The Cockleshell Raid recounts a daring British commando mission against German shipping in Bordeaux. On the night of December 7, 1942, a small group of British commandos in canoes launched an audacious attack on the occupied port of Bordeaux. Their objective was to infiltrate the harbor and inflict maximum damage on enemy merchant vessels. Despite facing treacherous conditions and the loss of two canoes, the remaining commandos successfully damaged five enemy ships before embarking on a perilous journey to evade capture and return to Britain.

The book provides a blow-by-blow account of the Cockleshell Raid, detailing the commandoes' infiltration of Bordeaux and their subsequent efforts to return to Britain. The narrative covers the successes of the mission, including damage inflicted on enemy ships, as well as the tragic fates of some of the participants. The author, Ken Ford, is known for his detailed military histories, suggesting a focus on operational specifics and historical accuracy. The subject matter points to a narrative that emphasizes the bravery and resilience of the commandos against overwhelming odds.