**Book Talk**
Closer to Paradise
Anthony de Normann on the SAS
and its role in the Second Gulf War
David Bradley will interview ex-SAS officer Anthony de Normann on the SAS, his time there, and why he wrote Closer to Paradise.
The Special Air Service is the world's first and arguably most accomplished special forces regiment.
Discover how it started, how it works and its role in the Second Gulf War - and the stories, challenges and heroism that influenced the writing of Closer to Paradise.
£35 Each
OR become a Roaring Reveller and come FREE
Monday 9th September 2024
The Bridge Room (upstairs), The Prince Albert, 85 Albert Bridge Road, London SW11
Arrive 7pm - Drinks at the bar
Talk starts 7.30pm
Optional dinner 8.30pm
About Anthony de Normann
Anthony de Normann (aka Scott Leigh) joined the Royal Hussars then served as a Captain in the SAS from 1983 to 1990. Since leaving the British Army, Anthony has enjoyed a successful career in renewable energy and is currently chairman of Buffalo Energy.
Closer to Paradise, published by Chiselbury, is Anthony's first novel (with a second on the way).
Closer to Paradise is an explosive, compelling, searingly authentic thriller about the Iraq War.
A stunning first novel by a former SAS officer.
As one Five Star Reviewer put it...
Closer to Paradise is a gripping read from the start. To a non-military reader it feels extremely realistic, with the action building round what must be very common events: logistics, transportation, ambush, the complexity of differing hostile groups, simple mistakes with big consequences, captured troops, fear and bravery. The writing is excellent and the characters compelling and human. The speech and jargon feel very realistic with heavy use of acronyms, quickly familiarised by the reader with a helpful glossary. Highly recommended for those who want not just an exciting read but also to feel that they are close to the way things were and are in conflict.
Some of what you'll discover at the talk
* The one critical approach that gives the UK's SAS a vital advantage over US Navy Seals and Delta Force.
* The roles of Boat Troop, Mobility Troop, Mountain Troop and Air Troop.
​* Why hostage rescue missions are the most exciting and enjoyable of all possible SAS deployments.
​
* Why hating (quite reasonably) scooping up, bagging and carrying your poo on operations, not to mention stinking like a 70-year-old tramp, is one of the main character traits that eliminates SAS candidates during SAS Selection.
* Why the British held back information from the Americans during part of the Second Gulf War.
* In Iraq, whether or not the British and allied governments paid Iraqi spies and informants enough and looked after their welfare sufficiently?
* What happens when a (SAS or regular army) junior commander has yet to win the trust and respect of sergeants and corporals? What happens to them if they fail?
Monday 9th September 2024
The Bridge Room (upstairs), The Prince Albert, 85 Albert Bridge Road, London SW11
Arrive 7pm - Drinks at the bar
Talk starts 7.30pm
Optional dinner 8.30pm
£35 each.
OR become a Roaring Reveller and come FREE.
Cancellation Policy
If we must cancel the event or you (with at least five days' notice) can't make it, you will receive a complimentary ticket to another Revellers' Club-organised event. If there isn't one that you wish or can attend, you will receive a refund. Tickets are not transferable.