McLean's research is excellent, his writing is polished and witty, and his cases are well selected to cover some of the truly fascinating moments of British politics ... From a scholarly perspective, there are some novel and interesting parts to McLean's work.

American Political Science Review

This is a genuinely - possibly even eccentrically - original book ... He [McLean] states his rationale explicitly, consciously attempting to demonstrate the value of combining political science and history. His conceptual approach is intellectually original and in itself makes this a most valuable study ... as a conceptually original study it demands serious attention from both of its intended audiences.

English Historical Review

Intelligent undergraduates will find a stimulating read ... clear and stylish ... engaging and concisely written ... offers a thought-provoking text which should commend it not only to historians but more widely to all those interested in public affairs in this country.

Ian Budge, University of Essex, Government and Opposition