Chemical Warrior

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What to expect

GRIPPING, MOVING AND INSPIRING: the remarkable life of a world-leading expert in chemical weapons defence.

"His work has saved lives and given hope." - Professor David Nott, bestselling author of War Doctor

For thirty years, Hamish has served and volunteered in conflict zones around the world. As the army's foremost chemical weapons expert, he built a unique first-hand understanding of how to prevent attacks and train doctors on the frontline - saving countless lives in the process.

After suffering near-death experiences time and again, Hamish discovered he had a ticking time bomb in his own chest: a heart condition called Sudden Death Syndrome that could kill him at any time. But with a new awareness for the fragility of life, he fought harder to make his count.

Despite facing extraordinary personal danger, Hamish has unearthed evidence of multiple chemical attacks in Syria and continues to advise the government at the highest level, including after the 2018 Novichok poisoning in Salisbury. Lifting the lid on Hamish's unique world of battlefield expertise and humanitarian work, Chemical Warrior is a thrilling story of bravery and compassion.

(P)2020 Headline Publishing Group Limited

Critics Review

  • A gripping account

    Daily Mail
  • A fascinating memoir

    Salisbury Journal
  • Gripping

    Daily Express
  • A page-turning read, full of urgent questions, from one of the world’s finest chemical and biological weapons experts. Compelling and unforgettable.

    John Simpson
  • Hamish de Bretton-Gordon has been one of my closest comrades on the front line. Completely fearless, he is one of the leading chemical weapons expert on the globe. His training has saved lives and given hope.

    Professor David Nott, bestselling author of WAR DOCTOR
  • A career at the cutting edge of Britain’s chemical weapons defence has bequeathed Hamish a deep and heartfelt mission for protecting the innocent victims of such heinous crimes. The risks he has taken to do so are legion, his commitment beyond belief, his inspiration truly humbling. One of my heroes, a word I do not use lightly.

    Damien Lewis, bestselling author of APACHE DAWN

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