Fortress: The Great Siege of Przemysl

The book "The Fortress" is a masterpiece of military history that tells the story of the First World War's longest and most terrible siege, at Przemysl. It was one of the great turning points of the conflict, as it shaped the course of Europe's future and had a chilling harbinger of what would engulf the region in the coming decades.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 29 October 2020
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The Society for Military History has announced the winner of its prestigious Distinguished Book Award 2021, and the book in question has been shortlisted for several other prestigious awards in the field of military history. This remarkable work of historical scholarship has garnered widespread acclaim and recognition, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the First World War.

The book, titled "Przemysl: The Longest Siege of the First World War," is written by Alexander Watson, a prize-winning author known for his previous works "Ring of Steel" and "The Campaign for France." In this captivating narrative, Watson takes readers on a journey back to the autumn of 1914, when Europe was plunged into the throes of a devastating war. The battling powers had already suffered unimaginable casualties, and elaborate war plans lay in ruins on both the Western and Eastern fronts.

In the West, the remorseless world of the trenches emerged, with soldiers facing each other in a grim battle for survival. In the East, all eyes were focused on the old, beleaguered Austro-Hungarian fortress of Przemysl. The siege that unfolded at Przemysl was the longest of the whole war, lasting for over four months and resulting in the loss of 800,000 casualties for Austria-Hungary.

This siege was one of the great turning points of the conflict, as it shaped the course of Europe's future. If the Russians had broken through the fortress, they could have invaded Central Europe, but by the time it fell, their strength was so sapped that they could go no further. The fall of Przemysl marked a significant victory for the Allies, and it set the stage for the eventual defeat of the Central Powers.

Watson's book is a masterpiece of military history, meticulously researched and written with a deep understanding of the subject matter. He uses a huge range of sources, including personal accounts, official documents, and eyewitness testimony, to bring the reader into the heart of the conflict. The book vividly recreates a world of long-gone empires, broken armies, and a cut-off communication system, providing a unique perspective on the events of that fateful period.

One of the most impressive aspects of "Przemysl: The Longest Siege of the First World War" is Watson's ability to bring the characters to life. He profiles the leaders and soldiers who fought in the siege, providing a humanizing perspective on their experiences and sacrifices. The book also sheds light on the cultural and social aspects of the war, exploring how it affected the lives of ordinary people on both sides of the conflict.

In conclusion, "Przemysl: The Longest Siege of the First World War" is a must-read for anyone interested in military history. It is a gripping, well-researched, and beautifully written book that provides a fresh perspective on one of the most significant events of the 20th century. Alexander Watson's work deserves to become a classic of military history, and it is sure to inspire and educate future generations.

Weight: 296g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141986333