I have quite some respect for Gen Smuts and having read his sons biography on him thought that little else could be written on the subject. That was until I received this book as a gift.

I was wrong!! Many intriguing and little known facts about Smuts actually made me understand why he acted like he did in many instances. I had originally thought his actions were against his own better judgment now I realise how complex and myriad a personality he really was and how this drove him to take some hard and bewildering decisions.

The well written book brings to life what was really a cold calculating yet very human person, who, it can be said more than any other, shaped the destiny of South Africa both from the centre stage and in the wings. The drive energy and brute force behind his personality of this very enigmatic man grabs you and keeps your attention to the final pages. This book is a must for those who study the history and politics of SA.