'Through revolution and empire, war and bloodshed, France remained fascinated with Australia, sending expeditions of dedicated young men to explore the utopian Paradise of the Pacific and Australia to the frozen hell of Antarctica. Voyages to the South Seas reveals the true stories of explorers who risked, and often lost, their lives in pursuit of their passion. It is the story of noble men impoverished by their passion, nobodies made famous by courage and intellect and young men–and some women–who often risked their lives for adventure and excitement but above all, in the pursuit of knowledge and discovery.
This is Australia through French eyes–beautiful, mystifying, untouched nature–an Australia few Englishmen ever saw.'
Source: Publisher's blurb.