"A well-researched political history of Spains elites in the years leading to the countrys successful transition from authoritarian Francoism to the birth of democracy. One especially pleasing feature is Palomaress practice of including important translated terminology in the original Spanish. A major contribution of this book is how it closely traces how the seemingly moderate Manuel Fraga launched initial reforms toward liberalization but later found the conservative Alianza. Liberal reforms leading to democracy would be left up to Adolfo Suirez and King Juan Carlos I, whose contributions and relationship are also examined. Recommended..." -- Choice. "The book provides a good overview of the transition and there is an interesting analysis of major events. The author also uses good primary and secondary sources..." -- Political Studies Review.
