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Sharpe's Prey

Sharpe's Prey

AdventureEspionage
Published
2001
Language
English

Synopsis

Sharpe's Prey is the fifth novel in Bernard Cornwell's Richard Sharpe series, set during the Napoleonic Wars in 1807. When the British military is desperate to prevent the Danish fleet from falling into Napoleon's hands, they send Richard Sharpe, a decorated but disgraced officer of the 95th Rifles, on a dangerous mission to Copenhagen. His escort is John Lavisser, a British officer who turns out to be a double agent, and the mission quickly becomes a deadly game of espionage, betrayal, and survival. As the city is besieged and the race against time intensifies, Sharpe must uncover the truth behind the conspiracy and stop the fleet from falling into French hands. Cornwell's trademark gritty military action, tense atmosphere, and compelling characters make this a standout in the series.

Prose complexity
3/10

Vibe

TenseGrittyAdventurous
BetrayalMentor FigureFound Family

Genres

Adventure Espionage Military

About the author

B
Bernard Cornwell

Bernard Cornwell (born February 23, 1944) is an English author of historical novels, known for his meticulous research and engaging storytelling. Born in London, England, to a Canadian airman father and a mother in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force, he was adopted by a family in Essex belonging to the Peculiar People sect. Cornwell attended London University and worked as a teacher before joining the BBC, where he spent a decade, eventually becoming Head of Current Affairs in Northern Ireland....

Characters

Richard SharpeProtagonist

A British officer of the 95th Rifles, a former sepoy, now a quartermaster, tasked with a dangerous mission in Copenhagen.

John LavisserAntagonist

A British officer and double agent who betrays Sharpe's mission to the French.

Ole SkovgaardSupporting

A Danish merchant and spy who assists Sharpe in Copenhagen.

BarkerSupporting

Lavisser's ruthless henchman and enforcer.

All characters in Sharpe's Prey