Readers of this Author's Eighth Army's Greatest Victories (shortly to appear as a Penguin paperback) will welcome this latest work covering the difficult early period of what was to become one of the most illustrious formations in British military history. Born from the Western Desert force, the Eighth Army was beset with command, equipment and morale problems before it emerged to enjoy glory. The book recounts the events of the first year of Eighth Army's existence when it enjoyed the advantages of superior numbers, superior tanks (contrary to legend), superior Intelligence and the support of a more effective air force. Despite these benefits and the undoubted valour of its soldiers, however, it suffered a series of defeats or, even more disheartening, successes which brought no lasting benefit. The book describes these events and explains the reasons with authority. Selling Points * The Eighth Army remains one of the most famous fighting formations in British History. * The controversy over its leadership (Auchinleck/Montgomery etc) remains a major issue. * Superbly researched and written by an experienced and respected author.

The Author Adrian Stewart was educated at Rugby School before taking First Class Honours at Cambridge. Previously published books include The Battle for Leyte Gulf, Guadalcanal, Underrated Enemy - Britain's War with Japan and Eighth Army's Greatest Victories.