Alpine Renault: the fabulous berlinettes
"In view of the author's previous books on related matters ... and his most particular fondness for the Alpine (he even owned one), this new book was inevitable. New it may be but it was six years in the making [... this] has only benefited it because the writing is more expansive, more fleshed out, there's more mood, tone, and context. It is an engaging book to just read, not merely to study or consult for specific morsels of micro detail.As Smith's previous books, this new one would have advanced the body of literature simply by being the first English-language treatment in book form. But it is more than just a soup-to-nuts compilation of known snippets of information previously scattered across magazines and news reports. He has, as always, dug deep and interviewed people directly involved with the cars, unearthed new photos, and gathered competition data (but only from "important events"). Some of the archival material is certainly new to the record." -The Flying Lady"this work is an absolute cracker and, frankly, if you're a berlinette enthusiast, then the volume's 242 action- and photograph-packed pages are worth every cotton-picking penny of the asking price! ... It is doubtful whether any other author in the future will be able to improve on the overall excellence of this offering historically or photographically and, because of the limited number of copies published and of the esoteric nature of the subject, it is unlikely that the title will remain in print for long. In other words ... don't just sit there and hum and haw. If you wouldn't mind having a copy - even if it's only for the plethora of fine b & w and colour photographs - then just do it." -Renotes"a new and extraordinary addition on Alpine" -Alpine Revue"One hell of a lot of information in here." -Motor Sport"A great buy for enthusiasts" -Auto Express"A beautiful piece of car history!" -Klassiek & Techniek"Accomplished author Roy Smith uncovers the history of the Alpine Renault' fabulous berlinettes in his usual Miss Marple style of investigation. ... a well-informed and authoritative insight to the whole Alpine project ... Smith has produced a work that will appeal to the casual reader as well as rally enthusiasts and Alpine aficionados." -Vintage Racecar/Vintage Roadcar"A great look at the creation, development and success of one of the classic rally cars of all time and is a must-have for all Alpine fans." -Daily Express/Sunday Express