Christendom Destroyed - Europe 1517-1648 (Mark Greengrass, 2014)

Saw a favorable review, and am trying to get a better handle on this period (some overlap with this book, for example).  But while there were endless interesting items in the book - I think the scope was overwhelming, at least for me.  Too many details, too many countries/regions, too many moving parts.

Also not sure of his premise - though I'd trust Greengrass more than me! - but he suggests that there was some sort of unified vision of Christendom prior to 1500 - and that a big change was the breakdown of that world.  I can scarcely believe that to be the case.  And certainly wouldn't think the average European (however defined) at the time viewed him/herself as part of a large, unified structure.  But whatever.

The Columbian exchange was a big deal.  New World silver was a big deal - finances Hapsburgs.  Luther's activities - part of larger trends - became a very big deal. Worldwide economy.  The amazing Dutch.  Religious conflict mixed up with all sorts of other bases of conflict.

All the religious-based scrapping going on in the 16th century . . . then things would seem to settle down . . . but then the so-awful 30 years war (ended 1648), particularly in Germany.  But this book also gave a little more perspective on what Montaigne was dealing with in France in late 16th century.

Counter-reformation; Jesuits.  Ottoman threat.  Protestant groupings become increasingly segmented.  England.

Etc.

Etc.

I'd recommend skipping this and picking up better-focused books on individual topics.