Let's be clear from the start: this isn't a novel. It's exactly what the title says—a long, detailed letter. But don't let that fool you. It's one of the most gripping historical documents I've read in ages.

The Story

In the mid-19th century, Major Robert Carmichael-Smyth, a veteran of the Napoleonic Wars, picks up a popular history book written by a friend (the unnamed author of 'The...'). The book repeats a famous and stirring story about the Duke of Wellington at Waterloo, specifically regarding the order he gave for the final, decisive advance. Carmichael-Smyth reads it and hits the roof. He sits down and writes this letter, point by point, to explain why that story couldn't possibly be true. He pulls from his own frontline experience, his knowledge of battlefield commands, and the simple logistics of the day to pick the legend apart. The 'plot' is the progression of his argument, as he meticulously dismantles a piece of history that had already become beloved public myth.

Why You Should Read It

This book is a masterclass in seeing how history gets made—and how it can get twisted. Carmichael-Smyth's voice is incredible. You can feel his frustration, his pride in his service, and his burning need for accuracy. It's personal. He's not a detached scholar; he's a soldier correcting what he sees as a dishonor to his comrades and his commander. Reading it feels like being a fly on the wall for a brilliant, heated after-dinner debate. It makes you question every 'well-known' story you've ever heard. The themes are timeless: memory vs. fact, the birth of legends, and one individual's fight against a comfortable, popular narrative.

Final Verdict

This is a perfect pick for history buffs who enjoy primary sources, military enthusiasts, and anyone who loves a good real-life mystery. It's also surprisingly great for readers who normally find history dry, because the Major's personality jumps off the page. It's short, passionate, and will change how you think about the stories we tell ourselves about the past. Just be warned: you'll finish it and immediately want to go research the Battle of Waterloo yourself!