Skip to main content

Fighting Scared” by Robin Horsfall

“Fighting Scared” by Robin Horsfall recounts his own life story, particularly focusing on his experiences as a soldier in the British Army and his time with the Special Air Service (SAS). Horsfall’s journey is both unique and compelling, detailing his transformation from a troubled youth into a skilled and respected military operative. Key aspects of […]
87  / 100
My Rating
Fighting Scared” by Robin HorsfallBook Review by Jonathan Bowman-Perks

Fighting Scared” by Robin Horsfall recounts his own life story, particularly focusing on his experiences as a soldier in the British Army and his time with the Special Air Service (SAS). Horsfall’s journey is both unique and compelling, detailing his transformation from a troubled youth into a skilled and respected military operative.

Key aspects of the book include:

  • Early Life: Horsfall describes a challenging childhood that eventually led him to enlist in the Army at a young age. He faced difficulties in his formative years, including family issues and struggles in school.
  • Military Career: He shares his experiences and training in the Parachute Regiment and how he eventually became a member of the elite SAS. His military narrative is detailed and provides an authentic glimpse into the life of a soldier in these renowned units.
  • SAS Operations: The book delves into various missions and operations that Horsfall participated in, including counter-terrorism activities and the Iranian Embassy Siege in London in 1980. His first-hand account of this famous siege is particularly notable, providing an inside look at the SAS’s handling of the crisis, where they successfully rescued hostages.
  • Personal Struggles and Reflections: Beyond just military operations, Horsfall openly discusses his personal struggles, including the impact of his military service on his personal life and mental health. He talks candidly about the realities of post-traumatic stress and the challenges faced by soldiers transitioning back to civilian life.
  • Themes of Resilience and Redemption: A running theme in the book is one of resilience and the ability to overcome adversity. Horsfall’s story is not just about warfare and combat; it’s also about personal growth, finding one’s path in life, and the search for meaning beyond the battlefield.

“Fighting Scared” is more than just a military memoir; it’s a story of personal transformation and the journey of an individual through various phases of life, dealing with both external conflicts and internal battles. It’s lauded for its honest and straightforward narrative style, as well as its insightful look into special forces operations and the human cost of warfare.

Fighting Scared” by Robin Horsfall focuses on his experiences as a soldier in the British Army and his time with the Special Air Service (SAS). Horsfall’s journey is both unique and compelling, detailing his transformation from a troubled youth into a skilled and respected military operative.

Key aspects of the book include:

  • Early Life: Horsfall describes a challenging childhood that eventually led him to enlist in the Army at a young age. He faced difficulties in his formative years, including family issues and struggles in school.
  • Military Career: He shares his experiences and training in the Parachute Regiment and how he eventually became a member of the elite SAS. His military narrative is detailed and provides an authentic glimpse into the life of a soldier in these renowned units.
  • SAS Operations: The book delves into various missions and operations that Horsfall participated in, including counter-terrorism activities and the Iranian Embassy Siege in London in 1980. His first-hand account of this famous siege is particularly notable, providing an inside look at the SAS’s handling of the crisis, where they successfully rescued hostages.
  • Personal Struggles and Reflections: Beyond just military operations, Horsfall openly discusses his personal struggles, including the impact of his military service on his personal life and mental health. He talks candidly about the realities of post-traumatic stress and the challenges faced by soldiers transitioning back to civilian life.
  • Themes of Resilience and Redemption: A running theme in the book is one of resilience and the ability to overcome adversity. Horsfall’s story is not just about warfare and combat; it’s also about personal growth, finding one’s path in life, and the search for meaning beyond the battlefield.

“Fighting Scared” is more than just a military memoir; it’s a story of personal transformation and the journey of an individual through various phases of life, dealing with both external conflicts and internal battles. It’s lauded for its honest and straightforward narrative style, as well as its insightful look into special forces operations and the human cost of warfare.

– Jonathan Bowman-Perks

Sign up to my Newsletter

Sign up to Jonathan’s newsletter for regular updates.