The Young Franc-Tireurs

by G. A. Henty

First published 1872

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2.5(5)

When the Franco-Prussian War begins in 1870, young English protagonists living in France are drawn into the conflict and eventually fight alongside irregular French forces. The rapid German advance, the fall of Napoleon III and the siege conditions that follow turn familiar countryside into contested territory.

Serving as franc-tireurs requires mobility, secrecy and a willingness to operate outside the structures of a regular army. The novel follows raids, escapes and changing front lines while showing how invasion affects civilians as well as soldiers during France's military and political collapse.