Under the Red Dragon: A Novel

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

53874

Title

Under the Red Dragon: A Novel

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set against the backdrop of the Crimean War, this novel follows a Welsh Fusilier's journey from the barracks to the front lines and back to a romantic retreat in North Wales. Blending military adventure with domestic drama, the story explores themes of love, loss, and the harsh realities of war through the eyes of an officer navigating duty, friendship, and a complicated past.

Summary up to 500 words

James Grant's *Under the Red Dragon* weaves a tale of love, war, and redemption, centering on Harry Hardinge, a subaltern in the Welsh Fusiliers. The narrative begins with Hardinge receiving an invitation from his childhood friend, Sir Madoc Lloyd, to visit Craigaderyn Court in North Wales. While awaiting deployment to the Crimean War, Hardinge struggles with his affections for Sir Madoc's daughter, Winifred, and his lingering attachment to Estelle Cressingham. The story contrasts the idyllic, festive atmosphere of the Welsh countryside with the grim realities of the Eastern front. Hardinge's regiment faces the threat of cholera and the prospect of battle, eventually participating in the siege of Sevastopol, the Charge of the Light Brigade, and the assault on the Redan. Hardinge is severely wounded, losing his arm, yet his bravery earns him the Victoria Cross. Despite his injury and the trauma of war, he returns to civilian life to reconcile his past loves and find peace. The plot intertwines subplots involving other officers, such as the thoughtful Gwynne and the dashing Caradoc, as well as the rivalry with the mysterious Guilfoyle. The narrative culminates in a royal presentation ceremony in Hyde Park, where Hardinge receives his medal before his wedding to Winifred. The novel concludes with a reflection on fifteen years of peace and happiness at Craigaderyn, highlighting the enduring bonds of friendship and the transformative power of love amidst the chaos of war.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/53874.epub.noimages

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data/epubs/pg53874.epub

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2026-06-29 23:08 UTC

Categories

• History
• Fiction