The book "The Church Captive: Metropolitan Nicodemus (1929-1978) and his era (in the memoirs of contemporaries)" by Archimandrite Augustine Nikitin is a fascinating and in-depth study of the life of one of the most significant spiritual leaders of the 20th century. In this work, the author not only tells about the biography of Metropolitan Nicodemus, but also immerses the reader in the context of historical and cultural changes that took place in Russia in the post-war years. Metropolitan Nicodemus, known for his wisdom and diplomacy, became a symbol of the Orthodox Church during a difficult period in its history, when it was under pressure from the state and ideological changes. The book is a collection of memoirs of contemporaries who share their impressions of the metropolitan, his spiritual influence and role in the life of the church. These memories, filled with personal stories and observations, create a vivid picture of an era when the church was looking for its way under a totalitarian regime. Readers interested in Russian history, religious issues and culture will find this book a lot of useful and fascinating. It will be interesting both for young people seeking to understand the spiritual roots of their country, and for more mature readers who want to deepen their knowledge about the Orthodox Church and its role in society. The book will also attract the attention of historians, theologians and anyone interested in spiritual quests and the struggle for religious freedom. The topics raised in the book concern not only the history of the church, but also broader questions about freedom, faith, and human dignity. How was Metropolitan Nicodemus able to maintain his spiritual identity under pressure? How did he interact with state structures, remaining true to their beliefs? These and many other questions are raised in the work, creating space for reflection on the meaning of faith and spirituality in the modern world. The style of Archimandrite Augustine Nikitin is distinguished by depth and insight. He masterfully combines historical facts with personal experiences, which allows the reader not only to learn about events, but also to feel the atmosphere of time. His previous works, such as “Orthodoxy and Modernity” and “Spiritual Heritage of Russia”, also demonstrate his ability to deeply analyze and sincerely express thoughts. “The Church Captive” is not just a book about Metropolitan Nicodemus, it is a work that makes you think about the place of faith in a person’s life, about how spiritual values can withstand the challenges of time. This book will be a real discovery for all who are looking for answers to questions about faith, freedom and human dignity. If you are looking for literature that combines historical truth with deep reflections on life and faith, then The Church Captive is exactly what you need. Immerse yourself in a world where spirituality and history are intertwined, and discover the amazing personality of Metropolitan Nicodemus and his era.