Pen and Sword Publishing

The Battle-cruiser HMS Renown 1916-1948

by  Peter C. Smith

Reviewed By  Kenny Loup, IPMS #42960

MSRP: $39.95 ISBN: 9781844157457 Website: www.pen-and-sword.co.uk Review Copy Supplied by Casemate Publishing (U. S. distributor):www.casematepublishing.com Ship Background The HMS Renown was conceived by the mind of Jacky Fisher. Laid down in January of 1915, she was commissioned September 20, 1916. Though she didn't see action at Jutland, she did serve the Royal Navy through out the remaining of World War I and then into World War II where she did fire her massive guns in anger. The Book This well documented account of the Renown's service life is written by author Peter W. Smith and the Forward by Vice-Admiral BCB Brooke CB, CBE, RN. In the book, Mr. Smith details her construction and many refits during World War I. From there, the reader follows the Renown as she carried members of the royal family on a tour of the British Empire and then through another refit just in time to see service in World War II. The book also includes many photographs of the ship during her career with the Royal Navy as well as diagrams showing her various configurations throughout the years. To complete the history of this proud ship, the author has listed the Renown's battle honors, commanding officers and predecessors. The book is in 6 x 9 format, hardbound, containing 368 pages and 40 b/w illustrations and photographs. I would like to thank Casemate and IPMS USA for the opportunity to review this book.