Jim Smithson Books

The Battle of Arras (9 April-16 May 1917) is often overlooked, making it less known compared to the iconic battlefields of the Somme or Passchendaele. Despite this, the Arras sector offers significant interest for visitors, with many visual reminders of the war remaining a century later. This comprehensive guide is designed to educate and assist visitors in exploring four years of conflict in Arras and its surroundings. Organized by geographical sector, it chronicles major engagements and highlights key locations to enhance understanding of the fighting. For instance, standing on Observation Ridge, visitors can learn about the 12th (Eastern) Division's assault on 9 April 1917 through detailed descriptions, maps, and photographs. A modern map helps contextualize nearby cemeteries. This guide does not prescribe routes but marks key locations, allowing visitors to plan itineraries based on their interests. Each site is accompanied by photographs and descriptions of significant events during the battle. Travel advice regarding accessibility by car, bicycle, or foot is also included. Lavishly illustrated, the guide covers the area south of the River Scarpe, detailing British and Dominion attacks, the German offensive of March 1918, and the Anglo-Canadian offensive that contributed to the war's conclusion.

Wedged between the Battles of the Somme and Passchendaele, the Battle of Arras is often labeled 'The Forgotten Battle,' lacking substantial literature. This work aims to fill that gap, offering insights into the battle that highlighted the evolution of the British and Commonwealth Armies during the early years of the First World War, while also revealing how much further they had to go for victory. It delves into the political backdrop that made Arras a focal point, illustrating the divide between military leaders and political authorities. The text explores the advancements in infantry tactics and the artful use of artillery that supported assaults, noting how a preliminary bombardment shattered German defenses but impeded rapid movement afterward. It examines the Royal Flying Corps' key role, tank deployment, and the contributions of support units like the Royal Engineers. As the narrative unfolds, initial success from meticulous planning gives way to chaotic command and control issues. While the soldiers' performance is praised, many commanders' readiness is questioned, revealing that the British Army was not fully prepared to win the war. Drawing from primary British and German sources, this reassessment challenges myths surrounding the battle and presents a fresh perspective as its centenary approaches. The work includes 16 color images and maps, alongside various illustrations and diagrams throughout.

Everything is a clue.Eight strangers arrive at a remote sea fort off the coast of England. They are here to take part in The Fortress, a mysterious reality TV show in which contestants have to solve a series of complex puzzles. But this is no game, and the consequences of failure are more deadly than anyone anticipated.No one leaves.The show's sinister purpose becomes clear when the first person is evicted from the competition. Instead of being sent home to their family, they are left to die inside a locked room.The only way out is to win.Under scrutiny from the watching public, the contestants soon turn one another. What are they willing to do for wealth and fame? How far will they go to survive? And who is behind it all? The only thing they know for certain is that if they want to escape, they need to win...Are you ready to play?