"The Napoleon Options" Topic

So, anyone else had a read? I've just finished the first chapter, by Paddy Griffith. It's about the French invasion of Ireland and by diverting slightly from history (Admiral Jervis has died, the French naval captain in British pay can't stop Hoche from joining his forces), sees an independent Ireland and a more lasting peace.

I don't know much about Hoche, but it's suggested that he's better in the field than Napoleon and less of a threat to the French leaders. Without twenty years of war and 'the fear of military tyranny', the France Republic becomes established and flourishes.

Any thoughts?

I've had the book for about 15 years and it is excellent, though not all the chapters are equal in scholarship.

It's an excellent alternate history from some of the best scholars on the period.

It's an interesting mix, certainly. Any thoughts on the chapter in question?

(This appears to be the copy of the thread that hasn't been cross-posted by the bug).

Better than Napoleon? Hoche was a very competent commander and organizer (Vendée fights, attempted invasion of Ireland) but, Napoleon was a genius.

Agree with Kevin, meat and drink for Wargamers.

Like any multi author book and all such books of counterfactual history….a mixed bag. The South win ACW (Dixie Victorious), Disaster at D Day, The Moscow Option (brilliant), Rising Sun Victorious, Hitler Triumphant, If the Allies had lost, Hitler Options etc etc (I have dozens)……great chapters, some too far fetched, some dull.

I loved the Waterloo chapters but, without scenespoiling, the Allies holding on after DoW's death story and fighting on next day, seems far fetched. Even more Boney rallying his fleeing troops around Genappe. Entertaining through out though.