Polisenska provides an incredibly engrossing history that effortlessly moves between a fascinating man (Josten) and the context and details of the fascinating times in which he lived. The work is thereby enlightening in regards to not only the particulars of Josten, but also the life led by individuals like him as well as the complex history of World War II and the Cold War. It is one of those rare and much appreciated works of history that is hard to put down while filling in a gap of knowledge the reader isn't even fully aware they are in need of resolving at the outset. It is an immensely pleasurable and satisfying read.

George Hays, Anglo-American University

Polišenská’s book is an excellent biography of an extraordinary personality committed to liberal democracy and the protection of human rights and dignity, set in the context of so-called great history. The work of Josef Josten, a Czechoslovak exile in the United Kingdom during the Cold War, can be seen from different perspectives, including the one promoted by Tomáš G. Masaryk, of ‘small-scale work’ in the service of the nation and democracy.

Ladislav Cabada, Metropolitan University Prague