Point of View

Author George MacDonald Fraser uses the octogenarian Harry Flashman, retired as a Brigadier-General from the British Army early in the 20th century, as a memorialist reviewing a long and seemingly illustrious career. Fraser claims to be just a technical editor who also adds historical and cultural endnotes to help the reader. The present novel is the fourth part of the cache of "Flashman Papers" discovered late in the 20th century by Fraser.

"Flashy" assumes that readers are familiar with his earlier exploits, and reminds them continually of how his reputation as an intrepid hero is at odds with reality. Somehow, something always seems to come along not only to put him in harm's way but also to deliver him from it and leave him looking good to everyone around. Flashy readily admits to crippling fear and following the impulse to flee danger, but has not, until...