Between 1934 and 1941 Stalin unleashed what came to be known as "The Great Terror" against millions of Soviet citizens. This book is a study of how ordinary Russians experienced life during this period. Sarah Davies' study uses NKVD and Party reports, letters and other evidence to show that, despite propaganda and repression, the people continued to criticize Stalin and the Soviet regime, and complain about particular policies. This book sheds light on a hugely important part of Russia's social, political and cultural history.