This is the first of the next generation of Naval Squadron histories that have been promised. It is the usual sumptuous Schiffer publication, on beautiful paper with stunning profiles showing aircraft markings (by Mark Miller), and a vast range of photographs, ranging from the superb to the awful, but all relevant.

The story is fully and well told and when you add the appendices covering a roster of all serving officers, lists of casualties, combat claims and aircraft used, it is understandable, and worthy of note, that this book is the result of nearly 20 years research and collecting information. It is undoubtedly the fullest history of the Squadron yet written. I was going to say ‘the last word’, but I expect that the author’s considered and well argued views on the Black Flight will cause a deal of controversy. I was also not aware of the mutiny that took place in September 1917, which had a paradoxical outcome.

Excellent and worth every penny.