The Last Escape: The Untold Story of Allied Prisoners of War in Europe 1944-45 : Book Review

"The Last Escape" by John Nichol captivates readers with its gripping and compelling account of the daring escape attempts made by British prisoners of war during World War II. Through personal interviews, meticulous research, and historical records, Nichol provides a vivid and detailed portrayal of the harrowing experiences of these brave men and the remarkable lengths they went to regain their freedom.

Nichol's skill in storytelling shines throughout the book as he deftly weaves together the individual stories of various prisoners, recounting their audacious escape plans and the countless challenges they faced along the way. The narrative is fast-paced, filled with suspense, and keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

One of the book's strengths lies in shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of World War II. While prisoners of war often find themselves overshadowed by other facets of the war, "The Last Escape" brings their struggles and triumphs to the forefront. Nichol's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to capture the emotions of the men involved make for a powerful and thought-provoking read.

Moreover, "The Last Escape" offers readers a deeper understanding of the resilience and determination of the human spirit. Despite enduring unbearable conditions and seemingly insurmountable odds, the prisoners showcased extraordinary bravery and resourcefulness. Nichol's portrayal of their courage and defiance is both inspiring and deeply moving.

Undoubtedly, "The Last Escape" is a must-read for history enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by stories of courage and survival. Nichol's extensive research, captivating storytelling, and insightful analysis make this book an engaging and unforgettable exploration of the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity.

What are readers saying?

"The Last Escape" written by John Nichol received a mix of positive and negative reviews from readers. The book explores the daring escape attempts made by prisoners of war during World War II and has been commended for its gripping storytelling and well-researched historical events. Many readers found the book captivating, praising Nichol for his ability to vividly bring to life the harrowing experiences of these prisoners, providing an immersive and compelling read. The extensive research undertaken by Nichol was also acknowledged, demonstrating a deep understanding of the subject matter.

However, some readers had criticisms of the book. They found the writing style to be overly detailed and slow-paced, which made it challenging to fully engage with the story. These readers wished for more character development and fewer tangents, in order to establish a stronger emotional connection to the prisoners' experiences.

Despite these critiques, "The Last Escape" was generally well-received by readers. Many appreciated the attention to historical detail and the gripping nature of the anecdotes presented. The book was also commended for shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of World War II and paid tribute to the bravery of the POWs.

In conclusion, "The Last Escape" by John Nichol garnered a predominantly positive response from readers. Although some felt that the writing style could have been more engaging, the author's thorough research and ability to bring this little-known history to life were widely applauded. Fans of historical non-fiction would likely find this book both exciting and educational.