A desperate appeal for Anglo-French union that took place, Fenby writes, linked de Gaulle with British statesman Winston Churchill for the first time. With the Nazi onslaught marching through territory, the announcement came in June 1940 that Paris constituted an "open city" and a de facto surrendered to the invaders took place. With not only no battle having taken place but hardly any sign of resistance encountered, the capitulation of France appeared complete. The previously obscure de Gaulle, Fenby recounts, decided to get flown by the British to London, England and to make what became known as the "Appel du 18 Juin" on 18 June from the studios of the BBC. The popular speech constituted not only a rallying cry for those still supporting French pride but additionally a call for French resistance at all levels. Fenby notes that the flight and subsequent delivery of the address nearly didn't happen due to maneuverings within the overwhelmed French government. De Gaulle's leadership of the French government in exile during the war and other actions resisting the Axis powers receive additional detail in Fenby's writing. In broad terms, Fenby views de Gaulle's conduct during WWII as well as the statesman's role in ending the later Algerian crisis of the middle 20th century as establishing a larger-than-life cultural persona. Historian Andrew Hussey of "The Observer" wrote a supportive review, remarking that the "impressive account" of de Gaulle's life features a "finely nuanced and highly readable" style that reveals the statesman "as a master of spin as much as the saviour of his nation." Hussey additionally praised the complex take on de Gaulle's legacy after WWII ended; the leader "escapes easy classification" and has a heroic legacy with an element of tragedy to it in Hussey's opinion. As well, Hussey commented that Fenby debunked "many of the Anglo-American myths about" de Gaulle given that the author was "able to write about French political culture from the inside". "Kirkus Reviews" lauded the book. The review stated that "the astute and psychologically probing" work "does an excellent job portraying" de Gaulle "as a truly larger-than-life, uncompromising and incomparable character who acted as his country’s conscience and rudder." The diary-like writing style of multiple sections particularly attracted praise. In addition, professor Malcolm Crook wrote for "History Extra" that the "excellent study" of de Gaulle constiited a "blockbuster" as befitting such a notable individual.