The Story

This book covers a desperate period in the Peninsular War. After the high of Talavera, the Spanish armies suffered a crushing defeat at Ocaña in November 1809. For over a year, French forces under King Joseph seemed unstoppable, conquering Andalusia and driving the Spanish government into the fortified port of Cádiz. The book follows the grim military campaigns, the political infighting, and the gritty defense of Cádiz itself, which became a symbol of resistance. It's the story of a nation on the brink, figuring out how to survive against overwhelming odds.

Why You Should Read It

Oman’s detail is legendary, but what really grabbed me was the human scale of the disaster and recovery. He makes you feel the weight of the Spanish defeats and the sheer improbability of their continued resistance. You see not just Wellington's growing shadow, but the ordinary Spanish soldiers and the junta politicians, flaws and all, who refused to quit. It’s a masterclass in showing how a war is lost on the battlefield but won in the spirit of the people holding out in a besieged city.

Final Verdict

Perfect for history buffs who want to move beyond the British-centric view of the Napoleonic Wars. It’s dense, so it rewards patience, but the payoff is a deep understanding of a pivotal moment. If you’ve read the first two volumes, this is the essential, tense middle chapter. If you're new to Oman, be prepared for a deep dive, but one that makes you appreciate the raw, messy reality of war beyond the famous battles.