This was a surprising book in many ways being a diversion from the normal content for books of this genre. It was a thoughtful book giving real insights into the thinking behind the work of covert intelligence agencies. A book that challenged a lot of preconceptions I had and provided a great deal of entertainment along the way. ( )

The author examines the role of political assassinations as a quick and fairly bloodless way to change the course of history for the better. This books if filled with great stories that accompany each rule, showing how assassinations throughout history have changed its course, sometimes for the better, sometimes not. He also explains why if an assassination does not do this, it is simply best not to perform it. This is a very interesting and compelling read in these tough political times. ( )

Interesting, because the author is a real CIA field operator, not some desk jockey rotated into a safe embassy sinecure for a couple of years to punch their career ticket. I do recommend "spy" aficionados read, but know in advance that the book, in my opinion, is a little "schizophrenic", with the stories jammed into a loose "manual for assassins" framework. This seems quite artificial and unnecessary. But, DO read if you are into this genre! Again, this guy is the real deal. ( )