'Displays originality, coherent theoretical framework and meticulous scholarship...[and is] very well-written and highly readable. [It] will become essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of the transition period.' - International Affairs 'Reading Alden's book is indispensable for all those who want to understand this crucial South African period [in history]. Not only because the author studies ... Read morethe complexities of this ' end of reign' in a brilliant fashion but also because he deploys political analysis which advisedly makes use of the theoretical model proposed in the introduction...At a time when it is respectable to simplify in the extreme what has happened in South Africa, let us salute the publication of a subtle and fine book; a book which demonstrates that for a good explanation there is no need to simplify.' - Politique Africaine 'It deserves to become a standard text for students of the period, but it should also appeal to South Africans who seek an explanation for apartheid's long goodbye.' - South African Journal of International Relations 'It combines an incisive analytical treatment alongside a thorough account of recent political history and succeeds at both the specialist and general level in accounting for the ubiquitous influence of the security forces in policy making.' - Third World Quarterly Show Less