Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

This is an interesting book that tells the stories of a number of British Nazis, people who either liked fascism as a means to solving the problems of the world or were extremely antisemitic. Or possibly both. Much of the book focuses attention on the elite who, when dealt with by authorities, often received little more than a slap on the wrist. Those supporters of lesser social and economic standing were often treated to the full extent of the law.

It is no wonder that throughout the early 1930s there was much admiration for the Nazis. Many of the news outlets refused to tell the true story and cheered the results. They got things done and those pesky rumours of atrocities against Jews, who cares. Some even thought the Jews brought the treatment on themselves. It was only when Germany began its conquest of other countries, bloodless at first, and the calls for rearmament, that some of them, at least publicly, changed their tunes. Many, however, remained fans even past the declaration of war.

The list of conspirators is vast and reads like a who’s who of the aristocracy. Of course, it helped that one of the biggest supporters was Edward VIII. Thankfully his hubris took him off the throne before he could do the most damage. It is fascinating to watch the spider’s web of connections that link so many of these people together. I am thankful they were not able to succeed. Five purrs and two paws up.

NetGalley, Susan Johnston

Article: Local historian uncovers the hidden histories of UK fascism

https://www.bailiwickexpress.com/jsy/news/local-historian-uncovers-hidden-histories-uk-fascism/

Jersey News

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Norman Ridley’s account of British fascism is truly fascinating. His research appears to be meticulous and he really brings the issues and people to life. I was unaware of the influence of fascism on the suffragette movement. The detail about more familiar individuals, Moseley, Mitford and, of course the odious Edward and his wife, Wallis Simpson. I believe there’s little doubt that Britain would have become a very different country if Edward had remained King and there’s remarkable insight into this possibility within the detail here.

The story resonates currently with an appalling rise in anti semitism and the extent to which the two movements were so closely linked was disturbing. It’s interesting and worrying to realise that many elements of fascism remain today. Bubbling away under the surface and understanding the extent to which the roots of this controlling movement are threaded through society is quite a revelation. This is an important and interesting slice of social history. Really well presented so it’s accessible for any reader with an interest in modern history.

NetGalley, Anita Wallas

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

A history of the Fascist Movement in the UK with its heyday of the 1930s still in the memory of our most senior citizens. We read of the involvement of some of our well known aristocrats and politicians and the role of much of our press.
Prior to this period shows us how the Suffragette Movement idealogy was intertwined and while we know of Edward VII and Wallis Simpson sympathies this book gives more detail of the part they played and wanted to pursue. An excellent read.

NetGalley, Stephen Dale

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

“Hitler’s British Nazis: The Hidden Story of the Fascist Movement in the UK” is a captivating and enlightening exploration that shines a spotlight on the remarkable history of fascism during World War I and the buildup to World War II. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, the book delves into the lives and missions of the people who played pivotal roles during this period. The author chronicles the impact of certain people, including Oswald Mosley, Diana Mitford, Unity Mitford, Winston Churchill and even the details surrounding King Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson. It is a concise narration of how fascism developed, evolved, and spread throughout Europe and Britain. It explores why the populations of countries such as Germany felt compelled to embrace radical extremism after the First World War, attributing it to events like The Great Depression.

Starting from the very beginning, the book portrays life journeys in a captivating way, highlighting the lack of tranquillity in their lives. The narrative underscores the intrigue involved, while Norman Ridley also acknowledges the collective contributions of numerous others towards the war effort. A part of the book concentrates on highlighting each person mentioned in the book, their background and the role played, enriching the reader’s understanding of their importance. One of the book’s strengths is its focus on the lesser-known facts of this era, including perspectives on wartime intelligence and possible cover-ups. The author’s meticulous research is evident throughout the book, providing readers with a comprehensive and well-rounded understanding of the subject.

This book is a fascinating read. I never considered how much anti-Semitism and Nazi support existed in Britain before World War II. The amount of information contained within this book astounded me. I have read many books surrounding Hitler and World War II, but this was my first time discovering this topic. It was truly eye-opening to discover that in the 1930s, many privileged young women were sent to Germany for "finishing" purposes. I was left speechless when I learned that they were sent to a country Britain had recently been at war with.

Overall, Hitler’s British Nazis is a compelling and well-written account analyzing fascist tendencies. It is a must-read for anyone interested in World War, British history and espionage.
It deserves a perfect rating of 5 out of 5.

NetGalley, Mariel Renaud

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

This book provides an interesting history of early fascist movements and how they developed.

This book describes the various personalities involved in the fascist movement and also the personalities of those who sympathised with the movement within the major parties.

NetGalley, Karl Wardlaw

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

A very interesting and relevant overview of Britain’s fascists during the 1930’s.

NetGalley, George Schaeffer