With the British Legion: A Story of the Carlist Wars

"With the British Legion: A Story of the Carlist Wars" by G. A. (George Alfred) Henty is a 19th-century historical fiction where young Arthur Hallett, after being kicked out of school repeatedly, impulsively joins the British Legion to fight in the Carlist Wars of Spain. His transformation from a directionless boy into a soldier unfolds amid the tumult and struggles of war as he fights for Queen Christina. Arthur's initial trouble with school and his uncle leads him to seek adventure and a fresh start, drawing him to the Legion. His decision to enlist stems from more than just a thirst for excitement; it's a quest to prove his worth and escape a life that felt dull. Arthur begins to imagine his new life as a soldier once he arrives at the recruiting office and meets different people. Ultimately, the novel follows Arthur's evolution as he embraces responsibility, grows into adulthood, and seeks purpose and belonging while confronting the dire realities of military duty in a war-torn land.