I am not into Victorian wargaming, having always felt a bit sorry for the poor old natives doing their best to protect their homes and families from the greedy British Raj. Now my sympathies are with the British soldier, the PBI (Poor Bloody Infantry), existing in those times. Anyone who has spent time in a barrack room will instantly relate with this first novel by Don and for those who haven't then it will be opening a new, enlightening door on the world of the military.

The spider I lived in in Aldershot had 18 men in it with a cubicle for a Corporal at the end of the room and the only differences in the book is that it is a Sergeant who warrants the privacy and it is set in India. This is a story about the men, their personal stories, their existence, their fears, ambitions, comradeship and the hidden truths behind the conquest and control of India.

The plot unwinds as each of the men of No 3 Section, 5th Sub-Section relates a story of their past. This takes us from the young drunk farm lads accepting the Queen's Shilling in the Home Countries to the feel of Confederate Army on its march to Appomattox, an insight into fighting against Pathan hillsmen to the Regiment on parade to witness Punishment; be it a flogging or an execution.

There is a reality to the tales that are basic, brutal, sad, exciting but overall they are believable. The highest ranked character is Sergeant Oakley with all the main characters being the men and boy of the sub section. Don's description of Arms and Foot drill is very accurate and for those not familiar with it I would advise a closer look at the Trooping of the Colour next time.

It is believable that the interactions within the sub section could have taken place within any group of warriors throughout history. This is not a book that will be welcomed by some in that, I believe, it accurately relates the relationships between the soldiers and the native population. However, the racism is an important aspect of the British Raj in India which is often whitewashed over and Don describes it in a factual and enlightening manner. Within the subsection there is a religious divide as well as a cultural one, which flows through the story and builds up the tension. He also manages to achieve an insight not only into India in 1886 but also Britain, where classism replaces racism in a very positive way.

The question is where to stop this review? The answer is here! It is a great read for anyone interested in soldiering and military history, plus if you are into wargaming the NW Frontier then this is a must. There is a wealth of research and experience in this novel and I hope to see a sequel soon. To Don: It's about time the 5th Sub Section got off their pits and got some real soldiering done. Congratulations on your first novel. A right ripping yarn!

REDCOATS FOR THE RAJ (ISBN 0 9526861 0 4) at £15.99. Only available from Valda Publishing, 4 Abbey Walk, Church St, Romsey, Hants, SO51 8BU. Tel/Fax: 01794-522202.