Empires Collide: The French and Indian War, 1754-63, edited by Ruth Sheppard, introduction by Willliam M. Fowler, Jr. (ISBN 1-84603-089-7, OspreyPublishing, 2427 Bond St., University Park, IL 60466, www.ospreypublishing.com, phone 866.620.6941, e-mail info@ospreydirect.com. Hardcover, 7 1/2" x 9 3/4", 272 pages, 64 black and white illustrations, 78 color illustrations, 17 maps, 2006, $24.95).

Deftly edited by Ruth Sheppard, Empires Collide combines elements from a number of previous Osprey books to synthesize a military history of the French and Indian War. All of the major campaigns and noteworthy engagements are described, with period maps and specially commissioned color maps and diagrams to enhance the understanding of the battles. Emphasis is also given to the combatants, with sections on French, British, Colonial, and Indian fighting men and their military organizations and tactics. A lavish collection of vintage and specially commissioned art makes this book a particularly useful and attractive reference.—Thomas R. Kailbourn