In "Attack of Fortified Places: Including Siege-works, Mining, and Demolitions," James Mercur delves into the intricate techniques and strategies of 19th-century military engineering. The book meticulously dissects the art of siege warfare, illustrating the nuanced methods of breaching fortified structures through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application. Mercur's literary style showcases his extensive research and expertise, using detailed diagrams and historical examples that underscore the complexities of siege tactics within the broader context of military history. James Mercur, a noted military engineer of the late 19th century, drew upon his extensive field experience and scholarly pursuits to compose this pivotal text. His unique perspective is rooted in a career that bridged theoretical frameworks with on-ground execution, thus enriching his analysis of military fortifications. Mercur's understanding of the evolving nature of warfare, influenced by his observations of contemporary conflicts, provided a critical backdrop for his examination of siege operations. This seminal work is essential for anyone interested in military history, engineering, or strategy. Scholars, students, and military practitioners alike will find Mercur's insights invaluable as they explore the dynamics of siege warfare, making it a critical addition to any military history library.

James Mercur remains an obscure figure in the literary domain with scant biographical details available to construct a comprehensive background. His contribution to military literature, however, is outlined by his book 'Attack of Fortified Places. Including Siege-works, Mining, and Demolitions.' This work suggests that Mercur possessed considerable knowledge in the area of military tactics and engineering. His writing indicates an analytical mind with an attention to the detailed and complex nature of military operations concerning fortified positions. The specificity of the subject matter and the level of detail in his treatise imply that he might have had a military background or education in engineering, which was not uncommon for authors of his genre during the time period when the book was written. Mercur's literary style appears to be technical and methodical, indicative of military manuals of the 19th and early 20th centuries, which catered to professionals rather than casual readers. His work probably served as a reference or textbook for military officers and engineers involved in siege warfare. The absence of further literary contributions or a presence in historical records suggests that Mercur may have been a professional with a singular purpose to communicate technical knowledge in his field rather than a career author with a broad literary portfolio.