The action at Fromelles in July 1916 is Australia's most catastrophic military failure. The story has always appeared simple, but in truth history did not unfold in the way we have for so long been led to believe.

Peter Barton has written an authoritative and revelatory book on Fromelles. He describes its long and surprising genesis, and offers an unexpected account of the fighting; he investigates the interrogation of Anglo-Australian prisoners, and the results of shrewd German propaganda techniques; and he explores the circumstances surrounding the 'missing' Pheasant Wood graves. He also brings a new perspective to the writings of Charles Bean.

This compelling and illuminating history dispels many a myth surrounding one of the bloodiest battlefields of the Great War.