A Little Light Reading

I've always loved reading books for as long as I can remember, so it comes as no surprise to my family that for presents, I invariably turn to books as my first choice. I'm also at that age when really I have everything that I need and my lead mountain is already something that could appear on Ordnance Survey maps! 

So I thought I share some of the latest books that have been added to my to read pile, most are presents, but some came via an amazon voucher for some research work I did or simply because I wanted them and they were superb value.

Earlier in the year I bought 'Beneath the Lily Banner, the War of the Three Kings' by Barry Hilton for use with my League of Augsburg figures, that are sadly still in their bags. Not knowing much about the period, especially the war in Ireland, this book stood out as the perfect introduction to the conflict. So far it has been a fascinating read and I've been struck by how small many of the engagements were, with 20 infantry here, 30 dragoons there; perfect for some 'The Pikemen's Lament' sized games.

Apart from the obligatory history at school, the Russian Revolution is something that I only the basics of, augmented by the excellent Osprey books. This is a real weighty tome and will take quite some time to read, but he's a great writer and I'm sure I'll enjoy it and certainly be more knowledgeable by the end.

Over the past few years, I've taken a real interest in the Sicily campaign as it has so much to offer the wargamer. This book has been on my list for sometime and I've enjoyed the author's other works. Not sure when this will get read, but it must be near the top to be honest.

Having read some excellent ACW books by Stephen W Sears and 'Battle Cry of Freedom' by McPherson last year, I'm keen to broaden my knowledge of this conflict that I'm growing to love. So this book by Paddy Griffith has become a must have for my library. I'm really looking forward to what he reveals about the conflict.

Max Hastings is one of my favourite authors. I know not all people like him, saying he doesn't bring original research to the table, but by God he tells a good story and keeps you firmly interested from the first page. I saw this book reviewed on the Balkan Gamers Blog and again, the whole 'Secret War' is barely known by myself other than the oft spoken of Enigma machine, Bletchley Park etc. I'm certainly going to learn an awful lot I'm sure.

The War of the Roses. Well apart from the bare basics, I know very, very little. I'm hoping this will help me get to grips with all the toing and froing that went on. I'm also hoping it will give me some ideas for my ImagiNations wargames armies for the medieval period.

At only £5, this was too good to pass over on Amazon. A cursory glance has piqued my interest and Graham always has something of interest to offer in his rules. Whilst not solo friendly, I'm sure I can make them work. Time to dig out my wooden blocks and gridded board to give them a try.

Some of the prices for certain Osprey books are a tad crazy, but this came via the amazon voucher and wasn't too badly priced. The last book to complete my Russian Civil war collection, for now at least. If 'Trebian' publishes his work in progress RCW rules, then I'm sure this will get referred to a lot. In the meantime, a quick flick through will have to suffice.

Rather like Sicily 1943, the Balkans 1940 - '41 has become an area of interest to me over the years. There aren't that many English language sources for the wargamer or general historian, so this second book was eagerly snapped up as a 'surprise' birthday present.

Last but by no means least is this great Operation Sealion book, put together and published by John Curry, who lives not too far from me. I would dare to say a 'must have' for wargamers that fancy trying out this eternally fascinating (for the British it seems) 'what if?' This is a book that will be referred to many times in the future I'm sure and the rules contained therein, could easily be tweaked for other seaborne invasions, with a bit of thought. Sicily 1943 anyone?

I hope some of the books might have piqued your interest and as is obvious, they all did mine. Now as with so many things, finding time to read them is the issue. At least at this time of year, with little to do in the garden and variable weather, I try to sit down for half an hour or so each morning to read a chapter or two. Not a bad way to start the day.

On other matters, I've painted up some more cavalry for my mdf 'Wooden Top Wars' armies and have a scenario already prepped and ready to go over the weekend. I plan to try the same scenario with a variety of rulesets, subject to being allowed to leave the game set up on the dining table. Oh the travails of being a wargamer!

So until next time, stay safe and keep healthy.