The Last Lion: Winston Spencer Churchill: Defender of the Realm, 1940-1965

Outstanding piece of literature ! This book is exceptionally well written , detailed and highly and easily readable. In particular the first 50 pages or so, give the very best overview of Winston Churchill that I have have ever read, anywhere. These first introductory pages are superbly written, and give any reader a short, but highly comprehensive insight into this great man. The book thereafter is in chronological order, starting at his appointment as Prime Minister. As well covering all the many aspects of the progress of the war, the book contains intriguing accounts of the machinations of British politics throughout this hectic period. It regularly surprises the reader with additional "tit bits" about Churchill, his whims and fancies, as well as explaining his many controversial decisions. This really is a comprehensive book. It is part of a trilogy true, but frankly anyone interesed in discovering just what Churchill represented, how he conducted himself, how he dealt with so many controversial issues - and there were dozens and dozens of these during the 6 years of war - should at least read this single volume. It is never dry, never dull, never boring. It entertains, informs and draws admiration for this huge figure of British life, culture and above all, history. Apart from the occasional "Americanism " in the written word - eg.,"railroad" instead of "railway" etc. - this book is without fault. Excellent reading and VERY highly recommended

One could say that The Last Lion : Defender of the Realm is as much a history of the Second World War as it is a biography of Churchill during this period. The war and its aftermath are covered in a dramatic writing style with a focus on Churchill’s role and how he viewed and impacted the events. The authors strike a good balance between the historical events and the personal details, such that the history is brought to life. It is a long book but fast-paced, well-written and never dull. The 2012 hardcover edition is a substantial high-quality volume.

Based onthis book which ends the trilogy, I bought the first two that i have only skimmed, but look equally good. you need a lot of free time to wade through this trilogy, but it is worthwhile if you enjoy history with a capital H.

I emphasise that my four stars award stands for the Kindle edition of this book. The dramatic pace of the narrative is first-rate and the story of Churchill's central role in World War Two is told with clarity and in absorbing detail. So far, so good. The problem lies in the Kindle text itself where something has gone disastrously wrong with the punctuation and the spelling. Commas are scattered around and bear no relation to the sentence structures, and many words have been wrongly spelled. It appears to be a mechanical or computer problem and not an editorial failing. Either way, it is a poor advertisement for the publisher and serves the writer(s) badly. This biography deserved better. Having said that, I enjoyed the book enormously. It places Churchill at the centre of events, which is as it should be given the period covered, 1945 to 1965, and while his influence naturally faded following his retirement as Prime Minister in 1955, the impact of his personality and his trenchant views on politics remained potent. The authorship of the book is American and it is therefore all the more surprising (and refreshing) how critical it is of Roosevelt and of American foreign policy generally during the period, particularly the unwillingness to recognise fully the threat of Hitler, the frankly mercenary attitude towards Lend Lease, and later the unwillingness to follow through at the end of the war the occupation of east Germany and beyond to thwart Stalin's determination of establish his hold on Eastern Europe.

Must read ! Whata great job the author does in documnenting and clarifying the deeds (good and bad) of Churchill - Its amazing to understand just how much Certainly Europe needs a Churchill now

An excellent account of a great man. I have always admired Sir Winston, this book brings to life the strengths and frailties of the greatest leader the world has ever known.

The books were easy to find and sent in a timely manner!

An excellent book, well written and well researched. Not only for students of Churchill but will suit history buffs, esp.for the Second World War.