Secret Germany

Stauffenberg and the True Story of Operation Valkyrie

By: Michael Baigent, Richard Leigh

Narrated by: Fleet Cooper

By July of 1944, the Third Reich's days were numbered. Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, a general staff insider with open eyes (and access to the Fuhrer), was convinced that assassinating Hitler was the only way to prevent the destruction of the Fatherland and the deaths of millions. On July 20, he hid a bomb-stuffed briefcase at a high-level meeting. The explosion tore through the room, but a table leg spared Hitler from the blast. The result was a witch hunt, a wave of executions, and a further pointless year of war. Michael Baigent and Richard Leigh deliver an exhilarating and definitive portrait of the anti-Nazi movement (called "Secret Germany") that almost killed Hitler. Secret Germany is the story of "World War II's boldest plot-that-failed" (Time), a coup that was a moral and spiritual necessity.©2008 Michael Baigent and the estate of Richard Leigh (P)2012 Audible, Inc.

In depth Background

Whilst some have complained the book does not focus enough on the actual events of operation Valkyrie it does go into great depth about the cultural background and the "secret Germany" that deeply influenced Stauffenberg. It is this insight that makes this an incredible read. You are given a view into the Germanic past that led both to the Nazi Party and the Moral Fortitude of Claus Von Stauffenberg. This is history that is not often investigated but gives deep insight into the German culture, myth, and volksgeist. A worthy read/listen.

Wow!

Well worth the listen! Being in the right place at the right time...and acting. It's a great reminder to do the good whether people see or not. May we all do the good within our reach!

False advertising

Narration
Almost poetic, such is its melody, the lilting inflection, intonation, pacing, and vocal tone.

Content/story
I anticipated a description of the planning and personalities leading up to Hitler’s failed assignation. I’ve listened to this audio three times and still cannot make out its purpose.

Mental Masturbation

Definitely not a narrative history. More like endless analysis similar to a CNN panel of "experts".

Ditch the Hogan’s Heroes Accent

The narrators fake German accent and faux German annunciation is irritating and annoying. It undermines an otherwise good book.