Table of Contents

Prologue: rulers of the waves. Part 1 Fisher's Navy, 1900-31: stormy days, doldrums. Part 2 Between the wars, 1918-39: views from the nursery; Med Fleet; bases and playgrounds. Part 3 Against the odds, 1931-45: uneasy peace; battle royal; turning points; towards victory. Epilogue: the ship comes first.