"The Treaty of Brest-Litovsk: A Precarious Peace" tells the story of the controversial treaty that ended Russia's involvement in World War I and marked the first major diplomatic success of the newly formed Soviet Union. The book delves into the negotiations that took place between Germany and the Bolshevik government, exploring the tactics used by both sides to advance their interests and the major sticking points that threatened to derail the talks. It outlines the key provisions of the treaty, including the territorial concessions made by Russia, the financial reparations imposed on the country, and the diplomatic agreements reached between Germany and the Soviet Union.

The book also examines the impact of the treaty on Russia itself, including the political fallout among the various factions of the Bolshevik government and the economic and social consequences of the loss of territory and resources. It explores the broader implications of the treaty for Europe as a whole, including its role in shaping the post-World War I settlement and its influence on subsequent international relations. Finally, it places the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk in historical context, exploring its relationship to other key events and developments of the early 20th century, and draws lessons for contemporary international relations from its legacy. This meticulously researched and engagingly written book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of diplomacy, war, and international relations.