Cracking the Luftwaffe Codes
WWII History Magazine,January 2007"Written by a member of the cryptographic staff at the British codebreaking center at Bletchley Park, this eminently fascinating inside story is an account of the many diverse personalities involved in the complex, highly classified operation and the invaluable service they performed for the Allies. It was not until 1974 that Bletchley Park's activities were even detailed for the public."The author, then a sergeant in the British Women's Auxiliary Air Force, brings to life the reality of the German Air Section at BP, as the center was known, the first-ever account of this crucial department. In a highly informative and lyrical account, she details her eventful interview, her eventual appointment at the 'biggest lunatic asylum in Britain," methods empoloyed to crack the maddeningly difficult codes, the day-to-day operations at the center, and the decommisssioning of her section at war's end."Cracking the Luftwaffe Codesis much more readable than Leo Mark'sBetween Silk and Cyanide, which told basically the same story, but not as well. Watkins' tale is thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish."“Any reader seeking information on the top secret technology of cracking ciphers in WW2 had best look elsewhere. This delightful read is more of a social history of the British at war and a social commentary of the times than actual dramatic code cracking. The compartmentalization of the various sections at BP is emphasized as well as the seemingly pointless sifting of intercepted enemy radio traffic.” -- Sid WigzellCryptologia,February 2007“Watkins has written an interesting book that should appeal to anyone interested in World War II, code-breaking, or simply looking for a good-read.”