A knowledgeable and comprehensive account of the almost accidental conquest of Morocco by the French in the early 20th Century, this work can drag a little despite occasional flashes of humour. Overall though its an interesting story, the conquest seemingly taking place thanks to the coincidence of different factors: the tensions and rivalry over spheres of influence between the "Great Powers" in the lead up to the First World War, the ruthless jockeying for position amongst the various - fragmented - Moroccan tribes and leaders and the actions of a small group of French soldiers who gradually conquer the country in apparent defiance of the French government but in order to meet their objective of protecting French influence. It is a brutal story as well; thousands died, many of them brutally. If you've an interest in Morocco, it is worth a read. ( )