Inspired by the heroic war time period escapades of his father, as well as drawing on his own encounters in the special forces, acclaimed adventurer Sir Ranulph Fiennes thrillingly explores the history of elite military units, from ancient Sparta towards the Battle on Terror.

Top notch military products have frequently been immortalised over the big screen, and in computer games, for their daring deeds. Whether fighting around the battlefield, storming castles, rescuing hostages, high stakes reconnaissance about The Top notch: The Story of Special Forces – From Old Sparta towards the Gulf Battle missions or the assassination of foe leaders, these are the men who are relied upon to undertake harmful missions of the best stakes. While celebrating the heroics of organizations like the SAS and Navy Seals, Sir Ranulph also reveals the true stories of infamous organisations such as The Assassins and Templar Knights. Uncovering their origins, and examining their weaponry and strategies, Sir Ranulph showcases these units most well-known missions, and reveals the guys behind them. Displaying amazing courage, these units have also transformed the span of history on the way.

While these units traditionally prefer to operate in the shadows, Sir Ranulph provides their remarkable histories towards the fore, told along with his brand capability to weave a tale which has seen him become among Britain’s most beloved bestselling writers.