I want to start by commending the author on the extraordinary amount of time and and research he must have put into the writing of this book. This is likely to be the most comprehensive book ever to be written on this specific topic.

The book is presented in a concise timeline. The chapters alternate between US and Germany, allowing us to see how events unfolded, intertwined, and affected one another.

While this book is essentially about the coinciding rise of Hitler and FDR, there are a whole lot of other people involved and featured here. At the beginning of the book, there is a glossary of names along with brief biographies. A good chunk of the book isn't as much focused on Hitler and FDR as it is on the people surrounding them. We see how these other players within various political parties influenced situations and changed outcomes.

For me, the overwhelming attention to detail made for a slightly tedious read. Every campaign tidbit seemed to be included here. Some of this was interesting, but the minutiae began to numb my brain. I also felt the writing lacked an engaging narrative, making it feel too much like a recitation of facts. I don't think this book is particularly well suited to the casual reader. It is, however, ideal for anyone fascinated by the politics of the era.

One other thing to note: This book shows as 544 pages in print. Don't let this number deter you. I would guess that it's actually about 400 pages of reading. I read this one my Kindle, and the content ended at 62%. The remainder of the book is devoted to notes, organized by chapter.

*I was provided with an ebook copy by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.* ( )