June, 1815. The Coldstream Guards and the third guards are waiting impatiently for orders to move into battle against Napoleon and his French army. Every day seems endless as the troops wait for Wellington's orders. When word is finally received, the path to glory it is not quite what the troops were hoping for. Hours of marching during the day are followed by restless nights' sleep in the rain, dampening their spirits and weakening morale. When the group eventually encounter the French in battle, a special command comes from Wellington himself to Colonel James Macdonell of the Coldstream Guards: hold the chateau at Hougoumont and do not let the French pass. What happens next is history.

Andrew Swanston read a little law and a lot of sport at Cambridge University, and held various positions in the book trade, before turning to writing. Inspired by a lifelong interest in seventeenth century history, his 'Thomas Hill' novels are set during the English Civil Wars and the early period of the Restoration. He lives with his wife in Surrey, near to their three children and two grandchildren. His interests include golf, gardening, and drawing.