“Many scholars have tried, but Michael Gunter succeeds in writing a must-read biography of Recep Tayyip Erdogan that not only provides insights into his youth and rise to power, but also explains how he consolidated power and the vendettas he executed. What makes Gunter's work a masterpiece is not just the flowing narrative, but the fact that Gunter has what so many Turkish experts do not: a balanced approach colored by decades of experience not only among Turks, but also with the Kurds, Syrians, and others too often ignored. This adds depth and a dimension that simply put, sets Gunter apart and creates a new standard for both academics and policymakers.”

Michael Rubin, American Enterprise Institute

This is an excellent, comprehensive and well-researched book not only about Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s worldview but also the most recent political history of Turkey. Gunter skillfully unravels the complexities surrounding the controversial July 16th coup, offering one of the most insightful analyses available. Additionally, the author sheds light on Erdogan's transactional relations with Kurdish actors, providing a nuanced understanding of this intricate dynamic. In my opinion, this is the most accessible book about the ideology and politics of Turkey’s authoritarian ruler.

M. Hakan Yavuz, University of Utah

“In this highly informative and accessible account of the political journey of Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, Michael Gunter seamlessly weaves together several critically intertwined issues involving Turkey, Kurds, and beyond. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the shifting dynamics in Turkey.”

Mehmet Gurses, Florida Atlantic University

“This is a timely contribution by a respected academic. It offers a major and significant new insight into perhaps the greatest Turkish leader since Ataturk, so would become an essential book used by students, specialists, and the general reader.”

Ozay Mehmet, Distinguished Research Professor Emeritus, Carleton University, Ottawa

Anyone who wishes to know modern Turkey today needs to understand its current and longest serving leader, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and how he has played the Turkish domestic political game so successfully. Professor Gunter offers us a clear, accessible and very knowledgeable account, from Erdogan's early years with moderate Islamist groups all the way to his present position as Turkey's strongman and increasingly autocratic leader. Dr. Gunter objectively explains key moments in Erodgan's rise and rule, including his conflicts and relations with Kurds, other Islamist groups, Kemalists, the Turkish military and other forces. Experts on Turkey and those new to these topics alike will greatly appreciate this book.

David Romano, Thomas G. Strong Chair in Middle East Politics, Missouri State University