is particularly revealing, starting in the 16th century and still continuing,
albeit more discreetly. Readers who are intrigued by one aspect or an-
other can then find further reading through the bibliography.
This volume was written by Robert W. Pringle, whose experience in
this area is substantial and varied. After first studying Russian history,
he went into government service, working for the Department of State
and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) for 25 years. During his ca-
reer, he focused frequently on the Soviet Union, serving as senior ana-
lyst and branch chief in analytical components responsible for Soviet/
Russian security policies. Among his postings abroad was his service
from 1977 to 1979 as consular and human rights officer at the U.S. Em-
bassy in Moscow. After retiring from government service, he taught his-
tory and political science at the Patterson School of Diplomacy and In-
ternational Commerce at the University of Kentucky, where he lectured
on intelligence and counterintelligence, terrorism and counterterrorism,
with an emphasis on the Soviet Union and Russia. He has also written
a number of papers and articles on these topics. At present he is teach-
ing in Williamsburg, Virginia. This book, the result of decades of prac-
tical experience topped off by teaching, is not only informative but also
gripping as the story unfolds.Jon Woronoff
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