Hachette Fortress Malta: An Island Under Siege 1940-1943

I read one review of this book which suggested that "this is not one of Holland's best, albeit a good debut!"Well I couldn't disagree more; in my opinion this is one of this brilliant author's most enjoyable reads. Granted, I read it whilst on holiday in Malta (which may have helped tinge my view) but I couldn't put it down. Holland's ability to convey sometimes complex historical tales via the use of interwoven stories relating to the individuals concerned, is unrivalled. In terms of this genre of factual, history writing, I believe he has no equal.I automatically buy any historical book written by James Holland and will continue to do so, he never disappoints.As for the Malta story - he tells it here in the most enjoyable manner, bringing the characters to life in a way which gives the book a pacy-fiction feel. At times I was literally speed reading in order to find out what happened next to the characters that I had become to regard as friends.... such is the way that James Holland writes.In my opinion, an excellent book - well worth reading!

Enjoyed reading this book which was well researched and written. Have always known Malta by the name Malta G.C. (George Cross) and am happy to have links to the island moreso to learn of it's rightfully proud and historically super-significant stand against the mightiest onslaught Nazi Germany and her allies could muster at that time.If you would like to read and learn more of how under the greatest pressure and without the normally necessary weaponry, manpower and logistics a tiny island in the Mediterranean held out against Goering's Luftwaffe and Italy's Aeroflottilla for quite some time and how a mere handful of pilots (some thought they were delivering new craft then going home ! sorry if spolied) showed the world what the best can do when need be.Great book about a great island and an even greater era of giants, upon whose shoulders....

First non-fiction book written by Holland, and sets the standard/style by which his later books build. It largely concentrates on the 'little people' in any conflict, but does give coverage to the publicly recognised hero's and war commanders. However it his small stories of individual fortitude and bravery that fills in the gaps of the greater story unfolding; namely, the survival of an island and its people right under the noses of the Axis powers in the Mediterranian. Its a small miracle how it survived, with the story building up to the make or break convoy (Pedestal) taking in essential supplies. Never too technical that it would not be enjoyed by a non-military enthusiast, it unfortunately had just insufficient 'action' for me, therefore knocking a star off, but for a first book, it was an excellent read. Having read many others of his fiction and NF books, I like his style, but if forced ranked, this is not one of his best.

Well-written book. Bought as present for partner to bring with him on our next Malta holiday. He's read other, similar, books, but not this one. Glanced through it and thought, "Yes, a good read". So all in all, a nice buy for anyone interested in the war years and the courage of the Maltese people. Incidentally, we find that the Maltese in general still think well of British people, and we receive a warm welcome when on holiday there. They (older generation, like ourselves) are very happy to discuss the war years, and they're grateful for our defence of their island. We don't bring it up - they do. Anyway, a decent book!

I brought this book before a trip to Malta and hoped to read before visiting, but plans don't always work out, and in fact I enjoyed the second half of the book as much after the trip as before. This is excellent reading - a clear timeline of the significant events that happened on and around Malta in WW2, highlighted by the personal stories and recollections of Maltese and visiting British servicemen and women and the trials and sometimes tragedies that accompanied a period of intense struggle and sacrifice. Perhaps Malta's role in that conflict has become a little dimmed with time, but reading this book brings it back to life again and the fortitude and stubbornness of a previous generation in its struggle for a free Europe is nicely rendered here. Highly recommended by an avid reader of much history.