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Casca #4
Panzer Soldier
A Panzer soldier for the brutal Third Reich, Casca becomes entrenched in Hitler's Nazi war machine and is forced to pit his credit as a soldier against his moral judgment of humanity. Sporting the honorable Knight's Cross and a silver tanker's badge, Casca leads the 1st SS Panzer Regiment against the hammering forces of Ivan, the throttlehold of Russia's military. Comradery, survival instinct, and highly developed German tanks keep Casca and his crew forging ahead, but when the reality of Hitler's sinister manifesto is revealed to them, they begin to question their role in the destruction of humankind.
Amidst a bleak landscape of battle, Casca's chance encounter with a war-torn Jewish woman puts his sense of decency to the test and takes him to the one remaining bunker in Berlin—Hitler's lair—where he confronts the living madman. In the clandestine chamber of Adolf Hitler, secrets are revealed and destiny shows its hand.
159 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1980
126 people are currently reading
256 people want to read
About the author
Barry Sadler
109 books78 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
American author, musician and former green beret.
To the general public he is most known for the hit single "Ballad of the green berets"
After his musical career he decided to write a series of novels centered around the character "Casca Rufio Longinius" Who is cursed for piercing Jesus on the crucifix with a spear and is forced to forever remain a soldier until the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
In the mid 1980s Sadler moved to Guatemala City where he was shot in the head one night in a taxi. He spent 7 months in a coma and died more than a year later.
American author, musician and former green beret.
To the general public he is most known for the hit single "Ballad of the green berets"
After his musical career he decided to write a series of novels centered around the character "Casca Rufio Longinius" Who is cursed for piercing Jesus on the crucifix with a spear and is forced to forever remain a soldier until the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
In the mid 1980s Sadler moved to Guatemala City where he was shot in the head one night in a taxi. He spent 7 months in a coma and died more than a year later.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 6, 2025
This book is nonstop WWII action from the very beginning and shows the true horrors of the war especially along the frontlines of the Germans and Russians. The tank battles are nail biting and ratchet the tension up to where you don’t want to put the book down.
August 2, 2014
If you're not familiar with the series, it follows Casca, the legionnaire who killed Christ as he was dying on the cross. Christ cursed Casca to be as he was until they met again. Sadler wrote a couple of dozen books with Casca fighting as a soldier, usually some sort of grunt, in different time periods. He gets killed occasionally, but always comes back to fight another day, so provides a lot of adventure.
I've read all the Casca books written by Sadler when they first came out in published order
(Listed here: https://www.goodreads.com/series/5120...)
& have re-read some over the years, although it's been a long time. While this was the 4th published, it is the 16th chronologically according to this list:
http://www.amazon.com/Barry-Sadler-Ca...
Since Sadler died, another dozen have been published. I read one & decided it wasn't for me, but 3 different authors have tried their hand at them, so one of the others might be better. I didn't care too much for many of the later ones that Sadler did, though. I prefer it when the book concentrates more on the history than on how tough/cool Casca is. Sadler did that best with the first & the 20th century ones from WWI up through Vietnam, as I recall. This is possibly the best, IMO.
The vast majority of what I know about the German conflict in WWII is from the Allies' side, in Europe, or north Africa. This book has Casca as a Panzer tank commander at the Russian front which made for a very interesting perspective. The sheer amount of material & men involved was staggering, the hardships the men of both sides endured was awful. The view of the common German soldier & people as opposed to the SS fanatics was also interesting. Sadler manages to pack a lot of facts & attitudes in, but keeps the writing lean & quick.
Sadler did a good job describing a lot of the horrors of the war, but the editing could have been better. The writing was uneven at times. Sadler's characters are memorable, but sometimes he takes them a bit too far off the reservation & his terse phrases could make timing confusing. For instance, Casca stops for a rest break at noon, there is a descriptive sentence & then it is getting dark at 5pm, all in one paragraph. Generally though, I appreciated his quick style of writing.
Pet Peeve Alert: Sadler uses 'decimate' to mean 'halved' at one point. I know the popular definition has changed, but that's no excuse. I HATE it when it is used to mean wipe out, crush, demolish, eradicate, exterminate, extinguish, liquidate, obliterate, abolish, erase, expunge, extirpate, massacre, ruin, &/or slaughter. The root 'deci' means '1/10th of'. English is rich enough in words that there is no need to mangle a perfectly good one that actually defines itself.
Overall, I liked it a lot. It's a quick read, fun, & just what I needed since my mind is burned from too many details at work. I think I'll read another.
I've read all the Casca books written by Sadler when they first came out in published order
(Listed here: https://www.goodreads.com/series/5120...)
& have re-read some over the years, although it's been a long time. While this was the 4th published, it is the 16th chronologically according to this list:
http://www.amazon.com/Barry-Sadler-Ca...
Since Sadler died, another dozen have been published. I read one & decided it wasn't for me, but 3 different authors have tried their hand at them, so one of the others might be better. I didn't care too much for many of the later ones that Sadler did, though. I prefer it when the book concentrates more on the history than on how tough/cool Casca is. Sadler did that best with the first & the 20th century ones from WWI up through Vietnam, as I recall. This is possibly the best, IMO.
The vast majority of what I know about the German conflict in WWII is from the Allies' side, in Europe, or north Africa. This book has Casca as a Panzer tank commander at the Russian front which made for a very interesting perspective. The sheer amount of material & men involved was staggering, the hardships the men of both sides endured was awful. The view of the common German soldier & people as opposed to the SS fanatics was also interesting. Sadler manages to pack a lot of facts & attitudes in, but keeps the writing lean & quick.
Sadler did a good job describing a lot of the horrors of the war, but the editing could have been better. The writing was uneven at times. Sadler's characters are memorable, but sometimes he takes them a bit too far off the reservation & his terse phrases could make timing confusing. For instance, Casca stops for a rest break at noon, there is a descriptive sentence & then it is getting dark at 5pm, all in one paragraph. Generally though, I appreciated his quick style of writing.
Pet Peeve Alert: Sadler uses 'decimate' to mean 'halved' at one point. I know the popular definition has changed, but that's no excuse. I HATE it when it is used to mean wipe out, crush, demolish, eradicate, exterminate, extinguish, liquidate, obliterate, abolish, erase, expunge, extirpate, massacre, ruin, &/or slaughter. The root 'deci' means '1/10th of'. English is rich enough in words that there is no need to mangle a perfectly good one that actually defines itself.
Overall, I liked it a lot. It's a quick read, fun, & just what I needed since my mind is burned from too many details at work. I think I'll read another.
April 8, 2022
Still liking the series.
June 9, 2020
By far the best so far in the series.
Sadler finally shows a little finesse with his writing. He also lets his eternal soldier actually grow within the story even if he has been cursed to 'remain as he was and to never change' or whatever the curse given by 'that Jew' on that cross was.
Sadler as the writer clearly has mixed loyalties within this story. He really and truly hates the Russians and sees them as the greater threat but reconciles that with the knowledge that the Germans are the real monsters. The appearance of the 'brotherhood' of deadenders adds some welcomed intrigue to the story.
Sadler finally shows some writing ability and allows for some character development and is probably starting to realize that he can bring some writing talent to his concept while giving the reader more than trivial cliches. Oh yeah, he still has this thing against women that does reflect the time period of 1980ish.
Sadler finally shows a little finesse with his writing. He also lets his eternal soldier actually grow within the story even if he has been cursed to 'remain as he was and to never change' or whatever the curse given by 'that Jew' on that cross was.
Sadler as the writer clearly has mixed loyalties within this story. He really and truly hates the Russians and sees them as the greater threat but reconciles that with the knowledge that the Germans are the real monsters. The appearance of the 'brotherhood' of deadenders adds some welcomed intrigue to the story.
Sadler finally shows some writing ability and allows for some character development and is probably starting to realize that he can bring some writing talent to his concept while giving the reader more than trivial cliches. Oh yeah, he still has this thing against women that does reflect the time period of 1980ish.
March 25, 2016
The Casca stories are quick reads that are filled with violence and adventure from a solider who found a niche and filled it.
December 21, 2019
A departure from the chronological order of the first three.
Casca is now a soldier on the eastern German front fighting the Russians. It's interesting to see the Russians as villains in WWII especially since they were one of the Allies. Soldiers, regardless of their side, aren't wholly evil or good. Most are just ordinary folks fighting another man's war.
"Most men are no different, no matter what color the uniform they wear. Most Germans are the same as men everywhere, with families that they love, but they, like the Russians, are victims of a few ambitious men, men gone insane seeking their immortality; and insanity is contagious, it can drive those about them mad with the same sickness of mind and spirit."
The creepy brotherhood from book three surface again. They have not been idle in the passing centuries!
I'm not a fan of WWII stories, mainly b/c it's all too real; too recent. The first third of the book is about Casca and his squad in their tank. Fighting other tanks. Equipment and explosions. I was quite bored. Once the retreat begins, I feel like, the story begins. One by one Casca loses his comrades, one in a sad and spectacular way.
Enjoyable quick read, recommended!
Casca is now a soldier on the eastern German front fighting the Russians. It's interesting to see the Russians as villains in WWII especially since they were one of the Allies. Soldiers, regardless of their side, aren't wholly evil or good. Most are just ordinary folks fighting another man's war.
"Most men are no different, no matter what color the uniform they wear. Most Germans are the same as men everywhere, with families that they love, but they, like the Russians, are victims of a few ambitious men, men gone insane seeking their immortality; and insanity is contagious, it can drive those about them mad with the same sickness of mind and spirit."
The creepy brotherhood from book three surface again. They have not been idle in the passing centuries!
I'm not a fan of WWII stories, mainly b/c it's all too real; too recent. The first third of the book is about Casca and his squad in their tank. Fighting other tanks. Equipment and explosions. I was quite bored. Once the retreat begins, I feel like, the story begins. One by one Casca loses his comrades, one in a sad and spectacular way.
Enjoyable quick read, recommended!
April 29, 2015
So you just a soldier doing your job. You shove a spear tip into the side of this supposed messiah, except he is the real thing. He curses you to wander the earth till his return. Not bad right, immortality and all. Oh but he also curses you to be a soldier forever at war, never to know peace. This is the story of Casca the Roman legionnaire that stabbed Christ. Forever wandering the earth fighting one war after another. Great adventure series. Very recommended
October 2, 2024
Good descriptive, historical, war is hell narrative of an immortal warrior as he travels through the ages.
Not much in the way of his cursed condition is mentioned in this book, which can easily be read in a single sitting.
A tank commander(Casca) and his crews exploits against the Russians near the end of WWII.
The crew are slowly whittled down until only Casca remains, even the tank expires. Casca also gets to meet Hitler.
Not much in the way of his cursed condition is mentioned in this book, which can easily be read in a single sitting.
A tank commander(Casca) and his crews exploits against the Russians near the end of WWII.
The crew are slowly whittled down until only Casca remains, even the tank expires. Casca also gets to meet Hitler.
November 2, 2020
This was a pretty good read. I generally prefer the Casca stories set in pre-gunpowder eras with an emphasis on swords, but I really enjoyed this one. Casca runs a German tank crew in late WWII against the overwhelming forces of Russia, with the epic battle of Kursk as the main set-piece. Lots of great action, but grounded with the horrors of war. Recommended!
March 6, 2023
"Casca: The Panzer Soldier" is the fourth book in the Casca series. The book follows the adventures of Casca Rufio Longinus, a Roman soldier who is cursed to live forever as a punishment for piercing the side of Jesus Christ with his spear. In this installment, Casca finds himself fighting for the German army during World War II.
The book begins with Casca in North Africa, where he is serving as a mercenary for the French Foreign Legion. He is recruited by a German officer named von Kassel, who recognizes Casca's fighting abilities and offers him a position in the German army. Casca accepts the offer, as he sees it as an opportunity to continue his never-ending quest for battle and redemption.
Casca is sent to the Eastern Front, where he becomes a Panzer soldier, operating one of the deadly tanks that the German army used in their invasion of the Soviet Union. The book provides a vivid and detailed description of the battles fought by the Germans on the Eastern Front, including the brutal winter conditions that the soldiers had to endure.
One of the interesting aspects of the book is the portrayal of the German soldiers as human beings, rather than simply evil Nazis. Casca interacts with his fellow soldiers, and the book provides a glimpse into the camaraderie and bonds that developed among them. However, the brutality of war is never far away, and the book does not shy away from depicting the horrors of the battlefield.
The plot of the book is driven by Casca's quest for redemption. He sees his service in the German army as a way of atoning for his sins and finding a purpose in his eternal life. However, as the war progresses and the atrocities committed by the Germans become increasingly apparent, Casca begins to question the morality of his actions. He becomes torn between his loyalty to his comrades and his sense of right and wrong.
Overall, "Casca: The Panzer Soldier" is an engaging and well-written book. Sadler does an excellent job of immersing the reader in the world of World War II, and his descriptions of the battles are both vivid and realistic. The character of Casca is intriguing, and his struggle with his own morality adds depth to the story. The book is not without flaws, however. Some readers may find the portrayal of the Germans to be too sympathetic, and the ending of the book feels somewhat rushed. Nonetheless, for fans of the Casca series or World War II fiction in general, "Casca: The Panzer Soldier" is a worthwhile read.
The book begins with Casca in North Africa, where he is serving as a mercenary for the French Foreign Legion. He is recruited by a German officer named von Kassel, who recognizes Casca's fighting abilities and offers him a position in the German army. Casca accepts the offer, as he sees it as an opportunity to continue his never-ending quest for battle and redemption.
Casca is sent to the Eastern Front, where he becomes a Panzer soldier, operating one of the deadly tanks that the German army used in their invasion of the Soviet Union. The book provides a vivid and detailed description of the battles fought by the Germans on the Eastern Front, including the brutal winter conditions that the soldiers had to endure.
One of the interesting aspects of the book is the portrayal of the German soldiers as human beings, rather than simply evil Nazis. Casca interacts with his fellow soldiers, and the book provides a glimpse into the camaraderie and bonds that developed among them. However, the brutality of war is never far away, and the book does not shy away from depicting the horrors of the battlefield.
The plot of the book is driven by Casca's quest for redemption. He sees his service in the German army as a way of atoning for his sins and finding a purpose in his eternal life. However, as the war progresses and the atrocities committed by the Germans become increasingly apparent, Casca begins to question the morality of his actions. He becomes torn between his loyalty to his comrades and his sense of right and wrong.
Overall, "Casca: The Panzer Soldier" is an engaging and well-written book. Sadler does an excellent job of immersing the reader in the world of World War II, and his descriptions of the battles are both vivid and realistic. The character of Casca is intriguing, and his struggle with his own morality adds depth to the story. The book is not without flaws, however. Some readers may find the portrayal of the Germans to be too sympathetic, and the ending of the book feels somewhat rushed. Nonetheless, for fans of the Casca series or World War II fiction in general, "Casca: The Panzer Soldier" is a worthwhile read.
December 11, 2020
Panzer Soldier is a bit different from previous entries in the Casca series. Earlier books often took place over many years and/or over major regions. Everything seemed very epic in earlier books. This book, however, is a lot more localized and takes place over about 2 years. As the title suggests, Casca is a tank soldier during World War 2, fighting for the Nazis. Right away I was a bit skeptical about this twist as the Nazis are often the go to bad guys in all movies or novels (my grandfather fought against Nazis in World War 2 so I don’t have much sympathy for them). Why would anyone want to fight for them? Casca has his own reasons, which I believe had more to do with Sadler’s dislike for Communists than anything.
The best part of this book occurs at the beginning during the battle of Kursk, the largest tank battle in history. Casca is just a crew member of one German tank crew facing off against the Russian. No longer is he the warlord or leader, he is just a grunt, which is a welcome change. Sadler does very well at jumping from a larger view of the conflict with brief mentions of Generals and then focusing on the battle from the view of the soldier, this case represented by Casca and his crew.
Each member of his tank crew are great characters with their own eccentricities and is given a moment to shine. As the war starts going against Germany, we feel their desperation for survival. One theme in this book is the barbarism that inflicts eastern Europe from both the Nazis and Russia. Everything is very bleak. Casca has enemies among the SS as well as the Russians, which puts him in some harrowing situations. He also encounters the Brotherhood of the Lamb, introduced in the previous book. How they are introduced in the book and the role they play in World War 2 and history is a splendid example of alternate history.
At one point I was beginning to wonder if this was another novel that Sadler wrote and later adopted to the Casca series as it did not fit the Casca mold that I have been used to in previous volumes. This book could have been a really good book about World War 2 with some careful edits as it works well as a stand alone book. As a Casca novel, it is very different, but so far is the best written in the entire series.
The best part of this book occurs at the beginning during the battle of Kursk, the largest tank battle in history. Casca is just a crew member of one German tank crew facing off against the Russian. No longer is he the warlord or leader, he is just a grunt, which is a welcome change. Sadler does very well at jumping from a larger view of the conflict with brief mentions of Generals and then focusing on the battle from the view of the soldier, this case represented by Casca and his crew.
Each member of his tank crew are great characters with their own eccentricities and is given a moment to shine. As the war starts going against Germany, we feel their desperation for survival. One theme in this book is the barbarism that inflicts eastern Europe from both the Nazis and Russia. Everything is very bleak. Casca has enemies among the SS as well as the Russians, which puts him in some harrowing situations. He also encounters the Brotherhood of the Lamb, introduced in the previous book. How they are introduced in the book and the role they play in World War 2 and history is a splendid example of alternate history.
At one point I was beginning to wonder if this was another novel that Sadler wrote and later adopted to the Casca series as it did not fit the Casca mold that I have been used to in previous volumes. This book could have been a really good book about World War 2 with some careful edits as it works well as a stand alone book. As a Casca novel, it is very different, but so far is the best written in the entire series.
December 1, 2018
While I read this series years ago, I think that this was one of my favourites. As a history major with a great interest in WWII, I enjoyed the weaving of history with fiction.
However, I have to say that as I get back into the series, some of the writing is bad and the editing is horrible. Different spellings of battalion/batallion and other words was annoying. With a lot better editing, this series could have been quite good.
I still like the premise of a soldier cursed to live until Christ returns, but Harry Turtledove and others do a much better job of writing this stuff.
I love how Casca ends up with an overly large, but reliable and happy companion in two of the four books so far. Happenstance? Cliché? Your call.
I still think that they are a fun read and Sadler writes combat well. Worth the mindless time spent reading.
However, I have to say that as I get back into the series, some of the writing is bad and the editing is horrible. Different spellings of battalion/batallion and other words was annoying. With a lot better editing, this series could have been quite good.
I still like the premise of a soldier cursed to live until Christ returns, but Harry Turtledove and others do a much better job of writing this stuff.
I love how Casca ends up with an overly large, but reliable and happy companion in two of the four books so far. Happenstance? Cliché? Your call.
I still think that they are a fun read and Sadler writes combat well. Worth the mindless time spent reading.
February 7, 2025
Ehhh. I think that there was I time when I was a very young man that I would have loved this series of books. The concept itself is neat enough, but in reading this one I've realized exactly why I'm not to in love with the books. It has nothing to do with the writing, I am just starting to get burned out on war fiction. I can for sure say that Sadler seems very knowledgeable when it comes to war through the ages. Under normal circumstances, that would push the star count up to at least 3, but I don't know.
The book is fine and all in all, the series seems like a good one for people who are into this sort of story, I don't regret reading it or anything, I'm just kind of done reading war fiction for a while.
The book is fine and all in all, the series seems like a good one for people who are into this sort of story, I don't regret reading it or anything, I'm just kind of done reading war fiction for a while.
February 22, 2020
Casca meets Goldman again and tells him of when he fought on the German side in WW2 in a tank crew against the Russians (the Ivans). In this story, he is called Carl Langer (a name used again in later books) rather than Casca. Langer is fighting to stop Communism spreading all over Europe but when Jews are murdered in the Final Solution, he finds he can no longer stomach the Germans and fights them too. After many battles, he is finally caught and brought before Hitler himself who along with others know of his supernatural history. The book is worth reading for the wealth of detail of the fight between the Nazis and Russians, showing that war is truly hell.
May 30, 2020
Casca 4
This is the 4th book I have read in this series.
The books are an easy read and keep your interest up continually. The trials and tribulations of Casca are bringing him to be a normal person who just can't die. The history in each book is very accurate and adds another level of interest. This series is for someone who likes adventure and history.
This is the 4th book I have read in this series.
The books are an easy read and keep your interest up continually. The trials and tribulations of Casca are bringing him to be a normal person who just can't die. The history in each book is very accurate and adds another level of interest. This series is for someone who likes adventure and history.
November 12, 2019
This is the first time Casca is introduced to the Brotherhood of the Candle which appears in the form of leaders of the SS who are interested in the occult and Casca's spear.
May 13, 2021
An entertaining series
This is a nice interesting series with interesting characters and an intriguing storyline. Follow along as cascade continues his eternal adventures
This is a nice interesting series with interesting characters and an intriguing storyline. Follow along as cascade continues his eternal adventures
February 26, 2023
Wasn’t my favorite of the series. You can definitely tell there is a shift in the writing style with the characters. Except the ending, it’s straight up Casca we know and love.
January 31, 2024
Great book just like the other 3 it's got action and it keeps you hanging on I definitely recommend a read and I'm on to number 5 now, the barbarian.
February 16, 2024
Book 4 of the Casca series during which he cough in the German Army on the eastern front. A decent story but in some plot twists seems a bit unbelievable.
December 21, 2024
a little long in the tooth
There are better reads in this series. But i enjoyed it nonetheless as i want to read them all. But this one can be skipped.
There are better reads in this series. But i enjoyed it nonetheless as i want to read them all. But this one can be skipped.
January 31, 2025
This beautiful book made me view the Germans as fellow human beings who suffer and bleed just like we do, as opposed to all the Sgt Rock/John Wayne garbage I had been fed before.
March 20, 2015
This is standard Casca series book. If you are familiar with it you pretty much know what to expect. If you are not you should read first one in the series before going further.
This book has its flaws, some specific to this one and some that are standard in entire series. Sadler's writting style has always been a bit juvenile and this one is no better. Sometimes he tries to be funny, witty or make characters even more bad ass but all it achieves is to make everything annoying.
Sadler continues to treat women characters (who are again mere sideshow and their existance serves only to serve character, in one way or the other) as sluts and without mind of their own, swooning over heroes and dropping their panties almost by reflex when they meet "a real man". There is significant difference in how he treats women on different sides. There is a scene where our heroes retreat through Baltics (which Sadler claims is first enemy territory Soviets conquer, more on that later) and see aftermath of Red Army rape. While Casca and his friends are not exactlly outraged they are still saddened. And yet earlier in the book positions are reversed and one of Casca's comrades rapes Soviet female mortar crewmember, only situation unfolds so that it's not actually a rape and she was willing (see my point about Sadler's treatment of women above), she is satisfied by prime example of German manhood and is in fact in love but war prevents her from being with her new found love.
Casca and his crew are shown as "good Germans", people who fought for Germany but weren't Nazis, in fact they were anti-Nazis. People who claim they were misled by Hitler, who were shocked when they learned about Holocaust and so on. I guess it was to be expected since Sadler had to reconcile Casca being a hero while serving Nazi regime.
This book also shows that Sadler didn't bother to do any research and relied on casual knowledge he got from reading books and articles. Units get misidentified, their locations are all wrong, technical details are off (e.g. Panther tank had gasoline engine, not diesel as Sadler claims), distances are given as either too short or too long. These are things that only short time researching would allow to get right.
Then there are things that just don't add up. For example in late 1944/early 1945 there were no more mass transfers of Jews by rail (last major move was in summer of 1944 from Hungary to Auschwitz) yet we get a scene more in place in 1940-42 time frame. Then we get anti-partisan units operating in East Prussia, Casca and his companion spend a long time (not exact time is given but it's between weeks and months) running around East Prussia yet they start when Soviets are on the border and never see Red Army despite historical fact that within time they spend there area was overrun by Soviets. And these are far from only ones, again showing Sadler didn't as much as glance on the map of Europe and didn't bother to read even enyclopedia (that's 1980s Wikipedia equivalent, for those too young to remember) entry about relevant military operations. Not to mention last time he sees one of his friends is described twice with very different circumstances.
Sloppy writting and sloppy editing, if Sadler made those mistakes any editor worth their pay should spot them.
With this in mind I have to wonder how any similar mistakes are in other works. But so far I didn't see any because I'm not very familiar with time periods in question. Also Sadler got away with it easier since we know less details about 2nd cetury roman campaigns than we do about WW2.
Overall one of worse book in series.
This book has its flaws, some specific to this one and some that are standard in entire series. Sadler's writting style has always been a bit juvenile and this one is no better. Sometimes he tries to be funny, witty or make characters even more bad ass but all it achieves is to make everything annoying.
Sadler continues to treat women characters (who are again mere sideshow and their existance serves only to serve character, in one way or the other) as sluts and without mind of their own, swooning over heroes and dropping their panties almost by reflex when they meet "a real man". There is significant difference in how he treats women on different sides. There is a scene where our heroes retreat through Baltics (which Sadler claims is first enemy territory Soviets conquer, more on that later) and see aftermath of Red Army rape. While Casca and his friends are not exactlly outraged they are still saddened. And yet earlier in the book positions are reversed and one of Casca's comrades rapes Soviet female mortar crewmember, only situation unfolds so that it's not actually a rape and she was willing (see my point about Sadler's treatment of women above), she is satisfied by prime example of German manhood and is in fact in love but war prevents her from being with her new found love.
Casca and his crew are shown as "good Germans", people who fought for Germany but weren't Nazis, in fact they were anti-Nazis. People who claim they were misled by Hitler, who were shocked when they learned about Holocaust and so on. I guess it was to be expected since Sadler had to reconcile Casca being a hero while serving Nazi regime.
This book also shows that Sadler didn't bother to do any research and relied on casual knowledge he got from reading books and articles. Units get misidentified, their locations are all wrong, technical details are off (e.g. Panther tank had gasoline engine, not diesel as Sadler claims), distances are given as either too short or too long. These are things that only short time researching would allow to get right.
Then there are things that just don't add up. For example in late 1944/early 1945 there were no more mass transfers of Jews by rail (last major move was in summer of 1944 from Hungary to Auschwitz) yet we get a scene more in place in 1940-42 time frame. Then we get anti-partisan units operating in East Prussia, Casca and his companion spend a long time (not exact time is given but it's between weeks and months) running around East Prussia yet they start when Soviets are on the border and never see Red Army despite historical fact that within time they spend there area was overrun by Soviets. And these are far from only ones, again showing Sadler didn't as much as glance on the map of Europe and didn't bother to read even enyclopedia (that's 1980s Wikipedia equivalent, for those too young to remember) entry about relevant military operations. Not to mention last time he sees one of his friends is described twice with very different circumstances.
Sloppy writting and sloppy editing, if Sadler made those mistakes any editor worth their pay should spot them.
With this in mind I have to wonder how any similar mistakes are in other works. But so far I didn't see any because I'm not very familiar with time periods in question. Also Sadler got away with it easier since we know less details about 2nd cetury roman campaigns than we do about WW2.
Overall one of worse book in series.
April 2, 2025
With Sadler's first book set in a modern war, it's easy to see him come into his own field of expertise. It's very clear that Sadler had waited a while until he wrote a book about modern conflict, and with his first entry into the concept he put a lot of his thoughts down on the paper.
Panzer Soldier does a very solid job of describing the eastern front of European WWII in nuanced and realistic manner. Powerful imagery and decent pacing lead this book to be my favorite of the series since the first. I'll admit that I was worried at first with Sadler's framing from the Nazi's POV, but to my pleasant surprise I found it a nuanced and well pitched scenario.
Sadler continues his tendency to create a cast of characters that toe the line between unique and original and stereotypes that I can never really identify, but always feel like I've seen before. He offers some very solid insight into both the mind of your average soldier in this conflict as well as those minds that swore to the Third Reich.
I give it 4 stars as while there's nothing wrong with this book, in fact I was very impressed with the book plenty of times, I can't right now give it the five stars I wish I could, as I feel Sadler had a bit of a tendancy to be a bit overly-stereotypical and unnecessarily pulpy (Sadler will sometimes revel in the horrors of these conflicts in a way that feels a little forced) in some regards, not to very significant degree, but enough to take away just enough from this being a truly fantastic read about a soldier's perspective
Panzer Soldier does a very solid job of describing the eastern front of European WWII in nuanced and realistic manner. Powerful imagery and decent pacing lead this book to be my favorite of the series since the first. I'll admit that I was worried at first with Sadler's framing from the Nazi's POV, but to my pleasant surprise I found it a nuanced and well pitched scenario.
Sadler continues his tendency to create a cast of characters that toe the line between unique and original and stereotypes that I can never really identify, but always feel like I've seen before. He offers some very solid insight into both the mind of your average soldier in this conflict as well as those minds that swore to the Third Reich.
I give it 4 stars as while there's nothing wrong with this book, in fact I was very impressed with the book plenty of times, I can't right now give it the five stars I wish I could, as I feel Sadler had a bit of a tendancy to be a bit overly-stereotypical and unnecessarily pulpy (Sadler will sometimes revel in the horrors of these conflicts in a way that feels a little forced) in some regards, not to very significant degree, but enough to take away just enough from this being a truly fantastic read about a soldier's perspective
December 12, 2017
Today’s book review is for “Casca: Panzer Soldier” (1980©) written by Barry Sadler. This is book four in the “Casca – The Eternal Mercenary” series. This is a re-read for me. My first reading would have been sometime in the early to mid-1980’s.
Casca Rufio Longinus is the legendary Roman soldier who slayed Christ with a spear. Just prior to dying, the Messiah tells Casca: “You are satisfied with what you are and so you shall remain until we meet again.” Thus began the (series and) adventures of Casca across two-thousand years (and counting).
In this volume, Carl Langer (Casca) has decided that Communism will be the end of Western Civilization, so he joins the German Army to fight the Russians on the Eastern Front. Too late, he discovers the horrors of the Nazis and their “Final Solution”. Casca also uncovers the role played by “The Brotherhood” in the war. (See yesterday’s post for a brief intro to the “Brotherhood”.)
Like every book in this series, the descriptions of battles are graphic and powerful. There is just enough historical accuracy thrown in to make the series “feel” like you are reading real history. I think this is always the mark of good historical fiction – you almost believe you are reading an actual account.
Just like yesterday’s volume, this book is a fast read, typical of this series and many of the “male adventure-series” from that time period. If you are “into” this genre (and I am), you will thoroughly enjoy this book (and I did). I particularly like the historical fiction aspects of the series. Highly recommended (book and series).
Casca Rufio Longinus is the legendary Roman soldier who slayed Christ with a spear. Just prior to dying, the Messiah tells Casca: “You are satisfied with what you are and so you shall remain until we meet again.” Thus began the (series and) adventures of Casca across two-thousand years (and counting).
In this volume, Carl Langer (Casca) has decided that Communism will be the end of Western Civilization, so he joins the German Army to fight the Russians on the Eastern Front. Too late, he discovers the horrors of the Nazis and their “Final Solution”. Casca also uncovers the role played by “The Brotherhood” in the war. (See yesterday’s post for a brief intro to the “Brotherhood”.)
Like every book in this series, the descriptions of battles are graphic and powerful. There is just enough historical accuracy thrown in to make the series “feel” like you are reading real history. I think this is always the mark of good historical fiction – you almost believe you are reading an actual account.
Just like yesterday’s volume, this book is a fast read, typical of this series and many of the “male adventure-series” from that time period. If you are “into” this genre (and I am), you will thoroughly enjoy this book (and I did). I particularly like the historical fiction aspects of the series. Highly recommended (book and series).
December 12, 2017
Today’s book review is for “Casca: Panzer Soldier” (1980©) written by Barry Sadler. This is book four in the “Casca – The Eternal Mercenary” series. This is a re-read for me. My first reading would have been sometime in the early to mid-1980’s.
Casca Rufio Longinus is the legendary Roman soldier who slayed Christ with a spear. Just prior to dying, the Messiah tells Casca: “You are satisfied with what you are and so you shall remain until we meet again.” Thus began the (series and) adventures of Casca across two-thousand years (and counting).
In this volume, Carl Langer (Casca) has decided that Communism will be the end of Western Civilization, so he joins the German Army to fight the Russians on the Eastern Front. Too late, he discovers the horrors of the Nazis and their “Final Solution”. Casca also uncovers the role played by “The Brotherhood” in the war. (See yesterday’s post for a brief intro to the “Brotherhood”.)
Like every book in this series, the descriptions of battles are graphic and powerful. There is just enough historical accuracy thrown in to make the series “feel” like you are reading real history. I think this is always the mark of good historical fiction – you almost believe you are reading an actual account.
Just like yesterday’s volume, this book is a fast read, typical of this series and many of the “male adventure-series” from that time period. If you are “into” this genre (and I am), you will thoroughly enjoy this book (and I did). I particularly like the historical fiction aspects of the series. Highly recommended (book and series).
Casca Rufio Longinus is the legendary Roman soldier who slayed Christ with a spear. Just prior to dying, the Messiah tells Casca: “You are satisfied with what you are and so you shall remain until we meet again.” Thus began the (series and) adventures of Casca across two-thousand years (and counting).
In this volume, Carl Langer (Casca) has decided that Communism will be the end of Western Civilization, so he joins the German Army to fight the Russians on the Eastern Front. Too late, he discovers the horrors of the Nazis and their “Final Solution”. Casca also uncovers the role played by “The Brotherhood” in the war. (See yesterday’s post for a brief intro to the “Brotherhood”.)
Like every book in this series, the descriptions of battles are graphic and powerful. There is just enough historical accuracy thrown in to make the series “feel” like you are reading real history. I think this is always the mark of good historical fiction – you almost believe you are reading an actual account.
Just like yesterday’s volume, this book is a fast read, typical of this series and many of the “male adventure-series” from that time period. If you are “into” this genre (and I am), you will thoroughly enjoy this book (and I did). I particularly like the historical fiction aspects of the series. Highly recommended (book and series).
February 10, 2023
My favorite book in the series, "Panzer Soldier" by Barry Sadler is a thrilling and intense installment of Casca's 2000-year-long journey. Set against the backdrop of the Eastern front in World War 2, this book takes the reader on a gritty and vivid journey. The protagonist, Casca, is joined by a cast of well-developed characters who make up his Panzer tank crew, one of whom goes on to appear in several future books. Sadler does an excellent job of bringing each character to life, making them interesting and memorable.
"Panzer Soldier" does not shy away from depicting the absurdity of war, showcasing the senseless violence and destruction that often accompany it. The highlight of the book, for me, was the intense duel between Casca and a Russian aristocrat who believes he has mastered the art of fencing. This scene is a testament to the author's storytelling prowess, as the tension builds to a thrilling climax.
Despite the fast-paced action, "Panzer Soldier" also has a surprisingly contemplative vibe, allowing readers to reflect on the larger themes of war and humanity. Overall, this book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, military fiction, and action-packed adventure stories.
"Panzer Soldier" does not shy away from depicting the absurdity of war, showcasing the senseless violence and destruction that often accompany it. The highlight of the book, for me, was the intense duel between Casca and a Russian aristocrat who believes he has mastered the art of fencing. This scene is a testament to the author's storytelling prowess, as the tension builds to a thrilling climax.
Despite the fast-paced action, "Panzer Soldier" also has a surprisingly contemplative vibe, allowing readers to reflect on the larger themes of war and humanity. Overall, this book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, military fiction, and action-packed adventure stories.
June 28, 2012
One of the best in the series with an unforgettable cast of characters who contribute to the storyline; Follow Gus, Teacher, Manny and Carl as they drive their Panzer into Russia spearheading Hitler's Operation Citadel. A great story told from the personal perspective of the men who faced off against the Russians looking out and fighting for each other and having to look behind their tank(SS Totenkopf)as well as in the front for enemies.
February 5, 2017
Algo siempre por aprender
Sadler se toma el trabajo de documentar una novela simple de aventuras con el fervor de un artesano y añade en este libro los matices de la campaña en Rusia que difícilmente se encontraría en una novela de su clase. La crudeza de la guerra desatada por un Casca menos cínico y con compañeros de batalla que se hacen sólidos y hasta entrañables. Al final, siempre enfrentas tu conciencia, aún si estás condenado a vivir una eternidad en guerra.
Sadler se toma el trabajo de documentar una novela simple de aventuras con el fervor de un artesano y añade en este libro los matices de la campaña en Rusia que difícilmente se encontraría en una novela de su clase. La crudeza de la guerra desatada por un Casca menos cínico y con compañeros de batalla que se hacen sólidos y hasta entrañables. Al final, siempre enfrentas tu conciencia, aún si estás condenado a vivir una eternidad en guerra.
December 28, 2012
One of the best in the series. It has more action than in most epics, and the events near the end are unexpected surprises. Casca is not a Nazi, and has several confrontations with SS men.
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