Zero Hour

Zero Hour: Courage, Sacrifice and the Canadian Corps in WWI is a sweeping, deeply researched chronicle of Canada's military journey through the First World War; from the muddy trenches of Ypres to the final, symbolic liberation of Mons.

In this definitive account, Samantha L.G. McCrea traces the evolution of the Canadian Corps from a fledgling force of volunteers to one of the most feared and effective fighting units on the Western Front. Covering every battle in which Canadians fought, Zero Hour brings to life the grit, heartbreak, and heroism of soldiers who shaped the outcome of the war, and the identity of a nation.

Through vivid storytelling and meticulous detail, readers will follow the Corps through the crucible of Vimy Ridge, the horror of Passchendaele, the audacity of the Canal du Nord, and the relentless push of the Hundred Days Offensive. Along the way, McCrea highlights the personal courage of men like Sergeant Hugh Cairns, Private John Francis Young, and the "Magnificent Seven" Victoria Cross recipients, whose actions defined the spirit of the Canadian soldier.

More than a military history, Zero Hour is a tribute to the sacrifice and resilience of a generation. It explores not only battlefield tactics and leadership, but also the human cost of war, and the enduring legacy of Canada's role in shaping the peace that followed.

Whether you're a student of history, a descendant of veterans, or simply a reader drawn to stories of courage and transformation, Zero Hour offers a powerful, immersive journey through one of the most pivotal chapters in Canadian history.