[A]journalistic masterpiece...Coll succeeds on all levels...Coll is masterful at plumbing the depths of agencies and sects within both Afghanistan and Pakistan...In this era of fake news, Coll remains above it all, this time delivering an impeccably researched history of diplomacy at the highest levels of government in Washington, Islamabad, and Kabul. - Kirkus Reviews (starred) With his evenhanded approach, gift for limning character, and dazzling reporting skills, he has created an essential work of contemporary history. - Booklist (starred) The most comprehensive work to date on the U.S. war in Afghanistan...Coll's vital work provides a factual and analytical foundation for all future work on the Afghan War and U.S. policy in Central Asia. - Publisher's Weekly (starred) sakriti opis