During the Second World War, almost one hundred Canadians served the Allied forces by passing as locals in occupied countries. At the behest of two British secret services, these men made language and custom their costumes. They risked their lives assisting resistance groups in sabotage and ambush missions or in smuggling Allied airmen out of occupied territories. Quiet heroes of the war, these bold Canadians helped to make the brutal and unrelenting warfare of the underground a potent weapon in the Allied arsenal. This is a study of unstinting personal courage in the face of overwhelming odds.

Roy MacLaren was high commissioner for Canada in the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland from 1996 to 2000. He spent twelve years in the Canadian Foreign Service and served as parliamentary secretary for Energy, Mines, and Resources, minister of State (finance), minister of National Revenue, and minister of International Trade. His six previous books include Commissions High: Canada in London, 1870-1971.

Roy MacLaren's profile page

A rattling adventure yarn.

Vancouver Sun

An intensely interesting account of an unusual and little-known aspect of Canada’s fighting men overseas.

Canadian Historical Review

This softbound tome provides an insight on an often overlooked areas of World War II history. It has intrigue, danger, suspense, and a bit of humor. Anyone wishing to learn more of the behind the scenes stories of World War II will find it interesting.

Gun Week

Documents yet another stage in Canada’s reluctant coming of age.

The Globe and Mail