Napoleon's British visitors and captives, 1801-1815

A vivid portrait unfolds of the many British men and women who found themselves in France between 1801 and 1815. The author brings together diplomats, MPs, soldiers, artists, scientists and even ordinary travelers, showing how each encountered the bustling streets of Paris, the allure of its salons, and the imposing presence of Napoleon himself. Their varied motives—political, commercial, intellectual or simply curiosity—create a kaleidoscopic view of a nation at the height of its empire.

The narrative then turns to those who were caught in the darker side of the era: the captives held at Verdun and other prisons. Through letters, memoirs and official reports, the book reveals the hardships of detention, daring escapes, and the occasional leniency granted by the French authorities. These personal stories illuminate a world where international rivalry and personal ambition collided, offering listeners a nuanced glimpse into life on both sides of the conflict.