Acknowledgements
A first novel is very special because, even in middle-age, there is so much to learn. I’m especially grateful to Natasha Fairweather, my agent, whom I steered over Crimean battlefields and then who steered me, patiently and kindly towards the finished product; to Susan Watt, my editor, whose help has been invaluable; to my long-suffering friends Heather Millican and Richard Kemp; and my wife Cait and son Rupert who have listened to every syllable with huge self-control.
Lastly, I must pay tribute to the men and women of all nations who fought in the Crimea. Ever since I was a small boy they’ve fascinated me: I hope I’ve done them justice.
