Books

As a non-fiction author, I’ve written several books exploring aspects of British-American military affairs in the eighteenth century. I’m interested in presenting compelling, readable narratives based on credible research, which offer challenging new perspectives. With this approach, I’ve broken new ground in historical research while engaging with a more general readership and have gained major awards.

Image detail from the cover of Stephen Brumwell's book 'Turncoat' showing Benedict Arnold in a two-coloured coat, adapted from a 1776 print.

Turncoat: Benedict Arnold and the Crisis of American Liberty

“The most balanced and insightful assessment of Benedict Arnold to date. Utilizing fresh manuscript sources, Brumwell reasserts the crucial importance of human agency in history.” Edward G. Lengel, author of General George Washington, and editor of the Papers of George Washington

Image detail from the cover of Stephen Brumwell's book 'George Washington: Gentleman Warrior' showing George Washington on horseback, a detail from the painting 'The Death of General Mercer at Princeton' by John Trumbull.

George Washington: Gentleman Warrior

“Well-written and engaging . . . In the hands of this fine biographer, Washington emerges as a flesh and blood man, more impressive than the mythical hero could ever be.” 2013 Washington Book Prize Jury’s finalist selection citation

Image detail from the cover of Stephen Brumwell's book 'White Devil' showing a print of Robert Rogers and his Rangers.

White Devil: A True Story of War, Savagery, and Vengeance in Colonial America

“Writing with verve and great narrative drive, Brumwell delivers a story full of adventure, brutality, and moral ambiguity that readers will not want to put down. A splendid book.” Professor Fred Anderson, author of ‘Crucible of War’

Image detail of painting by Edward Penny of the Death of General Wolfe at Quebec in 1759.

Paths of Glory: The Life and Death of General James Wolfe

“Every so often, books are published that combine first-rate, innovative scholarship and page-turning readability. Stephen Brumwell’s revisionary retelling of the life of James Wolfe is a shining example … This generous reassessment is overdue.” Globe and Mail

Image detail from the cover of Stephen Brumwell's book 'Cassell's Companion to Eighteenth Century Britain' showing a print of drunken revellers.

Cassell’s Companion to Eighteenth Century Britain

This provides a considered overview of the hugely significant political, diplomatic and military events, together with an in depth coverage of the economic, social and cultural factors that shaped this era of British history

Image detail from the cover of Stephen Brumwell's book 'Redcoats' showing painting by Benjamin West of a British officer saving a French soldier from a Native American.

Redcoats: The British Soldier and War in the Americas, 1755-1763

“. . . an excellent, challenging book, convincingly argued through many vivid stories and original research.” Spectator