Snake & Sword

Snake and Sword is one of the first novels of P. C. Wren. Damocles de Warrenne, or simply Dam, has inherited irrational fear of snakes from his mother and, though quite intelligent, capable and brave soldier, he faints at the mere sight of a snake, which is causing him big problems. He can't manage to become an officer in the army, but only a private. He also loses love and respect of the woman he fancies and it is leading him deeper into self exile. Dam must conquer his fears in order to regain the respect of his fellow soldiers and the love of a woman.