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Speed, Aggression, Surprise

The Secret Origins of the Special Air Service
By Tom Petch
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Speed, Aggression, Surprise by Tom Petch offers an insightful exploration into the birth and development of Britain's elite Special Air Service (SAS) during World War II. The book delves into how a small band of soldiers utilised unconventional tactics to conduct daring raids behind enemy lines. This historical narrative combines detailed research with gripping storytelling to illuminate the audacious strategies that defined the SAS's early years.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you have an interest in the dynamics of military tactics and history. It delves into the intricacies of warfare strategy, focusing on the themes of speed, aggression, and surprise in military operations. Perfect for enthusiasts of military history and those curious about the strategic minds behind renowned military tactics.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Ex-SAS Commander and award-winning filmmaker provides a fascinating, myth-busting story of the REAL origins of the SAS, for fans of Ben Macintyre.

'Awesome!' ANDY McNAB | 'You must read this book' Colonel TIM COLLINS OBE | 'Extraordinary' Sir RANULPH FIENNES

Forget what you thought you knew. Discover the REAL story of how the SAS was created.

From ex-SAS Commander Tom Petch, this is the never-before-told story of how the world's preeminent Special Forces came into existence. Flashing between dramatic accounts from the frontlines and power negotiations in Westminster, it's an adventure that reaches from the trenches of the Western Front to piracy in the deserts of North Africa, to the final assault on Germany.

Drawing on hidden archives and told with captivating drama, it focuses on two characters largely overlooked in the traditional narrative - Dudley Clarke the mastermind, and William Fraser the frontline operator. Without them there would never have been an SAS.

'Gripping and fascinating... Packed with unforgettable characters and thrilling adventures' WILL IREDALE, bestselling author of The Pathfinders

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The book Speed, Aggression, Surprise by Tom Petch is praised for its captivating and thoroughly researched account of the origins of the Special Forces, specifically the SAS. Reviewers highlight its engaging storytelling, which reveals a more complex and inspiring tale than previously known, including insights into the lesser-known figures who played crucial roles. The narrative is recognised for its depth, fresh perspective, and ability to strip myth from reality while celebrating the achievements of these elite forces.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780753559406

Publisher: Ebury Publishing

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 20 July 2023

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: W H Allen

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 30.0mm

Width: 126.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 356g

Pages: 496

Collections

Education & Reference History & Archaeology History & Military Military History Non-Fiction Penguin Books Tom Petch

About the Author

Tom Petch served for eight years in the British Army, as a tank commander, adjutant, aide de camp and a Troop Commander of 22 SAS. His military experience gives him a unique perspective on recently declassified archives, operation reports, accounts and interviews of the original SAS and their commanders. He is now an award-winning film director and producer whose debut film, The Patrol, won the Raindance Film Festival. He is also the great-great-great-grandson of Samuel Shepheard, who founded Shepheard's Hotel in Cairo where the SAS was born.

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