Sapper 
The Lieutenant and Others 

In ‘The Lieutenant and Others’ by Sapper, readers are taken on a thrilling journey through a series of short stories that revolve around the life of a young lieutenant and his experiences during World War I. Sapper’s writing style is concise and impactful, capturing the essence of war through vivid descriptions and realistic dialogue. The stories reflect the literary context of the era, showcasing a mix of adventure, camaraderie, and the harsh realities of battle. Each tale offers a unique perspective on the challenges faced by soldiers on the front lines, making this collection a valuable contribution to war literature. Sapper, a pseudonym for British author Herman Cyril Mc Neile, draws on his own military background to craft authentic narratives that resonate with readers. His firsthand experience in the war likely inspired him to write these compelling stories, revealing the sacrifices and struggles of soldiers fighting for their country. Through ‘The Lieutenant and Others, ‘ Sapper pays homage to the bravery and resilience of those who served in the Great War. I highly recommend ‘The Lieutenant and Others’ to readers interested in historical fiction and war literature. Sapper’s gripping storytelling and insightful portrayal of wartime experiences make this collection a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human cost of conflict.

About the author

Sapper is the pen name of Herman Cyril Mc Neile, a British soldier and author born on September 28, 1888, in Bodmin, Cornwall. Mc Neile served in the Royal Engineers (a sapper is a military engineer) during World War I, which greatly influenced his literary career. Drawing on his wartime experiences, he crafted stories with vivid detail and a sense of authenticity that resonated with readers. Sapper’s writing is characterized by its energetic prose, patriotic themes, and a flair for action and adventure, reflecting the prevailing sentiments of the post-war era. His work often revolves around the adventures of upper-class military heroes, capturing the imagination of his audience with gripping narrative and robust characterizations. ‘The Lieutenant and Others’ is one of the collections of short stories by Sapper, where he exhibits his storytelling prowess and war-time experiences through an array of characters and scenarios. Through such works, Sapper not only entertained audiences but also provided a cultural lens on post-war British society, masculinity, and the ethos of the military officer class. After the war, Sapper continued to write and achieved commercial success. He is perhaps best known for creating the character Bulldog Drummond, who became the protagonist in a series of books that contributed to the prototype of the modern thriller genre. Mc Neile’s Bulldog Drummond novels have overshadowed ‘The Lieutenant and Others, ‘ but the latter remains a testament to his narrative skill and his ability to capture the nuances of military life. Mc Neile passed away on August 14, 1937, leaving behind a rich legacy within British literature of the early 20th century.