Dull and sad, 18 Nov 2008
Not a lot going for this book. The author spends a lot of time explaining what broken and lost people some of his former comrades in arms are (most of this is described in other books by the people involved), and that war wrecks peoples lives so perhaps they need professional help. Not exactly news to anyone, one might think.

The Realities of Soldiering, 12 Nov 2008
Like his other non-fictional books, Seven Troop is an excellent read. In my opinion, his best to date. McNab describes in vivid detail, from his own experience, and that of his "Brothers in Arms" the reality of fighting "at the sharp end", and the effect it has on those individuals once they are no longer exposed to those dangers. His unselfish accounts of Frank Collins, Al Slater and in particular, Nish Bruce and Thomas Franks, highlight the problems surrounding PTSD, and the need for those in a position to do so, to provide the help and counselling these guys so desperately need.

Been there before, 07 Nov 2008
My reason for three stars is that I feel I've read most of it before in Bravo Two Zero. To be honest, I started to skip through it-Yet going back over the parts where McNab ?, like in other books, will keep on telling us and showing photos-of men who are no longer in this world. Please don't take me wrong, I am not saying that he is being unfeeling in this, but the men in question have got friends and loved one still around, and I think it about time the men were allowed to rest, and there families too. I fully agree in one thing he said, and that is that casualties of war, should not have to go to a secret place in Wales to recover from a thing that the Government has put them into. It should be there on a plate for them, showing them the respect they showed to the job they did.
In my opinion for what its worth. If you want a book on the Special Forces, you need to be reading Fighting Scared by Robin Horsfall, as he doesn't invade on other mens lives only his own.
Sorry Andy but thats the way I feel.

A Disagreement, 03 Nov 2008
I am going to have to disagree with the other reviewers. This book does nothing but rehash Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action. The fire fights in Northern Ireland, Nicky Smith's death, selection, The Gulf War, et al. They have been all gone over in McNab's two previous non fiction books.

Personally, I was hoping for something with more depth into operations, training, etc. However, I did not get that. Yes, I realize OPSEC is an issue. However, lets be real here folks, most of the information is on open forums now.

Another issue, he could have not been so heavy on the religious issues. Frank Collins is mentioned so heavily and his constant bible thumping, became "borish."

Finally, I would like to challenge (let the flames begin) McNab's statement he does not suffer from any sort of PTSD. A man who has been married 5 times, needs to really sit back, look in the mirror, and figure out exactly what HIS OWN personal problems are. There has to be something.

Mr McNab, if you write another non fiction book, I'd like to see you detail what you did AFTER the 1st Gulf War. What did you do in the SAS that one and a half years? That part of your life is totally missing from your fans.

High personal price of special forces soldiering, 11 Oct 2008
A sad but very much needed work on the nasty realities of soldiering, this book recounts the very moving descent into unhappiness and despair some of McNab's best mates endured in the aftermath of service.

From this book it seems clear that the Regiment is an unnatural substitute for normal family life for young men, i.e., wife and kids are replaced by comradeship, which perhaps becomes foundational for a subsequent dysfunctional life for some of the guys. It means that when they leave there is a sense that they've lost the focus or foundation of their daily existence. And of course, the exposure to the cutting edge of modern military adventurism is the other key factor destabilising the mental health of special forces soldiers, with the inevitable horrible sights, sounds and loss of beloved friends. I couldn't help but conclude that, all the prestige notwithstanding, making it into the SAS is just not worth it for a lot, maybe even most, of the lads who manage it.

A few errors apart (i.e. Kesh RUC station was in Fermanagh, not Donegal, as the latter is part of the Republic of Ireland), the book is replete with fascinating anecdotes and occasional operational accounts, most notably in my native Northern Ireland, where, among my own community (the Protestants), the SAS are revered for their work at Loughgall in particular and against the IRA in general. Many of us would have liked to have seen them given a freer hand during the Troubles, as we are sure that had they been, there would be fewer of our friends and family lying dead in graveyards around the Province.

In closing, I am very pleased McNab wrote this and especially glad he disclosed so much of Frank Collins' story therein also. I was moved to tears at the kindness and sincerity of Collins as accounted in the book, so credit to McNab for not shying away from relating the man's religious convictions. In sum, this book shows us that even the elite forces are just human beings, amongst some of the most noble on the face of this earth. Highly recommended reading!

Dull and sad, 18 Nov 2008
Not a lot going for this book. The author spends a lot of time explaining what broken and lost people some of his former comrades in arms are (most of this is described in other books by the people involved), and that war wrecks peoples lives so perhaps they need professional help. Not exactly news to anyone, one might think.

The Realities of Soldiering, 12 Nov 2008
Like his other non-fictional books, Seven Troop is an excellent read. In my opinion, his best to date. McNab describes in vivid detail, from his own experience, and that of his "Brothers in Arms" the reality of fighting "at the sharp end", and the effect it has on those individuals once they are no longer exposed to those dangers. His unselfish accounts of Frank Collins, Al Slater and in particular, Nish Bruce and Thomas Franks, highlight the problems surrounding PTSD, and the need for those in a position to do so, to provide the help and counselling these guys so desperately need.

Been there before, 07 Nov 2008
My reason for three stars is that I feel I've read most of it before in Bravo Two Zero. To be honest, I started to skip through it-Yet going back over the parts where McNab ?, like in other books, will keep on telling us and showing photos-of men who are no longer in this world. Please don't take me wrong, I am not saying that he is being unfeeling in this, but the men in question have got friends and loved one still around, and I think it about time the men were allowed to rest, and there families too. I fully agree in one thing he said, and that is that casualties of war, should not have to go to a secret place in Wales to recover from a thing that the Government has put them into. It should be there on a plate for them, showing them the respect they showed to the job they did.
In my opinion for what its worth. If you want a book on the Special Forces, you need to be reading Fighting Scared by Robin Horsfall, as he doesn't invade on other mens lives only his own.
Sorry Andy but thats the way I feel.

A Disagreement, 03 Nov 2008
I am going to have to disagree with the other reviewers. This book does nothing but rehash Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action. The fire fights in Northern Ireland, Nicky Smith's death, selection, The Gulf War, et al. They have been all gone over in McNab's two previous non fiction books.

Personally, I was hoping for something with more depth into operations, training, etc. However, I did not get that. Yes, I realize OPSEC is an issue. However, lets be real here folks, most of the information is on open forums now.

Another issue, he could have not been so heavy on the religious issues. Frank Collins is mentioned so heavily and his constant bible thumping, became "borish."

Finally, I would like to challenge (let the flames begin) McNab's statement he does not suffer from any sort of PTSD. A man who has been married 5 times, needs to really sit back, look in the mirror, and figure out exactly what HIS OWN personal problems are. There has to be something.

Mr McNab, if you write another non fiction book, I'd like to see you detail what you did AFTER the 1st Gulf War. What did you do in the SAS that one and a half years? That part of your life is totally missing from your fans.

High personal price of special forces soldiering, 11 Oct 2008
A sad but very much needed work on the nasty realities of soldiering, this book recounts the very moving descent into unhappiness and despair some of McNab's best mates endured in the aftermath of service.

From this book it seems clear that the Regiment is an unnatural substitute for normal family life for young men, i.e., wife and kids are replaced by comradeship, which perhaps becomes foundational for a subsequent dysfunctional life for some of the guys. It means that when they leave there is a sense that they've lost the focus or foundation of their daily existence. And of course, the exposure to the cutting edge of modern military adventurism is the other key factor destabilising the mental health of special forces soldiers, with the inevitable horrible sights, sounds and loss of beloved friends. I couldn't help but conclude that, all the prestige notwithstanding, making it into the SAS is just not worth it for a lot, maybe even most, of the lads who manage it.

A few errors apart (i.e. Kesh RUC station was in Fermanagh, not Donegal, as the latter is part of the Republic of Ireland), the book is replete with fascinating anecdotes and occasional operational accounts, most notably in my native Northern Ireland, where, among my own community (the Protestants), the SAS are revered for their work at Loughgall in particular and against the IRA in general. Many of us would have liked to have seen them given a freer hand during the Troubles, as we are sure that had they been, there would be fewer of our friends and family lying dead in graveyards around the Province.

In closing, I am very pleased McNab wrote this and especially glad he disclosed so much of Frank Collins' story therein also. I was moved to tears at the kindness and sincerity of Collins as accounted in the book, so credit to McNab for not shying away from relating the man's religious convictions. In sum, this book shows us that even the elite forces are just human beings, amongst some of the most noble on the face of this earth. Highly recommended reading!

The Dambuster raid comes alive, 11 Nov 2008
There are many histories written about the Dams raid where you can glean the clinical facts - and there was the film ... but there's nothing like oral history to engage the imagination and bring you close to the people who were there. The Dambusters, far from being 'gung-ho' come over as men of enormous skill, courage and resourcefulness, with a strong camaraderie among the crews. Their own words ring true - some readily admit that Gibson wasn't universally popular - but none doubted his resolve and courage. The crews trained to the increasingly exacting demands by the designer of the new bomb - they recall hair-raising flying at just 60 feet, honing their bombing accuracy - and their accounts build the tension until, on the day of the raid, they learn their night's target and recall their emotions. The accounts of the flight out and the bomb runs on the dams are riveting as some aircraft and crews go down in flames - and as an added bonus, there are detailed recollections from Germans who found themselves under the breaking dams. It's a brilliant read and a great tribute to all involved in the raid, from Barnes Wallis and his work to develop the bomb, to Gibson and all his crews and ground crews of 617 Squadron. Can't recommend it enough.

Dull and sad, 18 Nov 2008
Not a lot going for this book. The author spends a lot of time explaining what broken and lost people some of his former comrades in arms are (most of this is described in other books by the people involved), and that war wrecks peoples lives so perhaps they need professional help. Not exactly news to anyone, one might think.

The Realities of Soldiering, 12 Nov 2008
Like his other non-fictional books, Seven Troop is an excellent read. In my opinion, his best to date. McNab describes in vivid detail, from his own experience, and that of his "Brothers in Arms" the reality of fighting "at the sharp end", and the effect it has on those individuals once they are no longer exposed to those dangers. His unselfish accounts of Frank Collins, Al Slater and in particular, Nish Bruce and Thomas Franks, highlight the problems surrounding PTSD, and the need for those in a position to do so, to provide the help and counselling these guys so desperately need.

Been there before, 07 Nov 2008
My reason for three stars is that I feel I've read most of it before in Bravo Two Zero. To be honest, I started to skip through it-Yet going back over the parts where McNab ?, like in other books, will keep on telling us and showing photos-of men who are no longer in this world. Please don't take me wrong, I am not saying that he is being unfeeling in this, but the men in question have got friends and loved one still around, and I think it about time the men were allowed to rest, and there families too. I fully agree in one thing he said, and that is that casualties of war, should not have to go to a secret place in Wales to recover from a thing that the Government has put them into. It should be there on a plate for them, showing them the respect they showed to the job they did.
In my opinion for what its worth. If you want a book on the Special Forces, you need to be reading Fighting Scared by Robin Horsfall, as he doesn't invade on other mens lives only his own.
Sorry Andy but thats the way I feel.

A Disagreement, 03 Nov 2008
I am going to have to disagree with the other reviewers. This book does nothing but rehash Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action. The fire fights in Northern Ireland, Nicky Smith's death, selection, The Gulf War, et al. They have been all gone over in McNab's two previous non fiction books.

Personally, I was hoping for something with more depth into operations, training, etc. However, I did not get that. Yes, I realize OPSEC is an issue. However, lets be real here folks, most of the information is on open forums now.

Another issue, he could have not been so heavy on the religious issues. Frank Collins is mentioned so heavily and his constant bible thumping, became "borish."

Finally, I would like to challenge (let the flames begin) McNab's statement he does not suffer from any sort of PTSD. A man who has been married 5 times, needs to really sit back, look in the mirror, and figure out exactly what HIS OWN personal problems are. There has to be something.

Mr McNab, if you write another non fiction book, I'd like to see you detail what you did AFTER the 1st Gulf War. What did you do in the SAS that one and a half years? That part of your life is totally missing from your fans.

High personal price of special forces soldiering, 11 Oct 2008
A sad but very much needed work on the nasty realities of soldiering, this book recounts the very moving descent into unhappiness and despair some of McNab's best mates endured in the aftermath of service.

From this book it seems clear that the Regiment is an unnatural substitute for normal family life for young men, i.e., wife and kids are replaced by comradeship, which perhaps becomes foundational for a subsequent dysfunctional life for some of the guys. It means that when they leave there is a sense that they've lost the focus or foundation of their daily existence. And of course, the exposure to the cutting edge of modern military adventurism is the other key factor destabilising the mental health of special forces soldiers, with the inevitable horrible sights, sounds and loss of beloved friends. I couldn't help but conclude that, all the prestige notwithstanding, making it into the SAS is just not worth it for a lot, maybe even most, of the lads who manage it.

A few errors apart (i.e. Kesh RUC station was in Fermanagh, not Donegal, as the latter is part of the Republic of Ireland), the book is replete with fascinating anecdotes and occasional operational accounts, most notably in my native Northern Ireland, where, among my own community (the Protestants), the SAS are revered for their work at Loughgall in particular and against the IRA in general. Many of us would have liked to have seen them given a freer hand during the Troubles, as we are sure that had they been, there would be fewer of our friends and family lying dead in graveyards around the Province.

In closing, I am very pleased McNab wrote this and especially glad he disclosed so much of Frank Collins' story therein also. I was moved to tears at the kindness and sincerity of Collins as accounted in the book, so credit to McNab for not shying away from relating the man's religious convictions. In sum, this book shows us that even the elite forces are just human beings, amongst some of the most noble on the face of this earth. Highly recommended reading!

The Dambuster raid comes alive, 11 Nov 2008
There are many histories written about the Dams raid where you can glean the clinical facts - and there was the film ... but there's nothing like oral history to engage the imagination and bring you close to the people who were there. The Dambusters, far from being 'gung-ho' come over as men of enormous skill, courage and resourcefulness, with a strong camaraderie among the crews. Their own words ring true - some readily admit that Gibson wasn't universally popular - but none doubted his resolve and courage. The crews trained to the increasingly exacting demands by the designer of the new bomb - they recall hair-raising flying at just 60 feet, honing their bombing accuracy - and their accounts build the tension until, on the day of the raid, they learn their night's target and recall their emotions. The accounts of the flight out and the bomb runs on the dams are riveting as some aircraft and crews go down in flames - and as an added bonus, there are detailed recollections from Germans who found themselves under the breaking dams. It's a brilliant read and a great tribute to all involved in the raid, from Barnes Wallis and his work to develop the bomb, to Gibson and all his crews and ground crews of 617 Squadron. Can't recommend it enough.

Fabulous Fiction, 14 Nov 2008
This is real boys own stuff. What a story, if only it were true, which sadly the majority is not. If you like the old commando comics then this and Andy Mcnab's stuff will be right up your ally. But if you prefer to read about real heroics then go for some of the other books recounting the stories of our troops on HERRICK 5.

How do I know it's not true, well being in the AAC gives you an inside track.


Great read, 27 Oct 2008
Ed Macy describes his (many) experiences in the British Army / mainly Army Air Corps in superb detail (with the help of Tom Newton Dunn - defence correspondent for The Sun newspaper). The role and dedication of an Apache attack helicopter pilot / gunner is brought to life in scintillating style. This really is a cracking read - I cannot recommend it highly enough. Action packed, emotionally descriptive and technologically fascinating.

One Word Awesome, 27 Oct 2008
All I can say is 'Awesome' an awesome tale of an awesome machine.
10 out of 10.

top book, 25 Oct 2008
An excellent well written book that I bought without reading a review. got lucky this time! Finished it in 3 nights and has passed my acid test I will read it again

Absolutely Unbelievable - Brilliant, 23 Oct 2008
I am a 14 year old teen who really doesn't like reading, but once I read the first page of this book I couldn't put it down and I was genuinely sad when I finished it.

As well as giving 1st hand accounts of real missions in the apache, it brings life in the army to life, from how the Apache works to why they gave all the apaches the names of famous porn stars!

This book brought everything to life so well that when I finished it I really felt like I was missing the people from the book. It really puts you into the cockpit.

10/10 - 100/100 - 1000/1000 - This book it quality - read it.

Dull and sad, 18 Nov 2008
Not a lot going for this book. The author spends a lot of time explaining what broken and lost people some of his former comrades in arms are (most of this is described in other books by the people involved), and that war wrecks peoples lives so perhaps they need professional help. Not exactly news to anyone, one might think.

The Realities of Soldiering, 12 Nov 2008
Like his other non-fictional books, Seven Troop is an excellent read. In my opinion, his best to date. McNab describes in vivid detail, from his own experience, and that of his "Brothers in Arms" the reality of fighting "at the sharp end", and the effect it has on those individuals once they are no longer exposed to those dangers. His unselfish accounts of Frank Collins, Al Slater and in particular, Nish Bruce and Thomas Franks, highlight the problems surrounding PTSD, and the need for those in a position to do so, to provide the help and counselling these guys so desperately need.

Been there before, 07 Nov 2008
My reason for three stars is that I feel I've read most of it before in Bravo Two Zero. To be honest, I started to skip through it-Yet going back over the parts where McNab ?, like in other books, will keep on telling us and showing photos-of men who are no longer in this world. Please don't take me wrong, I am not saying that he is being unfeeling in this, but the men in question have got friends and loved one still around, and I think it about time the men were allowed to rest, and there families too. I fully agree in one thing he said, and that is that casualties of war, should not have to go to a secret place in Wales to recover from a thing that the Government has put them into. It should be there on a plate for them, showing them the respect they showed to the job they did.
In my opinion for what its worth. If you want a book on the Special Forces, you need to be reading Fighting Scared by Robin Horsfall, as he doesn't invade on other mens lives only his own.
Sorry Andy but thats the way I feel.

A Disagreement, 03 Nov 2008
I am going to have to disagree with the other reviewers. This book does nothing but rehash Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action. The fire fights in Northern Ireland, Nicky Smith's death, selection, The Gulf War, et al. They have been all gone over in McNab's two previous non fiction books.

Personally, I was hoping for something with more depth into operations, training, etc. However, I did not get that. Yes, I realize OPSEC is an issue. However, lets be real here folks, most of the information is on open forums now.

Another issue, he could have not been so heavy on the religious issues. Frank Collins is mentioned so heavily and his constant bible thumping, became "borish."

Finally, I would like to challenge (let the flames begin) McNab's statement he does not suffer from any sort of PTSD. A man who has been married 5 times, needs to really sit back, look in the mirror, and figure out exactly what HIS OWN personal problems are. There has to be something.

Mr McNab, if you write another non fiction book, I'd like to see you detail what you did AFTER the 1st Gulf War. What did you do in the SAS that one and a half years? That part of your life is totally missing from your fans.

High personal price of special forces soldiering, 11 Oct 2008
A sad but very much needed work on the nasty realities of soldiering, this book recounts the very moving descent into unhappiness and despair some of McNab's best mates endured in the aftermath of service.

From this book it seems clear that the Regiment is an unnatural substitute for normal family life for young men, i.e., wife and kids are replaced by comradeship, which perhaps becomes foundational for a subsequent dysfunctional life for some of the guys. It means that when they leave there is a sense that they've lost the focus or foundation of their daily existence. And of course, the exposure to the cutting edge of modern military adventurism is the other key factor destabilising the mental health of special forces soldiers, with the inevitable horrible sights, sounds and loss of beloved friends. I couldn't help but conclude that, all the prestige notwithstanding, making it into the SAS is just not worth it for a lot, maybe even most, of the lads who manage it.

A few errors apart (i.e. Kesh RUC station was in Fermanagh, not Donegal, as the latter is part of the Republic of Ireland), the book is replete with fascinating anecdotes and occasional operational accounts, most notably in my native Northern Ireland, where, among my own community (the Protestants), the SAS are revered for their work at Loughgall in particular and against the IRA in general. Many of us would have liked to have seen them given a freer hand during the Troubles, as we are sure that had they been, there would be fewer of our friends and family lying dead in graveyards around the Province.

In closing, I am very pleased McNab wrote this and especially glad he disclosed so much of Frank Collins' story therein also. I was moved to tears at the kindness and sincerity of Collins as accounted in the book, so credit to McNab for not shying away from relating the man's religious convictions. In sum, this book shows us that even the elite forces are just human beings, amongst some of the most noble on the face of this earth. Highly recommended reading!

The Dambuster raid comes alive, 11 Nov 2008
There are many histories written about the Dams raid where you can glean the clinical facts - and there was the film ... but there's nothing like oral history to engage the imagination and bring you close to the people who were there. The Dambusters, far from being 'gung-ho' come over as men of enormous skill, courage and resourcefulness, with a strong camaraderie among the crews. Their own words ring true - some readily admit that Gibson wasn't universally popular - but none doubted his resolve and courage. The crews trained to the increasingly exacting demands by the designer of the new bomb - they recall hair-raising flying at just 60 feet, honing their bombing accuracy - and their accounts build the tension until, on the day of the raid, they learn their night's target and recall their emotions. The accounts of the flight out and the bomb runs on the dams are riveting as some aircraft and crews go down in flames - and as an added bonus, there are detailed recollections from Germans who found themselves under the breaking dams. It's a brilliant read and a great tribute to all involved in the raid, from Barnes Wallis and his work to develop the bomb, to Gibson and all his crews and ground crews of 617 Squadron. Can't recommend it enough.

Fabulous Fiction, 14 Nov 2008
This is real boys own stuff. What a story, if only it were true, which sadly the majority is not. If you like the old commando comics then this and Andy Mcnab's stuff will be right up your ally. But if you prefer to read about real heroics then go for some of the other books recounting the stories of our troops on HERRICK 5.

How do I know it's not true, well being in the AAC gives you an inside track.


Great read, 27 Oct 2008
Ed Macy describes his (many) experiences in the British Army / mainly Army Air Corps in superb detail (with the help of Tom Newton Dunn - defence correspondent for The Sun newspaper). The role and dedication of an Apache attack helicopter pilot / gunner is brought to life in scintillating style. This really is a cracking read - I cannot recommend it highly enough. Action packed, emotionally descriptive and technologically fascinating.

One Word Awesome, 27 Oct 2008
All I can say is 'Awesome' an awesome tale of an awesome machine.
10 out of 10.

top book, 25 Oct 2008
An excellent well written book that I bought without reading a review. got lucky this time! Finished it in 3 nights and has passed my acid test I will read it again

Absolutely Unbelievable - Brilliant, 23 Oct 2008
I am a 14 year old teen who really doesn't like reading, but once I read the first page of this book I couldn't put it down and I was genuinely sad when I finished it.

As well as giving 1st hand accounts of real missions in the apache, it brings life in the army to life, from how the Apache works to why they gave all the apaches the names of famous porn stars!

This book brought everything to life so well that when I finished it I really felt like I was missing the people from the book. It really puts you into the cockpit.

10/10 - 100/100 - 1000/1000 - This book it quality - read it.

3 Commando Brigade , 14 Nov 2008
If you want the real story of some pretty formidable heroics then this is the book to read about the Marines' tour in Helmand. It gives the true strength of character required and what the troops are having to go through during their tour of duty.

A gripping read.


Herrick 5, 01 Nov 2008
This is a well written account of 3 Commando Brigade's tour of duty in Helmand; one that we've already seen on Chris Terril's COMMANDO. The author (an old Falklands hand) balances some ripping tales of valour with an account of what the Brigade was trying to do on a more operational and strategic level. You see how the individual actions fitted in to the overall picture. At a chapter a month you see the operation unfold with lots of planning and lots of action. Kit-heads will find lots to enjoy as will those who wonder how the blazes you fight an enemy like the Taliban; very professionally, seems to be the answer.

The Marines at their best...READ IT!!!!!!!, 18 Sep 2008
It is always annoying when reading' that a mistake appears, something a proof reading should have picked up and yet is missed.Page 57, "on 8 October 2008 3 commando Brigade's brigadier, Jerry Thomas, formally took over from 16 air assault Brigade's brigadier, Ed Butler." If this was so then it has not happened yet!!!!
Having said that it takes nothing from the account of the marines in Afghanistan. I also like the fact that the Royal Engineers are mentioned often for the work that they have carried out.These boys are usually the unsung heroes in any conflict and at last they have been given recognition in this book.
It is written factually and contains many verbal anecdotes from the troops themselves. Along with the all important detail of action by troops and enemy alike, with good annalysis of equipment used, it aligns all parameters with intricate ability to bring all the supporting groups into the equation whilst still giving a first hand account of individual heroism in the field of battle.
I like the style of Ewen Southby-Tailyour and indeed found the opening prologue, detailing the Jugroom fort mission to rescue the body of Mathew Ford,an awesome account that puts this book on everyones must read list.


A smashing read, 12 Sep 2008
An absolutely smashing read - a true history but written in an 'approachable' manner as much for the lay person as the keen military historian. The photographs enhance the text perfectly.

Clearly written by a professional, military historian with no personal agenda and huge combat experience.

Cannot recommend it highly enough.

Dull and sad, 18 Nov 2008
Not a lot going for this book. The author spends a lot of time explaining what broken and lost people some of his former comrades in arms are (most of this is described in other books by the people involved), and that war wrecks peoples lives so perhaps they need professional help. Not exactly news to anyone, one might think.

The Realities of Soldiering, 12 Nov 2008
Like his other non-fictional books, Seven Troop is an excellent read. In my opinion, his best to date. McNab describes in vivid detail, from his own experience, and that of his "Brothers in Arms" the reality of fighting "at the sharp end", and the effect it has on those individuals once they are no longer exposed to those dangers. His unselfish accounts of Frank Collins, Al Slater and in particular, Nish Bruce and Thomas Franks, highlight the problems surrounding PTSD, and the need for those in a position to do so, to provide the help and counselling these guys so desperately need.

Been there before, 07 Nov 2008
My reason for three stars is that I feel I've read most of it before in Bravo Two Zero. To be honest, I started to skip through it-Yet going back over the parts where McNab ?, like in other books, will keep on telling us and showing photos-of men who are no longer in this world. Please don't take me wrong, I am not saying that he is being unfeeling in this, but the men in question have got friends and loved one still around, and I think it about time the men were allowed to rest, and there families too. I fully agree in one thing he said, and that is that casualties of war, should not have to go to a secret place in Wales to recover from a thing that the Government has put them into. It should be there on a plate for them, showing them the respect they showed to the job they did.
In my opinion for what its worth. If you want a book on the Special Forces, you need to be reading Fighting Scared by Robin Horsfall, as he doesn't invade on other mens lives only his own.
Sorry Andy but thats the way I feel.

A Disagreement, 03 Nov 2008
I am going to have to disagree with the other reviewers. This book does nothing but rehash Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action. The fire fights in Northern Ireland, Nicky Smith's death, selection, The Gulf War, et al. They have been all gone over in McNab's two previous non fiction books.

Personally, I was hoping for something with more depth into operations, training, etc. However, I did not get that. Yes, I realize OPSEC is an issue. However, lets be real here folks, most of the information is on open forums now.

Another issue, he could have not been so heavy on the religious issues. Frank Collins is mentioned so heavily and his constant bible thumping, became "borish."

Finally, I would like to challenge (let the flames begin) McNab's statement he does not suffer from any sort of PTSD. A man who has been married 5 times, needs to really sit back, look in the mirror, and figure out exactly what HIS OWN personal problems are. There has to be something.

Mr McNab, if you write another non fiction book, I'd like to see you detail what you did AFTER the 1st Gulf War. What did you do in the SAS that one and a half years? That part of your life is totally missing from your fans.

High personal price of special forces soldiering, 11 Oct 2008
A sad but very much needed work on the nasty realities of soldiering, this book recounts the very moving descent into unhappiness and despair some of McNab's best mates endured in the aftermath of service.

From this book it seems clear that the Regiment is an unnatural substitute for normal family life for young men, i.e., wife and kids are replaced by comradeship, which perhaps becomes foundational for a subsequent dysfunctional life for some of the guys. It means that when they leave there is a sense that they've lost the focus or foundation of their daily existence. And of course, the exposure to the cutting edge of modern military adventurism is the other key factor destabilising the mental health of special forces soldiers, with the inevitable horrible sights, sounds and loss of beloved friends. I couldn't help but conclude that, all the prestige notwithstanding, making it into the SAS is just not worth it for a lot, maybe even most, of the lads who manage it.

A few errors apart (i.e. Kesh RUC station was in Fermanagh, not Donegal, as the latter is part of the Republic of Ireland), the book is replete with fascinating anecdotes and occasional operational accounts, most notably in my native Northern Ireland, where, among my own community (the Protestants), the SAS are revered for their work at Loughgall in particular and against the IRA in general. Many of us would have liked to have seen them given a freer hand during the Troubles, as we are sure that had they been, there would be fewer of our friends and family lying dead in graveyards around the Province.

In closing, I am very pleased McNab wrote this and especially glad he disclosed so much of Frank Collins' story therein also. I was moved to tears at the kindness and sincerity of Collins as accounted in the book, so credit to McNab for not shying away from relating the man's religious convictions. In sum, this book shows us that even the elite forces are just human beings, amongst some of the most noble on the face of this earth. Highly recommended reading!

The Dambuster raid comes alive, 11 Nov 2008
There are many histories written about the Dams raid where you can glean the clinical facts - and there was the film ... but there's nothing like oral history to engage the imagination and bring you close to the people who were there. The Dambusters, far from being 'gung-ho' come over as men of enormous skill, courage and resourcefulness, with a strong camaraderie among the crews. Their own words ring true - some readily admit that Gibson wasn't universally popular - but none doubted his resolve and courage. The crews trained to the increasingly exacting demands by the designer of the new bomb - they recall hair-raising flying at just 60 feet, honing their bombing accuracy - and their accounts build the tension until, on the day of the raid, they learn their night's target and recall their emotions. The accounts of the flight out and the bomb runs on the dams are riveting as some aircraft and crews go down in flames - and as an added bonus, there are detailed recollections from Germans who found themselves under the breaking dams. It's a brilliant read and a great tribute to all involved in the raid, from Barnes Wallis and his work to develop the bomb, to Gibson and all his crews and ground crews of 617 Squadron. Can't recommend it enough.

Fabulous Fiction, 14 Nov 2008
This is real boys own stuff. What a story, if only it were true, which sadly the majority is not. If you like the old commando comics then this and Andy Mcnab's stuff will be right up your ally. But if you prefer to read about real heroics then go for some of the other books recounting the stories of our troops on HERRICK 5.

How do I know it's not true, well being in the AAC gives you an inside track.


Great read, 27 Oct 2008
Ed Macy describes his (many) experiences in the British Army / mainly Army Air Corps in superb detail (with the help of Tom Newton Dunn - defence correspondent for The Sun newspaper). The role and dedication of an Apache attack helicopter pilot / gunner is brought to life in scintillating style. This really is a cracking read - I cannot recommend it highly enough. Action packed, emotionally descriptive and technologically fascinating.

One Word Awesome, 27 Oct 2008
All I can say is 'Awesome' an awesome tale of an awesome machine.
10 out of 10.

top book, 25 Oct 2008
An excellent well written book that I bought without reading a review. got lucky this time! Finished it in 3 nights and has passed my acid test I will read it again

Absolutely Unbelievable - Brilliant, 23 Oct 2008
I am a 14 year old teen who really doesn't like reading, but once I read the first page of this book I couldn't put it down and I was genuinely sad when I finished it.

As well as giving 1st hand accounts of real missions in the apache, it brings life in the army to life, from how the Apache works to why they gave all the apaches the names of famous porn stars!

This book brought everything to life so well that when I finished it I really felt like I was missing the people from the book. It really puts you into the cockpit.

10/10 - 100/100 - 1000/1000 - This book it quality - read it.

3 Commando Brigade , 14 Nov 2008
If you want the real story of some pretty formidable heroics then this is the book to read about the Marines' tour in Helmand. It gives the true strength of character required and what the troops are having to go through during their tour of duty.

A gripping read.


Herrick 5, 01 Nov 2008
This is a well written account of 3 Commando Brigade's tour of duty in Helmand; one that we've already seen on Chris Terril's COMMANDO. The author (an old Falklands hand) balances some ripping tales of valour with an account of what the Brigade was trying to do on a more operational and strategic level. You see how the individual actions fitted in to the overall picture. At a chapter a month you see the operation unfold with lots of planning and lots of action. Kit-heads will find lots to enjoy as will those who wonder how the blazes you fight an enemy like the Taliban; very professionally, seems to be the answer.

The Marines at their best...READ IT!!!!!!!, 18 Sep 2008
It is always annoying when reading' that a mistake appears, something a proof reading should have picked up and yet is missed.Page 57, "on 8 October 2008 3 commando Brigade's brigadier, Jerry Thomas, formally took over from 16 air assault Brigade's brigadier, Ed Butler." If this was so then it has not happened yet!!!!
Having said that it takes nothing from the account of the marines in Afghanistan. I also like the fact that the Royal Engineers are mentioned often for the work that they have carried out.These boys are usually the unsung heroes in any conflict and at last they have been given recognition in this book.
It is written factually and contains many verbal anecdotes from the troops themselves. Along with the all important detail of action by troops and enemy alike, with good annalysis of equipment used, it aligns all parameters with intricate ability to bring all the supporting groups into the equation whilst still giving a first hand account of individual heroism in the field of battle.
I like the style of Ewen Southby-Tailyour and indeed found the opening prologue, detailing the Jugroom fort mission to rescue the body of Mathew Ford,an awesome account that puts this book on everyones must read list.


A smashing read, 12 Sep 2008
An absolutely smashing read - a true history but written in an 'approachable' manner as much for the lay person as the keen military historian. The photographs enhance the text perfectly.

Clearly written by a professional, military historian with no personal agenda and huge combat experience.

Cannot recommend it highly enough.


An incisive account of one of the most important sectors of the Allied offensive., 16 Aug 2008
It is very easy to lament the work done by Bomber Command in the mid to end years of the Second World War in Europe. This book does just that. But it also delves into the hearts of those who flew the bombers, the emotions of those who let loose the bomb doors, the feelings of those who shot at night-fighters. And the book's great achievement is in presenting a view that not only helps us understand the great personal sacrifice these men made, but the even greater emotional sacrifice they have suffered since the end of the war.
With some glaring grammatical mistakes, the book's editors should be sacked, but all in all, this is a highly endearing yet incisive account of one of the ugliest aspects of war, yet an aspect that greatly hastened the end of the suffering of Europe.

Should be compulsory reading!, 04 Jun 2008
This book is the best book I have read so far this year.

It describes the strategic air war against Germany by the RAF in the Second World War. That description makes it sound maybe a bit dry and academic but it is far from being either of those things! It tells the story of this chapter in the war from a very human point of view. For example, there are chapters describing the airmen's training, lives at their bases, their motivation, how they dealt with the fear of being killed whilst carrying out operation over Europe at night and many other highly interesting aspects of the lives of these remarkable men.

The book also describes the strategy behind the bombing of Germany, from the beginning to the end of the war and gives a good insight into the main commanders - people such as Charles Portal and Bomber Harris.

The story told in these pages is often very moving and I once I had finished the book I thought about it for a long time afterwards, quite unlike other books I have read. I felt great sympathy for all the men of Bomber Command, which has never had the vital role it played in World War II properly publicly acknowledged. I hope that this book will cause many to ask why this is so and perhaps focus efforts to have a permanent memorial specific to these men built, and to have this done before the last of them die and they recede from living memory.


A moving but balanced account., 01 Jun 2008
Bomber Boys brought tears to my eyes. It is a movingly written record and assessment of the horrors that aircrew endured during World War II. My father - a navigator in a 44 Squadron Lancaster - had told me on many occasions about his war service and I understood something of the difficulties. However, it was only by reading this book that one can put into perspective the terrible loss, the low chances of survival as well as the physical and mental strain of missions.
Nor does the book shirk from the real moral ambiguities of the campaign and follows through to officialdom's post-war embarrassment of their role. The book fills in many of the gaps that I did not appreciate when talking to my father and allows me now to understand how truly heroic his and his fellow aircrewmen's contribution was. I only wish that my father could have survived a couple more years to have enjoyed reading it.

The truth behind the Dam Busters' legend, 05 Apr 2008
It's been about five years since I read Bishop's Fighter Boys and since I heard he was writing Bomber Boys I've been eagerly awaiting its release. It has lived up to and surpassed my expectations. It is exactly as a history book should be: a harmonious marriage of personal stories and a view of the bigger picture, which in this case is the progress of the bombing campaign against Nazi Germany. It's only upon reading this that I discovered how little I knew about Bomber Command and the Second World War! It's shocking, really, to think that they might not have received as much recognition as their efforts deserved. Buy this book and be amazed!

Enormous cost, 18 Nov 2007
As the very proud son of a Lancaster Bomber Flight Engineer I have read many books on Bomber Command and this ranks as one of the best.It shows the undoubted bravery of the crews whilst questioning the need for mass bombing particularly towards the end of the war.It is a great reminder to those who have forgotten and to those who never realised what a sacrifice 55,000 brave young men gave for us all.

Surviving Battle of Britain fighter aces were thin on the ground even in 1941, so any new book more than 60 years later from a previously unknown pilot is bound to get noticed. And First Light is not just any book. It might not turn out to be a lasting classic, like Richard Hillary's The Last Enemy or Erich Maria Remarque's All Quiet on the Western Front, but it is a cut well above the bog standard wartime reminiscences of many retired military bods. For a start Wellum can write, but more than this he has an instinctive feel for a good story. He begins First Light as a fresh-faced, rather obnoxious public schoolboy keen to blag his way into the RAF in March 1939; just three years, two full tours on Spitfires, the Battle of Britain, nearly 100 escorts and fighter sweeps over occupied France and a Malta convoy later, Wellum was physically and mentally burnt out before the age of 22. An old man in a boy's body. His descriptions of the excitement, freedom and, at times, sheer terror of operating in a three-dimensional airspace are vividly powerful, but perhaps his greatest gift is to get across the way the fatigue and the emotional shutting off creeps up unnoticed.

At the start, the death of a friend leaves Wellum devastated and wondering when his turn will come; within the space of a few hundred pages, the failure of a pilot to return is dropped in almost as an afterthought. This is not the response of a man who cares too little, but of one who cares too much. Without being aware of it, he has experienced and felt too much and his mind and body have involuntarily separated. This comes into even sharper relief at the end when Wellum is stood down from active service; he is the only one not to see--quite literally, as his vision has become impaired--that his ailments are rooted in his psyche rather than his body. The only one false note is his desire to see his role as part of a bigger picture; written many years after the events he describes, Wellum sometimes interjects thoughts and feelings about the war that simply do not ring true. That aside, one is left wondering what became of Wellum the man between the war ending and the book's publication. What sense did the prematurely aged fighter pilot make of the post-war age and did he learn to love again? But that, maybe, is the subject for another book. --John Crace

Dull and sad, 18 Nov 2008
Not a lot going for this book. The author spends a lot of time explaining what broken and lost people some of his former comrades in arms are (most of this is described in other books by the people involved), and that war wrecks peoples lives so perhaps they need professional help. Not exactly news to anyone, one might think.

The Realities of Soldiering, 12 Nov 2008
Like his other non-fictional books, Seven Troop is an excellent read. In my opinion, his best to date. McNab describes in vivid detail, from his own experience, and that of his "Brothers in Arms" the reality of fighting "at the sharp end", and the effect it has on those individuals once they are no longer exposed to those dangers. His unselfish accounts of Frank Collins, Al Slater and in particular, Nish Bruce and Thomas Franks, highlight the problems surrounding PTSD, and the need for those in a position to do so, to provide the help and counselling these guys so desperately need.

Been there before, 07 Nov 2008
My reason for three stars is that I feel I've read most of it before in Bravo Two Zero. To be honest, I started to skip through it-Yet going back over the parts where McNab ?, like in other books, will keep on telling us and showing photos-of men who are no longer in this world. Please don't take me wrong, I am not saying that he is being unfeeling in this, but the men in question have got friends and loved one still around, and I think it about time the men were allowed to rest, and there families too. I fully agree in one thing he said, and that is that casualties of war, should not have to go to a secret place in Wales to recover from a thing that the Government has put them into. It should be there on a plate for them, showing them the respect they showed to the job they did.
In my opinion for what its worth. If you want a book on the Special Forces, you need to be reading Fighting Scared by Robin Horsfall, as he doesn't invade on other mens lives only his own.
Sorry Andy but thats the way I feel.

A Disagreement, 03 Nov 2008
I am going to have to disagree with the other reviewers. This book does nothing but rehash Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action. The fire fights in Northern Ireland, Nicky Smith's death, selection, The Gulf War, et al. They have been all gone over in McNab's two previous non fiction books.

Personally, I was hoping for something with more depth into operations, training, etc. However, I did not get that. Yes, I realize OPSEC is an issue. However, lets be real here folks, most of the information is on open forums now.

Another issue, he could have not been so heavy on the religious issues. Frank Collins is mentioned so heavily and his constant bible thumping, became "borish."

Finally, I would like to challenge (let the flames begin) McNab's statement he does not suffer from any sort of PTSD. A man who has been married 5 times, needs to really sit back, look in the mirror, and figure out exactly what HIS OWN personal problems are. There has to be something.

Mr McNab, if you write another non fiction book, I'd like to see you detail what you did AFTER the 1st Gulf War. What did you do in the SAS that one and a half years? That part of your life is totally missing from your fans.

High personal price of special forces soldiering, 11 Oct 2008
A sad but very much needed work on the nasty realities of soldiering, this book recounts the very moving descent into unhappiness and despair some of McNab's best mates endured in the aftermath of service.

From this book it seems clear that the Regiment is an unnatural substitute for normal family life for young men, i.e., wife and kids are replaced by comradeship, which perhaps becomes foundational for a subsequent dysfunctional life for some of the guys. It means that when they leave there is a sense that they've lost the focus or foundation of their daily existence. And of course, the exposure to the cutting edge of modern military adventurism is the other key factor destabilising the mental health of special forces soldiers, with the inevitable horrible sights, sounds and loss of beloved friends. I couldn't help but conclude that, all the prestige notwithstanding, making it into the SAS is just not worth it for a lot, maybe even most, of the lads who manage it.

A few errors apart (i.e. Kesh RUC station was in Fermanagh, not Donegal, as the latter is part of the Republic of Ireland), the book is replete with fascinating anecdotes and occasional operational accounts, most notably in my native Northern Ireland, where, among my own community (the Protestants), the SAS are revered for their work at Loughgall in particular and against the IRA in general. Many of us would have liked to have seen them given a freer hand during the Troubles, as we are sure that had they been, there would be fewer of our friends and family lying dead in graveyards around the Province.

In closing, I am very pleased McNab wrote this and especially glad he disclosed so much of Frank Collins' story therein also. I was moved to tears at the kindness and sincerity of Collins as accounted in the book, so credit to McNab for not shying away from relating the man's religious convictions. In sum, this book shows us that even the elite forces are just human beings, amongst some of the most noble on the face of this earth. Highly recommended reading!

The Dambuster raid comes alive, 11 Nov 2008
There are many histories written about the Dams raid where you can glean the clinical facts - and there was the film ... but there's nothing like oral history to engage the imagination and bring you close to the people who were there. The Dambusters, far from being 'gung-ho' come over as men of enormous skill, courage and resourcefulness, with a strong camaraderie among the crews. Their own words ring true - some readily admit that Gibson wasn't universally popular - but none doubted his resolve and courage. The crews trained to the increasingly exacting demands by the designer of the new bomb - they recall hair-raising flying at just 60 feet, honing their bombing accuracy - and their accounts build the tension until, on the day of the raid, they learn their night's target and recall their emotions. The accounts of the flight out and the bomb runs on the dams are riveting as some aircraft and crews go down in flames - and as an added bonus, there are detailed recollections from Germans who found themselves under the breaking dams. It's a brilliant read and a great tribute to all involved in the raid, from Barnes Wallis and his work to develop the bomb, to Gibson and all his crews and ground crews of 617 Squadron. Can't recommend it enough.

Fabulous Fiction, 14 Nov 2008
This is real boys own stuff. What a story, if only it were true, which sadly the majority is not. If you like the old commando comics then this and Andy Mcnab's stuff will be right up your ally. But if you prefer to read about real heroics then go for some of the other books recounting the stories of our troops on HERRICK 5.

How do I know it's not true, well being in the AAC gives you an inside track.


Great read, 27 Oct 2008
Ed Macy describes his (many) experiences in the British Army / mainly Army Air Corps in superb detail (with the help of Tom Newton Dunn - defence correspondent for The Sun newspaper). The role and dedication of an Apache attack helicopter pilot / gunner is brought to life in scintillating style. This really is a cracking read - I cannot recommend it highly enough. Action packed, emotionally descriptive and technologically fascinating.

One Word Awesome, 27 Oct 2008
All I can say is 'Awesome' an awesome tale of an awesome machine.
10 out of 10.

top book, 25 Oct 2008
An excellent well written book that I bought without reading a review. got lucky this time! Finished it in 3 nights and has passed my acid test I will read it again

Absolutely Unbelievable - Brilliant, 23 Oct 2008
I am a 14 year old teen who really doesn't like reading, but once I read the first page of this book I couldn't put it down and I was genuinely sad when I finished it.

As well as giving 1st hand accounts of real missions in the apache, it brings life in the army to life, from how the Apache works to why they gave all the apaches the names of famous porn stars!

This book brought everything to life so well that when I finished it I really felt like I was missing the people from the book. It really puts you into the cockpit.

10/10 - 100/100 - 1000/1000 - This book it quality - read it.

3 Commando Brigade , 14 Nov 2008
If you want the real story of some pretty formidable heroics then this is the book to read about the Marines' tour in Helmand. It gives the true strength of character required and what the troops are having to go through during their tour of duty.

A gripping read.


Herrick 5, 01 Nov 2008
This is a well written account of 3 Commando Brigade's tour of duty in Helmand; one that we've already seen on Chris Terril's COMMANDO. The author (an old Falklands hand) balances some ripping tales of valour with an account of what the Brigade was trying to do on a more operational and strategic level. You see how the individual actions fitted in to the overall picture. At a chapter a month you see the operation unfold with lots of planning and lots of action. Kit-heads will find lots to enjoy as will those who wonder how the blazes you fight an enemy like the Taliban; very professionally, seems to be the answer.

The Marines at their best...READ IT!!!!!!!, 18 Sep 2008
It is always annoying when reading' that a mistake appears, something a proof reading should have picked up and yet is missed.Page 57, "on 8 October 2008 3 commando Brigade's brigadier, Jerry Thomas, formally took over from 16 air assault Brigade's brigadier, Ed Butler." If this was so then it has not happened yet!!!!
Having said that it takes nothing from the account of the marines in Afghanistan. I also like the fact that the Royal Engineers are mentioned often for the work that they have carried out.These boys are usually the unsung heroes in any conflict and at last they have been given recognition in this book.
It is written factually and contains many verbal anecdotes from the troops themselves. Along with the all important detail of action by troops and enemy alike, with good annalysis of equipment used, it aligns all parameters with intricate ability to bring all the supporting groups into the equation whilst still giving a first hand account of individual heroism in the field of battle.
I like the style of Ewen Southby-Tailyour and indeed found the opening prologue, detailing the Jugroom fort mission to rescue the body of Mathew Ford,an awesome account that puts this book on everyones must read list.


A smashing read, 12 Sep 2008
An absolutely smashing read - a true history but written in an 'approachable' manner as much for the lay person as the keen military historian. The photographs enhance the text perfectly.

Clearly written by a professional, military historian with no personal agenda and huge combat experience.

Cannot recommend it highly enough.


An incisive account of one of the most important sectors of the Allied offensive., 16 Aug 2008
It is very easy to lament the work done by Bomber Command in the mid to end years of the Second World War in Europe. This book does just that. But it also delves into the hearts of those who flew the bombers, the emotions of those who let loose the bomb doors, the feelings of those who shot at night-fighters. And the book's great achievement is in presenting a view that not only helps us understand the great personal sacrifice these men made, but the even greater emotional sacrifice they have suffered since the end of the war.
With some glaring grammatical mistakes, the book's editors should be sacked, but all in all, this is a highly endearing yet incisive account of one of the ugliest aspects of war, yet an aspect that greatly hastened the end of the suffering of Europe.

Should be compulsory reading!, 04 Jun 2008
This book is the best book I have read so far this year.

It describes the strategic air war against Germany by the RAF in the Second World War. That description makes it sound maybe a bit dry and academic but it is far from being either of those things! It tells the story of this chapter in the war from a very human point of view. For example, there are chapters describing the airmen's training, lives at their bases, their motivation, how they dealt with the fear of being killed whilst carrying out operation over Europe at night and many other highly interesting aspects of the lives of these remarkable men.

The book also describes the strategy behind the bombing of Germany, from the beginning to the end of the war and gives a good insight into the main commanders - people such as Charles Portal and Bomber Harris.

The story told in these pages is often very moving and I once I had finished the book I thought about it for a long time afterwards, quite unlike other books I have read. I felt great sympathy for all the men of Bomber Command, which has never had the vital role it played in World War II properly publicly acknowledged. I hope that this book will cause many to ask why this is so and perhaps focus efforts to have a permanent memorial specific to these men built, and to have this done before the last of them die and they recede from living memory.


A moving but balanced account., 01 Jun 2008
Bomber Boys brought tears to my eyes. It is a movingly written record and assessment of the horrors that aircrew endured during World War II. My father - a navigator in a 44 Squadron Lancaster - had told me on many occasions about his war service and I understood something of the difficulties. However, it was only by reading this book that one can put into perspective the terrible loss, the low chances of survival as well as the physical and mental strain of missions.
Nor does the book shirk from the real moral ambiguities of the campaign and follows through to officialdom's post-war embarrassment of their role. The book fills in many of the gaps that I did not appreciate when talking to my father and allows me now to understand how truly heroic his and his fellow aircrewmen's contribution was. I only wish that my father could have survived a couple more years to have enjoyed reading it.

The truth behind the Dam Busters' legend, 05 Apr 2008
It's been about five years since I read Bishop's Fighter Boys and since I heard he was writing Bomber Boys I've been eagerly awaiting its release. It has lived up to and surpassed my expectations. It is exactly as a history book should be: a harmonious marriage of personal stories and a view of the bigger picture, which in this case is the progress of the bombing campaign against Nazi Germany. It's only upon reading this that I discovered how little I knew about Bomber Command and the Second World War! It's shocking, really, to think that they might not have received as much recognition as their efforts deserved. Buy this book and be amazed!

Enormous cost, 18 Nov 2007
As the very proud son of a Lancaster Bomber Flight Engineer I have read many books on Bomber Command and this ranks as one of the best.It shows the undoubted bravery of the crews whilst questioning the need for mass bombing particularly towards the end of the war.It is a great reminder to those who have forgotten and to those who never realised what a sacrifice 55,000 brave young men gave for us all.

first light, 20 Nov 2008
Excellent, I thoroughly enjoyed the read. I,ve now flown a Spitfire, as a passenger of the author! My only criticism is the gaps that appear, it seems to jump missing what I would consider necessary to the storyline. However it is still a must read. My admiration for the author grew with every page, definately one of the "few".

Excellent. There is nothing like it, 02 Oct 2008
One of the best personal accounts of WWII have ever read.

Section where he is lost over Kent coast after a chase through heavy rain & low cloud & low on fuel had the hairs on my neck standing up.

A classic

Probably the finest personal account of any WW2 Serviceman, 19 Sep 2008
In many ways I wish I hadn't read this book. This must seem like an odd thing to say given that I've assigned this book 5 stars, but the problem is that this book is so good that I judge all autobiographies of this era by it, and nothing else (as yet) has come close. It really is one of the finest accounts of a serviceman's experiences in WW2. I have read many accounts of personal experiences in WW2 (I own around 60 books on this topic), and while many have been truly excellent, none have touched me in the same way as this book. Thoughtful, and thought provoking and with an honesty which makes the reader feel that they are inside that spitfire with him, this truly is a book that should be treasured. Geoffrey Wellum has written an account of WW2 through his eyes which will still be being read in hundreds of year's time.

Essential reading, 12 Sep 2008
Anybody with a passing interest in aviation or World War II that hasn't already done so should do themselves a favour and read this book.
It is truly touching, engaging and riveting, reading as intimately as if the author was sat across the table, relating the story first hand.
It bristles with detail and authenticity throughout and yet still manages to affect the reader emotionally with the intimate thoughts and reflections of the author in his darker and more fraught moments.
This book deserves to be read by the widest possible audience, especially given the complete omission of any Word War related lessons in schools these days. It truly is startling to consider the attitudes of the people back then: the sheer bravery and sacrifice.
I would truly love to shake the hand of this man, and the others like him who simply aren't given the respect and status they deserve. Absolute heroes. Geoffrey - thank you for this book and the sacrifice you and your generation made.

"First Light" is FIRST CLASS!, 12 May 2008
The number of reviews for this book should be recommendation enough, gripping from start to finish and a fitting tribute to all Battle of Britain pilots and not least Geoffrey Wellum himself!

Dull and sad, 18 Nov 2008
Not a lot going for this book. The author spends a lot of time explaining what broken and lost people some of his former comrades in arms are (most of this is described in other books by the people involved), and that war wrecks peoples lives so perhaps they need professional help. Not exactly news to anyone, one might think.

The Realities of Soldiering, 12 Nov 2008
Like his other non-fictional books, Seven Troop is an excellent read. In my opinion, his best to date. McNab describes in vivid detail, from his own experience, and that of his "Brothers in Arms" the reality of fighting "at the sharp end", and the effect it has on those individuals once they are no longer exposed to those dangers. His unselfish accounts of Frank Collins, Al Slater and in particular, Nish Bruce and Thomas Franks, highlight the problems surrounding PTSD, and the need for those in a position to do so, to provide the help and counselling these guys so desperately need.

Been there before, 07 Nov 2008
My reason for three stars is that I feel I've read most of it before in Bravo Two Zero. To be honest, I started to skip through it-Yet going back over the parts where McNab ?, like in other books, will keep on telling us and showing photos-of men who are no longer in this world. Please don't take me wrong, I am not saying that he is being unfeeling in this, but the men in question have got friends and loved one still around, and I think it about time the men were allowed to rest, and there families too. I fully agree in one thing he said, and that is that casualties of war, should not have to go to a secret place in Wales to recover from a thing that the Government has put them into. It should be there on a plate for them, showing them the respect they showed to the job they did.
In my opinion for what its worth. If you want a book on the Special Forces, you need to be reading Fighting Scared by Robin Horsfall, as he doesn't invade on other mens lives only his own.
Sorry Andy but thats the way I feel.

A Disagreement, 03 Nov 2008
I am going to have to disagree with the other reviewers. This book does nothing but rehash Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action. The fire fights in Northern Ireland, Nicky Smith's death, selection, The Gulf War, et al. They have been all gone over in McNab's two previous non fiction books.

Personally, I was hoping for something with more depth into operations, training, etc. However, I did not get that. Yes, I realize OPSEC is an issue. However, lets be real here folks, most of the information is on open forums now.

Another issue, he could have not been so heavy on the religious issues. Frank Collins is mentioned so heavily and his constant bible thumping, became "borish."

Finally, I would like to challenge (let the flames begin) McNab's statement he does not suffer from any sort of PTSD. A man who has been married 5 times, needs to really sit back, look in the mirror, and figure out exactly what HIS OWN personal problems are. There has to be something.

Mr McNab, if you write another non fiction book, I'd like to see you detail what you did AFTER the 1st Gulf War. What did you do in the SAS that one and a half years? That part of your life is totally missing from your fans.

High personal price of special forces soldiering, 11 Oct 2008
A sad but very much needed work on the nasty realities of soldiering, this book recounts the very moving descent into unhappiness and despair some of McNab's best mates endured in the aftermath of service.

From this book it seems clear that the Regiment is an unnatural substitute for normal family life for young men, i.e., wife and kids are replaced by comradeship, which perhaps becomes foundational for a subsequent dysfunctional life for some of the guys. It means that when they leave there is a sense that they've lost the focus or foundation of their daily existence. And of course, the exposure to the cutting edge of modern military adventurism is the other key factor destabilising the mental health of special forces soldiers, with the inevitable horrible sights, sounds and loss of beloved friends. I couldn't help but conclude that, all the prestige notwithstanding, making it into the SAS is just not worth it for a lot, maybe even most, of the lads who manage it.

A few errors apart (i.e. Kesh RUC station was in Fermanagh, not Donegal, as the latter is part of the Republic of Ireland), the book is replete with fascinating anecdotes and occasional operational accounts, most notably in my native Northern Ireland, where, among my own community (the Protestants), the SAS are revered for their work at Loughgall in particular and against the IRA in general. Many of us would have liked to have seen them given a freer hand during the Troubles, as we are sure that had they been, there would be fewer of our friends and family lying dead in graveyards around the Province.

In closing, I am very pleased McNab wrote this and especially glad he disclosed so much of Frank Collins' story therein also. I was moved to tears at the kindness and sincerity of Collins as accounted in the book, so credit to McNab for not shying away from relating the man's religious convictions. In sum, this book shows us that even the elite forces are just human beings, amongst some of the most noble on the face of this earth. Highly recommended reading!

The Dambuster raid comes alive, 11 Nov 2008
There are many histories written about the Dams raid where you can glean the clinical facts - and there was the film ... but there's nothing like oral history to engage the imagination and bring you close to the people who were there. The Dambusters, far from being 'gung-ho' come over as men of enormous skill, courage and resourcefulness, with a strong camaraderie among the crews. Their own words ring true - some readily admit that Gibson wasn't universally popular - but none doubted his resolve and courage. The crews trained to the increasingly exacting demands by the designer of the new bomb - they recall hair-raising flying at just 60 feet, honing their bombing accuracy - and their accounts build the tension until, on the day of the raid, they learn their night's target and recall their emotions. The accounts of the flight out and the bomb runs on the dams are riveting as some aircraft and crews go down in flames - and as an added bonus, there are detailed recollections from Germans who found themselves under the breaking dams. It's a brilliant read and a great tribute to all involved in the raid, from Barnes Wallis and his work to develop the bomb, to Gibson and all his crews and ground crews of 617 Squadron. Can't recommend it enough.

Fabulous Fiction, 14 Nov 2008
This is real boys own stuff. What a story, if only it were true, which sadly the majority is not. If you like the old commando comics then this and Andy Mcnab's stuff will be right up your ally. But if you prefer to read about real heroics then go for some of the other books recounting the stories of our troops on HERRICK 5.

How do I know it's not true, well being in the AAC gives you an inside track.


Great read, 27 Oct 2008
Ed Macy describes his (many) experiences in the British Army / mainly Army Air Corps in superb detail (with the help of Tom Newton Dunn - defence correspondent for The Sun newspaper). The role and dedication of an Apache attack helicopter pilot / gunner is brought to life in scintillating style. This really is a cracking read - I cannot recommend it highly enough. Action packed, emotionally descriptive and technologically fascinating.

One Word Awesome, 27 Oct 2008
All I can say is 'Awesome' an awesome tale of an awesome machine.
10 out of 10.

top book, 25 Oct 2008
An excellent well written book that I bought without reading a review. got lucky this time! Finished it in 3 nights and has passed my acid test I will read it again

Absolutely Unbelievable - Brilliant, 23 Oct 2008
I am a 14 year old teen who really doesn't like reading, but once I read the first page of this book I couldn't put it down and I was genuinely sad when I finished it.

As well as giving 1st hand accounts of real missions in the apache, it brings life in the army to life, from how the Apache works to why they gave all the apaches the names of famous porn stars!

This book brought everything to life so well that when I finished it I really felt like I was missing the people from the book. It really puts you into the cockpit.

10/10 - 100/100 - 1000/1000 - This book it quality - read it.

3 Commando Brigade , 14 Nov 2008
If you want the real story of some pretty formidable heroics then this is the book to read about the Marines' tour in Helmand. It gives the true strength of character required and what the troops are having to go through during their tour of duty.

A gripping read.


Herrick 5, 01 Nov 2008
This is a well written account of 3 Commando Brigade's tour of duty in Helmand; one that we've already seen on Chris Terril's COMMANDO. The author (an old Falklands hand) balances some ripping tales of valour with an account of what the Brigade was trying to do on a more operational and strategic level. You see how the individual actions fitted in to the overall picture. At a chapter a month you see the operation unfold with lots of planning and lots of action. Kit-heads will find lots to enjoy as will those who wonder how the blazes you fight an enemy like the Taliban; very professionally, seems to be the answer.

The Marines at their best...READ IT!!!!!!!, 18 Sep 2008
It is always annoying when reading' that a mistake appears, something a proof reading should have picked up and yet is missed.Page 57, "on 8 October 2008 3 commando Brigade's brigadier, Jerry Thomas, formally took over from 16 air assault Brigade's brigadier, Ed Butler." If this was so then it has not happened yet!!!!
Having said that it takes nothing from the account of the marines in Afghanistan. I also like the fact that the Royal Engineers are mentioned often for the work that they have carried out.These boys are usually the unsung heroes in any conflict and at last they have been given recognition in this book.
It is written factually and contains many verbal anecdotes from the troops themselves. Along with the all important detail of action by troops and enemy alike, with good annalysis of equipment used, it aligns all parameters with intricate ability to bring all the supporting groups into the equation whilst still giving a first hand account of individual heroism in the field of battle.
I like the style of Ewen Southby-Tailyour and indeed found the opening prologue, detailing the Jugroom fort mission to rescue the body of Mathew Ford,an awesome account that puts this book on everyones must read list.


A smashing read, 12 Sep 2008
An absolutely smashing read - a true history but written in an 'approachable' manner as much for the lay person as the keen military historian. The photographs enhance the text perfectly.

Clearly written by a professional, military historian with no personal agenda and huge combat experience.

Cannot recommend it highly enough.


An incisive account of one of the most important sectors of the Allied offensive., 16 Aug 2008
It is very easy to lament the work done by Bomber Command in the mid to end years of the Second World War in Europe. This book does just that. But it also delves into the hearts of those who flew the bombers, the emotions of those who let loose the bomb doors, the feelings of those who shot at night-fighters. And the book's great achievement is in presenting a view that not only helps us understand the great personal sacrifice these men made, but the even greater emotional sacrifice they have suffered since the end of the war.
With some glaring grammatical mistakes, the book's editors should be sacked, but all in all, this is a highly endearing yet incisive account of one of the ugliest aspects of war, yet an aspect that greatly hastened the end of the suffering of Europe.

Should be compulsory reading!, 04 Jun 2008
This book is the best book I have read so far this year.

It describes the strategic air war against Germany by the RAF in the Second World War. That description makes it sound maybe a bit dry and academic but it is far from being either of those things! It tells the story of this chapter in the war from a very human point of view. For example, there are chapters describing the airmen's training, lives at their bases, their motivation, how they dealt with the fear of being killed whilst carrying out operation over Europe at night and many other highly interesting aspects of the lives of these remarkable men.

The book also describes the strategy behind the bombing of Germany, from the beginning to the end of the war and gives a good insight into the main commanders - people such as Charles Portal and Bomber Harris.

The story told in these pages is often very moving and I once I had finished the book I thought about it for a long time afterwards, quite unlike other books I have read. I felt great sympathy for all the men of Bomber Command, which has never had the vital role it played in World War II properly publicly acknowledged. I hope that this book will cause many to ask why this is so and perhaps focus efforts to have a permanent memorial specific to these men built, and to have this done before the last of them die and they recede from living memory.


A moving but balanced account., 01 Jun 2008
Bomber Boys brought tears to my eyes. It is a movingly written record and assessment of the horrors that aircrew endured during World War II. My father - a navigator in a 44 Squadron Lancaster - had told me on many occasions about his war service and I understood something of the difficulties. However, it was only by reading this book that one can put into perspective the terrible loss, the low chances of survival as well as the physical and mental strain of missions.
Nor does the book shirk from the real moral ambiguities of the campaign and follows through to officialdom's post-war embarrassment of their role. The book fills in many of the gaps that I did not appreciate when talking to my father and allows me now to understand how truly heroic his and his fellow aircrewmen's contribution was. I only wish that my father could have survived a couple more years to have enjoyed reading it.

The truth behind the Dam Busters' legend, 05 Apr 2008
It's been about five years since I read Bishop's Fighter Boys and since I heard he was writing Bomber Boys I've been eagerly awaiting its release. It has lived up to and surpassed my expectations. It is exactly as a history book should be: a harmonious marriage of personal stories and a view of the bigger picture, which in this case is the progress of the bombing campaign against Nazi Germany. It's only upon reading this that I discovered how little I knew about Bomber Command and the Second World War! It's shocking, really, to think that they might not have received as much recognition as their efforts deserved. Buy this book and be amazed!

Enormous cost, 18 Nov 2007
As the very proud son of a Lancaster Bomber Flight Engineer I have read many books on Bomber Command and this ranks as one of the best.It shows the undoubted bravery of the crews whilst questioning the need for mass bombing particularly towards the end of the war.It is a great reminder to those who have forgotten and to those who never realised what a sacrifice 55,000 brave young men gave for us all.

first light, 20 Nov 2008
Excellent, I thoroughly enjoyed the read. I,ve now flown a Spitfire, as a passenger of the author! My only criticism is the gaps that appear, it seems to jump missing what I would consider necessary to the storyline. However it is still a must read. My admiration for the author grew with every page, definately one of the "few".

Excellent. There is nothing like it, 02 Oct 2008
One of the best personal accounts of WWII have ever read.

Section where he is lost over Kent coast after a chase through heavy rain & low cloud & low on fuel had the hairs on my neck standing up.

A classic

Probably the finest personal account of any WW2 Serviceman, 19 Sep 2008
In many ways I wish I hadn't read this book. This must seem like an odd thing to say given that I've assigned this book 5 stars, but the problem is that this book is so good that I judge all autobiographies of this era by it, and nothing else (as yet) has come close. It really is one of the finest accounts of a serviceman's experiences in WW2. I have read many accounts of personal experiences in WW2 (I own around 60 books on this topic), and while many have been truly excellent, none have touched me in the same way as this book. Thoughtful, and thought provoking and with an honesty which makes the reader feel that they are inside that spitfire with him, this truly is a book that should be treasured. Geoffrey Wellum has written an account of WW2 through his eyes which will still be being read in hundreds of year's time.

Essential reading, 12 Sep 2008
Anybody with a passing interest in aviation or World War II that hasn't already done so should do themselves a favour and read this book.
It is truly touching, engaging and riveting, reading as intimately as if the author was sat across the table, relating the story first hand.
It bristles with detail and authenticity throughout and yet still manages to affect the reader emotionally with the intimate thoughts and reflections of the author in his darker and more fraught moments.
This book deserves to be read by the widest possible audience, especially given the complete omission of any Word War related lessons in schools these days. It truly is startling to consider the attitudes of the people back then: the sheer bravery and sacrifice.
I would truly love to shake the hand of this man, and the others like him who simply aren't given the respect and status they deserve. Absolute heroes. Geoffrey - thank you for this book and the sacrifice you and your generation made.

"First Light" is FIRST CLASS!, 12 May 2008
The number of reviews for this book should be recommendation enough, gripping from start to finish and a fitting tribute to all Battle of Britain pilots and not least Geoffrey Wellum himself!

Not what I was expecting , 10 Nov 2008
I received this book as a free gift as part of a magazine subscription so I can't really complain too much. The book is well produced and relatively interesting as it tells the Spitfire story from a different point of view (that of a restorer). But I must say I am disappointed as I had built a mental picture of what the book was going to be like and in reality it is very different. Being a Haynes manual I expected it to be similar to their car workshop manuals but for a Spitfire. That is it would tell you had to strip down, replace, repair and service your spitfire with lots of detailed exploded diagrams and photos. I don't own a Spitfire so it wouldn't have been of practical value but all the same, would have been quite interesting. In reality the only thing common to the Haynes car workshop manual is the layout and look of the front cover. Instead the book is largely anecdotal about spitfires that have been found and restored. It's still okay but I'd have been disappointed with it if I had paid for it and would have considered seeking a refund. My advice would be not to dismiss it outright on the basis of my review but please try and look at it before purchase to see if it is what you'd expect and want.

Cheers, Nigel

useful & fun !!, 28 Apr 2008
Although not an exhaustive technical chronology of this iconic plane this book is a very revealing perspective from various angles. Especially appealing to the non expert it exposes information that would normally be difficult to aquire.
Particularly interesting are the practical issues of flying the Spit today , respect is due to those with the wallet & fortitude to provide the vast majority with the joy of watching it in action !!
Refreshing and worth it's place on the bookshelf.

Spitfire Manual - An opportunity missed, 03 Mar 2008
Those of us that have used Haynes manuals for car maintenance would have expected similar technical coverage for the Spitfire.
And for an aircraft that evolved from a lightweight fighter (Max weight Mk1 = 6,200lb) to a heavy naval strike fighter (max weight Mk47 = 12,750lb) what an evolution that was. That beautiful elliptical wing went through several variants to cope with the weight, performance and armament increase - and the naval version had folding wings.
It would have been wonderful to see, in true Haynes style, how the design team, under Joe Smith, coped with the continual operational pressure to keep the Spitfire the best fighter in the world but unfortunately this was not to be.
The Spitfire Manual is "just another Spitfire Book", it has some excellent photographic artwork and briefly attempts to cover the development and the use of the aircraft.
About a third of the book covers, in photographs, the rebuilding of an RAF Memorial Flight Aircraft but as for that technical coverage, do not look here.
Pity - I would have kept my copy if it had.