This book is about the Rolls-Royce Merlin aero engine - the engine that powered all the leading aircraft used by the Allies during World War II, including the Spitfire, Hurricane, Mosquito, Mustang and Lancaster. Our story begins with the development of the Merlin, from its earliest stage in the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost car to its triumph in the Battle of Britain and throughout the war. We also tell of the production workers, engineers, managers, designers and pilots who, by their efforts and sacrifice, helped realise the potential of the Merlin and thereby make the world safe for democracy. The Merlin engine saved the world from descent into a dark tyranny that would have shattered all the liberties that we hold dear today. This is a story concerned with nothing less than the preservation of freedom...