With the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia launched itself on a fitful transition to Western-style democracy. But a decade later, Yeltsin's handpicked successor resolved to bring an end to the revolution. This book goes behind the scenes of contemporary Russia to reveal the culmination of Project Putin, the secret plot to reconsolidate power in the Kremlin. During their four years as Moscow bureau chiefs for The Washington Post, the authors witnessed the methodical campaign to transform Russia back into an authoritarian state. Their narrative moves from the unlikely rise of Putin through the key moments of his tenure that re-centralized power into his hands. But the authors also portray the Russian people they encountered--both those who have prospered and those barely surviving--and show how the political flux has shaped individual lives.--From publisher description.

"A Lisa Drew book." "A Lisa Drew book." Russian collection.

Introduction: Tatyana's Russia -- fifty-two hours in Beslan -- Project Putin -- Time of the patriots -- The takeover will be televised -- Just an ordinary crime -- Soul mates -- Boomtown -- Fifty-seven hours in Moscow -- Sick man of Europe -- Runaway army -- What sort of allies? -- Dictatorship of the law -- Back in the USSR -- Twilight of the oligarchs -- Agitation -- Putin's Russia -- Scam of the year -- Lenin was right after all -- Epilogue: After Beslan.