The Collaborators by Ian Buruma tells the story of three liars from World War 2. Each had their reasons; each rewrote their own lies; each ultimately believed their own lies. While history cannot forget what they were a party to, Buruma shows how they weren't outliers. Highly recommended.
Penguin Press
Review: Personality and Power
Personality and Power examines the most influential leaders of twentieth century Europe to determine whether it was their personality or the circumstances that surround them that made them 'great.' Kershaw's compelling writing carries a well thought out argument. Highly recommended.