The book examines the series of apartment bombings that rocked Moscow in September 1999 and their implications for the nascent rule of Vladimir Putin. John B. Dunlop, a noted scholar of Soviet and post-Soviet affairs, investigates the events that claimed hundreds of lives and reshaped Russia's political landscape. The work scrutinizes the official narrative, exploring alternative theories and the evidence supporting them, particularly in relation to the Chechen conflict and the rise of Putin. Dunlop's analysis delves into the complex geopolitical context and the internal security apparatus of Russia during this pivotal period.

The book is recognized for its detailed and critical examination of a pivotal moment in modern Russian history. Scholars and readers interested in the complexities of post-Soviet Russia and the origins of Vladimir Putin's leadership find Dunlop's rigorous analysis valuable. The work is often cited for its thoroughness in dissecting the official account of the bombings and presenting alternative perspectives grounded in extensive research. It serves as a significant contribution to understanding the security and political landscape of Russia at the turn of the millennium.