Immerse yourself in the exhilarating world of Richard Sharpe, a British soldier navigating the treacherous landscapes of the Napoleonic Wars, in the widely acclaimed Sharpe series by Bernard Cornwell. Known for their vivid detail, historical accuracy, and thrilling narratives, these novels have captivated readers for over three decades.
To fully appreciate the progression of Sharpe’s life and career, it’s essential to read the books in chronological order. In this blog post, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to the Sharpe series, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of this unforgettable saga.
How should you read the Sharpe books in order?
There are two primary ways to read the Sharpe series: in order of publication or in chronological order. Reading the books in order of publication allows you to follow Cornwell’s development as an author while reading them in chronological order provides a more linear narrative of Richard Sharpe’s life and career. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference.
Sharpe Books in Order of Publication:
- Sharpe’s Eagle (1981)
- Sharpe’s Gold (1981)
- Sharpe’s Company (1982)
- Sharpe’s Sword (1983)
- Sharpe’s Enemy (1984)
- Sharpe’s Honour (1985)
- Sharpe’s Regiment (1986)
- Sharpe’s Siege (1987)
- Sharpe’s Rifles (1988)
- Sharpe’s Revenge (1989)
- Sharpe’s Waterloo (1990)
- Sharpe’s Devil (1992)
- Sharpe’s Battle (1995)
- Sharpe’s Tiger (1997)
- Sharpe’s Triumph (1998)
- Sharpe’s Fortress (1999)
- Sharpe’s Trafalgar (2000)
- Sharpe’s Prey (2001)
- Sharpe’s Havoc (2003)
- Sharpe’s Escape (2004)
- Sharpe’s Fury (2006)
- Sharpe’s Assassin (2021)
Sharpe Books in Chronological Order:
- Sharpe’s Tiger (1997)
- Sharpe’s Triumph (1998)
- Sharpe’s Fortress (1999)
- Sharpe’s Trafalgar (2000)
- Sharpe’s Prey (2001)
- Sharpe’s Rifles (1988)
- Sharpe’s Havoc (2003)
- Sharpe’s Eagle (1981)
- Sharpe’s Gold (1981)
- Sharpe’s Escape (2004)
- Sharpe’s Fury (2006)
- Sharpe’s Battle (1995)
- Sharpe’s Company (1982)
- Sharpe’s Sword (1983)
- Sharpe’s Enemy (1984)
- Sharpe’s Honour (1985)
- Sharpe’s Regiment (1986)
- Sharpe’s Siege (1987)
- Sharpe’s Revenge (1989)
- Sharpe’s Waterloo (1990)
- Sharpe’s Devil (1992)
- Sharpe’s Assassin (2021)
Is there a Sharpe adaptation?
Yes, there is a television adaptation of the Sharpe series, starring Sean Bean as Richard Sharpe. The British TV series, which aired from 1993 to 2008, consists of 16 episodes. Although the adaptation does not cover all the books, it captures the spirit of the series and is well-loved by fans.
About Bernard Cornwell:
Bernard Cornwell is an accomplished British author known for his historical fiction novels. Born in London in 1944, he began his writing career in the 1980s and has since published over 60 novels. In addition to the Sharpe series, Cornwell is the author of the Saxon Stories, Warlord Chronicles, and the Grail Quest series.
Quick Fact: With his knack for bringing history to life through gripping narratives and richly drawn characters, Cornwell has become a mainstay in the world of historical fiction.
Give a Summary of the Sharpe Books in Order
1. Sharpe’s Tiger (1997)
Richard Sharpe, a young private in the British army, finds himself embroiled in the Siege of Seringapatam, in 1799. As he battles the ferocious Tippoo Sultan, Sharpe saves the life of Arthur Wellesley, the future Duke of Wellington.
In this thrilling prequel, Cornwell introduces readers to Sharpe’s humble beginnings, demonstrating his courage, cunning, and skill that would propel him through the ranks and the Napoleonic Wars.
2. Sharpe’s Triumph (1998)
Set during the Second Anglo-Maratha War in India, Sharpe’s Triumph sees our hero promoted to sergeant. He faces betrayal, treachery, and a daunting mission to rescue a British officer held captive by a warlord.
Sharpe must navigate the chaos of the Battle of Assaye, where British forces are vastly outnumbered, and prove his mettle once more in this tale of bravery, loyalty, and vengeance.
3. Sharpe’s Fortress (1999)
As the British army besieges the impregnable fortress of Gawilghur in India, Sharpe faces new challenges. With a rival sergeant seeking to undermine his position and the reappearance of an old enemy, Sharpe’s future in the army hangs in the balance.
In a stunning climax at the fortress, Sharpe must use his intelligence and combat skills to survive and ensure the British victory.
4. Sharpe’s Trafalgar (2000)
Richard Sharpe finds himself aboard the HMS Calliope en route to England, but his journey takes a thrilling turn when the ship becomes entangled in the Battle of Trafalgar. As the British fleet faces Napoleon’s navy, Sharpe must navigate treacherous waters, both literally and figuratively, in this high-seas adventure filled with danger, intrigue, and unexpected romance.
5. Sharpe’s Prey (2001)
Set in 1807, Sharpe’s Prey follows Richard Sharpe to Copenhagen, where the British are determined to capture the Danish fleet to prevent it from falling into Napoleon’s hands. Amidst the backdrop of a brutal siege, Sharpe must contend with enemies on all sides, including a traitorous British officer, while striving to achieve his mission and survive the deadly conflict.
6. Sharpe’s Rifles (1988)
Newly promoted Lieutenant Sharpe is thrust into the Peninsular War in 1809, fighting in Spain against Napoleon’s forces.
Left to lead an inexperienced group of riflemen after a devastating ambush, Sharpe must forge the soldiers into a cohesive unit and navigate the perils of a foreign land, all while contending with a dangerous Irish rebel who’s determined to destroy him.
7. Sharpe’s Havoc (2003)
Set during the 1809 Portuguese campaign, Sharpe’s Havoc follows Sharpe as he and his men are tasked with safeguarding a valuable supply convoy. As they navigate the treacherous landscape, they uncover a web of conspiracy, betrayal, and espionage that could bring disaster to the British war effort. Sharpe must use his wits and courage to thwart the enemy and ensure the safety of his men.
8. Sharpe’s Eagle (1981)
The first book published in the series, Sharpe’s Eagle follows our hero as he leads his men to capture a French-held fortress in Spain. Desperate to redeem the reputation of the British army after a humiliating defeat, Sharpe must confront his ruthless superiors and a dangerous enemy while navigating the treacherous politics of war.
9. Sharpe’s Gold (1981)
In this action-packed adventure, Sharpe is tasked with a secret mission to recover a hidden cache of gold in enemy-held territory. Along the way, he encounters guerrilla fighters, French forces, and the deadly allure of treasure.
As he battles the odds to complete his mission and protect his men, Sharpe learns the true cost of loyalty and the limits of greed in this high-stakes tale.
10. Sharpe’s Escape (2004)
As the British army retreats from Portugal in 1810, Sharpe finds himself trapped in a deadly situation. Caught between the advancing French forces and the treacherous schemes of a British officer, Sharpe must escape enemy territory and bring the traitor to justice.
This heart-pounding adventure showcases Sharpe’s resourcefulness and determination in the face of adversity.
11. Sharpe’s Fury (2006)
Amidst the chaos of the Battle of Barrosa in 1811, Sharpe is entrusted with a vital mission: to destroy a strategically significant bridge to halt the French advance. As he navigates the shifting allegiances and brutal realities of the Peninsular War, Sharpe faces off against a formidable French adversary, who threatens not only his mission but also his life.
12. Sharpe’s Battle (1995)
Charged with training and leading the untested Royal Irish Company in the Peninsular War, Sharpe soon discovers a treacherous plot involving his own men. As the Battle of Fuentes de Oñoro looms, Sharpe must confront a powerful enemy while defending the honor of his regiment in this gripping tale of loyalty, intrigue, and warfare.
13. Sharpe’s Company (1982)
As the British army lays siege to the fortress of Badajoz in 1812, Sharpe’s position is threatened by a rival officer. Forced to fight for his rank and reputation, Sharpe must also confront a deadly enemy within the walls of the besieged city.
This intense and dramatic story showcases Sharpe’s resilience and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.
14. Sharpe’s Sword (1983)
In the aftermath of the Battle of Salamanca, Sharpe is given a dangerous mission: to capture a French intelligence officer with vital information about Napoleon’s plans. As he pursues his quarry, Sharpe must confront an elusive and deadly adversary, who wields a weapon as lethal as any sword knowledge.
15. Sharpe’s Enemy (1984)
When a group of deserters takes British and French hostages in a remote Spanish village, Sharpe is tasked with their rescue. As he battles against time, treachery, and his own demons, Sharpe must confront a dangerous and resourceful enemy who threatens not only the lives of the hostages but also the fragile alliance between Britain and France.
16. Sharpe’s Honour (1985)
Accused of a crime he didn’t commit, Sharpe faces a court-martial and disgrace. Desperate to clear his name, he embarks on a perilous mission behind enemy lines. With danger at every turn, Sharpe must unravel a web of conspiracy and deceit that reaches the highest levels of the British and French armies.
17. Sharpe’s Regiment (1986)
Sharpe returns to England to investigate the disappearance of newly recruited soldiers destined for his regiment. As he uncovers a corrupt and treacherous system, Sharpe must battle powerful enemies and navigate the complexities of British society to save his regiment and secure justice.
18. Sharpe’s Siege (1987)
In a daring mission, Sharpe leads a force to capture a French fortress on the Atlantic coast, hoping to draw Napoleon’s forces away from Wellington’s army. Besieged by enemy troops and naval bombardment, Sharpe and his men must fight against the odds to achieve their objective and survive the deadly assault.
19. Sharpe’s Revenge (1989)
After Napoleon’s defeat at Waterloo, Sharpe is falsely accused of stealing Napoleon’s treasure and must clear his name. Pursued by enemies and betrayed by friends, Sharpe embarks on a dangerous journey across post-war France to uncover the truth and protect his reputation.
As he battles for justice and survival, he confronts old adversaries and unexpected challenges in this gripping tale of intrigue, revenge, and redemption.
20. Sharpe’s Waterloo (1990)
As the epic Battle of Waterloo unfolds, Sharpe finds himself at the center of the action, fighting alongside his fellow soldiers against Napoleon’s army. In the midst of the carnage and chaos, Sharpe faces personal demons, as well as old and new enemies, as he struggles to survive the battle that will determine the fate of Europe.
This thrilling novel brings Sharpe’s Napoleonic adventures to a dramatic and unforgettable climax.
21. Sharpe’s Devil (1992)
Set in 1820, Sharpe’s Devil takes our hero to South America, where he’s tasked with rescuing an old friend imprisoned by the ruthless Chilean dictator, Don Blas Vivar. As he navigates a world of political intrigue, revolution, and perilous alliances, Sharpe confronts a new and dangerous adversary who threatens not only his mission but also his life.
22. Sharpe’s Assassin (2021)
In this long-awaited return, Sharpe faces one of his most formidable challenges yet: a deadly assassin targeting British officers during the Peninsular War. As he races to unmask the killer and prevent further bloodshed, Sharpe is drawn into a web of betrayal and deceit that threatens the very foundations of the British army.
In this thrilling and suspenseful adventure, Sharpe must use all his skills and courage to survive and protect those he holds dear.
How has the Sharpe series impacted the historical fiction genre?
The Sharpe series has significantly impacted the historical fiction genre by setting a high standard for accurate historical details, vividly realized settings, and compelling character development.
Quick Fact: Bernard Cornwell’s extensive research and commitment to authenticity have inspired many other authors in the genre, while his masterful storytelling has captivated readers and popularized the Napoleonic era in historical fiction.
What makes Richard Sharpe an enduring and appealing character to readers?
Richard Sharpe’s enduring appeal lies in his resilience, resourcefulness, and determination. As an underdog who rises through the ranks of the British army, Sharpe’s struggles and triumphs resonate with readers. His complex personality, which combines a strong sense of honor and loyalty with a ruthless edge, makes him a relatable and intriguing protagonist.
How have the Sharpe novels influenced perceptions of the Napoleonic Wars and the British army during that time?
The Sharpe novels have brought the Napoleonic Wars to life for many readers, providing a detailed and immersive look at the British army’s experiences during that time.
By humanizing the soldiers, their struggles, and their victories, the series has deepened public understanding and appreciation of the era, giving a personal touch to a period often explored only through the lens of military strategy and politics.
Can the Sharpe series be enjoyed by readers unfamiliar with the Napoleonic Wars or military history?
Absolutely! While the Sharpe series is firmly grounded in the historical context of the Napoleonic Wars, Cornwell’s vivid storytelling and engaging characters make the novels accessible and enjoyable for readers with no prior knowledge of the era.
The series offers a compelling blend of action, adventure, romance, and intrigue that appeals to a wide range of readers.
Conclusion
The Sharpe series by Bernard Cornwell stands as a testament to the power of historical fiction to transport readers to another time and place. Through the captivating journey of Richard Sharpe, Cornwell has brought the Napoleonic Wars to life for countless readers, showcasing the grit, determination, and courage of the soldiers who fought in them.
Whether you choose to read the series in publication order or chronological order, the adventures of Richard Sharpe offer an unforgettable literary experience that has left an indelible mark on the genre.