Under the Ensign of the Rising Sun A Story of the Russo-Japanese War By: Harry Collingwood (1851-1922)
Under the Ensign of the Rising Sun by Harry Collingwood is a thrilling historical novel that encapsulates the dramatic events of the Russo-Japanese War. Collingwood's masterful storytelling takes readers on a captivating journey, transporting them to the heart of the conflict between these two formidable nations. Set in the late 19th century, the story follows the adventures of young officer Ralph Martin, who finds himself caught up in the midst of this historic war. Drawing on his own experiences as a former naval officer, Collingwood expertly crafts a tale that combines seamless historical accuracy with richly imagined characters and engaging plotlines. From the very first page, the vivid descriptions of naval battles and land skirmishes immerse readers in the chaos and brutality of war. The author's attention to detail is remarkable, painting a realistic picture of the Russo-Japanese War, capturing both the strategic maneuvers and personal sacrifices made by those involved. Despite the intense military backdrop, Collingwood balances the action with deep insights into the characters' lives and motivations. Ralph Martin, the central protagonist, undergoes a profound transformation as he navigates the horrors of war and comes face to face with the complexities of loyalty and honor. Collingwood brings depth and authenticity to his characters, making their emotional journeys as compelling as the war itself. The storytelling is pitch-perfect, seamlessly blending historical facts with fast-paced action and unexpected twists. Collingwood's writing style is concise yet evocative, imbuing the narrative with a sense of urgency and suspense. With every chapter, the tension builds, keeping readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages to discover what fate has in store for Ralph and his comrades. One of the noteworthy aspects of this novel is the exploration of the cultural clash between Russia and Japan during this period. Collingwood delves into the intricate web of politics, tradition, and national pride that fueled the conflict, offering readers a broader understanding of the war's impact beyond the battlefield. While Under the Ensign of the Rising Sun excels in many areas, it occasionally falls into predictable plot devices and clichéd character arcs. However, these minor flaws pale in comparison to the overall gripping narrative and meticulous attention to historical accuracy. In conclusion, Harry Collingwood's Under the Ensign of the Rising Sun is a captivating historical novel that expertly brings to life the Russo-Japanese War. With its richly developed characters, thrilling action sequences, and a profound exploration of the human condition amidst the horrors of war, this book is not to be missed by fans of historical fiction and military dramas. Collingwood's meticulous research and engaging storytelling make this novel a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of this pivotal moment in history. First Page: Under the Ensign of the Rising Sun, by Harry Collingwood. CHAPTER ONE. DISMISSED THE SERVICE. "Well, good bye, old chap; keep a stiff upper lip, and hope for the best; the truth is pretty sure to come out some day, somehow, and then they will be bound to reinstate you. And be sure you call on the Pater, and tell him the whole yarn. I'll bet he will be able to give you some advice worth having. Also give my love to the Mater, and tell her that I'm looking forward to Christmas. Perhaps I may see you then. Good bye again, and good luck to you." The speaker was young Ronald Gordon, one of the midshipmen belonging to H.M.S. Terrible , and my particular chum; and the words were spoken as we parted company on the platform of Portland railway station, Gordon to return to his ship, while I, an outcast, was bound for London to seek my fortune. Yes; after doing splendidly at Dartmouth, heading the list at the passing out exam, and so at once gaining the rating of midshipman; doing equally well afloat during the subsequent three years and a half, qualifying for Gunnery, Torpedo, and Navigating duties, serving for six months aboard a destroyer, and everywhere gaining the esteem and goodwill of my superiors, here was I, Paul Swinburne, at the age of seventeen and a half, an outcast kicked out of the Navy with ignominy and my career ruined, through the machinations of another, and he my cousin! He, Bob Carr, like myself, a midshipman aboard the Terrible , had committed a crime of a particularly mean and disgraceful character there is no need for me to specify its precise nature and with diabolical ingenuity, knowing that discovery was inevitable, had succeeded in diverting suspicion so strongly toward me that I had been accused, court martialled, and although I had pleaded not guilty found guilty and dismissed the Service... Continue reading book >>

Under the Ensign of the Rising Sun A Story of the Russo-Japanese War By: Harry Collingwood (1851-1922)

Under the Ensign of the Rising Sun by Harry Collingwood is a thrilling historical novel that encapsulates the dramatic events of the Russo-Japanese War. Collingwood's masterful storytelling takes readers on a captivating journey, transporting them to the heart of the conflict between these two formidable nations.

Set in the late 19th century, the story follows the adventures of young officer Ralph Martin, who finds himself caught up in the midst of this historic war. Drawing on his own experiences as a former naval officer, Collingwood expertly crafts a tale that combines seamless historical accuracy with richly imagined characters and engaging plotlines.

From the very first page, the vivid descriptions of naval battles and land skirmishes immerse readers in the chaos and brutality of war. The author's attention to detail is remarkable, painting a realistic picture of the Russo-Japanese War, capturing both the strategic maneuvers and personal sacrifices made by those involved.

Despite the intense military backdrop, Collingwood balances the action with deep insights into the characters' lives and motivations. Ralph Martin, the central protagonist, undergoes a profound transformation as he navigates the horrors of war and comes face to face with the complexities of loyalty and honor. Collingwood brings depth and authenticity to his characters, making their emotional journeys as compelling as the war itself.

The storytelling is pitch-perfect, seamlessly blending historical facts with fast-paced action and unexpected twists. Collingwood's writing style is concise yet evocative, imbuing the narrative with a sense of urgency and suspense. With every chapter, the tension builds, keeping readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages to discover what fate has in store for Ralph and his comrades.

One of the noteworthy aspects of this novel is the exploration of the cultural clash between Russia and Japan during this period. Collingwood delves into the intricate web of politics, tradition, and national pride that fueled the conflict, offering readers a broader understanding of the war's impact beyond the battlefield.

While Under the Ensign of the Rising Sun excels in many areas, it occasionally falls into predictable plot devices and clichéd character arcs. However, these minor flaws pale in comparison to the overall gripping narrative and meticulous attention to historical accuracy.

In conclusion, Harry Collingwood's Under the Ensign of the Rising Sun is a captivating historical novel that expertly brings to life the Russo-Japanese War. With its richly developed characters, thrilling action sequences, and a profound exploration of the human condition amidst the horrors of war, this book is not to be missed by fans of historical fiction and military dramas. Collingwood's meticulous research and engaging storytelling make this novel a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of this pivotal moment in history.

First Page:

Under the Ensign of the Rising Sun, by Harry Collingwood.

CHAPTER ONE.

DISMISSED THE SERVICE.

"Well, good bye, old chap; keep a stiff upper lip, and hope for the best; the truth is pretty sure to come out some day, somehow, and then they will be bound to reinstate you. And be sure you call on the Pater, and tell him the whole yarn. I'll bet he will be able to give you some advice worth having. Also give my love to the Mater, and tell her that I'm looking forward to Christmas. Perhaps I may see you then. Good bye again, and good luck to you."

The speaker was young Ronald Gordon, one of the midshipmen belonging to H.M.S. Terrible , and my particular chum; and the words were spoken as we parted company on the platform of Portland railway station, Gordon to return to his ship, while I, an outcast, was bound for London to seek my fortune.

Yes; after doing splendidly at Dartmouth, heading the list at the passing out exam, and so at once gaining the rating of midshipman; doing equally well afloat during the subsequent three years and a half, qualifying for Gunnery, Torpedo, and Navigating duties, serving for six months aboard a destroyer, and everywhere gaining the esteem and goodwill of my superiors, here was I, Paul Swinburne, at the age of seventeen and a half, an outcast kicked out of the Navy with ignominy and my career ruined, through the machinations of another, and he my cousin!

He, Bob Carr, like myself, a midshipman aboard the Terrible , had committed a crime of a particularly mean and disgraceful character there is no need for me to specify its precise nature and with diabolical ingenuity, knowing that discovery was inevitable, had succeeded in diverting suspicion so strongly toward me that I had been accused, court martialled, and although I had pleaded not guilty found guilty and dismissed the Service... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature
War stories

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