It is hard to believe it was over Malta that Britain and France had gone to war again in 1803 after a peace deal that lasted only 14 months. Britain had fallen out with Napoleon over a number of key issues, particularly over his disruption of the balance of power in Europe and his ambitions over Egypt. However, it was ultimately Britain's refusal to give up Malta that tipped the scales for war.

When differences between the two powers simmered to boiling point, Napoleon blurted out: "Malta or war." Britain picked up the challenge and the peace deal, the Treaty of Amiens, was thrown into the dustbin of history. But how did Malta come to be pushed into the eye of the storm? Why did Britain hold its ground, and why did Bonaparte concentrate on Malta so much when he was conquering Europe?

Napoleon: 'Malta or War', just published by Kite Group, gives an in-depth historical account of the negotiations that led to the Treaty of Amiens and of the interminable twists and turns in the arguments over Malta's possession.

It explores Britain's shift in policy over Malta and the Mediterranean, Russia's part in the interplay of diplomatic manoeuvres, and brings to life the contributions of the leading actors in the fast-moving events that led to the Napoleonic Wars and Napoleon's downfall.

Victor Aquilina's latest deeply researched publication delves into an area that has been mostly overlooked by historians and it is essential reading for all those interested in this momentous period.

Aquilina, a former editor of Times of Malta, is the author of a number of other books, including Lord Strickland: Plots and Intrigue in Colonial Malta and Churchill, Malta, and Gibraltar.

Copies will be available at the book festival from Wednesday, 6 until Sunday, 10 November at MFCC Ta' Qali or online on www.kitegroup.com.mt