a little disappointed it ended so soon. I believe there is so much more left to say.
4 out of 5 Bloody stars for this one!
September 12, 2014
In my humble opinion, this is the best of the series so far.
Cook throws us into his most vivid and thrilling action-packed story to date where the sound of musket fire, the roar of cannon, and the chill threat of the French Dragoons, brings the harrowing Flanders Campaign to brutal life in an intense battle of survival.
You will root for Lieutenant Jack Hallam all the way.
Cook throws us into his most vivid and thrilling action-packed story to date where the sound of musket fire, the roar of cannon, and the chill threat of the French Dragoons, brings the harrowing Flanders Campaign to brutal life in an intense battle of survival.
You will root for Lieutenant Jack Hallam all the way.
September 12, 2014
I was sent a copy of the novella by the author to review and I have to say I devoured it in one day.
It is winter and the British army is fleeing before a mighty French army across the Netherlands during the campaign of 1794.
The story is told very well and I like the characters. From the noble Lieutenant Hallam who is just trying to get through the war and home in one piece to Captain Clements who is a drunken idiot in charge of the company. Hallam shows his ability, his soft side, gentleness when he finds the frozen body of a girl and her child on the retreat, and yet can fight like a warrior when need's be - we see this when he has to rescue a soldier's wife from a band of merciless brigands - by way of a detour half way throug the story. I liked the camaraderie and the pomposity, indifference and corruption of the officer class with the black humour and cheerfulness and honesty of the lower ranks.
The tension increased with the battle at the end and the ending made me give a hurrah for Hallam - twice in fact as you'll find out.
Of the three stories, I would say this is the best so far. I would rank this one first, Liberty or Death and then Heart of Oak.
A good solid read and David Cook is fast becomming one of my favourite historical authors.
5/5
It is winter and the British army is fleeing before a mighty French army across the Netherlands during the campaign of 1794.
The story is told very well and I like the characters. From the noble Lieutenant Hallam who is just trying to get through the war and home in one piece to Captain Clements who is a drunken idiot in charge of the company. Hallam shows his ability, his soft side, gentleness when he finds the frozen body of a girl and her child on the retreat, and yet can fight like a warrior when need's be - we see this when he has to rescue a soldier's wife from a band of merciless brigands - by way of a detour half way throug the story. I liked the camaraderie and the pomposity, indifference and corruption of the officer class with the black humour and cheerfulness and honesty of the lower ranks.
The tension increased with the battle at the end and the ending made me give a hurrah for Hallam - twice in fact as you'll find out.
Of the three stories, I would say this is the best so far. I would rank this one first, Liberty or Death and then Heart of Oak.
A good solid read and David Cook is fast becomming one of my favourite historical authors.
5/5
November 22, 2014
"Blood on the Snow" by David Cook is a riveting historical novel, well researched, gripping and for this reader, quite an eye opener. The Flanders Campaign of 1794 was something that I had little knowledge of and Cook brought it to life with historical competence and splendid details. The novel comes also with a variety of well chosen characters that felt authentic and made for a fascinating story.
The weather and living conditions, interactions with the locals and the morale and discipline in the regiment are described exellently.
A very recommendable novel and a writer to watch.
The weather and living conditions, interactions with the locals and the morale and discipline in the regiment are described exellently.
A very recommendable novel and a writer to watch.
October 21, 2014
I love history. David Cook made it even more interesting.
October 21, 2014
David Cook writes another great military story that gripped me from page one, and onwards.
Blood on the Snow is the third story of The Soldier Chronicles, by historical author, David Cook.
This time around the story moves from the horror of rebellion-torn Ireland (Liberty or Death) and the frantic battle scenes of French occupied Malta (Heart of Oak) to a story of a British regiment caught up in the retreat during the Flanders Campaign of the late eighteenth century.
Jack Hallam, a young officer, leads his company under the scrutiny of Captain Clements a boorish, bullying drunk. Hallam strives to be a good officer and to look after the men during the harrowing withdrawal (Clements couldn’t care less) where morale is jaded and ill-discipline is rife.
From the tense skirmish as engineers attempt to blow up a bridge to hinder the French vanguard, the hunt for a missing wife taken by deserters and the final battle where starving men loot bodies for food, Blood on the Snow delivers excitement, action and adventure.
David Cook writes with such realism that he is, in my opinion, fast becoming a master of historical storytelling
Blood on the Snow is the third story of The Soldier Chronicles, by historical author, David Cook.
This time around the story moves from the horror of rebellion-torn Ireland (Liberty or Death) and the frantic battle scenes of French occupied Malta (Heart of Oak) to a story of a British regiment caught up in the retreat during the Flanders Campaign of the late eighteenth century.
Jack Hallam, a young officer, leads his company under the scrutiny of Captain Clements a boorish, bullying drunk. Hallam strives to be a good officer and to look after the men during the harrowing withdrawal (Clements couldn’t care less) where morale is jaded and ill-discipline is rife.
From the tense skirmish as engineers attempt to blow up a bridge to hinder the French vanguard, the hunt for a missing wife taken by deserters and the final battle where starving men loot bodies for food, Blood on the Snow delivers excitement, action and adventure.
David Cook writes with such realism that he is, in my opinion, fast becoming a master of historical storytelling
October 23, 2014
This is David Cook's third story and again the narration is quite masterly and well-researched.
The story starts in the Netherlands during the Flanders Campaign of 1793-1795. It is the dead of winter and the British Army is in full retreat. Lieutenant Jack Hallam leads a company of redcoats in their quest to reach the safe ports, whilst being pursued by the French Revolutionary Army. Starving, defeated and thoroughly miserable, the men’s morale is as brittle as old bones, but if one man can get them home then Hallam is the man.
Trudging across the frozen landscape Hallam’s company are nearly overrun by French cavalry, but Hallam saves the day with gallant aplomb. He also leads a group of redcoats in a mission to locate a wife gone missing from the regiment which leads to an exciting confrontation with armed brigands.
The final battle is vividly brought to life. In fact, they are the best battle scenes of any writer I’ve ever read. All Hallam wants to do is reach home and you’ll be hoping that he does.
Blood on the Snow is a very fine book and Cook really makes history come alive.
The story starts in the Netherlands during the Flanders Campaign of 1793-1795. It is the dead of winter and the British Army is in full retreat. Lieutenant Jack Hallam leads a company of redcoats in their quest to reach the safe ports, whilst being pursued by the French Revolutionary Army. Starving, defeated and thoroughly miserable, the men’s morale is as brittle as old bones, but if one man can get them home then Hallam is the man.
Trudging across the frozen landscape Hallam’s company are nearly overrun by French cavalry, but Hallam saves the day with gallant aplomb. He also leads a group of redcoats in a mission to locate a wife gone missing from the regiment which leads to an exciting confrontation with armed brigands.
The final battle is vividly brought to life. In fact, they are the best battle scenes of any writer I’ve ever read. All Hallam wants to do is reach home and you’ll be hoping that he does.
Blood on the Snow is a very fine book and Cook really makes history come alive.
October 26, 2014
David Cook is, in my opinion, one of the best up-and-coming historical authors writing narrative fiction; but based upon real-life historical campaigns currently out there. He pulls no punches in respect to the brutal and often harsh reality of life. The results are authentic and vivid, featuring a cast of flawed characters that readers can identify closely with.
For example - Jack Hallam. Not a cardboard cut-out hero, but a man simply trying to survive and get home to see his wife again. Yes, of course there are snags along the way (skirmishes and battles and sometimes conflict from his own side) but BLOOD ON THE SNOW isn’t about a famous battle, its entire story is a snapshot of what it was like in the ghastly retreat across Holland during a severe winter. I actually had to read up on the campaign because it piqued my interest.
From the very first page BLOOD ON THE SNOW is a terrific page-turner and there's a steadily increasing excitement that leads to an all-stops-out finale. Fantastic!
For example - Jack Hallam. Not a cardboard cut-out hero, but a man simply trying to survive and get home to see his wife again. Yes, of course there are snags along the way (skirmishes and battles and sometimes conflict from his own side) but BLOOD ON THE SNOW isn’t about a famous battle, its entire story is a snapshot of what it was like in the ghastly retreat across Holland during a severe winter. I actually had to read up on the campaign because it piqued my interest.
From the very first page BLOOD ON THE SNOW is a terrific page-turner and there's a steadily increasing excitement that leads to an all-stops-out finale. Fantastic!
December 6, 2014
What a corker of a read!
David Cook has a talent. He has a talent for bringing his characters to life, not just the protagonist but all of them, every single one of the men (and women) who walk through these pages. His heroes are battle-scarred, disfigured and traumatised, but still standing.
This is a tale that captured my imagination so much that I just couldn’t wait to ‘get-back-to-my-book’ whenever I had the chance.
Cook is an extremely accomplished writer and I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
David Cook has a talent. He has a talent for bringing his characters to life, not just the protagonist but all of them, every single one of the men (and women) who walk through these pages. His heroes are battle-scarred, disfigured and traumatised, but still standing.
This is a tale that captured my imagination so much that I just couldn’t wait to ‘get-back-to-my-book’ whenever I had the chance.
Cook is an extremely accomplished writer and I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
Read
December 3, 2014David Cook has the ability to transport you to another time, into other minds, and tell a great tale while doing so. In "Blood on the Snow" it's winter in Flanders, 1784, with the British in full retreat.
The British Army's survival is at stake. Short on supplies and ammunition, Lieutenant Jack Hallam of the 28th Regiment must shepherd his dispirited company through the horrific withdrawal...
Settle back with this book, but make sure you're in a warm place with a hot drink beside you...
The British Army's survival is at stake. Short on supplies and ammunition, Lieutenant Jack Hallam of the 28th Regiment must shepherd his dispirited company through the horrific withdrawal...
Settle back with this book, but make sure you're in a warm place with a hot drink beside you...
November 28, 2014
The tile of this book and the cover grabbed my attention, I'll have to admit. While it is a novella, the writer took full advantage of word count and packed it full of description and great characters. You feel as if you are right there with the characters.
This little one left a lasting impression on me and I will be reading more by David Cook that's for sure!
This little one left a lasting impression on me and I will be reading more by David Cook that's for sure!
October 11, 2014
This is a memorable read! More to come.
October 21, 2014
Great writing with an exciting plot! This book is about the British Army's 28th Regiment.
October 25, 2014
Just loved this historical read with a great story line.
October 10, 2014
Excellent writer.
October 31, 2014
Fantastic read!
November 6, 2014
Action, adventure... A great descriptive tale!
October 12, 2014
Another thrilling historical tale of war, as the hero endures hardship and freezing cold in a struggle to survive. Intrigue and epic battles.
October 10, 2014
Another great story told by an accomplished writer.
October 30, 2014
Have just started this and it's wonderfully entertaining... :)
November 4, 2014
Gripping book. I loved it and will keep watching for more from this author.
November 3, 2014
Talk about being in the trenches! This book puts you there. I loved it.
October 10, 2014
I enjoyed this immensely. Well written and a page turner.
October 10, 2014
Definitely an action packed read. Well done!
November 3, 2014
Fascinating read.
August 4, 2017
good book enjoyed it
May 17, 2016
Another superb novella from David Cook. Almost reads like a ‘disenchantment’ type post World War 1 novel albeit set in the Low Countries during the 1794 Revolutionary Wars. The dismal predicament of a British army cut off from their meagre supply chain , facing the advancing French revolutionary armies in mid winter are certainly conveyed well. Desperation on the increase as they have to march passed clumps of frozen corpses. The sensation of warfare in the ice are drawn out well; soldiers having to carry a pack that hurts their back, trying to boil some water in the snow, maintaining weapons in freezing temperatures, are so thoroughly depicted.
Interesting to see the lives of the camp followers are featured , particularly a tough woman character who can take up firearms when cornered,. The wretched plight of the civilians, distrusted and abused by both sides, emerges. Captain Hallam and a few associates try to keep some sort of ethics and compassion. But there is a great sense that the campaign was pointless. Even beyond the 'here because we're here ' chant of Tommies on the Western Front. The futility is crushing.
The scene of the British soldiers struggling to blow up a bridge to hinder the French dragoons is the only lighter note. Like the obligatory fire in a Medieval novel.
Always admire how David Cook uses fiction to highlight lesser known theatres of war of the Revolutionary/ Napoleonic era. And the result is a merger of great imagination combined with a such an extensive understanding of histor
Interesting to see the lives of the camp followers are featured , particularly a tough woman character who can take up firearms when cornered,. The wretched plight of the civilians, distrusted and abused by both sides, emerges. Captain Hallam and a few associates try to keep some sort of ethics and compassion. But there is a great sense that the campaign was pointless. Even beyond the 'here because we're here ' chant of Tommies on the Western Front. The futility is crushing.
The scene of the British soldiers struggling to blow up a bridge to hinder the French dragoons is the only lighter note. Like the obligatory fire in a Medieval novel.
Always admire how David Cook uses fiction to highlight lesser known theatres of war of the Revolutionary/ Napoleonic era. And the result is a merger of great imagination combined with a such an extensive understanding of histor
November 21, 2015
This is the third novella in the series by David Cook. Well written, good characterizations, well plotted.
The action takes place in Flanders in the very early 1800's. It is one of the coldest winters of memory and the British are getting their asses kicked. Officers were often incompetent as many of them had purchased their commissions and had no military experience, but thought they were infallible as they came from the British upper classes.
I would like to see Mr. Cook take on a full length novel! I enjoy his stories very much.
The action takes place in Flanders in the very early 1800's. It is one of the coldest winters of memory and the British are getting their asses kicked. Officers were often incompetent as many of them had purchased their commissions and had no military experience, but thought they were infallible as they came from the British upper classes.
I would like to see Mr. Cook take on a full length novel! I enjoy his stories very much.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews