What a gem! There's so much that Kechichian's meticulous study brings to light in this book. Even for those who know the history of the region and KSA well, will be pleasantly informed. I've always appreciated Kechichian's lens on Saudi. It's absent of the bias that so many foreigners (wittingly or unwittingly) induce in their study of the region and especially of Saudi. A refreshing read!