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Desperate Venture: The Story of Operation Torch, the Allied Invasion of North Africa
The year is 1942
In the dark, early-morning hours of November 8th, an armada larger and mightier than ever before assembled and took up positions at points off the coast of North-West Africa.
Its mission was to launch Operation Torch, the first massive Allied offensive operation of World War Two.
This is the story of the most crucial campaigns of World War Two.
It is an account of Operation Torch and of the start of the process that led to the destruction of Adolf Hitler’s Third Reich.
Torch — the Allied invasion and conquest of North Africa — was an intricate enterprise. More than five hundred American and British warships, supply vessels, and troop transports were taking part. It involved political intrigue, espionage, conspiracy, a massive disinformation campaign, a muddled coup d’état, the most momentous amphibious assault ever undertaken until then, and the transformation of half-trained, pummelled troops into victorious warriors.
Norman Gelb masterfully weaves these various elements into an absorbing account of an historic moment. He describes how the Allies, their military prospects grim early in the war, agonised on how and where to expend their still slender resources on their first major offensive operation; how Winston Churchill 'hijacked’ the direction of Allied strategy from America’s generals who wanted to fight the war a different way; how Eisenhower, the Torch supreme commander, was often out of his depth but nevertheless forged an effective, harmonious Anglo-American military alliance; how the attitudes of Vichy France and Franco’s Spain distorted invasion calculations; how arch rivals Montgomery and Rommel influenced the course of events; and how, finally, for better or worse, Operation Torch determined the Allied strategy for most of the rest of the war.
A senior American diplomat has called Operation Torch the most important decision made in the struggle against Hitler.
Desperate Venture shows how and why in a meticulously researched and highly detailed narrative account of one of the most crucial operations in World War Two.
NORMAN GELB was born in New York and is the author of seven highly acclaimed books, including The Berlin Wall, A Narrative History of the Battle of Britain, and Less Than Glory. He was, for many years, correspondent for the Mutual Broadcasting System, first in Berlin and then in London. He is currently the London correspondent for New Leader magazine.
In the dark, early-morning hours of November 8th, an armada larger and mightier than ever before assembled and took up positions at points off the coast of North-West Africa.
Its mission was to launch Operation Torch, the first massive Allied offensive operation of World War Two.
This is the story of the most crucial campaigns of World War Two.
It is an account of Operation Torch and of the start of the process that led to the destruction of Adolf Hitler’s Third Reich.
Torch — the Allied invasion and conquest of North Africa — was an intricate enterprise. More than five hundred American and British warships, supply vessels, and troop transports were taking part. It involved political intrigue, espionage, conspiracy, a massive disinformation campaign, a muddled coup d’état, the most momentous amphibious assault ever undertaken until then, and the transformation of half-trained, pummelled troops into victorious warriors.
Norman Gelb masterfully weaves these various elements into an absorbing account of an historic moment. He describes how the Allies, their military prospects grim early in the war, agonised on how and where to expend their still slender resources on their first major offensive operation; how Winston Churchill 'hijacked’ the direction of Allied strategy from America’s generals who wanted to fight the war a different way; how Eisenhower, the Torch supreme commander, was often out of his depth but nevertheless forged an effective, harmonious Anglo-American military alliance; how the attitudes of Vichy France and Franco’s Spain distorted invasion calculations; how arch rivals Montgomery and Rommel influenced the course of events; and how, finally, for better or worse, Operation Torch determined the Allied strategy for most of the rest of the war.
A senior American diplomat has called Operation Torch the most important decision made in the struggle against Hitler.
Desperate Venture shows how and why in a meticulously researched and highly detailed narrative account of one of the most crucial operations in World War Two.
NORMAN GELB was born in New York and is the author of seven highly acclaimed books, including The Berlin Wall, A Narrative History of the Battle of Britain, and Less Than Glory. He was, for many years, correspondent for the Mutual Broadcasting System, first in Berlin and then in London. He is currently the London correspondent for New Leader magazine.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 8, 2018
100 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
September 7, 2014
Desperate Venture: The Story of Operation Torch, the Allied Invasion of North Africa is a respectable introduction to the campaign surrounding the Allied amphibious landings in French North Africa during Word War II. I cannot with honesty say I learned much that was new, but it was written in an enjoyably breezy journalistic manner.
October 19, 2023
Reads like a history book
I am interested in world war two and read many books about it.
The detail expressed in this novel was exceptional, it most certainly required a lot of research, but a bit wordy
I am interested in world war two and read many books about it.
The detail expressed in this novel was exceptional, it most certainly required a lot of research, but a bit wordy
February 1, 2025
Review of Desperate Venture: The Story of Operation Torch, the Allied Invasion of North Africa by Norman Gelb
Desperate Venture offers a thorough and highly engaging account of one of World War II’s most significant military operations—Operation Torch, the Allied invasion of North Africa. Norman Gelb takes the reader through the complexities of the operation, which involved political maneuvering, military strategy, and high-stakes decision-making. This detailed narrative reveals how Operation Torch not only marked the first large-scale Allied offensive against Nazi forces but also set the stage for the eventual destruction of Hitler’s Third Reich.
Key Themes and Events:
• Operation Torch’s Strategic Importance: The book outlines how this operation was pivotal in securing the Allies’ foothold in North Africa, marking the beginning of a strategic shift in the war. Gelb captures how the operation faced challenges, from logistical issues to political tensions, and yet proved essential in the defeat of Axis powers in the region.
• The Role of Winston Churchill: The influence of Winston Churchill’s leadership during Operation Torch is given significant attention. Gelb’s portrayal of Churchill’s strategic decisions underscores his ability to maneuver through complex political terrain while ensuring that the operation went forward despite numerous challenges.
• The Strategic Interplay Between Allies: The book delves into the interactions between the British, American, and French forces, highlighting the complexities of Allied cooperation. The tensions, misunderstandings, and eventual collaboration of these powers are explored in depth, showcasing the delicate balance between different military and political priorities.
• The Personalities and Leadership of Key Figures: Gelb’s focus on key military figures, such as Eisenhower and Montgomery, reveals how leadership dynamics influenced the success of Operation Torch. The book highlights how different approaches and personalities contributed to the eventual triumph of the mission.
Churchill’s Leadership:
Gelb examines Churchill’s unwavering determination to shift the focus of the war from Europe to North Africa, illustrating how he “hijacked” the direction of Allied military strategy. His ability to influence military leaders and keep the Allies unified in their efforts is emphasized as a critical factor in the operation’s success.
Notable Quotes:
• “Operation Torch was more than just an invasion. It was the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany in North Africa and the broader Mediterranean theater.”
• “Winston Churchill’s strategic decisions ensured that the Allies had the advantage, despite the difficulties.”
Final Verdict:
Desperate Venture is an essential read for anyone interested in the military history of World War II. Gelb’s meticulous research and compelling narrative style make this book both informative and engaging. The deep dive into the political and military intricacies of Operation Torch offers invaluable insight into how one of the most critical operations of the war unfolded. It is a must-read for students of military strategy, history, and World War II enthusiasts.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Desperate Venture offers a thorough and highly engaging account of one of World War II’s most significant military operations—Operation Torch, the Allied invasion of North Africa. Norman Gelb takes the reader through the complexities of the operation, which involved political maneuvering, military strategy, and high-stakes decision-making. This detailed narrative reveals how Operation Torch not only marked the first large-scale Allied offensive against Nazi forces but also set the stage for the eventual destruction of Hitler’s Third Reich.
Key Themes and Events:
• Operation Torch’s Strategic Importance: The book outlines how this operation was pivotal in securing the Allies’ foothold in North Africa, marking the beginning of a strategic shift in the war. Gelb captures how the operation faced challenges, from logistical issues to political tensions, and yet proved essential in the defeat of Axis powers in the region.
• The Role of Winston Churchill: The influence of Winston Churchill’s leadership during Operation Torch is given significant attention. Gelb’s portrayal of Churchill’s strategic decisions underscores his ability to maneuver through complex political terrain while ensuring that the operation went forward despite numerous challenges.
• The Strategic Interplay Between Allies: The book delves into the interactions between the British, American, and French forces, highlighting the complexities of Allied cooperation. The tensions, misunderstandings, and eventual collaboration of these powers are explored in depth, showcasing the delicate balance between different military and political priorities.
• The Personalities and Leadership of Key Figures: Gelb’s focus on key military figures, such as Eisenhower and Montgomery, reveals how leadership dynamics influenced the success of Operation Torch. The book highlights how different approaches and personalities contributed to the eventual triumph of the mission.
Churchill’s Leadership:
Gelb examines Churchill’s unwavering determination to shift the focus of the war from Europe to North Africa, illustrating how he “hijacked” the direction of Allied military strategy. His ability to influence military leaders and keep the Allies unified in their efforts is emphasized as a critical factor in the operation’s success.
Notable Quotes:
• “Operation Torch was more than just an invasion. It was the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany in North Africa and the broader Mediterranean theater.”
• “Winston Churchill’s strategic decisions ensured that the Allies had the advantage, despite the difficulties.”
Final Verdict:
Desperate Venture is an essential read for anyone interested in the military history of World War II. Gelb’s meticulous research and compelling narrative style make this book both informative and engaging. The deep dive into the political and military intricacies of Operation Torch offers invaluable insight into how one of the most critical operations of the war unfolded. It is a must-read for students of military strategy, history, and World War II enthusiasts.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
April 2, 2022
WW2 North Africa - Operation Torch without illuminating maps
British sources seem the sources for much of the allied and French political discussions. Two factors effecting American operations are ignored. The naval forces used in the Pacific were under construction by Pearl Harbor and could not have been sued in the Atlantic; the battles of Coral Sea and Midway defended Australia and New Zealand. A few simple maps would have added to understanding the landings and campaign.
British sources seem the sources for much of the allied and French political discussions. Two factors effecting American operations are ignored. The naval forces used in the Pacific were under construction by Pearl Harbor and could not have been sued in the Atlantic; the battles of Coral Sea and Midway defended Australia and New Zealand. A few simple maps would have added to understanding the landings and campaign.
May 28, 2023
Great Book
The author has written a great book, he left out some key battles that the Americans were involved in. He makes a good point that D-Day should have been sooner. Overall, a great analysis of Operation Torch!
The author has written a great book, he left out some key battles that the Americans were involved in. He makes a good point that D-Day should have been sooner. Overall, a great analysis of Operation Torch!
September 9, 2023
Well done
Very good read but could have been less wordy. Post Kasserine action short changed. But still the best account of Allied dealing with the French.
Very good read but could have been less wordy. Post Kasserine action short changed. But still the best account of Allied dealing with the French.
July 12, 2016
To assist Rusia by opening a second front, the Allies were not ready to invade France. Instead an invasion was launched from the Atlantic side of Northern Africa. Most of the American force sailed direct from the United States.
October 3, 2016
Ok book but without accompanying illustrations much of the narrative gets buried in dry facts and statements.
May 25, 2011
aA good account and analysis of the invasion of North Africa. It details the problems faced.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews