
Hell Above Earth
by Stephen Frater
"The Incredible True Story of an American WWII Bomber Commander and the Copilot Ordered to Kill Him"
Popularity
4.61 / 5
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Hell Above Earth by Stephen Frater
Details
War:
World War II
Perspective:
Bombers
Military Unit:
US Air Force
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
Yes
Region:
Europe
Published Date:
2013
ISBN13:
9781250021205
Description
Brief Summary
Hell Above Earth by Stephen Frater tells the gripping and true story of Captain Werner Goering, a highly skilled U.S. pilot during World War II, who happened to be the nephew of Hermann Göring, a prominent Nazi leader. The book delves into the intense and perilous experiences of bomber crews over Nazi Germany. The twist in Captain Goering's tale is the involvement of the FBI, which secretly assigned Jack Rencher, a top B-17 instructor, to ensure Goering's capture or defection did not result in a propaganda victory for the Nazis. The story combines historical events with thrilling suspense, ultimately highlighting the unlikely friendship between Goering and Rencher in one of WWII’s most remarkable untold narratives.
Main Themes and Topics
The central themes of Hell Above Earth include loyalty, duty, and the moral complexities faced by individuals during wartime. The book examines the psychological toll on pilots and crew in the deadly air battles over Germany, juxtaposed with the extraordinary personal conflict experienced by Captain Goering due to his familial connection to a key Nazi figure. Themes of friendship and trust are also explored, particularly through the relationship between Goering and Rencher, as well as the broader theme of identity and allegiance during times of war.
Writing Style and Tone
Stephen Frater employs a narrative style that combines meticulous historical research with engaging storytelling. The tone is both suspenseful and informative, as Frater carefully reconstructs events while maintaining a compelling narrative pace. His detailed descriptions of the aerial combat situations and the emotional strain on the characters help to immerse readers in the tension and intensity of the time. Frater's ability to weave factual history with the personal stories of his protagonists enhances the book's accessibility and appeal.
Criticism
While Hell Above Earth has been praised for its fascinating subject matter and well-researched content, some critics have pointed out that the sheer volume of historical detail may sometimes overwhelm casual readers. Additionally, the complex nature of some military operations described might be challenging for those unfamiliar with aviation or WWII history. However, these aspects can also add depth for readers who appreciate detailed and comprehensive historical accounts.