What Are The Best Military History Books in 2025

A gripping narrative of the first month of World War I

The Guns of August is a Pulitzer Prize-winning book by Barbara W. Tuchman that provides a detailed account of the first month of World War I. The book is renowned for its historical accuracy, depth of research, and engaging narrative style. It offers a fascinating insight into the decisions, mistakes, and human dramas that led to the 'war to end all wars'.

A captivating narrative of Churchill's defiance during London's darkest hour.

The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson is a gripping chronicle of Winston Churchill's leadership during the London Blitz of World War II. Bringing to life the harrowing period through extensive research and vivid storytelling, Larson explores how Churchill and his close circle experienced the war. The book is lauded for its detailed account, providing a unique perspective of one of the world's most iconic leaders in a time of crisis.

The story of Easy Company, 506th Regiment, 101st Airborne during WWII

Band of Brothers is a riveting account of a paratrooper company that parachuted into France early on D-Day morning, fought in the Battle of the Bulge, and captured Hitler's Eagle's Nest at Berchtesgaden. The book is based on interviews with survivors of Easy Company, as well as soldiers' journals and letters. This is a tale of extraordinary bravery and fear, brought to life by Stephen E. Ambrose's vivid storytelling.

An authoritative and comprehensive analysis of the origins of World War I.

The Guns of August by Barbara W. Tuchman is a classic work that meticulously examines the events and decisions that led to World War I. Tuchman weaves a captivating narrative, shedding light on the political maneuvers, miscalculations, and human follies that shaped the war. A must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of global conflict.

Sun Tzu's timeless treatise on military strategy

The Art of War is an ancient Chinese military treatise dating from the Late Spring and Autumn Period. The book is composed of 13 chapters, each of which is devoted to one aspect of warfare. While its focus is warfare, the principles expounded in the book are applicable to different fields like politics, business, sports, and more. It is a must-read for anyone interested in strategy and tactics.

An authoritative account of the Gulag system under Stalin’s rule.

Gulag: A History by Anne Applebaum is a comprehensive examination of the Soviet Union's forced labor camp system. Drawing on extensive archival research and personal accounts, Applebaum provides a detailed account of life within the Gulag system. The book offers a chilling insight into one of the darkest chapters of 20th-century history.

Antony Beevor's magisterial account of World War II

The Second World War is a comprehensive history of World War II that covers all the major theatres of the war. Antony Beevor, a highly respected historian, combines meticulous research with a remarkable sense of the human drama, producing a book that is both authoritative and gripping. The book provides a broad overview of the strategic decisions, battles, and individuals that shaped the course of the war.

A comprehensive three-volume set on the American involvement in World War II.

The Liberation Trilogy Box Set by Rick Atkinson is a definitive account of the American army's role in World War II. The trilogy begins with the war in North Africa in 1942, moves on to the invasion of Sicily and Italy, and concludes with the final battles in Western Europe. Atkinson's masterful storytelling brings the war to life, offering fresh insights into the conflict's key events.

John Keegan's comprehensive and readable history of World War I

The First World War is a comprehensive history of World War I by renowned historian John Keegan. Keegan examines the war from various perspectives, including political, economic, and social angles, while providing detailed accounts of the battles. This is a well-researched and readable book that captures the scale and human cost of the Great War.

An exhaustive exploration of the political, social, and military aspects of Nazi Germany.

The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich: A History of Nazi Germany by William L. Shirer is a definitive account of Nazi Germany from rise to downfall. Drawing on personal experience as a correspondent in Berlin and extensive documentation, Shirer provides an in-depth exploration of the political, social, and military aspects of the Third Reich, offering a comprehensive view of one of history's darkest regimes.