This revised edition includes and examination of the recent presidential and parliamentary elections and their effects on Putin's leadership and Russia.

Praise for the previous edition: "Out of her blunt, often acerbic, account come shrewd insights into Putin's transformation from an implausible, contrived successor into a dominator unchallenged by oligarchs, legislators, or regional bosses, let alone a democratic opposition." — Foreign Affairs

"Shevtsova is one of the most astute and independent-minded observers of the Russian political scene." — Times Literary Supplement

"Offers many insights into Kremlin court politics, as well as Mr. Putin and his foes." — The Economist

"This well-informed Russian observer offers a straightforward situation report. Shevtsova's scorecard will interest serious Russia watchers." — Booklist

"An insightful account of how the Russian president is swaying on a pendulum between reform and stability." — Survival

"A timely, expert book." — Washington Post