INCREDIBLE TRUE STORY OF WAR IN AFGANISTAN!, 09 Oct 2008
What an incredible true story Ed Macy delivers in "Apache".Detailing the the harsh brutal realities of war in Afganistan and the incredible devotion and bravery our troops display daily.This book is a great read for those not interested in military matters as much as for those that are.Utterly compelling and the "Jugroom Fort" chapters are so engaging you'll not want to put the book down before you finish them.

Absolutely recommended.

AN ABSOLUTE STONKING SUPERB READ !!!, 09 Oct 2008
THIS HAS GOT TO BE ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS IVE READ , IT TOTALY PUTS YOU IN THE COCKPIT WITH ED , FANTASTIC , AMAZING ACCOUNT OF THE BATTLE THAT THE AIR CORP DOES ON A DAILY BASIS ,THE APACHE IS ONE MEAN BABY ! WOW !!!!!!

A Brilliant Debut!!, 28 Sep 2008
It's hard to comprehend, on reading Apache, that this is a debut book. Ed Macy writes with such confidence and skill it really brings home exactly what our troops are facing every day. Rarely does a book hold my attention from the first page to the last, but there's something about this book that makes you want to continue right to the end. This book has everything Hollywood blockbusters can only dream about. Romance, action, cheers and tears, I went through the whole range of emotions. This book is definately worth reading, at least twice!!

The standard all air warfare books should be set by., 27 Sep 2008
Having worked in the AH community since the Apache's inception into the British Armed forces this book has been a long time coming but it was certainly well worth the wait.Written with compassion and humour by an obviously very intelligent chap it took me back to my time in Helmland like a slap in the face and at times i had to put the book down to wipe away a tear and take in what i had just read.The descriptions of the aircraft strike the balance perfectly between technical awareness and laymans speak so even a non aviation type can read the book and come away with a good grasp of the aircraft and its systems.The greatest tribute i can give is that it has given great justice to the memory of mathew ford.I thank you ED for a Wizard read.

Astonishing, 21 Sep 2008
Having bought this book a week ago, and finishing it in less than a day, I suddenly realized I should write a few words about it. This book is absolutely fantastic, and provides you with all the information, and graphic descriptions you could ever want. The tales of courage are just outstanding and after reading this, I have decided that I am going to try out for AAC selection.
I highly recommend this book to all

INCREDIBLE TRUE STORY OF WAR IN AFGANISTAN!, 09 Oct 2008
What an incredible true story Ed Macy delivers in "Apache".Detailing the the harsh brutal realities of war in Afganistan and the incredible devotion and bravery our troops display daily.This book is a great read for those not interested in military matters as much as for those that are.Utterly compelling and the "Jugroom Fort" chapters are so engaging you'll not want to put the book down before you finish them.

Absolutely recommended.

AN ABSOLUTE STONKING SUPERB READ !!!, 09 Oct 2008
THIS HAS GOT TO BE ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS IVE READ , IT TOTALY PUTS YOU IN THE COCKPIT WITH ED , FANTASTIC , AMAZING ACCOUNT OF THE BATTLE THAT THE AIR CORP DOES ON A DAILY BASIS ,THE APACHE IS ONE MEAN BABY ! WOW !!!!!!

A Brilliant Debut!!, 28 Sep 2008
It's hard to comprehend, on reading Apache, that this is a debut book. Ed Macy writes with such confidence and skill it really brings home exactly what our troops are facing every day. Rarely does a book hold my attention from the first page to the last, but there's something about this book that makes you want to continue right to the end. This book has everything Hollywood blockbusters can only dream about. Romance, action, cheers and tears, I went through the whole range of emotions. This book is definately worth reading, at least twice!!

The standard all air warfare books should be set by., 27 Sep 2008
Having worked in the AH community since the Apache's inception into the British Armed forces this book has been a long time coming but it was certainly well worth the wait.Written with compassion and humour by an obviously very intelligent chap it took me back to my time in Helmland like a slap in the face and at times i had to put the book down to wipe away a tear and take in what i had just read.The descriptions of the aircraft strike the balance perfectly between technical awareness and laymans speak so even a non aviation type can read the book and come away with a good grasp of the aircraft and its systems.The greatest tribute i can give is that it has given great justice to the memory of mathew ford.I thank you ED for a Wizard read.

Astonishing, 21 Sep 2008
Having bought this book a week ago, and finishing it in less than a day, I suddenly realized I should write a few words about it. This book is absolutely fantastic, and provides you with all the information, and graphic descriptions you could ever want. The tales of courage are just outstanding and after reading this, I have decided that I am going to try out for AAC selection.
I highly recommend this book to all

The story of a True Heroine, 11 Sep 2008

When the German army invaded Paris in 1940, Agnes Humbert a strong minded, politically aware art historian, immediately knew that she had to 'do something', the thought of accepting the invasion was anathema to her and she helped to form one of the first organised groups of the French Resistance. The speed with which this was set up and began to operate was staggering. She had excellent contacts and friends in literary and journalistic circles and an underground newspaper, combating the German propaganda machine, was printed and circulated around Paris. It was simply amazing that they managed to keep this going and out of the hands of the authorities for nearly a year before they were betrayed and she was arrested and thrown into prison. Seven of the men who founded the group died by firing squad and Agnes, while escaping the death penalty, was sentenced to five years in a German labour camp.

She had kept a diary up to her imprisonment and she completed it after liberation in 1945. Unable to keep a written record of her experiences she recreated them afterwards, relying on her memory alone. This gives this fascinating book a contrast in writing, the earlier diary memories dashed down quickly on a daily basis, breathless and eager to get everything on paper as it happened; the later reflections more considered even though she wrote at top speed in 1945 after the was liberated and before her memories faded. 'I remember everything as clearly as it it was written in notebooks' everything was recorded in memory and all she had to do was slowly turn the pages.

She worked in a factory spinning materials for uniforms for the German troops, often working a 12 hour shift, with little food and having to stand for hours, weak with fatigue

"My feet are absolute agony and we'll be standing here for hours. I have a brainwave. I ask permission to take off my awful shoes (my insteps are bleeding) and wrap my feet in the lengths of rayon that are scattered all round........the director on Anrath (the factory) is going to carry out an inspection and I was told I should stand to attention when he arrives....he stops in front of me asking me viciously why I have taken off my shoes. I explain. He replies: 'Very good you will be severely punished' and with that promise he leaves me'.

Despite all this Agnes makes sure that she causes the cotton to knot and break and does her best to carry out minor acts of sabotage which will cause maximum inconvenience. Later, when she is set to making boxes, once she has hammered in the nails, she makes sure she shears them off so that the crates will fall apart as soon as possible. Such actions continue throughout her five years and these small rebellions strengthen her will and help to keep her going even when her weight plummets and she is given the nickname 'Ghandi' as she is so bony and skeletal.

In this closed world, with teachers and professors working cheek by jowl with prostitutes and murderers, the solidarity and camaraderie among the prisoners assumes the importance of life saving proportions. Friendships of exceptional intensity are formed, generally between prisoners who hardly ever see each others faces and who have little time for intimate chat or gossip though at first Agnes had harsh words for the criminals with whom she was in such close proximity: 'Wretched faces, vicious and primitive, a collection of gallows birds, thieves, syphilitic prostitutes and murderers'.

Once liberation took place and the prisoners were all released by the incoming American army, Agnes embarked on important work with them. With her fluent German and English and her knowledge of the workings of the Nazi camp system, she made herself indispensable and In an amazingly short space of time her authority and energy restored, she was put in charge of administration of the town where they were billeted organising local prison camps, provision of shelter and food and first aid to refugees.

The rapidity with which she shed her identity as a political prisoner after four years of imprisonment is quite astounding and a tribute to her strength of personality and intelligence. After the war she became a founder and president of her local group of a left wing organisation Fighters for Freedom, and in 1949 was awarded the Croix de Guerre.

For many years this book Notre Guerre, was out of print and unobtainable though when it was first published in 1946 it caused quite a stir. It was one of the first books written about the Resistance and written while memories were fresh and, according to the Afterword, historians were immediately aware of this testimony and its value has continued to be recognised ever since.

I found Agnes' story to be profoundly moving, it took my breath away at times and also made me laugh, as she had a wicked sense of humour. Whenever I read a book such as this, and one that is a true story as well, I am staggered at the bravery displayed under fire. It makes me feel very humble and also makes me wonder just how I would behave and act if placed in such circumstances. I am thankful that I have never had to find out, but gosh a document such as this does make you think.

A truly wonderful book and I have no hesitation if giving it five stars. Do buy and read - you won't regret it.

INCREDIBLE TRUE STORY OF WAR IN AFGANISTAN!, 09 Oct 2008
What an incredible true story Ed Macy delivers in "Apache".Detailing the the harsh brutal realities of war in Afganistan and the incredible devotion and bravery our troops display daily.This book is a great read for those not interested in military matters as much as for those that are.Utterly compelling and the "Jugroom Fort" chapters are so engaging you'll not want to put the book down before you finish them.

Absolutely recommended.

AN ABSOLUTE STONKING SUPERB READ !!!, 09 Oct 2008
THIS HAS GOT TO BE ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS IVE READ , IT TOTALY PUTS YOU IN THE COCKPIT WITH ED , FANTASTIC , AMAZING ACCOUNT OF THE BATTLE THAT THE AIR CORP DOES ON A DAILY BASIS ,THE APACHE IS ONE MEAN BABY ! WOW !!!!!!

A Brilliant Debut!!, 28 Sep 2008
It's hard to comprehend, on reading Apache, that this is a debut book. Ed Macy writes with such confidence and skill it really brings home exactly what our troops are facing every day. Rarely does a book hold my attention from the first page to the last, but there's something about this book that makes you want to continue right to the end. This book has everything Hollywood blockbusters can only dream about. Romance, action, cheers and tears, I went through the whole range of emotions. This book is definately worth reading, at least twice!!

The standard all air warfare books should be set by., 27 Sep 2008
Having worked in the AH community since the Apache's inception into the British Armed forces this book has been a long time coming but it was certainly well worth the wait.Written with compassion and humour by an obviously very intelligent chap it took me back to my time in Helmland like a slap in the face and at times i had to put the book down to wipe away a tear and take in what i had just read.The descriptions of the aircraft strike the balance perfectly between technical awareness and laymans speak so even a non aviation type can read the book and come away with a good grasp of the aircraft and its systems.The greatest tribute i can give is that it has given great justice to the memory of mathew ford.I thank you ED for a Wizard read.

Astonishing, 21 Sep 2008
Having bought this book a week ago, and finishing it in less than a day, I suddenly realized I should write a few words about it. This book is absolutely fantastic, and provides you with all the information, and graphic descriptions you could ever want. The tales of courage are just outstanding and after reading this, I have decided that I am going to try out for AAC selection.
I highly recommend this book to all

The story of a True Heroine, 11 Sep 2008

When the German army invaded Paris in 1940, Agnes Humbert a strong minded, politically aware art historian, immediately knew that she had to 'do something', the thought of accepting the invasion was anathema to her and she helped to form one of the first organised groups of the French Resistance. The speed with which this was set up and began to operate was staggering. She had excellent contacts and friends in literary and journalistic circles and an underground newspaper, combating the German propaganda machine, was printed and circulated around Paris. It was simply amazing that they managed to keep this going and out of the hands of the authorities for nearly a year before they were betrayed and she was arrested and thrown into prison. Seven of the men who founded the group died by firing squad and Agnes, while escaping the death penalty, was sentenced to five years in a German labour camp.

She had kept a diary up to her imprisonment and she completed it after liberation in 1945. Unable to keep a written record of her experiences she recreated them afterwards, relying on her memory alone. This gives this fascinating book a contrast in writing, the earlier diary memories dashed down quickly on a daily basis, breathless and eager to get everything on paper as it happened; the later reflections more considered even though she wrote at top speed in 1945 after the was liberated and before her memories faded. 'I remember everything as clearly as it it was written in notebooks' everything was recorded in memory and all she had to do was slowly turn the pages.

She worked in a factory spinning materials for uniforms for the German troops, often working a 12 hour shift, with little food and having to stand for hours, weak with fatigue

"My feet are absolute agony and we'll be standing here for hours. I have a brainwave. I ask permission to take off my awful shoes (my insteps are bleeding) and wrap my feet in the lengths of rayon that are scattered all round........the director on Anrath (the factory) is going to carry out an inspection and I was told I should stand to attention when he arrives....he stops in front of me asking me viciously why I have taken off my shoes. I explain. He replies: 'Very good you will be severely punished' and with that promise he leaves me'.

Despite all this Agnes makes sure that she causes the cotton to knot and break and does her best to carry out minor acts of sabotage which will cause maximum inconvenience. Later, when she is set to making boxes, once she has hammered in the nails, she makes sure she shears them off so that the crates will fall apart as soon as possible. Such actions continue throughout her five years and these small rebellions strengthen her will and help to keep her going even when her weight plummets and she is given the nickname 'Ghandi' as she is so bony and skeletal.

In this closed world, with teachers and professors working cheek by jowl with prostitutes and murderers, the solidarity and camaraderie among the prisoners assumes the importance of life saving proportions. Friendships of exceptional intensity are formed, generally between prisoners who hardly ever see each others faces and who have little time for intimate chat or gossip though at first Agnes had harsh words for the criminals with whom she was in such close proximity: 'Wretched faces, vicious and primitive, a collection of gallows birds, thieves, syphilitic prostitutes and murderers'.

Once liberation took place and the prisoners were all released by the incoming American army, Agnes embarked on important work with them. With her fluent German and English and her knowledge of the workings of the Nazi camp system, she made herself indispensable and In an amazingly short space of time her authority and energy restored, she was put in charge of administration of the town where they were billeted organising local prison camps, provision of shelter and food and first aid to refugees.

The rapidity with which she shed her identity as a political prisoner after four years of imprisonment is quite astounding and a tribute to her strength of personality and intelligence. After the war she became a founder and president of her local group of a left wing organisation Fighters for Freedom, and in 1949 was awarded the Croix de Guerre.

For many years this book Notre Guerre, was out of print and unobtainable though when it was first published in 1946 it caused quite a stir. It was one of the first books written about the Resistance and written while memories were fresh and, according to the Afterword, historians were immediately aware of this testimony and its value has continued to be recognised ever since.

I found Agnes' story to be profoundly moving, it took my breath away at times and also made me laugh, as she had a wicked sense of humour. Whenever I read a book such as this, and one that is a true story as well, I am staggered at the bravery displayed under fire. It makes me feel very humble and also makes me wonder just how I would behave and act if placed in such circumstances. I am thankful that I have never had to find out, but gosh a document such as this does make you think.

A truly wonderful book and I have no hesitation if giving it five stars. Do buy and read - you won't regret it.

A privilege to read, and a joy too, 01 Oct 2008
I've just finished reading this - a book I devoured almost without putting it down. That 112 year old can really write!

Henry Allingham is a fascinating character - the only man alive who saw the Grand Fleet steaming towards Jutland, and also the last of those who fought in the first air war in history. Mr. Allingham has a dry, self-deprecating style which is highly engaging. I was drawn into his autobiographical tale, almost as if he had been talking to me directly.

The narrative of this remarkable 112 year old is interspersed with short passages of historical scene-setting, filling in the background to Henry's story. Consequently they add rather than detract from the narrative.

The whole book is delightful - a personal narrative by an extremely personable old man. I've read several first-hand accounts by Great War veterans before, but this is in a league all of its own, both for the scope of Henry's story, and for the engaging way he tells it.

I can't recommend this book too highly.





A fitting account of our hero...Well done Henry. Fantastic!!!!, 29 Sep 2008
I just love to read these accounts of the life of a true hero that has lived through numerous decades and gives us an insight into the daily lives during each era. This book also gives us a birds eye view of life in the great war. If ever there was a book that should be read by everyone then this is it.
I would also recommend Harry Patch's book,"the last fighting tommy", with equal status.
These two fine books should sit alongside each other on every bookshelf across the country to be read time and time again.
Thank you Henry for giving us this account and it is a true hero that still talks with such compassion for his lost but never forgotten colleagues. Brothers in arms has never had more meaning.

INCREDIBLE TRUE STORY OF WAR IN AFGANISTAN!, 09 Oct 2008
What an incredible true story Ed Macy delivers in "Apache".Detailing the the harsh brutal realities of war in Afganistan and the incredible devotion and bravery our troops display daily.This book is a great read for those not interested in military matters as much as for those that are.Utterly compelling and the "Jugroom Fort" chapters are so engaging you'll not want to put the book down before you finish them.

Absolutely recommended.

AN ABSOLUTE STONKING SUPERB READ !!!, 09 Oct 2008
THIS HAS GOT TO BE ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS IVE READ , IT TOTALY PUTS YOU IN THE COCKPIT WITH ED , FANTASTIC , AMAZING ACCOUNT OF THE BATTLE THAT THE AIR CORP DOES ON A DAILY BASIS ,THE APACHE IS ONE MEAN BABY ! WOW !!!!!!

A Brilliant Debut!!, 28 Sep 2008
It's hard to comprehend, on reading Apache, that this is a debut book. Ed Macy writes with such confidence and skill it really brings home exactly what our troops are facing every day. Rarely does a book hold my attention from the first page to the last, but there's something about this book that makes you want to continue right to the end. This book has everything Hollywood blockbusters can only dream about. Romance, action, cheers and tears, I went through the whole range of emotions. This book is definately worth reading, at least twice!!

The standard all air warfare books should be set by., 27 Sep 2008
Having worked in the AH community since the Apache's inception into the British Armed forces this book has been a long time coming but it was certainly well worth the wait.Written with compassion and humour by an obviously very intelligent chap it took me back to my time in Helmland like a slap in the face and at times i had to put the book down to wipe away a tear and take in what i had just read.The descriptions of the aircraft strike the balance perfectly between technical awareness and laymans speak so even a non aviation type can read the book and come away with a good grasp of the aircraft and its systems.The greatest tribute i can give is that it has given great justice to the memory of mathew ford.I thank you ED for a Wizard read.

Astonishing, 21 Sep 2008
Having bought this book a week ago, and finishing it in less than a day, I suddenly realized I should write a few words about it. This book is absolutely fantastic, and provides you with all the information, and graphic descriptions you could ever want. The tales of courage are just outstanding and after reading this, I have decided that I am going to try out for AAC selection.
I highly recommend this book to all

The story of a True Heroine, 11 Sep 2008

When the German army invaded Paris in 1940, Agnes Humbert a strong minded, politically aware art historian, immediately knew that she had to 'do something', the thought of accepting the invasion was anathema to her and she helped to form one of the first organised groups of the French Resistance. The speed with which this was set up and began to operate was staggering. She had excellent contacts and friends in literary and journalistic circles and an underground newspaper, combating the German propaganda machine, was printed and circulated around Paris. It was simply amazing that they managed to keep this going and out of the hands of the authorities for nearly a year before they were betrayed and she was arrested and thrown into prison. Seven of the men who founded the group died by firing squad and Agnes, while escaping the death penalty, was sentenced to five years in a German labour camp.

She had kept a diary up to her imprisonment and she completed it after liberation in 1945. Unable to keep a written record of her experiences she recreated them afterwards, relying on her memory alone. This gives this fascinating book a contrast in writing, the earlier diary memories dashed down quickly on a daily basis, breathless and eager to get everything on paper as it happened; the later reflections more considered even though she wrote at top speed in 1945 after the was liberated and before her memories faded. 'I remember everything as clearly as it it was written in notebooks' everything was recorded in memory and all she had to do was slowly turn the pages.

She worked in a factory spinning materials for uniforms for the German troops, often working a 12 hour shift, with little food and having to stand for hours, weak with fatigue

"My feet are absolute agony and we'll be standing here for hours. I have a brainwave. I ask permission to take off my awful shoes (my insteps are bleeding) and wrap my feet in the lengths of rayon that are scattered all round........the director on Anrath (the factory) is going to carry out an inspection and I was told I should stand to attention when he arrives....he stops in front of me asking me viciously why I have taken off my shoes. I explain. He replies: 'Very good you will be severely punished' and with that promise he leaves me'.

Despite all this Agnes makes sure that she causes the cotton to knot and break and does her best to carry out minor acts of sabotage which will cause maximum inconvenience. Later, when she is set to making boxes, once she has hammered in the nails, she makes sure she shears them off so that the crates will fall apart as soon as possible. Such actions continue throughout her five years and these small rebellions strengthen her will and help to keep her going even when her weight plummets and she is given the nickname 'Ghandi' as she is so bony and skeletal.

In this closed world, with teachers and professors working cheek by jowl with prostitutes and murderers, the solidarity and camaraderie among the prisoners assumes the importance of life saving proportions. Friendships of exceptional intensity are formed, generally between prisoners who hardly ever see each others faces and who have little time for intimate chat or gossip though at first Agnes had harsh words for the criminals with whom she was in such close proximity: 'Wretched faces, vicious and primitive, a collection of gallows birds, thieves, syphilitic prostitutes and murderers'.

Once liberation took place and the prisoners were all released by the incoming American army, Agnes embarked on important work with them. With her fluent German and English and her knowledge of the workings of the Nazi camp system, she made herself indispensable and In an amazingly short space of time her authority and energy restored, she was put in charge of administration of the town where they were billeted organising local prison camps, provision of shelter and food and first aid to refugees.

The rapidity with which she shed her identity as a political prisoner after four years of imprisonment is quite astounding and a tribute to her strength of personality and intelligence. After the war she became a founder and president of her local group of a left wing organisation Fighters for Freedom, and in 1949 was awarded the Croix de Guerre.

For many years this book Notre Guerre, was out of print and unobtainable though when it was first published in 1946 it caused quite a stir. It was one of the first books written about the Resistance and written while memories were fresh and, according to the Afterword, historians were immediately aware of this testimony and its value has continued to be recognised ever since.

I found Agnes' story to be profoundly moving, it took my breath away at times and also made me laugh, as she had a wicked sense of humour. Whenever I read a book such as this, and one that is a true story as well, I am staggered at the bravery displayed under fire. It makes me feel very humble and also makes me wonder just how I would behave and act if placed in such circumstances. I am thankful that I have never had to find out, but gosh a document such as this does make you think.

A truly wonderful book and I have no hesitation if giving it five stars. Do buy and read - you won't regret it.

A privilege to read, and a joy too, 01 Oct 2008
I've just finished reading this - a book I devoured almost without putting it down. That 112 year old can really write!

Henry Allingham is a fascinating character - the only man alive who saw the Grand Fleet steaming towards Jutland, and also the last of those who fought in the first air war in history. Mr. Allingham has a dry, self-deprecating style which is highly engaging. I was drawn into his autobiographical tale, almost as if he had been talking to me directly.

The narrative of this remarkable 112 year old is interspersed with short passages of historical scene-setting, filling in the background to Henry's story. Consequently they add rather than detract from the narrative.

The whole book is delightful - a personal narrative by an extremely personable old man. I've read several first-hand accounts by Great War veterans before, but this is in a league all of its own, both for the scope of Henry's story, and for the engaging way he tells it.

I can't recommend this book too highly.





A fitting account of our hero...Well done Henry. Fantastic!!!!, 29 Sep 2008
I just love to read these accounts of the life of a true hero that has lived through numerous decades and gives us an insight into the daily lives during each era. This book also gives us a birds eye view of life in the great war. If ever there was a book that should be read by everyone then this is it.
I would also recommend Harry Patch's book,"the last fighting tommy", with equal status.
These two fine books should sit alongside each other on every bookshelf across the country to be read time and time again.
Thank you Henry for giving us this account and it is a true hero that still talks with such compassion for his lost but never forgotten colleagues. Brothers in arms has never had more meaning.

Another great slice of 40s life, 02 Oct 2008
If you enjoyed the original 'Nella Last's War' then you will enjoy this second volume just the same. The end of hostilities doesn't mean the end of either Nella's writing, or her talent with words and observation. It also certainly does not mean the end of hardship and difficulty. I drove to Barrow on the strength of the first diary and was very fortunate to meet the present owners of Nella's old house - they actually bought it off the Last family forty years ago. Just sitting in her old living room, where all those words had poured onto the page, brought Nella and her time tangibly closer. I heartily recommend this book.

INCREDIBLE TRUE STORY OF WAR IN AFGANISTAN!, 09 Oct 2008
What an incredible true story Ed Macy delivers in "Apache".Detailing the the harsh brutal realities of war in Afganistan and the incredible devotion and bravery our troops display daily.This book is a great read for those not interested in military matters as much as for those that are.Utterly compelling and the "Jugroom Fort" chapters are so engaging you'll not want to put the book down before you finish them.

Absolutely recommended.

AN ABSOLUTE STONKING SUPERB READ !!!, 09 Oct 2008
THIS HAS GOT TO BE ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS IVE READ , IT TOTALY PUTS YOU IN THE COCKPIT WITH ED , FANTASTIC , AMAZING ACCOUNT OF THE BATTLE THAT THE AIR CORP DOES ON A DAILY BASIS ,THE APACHE IS ONE MEAN BABY ! WOW !!!!!!

A Brilliant Debut!!, 28 Sep 2008
It's hard to comprehend, on reading Apache, that this is a debut book. Ed Macy writes with such confidence and skill it really brings home exactly what our troops are facing every day. Rarely does a book hold my attention from the first page to the last, but there's something about this book that makes you want to continue right to the end. This book has everything Hollywood blockbusters can only dream about. Romance, action, cheers and tears, I went through the whole range of emotions. This book is definately worth reading, at least twice!!

The standard all air warfare books should be set by., 27 Sep 2008
Having worked in the AH community since the Apache's inception into the British Armed forces this book has been a long time coming but it was certainly well worth the wait.Written with compassion and humour by an obviously very intelligent chap it took me back to my time in Helmland like a slap in the face and at times i had to put the book down to wipe away a tear and take in what i had just read.The descriptions of the aircraft strike the balance perfectly between technical awareness and laymans speak so even a non aviation type can read the book and come away with a good grasp of the aircraft and its systems.The greatest tribute i can give is that it has given great justice to the memory of mathew ford.I thank you ED for a Wizard read.

Astonishing, 21 Sep 2008
Having bought this book a week ago, and finishing it in less than a day, I suddenly realized I should write a few words about it. This book is absolutely fantastic, and provides you with all the information, and graphic descriptions you could ever want. The tales of courage are just outstanding and after reading this, I have decided that I am going to try out for AAC selection.
I highly recommend this book to all

The story of a True Heroine, 11 Sep 2008

When the German army invaded Paris in 1940, Agnes Humbert a strong minded, politically aware art historian, immediately knew that she had to 'do something', the thought of accepting the invasion was anathema to her and she helped to form one of the first organised groups of the French Resistance. The speed with which this was set up and began to operate was staggering. She had excellent contacts and friends in literary and journalistic circles and an underground newspaper, combating the German propaganda machine, was printed and circulated around Paris. It was simply amazing that they managed to keep this going and out of the hands of the authorities for nearly a year before they were betrayed and she was arrested and thrown into prison. Seven of the men who founded the group died by firing squad and Agnes, while escaping the death penalty, was sentenced to five years in a German labour camp.

She had kept a diary up to her imprisonment and she completed it after liberation in 1945. Unable to keep a written record of her experiences she recreated them afterwards, relying on her memory alone. This gives this fascinating book a contrast in writing, the earlier diary memories dashed down quickly on a daily basis, breathless and eager to get everything on paper as it happened; the later reflections more considered even though she wrote at top speed in 1945 after the was liberated and before her memories faded. 'I remember everything as clearly as it it was written in notebooks' everything was recorded in memory and all she had to do was slowly turn the pages.

She worked in a factory spinning materials for uniforms for the German troops, often working a 12 hour shift, with little food and having to stand for hours, weak with fatigue

"My feet are absolute agony and we'll be standing here for hours. I have a brainwave. I ask permission to take off my awful shoes (my insteps are bleeding) and wrap my feet in the lengths of rayon that are scattered all round........the director on Anrath (the factory) is going to carry out an inspection and I was told I should stand to attention when he arrives....he stops in front of me asking me viciously why I have taken off my shoes. I explain. He replies: 'Very good you will be severely punished' and with that promise he leaves me'.

Despite all this Agnes makes sure that she causes the cotton to knot and break and does her best to carry out minor acts of sabotage which will cause maximum inconvenience. Later, when she is set to making boxes, once she has hammered in the nails, she makes sure she shears them off so that the crates will fall apart as soon as possible. Such actions continue throughout her five years and these small rebellions strengthen her will and help to keep her going even when her weight plummets and she is given the nickname 'Ghandi' as she is so bony and skeletal.

In this closed world, with teachers and professors working cheek by jowl with prostitutes and murderers, the solidarity and camaraderie among the prisoners assumes the importance of life saving proportions. Friendships of exceptional intensity are formed, generally between prisoners who hardly ever see each others faces and who have little time for intimate chat or gossip though at first Agnes had harsh words for the criminals with whom she was in such close proximity: 'Wretched faces, vicious and primitive, a collection of gallows birds, thieves, syphilitic prostitutes and murderers'.

Once liberation took place and the prisoners were all released by the incoming American army, Agnes embarked on important work with them. With her fluent German and English and her knowledge of the workings of the Nazi camp system, she made herself indispensable and In an amazingly short space of time her authority and energy restored, she was put in charge of administration of the town where they were billeted organising local prison camps, provision of shelter and food and first aid to refugees.

The rapidity with which she shed her identity as a political prisoner after four years of imprisonment is quite astounding and a tribute to her strength of personality and intelligence. After the war she became a founder and president of her local group of a left wing organisation Fighters for Freedom, and in 1949 was awarded the Croix de Guerre.

For many years this book Notre Guerre, was out of print and unobtainable though when it was first published in 1946 it caused quite a stir. It was one of the first books written about the Resistance and written while memories were fresh and, according to the Afterword, historians were immediately aware of this testimony and its value has continued to be recognised ever since.

I found Agnes' story to be profoundly moving, it took my breath away at times and also made me laugh, as she had a wicked sense of humour. Whenever I read a book such as this, and one that is a true story as well, I am staggered at the bravery displayed under fire. It makes me feel very humble and also makes me wonder just how I would behave and act if placed in such circumstances. I am thankful that I have never had to find out, but gosh a document such as this does make you think.

A truly wonderful book and I have no hesitation if giving it five stars. Do buy and read - you won't regret it.

A privilege to read, and a joy too, 01 Oct 2008
I've just finished reading this - a book I devoured almost without putting it down. That 112 year old can really write!

Henry Allingham is a fascinating character - the only man alive who saw the Grand Fleet steaming towards Jutland, and also the last of those who fought in the first air war in history. Mr. Allingham has a dry, self-deprecating style which is highly engaging. I was drawn into his autobiographical tale, almost as if he had been talking to me directly.

The narrative of this remarkable 112 year old is interspersed with short passages of historical scene-setting, filling in the background to Henry's story. Consequently they add rather than detract from the narrative.

The whole book is delightful - a personal narrative by an extremely personable old man. I've read several first-hand accounts by Great War veterans before, but this is in a league all of its own, both for the scope of Henry's story, and for the engaging way he tells it.

I can't recommend this book too highly.





A fitting account of our hero...Well done Henry. Fantastic!!!!, 29 Sep 2008
I just love to read these accounts of the life of a true hero that has lived through numerous decades and gives us an insight into the daily lives during each era. This book also gives us a birds eye view of life in the great war. If ever there was a book that should be read by everyone then this is it.
I would also recommend Harry Patch's book,"the last fighting tommy", with equal status.
These two fine books should sit alongside each other on every bookshelf across the country to be read time and time again.
Thank you Henry for giving us this account and it is a true hero that still talks with such compassion for his lost but never forgotten colleagues. Brothers in arms has never had more meaning.

Another great slice of 40s life, 02 Oct 2008
If you enjoyed the original 'Nella Last's War' then you will enjoy this second volume just the same. The end of hostilities doesn't mean the end of either Nella's writing, or her talent with words and observation. It also certainly does not mean the end of hardship and difficulty. I drove to Barrow on the strength of the first diary and was very fortunate to meet the present owners of Nella's old house - they actually bought it off the Last family forty years ago. Just sitting in her old living room, where all those words had poured onto the page, brought Nella and her time tangibly closer. I heartily recommend this book.

Amazing real life account, 05 Oct 2008
A truly amazing book. Never have I read such a page turner and its fact not fiction. This book will blow your hair back, if you have even the vaguest interest in the Iraq war you should definitely read this.

The British Army hold a small compound in Al Amarah while the reconstruction teams being their work. Unfortunately they don't get very far before the local insurgency decide to declare all out war. The first major attack is repelled, but constant insurgency eventually force the army to hold up in their compound where over a 23-day period they took 595 mortar rounds from the insurgents, 57 RPG's, 5 107mm rockets and were attacked by many hundreds of OMS fighters. A single company, massively outnumbered managed (just) to hold out, and the story as told by Dan Mills, the lead sniper is breathtaking.

Fascinating, 04 Oct 2008
The best non-fiction modern 'war' book I've read in years. Took it on holiday & read it in 3 days. Unputdownable. Knocks spots off Bravo Two Zero (& that was bl@@dy good)

No brainer...buy it now., 04 Oct 2008
OMG! I cant believe this is only £3.99!!!! I spotted it in the airport on my way out on hols - but paid 3 times as much. Having read it though, I would pay that again! Much to my wifes disgust, I missed much of my holiday as I couldnt get my head out of it. A real eye opener that is fantastically written - gritty, shocking, informative, humorous, ( I couldnt stop laughing on the plane when he describes the over excited dog jumping in the pool!) and certainly makes you proud of 'our lads'.

Great read, 03 Oct 2008
One of those books you enjoy reading. Bought this to read on my 11 hour flight to Thailand and i was 3/4 through it by the time we landed in Bangkok. The skill and courage of these soldiers is amazing.

sniper one, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not great at describing things and i am sure as hell no jouralist. However, i'd recommend this book to anyone who wants to know what the realities of what our boys face out there on the front line really are. This book is fast paced from the start and if you are like me, you will have read the book from cover to cover in two days! One of the best books i have read in a long time.

INCREDIBLE TRUE STORY OF WAR IN AFGANISTAN!, 09 Oct 2008
What an incredible true story Ed Macy delivers in "Apache".Detailing the the harsh brutal realities of war in Afganistan and the incredible devotion and bravery our troops display daily.This book is a great read for those not interested in military matters as much as for those that are.Utterly compelling and the "Jugroom Fort" chapters are so engaging you'll not want to put the book down before you finish them.

Absolutely recommended.

AN ABSOLUTE STONKING SUPERB READ !!!, 09 Oct 2008
THIS HAS GOT TO BE ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS IVE READ , IT TOTALY PUTS YOU IN THE COCKPIT WITH ED , FANTASTIC , AMAZING ACCOUNT OF THE BATTLE THAT THE AIR CORP DOES ON A DAILY BASIS ,THE APACHE IS ONE MEAN BABY ! WOW !!!!!!

A Brilliant Debut!!, 28 Sep 2008
It's hard to comprehend, on reading Apache, that this is a debut book. Ed Macy writes with such confidence and skill it really brings home exactly what our troops are facing every day. Rarely does a book hold my attention from the first page to the last, but there's something about this book that makes you want to continue right to the end. This book has everything Hollywood blockbusters can only dream about. Romance, action, cheers and tears, I went through the whole range of emotions. This book is definately worth reading, at least twice!!

The standard all air warfare books should be set by., 27 Sep 2008
Having worked in the AH community since the Apache's inception into the British Armed forces this book has been a long time coming but it was certainly well worth the wait.Written with compassion and humour by an obviously very intelligent chap it took me back to my time in Helmland like a slap in the face and at times i had to put the book down to wipe away a tear and take in what i had just read.The descriptions of the aircraft strike the balance perfectly between technical awareness and laymans speak so even a non aviation type can read the book and come away with a good grasp of the aircraft and its systems.The greatest tribute i can give is that it has given great justice to the memory of mathew ford.I thank you ED for a Wizard read.

Astonishing, 21 Sep 2008
Having bought this book a week ago, and finishing it in less than a day, I suddenly realized I should write a few words about it. This book is absolutely fantastic, and provides you with all the information, and graphic descriptions you could ever want. The tales of courage are just outstanding and after reading this, I have decided that I am going to try out for AAC selection.
I highly recommend this book to all

The story of a True Heroine, 11 Sep 2008

When the German army invaded Paris in 1940, Agnes Humbert a strong minded, politically aware art historian, immediately knew that she had to 'do something', the thought of accepting the invasion was anathema to her and she helped to form one of the first organised groups of the French Resistance. The speed with which this was set up and began to operate was staggering. She had excellent contacts and friends in literary and journalistic circles and an underground newspaper, combating the German propaganda machine, was printed and circulated around Paris. It was simply amazing that they managed to keep this going and out of the hands of the authorities for nearly a year before they were betrayed and she was arrested and thrown into prison. Seven of the men who founded the group died by firing squad and Agnes, while escaping the death penalty, was sentenced to five years in a German labour camp.

She had kept a diary up to her imprisonment and she completed it after liberation in 1945. Unable to keep a written record of her experiences she recreated them afterwards, relying on her memory alone. This gives this fascinating book a contrast in writing, the earlier diary memories dashed down quickly on a daily basis, breathless and eager to get everything on paper as it happened; the later reflections more considered even though she wrote at top speed in 1945 after the was liberated and before her memories faded. 'I remember everything as clearly as it it was written in notebooks' everything was recorded in memory and all she had to do was slowly turn the pages.

She worked in a factory spinning materials for uniforms for the German troops, often working a 12 hour shift, with little food and having to stand for hours, weak with fatigue

"My feet are absolute agony and we'll be standing here for hours. I have a brainwave. I ask permission to take off my awful shoes (my insteps are bleeding) and wrap my feet in the lengths of rayon that are scattered all round........the director on Anrath (the factory) is going to carry out an inspection and I was told I should stand to attention when he arrives....he stops in front of me asking me viciously why I have taken off my shoes. I explain. He replies: 'Very good you will be severely punished' and with that promise he leaves me'.

Despite all this Agnes makes sure that she causes the cotton to knot and break and does her best to carry out minor acts of sabotage which will cause maximum inconvenience. Later, when she is set to making boxes, once she has hammered in the nails, she makes sure she shears them off so that the crates will fall apart as soon as possible. Such actions continue throughout her five years and these small rebellions strengthen her will and help to keep her going even when her weight plummets and she is given the nickname 'Ghandi' as she is so bony and skeletal.

In this closed world, with teachers and professors working cheek by jowl with prostitutes and murderers, the solidarity and camaraderie among the prisoners assumes the importance of life saving proportions. Friendships of exceptional intensity are formed, generally between prisoners who hardly ever see each others faces and who have little time for intimate chat or gossip though at first Agnes had harsh words for the criminals with whom she was in such close proximity: 'Wretched faces, vicious and primitive, a collection of gallows birds, thieves, syphilitic prostitutes and murderers'.

Once liberation took place and the prisoners were all released by the incoming American army, Agnes embarked on important work with them. With her fluent German and English and her knowledge of the workings of the Nazi camp system, she made herself indispensable and In an amazingly short space of time her authority and energy restored, she was put in charge of administration of the town where they were billeted organising local prison camps, provision of shelter and food and first aid to refugees.

The rapidity with which she shed her identity as a political prisoner after four years of imprisonment is quite astounding and a tribute to her strength of personality and intelligence. After the war she became a founder and president of her local group of a left wing organisation Fighters for Freedom, and in 1949 was awarded the Croix de Guerre.

For many years this book Notre Guerre, was out of print and unobtainable though when it was first published in 1946 it caused quite a stir. It was one of the first books written about the Resistance and written while memories were fresh and, according to the Afterword, historians were immediately aware of this testimony and its value has continued to be recognised ever since.

I found Agnes' story to be profoundly moving, it took my breath away at times and also made me laugh, as she had a wicked sense of humour. Whenever I read a book such as this, and one that is a true story as well, I am staggered at the bravery displayed under fire. It makes me feel very humble and also makes me wonder just how I would behave and act if placed in such circumstances. I am thankful that I have never had to find out, but gosh a document such as this does make you think.

A truly wonderful book and I have no hesitation if giving it five stars. Do buy and read - you won't regret it.

A privilege to read, and a joy too, 01 Oct 2008
I've just finished reading this - a book I devoured almost without putting it down. That 112 year old can really write!

Henry Allingham is a fascinating character - the only man alive who saw the Grand Fleet steaming towards Jutland, and also the last of those who fought in the first air war in history. Mr. Allingham has a dry, self-deprecating style which is highly engaging. I was drawn into his autobiographical tale, almost as if he had been talking to me directly.

The narrative of this remarkable 112 year old is interspersed with short passages of historical scene-setting, filling in the background to Henry's story. Consequently they add rather than detract from the narrative.

The whole book is delightful - a personal narrative by an extremely personable old man. I've read several first-hand accounts by Great War veterans before, but this is in a league all of its own, both for the scope of Henry's story, and for the engaging way he tells it.

I can't recommend this book too highly.





A fitting account of our hero...Well done Henry. Fantastic!!!!, 29 Sep 2008
I just love to read these accounts of the life of a true hero that has lived through numerous decades and gives us an insight into the daily lives during each era. This book also gives us a birds eye view of life in the great war. If ever there was a book that should be read by everyone then this is it.
I would also recommend Harry Patch's book,"the last fighting tommy", with equal status.
These two fine books should sit alongside each other on every bookshelf across the country to be read time and time again.
Thank you Henry for giving us this account and it is a true hero that still talks with such compassion for his lost but never forgotten colleagues. Brothers in arms has never had more meaning.

Another great slice of 40s life, 02 Oct 2008
If you enjoyed the original 'Nella Last's War' then you will enjoy this second volume just the same. The end of hostilities doesn't mean the end of either Nella's writing, or her talent with words and observation. It also certainly does not mean the end of hardship and difficulty. I drove to Barrow on the strength of the first diary and was very fortunate to meet the present owners of Nella's old house - they actually bought it off the Last family forty years ago. Just sitting in her old living room, where all those words had poured onto the page, brought Nella and her time tangibly closer. I heartily recommend this book.

Amazing real life account, 05 Oct 2008
A truly amazing book. Never have I read such a page turner and its fact not fiction. This book will blow your hair back, if you have even the vaguest interest in the Iraq war you should definitely read this.

The British Army hold a small compound in Al Amarah while the reconstruction teams being their work. Unfortunately they don't get very far before the local insurgency decide to declare all out war. The first major attack is repelled, but constant insurgency eventually force the army to hold up in their compound where over a 23-day period they took 595 mortar rounds from the insurgents, 57 RPG's, 5 107mm rockets and were attacked by many hundreds of OMS fighters. A single company, massively outnumbered managed (just) to hold out, and the story as told by Dan Mills, the lead sniper is breathtaking.

Fascinating, 04 Oct 2008
The best non-fiction modern 'war' book I've read in years. Took it on holiday & read it in 3 days. Unputdownable. Knocks spots off Bravo Two Zero (& that was bl@@dy good)

No brainer...buy it now., 04 Oct 2008
OMG! I cant believe this is only £3.99!!!! I spotted it in the airport on my way out on hols - but paid 3 times as much. Having read it though, I would pay that again! Much to my wifes disgust, I missed much of my holiday as I couldnt get my head out of it. A real eye opener that is fantastically written - gritty, shocking, informative, humorous, ( I couldnt stop laughing on the plane when he describes the over excited dog jumping in the pool!) and certainly makes you proud of 'our lads'.

Great read, 03 Oct 2008
One of those books you enjoy reading. Bought this to read on my 11 hour flight to Thailand and i was 3/4 through it by the time we landed in Bangkok. The skill and courage of these soldiers is amazing.

sniper one, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not great at describing things and i am sure as hell no jouralist. However, i'd recommend this book to anyone who wants to know what the realities of what our boys face out there on the front line really are. This book is fast paced from the start and if you are like me, you will have read the book from cover to cover in two days! One of the best books i have read in a long time.

One of THE most important works ever written, 25 Aug 2007
This masterpiece of reasoning and good practical handbook on how to get ahead in real life if you happen to be already a man of some means, was a work of great humanity in an age when humanity was still considered disgusting and subserviant to the Lord above and his chosen servants on Earth. What a shot across the bows to all those religious hypocrites and Bible following automatons this must have been, then. Two elements surrounding this work's brave publication are crucial, I feel: One being that this was Italy, (as it became) and at its advanced stage of the great Renaissance, as we now know it, and the second being that it was written at a time which was just right to be publishing order challenging controversial works. After seeing the liberal benefits to man that the use of the printing press had brought, and the world of possibilities it offered, Machiavelli struck the first blow against the stifling and corrupt order of the age.

His publication of political thought and theory which was refreshingly devoid of religious dogma or even quotations, preceded the publication of that other world changing document by three or four years: Luther's pinning of the ninety five thesis to a Church door a few hundred miles north in an area still ruled by edicts pumped out by prelates living closer to Machiavelli. This was exactly the right time to be reaching the learned men of the world with anything revolutionary in tone, and well presented and researched contradictions of established thought were very lible to strike a chord with many. In other words, many people by this time had clearly had all they could stomach of the seething hypocrisy they witnessed being displayed by the Lord's own servants, in the church and consequently in the monarchy led governments of the age. To be spouting their harsh godfearing edicts out to the uneducated masses when the vast majority of them enjoyed the sins they were loudly proscribing the common populace from having, was all a bit rich for certain educated but strong minded men like Machiavelli and Luther. The time was very ripe for a wind of change, and even the corrupt but mighty church of Rome knew it, and feared it.

Machievelli simply took a different line to Luther, perhaps not least because he was far more used to living with these ruler's inconsistencies than the more morally outraged teutonic man of God was. Where Luther got all spiritual and quoted the many edicts from scripture that the church of Rome was blatantly abusing, Machiavelli simply plotted the practical lines for a prostective leader of state to follow, quoting the works of historians and statesmen who had written about both the world's most successful leaders and its least successful leaders, as a practical handbook on how to be a successful head of state. Both of their actions though were brave, and both of them catastrophic to the cosy order of things and to the power of the once mighty Catholic Church. Humanity owes both of these great men an enormous debt, for their brave and insightful works helped breathe a real wind of change to the way the human race had been living.

The virtues of Machiavelli, 03 Feb 2005
In the course of my political science training, I studied at great length the modern idea of realpolitik. In that study I came to realise that it was somewhat incomplete, without the companionship of The Prince, by Niccolo Machiavelli, a Florentine governmental official in the late fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries. The Prince is an oft quoted, oft mis-quoted work, used as the philosophical underpinning for much of what is considered both pragmatic and wrong in politics today. To describe someone as being Machiavellian is to attribute to the person ruthless ambition, craftiness and merciless political tactics. Being believed to be Machiavellian is generally politically incorrect. Being Machiavellian, alas, can often be politically expedient.

Machiavelli based his work in The Prince upon his basic understanding of human nature. He held that people are motivated by fear and envy, by novelty, by desire for wealth, power and security, and by a hatred of restriction. In the Italy in which he was writing, democracy was an un-implemented Greek philosophical idea, not a political structure with a history of success; thus, one person's power usually involved the limitation of another person's power in an autocratic way.

Machiavelli did not see this as a permanent or natural state of being -- in fact, he felt that, during his age, human nature had been corrupted and reduced from a loftier nobility achieved during the golden ages of Greece and Rome. He decided that it was the corrupting influence of Christianity that had reduced human nature, by its exaltation of meekness, humility, and otherworldliness.

Machiavelli has a great admiration for the possible and potential, but finds himself inexorably drawn to the practical, dealing with situations as they are, thus becoming an early champion of realpolitik carried forward into this century by the likes of Kissinger, Thatcher, Nixon, and countless others. One of the innovations of Machiavelli's thought was the recognition that the prince, the leader of the city/state/empire/etc., was nonetheless a human being, and subject to all the human limitations and desires with which all contend.

Because the average prince (like the average person) is likely to be focussed upon his own interests, a prince's private interests are generally in opposition to those of his subjects. Fortunate is the kingdom ruled by a virtuous prince, virtue here not defined by Christian or religious tenets, but rather the civic virtue of being able to pursue his own interests without conflicting those of his subjects.

Virtue is that which increases power; vice is that which decreases power. These follow Machiavelli's assumptions about human nature. Machiavelli rejected the Platonic idea of a division between what a prince does and what a prince ought to do. The two principle instruments of the prince are force and propaganda, and the prince, in order to increase power (virtue) ought to employ force completely and ruthlessly, and propaganda wisely, backed up by force. Of course, for Machiavelli, the chief propaganda vehicle is that of religion.

Whoever reads Roman history attentively will see in how great a degree religion served in the command of the armies, in uniting the people and keeping them well conducted, and in covering the wicked with shame.

Machiavelli has been credited with giving ruthless strategies (the example of a new political ruler killing the deposed ruler and the ruler's family to prevent usurpation and plotting is well known) -- it is hard to enact many in current politics in a literal way, but many of his strategies can still be seen in electioneering at every level, in national and international relations, and even in corporate and family internal 'politics'. In fact, I have found fewer more Machiavellian types than in church politics!

Of course, these people would be considered 'virtuous' in Machiavellian terms -- doing what is necessary to increase power and authority.

The title of this piece -- the virtues of Machiavelli, must be considered in this frame; certainly in no way virtuous by current standards, but then, it shows, not all have the same standards. Be careful of the words you use -- they may have differing definitions.

Perhaps if Machiavelli had lived a bit later, and been informed by the general rise of science as a rational underpinning to the world, he might have been able to accept less of a degree of randomness in the universe. Perhaps he would have modified his views. Perhaps not -- after all, the realpolitikers of this age are aware of the scientific framework of the universe, and still pursue their courses.

This is an important work, intriguing in many respects. Far shorter than the average classical or medieval philosophical tome, and more accessible by current readers because of a greater familiarity with politics than, say, metaphysics or epistemology, this work yields benefits and insights to all who read, mark, inwardly digest, and critically examine the precepts.

Ruthless, 28 Oct 2004
The Prince... well its difficult to describe exactly what it entails. I think to start with all who consider going into politics or any kind of management role should be handed a copy of this book at the same time as they recieve their application forms. It is ruthless but efficient also and so its central premises should always be remembered, particularly by our governing bodies.
Machiavelli writes with a self assurance which is refreshing in an age of hesitation and self correction.
I'm not convinced that this was a life changing book for me to read, it certainly affected my attitudes and values but is not a inspirational self help book (not that its supposed to be).
I recommend this to anyone who has an interest in history or in politics.

A prince among men., 14 Oct 2003
Machiavelli's realisation of the true nature of men as "...fickle,lying,cowards..." leads him in his brilliantly astute work to illuminate the realities of government and life in general.
Disregarding all political theorie's and ideaoligies machiavelli refreshingly deals with how things are and not how they should.
While on first glance machiavellis work would seem almost evil in its implications as it has been labeled countless times, a deeper look would show it to be more humane and considerate of human wellbeing then any half baked political ideology (communism, Republicanism,democracy etc). His assertion that the ends justifies the means is a good demonstration of this as Machiavelli demonstrates through historical analogies the truth of life in general: for people to prosper others have to suffer. In truthfully explaining this and insisting it be done quickly and totaly for it to be over and done with machiavelli shows a level of compasion far greater than any bleeding hearted liberal vegaterian (the most likely to be opposed to his assertions)
His work while being what many would labels as deeply cinical is niether cinical nor idealogical but an honest assesment of life in general as well as politics, which cannot help but uplift those of the same frame of mind with the comfort of nowing that the realisation that the world is a very unhappy place is not theres alone.
But if you truly believe in the hollywood view of the world in which love is blind and happy endings happen for every one than don't read this book (ignorance is bliss).

ONE OF THE TEN BEST BOOKS EVER, 25 Jul 2003
Here are some BASIC, UTMOST IMPORTANT and UNIVERSAL REMARKS for those that start reading Niccolò Machiavelli, be it IL PRINCIPE or his DISCORSI SOPRA LA PRIMA DECA DI TITO LIVIO, better known as "The DISCOURSES", giving a very original political comment on the first ten books of Titus Livius.
** Machiavelli's IDEA'S are NOT a close-fitting nor a rounded down system: who thinks elsehow will get into overlasting problems.
** The "Secretarius Florentinus" is NOT a SYSTEMATIC philosopher in the scholastic sense of the word: he DOESN'T WORRY whether the question or idea he describes is IN CONCORDANCE with notions or opinions written down elsewhere. Therefore lots of statements can but difficultly be brought in accordance to the former AND can even bring CRITICISM INTO TROUBLE. This is of far lesser importance while these incongruities are merely touching the general points of departure of his work, instead of the distinct parts of his arguments. You can notice this through his LOGIC (as strong as iron!!) and an IRREFUTABLE CONSEQUENCE.
** Machiavelli stays A-MORAL in Il Principe, just as nature is: not judging about good and bad, not influenced by a religion or anything else!! I know people have problems with this last "way of writing, thinking", BUT this is the most important factor that makes his work so IMMENSELY UNIVERSAL ...

There are TWO CENTRAL THEMES in this work: POLITICS and THE PROBLEMS THAT ARE CONNECTED WITH THE NOTION, THE CONCEPT "POWER".

The Prince is a flaming and militant political piece of writing in which the author is not only rationally, but also emotionally 'present' with the full power of his personality. Machiavelli's ideas are closely related to the general philosophical concept of the Renaissance. His vision too is antropocentric: the only right to exist man has, is present in man himself AND in the realisation of the self in this world.
The author is the FOUNDER of the political science(s): nobody before him had considered that politics are a single, separate science, free of any moral or religion.
In his system he isolates the technical bias (read: orientation) on what is politically useful from the moral and theological aspect of kindness and justice. He defines sharply THE PURPOSE that one wants to reach, to achieve and THEN, starting from the situation in which a (the) person stands, WEIGHS UP THE PROS AND CONS (on a rational-technical basis) OF THE MEANS THAT LEAD TO THE PURPOSE, WHICH MEANS THOSE "ARE", DOES NOT MATTER ( = AMORAL). A means of reason that is MORALLY BAD, can be GOOD FOR POLITICS and VICE VERSA ... !

Instead of talking about The Prince, it is only correct to use the word RULER: the crucial person in this work. For Macchiavelli it was Cesare BORGIA, for Nietzsche it was NAPOLEON, who REALLY slept with Il Principe (he understood the book very well).
Too many readers are misled by words as 'fortune, virtue': in the Middle-Italian (very difficult, even for specialists) the author uses the words 'FORTUNA' and 'VIRTÙ': these two words (f.e.) have NOTHING OF LITTLE IN COMMON with fortune and virtue or virtus. There are about 23 POSSIBLE TRANSLATIONS FOR THE WORD 'VIRTÙ'...

To be a good ruler is not easy. In 26 short chapters the biggest philosopher of the 16th century, Macchiavelli, describes what the ruler can and/or should do ... to stay 'the ruler', not to lose the power he/she has, in absence of moral and religion: amoral! THAT IS DIFFICULT TO MAINTAIN: JUST LOOK AROUND, LISTEN TO THE NEWS, THINK ABOUT GLOBAL PROBLEMS: EVERYWHERE YOU'LL MEET NICCOLÃ’ MACCHIAVELLI, WAVING WITH HIS HAND TO YOU AND TRYING TO MAKE YOU AND US FREE FROM PREJUDICES, WHISPERING WHAT WE SHOULD DO OR NOT.

I have read several editions of 'THE PRINCE', but have only one that stays with me since decades now: I read and keep on reading about our ruler forever, so my book will stay with me too.
LAST NOTE: The saying "The end justifies the means" is NOT from Macchiavelli; it already existed for a few centuries.

INCREDIBLE TRUE STORY OF WAR IN AFGANISTAN!, 09 Oct 2008
What an incredible true story Ed Macy delivers in "Apache".Detailing the the harsh brutal realities of war in Afganistan and the incredible devotion and bravery our troops display daily.This book is a great read for those not interested in military matters as much as for those that are.Utterly compelling and the "Jugroom Fort" chapters are so engaging you'll not want to put the book down before you finish them.

Absolutely recommended.

AN ABSOLUTE STONKING SUPERB READ !!!, 09 Oct 2008
THIS HAS GOT TO BE ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS IVE READ , IT TOTALY PUTS YOU IN THE COCKPIT WITH ED , FANTASTIC , AMAZING ACCOUNT OF THE BATTLE THAT THE AIR CORP DOES ON A DAILY BASIS ,THE APACHE IS ONE MEAN BABY ! WOW !!!!!!

A Brilliant Debut!!, 28 Sep 2008
It's hard to comprehend, on reading Apache, that this is a debut book. Ed Macy writes with such confidence and skill it really brings home exactly what our troops are facing every day. Rarely does a book hold my attention from the first page to the last, but there's something about this book that makes you want to continue right to the end. This book has everything Hollywood blockbusters can only dream about. Romance, action, cheers and tears, I went through the whole range of emotions. This book is definately worth reading, at least twice!!

The standard all air warfare books should be set by., 27 Sep 2008
Having worked in the AH community since the Apache's inception into the British Armed forces this book has been a long time coming but it was certainly well worth the wait.Written with compassion and humour by an obviously very intelligent chap it took me back to my time in Helmland like a slap in the face and at times i had to put the book down to wipe away a tear and take in what i had just read.The descriptions of the aircraft strike the balance perfectly between technical awareness and laymans speak so even a non aviation type can read the book and come away with a good grasp of the aircraft and its systems.The greatest tribute i can give is that it has given great justice to the memory of mathew ford.I thank you ED for a Wizard read.

Astonishing, 21 Sep 2008
Having bought this book a week ago, and finishing it in less than a day, I suddenly realized I should write a few words about it. This book is absolutely fantastic, and provides you with all the information, and graphic descriptions you could ever want. The tales of courage are just outstanding and after reading this, I have decided that I am going to try out for AAC selection.
I highly recommend this book to all

The story of a True Heroine, 11 Sep 2008

When the German army invaded Paris in 1940, Agnes Humbert a strong minded, politically aware art historian, immediately knew that she had to 'do something', the thought of accepting the invasion was anathema to her and she helped to form one of the first organised groups of the French Resistance. The speed with which this was set up and began to operate was staggering. She had excellent contacts and friends in literary and journalistic circles and an underground newspaper, combating the German propaganda machine, was printed and circulated around Paris. It was simply amazing that they managed to keep this going and out of the hands of the authorities for nearly a year before they were betrayed and she was arrested and thrown into prison. Seven of the men who founded the group died by firing squad and Agnes, while escaping the death penalty, was sentenced to five years in a German labour camp.

She had kept a diary up to her imprisonment and she completed it after liberation in 1945. Unable to keep a written record of her experiences she recreated them afterwards, relying on her memory alone. This gives this fascinating book a contrast in writing, the earlier diary memories dashed down quickly on a daily basis, breathless and eager to get everything on paper as it happened; the later reflections more considered even though she wrote at top speed in 1945 after the was liberated and before her memories faded. 'I remember everything as clearly as it it was written in notebooks' everything was recorded in memory and all she had to do was slowly turn the pages.

She worked in a factory spinning materials for uniforms for the German troops, often working a 12 hour shift, with little food and having to stand for hours, weak with fatigue

"My feet are absolute agony and we'll be standing here for hours. I have a brainwave. I ask permission to take off my awful shoes (my insteps are bleeding) and wrap my feet in the lengths of rayon that are scattered all round........the director on Anrath (the factory) is going to carry out an inspection and I was told I should stand to attention when he arrives....he stops in front of me asking me viciously why I have taken off my shoes. I explain. He replies: 'Very good you will be severely punished' and with that promise he leaves me'.

Despite all this Agnes makes sure that she causes the cotton to knot and break and does her best to carry out minor acts of sabotage which will cause maximum inconvenience. Later, when she is set to making boxes, once she has hammered in the nails, she makes sure she shears them off so that the crates will fall apart as soon as possible. Such actions continue throughout her five years and these small rebellions strengthen her will and help to keep her going even when her weight plummets and she is given the nickname 'Ghandi' as she is so bony and skeletal.

In this closed world, with teachers and professors working cheek by jowl with prostitutes and murderers, the solidarity and camaraderie among the prisoners assumes the importance of life saving proportions. Friendships of exceptional intensity are formed, generally between prisoners who hardly ever see each others faces and who have little time for intimate chat or gossip though at first Agnes had harsh words for the criminals with whom she was in such close proximity: 'Wretched faces, vicious and primitive, a collection of gallows birds, thieves, syphilitic prostitutes and murderers'.

Once liberation took place and the prisoners were all released by the incoming American army, Agnes embarked on important work with them. With her fluent German and English and her knowledge of the workings of the Nazi camp system, she made herself indispensable and In an amazingly short space of time her authority and energy restored, she was put in charge of administration of the town where they were billeted organising local prison camps, provision of shelter and food and first aid to refugees.

The rapidity with which she shed her identity as a political prisoner after four years of imprisonment is quite astounding and a tribute to her strength of personality and intelligence. After the war she became a founder and president of her local group of a left wing organisation Fighters for Freedom, and in 1949 was awarded the Croix de Guerre.

For many years this book Notre Guerre, was out of print and unobtainable though when it was first published in 1946 it caused quite a stir. It was one of the first books written about the Resistance and written while memories were fresh and, according to the Afterword, historians were immediately aware of this testimony and its value has continued to be recognised ever since.

I found Agnes' story to be profoundly moving, it took my breath away at times and also made me laugh, as she had a wicked sense of humour. Whenever I read a book such as this, and one that is a true story as well, I am staggered at the bravery displayed under fire. It makes me feel very humble and also makes me wonder just how I would behave and act if placed in such circumstances. I am thankful that I have never had to find out, but gosh a document such as this does make you think.

A truly wonderful book and I have no hesitation if giving it five stars. Do buy and read - you won't regret it.

A privilege to read, and a joy too, 01 Oct 2008
I've just finished reading this - a book I devoured almost without putting it down. That 112 year old can really write!

Henry Allingham is a fascinating character - the only man alive who saw the Grand Fleet steaming towards Jutland, and also the last of those who fought in the first air war in history. Mr. Allingham has a dry, self-deprecating style which is highly engaging. I was drawn into his autobiographical tale, almost as if he had been talking to me directly.

The narrative of this remarkable 112 year old is interspersed with short passages of historical scene-setting, filling in the background to Henry's story. Consequently they add rather than detract from the narrative.

The whole book is delightful - a personal narrative by an extremely personable old man. I've read several first-hand accounts by Great War veterans before, but this is in a league all of its own, both for the scope of Henry's story, and for the engaging way he tells it.

I can't recommend this book too highly.





A fitting account of our hero...Well done Henry. Fantastic!!!!, 29 Sep 2008
I just love to read these accounts of the life of a true hero that has lived through numerous decades and gives us an insight into the daily lives during each era. This book also gives us a birds eye view of life in the great war. If ever there was a book that should be read by everyone then this is it.
I would also recommend Harry Patch's book,"the last fighting tommy", with equal status.
These two fine books should sit alongside each other on every bookshelf across the country to be read time and time again.
Thank you Henry for giving us this account and it is a true hero that still talks with such compassion for his lost but never forgotten colleagues. Brothers in arms has never had more meaning.

Another great slice of 40s life, 02 Oct 2008
If you enjoyed the original 'Nella Last's War' then you will enjoy this second volume just the same. The end of hostilities doesn't mean the end of either Nella's writing, or her talent with words and observation. It also certainly does not mean the end of hardship and difficulty. I drove to Barrow on the strength of the first diary and was very fortunate to meet the present owners of Nella's old house - they actually bought it off the Last family forty years ago. Just sitting in her old living room, where all those words had poured onto the page, brought Nella and her time tangibly closer. I heartily recommend this book.

Amazing real life account, 05 Oct 2008
A truly amazing book. Never have I read such a page turner and its fact not fiction. This book will blow your hair back, if you have even the vaguest interest in the Iraq war you should definitely read this.

The British Army hold a small compound in Al Amarah while the reconstruction teams being their work. Unfortunately they don't get very far before the local insurgency decide to declare all out war. The first major attack is repelled, but constant insurgency eventually force the army to hold up in their compound where over a 23-day period they took 595 mortar rounds from the insurgents, 57 RPG's, 5 107mm rockets and were attacked by many hundreds of OMS fighters. A single company, massively outnumbered managed (just) to hold out, and the story as told by Dan Mills, the lead sniper is breathtaking.

Fascinating, 04 Oct 2008
The best non-fiction modern 'war' book I've read in years. Took it on holiday & read it in 3 days. Unputdownable. Knocks spots off Bravo Two Zero (& that was bl@@dy good)

No brainer...buy it now., 04 Oct 2008
OMG! I cant believe this is only £3.99!!!! I spotted it in the airport on my way out on hols - but paid 3 times as much. Having read it though, I would pay that again! Much to my wifes disgust, I missed much of my holiday as I couldnt get my head out of it. A real eye opener that is fantastically written - gritty, shocking, informative, humorous, ( I couldnt stop laughing on the plane when he describes the over excited dog jumping in the pool!) and certainly makes you proud of 'our lads'.

Great read, 03 Oct 2008
One of those books you enjoy reading. Bought this to read on my 11 hour flight to Thailand and i was 3/4 through it by the time we landed in Bangkok. The skill and courage of these soldiers is amazing.

sniper one, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not great at describing things and i am sure as hell no jouralist. However, i'd recommend this book to anyone who wants to know what the realities of what our boys face out there on the front line really are. This book is fast paced from the start and if you are like me, you will have read the book from cover to cover in two days! One of the best books i have read in a long time.

One of THE most important works ever written, 25 Aug 2007
This masterpiece of reasoning and good practical handbook on how to get ahead in real life if you happen to be already a man of some means, was a work of great humanity in an age when humanity was still considered disgusting and subserviant to the Lord above and his chosen servants on Earth. What a shot across the bows to all those religious hypocrites and Bible following automatons this must have been, then. Two elements surrounding this work's brave publication are crucial, I feel: One being that this was Italy, (as it became) and at its advanced stage of the great Renaissance, as we now know it, and the second being that it was written at a time which was just right to be publishing order challenging controversial works. After seeing the liberal benefits to man that the use of the printing press had brought, and the world of possibilities it offered, Machiavelli struck the first blow against the stifling and corrupt order of the age.

His publication of political thought and theory which was refreshingly devoid of religious dogma or even quotations, preceded the publication of that other world changing document by three or four years: Luther's pinning of the ninety five thesis to a Church door a few hundred miles north in an area still ruled by edicts pumped out by prelates living closer to Machiavelli. This was exactly the right time to be reaching the learned men of the world with anything revolutionary in tone, and well presented and researched contradictions of established thought were very lible to strike a chord with many. In other words, many people by this time had clearly had all they could stomach of the seething hypocrisy they witnessed being displayed by the Lord's own servants, in the church and consequently in the monarchy led governments of the age. To be spouting their harsh godfearing edicts out to the uneducated masses when the vast majority of them enjoyed the sins they were loudly proscribing the common populace from having, was all a bit rich for certain educated but strong minded men like Machiavelli and Luther. The time was very ripe for a wind of change, and even the corrupt but mighty church of Rome knew it, and feared it.

Machievelli simply took a different line to Luther, perhaps not least because he was far more used to living with these ruler's inconsistencies than the more morally outraged teutonic man of God was. Where Luther got all spiritual and quoted the many edicts from scripture that the church of Rome was blatantly abusing, Machiavelli simply plotted the practical lines for a prostective leader of state to follow, quoting the works of historians and statesmen who had written about both the world's most successful leaders and its least successful leaders, as a practical handbook on how to be a successful head of state. Both of their actions though were brave, and both of them catastrophic to the cosy order of things and to the power of the once mighty Catholic Church. Humanity owes both of these great men an enormous debt, for their brave and insightful works helped breathe a real wind of change to the way the human race had been living.

The virtues of Machiavelli, 03 Feb 2005
In the course of my political science training, I studied at great length the modern idea of realpolitik. In that study I came to realise that it was somewhat incomplete, without the companionship of The Prince, by Niccolo Machiavelli, a Florentine governmental official in the late fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries. The Prince is an oft quoted, oft mis-quoted work, used as the philosophical underpinning for much of what is considered both pragmatic and wrong in politics today. To describe someone as being Machiavellian is to attribute to the person ruthless ambition, craftiness and merciless political tactics. Being believed to be Machiavellian is generally politically incorrect. Being Machiavellian, alas, can often be politically expedient.

Machiavelli based his work in The Prince upon his basic understanding of human nature. He held that people are motivated by fear and envy, by novelty, by desire for wealth, power and security, and by a hatred of restriction. In the Italy in which he was writing, democracy was an un-implemented Greek philosophical idea, not a political structure with a history of success; thus, one person's power usually involved the limitation of another person's power in an autocratic way.

Machiavelli did not see this as a permanent or natural state of being -- in fact, he felt that, during his age, human nature had been corrupted and reduced from a loftier nobility achieved during the golden ages of Greece and Rome. He decided that it was the corrupting influence of Christianity that had reduced human nature, by its exaltation of meekness, humility, and otherworldliness.

Machiavelli has a great admiration for the possible and potential, but finds himself inexorably drawn to the practical, dealing with situations as they are, thus becoming an early champion of realpolitik carried forward into this century by the likes of Kissinger, Thatcher, Nixon, and countless others. One of the innovations of Machiavelli's thought was the recognition that the prince, the leader of the city/state/empire/etc., was nonetheless a human being, and subject to all the human limitations and desires with which all contend.

Because the average prince (like the average person) is likely to be focussed upon his own interests, a prince's private interests are generally in opposition to those of his subjects. Fortunate is the kingdom ruled by a virtuous prince, virtue here not defined by Christian or religious tenets, but rather the civic virtue of being able to pursue his own interests without conflicting those of his subjects.

Virtue is that which increases power; vice is that which decreases power. These follow Machiavelli's assumptions about human nature. Machiavelli rejected the Platonic idea of a division between what a prince does and what a prince ought to do. The two principle instruments of the prince are force and propaganda, and the prince, in order to increase power (virtue) ought to employ force completely and ruthlessly, and propaganda wisely, backed up by force. Of course, for Machiavelli, the chief propaganda vehicle is that of religion.

Whoever reads Roman history attentively will see in how great a degree religion served in the command of the armies, in uniting the people and keeping them well conducted, and in covering the wicked with shame.

Machiavelli has been credited with giving ruthless strategies (the example of a new political ruler killing the deposed ruler and the ruler's family to prevent usurpation and plotting is well known) -- it is hard to enact many in current politics in a literal way, but many of his strategies can still be seen in electioneering at every level, in national and international relations, and even in corporate and family internal 'politics'. In fact, I have found fewer more Machiavellian types than in church politics!

Of course, these people would be considered 'virtuous' in Machiavellian terms -- doing what is necessary to increase power and authority.

The title of this piece -- the virtues of Machiavelli, must be considered in this frame; certainly in no way virtuous by current standards, but then, it shows, not all have the same standards. Be careful of the words you use -- they may have differing definitions.

Perhaps if Machiavelli had lived a bit later, and been informed by the general rise of science as a rational underpinning to the world, he might have been able to accept less of a degree of randomness in the universe. Perhaps he would have modified his views. Perhaps not -- after all, the realpolitikers of this age are aware of the scientific framework of the universe, and still pursue their courses.

This is an important work, intriguing in many respects. Far shorter than the average classical or medieval philosophical tome, and more accessible by current readers because of a greater familiarity with politics than, say, metaphysics or epistemology, this work yields benefits and insights to all who read, mark, inwardly digest, and critically examine the precepts.

Ruthless, 28 Oct 2004
The Prince... well its difficult to describe exactly what it entails. I think to start with all who consider going into politics or any kind of management role should be handed a copy of this book at the same time as they recieve their application forms. It is ruthless but efficient also and so its central premises should always be remembered, particularly by our governing bodies.
Machiavelli writes with a self assurance which is refreshing in an age of hesitation and self correction.
I'm not convinced that this was a life changing book for me to read, it certainly affected my attitudes and values but is not a inspirational self help book (not that its supposed to be).
I recommend this to anyone who has an interest in history or in politics.

A prince among men., 14 Oct 2003
Machiavelli's realisation of the true nature of men as "...fickle,lying,cowards..." leads him in his brilliantly astute work to illuminate the realities of government and life in general.
Disregarding all political theorie's and ideaoligies machiavelli refreshingly deals with how things are and not how they should.
While on first glance machiavellis work would seem almost evil in its implications as it has been labeled countless times, a deeper look would show it to be more humane and considerate of human wellbeing then any half baked political ideology (communism, Republicanism,democracy etc). His assertion that the ends justifies the means is a good demonstration of this as Machiavelli demonstrates through historical analogies the truth of life in general: for people to prosper others have to suffer. In truthfully explaining this and insisting it be done quickly and totaly for it to be over and done with machiavelli shows a level of compasion far greater than any bleeding hearted liberal vegaterian (the most likely to be opposed to his assertions)
His work while being what many would labels as deeply cinical is niether cinical nor idealogical but an honest assesment of life in general as well as politics, which cannot help but uplift those of the same frame of mind with the comfort of nowing that the realisation that the world is a very unhappy place is not theres alone.
But if you truly believe in the hollywood view of the world in which love is blind and happy endings happen for every one than don't read this book (ignorance is bliss).

ONE OF THE TEN BEST BOOKS EVER, 25 Jul 2003
Here are some BASIC, UTMOST IMPORTANT and UNIVERSAL REMARKS for those that start reading Niccolò Machiavelli, be it IL PRINCIPE or his DISCORSI SOPRA LA PRIMA DECA DI TITO LIVIO, better known as "The DISCOURSES", giving a very original political comment on the first ten books of Titus Livius.
** Machiavelli's IDEA'S are NOT a close-fitting nor a rounded down system: who thinks elsehow will get into overlasting problems.
** The "Secretarius Florentinus" is NOT a SYSTEMATIC philosopher in the scholastic sense of the word: he DOESN'T WORRY whether the question or idea he describes is IN CONCORDANCE with notions or opinions written down elsewhere. Therefore lots of statements can but difficultly be brought in accordance to the former AND c