These books offer a unique perspective. Most English language accounts of the war rely heavily on English sources, whereas Whitehead’s treatment is based almost entirely on German sources, not only official documents, reports, and histories, but also letters, diaries, memoirs, and even interviews with some veterans.

The detail is often extraordinary, with insights into soldiers’ experiences at the front, in reserve, on nocturnal patrols, in heavy combat, in most cases using extensive first-hand accounts. There’s also a great deal of information on changes in organization, weapons, tactics, and the living conditions of the troops, as defeat crew closer and closer.

Although the lack of an index is a serious drawback, these volumes are absolutely essential for anyone seriously interested in the Great War in the West.

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