SS- Steel Rain

by Tim Ripley

The Panzer Battles at the end of WW2

Genres: Military Fiction, History, World War II, Nonfiction, War

224 pages, Hardcover

First published January 11, 2002

Reviews

[Brett C · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was clearly written and the information was well presented. This book deals with the Waffen-SS Panzer divisions in the Western Front during World War II. The combat engagements with Allied Forces are presented for Waffen-SS Leibstandarte, Das Reich, Totenkopf, Hitlerjugend, Hohenstaufen, and Frundsberg from 1944-45. Largely panzer battles are examined in full at Normandy, Arnhem, and the Ardennes. The book details troop strength, support roles, and other important details. The back appendices include orders of battle, unit echelons, tables of organization and equipment, and other details.

At the beginning of the book a key to maps/map symbols and the list of colored maps is presented which I found helpful.

Overall I enjoyed this book and liked the accompanying pictures on every page. Great book. Thanks!

[Drew Tucker · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up to 4. Great descriptions of tactical-level battles and strategic considerations that led to them. An average amount of maps for a book like this--I found myself wishing for more in some places when Ripley would be going on about fighting around a village or river and we had not gotten a map in 4 pages. But I take that in stride (It doesn't ruin the experience, but more maps at key points would enhance understanding and enjoyment). Overall a fun and educational reading experience.