I read parts of this book for my IB and AP European History class. I did not like it as much as some others like Contemporary Europe: A History by James Wilkinson and/or A History of the World by R.R. Palmer. Some people, who were not quite as history orientated liked it a lot better than the previously mentioned works. It is easier reading but at the expense of important details if you really want to get in depth with the history of Europe. It is nice though because there are a lot of primary sources inside, particulary letters from leaders to each other and the such. Overall an interesting mix of stuff.