This is a well researched account of the siege, with an emphasis on the Soviet side of the lines, but not exclusively, so we do get enough information about the German side to keep the text balanced. The narrative is well supported with eye witness accounts, useful maps and pictures, making it easy to follow the events of the siege. The reasons for the early Soviet successes, and the eventual German victory are clearly explained, and the siege’s place in the overall war is made clear. This is a good account of a key but often under-appreciated battle of the Second World War.

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VaeVictis, November – December 2016

... The book devotes one chapter to the German breakthrough into the Crimea and another chapter to a detailed description of "fortress Sevastopol." After that, Donnell is all about the siege. Successive chapters cover the first assault in October and November 1941, the second assault at the end of the year, and events through the end of May 1942. Four chapters cover the third and final assault in June and July. All these chapters are packed with hard facts including OBs, dispositions, numbers of guns, casualties, etc. In particular, the author has made use of aerial photographs and modern mapping technology to illustrate positions and operations.

Ultimately, the author declares Sevastopol no feather in Manstein's cap, but a strategic victory for the Soviets, a victory that tied up an entire German army for months, rendered its divisions nearly toothless, and deprived Paulus' Sixth Army of much-needed reinforcements at Stalingrad.

A book of unexpectedly high quality

Stone & Stone - Bill Stone