Hamid Karzai, an unknown man with a secondhand motorbike, the assistance of a few powerful tribesmen, and a good buddy in the CIA, willed himself to power as Afghanistan's new hope. The remarkable ascent of Afghanistan's US-backed leader from obscurity to one of the most powerful characters in the worldwide battle on terror is chronicled by acclaimed journalist Bette Dam.

Following the Taliban's overthrow in 2001, Afghanistan was on the verge of collapse. Karzai, equipped with a winning formula, came dangerously close to assisting the US in declaring success in the fight on terror. However, in post-9/11 America, feelings are running hot, and a drive for vengeance destroyed an early opportunity for peace.

As US soldiers go from Afghanistan and a new president takes office, Karzai's legacy will be one of treachery, distrust, and squandered chances.

Bette Dam wrote the book, which was initially published in August 2009 and released by Ipso Facto on September 3rd, 2014.