Bayonet to Barrage

STEPHEN MANNINNG

Here is an example of how to make a potentially stuffy technical exercise come alive. It’s the story of firearms and artillery on the Victorian battlefield, from India to the Crimea. It describes the advances in weaponry but then puts it into context with stories of the battles they were used in and quotes from the men who wielded them. It’s both a history of firearms and also an informal guide to British adventures overseas. A small glossy page section of photos adds to the interest.

• Pen and Sword • ISBN 978-1-5267-7721-8 • 232 pages • Hardback • £25