Napoleon - Softcover

'This life of his hero in two volumes is the work that Dwyer was placed on earth to write ... We are clearly in the presence of what will be a monumental work ... meticulously researched and well-written first volume, which leaves the reader keenly anticipating the second' Andrew Roberts, Literary Review 'Remarkable ... a satisfying, psychologically convincing account of Napoleon's early years and ascent to power. Even-handed and authoritative, this fascinating and highly enjoyable book will be an eye opener even to those who think they know the subject well' Adam Zamoyski, Sunday Times 'Bonaparte's staggering ambition and penchant for blaming others for his mistakes are apparent throughout' Financial Times Summer Books 'An extraordinary story ... Dwyer has his own way of telling the story and this makes his book more than just a canter across familiar terrain ... an attractive addition to the literature on one of the most controversial figures in modern European history' Thomas Munch-Petersen, BBC History Magazine

Napoleon Bonaparte's rise to power was neither inevitable nor smooth; it was full of mistakes, wrong turns and pitfalls. During his formative years his identity was constantly shifting, his character ambiguous and his intentions often ill-defined. He was, however, highly ambitious, and it was this ruthless drive that advanced his career. This book examines the extraordinary evolution of Napoleon's character and the means by which at the age of thirty he became head of the most powerful country in Europe and skilfully fashioned the image of himself that laid the foundation of the legend that endures to this day.