The Lion's Apprentice, Book 3 in the Neophyte Warrior Series

Richard Patton
Zumaya Publications (2003)
ISBN 1894942116
Reviewed by Ronald J. Martin for Reader Views (8/06)

We have all probably been asked the question, “Are We There Yet?”, sometime in our lives, but if you want to put every long road trip into perspective then look no further than Edward Braddock’s attempt at crossing ‘that small mountain range’ on his way to the Ohio Forks. Braddock is a new player in the Neophyte Warrior Series; a collection of books that center on George Washington’s early life and his experiences in the French and Indian War.

Edward Braddock is the English government’s answer to the French challenge for power in America. Braddock is no spring chicken, but the main concern with the mission is to keep the budget as small as possible so there is no need to send a five star general. In fact despite a high rank, Braddock has never actually been in combat (very similar to Washington’s experience one year earlier).

“The Lion’s Apprentice” is another great addition to this series. This book doesn’t have much action in it but focuses on the slow, long, painstaking journey that the military attempts. The depth of character development makes up for any lack of battles and engagements.

The main character, George Washington, has finally made it into the British forces after resigning from the Virginia Militia, albeit as a courtesy rank of ‘aide-de-camp’. After his defeat at Great Meadows his knowledge of the land and ‘wilderness battle tactics’ are considered a welcomed addition to the British troops, which have been hurled into the new world.

The English just cannot imagine that such vast expanses of thick trees, brush, and tall mountains can exist and go on for what seems like forever. Braddock even had the preposterous notion of trying to travel in his horse drawn carriage on what could be barley called a foot trail - definitely not a road. It all looked so easy when examining the maps back at the headquarters in England. After crossing hill after hill and going over or around mountain after mountain: the patience and energy of many is exhausted. Which leads to both commanders and troops asking the same question; “Are we there yet?”

I really enjoyed this novel. Richard Patton has created a very entertaining story. None of the previous characters are left out; the lives of Stump Neck, Old Smoke, Sally Fairfax and others are all included in this book and really help to add different perspectives to the story.

After reading the third book it has now become apparent to me that each book in the series is not meant to stand alone. So before jumping ahead to this one, I would recommend that readers check out “His Majesty’s Envoy” and “The Reluctant Commander”, books 1 and 2 respectively.

This book is a great build up for the inevitable conflict between the English, French, and Indians and does a good job of keeping the readers interest.

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