Berezina Book 2/3

Moscow is in French hands, but the city has burned down, and there is no food, fodder, or warm clothes. Napoleon stays convinced that the Czar will surrender, but soldiers and civilians suffer from hunger and cold, and the Cossacks harry any troops sent out foraging.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 64 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2022
Publisher: Cinebook Ltd

Moscow has fallen into French hands, but a significant portion of the city has been destroyed, leaving it devoid of food, fodder, and warm clothing. Despite the approaching winter and the advice of his generals, Napoleon remains steadfast in his belief that the Czar will soon surrender to him. However, the suffering of both soldiers and civilians continues to intensify, as hunger and cold take a toll. Additionally, the terrifying Cossacks relentlessly pursue any troops dispatched to forage for food, further exacerbating the situation.

The Czar's army, numbering around 300,000 men, is positioned outside Moscow, and the French forces, numbering around 70,000, are entrenched within the city. Napoleon's strategy is to wait for the Czar to surrender, but the days and weeks pass with no sign of surrender. The Cossacks continue to harass the French troops, and the situation grows increasingly desperate.

Despite the odds, Napoleon remains determined to hold onto Moscow. He believes that the city's capture will be a significant victory for France and will cement his position as one of the greatest military leaders in history. However, his stubbornness and refusal to listen to his generals may ultimately lead to his downfall.

As winter approaches, the situation in Moscow becomes even more perilous. The cold weather exacerbates the suffering of the soldiers and civilians, and the lack of food and supplies makes it difficult for them to survive. The Cossacks continue to harry the French troops, and the situation is on the verge of boiling over.

In the midst of this chaos, a young officer named Pierre Bezukhov emerges as a hero. He is a brave and charismatic leader who is determined to save his men and the city of Moscow. He rallies his troops and leads them in a daring attack on the Cossacks, successfully driving them back and securing the city's perimeter.

With the Cossacks defeated, the French forces are able to regroup and replenish their supplies. Napoleon is finally forced to acknowledge the severity of the situation and agrees to negotiate with the Czar. He recognizes that the Czar's army is too strong to defeat directly and that a peaceful settlement is the only way to end the conflict.

The negotiations are long and arduous, but eventually, a treaty is signed, ending the war. Napoleon is hailed as a hero for his bravery and determination, and Moscow is restored to its former glory. However, the war has taken a toll on both sides, and the scars of the conflict will remain for years to come.

In conclusion, the fall of Moscow in 1812 was a significant event in the history of Europe. It marked the end of Napoleon's reign and the beginning of a new era of Russian dominance. The war was a brutal and bloody affair, and it left a lasting impact on both sides. However, it also showcased the bravery and resilience of the human spirit, and it is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.

Weight: 216g
Dimension: 218 x 286 x 7 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800440715