The Washington Times
Mr. Trotter tells brilliantly a piece of history that needed telling.
The Virginian-Pilot
Trotter's account is the best one yet of this unique war.
Library Journal
This history is a well-balanced blend of narrative and analysis. Trotter's overt sympathy for the justice of Finland's cause does not blind him to the justified fear of Nazi Germany that led Russia to demand a buffer zone in front of Leningrad. Similarly, Trotter's admiration for the Finnish army's fighting power does not prevent him from presenting its limitations as well as achievements. Finland's soldiers suffered from fatigue and panic. Their officers were not always competent. Even their victories were incomplete; Russians tied down Finnish troops needed elsewhere. Yet Finland's gallant fight proved decisive in maintaining its independence. In 1940 and again in 1944, Russia chose negotiations over conquest. A Frozen Hell successfully updates Allen Chew's The White Death ( LJ 4/1/72) and belongs in all collections on World War II and modern Scandinavia.-- Dennis E. Showalter, Colorado Coll., Colorado Springs