A Rough Ride - Hardcover

'The book blends personal family history with historical events to provide a very interesting view of the war, exploring its key events through the five men's eyes, and is lavishly produced in colour with many photographs.' 'This is much more than a book about the role of motorcycles in warfare: it's a series of snapshots from five different viewpoints drawing on diaries, letters and some very rare photographs. The result is a highly detailed and very personal account - one which starts in a quiet Worcestershire village and ends with 'muted sounds of victory.' Real Classic Magazine --Your Family Tree Magazine

'He has assembled a potted history of the war, in around fifty short, well-written illustrated pieces, like extended encyclopaedia entries... 'Accessible to readers beyond those just interested in military or aviation history. It tells the story of a family at war, and in this year of commemoration I recommend it to anyone interested in the broader picture.' --Cross & Cockade

'Although the thread of his family's history runs through the book, this is more than a sentimental journey down Memory Lane, but is a very readable and concise history of the conflict, from its historic roots to its final effects. Whilst the personal reminiscences ad poignancy, they do not overwhelm.' --Knight Riders

Five of Hugh Neems' uncles served their country in the First World War. In the stinking mud of the trenches, on horseback, on a Douglas motorcycle and in RAF aircraft, they each played their part, suffering injury and ultimately, death. This fascinating and beautifully written account of their war combines the bigger picture with snatches of personal experience, offering a soldier's-eye view of events and trying to make sense of what it was like to battle for days and weeks to gain just a few yards of desolate ground.