Matej Hribar
I am the grandson of Janez Hribar, the main protagonist of In the Vortex of Fate. The goal of the book is to preserve the memory of the suffering, courage, and unwavering will of my grandfather and of all fallen soldiers. A similar story is unfolding today in Ukraine, just as it did during Janez Hribar’s time.
Together with my brother, David Hribar, we researched, collected, and edited personal records and testimonies that became the foundation of this remarkable story. We also reached out to the Ukrainian archive in Kyiv, where the response was, unfortunately, uncooperative.
My passion for history and family heritage has made it possible to share the story of Janez Hribar — a man who survived the horrors of World War II and Russian labor camps — with a wide audience. With my brother, I strive to bring historical truth about the cost of freedom and humanity under war and peace, especially under Russian rule, to all generations.
Through this book, the reader comes to understand what freedom means today — and how precious it is to live in peace and nourishment. In the Vortex of Fate is not merely a personal survival story; it is an enduring reminder of the value of compassion, dialogue, and historical awareness.
Those who know history, know the future.
This book is worth your precious time.
Take the time — you won’t regret it.