Trapped Behind Enemy Lines: Accounts of British Soldiers and their Protectors in The Great War

As 1914 ends, the war which was supposed to be over by Christmas, had settled down to an entrenched stalemate. Trapped behind enemy lines are many British soldiers who are hidden by brave French families. The risks are high for both fugitives and their protectors. This book tells their story, while focussing on a young Scot who emerges from hiding as Mademoiselle Louise, leading an amazing double life for almost two years, ending in betrayal. Sentenced to death by the Germans only an impassionate plea from his adopted mother saves his life. Others are not so lucky.

After the war he speedily returns from captivity in Germany, via Scotland to France and marries his sweetheart, but life remains hard in the war ravaged country. This extraordinary story was only revealed by a British journalist in 1927. The Daily Telegraph readers’ response was overwhelming and culminated in our French heroines being feted on a lavish visit to London’s Mansion House and an audience with the King, Queen, Prince of Wales and a three year old Princess Elizabeth.

Trapped Behind Enemy Lines covers as aspect of The Great War that has been overlooked. It will be of interest to those who love intrigue, adventure, love and betrayal.