The story of why Hitler’s army was defeated in Russia in 1941 has been told many times; the long logistic trail, lack of cold weather clothing, adverse weather etc. This very detailed account of Op Barbarossa and it evolution, build up and execution, throws a different light on the endeavour, and highlights the infighting in the German High Command, the decisions made by Hitler that made no sense to the commanders in the field resulting in confusion during the battles. What becomes clear is that with proper preparation, clear command and control, the German army would have succeeded and achieved Hitlers’ aims.
Guderian was a very able Corps commander and was constantly travelling across the front to assess the tactical situation and shift his formations in timely fashion, unlike some of his compatriots. The fragility of the Russian defence of Moscow was very evident and immediately the reader likens this situation to that faced by Napolean who was ultimately defeated in the same way.
A fascinating book for the war historian that fills the gaps in the simplistic reasons for the German defeat in the East.

A well-done novel on the actions of Guderian and his panzer forces in Russia in WW2. The firsthand account of the action makes this a compelling read. An enjoyable book.

Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

A focus specifically on the barbarossa campaign. Guderian is a general that wrote a lot after the war to save face and revuild his reputation, so it's good to see a book examine events such as these before he could write them down in his own words.