"Gaining independence following the Russian Revolution, Finland's relationship with her neighbour was uneasy from the outset and as war tore through Europe the Soviet Union took advantage of the chaos and invaded. Hugely outnumbered by the waves of Red Army troops, underprepared and outgunned, the Finnish resistance was expected to crumble in a matter of weeks. But Stalin's inexperienced generals had grossly underestimated Finland's ability to defend herself --and the logistical challenges that the harsh terrain and climatic conditions created. The Finns successfully halted Soviet assaults on all fronts during the height of winter in 1939. In early 1940 Finnish troops then won a succession of victories, encircling Soviet formations, whilst the bitter winter weather continued to decimate Soviet ranks. But Stalin responded by sending an even larger force through the Karelian Isthmus-- and though it was met by fierce resistance, the tide was slowly turning as the Finns were forced to engage in a bloody and vicious fighting retreat."--Jacket.

The Rise of Finland -- The Road to War -- The Karelian Isthmus, December 1939 -- Ladoga Karelia, December 1939 -- Group Talvela -- North Finland Group -- Lapland Group, 1939-40 -- A Watching World -- The Battle for Ladoga Karelia, 1940 -- The Karelian Isthmus, 1940 -- An Interim Peace.