by Steven Zaloga, $19, published 2000.

This book covers the actions in the Lorraine area of France in September, 1944. This is a very interesting period in the history of armored warfare on the Western Front, but has not received the attention it should. Popular histories do not cover it in real detail, although the U.S. Official History volume "The Lorraine Campaign" is an exception.

The book has separate chapters covering the strategic situation, opposing side's plans, commanders and armies. The equipment and training is well covered, although the exact strengths of the units is not fleshed out as a gamers would like. Armor strength is provided, for example, but not much on the anti-tank or infantry strengths. Support, doctrine, air and artillery tactics is well covered, though.

The book then details three major engagements in the Lorraine that take place in September. It is here that the Germans deploy the Panzer Brigades ordered to be formed by Hitler (the Army recommendation was to use the new equipment to replace losses in the Army armored divisions) and committed to make a major attack on Patton's 3rd Army. The three battles are: The Moselle River engagement by the 90th U.S. Infantry division; The 2nd French Armored Division at Dompaire; The 4th Armored at Arracourt. Each battle is well laid out with a list of forces involved, starting locations, and a general account of the battle. Each also has an excellent map, showing the terrain over which the battle took place. However, the actual forces involved has to be determined from the text, and in the case of the U.S., sometimes you may need to go to a second source to get the order of battle. The results of the three battles are provided, along with information on the battlefield as it is today (a touch of the "Then and Now" series). A good selection of books for further reading is also provided.

Finally, suggested wargaming methods is provided. This was the only part of the book I didn't like, as it was very "English." Most of the gaming suggestions are not what you see at conventions, nor would you try to do in your basement. They are mostly role playing suggestions.

On a scale of 1 (poor) to 10 (you had better buy it) I would rate this book a good solid 8. Well worth the money.

Pass of the North 15mm Marian Romans, Spanish, and Gauls