This book takes a deep dive into the end of World War II in the European Theatre. Germany in the time of Nazi rule was a place of hatred, blind obedience, fear tactics, and cruelty that resulted in genocide and slave labor. People's rights were stripped away and wild laws were enacted, the likes of which society hoped to never see again (though it is playing out in real time in several places around the globe as we speak). The last few months of the war, anyone could see that it was very clearly a lost cause, but Germany simply refused to give up...pulling elderly people and children out to fight in various capacities. Looking back, that seems insane, but that is what happens with you have a megalomaniac in control, I guess. It was very interesting to look at the many reasons people attempted to keep this war going, against all odds. It includes some quotes and conversations with people who were living in and serving Germany in various military capacities, which I loved. I think personal accounts are so important to the historical narrative, as well as just for simply understanding eras and mindsets different than our own or what we live in.

Ian Kershaw is one of my favorite historians. Everything I have read from this author has been enlightening. I first came across this author when I was looking for something for a project I had to do in one of my World War II classes, which was my specialization at the time. I have used his work as a source in several papers in my historical education, and I find great value in his writing. This book is well researched, beautifully written, informative, and offers up a lot of really valid points. If you are interested in World War II or need source material, especially in regards to the end of the war and Germany's capitulation, I would strongly suggest checking out this book. I actually have the Audible version of this book, and it was wonderful to listen to, even if was quite long. 

Fascinating. A helpful perspective of the war.