"An elegant, informative account of modern Estonia, a country that has emerged into the light after centuries of foreign dominance under Swedes, Russians, Germans and Russians again. It is a tour de force, and a must-read."--Robert Service, author of A History of Modern Russia "A history of Estonia which, while highly sympathetic, is not afraid to be justly critical. It is indispensable for anyone wanting to understand Estonia's struggle for independence, and why the country is becoming the world's first digitised society."-- Peter Duncan, Senior Lecturer in Russian Politics and Society, UCL School of Slavonic and East European Studies "This timely and gripping narrative guides us through Estonia's rich history: its centuries under foreign control and its dramatic struggles for independence. Neil Taylor wears his erudition lightly, interlacing nuanced history with great insight into leading personalities--and humor. A treat for historians and travelers to Estonia alike."-- Adrian Bridge, The Telegraph "A rare treat.

Elegant and concise, Taylor fills a gap in English-language history by telling the complicated story of the fate of a nation. Thanks to his attention to detail and extensive research, British and Estonian readers alike will enjoy the book's many colorful and little-known anecdotes."-- Ambassador Kaja Tael, Permanent Representative of Estonia to the EU.