Defiant

In Defiant, Robert Verkaik presents a gripping and meticulously researched account of an often-overlooked aspect of the Battle of Britain. The narrative centres around the Boulton Paul Defiant, a two-seat gun-turret fighter that played a vital yet largely unacknowledged role in this crucial period of the Second World War. Verkaik's painstaking research uncovers the remarkable story of the Defiant and its brave crews, who fought valiantly despite being overshadowed by the more celebrated Spitfires and Hurricanes. Through the eyes of the pilots and air-gunners, the book provides a vivid portrayal of the aerial combat and the intense human experiences behind the machine. No stone is left unturned as Verkaik delves into the political and military decision-making processes that influenced the use and development of the Defiant. He explores the inter-service rivalries, the bureaucratic infighting, and the strategic blunders that shaped the fate of this peculiar aircraft. The author's dedication to uncovering the truth is evident in his thorough examination of Whitehall papers and personal letters from airmen, giving readers an intimate glimpse into the lives of those who flew the Defiant. Robert Verkaik makes a compelling case for the Defiant as the forgotten fighter of Dunkirk and the Battle of Britain. He highlights the aircraft's most significant achievements, including a Defiant squadron setting the record for the number of enemy aircraft shot down in a single day with a claimed figure of 38. This feat, often excluded from standard historical accounts, underscores the effectiveness and bravery of the Defiant crews. The book has garnered praise for its exhaustive detail and narrative flair. Mark Urban commends Verkaik for bringing the Defiant fighter back into focus as an essential part of the RAF's victory during their greatest trial. David Kynaston, author of Austerity Britain, appreciates the meticulous research that enriches the story with human, social, and military interest, filling a crucial gap in our understanding of that perilous time. David Fairhead, director of Spitfire, lauds the book for establishing the Defiant's role in the crucial aerial battles of 1940 and elevating the brave aircrews to the same esteemed rank as their comrades who flew Hurricanes and Spitfires. Simon Humphreys of the Mail on Sunday describes Verkaik as an excellent guide, praising his work for its restrained passion and exhaustive research, which pays homage to the human dimension behind the losses. Defiant is both a stirring testament to the courage of the men who flew the aircraft and a welcome new examination of one of the Second World War's most famous conflicts. Alexander Larman of the Observer considers it a valuable contribution to our historical understanding, documenting a significant yet overlooked piece of aviation history. In Defiant, Verkaik ultimately sets the record straight, demonstrating the Defiant's crucial role and the extraordinary bravery of its crews. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in the intricate history of the Battle of Britain and the unsung heroes who fought in the sky.