VC — A Chronicle of Castle Barfield and of the Crimea   By: David Christie Murray (1847-1907)

David Christie Murray’s VC — A Chronicle of Castle Barfield and of the Crimea is a captivating historical novel that brings to life the heroic journey of a young soldier during the Crimean War. Through its vivid storytelling and well-researched details, Murray paints a clear picture of the emotional and physical struggles faced by soldiers in the face of battle.

Set in the mid-19th century, the novel focuses on the life of Paul Vause, a courageous and determined protagonist. Paul’s journey begins in the idyllic village of Castle Barfield, where he grows up amongst a close-knit community. However, as war breaks out in Crimea, he enlists as a soldier, embarking on a journey that will change him forever.

Murray’s writing style is both eloquent and descriptive, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the landscapes and atmospheres of each scene. His attention to detail, particularly in recounting the horrors of war, is both commendable and harrowing. The account of the Battle of Balaclava is particularly intense and allows readers to gain a deeper understanding of the chaos and violence that soldiers faced during this time.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its characterization. Murray creates a diverse cast of characters, each with their unique personalities and motivations. Paul, in particular, undergoes a remarkable transformation from a naïve young man to a battle-hardened soldier. Readers witness his growth and resilience as he endures the physical and emotional toll of war, which further fuels the emotional investment in his character.

Moreover, Murray provides readers with a well-rounded depiction of the Crimean War, delving beyond the battlefield to explore the politics and societal implications of the conflict. This adds depth to the narrative and offers a broader understanding of the historical context surrounding the events.

However, the novel does have a few shortcomings. The pacing occasionally feels uneven, with some sections detailed to a fault and others rushed. Additionally, while the context and background of the characters are well-established, more exploration of their internal thoughts and emotions could have added further depth to the story.

Overall, VC — A Chronicle of Castle Barfield and of the Crimea is a thought-provoking and meticulously crafted historical novel. David Christie Murray’s ability to recreate the intensity and humanity of war is commendable, making this book a captivating read for fans of historical fiction and military narratives.

First Page:

The people of Castle Barfield boast that the middle of their High Street is on a level with the cross of St. Paul's Cathedral. The whole country side is open, and affords a welcome to storm from whatever corner of the compass it may blow. You have to get right away into the Peak district before you can find anything like an eminence of distinction, though the mild slopes of Quarry moor and Cline, a few miles to the westward, save the prospect from complete monotony. East, and a trifle to the north, rises Beacon Hargate, on the top whereof one of the innumerable bonfires which warned England of the coming of the Armada hung out its flaming banner in the sight of three counties. Topping that high tableland, Beacon Hargate is familiar with wild weather at the proper seasons, and by dint of use takes very little notice of it. But on the evening on which this story has its proper beginning such a storm raged round and over the old Beacon as no man or woman of that region could even remember. It began in the grey of the dawn in wild and fitful gusts, driving thick squalls of rain before them, but long before midday it lost its first waywardness and settled down to business with a steady purpose... Continue reading book >>