World War Two: Behind Closed Doors by Laurence Rees (Hardcover, 2008)

Award-winning documentary-maker and historian Laurence Rees brings us a gripping new history of World War II. From the dramatic and secret deals that helped make the war possible, to some of the most crucial decisions taken during the conflict, World War II- Behind Closed Doors is full of surprises, even for those who think they know the history. rawing on material only available since the opening of archives in the East, Rees re-examines the key decisions made by Stalin, Churchill and Roosevelt during the war. And as the truth about Stalin s earlier friendly relationship with the Nazis is laid bare, a devastating and surprising picture of the Soviet leader emerges one that is deeply embarrassing for many Russians. he emotional core of the book is the amazing new testimony obtained from nearly a hundred separate witnesses from the period. Former Soviet secret policemen talk frankly for the first time about their repressive work; Allied seamen reveal how they braved the Arctic convoys.