From as early as he can remember, Michael Grant has been around aircraft. Now aged 22, he is a newly commissioned Pilot Officer in RAF Fighter Command. Posted to a Hurricane squadron in July 1940 he finds himself thrown into the fighting over the southeast of England, a conflict that will be immortalised as the Battle of Britain.
On Wings As Eagles is the story of those fateful months as seen through Michael's eyes. It is also a story of love and friendship, of how he deals with falling in love in sharp contrast to his daily fight for survival in the carnage filled skies. Faced with the loss of his friends and the brutality of war Michael fights to cling on to all that he holds dear. As he moves from innocence to experience then finally exhaustion, Michael's battle mirrors that of Fighter Command itself. As the fighting reaches its explosive climax over London in September he wonders how he can keep going and how high the final cost will be.
Although a work of fiction, this is a factual account of the Battle peopled by fictional characters. A thoroughly enjoyable read whether one is a historian or simply looking for a good book. Highly recommended!
This is quite a long book that I thought might be heavy going at first but it soon picked up the pace. It was a very good account of what mostly very young, inexperienced pilots had to face and reflects on the high level of attrition experienced by the frontline squadrons. The lead characters are engaging and one finds oneself rooting for them. (I've been impressed by the amount of alcohol the airmen allegedly put away at night then went to fight the next morning with a serious hangover; there were no breathalisers then!) The story builds well to the climax of September 15 even though one knows what's coming. It was an effective blend of well researched facts end enjoyable fiction. An entertaining book that I would recommend.
A brilliant account of the lead up to and covering the Battle of Britain. Flying side well researched and the inclusion of Winnie a master stroke particularly including his body guard Thompson! Great insights into the psychology and attitude of the very brave pilots and support staff who helped win the battle of Britain !
A cracking book , really enjoyed the danger , triumph , loss etc of Michael and his pilot companions . Gave you a sense of hope and determination to win over in the end . Good read , well recommend.
It has obviously been well researched and is very well written, keeps the readers interest throughout and it gives a insight into the life of the young pilot's that took part. I would recommend this book to anyone who has got an interest in the Battle of Britain.