Dar zamānah-yi panj shāh =: Under five shahs

The book provides a unique first-hand account of significant periods in Iranian history, spanning from the late Qajar era through the Pahlavi dynasty until 1964. Readers praised its engaging narrative style, with some finding the prose beautiful and the book as exciting as a novel, despite it being a memoir. It offers valuable insights into the author's experiences as a military officer and diplomat, detailing his involvement in various conflicts, such as suppressing tribal unrest, dealing with foreign occupations, and navigating major political crises. Specifically, it sheds light on the chaotic conditions in Iran before Reza Shah's rise and offers perspectives on his efforts to establish national security and modernize the country, alongside information about the author's extensive travels.

A significant criticism is the author's highly laudatory and uncritical stance towards the Pahlavi dynasty, particularly Reza Shah and Mohammad Reza Shah. Reviewers noted a consistent absence of self-reflection, regret, or admission of mistakes, presenting the author as an "ultimate straight arrow." This elite perspective is seen as limiting, as the book largely omits discussions of poverty, repression, or external political interference, offering a very specific, high-level view of events. Some readers found the writing style to be somewhat dry and report-like, with a minimum of personal information and an excessive number of names and trivial events, which could make parts of the book tedious. Concerns were also raised about apparent contradictions in the author's recounting of events and policies during the Pahlavi era, suggesting that while it offers an "inside story," it is not necessarily a fully balanced or objective historical account.

Overall, the book is considered a valuable historical document, offering a particular and detailed perspective from a prominent military and political figure during a transformative period in Iran. While its highly subjective and pro-monarchy viewpoint is a clear limitation, it nonetheless provides rich, first-hand information for those interested in the intricacies of Iranian military and political history from 1917 to 1963. It would appeal to readers seeking to understand the mindset and experiences of a high-ranking, patriotic, and staunchly pro-Shah Iranian officer, or those looking for a specific, albeit biased, account of the challenges and developments faced by Iran in the early to mid-20th century. However, readers seeking a comprehensive, objective, or critical analysis of the era should be aware of its inherent biases and consider it alongside other historical sources.