Though Germany began WWII with what is undoubtedly the best army and air force in Europe, it had a second or even third-rate surface Navy. Much of this was due to the severe restrictions placed upon it by the Allies after WWI. The other is that there just wasn't time to build up a credible nautical force in the short time available and there was also the problem that her ship design was not the best. Unlike the rugged cruisers of WWI, the WWII versions were often placed out of commission or sunk by what would not be fatal blows for other ships. In addition, the sea-worthiness of German Cruisers was often poor.

Despite all the challenges, the few cruisers that were built by the Germans prior to and during the war were somewhat successful considering how badly they were outnumbered and kept in check by the Allies. Roughly half survived until the last months of the war, something that the more aggressive and active Japanese Navy cruisers were unable to do.

So few were the German cruisers that you can count them on the fingers of both hands. It starts with the Emden then goes to the three K class ships; Koln, Karlsruhe, and Konigsberg (which were basically improved Emdens). Then it moves to the Leipzig and Nurnberg, two of a five class build that were actually completed, and finally to the most graceful of the group, the Admiral Hipper, Blucher and Prinz Eugen.

Complete development and battle histories of all these ships is covered in the book, which along with the excellent profiles and color paintings really makes this a superb primer on the types. A fascinating read that should be on your shelves and the perfect companion to the earlier German Battleships book.

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