This work investigates the evolution of the transatlantic relationship between the United States and Western Europe from the post-World War II era to the early 21st century. Geir Lundestad, a prominent historian of international relations, utilizes his extensive research into American foreign policy and European integration to argue that the relationship shifted from a period of American-led hegemony—termed 'empire by invitation'—to a more fragmented state of 'transatlantic drift.' The text provides a framework for understanding how security dependencies and economic interests initially aligned the two regions before diverging in the post-Cold War environment.

Experts recognize this book as a foundational text for understanding the structural shifts in Western diplomacy during the late 20th century. Readers frequently note the academic density of the prose, which is well-suited for students of political science and international history.