Jean Larteguy; Xan Fielding [trans.] — The Praetorians

London, Hutchinson, 1963. First edition. Cloth. One of Jean Lartéguy's most successful works; a first UK edition of this novel on the Algerian War. The first UK edition of this work in the publisher's original cloth binding, with the original price-clipped dust wrapper. The English translation of this very successful novel, drawn from the author's experiences as a war correspondent. Set in Algiers at the end of colonial rule, this work explores the Algerian War and the role of the French paratroops. General Peter Pace mentioned this work as one of the inspirations for his surge strategy in Iraq. The author Jean Lartéguy (1920-2011), pseudonym of Jean Pierre Lucien Osty, was a French writer, journalist, and former soldier. His novel was translated by Xan Fielding. In the publisher's original cloth binding, with the original price-clipped dust wrapper. Externally, cloth is in lovely condition. Gilt lettering remains bright. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are generally bright and clean, with the odd spot to the fore edge, affecting the occasional page. Small marks to pages 45 to 47. Dust wrapper remains bright, with a little shelf wear and chipping to the extremities and folds. Two losses to the front flyleaf, which is torn. Very Good Indeed . Ill.: Not Stated. Very Good Indeed/Good.