Flashman on the March by George Macdonald Fraser - 2005

London: Harper Collins Publishers, 2005. First Edition, 750g packed for posting, 317pp of text, then biblio info, map/illust endpapers. 8vo. original burgundy textured paper boards, gilt titling on spine, vg dustwrapper (upper right corners a little bumped. dj unclipped. Author signature on a paste-in on the title page (sticker COA on cover), signature alone, no inscription. The book's plot >>> A reluctant military hero, Flashman plays a key part in most of the defining military campaigns of the 19th century, despite trying his utmost to escape them all. Many have marvelled at General Napier's daring 1868 expedition through the treacherous peaks and bottomless chasms of Abyssinia to rescue a small group of British citizens held captive by the mad tyrant Emperor Theodore. But the vital role of Sir Harry Flashman, V.C., in the success of this campaign has hitherto gone unrecorded. Flashman's undeserved reputation for heroism renders him the British Army's candidate of choice when it comes to skulking behind enemy lines in Ali Baba attire. After all, who but the great amorist could contemplate navigating a land populated by hostile tribes and the loveliest (and most savage) women in Africa, from leather-clad nymphs with a penchant for torture to a voluptuous barbarian queen with a reputation for throwing disobliging guests to her pet lions?. Signed by Author. Hardcover. Excellent/Very Good/Excellent/very Good. 24 Cm.