• Until the Eyes Shut

  • Memories of a Machine Gunner on the Eastern Front, 1943-45
  • By: Andreas Hartinger
  • Narrated by: Tim H. Dixon
  • Length: 5 hrs and 32 mins
  • 4.9 out of 5 stars (426 ratings)

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Until the Eyes Shut  By  cover art

Until the Eyes Shut

By: Andreas Hartinger
Narrated by: Tim H. Dixon
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Publisher's summary

The veteran tells his grandson about his World War II experiences, without pathos but with gripping, brutal honesty.

The rulers’ mistakes are paid for with the blood of the people. This is shown in history both recent and ancient, time and time again. It was no different for an Austrian mountain farmer’s son who was thrown into the carnage of the Eastern Front. He was in the prime of his youth, and the German Reich was already close to losing the war.

In ripe-old age, he remembers those dark hours that have haunted him throughout his life. Manning his machine gun in merciless struggles with a superior enemy or fighting for survival in brutal close combat, reduced to basest instincts. He also remembers the rock-solid comradeship with his mountain troop, the unexpected gestures of humanity, and an insane destructiveness at a time when the world was out of joint.

This ruthless, honest, and touching real-life account of a simple frontline soldier serves as a reminder to stand up for peace at all times, and to despise war. Until the eyes shut...

About the author

Andreas Hartinger had a profound interest in contemporary history from a young age. During his professional assignments in various crises around the world, he has seen with his own eyes how war takes humanity hostage. He and his grandfather Hans Kahr wrote down the elder’s war memories together. It was painstaking work, and it involved innumerable unsettling conversations. What started off as a family project is now available to a broad audience.

©2019 Andreas Hartinger (P)2020 Andreas Hartinger

What listeners say about Until the Eyes Shut

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A personal account of this soldier's war.

it did not surprise me. I knew from other war stories what it would be like. But I had to hear it. it did not disappoint.

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Intriguing and gripping story.

I enjoyed this personal account very much. No BS, just straight forward storytelling how it was and what the landser did. Well worth the monthly Audible credit.

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Engaging

Well written and well read story. This recollection helps me understand the tragedy of WW2–from the opposing side.

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Wonderful

Absolutely wonderful it’s hard to put into words. I would be interested in hearing more about his experiences in Siberia after the war.

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One of the best memoirs I have ever listened to.

Poetic, bitter, and brutally honest. Listening to this provides a unique perspective on a devastating war.

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Loved it

I enjoyed the book. Many a times I stopped to gather my strength. Amazing how these soldiers were able to survive the Soviet onslaught.
Excellent memoir.

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Gripping and Brilliant

Honest and unblemished accounts, makes you feel like being there in the thick of battle and hardship.
Excellently narrated.

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So descriptive that you feel like you’re there!

Beautifully written about such tragic times. I felt fully immersed in this book. Tim Dixon has a fantastic voice which made me gravitate even more to listening to this story. Highly recommend!

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another powerfully personal account

one of my favourite recounts of a monumental struggle told in his uniquely personal style
thank you for sharing this with us, I'm so grateful for the insight

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Fantastic first hand account!

If your even considering this book, do yourself a favor a buy it! You won’t be disappointed!

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