
audiobook
by G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
Set amid the turmoil of the Franco‑Prussian War, this vivid tale follows a band of youthful volunteers—known as franc‑tireurs—who throw themselves into the chaos of battle. From the bustling market squares of Dijon to the shadowed forests of the Vosges, the story captures the raw excitement and fear that grips a nation on the brink of conflict. Readers hear the clatter of marching gendarmes, the frantic whispers of townsfolk, and the daring decisions of boys barely out of childhood as they answer the call to defend their homeland.
Through a blend of personal recollection and historical detail, the narrative conveys the harsh realities faced by these irregular fighters: secret missions, perilous escapes, and moments of unexpected bravery. While the young volunteers often stumble under poor leadership, flashes of heroism emerge, offering a glimpse into the courage and camaraderie that defined their fleeting yet unforgettable wartime experience.
Language
en
Duration
~9 hours (570K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2007-07-13
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1832–1902
Best known for fast-moving historical adventures, this prolific Victorian writer turned real wars, distant places, and imperial history into stories that thrilled generations of young readers. Before becoming a hugely popular novelist, he worked as a journalist and war correspondent, giving his fiction a strong sense of action and detail.
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