This is a vivid inspirational reference volume describing how these martyrs lived and why and how they died. The underlying purpose is to motivate readers to a deeper commitment to Christ. Most of the information about recent martyrs has come from personal interviews with eyewitnesses. Other sources include books, magazines, correspondence. The historical context and incidents leading to these martyrdoms is important, and the book is laid out in chronological order. It is the fruit of many years' research. The book makes remarkably inspirational reading.