I must admit to being somewhat underwhelmed by this novel, compared to Hardy's other works. Anne Garland is a less than compelling heroine, although some of the other characters, such as Festus and Rob, are well drawn, if somewhat caricacturistic. Certainly the idea of the novel as historical fiction was interesting, and says much of the lasting appeal of that genre. ( )

Britain and France are at war in 1804. Anne has loved Robert since she is a child but she couldn't say she loves him so Robert doesn't notice her mid and he proposed to another girl, Matilda. On the other hand, two men love Anne.
I feel sad at last phrase. This scene is laid in the middle of war but it is a romantic tale.. ( )

The woman named Anne loved Rovert.
But Rovert has fiance.
On the other hand there are two men who loved Anne.
Whom does she marry at the end?
It read while thinking about continuation. ( )

On of the earliest set of Hardy novels. Taking place when Napoleon was threatening the English south coast. ( )

The job of the Trumpet Major in British Army Horse regiments is to supervise the training and deployment of trumpeters who blow daily duty and ceremonial calls. The heroine of this novel, Ann Garland, is pursued by 3 suitors, John Loveday, the trumpet major, an honest and devoted soldier, his brother Bob, a seaman and womaniser, and Festus Derriman, the cowardly son of a local aristocrat.

The setting is the Napoleonic wars, and it seems Miss Garland has a penchant for men in uniform. Of the two brothers, John fights with Wellington at Waterloo, and Bob serves with Nelson at Trafalgar. Unlike most Hardy novels, most of the characters live happy and fulfilled lives.