James Holland was born in Salisbury, Wiltshire, and studied history at Durham University. A member of the British Commission for Military History and the Guild of Battlefield Guides, he also regularly contributes reviews and articles in national newspapers and magazines and appears on national radio. His books include Fortress Malta, Italy's Sorrow, The Battle of Britain and his fictional WW2 series featuring Sergeant Jack Tanner. He has also made acclaimed television programmes on the Battle of Britain and the Dambusters raid for BBC. His many interviews with veterans of the Second World War are available at the Imperial War Museum and are also archived on www.secondworldwarforum.com.
In his previous books... Holland combined a lively style with fresh insights based on deep historical research. Those qualities shine through this new account * Literary Review * Though it is such a well-known story, it has never been told in such depth before. James Holland has mastered every detail * Daily Mail * Holland tells the story with gusto and pace... he has truly and brilliantly plugged an enormous gap * Mail on Sunday *