The contents page maps an unusually broad maritime route through the Second World War: Norway, Dunkirk, the Atlantic, Mediterranean, Far East, Arctic, Overlord, and the return east. The sequence follows the Royal Navy and its allies through early reverses, global campaigns, changing ships and aircraft, and the final return to eastern waters. At 259 pages, its value lies in breadth, giving readers a rapid naval frame for seeing how these theatres connected. It closes by noting that the French Marine Nationale had more ships than the Royal Navy for the first time in history.
Chapter · 2:19-3:51
A Royal Navy-centred survey of the war
The review outlines a compact history that follows the Royal Navy and Allied navies from the opening campaigns to the postwar balance of fleets.