250 pages
English language
Published April 30, 1982 by Viking Press.
Bold, professional, ruthless - hero and man of actionThe stench was thick by the hermitage and buzzing with flies, and Sharpe paused by the steps.There was almost a reluctance to go inside, not just because of the bodies but because of what the hermitage might not contain.The gold.Fresh from battle and covered in glory, Sharpe and his regiment are called north by Wellington.On arrival though Sharpe is set on a desperate mission–to go behind enemy lines and secure the gold so vital to the success of the war.Success means riches–not just for the army, but for Sharpe and his men.The enemy he faces strikes terror in to the hearts of all around –a renegade guerrilla band whose leader has a particular loathing for Sharpe who has stolen his woman.
While a smaller story in scope than some, the story builds a great sense of impending doom, with Andy antagonist who isn’t quite as arch as the story that follows. The recurring characters are well entrenched into their roles at this point. (In this second book written) which is a bit of a let down from the chronologically earlier but more recently written books in the series.
