""Mr American" by George McDonald Fraser" Topic

Not a new book by any means (first published 1980) but one that, until now, I'd never bothered to read for some reason, despite being a real fan of the Flashman novels.

And it's well worth reading for those who like GMF – a slightly different subject (a wealthy American with a mysterious past who comes to England in 1905)but with plenty of period character, some nice twists and characters in a proper story, and even a couple of cameo appearances by Harry Flashman (now in his 90's but still as incorrigible as ever).

Well worth getting if, like me, you've overlooked it in the past.

(Oh, and don't forget "Black Ajax" or "The Pyrates" as well. I'm now re-reading and enjoying them as well, but still cannot get into "The Reivers".

Concur. I read the book almost 30 years ago and it is,
to quote Asimov, 'In memory yet green'.

A really good work.

I only QUITE liked it. The period flavour is well done of course, but the story itself isn't very engaging.

The Complete McAuslan on the other hand, might well be my favourite book of all time.

I'll admit to never reading it, despite being a devoted fan of GMF. I suppose I should finally give it a try. Black Ajax is excellent, The Pyrates…not my cup of tea.

I did, coincidentally, find my copy of McAuslan Entire just two days ago. Arguably GMF's greatest work.

I pocked up the Pyrates many times. I never got past 40 pages. Too much … whimsy.

the McAuslan stories are very good.

Agree with the OFM. GMF's memoir of the war in Burma, Quartered Safe Out Here, is outstanding as well.

Yes, I think my GMF favourite (just) is Quartered Safe Out Here but MacAuslan is right up there.

Mr. American has been awaiting me on the shelf for a few years now but your post has given me the nudge I needed and I'll read it next – thanks.

Mr American is certainly worth reading, but I have not re read it, unlike many of his others.