Book description
From the author of the acclaimed The Thirty Years War and Heart of Europe, a masterful, landmark reappraisal of German military history, and of the preconceptions about German militarism since before the rise of Prussia and the world wars. German military history is typically viewed as an inexorable march to the rise of Prussia and the two world wars, the road paved by militarism and the result a specifically German way of war. Peter Wilson challenges this narrative. Looking beyond Prussia to German-speaking Europe across the last five centuries, Wilson finds little unique or preordained in German militarism or warfighting. Iron and Blood takes as its starting point the consolidation of the Holy Roman Empire, which created new mechanisms for raising troops but also for resolving disputes diplomatically. Both the empire and the Swiss Confederation were largely defensive in orientation, while German participation in foreign wars was most often in partnership with allies. The primary aggressor in Central Europe was not Prussia but the Austrian Habsburg monarchy, yet Austria's strength owed much to its ability to secure allies. Prussia, meanwhile, invested in militarization but maintained a part-time army well into the nineteenth century. Alongside Switzerland, which relied on traditional militia, both states exemplify the longstanding civilian element within German military power. Only after Prussia's unexpected victory over France in 1871 did Germans and outsiders come to believe in a German gift for warfare--a special capacity for high-speed, high-intensity combat that could overcome numerical disadvantage. It took two world wars to expose the fallacy of German military genius. Yet even today, Wilson argues, Germany's strategic position is misunderstood. The country now seen as a bastion of peace spends heavily on defense in comparison to its peers and is deeply invested in less kinetic contemporary forms of coercive power.
Starshine
The variety of narrators adds a unique touch to each book, making every experience special. Audiobooks on this app have made my morning rituals something to look forward to. ListenBook's dedication to delivering top-notch audio quality is evident in every detail. ListenBook has transformed my daily rituals into cherished opportunities for personal growth. I've found my new favorite narrator! Their voice was perfectly suited to this material, with just the right blend of authority and approachability. The production quality was broadcast-level - no distracting breaths, clicks, or inconsistent volume. Already looking for more of their work.
Mr. Fabulous
Drag and drop downloads directly from my web browser? That's a level of convenience I appreciate. ListenBook’s bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book. ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Great job, developers!
Racy Babe
I can't get enough of this app's versatile features – from playback speed to bookmarking, it's all there. This app has brought back the joy of reading, no matter how busy I am. ListenBook has become my trusted companion. It's my go-to app for expanding my knowledge and enjoyment.
Fiend Oblivion
ListenBook's multiple ways to download audio, including from the internet, are a game-changer. Makes listening to audiobooks easy and enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook! This app is a game-changer for audiobook lovers! The interface is clean and easy to use. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books at night.
VisionVortex
This app has made multitasking a breeze – I can listen while I work, cook, or exercise. Effortless audiobook exploration – this app's functionality is remarkable. Tone adjustment is a brilliant addition that lets me personalize the narration to my liking. It adds an extra layer of connection to the audiobooks.
InsightInkwell
ListenBook's multiple ways to download audio, including from the internet, are a game-changer. Thanks to this app, I can enjoy the world of literature without missing a beat in my fast-paced life. 🎉 Rekindling my literary flame – this app has brought back the joy of reading in a whole new format. 📖🚀 ListenBook has made my daily commutes so much more enjoyable. I look forward to listening every day!
Juno Cream
Audiobooks on this app have turned my exercise sessions into moments of education. Gone are the days of straining my eyes to read – this app lets me 'read' with my ears, anywhere, anytime. The audiobook player's silky-smooth playback is like music to my ears. Flawless performance!
Serendipity
ListenBook has redefined my workout routine. The controls are so user-friendly. Tone adjustment is a thoughtful addition that adds a personal touch to the audiobook narration. It's like having a narrator tailor their voice to my preferences. Looping playback helps me revise and memorize complex topics effectively. A study essential! The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Wild Tesla
The sound quality is outstanding – it's like having a movie theater in my ears! Listening stats motivate me to read more. Great feature! Love how I can adjust playback speed and audio volume. ListenBook caters to all my needs. This audiobook made my workouts fly by! The engaging narration kept me motivated to keep listening, which meant longer gym sessions. The narrator's energy matched the material perfectly - upbeat when needed, somber when appropriate. A great example of how narration can enhance text.
Achilles Mountain
This app's ease of use has made reading more accessible and enjoyable than ever before. 💼 Elevating my work-from-home routine with this app's delightful audiobook selection! 💻📖 Audiobooks on demand? Yes, please! With this app's robust features, I'm always just a tap away from immersing myself in captivating narratives. 📚📱 Perfect for my daily walks. The story was engaging enough to keep me motivated to exercise but not so complex that I got lost in thought. Great production quality too.
Bang Shift
The bookmark feature is a lifesaver – no more losing my place in the story! ListenBook's features are a dream come true for anyone who loves to learn on the go. With this app, I can enjoy my favorite stories while traveling, making my journeys more delightful. 🔥 Streamlined functionality that's music to my ears – audiobook enjoyment has reached a new level of convenience. 🎵📖 Binaural audio processing reduces fatigue during long listening sessions. A fantastic feature!
Handsome
Kudos to the app for making literature accessible to those with busy schedules. I'm impressed by ListenBook's commitment to providing a silky-smooth playback experience.
Joker's Grin
ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch is a testament to its innovation. Effortlessly enjoying audiobook journeys – this app's ease of use is a winner. Looping playback is my secret weapon for language learning. It's revolutionized my approach. Looping playback helps me focus on challenging content and grasp complex concepts. A study must-have! ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Great job, developers!
MysticMingle
The convenience of switching between devices without losing my place is a lifesaver. This app is a game-changer for busy individuals who miss reading. ListenBook has truly transformed my audiobook experience. The sleek interface, extensive format support, and easy downloading options make it my go-to app! Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my audiobook library look organized and visually appealing. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books at night.
Sun Runner
This app has made literature accessible and engaging for all ages. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has made my dictaphone recordings much more comfortable to listen to. ⭐️ Who knew cleaning could be this exciting? This app turns chores into adventures! 🧹🏰 ListenBook Pro has taken my audiobook experience to the next level. No regrets!
Burst Nibbler
Effortlessly exploring new worlds – this app's design is user-centric and efficient. ListenBook's tone adjustment feature in the Pro version is a creative tool that adds a fun twist to my audiobook journey. ListenBook's library organization keeps my audiobooks neat and accessible. A true organizational lifesaver! Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to connect over shared interests. ListenBook has broadened my horizons by introducing me to a diverse range of audiobooks. It's a gateway to endless knowledge, entertainment, and inspiration.
Sherm
ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. ListenBook has brought a whole new level of convenience and enjoyment to my audiobook experience. Love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device. As someone who listens to audiobooks daily, I can confidently say ListenBook is the best player out there. The sleep timer and auto-rewind features are lifesavers, and the sound quality is exceptional. Thank you for such a great app!
Ba1t
Listening to audiobooks has never been this convenient and enjoyable! The convenience of downloading audiobooks for offline listening is a game-changer. Audiobook heaven! This app has revolutionized the way I enjoy stories. Its sleek design and seamless functionality make it a must-have for book lovers. 📚🎧 ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a fascinating way to add a personal touch to my audiobook journey.
WanderWord
The noise reduction feature on ListenBook Pro is a godsend for clear and comfortable listening. 💡 Enriching my daily routines with wisdom and wonder – thank you, this app! 📱📖 Streamlining my audiobook journey – this app's design is top-notch. Looping playback is my favorite feature. It's perfect for revisiting complex content. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has transformed the audio quality. It's crystal clear now.
Gabriel Dandelion
🎧 Navigating through narratives has never been simpler – this app's functionality enhances my audiobook journey. 📚💫 Makes listening to audiobooks so easy and enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook! Quick access to chapters and smooth playback. Excellent app! I love the quick access to settings. It makes tweaking the app so easy.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience