Customer Reviews

The Seychelles Affair

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Col. Mike Hoare's version of the events that took place during the abortive Seychelles coup attempt of November 1981 shed light on a dim corner of Cold War history. Of note are the political back-room machinations and deal-making involved in plotting the coup, as is Hoare's subsequent trial in South Africa and his time in prison.

The coup would doubtless have succeeded but for a simple twist of ironic fate. Their cover blown and the element of surprise lost, Hoare and his men must choose between fighting on or fleeing. This book is an interesting footnote to history, and is written in Hoare's wry, matter-of-fact style, quite similar to his other works like "The Road to Kalamata". Recommended reading for those sympathetic to Hoare and his point of view. It's certainly a viewpoint you won't read about in the popular press.

If you can find this book, buy it! It is an excellent and well-told tale of how one little mistake can devastate even the most redundant and well-laid plans. It is very informative and insightful, and if you have any interest in modern mercenaries and/or recent history of southern Africa, this is a must-read.