The Deadly Trade: The Complete History of Submarine Warfare From Archimedes to the Present

I'm always a bit skeptical when a book has the phrase "complete history of..." in its title (unless it's sarcasm), as another author will undoubtably come along and fill in a gap. The Deadly Trade, however, lives up to its title.This is the most comprehensive historical account of submarine warfare I've come across. Almost 1000 pages long, it spans from the initial development of the submarine in the 1600s through to the end of 2017.Even given its length, I found it hard to put this book down, and read it in only a few days.The thing the struck me the most about the account of submarine warfare in WWII was the incredible number of vessels sunk - literally hundreds of millions of tons of ships, subs, and supplies went to the bottom. It's a testament to the vast size and resilience of our oceans that there appears to be no long-term impact from all this debris.I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in naval history or submarine warfare/technology.

Best book I've read on sub history. Written by a Brit, so lots of British history. However, very good coverage of U.S. boats in ww2. Was in the sub service 1962-1969 so interesting coverage of the cold war that I didn't know at the time. Would recommend to any Subvet or interested others.

Great one Volume history of Submarine warfare. Highly recommend as a start into the world of underwater warfare...

I have a general interest in WW2 history alongside maritime history however have never delved into the depths of submarine history before. I spotted 'A Deadly Trade' in the window of my local bookstore and the impressive cover art drew me in, so I purchased it as one of a set of books for my reading for an upcoming holiday, alongside 'Hunter Killers' (I like to have a theme for my holiday reading!).In short - this book was phenomenal. I barely moved off my lounger for two days whilst I devoured it, recounting the stories I'd learnt over dinner with my new husband (who probably expected something a bit more romantic!). What really struck me from the book was Ballatyne's ability to provide the comprehensive macro history of submarine warfare and development, yet also depict the accounts of the brave and gallant submariners that have changed history. The standout element of the book is the detail around the defence of the WW2 convoys and the utter terror being hunted by the U Boat 'Wolfpacks'. I hadn't previously considered the conditions endured by submariners from all nations, nor the sheer bravery, confidence yet consideration required by submarine commanders but this book lays the detail out, allowing the reader to make their own reflection. What is also apparent is the esteem and sentiment within which Ballantyne holds our nation's greatest submarines - and the respect he accords to those of other nations.'A Deadly Trade' then inspired me to read 'Killing the Bismarck' which I also highly recommend for a gripping account of the hunt and fight to restore morale in our navy after the devastating loss of HMS Hood.If you are considering whether or not to buy it - you should, even if you have no prior knowledge of this topic. I was genuinely sad when I finished it - I would definitely recommend!