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Title: Excellent Book for the Advanced Historian
Review: This is one of the most highly detailed and vivid campaign histories that I have ever read on the Second World War on the Eastern Front. The book is geared toward a specialized and highly informed reader, however, and the map book should be left open while reading unless you are familiar with German names for Hungarian locations as they existed in 1944/45. I also enjoyed Maier's personal interludes that provide insights into the behind-the-scenes fighting between various generals and the German High Command. Beware of the axe he has to grind over General Hermann Balck, however--I would read Balck's memoirs as well to get a more balanced view of his dealings with various SS commanders/units. Maier might be right--but check all of the sources on this point. Otherwise, an excellent reference and an engrossing read for the advanced WWII history buff.
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