Wilful Murder: The Sinking of the Lusitania : Book Review

"Wilful Murder: The Sinking of the Lusitania" by Diana Preston is an exceptional and captivating account of one of the most profound and debated events in maritime history. With meticulous research and a compelling narrative, Preston delves into the events leading up to the tragic sinking of the RMS Lusitania by a German U-boat during World War I, examining the political and military contexts surrounding the incident.

What sets this book apart is Preston's ability to weave together historical facts and personal testimonies, painting a vivid and comprehensive picture of the tragedy. By focusing on the individual stories of passengers and crew members, she brings a sense of humanity to the narrative, allowing readers to deeply connect with the enormity of the disaster.

Preston's attention to detail is truly commendable, and her dedication to research is evident throughout the book. The extensive bibliography and footnotes provide readers with the opportunity to further explore the subject matter, adding depth and credibility to her work.

While the sinking of the Lusitania is a well-known event, Preston manages to offer fresh insights and challenge prevailing assumptions through uncovering new evidence. Her nuanced interpretation of the incident and exploration of the aftermath, including the political fallout and its impact on public opinion during the war, adds a thought-provoking perspective to the story.

Overall, "Wilful Murder: The Sinking of the Lusitania" is a remarkable piece of historical nonfiction. Diana Preston's ability to combine historical analysis with personal narratives makes this book a captivating read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of World War I and the tragic fate of the Lusitania.

What are readers saying?

"Wilful Murder" by Diana Preston is a historical non-fiction book that delves into the assassination of William II, the last German Emperor and King of Prussia. This gripping account of the events leading up to the murder and its aftermath has received a variety of feedback from readers.

Some reviewers praised Diana Preston's extensive research and captivating writing style, applauding her ability to breathe life into history. They found the book engaging and well-paced, striking a good balance between storytelling and factual information. Preston's attention to detail and exploration of the political and social climate of the time were commended by these readers, who appreciated her comprehensive approach to recounting the assassination.

However, other readers felt the book had some shortcomings. Some believed that Preston placed excessive emphasis on the political context, resulting in a lack of depth when it came to the characters involved. They found it difficult to establish an emotional connection with the story, finding it challenging to fully engage with the narrative. A few reviewers also noted that the book could be dense and dry at times, suggesting that a certain level of interest in the subject matter is necessary to fully appreciate it.

Opinions on the structure and organization of the book varied. Some readers found the chronological approach effective, allowing for a clear understanding of the events. On the other hand, some felt that the book occasionally jumped back and forth in time, making the narrative confusing to follow.

Overall, "Wilful Murder" by Diana Preston offers a detailed account of the assassination of William II, providing readers with insights into the political tensions of the era. While some readers praised Preston's meticulous research and engaging storytelling, others found the book lacking in emotional depth and perceived the writing style to be dry at times. Nevertheless, for those interested in European history, this book promises to be an informative and insightful read.

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