"Harley Greenoak's Charge" by Bertram Mitford is an exhilarating work of historical fiction that immerses readers in the adventure and heroism of the Boer War in South Africa. Set against the backdrop of the British Empire's colonial endeavors, Mitford weaves a gripping tale of duty, honor, and conflict. As a military adventure novel, "Harley Greenoak's Charge" follows the exploits of the brave cavalryman, Harley Greenoak, as he navigates the treacherous landscapes of colonial Africa. Amidst the chaos of battle and the challenges of colonialism, Greenoak's story unfolds with heart-pounding action and courage. Mitford's vivid portrayal of the Boer War captures the essence of a tumultuous era in South African history, depicting the struggles and triumphs of soldiers fighting for their country and empire. The novel's action-packed scenes and exploration of heroism resonate with readers, transporting them to the heart of the battlefield. Through its exploration of duty and honor, "Harley Greenoak's Charge" offers readers a compelling glimpse into the complexities of war and colonialism, while celebrating the resilience and bravery of those who served in the British cavalry. As a historical novel, it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Boer War and the indomitable spirit of those who fought in it.
Bertram Mitford FRGS (13 June 1855–4 October 1914) was a colonial writer, novelist, essayist, and cultural critic who published forty-four books, the majority of which were set in South Africa. He was a contemporary of H Rider Haggard. He was a Mitford family member and the third son of Edward Ledwich Osbaldeston Mitford (1811-1912). In 1895, he became the 31st Lord of the Manor of Mitford, succeeding his brother Colonel John Philip Osbaldeston Mitford. He died in 1912 at Mitford Hall in Northumberland. Bertram Mitford was born in Bath in 1855, educated at Hurstpierpoint College in Sussex, traveled to southern Africa in 1874, lived in Cheltenham in 1881, married Zima Helen Gentle, daughter of Alfred Ebden, on March 9, 1886 in Brighton, had daughter Yseulte Helen on June 3, 1887 (died July 1969), son Roland Bertram on June 17, 1891 (died April 16, 1932), lived in London in 1891, and died of liver disease in 1914 in Cowfold, Sussex. He belonged to four London clubs: The Junior Athenaeum, Savage, the New Vagabond, and the Wigwam.
