One of the Six Hundred: A Novel

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

55179

Title

One of the Six Hundred: A Novel

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set against the backdrop of the Crimean War, this novel follows Newton Norcliff, a young cavalry officer leaving the monotony of barracks life for a month of leave before facing foreign service. Blending personal romance with the brutal realities of battle, the story captures the chivalry and tragedy of the era, culminating in the famous Charge of the Light Brigade.

Summary up to 500 words

In James Grant's *One of the Six Hundred*, Lieutenant Newton Norcliff, a twenty-four-year-old lancer, takes a brief leave from his regiment in Maidstone to visit his family in Scotland. The narrative weaves together his domestic life, his enduring affection for his cousin Cora, and vivid memories of his service in India. Upon returning to duty, Norcliff finds himself in the Crimea during the height of the conflict. The story captures the intense tension of reconnaissance missions and the chaotic reality of artillery fire. A pivotal moment occurs when Norcliff and a small group of men risk their lives to retrieve the mutilated body of their friend Rakeleigh from the battlefield, an act of bravery that earns Norcliff the Victoria Cross. The novel culminates in the tragic Charge of the Light Brigade, where Norcliff witnesses the devastating losses of his comrades. The story concludes with a return to peace, where Norcliff and Cora are married, having secured their estates. They dedicate their lives to remembering the fallen heroes of the Alma and Sebastopol, honoring the memory of the brave fellows who died before the siege. The novel serves as a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the cavalry during the Crimean War.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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data/epubs/pg55179.epub

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2026-06-30 04:17 UTC

Categories

• History
• Fiction