The Desert Jackal
North Africa, 1940.
The British Army is outnumbered, outgunned, and expected to do little more than survive. But Sergeant Tom Mercer and his newly assembled platoon are about to become part of an offensive that will change the course of the desert war.
Thrown together from every corner of the British Empire, Mercer's men are an unlikely band of soldiers: a sharp-witted Londoner, a stubborn Scottish Bren gunner, an unflappable Indian veteran, a fearless Australian, a resourceful South African mechanic, a quiet New Zealander, and young recruits experiencing battle for the first time. Bound by danger rather than friendship, they must learn to trust one another as they face an enemy that outnumbers them at every turn.
From the thunderous opening attack at Nibeiwa to the brutal fighting at Sidi Barrani, Bardia, Tobruk, Derna, Mechili and the decisive clash at Beda Fomm, the platoon fights across one of history's most remarkable military campaigns. Every victory comes at a cost. Every mile of desert claims more lives. Yet as the Italian Tenth Army begins to collapse, Mercer and his men discover that survival depends as much on loyalty, courage and compassion as it does on marksmanship.
Rich in authentic historical detail, unforgettable characters and gripping battlefield action, The Desert Jackal is a powerful story of ordinary soldiers accomplishing extraordinary things during Operation Compass—the campaign that stunned the world and proved that determination could overcome impossible odds.
Perfect for readers of Alan Mallinson, Douglas Reeman, Alexander Fullerton and readers who enjoy realistic World War II military fiction filled with camaraderie, courage and unforgettable battles.