Sharpe in different war settings
I used to watch this alot as a kid when at my grandparents' while it was shown on daytime itv.
Since then, I started to re-watch it, and then I saw that there's a book series depicting Sharpe's grandson fighting in the ACW.
It made me think: What if Sharpe was set during the First World War?
The Rifle Brigade served with distinction during the war (it descended from the 95th Rifles)
Sharpe could use a P1908 Bayonet as an ersatz sword or even carry a club of some kind.
instead of a Nock gun, Harper could carry a Lewis gun (similar silhouette).
The 'South Essex Pals' could be a privately raised force by Sir Simmerson that falls into obscurity due to feckless waste of men and abuse by 'the lash'.
Harper could have his loyalties tested by the Easter rising of 1916.
The King's Royal Rifle Corps is descended from the 20th Royal American Rifles, fought alongside the Rifle Brigade during the war also, which would dovetail nicely.
LeRoy could either serve in the South Essex Pals, or he could be present at the front with the French Foreign Legion, similar dynamic with Simmerson as 'an old friend' with shifty dealings.
Dubreton & his NCO Jean [iirc] could return as proper allies, etc
Any ideas in the comments let me know!