A Terrible Splendor: Three Extraordinary Men, a World Poised for War, and the Greatest Tennis Match Ever Played

Wonerfully written, wonderfull story.

The reader is transformed to the world of tennis and politics in the 1930's. They will get to know the stars of the tennis world they may never had heard of (von Cramm, Budge) and some they know (A 19 year old Bobby Riggs).

Although the homosexual tendencies of the players gets mentioned, it's very minimal, but necessary, to show how those in power put their morals in the draw as long as they can draw benefits.

One doesn't have to be a fan of the game of tennis to begin this book, but there is a very high probability that they will be in the gallery rooting for his favorite while reading.

I give this book my highest recommendation. Very well done.

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.

Excellent Tennis

This book receives a 5 star due to the writer's excellent layout of this epic match and the political environment of the 30's. The writer builds each of the tennis icons and gives the reader insight into the U.S., Britain, and Germany. He does and excellent unbiased biography of a gay man and presents to the reader a Gottfried Von Cramm as a a great tennis champion he was. This book should be in the library of any tennis or sports enthusiast.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

beautifully written and a treat for tennis fans

a terrible splendor is a beautifully written book about a relatively obscure event occuring during a turbulent and horrific time. as others have written the book has less to do with tennis & more to do with the character of people during the davis cup matches of 1936. the book is a rewarding and worthwhile if read just for the writing, however tennis fans will find it a fascinating look at tennis from an era rarely seen

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