There is no bitter snarl nor self-pity in this classic novel about the air war of 1914-1918, based very largely on the author's experiences. Combat, loneliness, fatigue, fear, comradeship, women, excitement - all are built into a vigorous and authentic structure by one of the most valiant pilots of the then Royal Flying Corps.

Reviews

'This is one of the real books of the War. It is autobiography, war history and fiction. To read it is an experience to satisfy any reader.' The Spectator

'Yeates has written a long faithful and truthful book, in its uncompromising courage the best intimate account of the War in the air which has yet appeared.' TLS

'Brilliant, one of the few great books of air warfare. Heartily recommended to any person desiring a vivid, absorbing first-hand narrative of the sort of Homeric hell lived by fighting pilots during the last stages of the war.' The Observer

'A powerful indictment against the war itself. The classic novel of the Royal Flying Corps.' Glasgow Herald

'A jewel of a book which has always deserved to be better known, more widely appreciated.' Oxford Times

'The greatest novel of war in the air.' The Daily Mail