Specialty Press

From Barbarossa to Odessa- Volume 2

by  Denes Bernad, Dmitriy Karlenko, and Jean-Louis Roba

Reviewed By  Floyd S. Werner, Jr., IPMS# 26266

MSRP: $29.95 ISBN: 978-1-85780-280-1 Book Supplied by Specialty Press: www.specialtypress.com This softbound book, the second in a series of two, contains 96 pages on high quality paper with approximately 150 b/w and color photos. While the book covers the day to day operation of the Luftwaffe it also covers the Rumanian, Hungarian, Slovaks, and Bulgarians air arms. This is what sets this book apart from the rest. Focusing on the southern flank of the Eastern Front, you are treated to some unique airplanes from the combatants. What is nicely done is the color profiles that are contained in the book. Some that stand out are the Cr.42, IAR-80 and Pe-2. It is nice because these aircraft are not commonly seen in such beautiful profiles. The photos, many previously unpublished, are large and very clear. Some of the ones that stood out to me are of a couple of photos of a PS-84. What is a PS-84? The Soviet license built DC-3 of course. Also photos of one of my favorite airplanes, the IAR-80. Hungarian aircraft are shown to good effect, including Cr.42s and He-112s. Of course, the Luftwaffe was there too and there are plenty of photos of Bf-109s. Russian aircraft are naturally covered in everything from biplanes to bombers with parasite fighter aircraft are shown in the photographs. Bulgarian 109Es look interesting with their unique markings applied. The text is easy to read. There are no personal accounts, rather whole units and their actions are covered. This is valuable information and because it covers an area not normally covered I found it particularly fascinating. While a victory for the Germans the battles were hard fought on the Soviet side and by the German allies. The unique aircraft in the photos and color profiles, the often overlooked part of the front, and the day by day story made this book a valuable addition to my library. Highly recommended Thanks to Specialty Press for the review copy. The book may be ordered directly from Specialty Press at 1-800-895-4585 or by visiting www.specialtypress.com. A $6.95 shipping and handling fee is added to each order. Editor's Note: A separate review of Volume 1 is posted on this website.

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