It is a most welcome book as it helps to broaden the general interest in an important facet of naval/maritime history, showcases that naval warfare was by no means limited to the navies and sailors themselves but that civilian mariners were equally involved and affected, and most important that it were not only the “great men” making history, but ordinary merchant mariners.

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Naval Historical Foundation

An eight-page section of black-and-white photographs illustrates this 235-page book's diligently researched stories of valiant civilians who fought to protect their ships and cargoes to help the U.K war effort.

Toy Soldier & Model Figure magazine issue 238 – reviewed by Leo Winston

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Mercator Chapter Belgium, October,December 2018

Another brilliant book by a retired sea captain and master wordsmith who recreates the past as though we were there among the frantic nautical action. Nobody does it better.

This England, Summer 2018

A cracking read which brings home to the reader how much we in this country owe to the Merchant Navy.

Barry Gem, 8th March 2018 - reviewed by Brian Lee

These are stories which deserve to be re-told, and Bernard Edwards powerfully reminds us that they contain lessons that remain relevant today.

Nautilus March 2018

The volume is both well-written and informative... a worthy example of its ‘War Story’ genre.

NZ Crown Mines

First-rate book, with carefully chosen examples of the craft, cargoes, crews, and the dangers they faced constantly while trying to keep Britain and her allies supplied with essentials. Grippingly readable and very well researched, every story is worthy of a war drama - but this was reality. A highly recommended read for a true understanding of some of the sacrifices made by non-military services during World War II, largely overlooked at the time and since. To paraphrase Churchill, never have so many been acknowledged by so few; this book rectifies that.

Alan Hampson