The Stalin Affair

The Stalin Affair by Giles Milton is an electrifying historical account that plunges readers into the heart of wartime diplomacy. Set against the chilling backdrop of 1941, as Nazi forces besieged the Soviet Union, the fate of Europe hung perilously in the balance. The Axis powers seemed unstoppable until a covert alliance was formed between the beleaguered Soviet forces and their Western allies, led by Britain and America.

British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and US President Franklin D. Roosevelt knew that the survival of the Red Army was crucial. To ensure Stalin's forces remained in the fight, they dispatched an elite team of extraordinary diplomats to the Soviet capital. Among them was Averell Harriman, America's fourth richest man, accompanied by his sharp-witted daughter, Kathy. Representing Britain was the audacious and enigmatic Archie Clark Kerr, whose wit and charm were matched by his diplomatic acumen. Together, these individuals had the audacious task of persuading the Soviet leader, Joseph Stalin, to stay the course against Hitler's onslaught.

As the Allies' emissaries navigated the labyrinthine political landscape of Stalin's Moscow, they were confronted with the dictator's cunning and unpredictability. Their mission grew increasingly complex as they uncovered Stalin's ominous plans for the post-war world, revealing the full extent of his ambitions. Through a series of deft negotiations, daring exploits, and surprising alliances, they worked tirelessly to forge a coalition that would eventually lead to the Axis defeat.

Based on previously unpublished diaries, confidential letters, and secret reports, The Stalin Affair offers a wealth of new material about this extraordinary wartime coalition. Giles Milton's meticulous research and vivid storytelling bring this remarkable period of history to life, depicting a high-stakes game where diplomacy, courage, and subterfuge were the only weapons available.

This riveting narrative has garnered high praise from critics and historians alike. Katja Hoyer of the Daily Telegraph describes it as "delivered with flamboyance, featuring a sparkling cast of chancers." James Holland lauds it as a "page-turning... sizzling high-stakes tale," while Andrew Roberts affirms that "every word is accurate and verified," likening it to the screenplay of a gripping movie. Dan Snow acknowledges Milton as a phenomenon, and Anthony Horowitz calls it "another rollercoaster ride from Giles Milton, endlessly surprising."

The Stalin Affair by Giles Milton is not just a historical recount; it's an exhilarating exploration of one of the most improbable and effective alliances in history. It illuminates the strategic maneuvers, personal sacrifices, and extraordinary achievements of those who stood against Nazi tyranny, making it an indispensable read for history enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.