I just heard part of an interview with the author on NPR (I think) The author did research for many years. His brother, who was in the army, and died mysteriously in January 1993 when he was army chief, encouraged him very much in this research and paid for most of the books that he read on this subject. In addition, the author also had access to archives and conducted numerous interviews.

I am not sure how well he understands the subject. Right now, he seems to want to limit the responsibility of the ISI for the attack on the Indian Embassy in Kabul - most likely that was merely the tip of the iceberg and it is merely the acknowledged proof that is limited.

Still anything like this should fill in a lot of the pieces of the puzzle, and the history of Pakistan since 1947 really is a riddle wrapped in amystery inside an enigma.

If the author really knew everything he would also know or strongly suspect how exactly his brother died. It probably was murder. Numerous diffeernt stories were told to his family giving all kinds of different motives..This story is recounted in detail in the book.

Still, this *must* contain lots of details even if he didn't get to the full truth. It must, of course, be read with a warning - almost anything here might turn out to be wrong because maybe it is part of some coverup of something that took place years ago, but it may be a better first read than any other thing.

Anyone with a true desire to understand our essential, yet phlegmatic, ally in the Mideast should take the time to read and reflect on this comprehensive history of the complicated relationship between the Pakistan Army and the governments of Pakistan and the US. It is a true insiders view carefully researched and presented. It is not light reading but important in it's insights as we continue to define the US role in this area of the world. I wish it had been available to our leaders in 2002.