Brutal Valour: The Tragedy of Isandlwana

The Anglo-Zulu War, Book 1

By: James Mace

Narrated by: Jonathan Waters

It is December 1878, and war looms on the horizon in South Africa. British high commissioner Sir Henry Bartle-Frere seeks to dismantle the powerful neighboring kingdom of the Zulus and uses an incursion along the disputed border as his justification for war. He issues an impossible ultimatum to the Zulu king, Cetshwayo, demanding he disband his armies and pay massive reparations. With a heavy heart, the king prepares his nation for war against their former allies.

Leading the invasion is Lieutenant General Sir Frederic Thesiger, Baron Chelmsford, a highly experienced officer fresh off a decisive triumph over the neighboring Xhosa tribes. He and Frere are convinced that a quick victory over the Zulus will negate any repercussions from the home government for launching what is, in essence, an illegal war.

Recently arrived to South Africa are newly recruited privates Arthur Wilkinson and Richard Lowe, members of C Company, 1/24th Regiment of Foot under the venerable Captain Reginald Younghusband. Eager for adventure, they are prepared to do their duty both for the empire and for their friends.

As Frere's ultimatum expires, the army of British redcoats and allied African auxiliaries crosses the uMzinyathi River at Rorke's Drift into Zululand. Ten days later the British and Zulus will meet their destiny at the base of a mountain called Isandlwana.

©2016 James M. Mace (P)2017 James M. Mace

amazing

I have listened to this book four times so far and I love it

The courage of both armies

Both armies were courageous. Unfortunately for the British, they completely underestimated the Zulu army. I did find it difficult to follow all the different characters.

Loved it

Brutal Valour: The Battle of Isandlwana.
Superb storytelling. The book blends a historical event and a fictional dialogue.
I can't recommend this book highly enough. I couldn't put it down.
I received a free copy of this audio book at my own request and voluntarily left this honest review.

Kindle version has photos

You might want to spend $5 to purchase the Kindle version to accompany the audiobook. Throughout the book, photos of the actual men and units from both sides are included.

Truth in Fiction?

So believable that one might think the dialogue was from the mouths of those soldiers and officers of the Queens army. The vast research which must’ve taken course by Mace is overwhelming to consider. However, all accounts of this greatest defeat in the Victorian army, which I have studied prove up Mace’s outstanding representation.